bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel hepatitis B virus surface antigen mutations associated with occult genotype B hepatitis B virus infection affect HBsAg detection
Authors: Wang Hao , Wang Min , Huang Jieting , Xu Ru , Liao Qiao , Shan Zhengang , Zheng Yourong , Rong Xia , Tang Xi , Li Tingting , Wang Wenjing , Li Chengyao , Fu Yongshui
Published: April 2020

The causative factors of occult hepatitis B infection are complicated and not yet been fully elucidated. Mutations in hepatitis B virus (HBV) S gene are one of the factors may contributing to occult infection. In this study, 89 blood donors with genotype B occult HBV infection were investigated. Fifty‐seven hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)‐positive/HBV DNA‐positive blood donors served as control group for comparison. Occult HBV‐related mutations with a high incidence (P < .05) in the S gene were identified. To further verify these occult infection‐related mutations, a conservative full‐gene expression vector of HBV B genotype (pHBV1.3B) was constructed. Then, the mutant plasmids on the basis of pHBV1.3B were constructed and transfected into HepG2 cells. Extracellular as well as intracellular HBsAg was analysed by electrochemical luminescence and cellular immunohistochemistry. Ten occult infection‐related mutations (E2G, Q101R, K122R, M133T, D144E, G145R, V168A, S174N, L175S and I226S) were significantly more frequent in the occult infection group (P < .05). Five of the ten mutations (E2G, D144E, G145R, V168A and S174N) strongly decreased extracellular HBsAg level (P < .05) in the transfection system. Notably, the E2G mutation had the most significant impact on the ratio of extracellular HBsAg (3.8% vs pHBV1.3B) and intracellular HBsAg (239.3% vs pHBV1.3B) (P < .05), and the fluorescence density of E2G mutant HBsAg was significantly higher than that of pHBV1.3B (P < .0001). Hence, ten mutations were associated with genotype B occult HBV infection; E2G and V168A were novel mutations which we confirmed significantly affect HBsAg detection. E2G might cause HBsAg secretion impairment that results in intracellular accumulation and a decrease in HBsAg secretion.
Genomic data reveal international lineages of critical priority Escherichia coli harbouring wide resistome in Andean condors (Vultur gryphus Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Fuentes‐Castillo Danny , Esposito Fernanda , Cardoso Brenda , Dalazen Gislaine , Moura Quézia , Fuga Bruna , Fontana Herrison , Cerdeira Louise , Dropa Milena , Rottmann Jürgen , González‐Acuña Daniel , Catão‐Dias José L. , Lincopan Nilton
Published: April 2020

Critical priority pathogens have globally disseminated beyond clinical settings, thereby threatening wildlife. Andean Condors (Vultur gryphus) are essential for ecosystem health and functioning, but their populations are globally near threatened and declining due to anthropogenic activities. During a microbiological and genomic surveillance study of critical priority antibiotic‐resistant pathogens, we identified pandemic lineages of multidrug‐resistant extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase (ESBL)‐producing Escherichia coli colonizing Andean Condors admitted at two wildlife rehabilitation centres in South America. Genomic analysis revealed the presence of genes encoding resistance to hospital and healthcare agents among international E. coli clones belonging to sequence types (STs) ST162, ST602, ST1196 and ST1485. In this regard, the resistome included genes conferring resistance to clinically important cephalosporins (i.e., CTX‐M‐14, CTX‐M‐55 and CTX‐M‐65 ESBL genes), heavy metals (arsenic, mercury, lead, cadmium, copper, silver), pesticides (glyphosate) and domestic/hospital disinfectants, suggesting a link with anthropogenic environmental pollution. On the other hand, the presence of virulence factors, including the astA gene associated with outbreak of childhood diarrhoea and extra‐intestinal disease in animals, was identified, whereas virulent behaviour was confirmed using the Galleria mellonella infection model. E. coli ST162, ST602, ST1196 and ST1485 have been previously identified in humans and food‐producing animals worldwide, indicating that a wide resistome could contribute to rapid adaptation and dissemination of these clones at the human–animal–environment interface. Therefore, these results highlight that Andean Condors have been colonized by critical priority pathogens, becoming potential environmental reservoirs and/or vectors for dissemination of virulent and antimicrobial‐resistant bacteria and/or their genes, in associated ecosystems and wildlife.
Yarrowia lipolytica causes sporadic cases and local outbreaks of infections and colonisation
Authors: Desnos‐Ollivier Marie , Letscher‐Bru Valerie , Neuvéglise Cecile , Dromer Francoise
Published: April 2020

Background

Yarrowia lipolytica belongs to the normal human microbiota but is also found in substrates with high contents in lipids and used in biotechnological processes. It is sometimes reported as human pathogen and especially in catheter‐related candidaemia.

Objectives

Two apparently grouped cases of infections and/or contamination were reported involving 3 and 9 patients, respectively, in two hospitals. The goal of this study was to design a molecular tool to study the genetic diversity of Y lipolytica and confirm or not the common source of contamination during these grouped cases.

Methods

Given that there is no genotyping method, we used genomic markers assessed on environmental isolates to determine intra‐species relationship. We selected five highly polymorphic intergenic regions, totalling more than 3200 bp and sequenced them for clinical (n = 20) and environmental (n = 14) isolates. Antifungal susceptibility was determined by EUCAST broth microdilution method.

Results

Multiple alignment of the five sequences revealed divergence of 0%‐5.8% between isolates as compared to approximately 0.2%‐0.25% after alignment of whole genomes, suggesting their potential usefulness to establish genetic relatedness. The analysis showed the multiple origins of the isolates. It uncovered two grouped case of fungaemia involving 3 and 2 patients, respectively. It also revealed several unrelated sporadic cases despite their temporal relationship and one probable laboratory contamination by a common yet uncovered source, explaining several consecutive positive cultures without infection. All isolates had high minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) for flucytosine, the majority (14/34) was susceptible to fluconazole, and all to the other antifungal agents tested.

Conclusion

This method could help elucidate cases related to the opportunistic pathogen Y lipolytica.
Developing a conceptual model of pediatric inpatient safety accidents: A mixed methods approach
Authors: Oh Won‐Oak , Kim EunJoo , Im YeoJin , Han Jihee , Kim Mirim
Published: April 2020

Given that injuries to children during periods of hospitalization can lead to more serious health conditions in vulnerable children, preventing pediatric inpatient injuries should be a priority for the pediatric health care profession. This study was conducted to develop a conceptual model of factors affecting pediatric inpatient safety, including all injuries, not just fall injuries, in pediatric units. An explorative sequential mixed methods design was used. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 13 nurses working in pediatrics units and 17 parents of hospitalized children, and then 200 nurses in pediatrics units and parents of hospitalized children completed a self‐report questionnaire. Based on the integration of both qualitative and quantitative data using building and weaving narrative integration, the Pediatric Inpatient Safety Accidents (PISA) model was proposed. The PISA model contains two main domains, the immediate and mediating domain and encompasses the six factors explain of the elements affecting the occurrence and prevention of pediatric inpatient safety accidents. The PISA model can serve as a model to understand child accidents in hospitals as well as to plan customized nursing interventions to prevent child accidents.
Stress and mood of adults with moyamoya disease: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yang Yong Sook , Ryu Gi Wook , Yeom Insun , Shim Kyu Won , Choi Mona
Published: April 2020

Moyamoya disease in adults is a chronic, progressive disorder characterized by fine collateral vessel networks in the brain. The disorder can lead to negative mood and stress, which, left unresolved, may increase adverse health outcomes. We conducted a cross‐sectional survey to examine stress and mood of adults with moyamoya disease. Participants were recruited at a university hospital in Seoul, Korea. Data were collected through questionnaires and review of participants' electronic medical records. A total of 109 adults participated. Significant correlations were found between perceived stress, anxiety, and depression. Adults with moyamoya disease experience anxiety, depression, and stress related to the risk of cerebral hemorrhage or ischemia, similar to those with other cerebrovascular disease. If negative mood and stress were uncontrolled, those can cuase adverse health outcomes. Health professionals caring for people with moyamoya disease should carefully observe their stress and mood and develop interventions tailored to stages of disease to help them manage. The study results provide baseline information for understanding the level of, and the factors associated with, stress and mood.
Thai trauma nurses’ knowledge of neuroprotective nursing care of traumatic brain injury patients: A survey study
Authors: Promlek Kesorn , Currey Judy , Damkliang Jintana , Considine Julie
Published: April 2020

Thai trauma nurses play a vital role in neuroprotective nursing care of patients with moderate or severe traumatic brain injury. Nurses' knowledge of the evidence underpinning initial neuroprotective nursing care vital to safe and high‐quality patient care. However, the current state of knowledge of Thai trauma nurses is poorly understood. In this study, we investigated Thai nurses' knowledge of neuroprotective nursing care of patients with moderate or severe traumatic brain injury. Data were collected by a survey, comprising a section on participant characteristics and series of multiple‐choice questions. All registered nurses (n = 22) and nursing assistants (n = 13) from the trauma ward of a regional Thai hospital were invited to participate: the response rate was 100%. Participants had limited knowledge of carbon dioxide monitoring; causes and implications of hypercapnia; mean arterial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure targets; management of sedatives and analgesics; and management of hyperthermia. Improving their knowledge focusing on knowledge deficits through educational training and implementation of evidence‐based practice is essential to improve the safety and quality of care for Thai patients with moderate or severe traumatic brain injury.
Syndromes with gingival fibromatosis: A systematic review
Authors: Costa Cláudio Rodrigues Rezende , Braz Shélida Vasconcelos , de Toledo Isabela Porto , Martelli‐Júnior Hercilio , Mazzeu Juliana Forte , Guerra Eliete Neves Silva , Coletta Ricardo D. , Acevedo Ana Carolina
Published: April 2020

Objective

The aim of systematic review was to describe the phenotypes and molecular profiles of syndromes with gingival fibromatosis (GF).

Methods

A comprehensive search of PubMed, LILACS, Livivo, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted using key terms relevant to the research questions and supplemented by a gray literature search. The Methodological Quality and Synthesis of Case Series and Case Reports in association with the Case Series and Prevalence Studies from the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools were used for the risk of bias. We followed the PRISMA checklist guidelines.

Results

Eighty‐four studies reporting GF as an oral manifestation of a syndrome were identified in this review. Enamel renal syndrome was the most frequently reported syndrome with GF, represented by 54 individuals in 19 studies, followed by Zimmermann–Laband syndrome with 24 individuals in 15 studies and Costello syndrome, which was presented in a case series study with 41 individuals. Among reported cases, other clinical manifestations such as hypertrichosis, ectopic gingival calcification, and cherubism were described.

Conclusions

The results emphasize the need of systematic oro‐dental‐facial phenotyping for future descriptions as well as further molecular analysis in order to better understand the occurrence of syndromic GF.
Confirming pericardial access by using impedance measurements from a micropuncture needle
Authors: John Mathews , Post Allison , Burkland David A. , Greet Brian D. , Chaisson Jordan , Heberton George A. , Saeed Mohammad , Rasekh Abdi , Razavi Mehdi
Published: April 2020

Background

Pericardial access is complicated by two difficulties: confirming when the needle tip is in the pericardial space, and avoiding complications during access, such as inadvertently puncturing other organs. Conventional imaging tools are inadequate for addressing these difficulties, as they lack soft‐tissue markers that could be used as guidance during access. A system that can both confirm access and avoid inadvertent organ injury is needed.

Methods

A 21G micropuncture needle was modified to include two small electrodes at the needle tip. With continuous bioimpedance monitoring from the electrodes, the needle was used to access the pericardium in porcine models (n  =  4). The needle was also visualized in vivo by using an electroanatomical map (n  =  2). Bioimpedance data from different tissues were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Bioimpedance data collected from the subcutaneous space (992.8 ± 13.1 Ω), anterior mediastinum (972.2 ± 14.2 Ω), pericardial space (323.2 ± 17.1 Ω), mid‐myocardium (349.7 ± 87.6 Ω), right ventricular cavity (235.0 ± 9.7 Ω), lung (1142.0 ± 172.0 Ω), liver (575.0 ± 52.6 Ω), and blood (177.5 ± 1.9 Ω) differed significantly by tissue type (P < .01). Phase data in the frequency domain correlated well with the needle being in the pericardial space. A simple threshold analysis effectively separated lung (threshold  =  1120.0 Ω) and blood (threshold  =  305.9 Ω) tissues from the other tissue types.

Conclusions

Continuous bioimpedance monitoring from a modified micropuncture needle during pericardial access can be used to clearly differentiate tissues. Combined with traditional imaging modalities, this system allows for confirming access to the pericardial space while avoiding inadvertent puncture of other organs, creating a safer and more efficient needle‐access procedure.
Medical simulation utilization among pediatric anesthesiology fellowship programs
Authors: Ambardekar Aditee P. , Newell Alana , Blasius Kimberly , Waldrop William B. , Young David A.
Published: April 2020

Background

Simulation‐based education is a mainstay in education of pediatric anesthesiology trainees. Despite the known benefits, there is variability in its use and availability among various pediatric anesthesiology fellowship programs.

Aim

The primary aim was to understand the current state of simulation‐based education among pediatric anesthesiology fellowship programs and define barriers that impede the development of an effective simulation program.

Methods

This survey‐based, observational study of simulation activities within United States‐based pediatric anesthesiology fellowship programs was approved by the Institutional Review Boards (IRB) of the authors' institutions. A 35‐question survey was developed in an iterative manner by simulation educators (AA, WW, DY) and a statistician familiar with survey‐based research (AN) using research electronic data capture (REDCap) for tool development and data collation. Descriptive and thematic analyses were performed on the quantitative and qualitative responses in the survey, respectively, and were stratified with small, medium, and large fellowship programs.

Results

Forty‐five of 60 (75%) fellowship programs responded to the survey. The presence of a dedicated simulation program director and number of simulation instructors was positively associated with the size of program and years in operation. Dedicated simulation support was variable across programs and was usually present within the larger programs. A positive association also existed for educational activities among all programs mostly based on size of program and years in operation. Protected time was the most commonly cited barrier to having a comprehensive and sustainable simulation program. There was general agreement for establishing a standardized and shared curriculum among fellowship programs. Approximately 70% of simulation programs had no formal simulation instructor training requirement.

Conclusions

Simulation‐based curricula are broadly offered by many fellowship programs. Improved collaboration locally, regionally, and nationally may improve educational opportunities for fellowship programs, particularly the small ones. These efforts may begin with the development of a standardized curriculum and formal instructor training programs.
Stem emissions of monoterpenes, acetaldehyde and methanol from Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) affected by tree–water relations and cambial growth
Authors: Rissanen Kaisa , Vanhatalo Anni , Salmon Yann , Bäck Jaana , Hölttä Teemu
Published: April 2020

Tree stems are an overlooked source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Their contribution to ecosystem processes and total VOC fluxes is not well studied, and assessing it requires better understanding of stem emission dynamics and their driving processes. To gain more mechanistic insight into stem emission patterns, we measured monoterpene, methanol and acetaldehyde emissions from the stems of mature Scots pines (Pinus sylvestris L.) in a boreal forest over three summers. We analysed the effects of temperature, soil water content, tree water status, transpiration and growth on the VOC emissions and used generalized linear models to test their relative importance in explaining the emissions. We show that Scots pine stems are considerable sources of monoterpenes, methanol and acetaldehyde, and their emissions are strongly regulated by temperature. However, even small changes in water availability affected the emission potentials: increased soil water content increased the monoterpene emissions within a day, whereas acetaldehyde and methanol emissions responded within 2–4 days. This lag corresponded to their transport time in the xylem sap from the roots to the stem. Moreover, the emissions of monoterpenes, methanol and acetaldehyde were influenced by the cambial growth rate of the stem with 6–10‐day lags.
High temperature inhibits the accumulation of storage materials by inducing alternative splicing of OsbZIP58 during filling stage in rice
Authors: Xu Heng , Li Xiaofang , Zhang Hua , Wang Liangchao , Zhu Zhengge , Gao Jiping , Li Chunshou , Zhu Ying
Published: April 2020

High temperature (HT) has an adverse effect on rice grain filling by inhibiting the accumulation of storage materials. However, the regulatory mechanism of this inhibition remains unknown. Here, we report that Opaque2 like transcription factor OsbZIP58 is a key factor regulating storage material accumulation under HT. The OsbZIP58 gene promotes expression of many seed storage protein genes and starch synthesis genes while inhibits expression of some starch hydrolyzing α‐amylase genes under HT. The loss of OsbZIP58 function leads to floury and shrunken endosperms and dramatically reduced storage materials in the seeds under HT. HT is found to affect alternative splicing of OsbZIP58, promoting the formation of the truncated OsbZIP58β protein form over the full‐length OsbZIP58α protein form. The OsbZIP58β form has a lower transcriptional activity than the OsbZIP58α form, especially under HT condition. Interestingly, rice varieties with less heat sensitivity have reduced alternative splicing of OsbZIP58. Therefore, OsbZIP58 is a crucial gene in regulating storage material accumulation under HT and lower alternative splicing of OsbZIP58 may contribute to heat tolerance during grain filling.
Association between children's sleep patterns and problematic behaviors at age 5
Authors: Suda Masao , Nagamitsu Shinichiro , Obara Hitoshi , Shimomura Go , Ishii Ryuta , Yuge Kotaro , Shimomura Kunihisa , Kurokawa Michiko , Matsuishi Toyojiro , Yamagata Zentaro , Kakuma Tatsuyuki , Yamashita Yushiro
Published: April 2020

Background

Night‐shift lifestyles affect children as well as adults, and are associated with sleep and behavioral problems among children. This study aimed to investigate associations among sleep patterns, individual/environmental factors, and problematic behaviors in children at age 5 years.

Methods

Data for sleep patterns, individual / environmental factors, and problematic behaviors for 8,689 5‐year‐old children were collected from health‐checkup records. Problematic behaviors investigated were anxious behavior (being afraid, difficulty being separated from the mother), developmental behavior (violence, restlessness, rebellious behavior, restrictive diet, stereotypic play), personal habits (thumb‐sucking, nail‐biting, tic, masturbation), and excretory problems. The relationships between sleep patterns (bedtime, sleep duration) and the presence of these behaviors were analyzed. Individual / environmental factors that affected problematic behaviors were statistically identified using a tree‐form model.

Results

Late bedtime and short sleep duration showed significant adverse effects on children's problematic behaviors – odds ratio (OR): 1.07, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03–1.11 and OR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.87–0.97, respectively. Long television watching time, abnormality at birth, and lack of father's support also showed significant adverse effects on problematic behaviors (OR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.87–2.94), and significantly affected late bedtime and short sleep duration.

Conclusions

There were significant associations among sleep patterns, individual / environmental factors, and problematic behaviors in 5‐year‐old children. Improving children's sleep patterns, reducing the duration of television watching, and improving support from fathers may reduce problematic behaviors.
Health utility and quality of life in pediatric liver transplant recipients
Authors: Bharij Aashiv , Neighbors Katie , Alonso Estella M. , Mohammad Saeed
Published: April 2020

To measure HU and HRQOL in pediatric liver transplant (LT) recipients, a cross‐sectional study of patient‐parent dyads was conducted. Direct HU were assessed in 48 adolescents ≥12 years using SG and TTO techniques. Indirect HU were measured by Health Utility Index 2 and HUI3 for subjects ≥12 years and CHU9D for ≥7 years. Patients reported HRQOL using PedsQL™ GC and PedsQL™ TM. A total of 108 dyads participated (55.6% female; 73.2% Caucasian; 42.6% biliary atresia; 35.2% living donor; 37.0% Medicaid). Mean age at survey was 13.6 ± 3.5 years, and time from LT was 8.9 ± 4.9 years. 61.2% were on monotherapy, 25 (23.2%) had acute rejection within 3 years, and 15 (13.9%) had a biliary obstruction within 5 years. Mean indirect HU and HRQOL scores by child report were lower than norms (P < .001). LRD recipients had higher PedsQL™ GC, PedsQL™ TM, and HUI3 scores (P < .01). HU in pediatric LT recipients are lower than norms. Availability of HU scores for post‐transplant health states will enable measurement of quality‐adjusted life years for future comparative effectiveness studies.
Concentration‐dependent physiological and transcriptional adaptations of wheat seedlings to ammonium
Authors: Ijato Toyosi , Porras‐Murillo Romano , Ganz Pascal , Ludewig Uwe , Neuhäuser Benjamin
Published: April 2020

Conventional wheat production utilizes fertilizers of various nitrogen forms. Sole ammonium nutrition has been shown to improve grain quality, despite the potential toxic effects of ammonium at elevated concentrations. We therefore investigated the responses of young seedlings of winter wheat to different nitrogen sources (NH4NO3 = NN, NH4Cl = NNH4+ and KNO3 = NNO3−). Growth with ammonium‐nitrate was superior. However, an elevated concentration of sole ammonium caused severe toxicity symptoms and significant decreases in biomass accumulation. We addressed the molecular background of the ammonium uptake by gathering an overview of the ammonium transporter (AMT) of wheat (Triticum aestivum) and characterized the putative high‐affinity TaAMT1 transporters. TaAMT1;1 and TaAMT1;2 were both active in yeast and Xenopus laevis oocytes and showed saturating high‐affinity ammonium transport characteristics. Interestingly, nitrogen starvation, as well as ammonium resupply to starved seedlings triggered an increase in the expression of the TaAMT1s. The presence of nitrate seamlessly repressed their expression. We conclude that wheat showed the ability to respond robustly to sole ammonium supply by adopting distinct physiological and transcriptional responses.
Progesterone modulates adhesion molecules in uterine epithelial cells and in vitro embryo production in buffalo
Authors: Pandey Sriti , Ahmad Bhat Irfan , Kumar Bharti Mukesh , Shabir Uffaq , Ahmad Peer Bilal , Baiju Indu , Sonwane Arvind , Chandra Vikash , Sai Kumar Gutulla , Taru Sharma Gutulla
Published: April 2020

This study was undertaken to evaluate the role of progesterone (P4) in modulation of the expression profile of adhesion‐related molecules in uterine epithelial cells (UECs) and in vitro blastocyst production in buffalo. UECs were isolated from slaughterhouse‐derived uteri by enzymatic treatment, and cells were characterized by immunocytochemistry (ICC) and PCR assays. The well‐characterized UECs were exposed to different concentrations of P4 (0, 0.314, 3.14 and 6.28 ng/ml) along with the basal level of oestradiol for 6 days. Thereafter, the relative mRNA expression of different biomolecules such as mucin 1 (MUC1), osteopontin, integrin alpha (α3, α6 and αV) and beta (β1 and β3) subunits, progesterone receptor (PR) and oestrogen receptor, was evaluated. Further, day 2 post‐insemination embryos were cultured in mSOF supplemented with or without P4. UECs were found positive for cytokeratin expression and negative for vimentin expression. Progesterone treatment significantly enhanced the mRNA expression of most of the transcripts compared with the control group, and correspondingly, the immunofluorescence depicted higher protein expression of all these molecules. Further, the long‐term exposure of UECs to P4 downregulated the expression of PR and, concomitantly, MUC1. Progesterone supplementation to embryo culture medium significantly (p < .05) improved the blastocyst rate. The study demonstrates the role of P4 hormone in modulation of the expression of early implantation‐related biomolecules in uterine epithelial cells; hence, adequate level of steroids is crucial for normal embryo development and its implantation.
Successful transcervical uterine flushing can be performed without or reduced dose of oestradiol benzoate in cervical relaxation protocol in Dorper ewes
Authors: Dias Jenniffer Hauschildt , Pupin Maria Amélia , Duarte Gabriela Saloni , Brair Viviane Lopes , de Paula Cleber Jonas Carvalho , de Sousa Marco Antonio Paula , Batista Ribrio Ivan Tavares Pereira , Souza‐Fabjan Joanna Maria Gonçalves , Oliveira Maria Emília Franco , Fonseca Jeferson Ferreira
Published: April 2020

This study assessed the efficiency of cervical relaxation protocol using none, half or full dose (1.0 mg) of oestradiol benzoate in Dorper ewes subjected to non‐surgical embryo recovery (NSER). Thirty‐six pluriparous ewes received progestogen sponge (60 mg) for 9 days plus eCG administration (300 IU i.m.) 24 hr before sponge removal. Ewes were not mated and were randomly assigned to receive at 16 hr before NSER 37.5 µg d‐cloprostenol i.m. and different doses of oestradiol benzoate: 0.0 mg (0EB group; n = 12); 0.5 mg (0.5EB group; n = 12) or 1.0 mg of oestradiol (1.0EB group, n = 12). All ewes received oxytocin (50 IU) i.v. 20 min before NSER, which was performed 8 days after sponge removal. Corpora lutea were counted by transrectal ultrasonography 24 hr before NSER. After procedure, the ewes were kept in natural breeding period to check their post‐NSER fertility. NSER was performed in 91.7% (33/36) of the animals with overall fluid recovery efficiency over 97% (p > .05). The cervical transposing with Hegar dilator was longer (p < .05) in 0EB (4.2 ± 0.3 min) compared to 0.5EB (1.7 ± 0.3 min) and 1.0EB group (1.5 ± 0.3 min). The cervical transposing with mandrel/catheter was longer (p < .05) in 0EB (2.4 ± 0.5 min) than 1.0EB group (1.3 ± 0.5 min). Overall duration of uterine flushing was 25.4 min with structure recovery rate of 43.5%, with no difference among groups (p > .05). The post‐NSER fertility was higher (p < .05) in 0.0EB (90%) than 0.5EB group (36.4%). In conclusion, NSER can be successfully performed in Dorper ewes by using a cervical relaxation protocol without oestradiol benzoate.
Predicting restoration outcomes based on organizational and ecological factors
Authors: Galatowitsch Susan , Bohnen Julia
Published: April 2020

For restoration to be an effective strategy to reverse large‐scale habitat loss and land degradation, funding programs need policies that promote selection of and commitment to projects that can reasonably be expected to succeed. Programmatic project selection practices have received minimal formal evaluation, despite their importance. In this study, we considered the extent to which a program needs to consider both ecological and organizational factors during project selection in order to minimize the incidence of project failure. Our assessment of a long‐term program that funds ecological restoration efforts across Minnesota (U.S.A.), based on project records, manager surveys, and field surveys, yielded several broadly relevant insights. First, factors well understood to confer ecological resilience (level of landscape alteration and starting condition) were clearly associated with restoration outcomes, regardless of time‐since‐initiation of restoration. Second, restoration of low‐resilience ecosystems is typically a labor‐ and skill‐intensive enterprise for organizations that undertake them. Our analysis revealed four organizational limitations, in addition to insufficient funds, that hindered capacity to keep projects on‐track: lack of planning and goal‐setting, inadequate staffing, leadership change, and incomplete records. Third, to reduce risk, programs do not necessarily need to avoid challenging projects, but do need to consider whether organizations proposing restorations have adequate internal capacity to competently plan and to sustain actions for a duration sufficient to restore ecological resilience. If a restoration is degraded enough to require human intervention to recover, the outcome of a project is as likely to reflect its organizational reality as much as its ecological circumstances.
Is tissue still the issue in detecting molecular alterations in lung cancer?
Authors: Liam Chong‐Kin , Mallawathantri Sugamya , Fong Kwun M.
Published: April 2020

Molecular biomarker testing of advanced‐stage NSCLC is now considered standard of care and part of the diagnostic algorithm to identify subsets of patients for molecular‐targeted treatment. Tumour tissue biopsy is essential for an accurate initial diagnosis, determination of the histological subtype and for molecular testing. With the increasing use of small biopsies and cytological specimens for diagnosis and the need to identify an increasing number of predictive biomarkers, proper management of the limited amount of sampling materials available is important. Many patients with advanced NSCLC do not have enough tissue for molecular testing and/or do not have a biopsy‐amenable lesion and/or do not want to go through a repeat biopsy given the potential risks. Molecular testing can be difficult or impossible if the sparse material from very small biopsy specimens has already been exhausted for routine diagnostic purposes. A limited diagnostic workup is recommended to preserve sufficient tissue for biomarker testing. In addition, tumour biopsies are limited by tumour heterogeneity, particularly in the setting of disease resistance, and thus may yield false‐negative results. Hence, there have been considerable efforts to determine if liquid biopsy in which molecular alterations can be non‐invasively identified in plasma cell‐free ctDNA, a potential surrogate for the entire tumour genome, can overcome the issues with tissue biopsies and replace the need for the latter.
Serum mannose–binding lectin (MBL) concentrations are reduced in non‐pregnant women with previous adverse pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Koucký Michal , Malíčková Karin , Kopřivová Helena , Cindrová‐Davies Tereza , Čapek Václav , Pařízek Antonín
Published: April 2020

Mannose‐binding lectin (MBL) is an important component of the innate immunity, and it is responsible not only for opsonization of micro‐organisms, but also for efferocytosis. The aim of this study was to investigate whether MBL concentrations and lectin complement pathway activity are altered in non‐pregnant women with previous adverse pregnancy outcomes. Patients were divided into four groups on the basis of their history of pregnancy complications, including control patients who had uncomplicated pregnancies and term deliveries (control, n = 33), and three groups of patients with a history of pregnancy complications, including preterm labour (n = 29), recurrent miscarriage (n = 19) or unexplained intrauterine foetal death (IUFD; n = 17). All women enrolled in the study had an interval of three to six months following their previous pregnancy, and they agreed to have a blood sample taken. We found significantly higher MBL concentrations and functional activity of the lectin complement pathway in healthy controls who had previous uneventful term pregnancies (1341 ng/mL; activity 100% (IQR: 62%‐100%)), compared to women with the history of IUFD (684 ng/mL, P = .008; activity 8.5% (IQR: 0%‐97.8%), P = .011), recurrent miscarriage (524 ng/mL, P = .022; activity 44% (IQR: 4%‐83%), P = .011) or preterm labour (799 ng/mL, P = .022; activity 62.5% (IQR: 0%‐83%), P = .003). Our results suggest that inadequate function of the complement lectin pathway is associated with a higher risk of preterm labour, recurrent miscarriage and unexplained intrauterine foetal death.
The UEFA Heading Study: Heading incidence in children’s and youth’ football (soccer) in eight European countries
Authors: Beaudouin Florian , Gioftsidou Asimenia , Larsen Malte Nejst , Lemmink Koen , Drust Barry , Modena Roberto , Espinola Javier Ramos , Meiu Mihai , Vouillamoz Marc , Meyer Tim
Published: April 2020

To assess the real‐life magnitude of the heading incidence in children's and youth’ football in eight European countries with different “football cultures,” a cross‐sectional observational design, in which one match per team in 480 different teams from eight European countries (2017/18‐2018/19), was recorded by video. One training session was recorded in 312 teams. Clubs with Under‐10, Under‐12 (female/male/mixed), and Under‐16 female and male teams were eligible to participate. Heading frequencies and types were analyzed. Results are presented as headers per match/training and per team. Incidence rates (IR) per 1000 match/training hours were calculated. Under‐10 teams carried out the lowest average number of headers per match (8.8), followed by Under‐16 female (17.7), Under‐12 (18.4), and Under‐16 male (35.5). Total number of headers per match and team varied between countries. 80% of the total number of headers were single intentional headers, 12% heading duels, 3% unintentional headers by getting hit, and 5% others (trends apparent in all age groups). Three head injuries occurred during match play corresponding to an IR of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.23‐2.16). The lowest number of headers per training and team was found in Under‐10 (21.3), followed by Under‐16 females (34.1), Under‐12 (35.8), and Under‐16 males (45.0). In conclusion, this large‐scale study presents novel data about the number and type of headers in youth’ football throughout Europe. A more precise understanding of the heading incidence, specifically in young players, is mandatory for the debate of restrictions on heading in youth football.
Association of sedentary and physical activity time with maximal fat oxidation during exercise in sedentary adults
Authors: Amaro‐Gahete Francisco J. , Acosta Francisco M. , Migueles Jairo H. , Ponce González Jesús G. , Ruiz Jonatan R.
Published: April 2020

The present work examines the relationships of objectively measured sedentary time and physical activity (PA) with maximal fat oxidation during exercise (MFO) and the intensity of exercise that elicits MFO (Fatmax), in young and middle‐aged men and women. A total of 121 young sedentary adults (81 women, age 22.1 ± 2.1 years, body mass index 25.2 ± 4.9 kg/m2) and 70 middle‐aged sedentary adults (36 women, age 53.4 ± 4.9 years, body mass index 26.8 ± 3.8 kg/m2) participated in this cross‐sectional study. PA was objectively assessed using a wrist‐worn accelerometer for 7 consecutive days. Wrist accelerations were classified into sedentary time and PA of different intensity (light, moderate, vigorous, moderate‐vigorous), taking into account age‐specific cut‐offs. MFO and Fatmax were determined for all subjects by indirect calorimetry, using a walking graded exercise test. No association was found between any of the sedentary time‐related variables and MFO (all P ≥ .05). However, several sedentary time‐related variables were related to FATmax in young men and women (all P ≤ .04). A positive relationship was also detected between PA and MFO in young and middle‐aged women (P ≤ .05), although this became non‐significant after adjustment for cardiorespiratory fitness (P > .05). The present results suggest that, depending on the characteristics of the study cohort, sedentary time, and PA time may be related to MFO and FATmax during exercise. Future longitudinal and intervention studies are warranted to better understand the role of sedentary time and PA in metabolic flexibility during exercise.
Characterization of 17 full‐length MHC‐DQB1 alleles in Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana)
Authors: Min Shaokun , Zhang Xinshang , Li Xiao , Dou Kefeng , Chen Hui
Published: April 2020

Seventeen full‐length Math‐DQB1 alleles were characterized in Tibetan macaques.
Class struggle and the spatial politics of violence: The picket line in 1970s Britain
Authors: Kelliher Diarmaid
Published: April 2020

The late 1960s to the mid‐1980s in Britain was a period of intense industrial struggle, with strike levels at their highest since the 1920s. Concerns surrounding trade union power became central to broader anxieties about British “decline” and “crisis.” These issues took a spatial form in conflicts around the nature of the picket line. This paper discusses the picket line in 1970s Britain in the context of recent debates on the geographies of violence, particularly in relation to questions of class and property, and the mutually constitutive temporalities of structural and direct violence. Rather than focusing on the diffuse processes of an abstract capitalism, I argue for greater attention to be paid to class conflict in shaping experiences and epistemologies of violence. This paper therefore places more emphasis on agency in the production of violence than has been prevalent in recent debates in geography. Drawing on extensive archival research, the paper focuses on three key disputes in this period. Building on work in labour geography, it explores how the assertive working‐class presence of mass pickets were portrayed as violent through an account of the miners' strike in 1972. It then considers a similar process in relation to flying pickets during the 1972 builders' dispute, emphasising the threat of a politicised working‐class mobility. Finally, the paper considers the coercive state response in the violent policing of the picket line during the 1976–8 Grunwick dispute. The radical right‐wing project of neoliberalism emerged in part as a solution to the perceived threat of the labour movement; critical to its success and consolidation was challenging the “enemy within” of militant trade unionism. These violent class struggles around picketing in the 1970s, I argue, are crucial for understanding the long‐term, structural violence of neoliberalism.
Multilocus phylogeny and systematics of Iberian endemic Squalius (Actinopterygii, Leuciscidae)
Authors: Perea Silvia , Sousa‐Santos Carla , Robalo Joana , Doadrio Ignacio
Published: April 2020

Inferring the evolutionary history of a group of species can be challenging given the many factors involved. In recent years, the increased availability of sequences of multiple genes per species has spurred the development of new methodologies to analyse multilocus data sets. Two approaches that analyse such data are concatenated supermatrix and coalescent‐based species‐tree analyses. In this study, we used both of these methods to infer the phylogenetic relationships of Iberian species of the genus Squalius from one mitochondrial and six nuclear genes. We found mitonuclear discordance in the phylogenetic relationships of the group. According to the mitochondrial gene analysis, all species were recovered as monophyletic except S. pyrenaicus; besides, in the concatenated supermatrix analysis of the nuclear markers, this species resolved as polyphyletic with three divergent evolutionary lineages. The coalescent‐based nuclear species‐tree analysis rendered a well‐resolved phylogeny compared with the supermatrix analysis, which was unable to discern between S. carolitertii, S. castellanus and one of the evolutionary lineages of S. pyrenaicus. This result is likely due to the better integration of population uncertainty in the coalescent approach. Furthermore, Bayesian multilocus species delimitation analyses based on a BPP approach strongly supported the distinct nuclear lineages as different species. Nevertheless, the supermatrix analysis was able to obtain well‐supported relationships in the divergent lineages with low numbers of individuals. Our study highlights the usefulness of different analytical methodologies to obtain a more complete picture of the evolutionary history of taxa, especially when discordant patterns among genes are found.
Online System for Automatic Tropical Wood Recognition
Authors: Rosli Nenny Ruthfalydia , Khairuddin Uswah , Yusof Rubiyah , Abdul Ghapar Hafizza , Mohd Khairuddin Anis Salwa , Ahmad Nor Azlin
Published: April 2020

There are more than 3000 wood species in tropical rainforests, each with their own unique wood anatomy that can be observed using naked eyes aided with a hand glass magnifier for species identification process. However, the number of certified personnel that have this acquired skills are limited due to lenghty training time. To overcome this problem, Center for Artificial Intelligence & Robotics (CAIRO) has developed an automatic wood recognition system known as KenalKayu that can recognize tropical wood species in less than a second, eliminating laborious manual human inspection which is exposed to human error and biasedness. KenalKayu integrates image acquisition, feature extraction, classifier and machine vision hardware such as camera, interfaces, PC and lighting. Grey level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) is used for feature extraction. The features are trained in a back-propagation neural network (BPNN) for classification. This paper focusses more on the database development and the online testing of the wood recognition system. The accuracy of the online system is tested on different image quality such as image taken in low light condition, medium light condition or high light condition.
Automotive Real-Time Data Acquisition Using Wi-Fi Connected Embedded System
Authors: Ab Rahman Ahmad Faiz , Selamat Hazlina , Alimin Ahmad Jais , Muslim Mohd Taufiq , Msduki Muhammad Mazizan , Khamis Nurulaqilla
Published: April 2020

The advancement in embedded systems, which includes the mass deployment of internet-connected electronics, allows the concept of Internet of Things (IoT), to become a reality. This paper discusses one example of how an internet-connected embedded system is utilized in an automotive system. An Electronic Control Unit (ECU), which functions as a control unit in a fuel injection system, are equipped with Wi-Fi capability and installed on 110cc motorcycle. The ECU is connected to multiple sensors that is used by the ECU as part of control system, as well as giving raw data in real time to the server by using Wi-Fi as the communication medium. The server will accumulate data transmitted from ECU by using MQTT protocol, chosen due to its minimal data profile. The data can be visualized through web portal, or opened by any other web-enabled devices. The data collected may also be used later for any other purposes, such as On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system, etc.
Hybrid Extendable Linear Actuators: Design and Applications
Authors: Shoani Mohamed Tahir , Ribuan Mohamed Najib , Faudzi Ahmad Athif
Published: April 2020

There are many types of different actuators in the field of robotics. For applications where a linear displacement is required, a linear extendable actuator would be the method of choice. The hybrid class of extendable actuators possesses unique features making it suitable for many applications where the soft and rigid types fall short. However, there has not been a clear designation and classification of extendable linear hybrid actuators in the literature. This paper addresses this matter and provides the first overview of the hybrid class of extendable actuators. The paper performs a categorization and characterization of this class of extendable linear actuators based on their method of operation as well as the inherent unique features separating them from the rest. The paper contains five sections, and three sub-sections pertaining to the different categories of Hybrid actuators, and their applications. New research in this field continues to add features to this class of actuators through improvements and added capabilities.
Modeling and Optimization of Electric Discharge Machining Performances using Harmony Search Algorithm
Authors: Mat Deris Ashanira , Mohd Zain Azlan , Sallehuddin Roselina , Sharif Safian
Published: April 2020

Electric Discharge Machining (EDM) is one of the widely used non-conventional machining processes for complex and difficult-to-machine materials. EDM technology has been improve significantly and has been developed in many ideas especially in the manufacturing industries that yielded enormous benefits in economic as well as generating keen interest in research area. A major issue in EDM process is how to obtain accurate results of the machining performance measurement value at optimal point of cutting conditions. Thus, this study proposed harmony search algorithm approach for optimization of surface roughness (Ra) in die sinking electric discharge machining (EDM). The mathematical model was developed using regression analysis based on four machining parameters which are pulse on time, peak current, servo voltage and servo speed. The result shows that the optimal solutions for Ra can be found with the minimum values of 1.3031 µm.