bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TReSpire – a biophysical TRee Stem respiration model
Authors: Salomón Roberto L. , De Roo Linus , Oleksyn Jacek , De Pauw Dirk J. W. , Steppe Kathy
Published: September 2019

Mechanistic models of plant respiration remain poorly developed, especially in stems and woody tissues where measurements of CO2 efflux do not necessarily reflect local respiratory activity.

We built a process‐based model of stem respiration that couples water and carbon fluxes at the organ level (TReSpire). To this end, sap flow, stem diameter variations, xylem and soil water potential, stem temperature, stem CO2 efflux and nonstructural carbohydrates were measured in a maple tree, while xylem CO2 concentration and additional stem and xylem diameter variations were monitored in an ancillary tree for model validation.

TReSpire realistically described: (1) turgor pressure to differentiate growing from nongrowing metabolism; (2) maintenance expenditures in xylem and outer tissues based on Arrhenius kinetics and nitrogen content; and (3) radial CO2 diffusivity and CO2 solubility and transport in the sap solution. Collinearity issues with phloem unloading rates and sugar–starch interconversion rates suggest parallel submodelling to close the stem carbon balance.

TReSpire brings a breakthrough in the modelling of stem water and carbon fluxes at a detailed (hourly) temporal resolution. TReSpire is calibrated from a sink‐driven perspective, and has potential to advance our understanding on stem growth dynamics, CO2 fluxes and underlying respiratory physiology across different species and phenological stages.
Why do entomologists and plant pathologists approach trophic relationships so differently? Identifying biological distinctions to foster synthesis
Authors: Raffa Kenneth F. , Bonello Pierluigi , Orrock John L.
Published: September 2019

Plant interactions with herbivores and pathogens are among the most widespread ecological relationships, and show many congruent properties. Despite these similarities, general models describing how plant defenses function in ecosystems, and the prioritization of responses to emerging challenges such as climate change, invasive species and habitat alteration, often differ markedly between entomologists and plant pathologists. We posit that some fundamental distinctions between how insects and pathogens interact with plants underlie these differences. We propose a conceptual framework to help incorporate these distinctions into robust models and research priorities. The most salient distinctions include features of host‐searching behavior, evasion of plant defenses, plant tolerance to utilization, and sources of insect and microbial population regulation. Collectively, these features lead to relatively more diffuse and environmentally mediated plant–insect interactions, and more intimate and genetically driven plant–pathogen interactions. Specific features of insect vs pathogen life histories can also yield different patterns of spatiotemporal dynamics. These differences can become increasingly pronounced when scaling from controlled laboratory to open ecological systems. Integrating these differences alongside similarities can foster improved models and research approaches to plant defense, trophic interactions, coevolutionary dynamics, food security and resource management, and provide guidance as traditional departments increase collaborations, or merge into larger units.
Reduced fire blight susceptibility in apple cultivars using a high‐efficiency CRISPR/Cas9‐FLP/FRT‐based gene editing system
Authors: Pompili Valerio , Dalla Costa Lorenza , Piazza Stefano , Pindo Massimo , Malnoy Mickael
Published: September 2019

The bacterium Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of fire blight disease in apple, triggers its infection through the DspA/E effector which interacts with the apple susceptibility protein MdDIPM4. In this work, MdDIPM4 knockout has been produced in two Malus × domestica susceptible cultivars using the CRISPR/Cas9 system delivered via Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Fifty‐seven transgenic lines were screened to identify CRISPR/Cas9‐induced mutations. An editing efficiency of 75% was obtained. Seven edited lines with a loss‐of‐function mutation were inoculated with the pathogen. Highly significant reduction in susceptibility was observed compared to control plants. Sequencing of five potential off‐target sites revealed no mutation event. Moreover, our construct contained a heat‐shock inducible FLP/FRT recombination system designed specifically to remove the T‐DNA harbouring the expression cassettes for CRISPR/Cas9, the marker gene and the FLP itself. Six plant lines with reduced susceptibility to the pathogen were heat‐treated and screened by real‐time PCR to quantify the exogenous DNA elimination. The T‐DNA removal was further validated by sequencing in one plant line. To our knowledge, this work demonstrates for the first time the development and application of a CRISPR/Cas9‐FLP/FRT gene editing system for the production of edited apple plants carrying a minimal trace of exogenous DNA.
Long‐term renal follow up of preterm neonates born before 35 weeks of gestation
Authors: Horie Akiyoshi , Abe Yasuhiro , Koike Daisuke , Hirade Tomohiro , Nariai Akiyoshi , Ito Tomoko , Katou Fumihide
Published: September 2019

Background

The hypothesis of the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease states that environmental factors during fetal and infantile life are risk factors for some chronic diseases in adulthood. Few studies, however, have confirmed this hypothesis early in childhood. Therefore, we assessed how premature birth and low‐birthweight (LBW) affect the renal function of Japanese children.

Methods

This retrospective study surveyed 168 patients who were born before 35 weeks of gestation and were cared for at the present neonatal intensive care unit. Follow‐up duration was >2 years. Serum creatinine (sCr) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) recorded in medical records were reviewed.

Results

The eGFR at 2 years of age was significantly correlated with birthweight and gestational age (P < 0.01). Approximately 10.7% of the children had low eGFR (<90 mL/min/1.73 m2) without clinical symptoms or abnormal urine examination. These children had high sCr on day 7 after birth (P < 0.01) and delayed recovery of these levels during the first month after birth.

Conclusion

Premature gestational age and LBW directly affect renal function in young children. High sCr on day 7 after birth is a risk factor for chronic kidney disease in children. Careful follow up of renal function is therefore required for premature infants and infants with LBW beginning in early childhood to prevent renal dysfunction.
Co‐infection with distinct Trypanosoma cruzi strains induces an activated immune response in human monocytes
Authors: Magalhães Luísa M.D. , Passos Lívia S.A. , Chiari Egler , Galvão Lúcia M.C. , Koh Carolina C. , Rodrigues‐Alves Marina L. , Giunchetti Rodolfo C. , Gollob Kenneth , Dutra Walderez O.
Published: September 2019

Aims

The aim of the study was to evaluate the immune response triggered by the first contact of human monocytes with two T cruzi strains from distinct discrete typing units (DTUs) IV and V, and whether co‐infection with these strains leads to changes in monocyte immune profiles, which could in turn influence the subsequent infection outcome.

Methods and results

We evaluated the influence of in vitro single‐ and co‐infection with AM64 and 3253 strains on immunological characteristics of human monocytes. Single infection of monocytes with AM64 or 3253 induced opposing anti‐inflammatory and inflammatory responses, respectively. Co‐infection was observed in over 50% of monocytes after 15 hours of culture, but this percentage dropped ten‐fold after 72 hours. Co‐infection led to high monocyte activation and an increased percentage of both IL‐10 and TNF. The decreased percentage of co‐infected cells observed after 72 hours was associated with a decreased frequency of TNF‐expressing cells.

Conclusion

Our results show that the exacerbated response observed in co‐infection with immune‐polarizing strains is associated with a decreased frequency of co‐infected cells, suggesting that the activated response favours parasite control. These findings may have implications for designing new Chagas disease preventive strategies.
A molecular signature for CD8+ T cells from visceral leishmaniasis patients
Authors: Singh Bhawana , Bhushan Chauhan Shashi , Kumar Rajiv , Singh Siddharth Sankar , Ng Susanna , Amante Fiona , de Labastida Rivera Fabian , Singh Om Prakash , Rai Madhukar , Nylen Susanne , Sundar Shyam , Engwerda Christian
Published: September 2019

CD8+ T‐cell function is compromised in chronic diseases such as visceral leishmaniasis (VL). However, little is known about the changes in gene expression that cause CD8+ T‐cell dysfunction during VL. We used targeted transcriptional profiling of peripheral blood CD8+ T cells from VL patients pre‐ and post‐anti‐parasitic drug treatment, and compared them with the same cell population from healthy endemic controls to assess their activation, differentiation and functional status during disease. We found a predominance of downregulated immune genes in CD8+ T cells from VL patients. However, genes encoding several notable immune checkpoint molecules, including LAG‐3, TIM‐3 and CTLA‐4, cytolytic molecules, such as granzymes A, B and H and perforin, as well as SOCS3, STAT1, JAK2 and JAK3 cytokine signalling genes were found to be increasingly expressed by VL patient CD8+ T cells. Additional studies confirmed increased expression of the inhibitory receptors LAG3 and TIM3 on VL patient CD8+ T cells, thereby identifying these molecules as potential targets to improve antigen‐specific CD8+ T‐cell responses during disease.
Positive Messages as a Motivator for Seeking Information about Candidates
Authors: Lee Jongho , Boeckelman Keith , Hardy Richard J. , Davis Kyle
Published: September 2019

What, if anything, will motivate people to seek information about candidates during campaigns? Our study tackles this question drawing on data from a survey experiment conducted with a total of 1,421 college student subjects. Study participants were randomly divided into four groups, each of which was asked to read one of four brief statements about the candidacy of either Hillary Clinton or Carly Fiorina written in an either positive or negative tone. Study subjects were then asked if they would like to learn more about the candidate. The study reveals that those who were exposed to positive information about the presidential candidates or already had positive emotions toward either of them were more likely to express their desire to learn more about the candidates. The findings are consistent with the “broaden‐and‐build theory of positive emotions,” which predicts an individual tendency to broaden their “thought‐action repertoires” when experiencing positive stimuli.

Related Articles

Craig, Stephen C., and Paulina S. Rippere. 2014. “Political Trust and Negative Campaigns: Two Tests of the Figure‐Ground Hypothesis.” Politics & Policy 42 (5): 693‐743. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12091

Nielson, Lindsay. 2017. “Ranked Choice Voting and Attitudes toward Democracy in the United States: Results from a Survey Experiment.” Politics & Policy 45 (4): 535‐570. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12212

Stokes‐Brown, Atiya Kai, and Melissa O. Neal. 2008. “Give ‘Em Something to Talk about: The Influence of Female Candidates’ Campaign Issues on Political Proselytizing.” Politics & Policy 36 (1): 32‐59. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2008.00093.x

Related Media

Danielsen, Shelby. 2014. “Political Ads: Negative vs. Positive.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5neWR6ZzTlM

Hughes, Andrew. 2016. “Negative vs. Positive Political Advertising.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUyypda7PNs

Krasa, Sandra. 2014. “Social Media and Political Campaigns – Youth Voting; Positive Messaging.” Interview with David Painter. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxE2OGYhVvo
A loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay based on unique markers derived from genotyping by sequencing data for rapid in planta diagnosis of Panama disease caused by Tropical Race 4 in banana
Authors: Ordóñez N. , Salacinas M. , Mendes O. , Seidl M. F. , Meijer H. J. G. , Schoen C. D. , Kema G. H. J.
Published: September 2019

The socio‐economic impact of Fusarium odoratissimum, which is colloquially called tropical race 4 (TR4), is escalating as this fungal pathogen spreads to new banana‐growing areas. Hence, the development of simple, reliable and rapid detection technologies is indispensable for implementing quarantine measures. Here, a versatile loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay has been developed that is applicable under field and laboratory conditions. DNA markers unique to TR4 isolates were obtained by diversity arrays technology sequencing (DArTseq), a genotyping by sequencing technology that was conducted on 27 genotypes, comprising 24 previously reported vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs) and three TR4 isolates. The developed LAMP TR4 assay was successfully tested using 22 TR4 isolates and 45 non‐target fungal and bacterial isolates, as well as on infected plants under greenhouse and field conditions. The detection limit was 1 pg µL−1 pure TR4 DNA or 102 copies plasmid‐localized TR4 unique sequence (SeqA) per reaction, which was not affected by background DNA in complex samples. The LAMP TR4 assay offers a powerful tool for the routine and unambiguous identification of banana plants infected with TR4, contributing to advanced diagnosis in field situations and monitoring of fusarium wilt.
Depletion of endogenous germ cells in striped catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus (Sauvage, 1878) by heat–chemical treatments
Authors: Majhi Sullip Kumar , Maurya Pradip Kumar , Kumar Santosh , Mohindra Vindhya , Lal Kuldeep Kumar
Published: September 2019

Germ cell (GC) transplantation (GCT) is a proven powerful reproductive technique to enhance the production efficiency of domesticated animals and aid to the recovery of endangered germ lines. In mammals, several methods have been adopted for the eradication of GCs such as treatment with cytotoxic drugs, irradiation, cold ischaemia and hyperthermic treatment. Some of these methods have also been tried in fishes, and conditions for sterilization of gonads have been established. Here, we report the production of GC‐depleted male striped catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus in 12 weeks by the combination of heat and chemical treatments. The cytotoxic drug busulphan (40 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected into the animals at 2‐week intervals (six doses in total) and maintained in water at 38°C between weeks 1 and 12. The effectiveness of the treatment was assessed using gonadal index and histology. At the end of 12 weeks, very severe gonadal degeneration was observed in fish treated with the heat–chemical combination, and 100% of sampled fish (n = 5) were found devoid of endogenous GCs. On contrary, high temperature alone caused minor gonadal degeneration. Results obtained in this study suggest that endogenous GCs of large‐bodied fish such as P. hypophthalmus can also be sterilized by heat and chemical treatments within a considerably short period.
Testing the preservation potential of early diagenetic dolomites as geochemical archives
Authors: Mueller Mathias , Igbokwe Onyedika A. , Walter Benjamin , Pederson Chelsea L. , Riechelmann Sylvia , Richter Detlev K. , Albert Richard , Gerdes Axel , Buhl Dieter , Neuser Rolf D. , Bertotti Giovanni , Immenhauser Adrian
Published: September 2019

Early marine diagenetic dolomite is a rather thermodynamically‐stable carbonate phase and has potential to act as an archive of marine porewater properties. However, the variety of early to late diagenetic dolomite phases that can coexist within a single sample can result in extensive complexity. Here, the archive potential of early marine dolomites exposed to extreme post‐depositional processes is tested using various types of analyses, including: petrography, fluid inclusion data, stable δ13C and δ18O isotopes, 87Sr/86Sr ratios, and U‐Pb age dating of various dolomite phases. In this example, a Triassic carbonate platform was dissected and overprinted (diagenetic temperatures of 50 to 430°C) in a strike‐slip zone in Southern Spain. Eight episodes of dolomitization, a dolostone cataclasite and late stage meteoric/vadose cementation were recognized. The following processes were found to be diagenetically relevant: (i) protolith deposition and fabric‐preservation, and marine dolomitization of precursor aragonite and calcite during the Middle–Late Triassic; (ii) intermediate burial and formation of zebra saddle dolomite and precipitation of various dolomite cements in a Proto‐Atlantic opening stress regime (T ca 250°C) during the Early–Middle Jurassic; (iii) dolomite cement precipitation during early Alpine tectonism, rapid burial to ca 15 km, and high‐grade anchizone overprint during Alpine tectonic evolution in the Early Eocene to Early Miocene; (iv) brecciation of dolostones to cataclasite during the onset of the Carboneras Fault Zone activity during the Middle Miocene; and (v) late‐stage regression and subsequent meteoric overprint. Data shown here document that, under favourable conditions, early diagenetic marine dolomites and their archive data may resist petrographic and geochemical resetting over time intervals of 108 or more years. Evidence for this preservation includes preserved Late Triassic seawater δ13CDIC values and primary fluid inclusion data. Data also indicate that oversimplified statements based on bulk data from other petrographically‐complex dolomite archives must be considered with caution.
Progress in interleukin‐2 therapy for rheumatic immune diseases by regulating the immune balance of T cells
Authors: Shao Qin , Gao Hongyan
Published: September 2019

Breaking the balance between effector T cells, including Th17 (T helper cell 17) cells, and regulatory T cells (Tregs) is a key link in the pathogenesis of rheumatic immune diseases, which lead to a new concept of regulating immune balance in the treatment of rheumatic immune diseases. Interleukin (IL)‐2 can effectively regulate the differentiation, development and functional activity of regulatory T cells, thus restoring the immune balance between regulatory T cells and effector T cells. Therefore, low‐dose IL‐2 has been used in the treatment of rheumatic immune diseases, and it has become a promising new choice to achieve therapeutic purpose by regulating the immune balance of T cell. Here, we discuss the role of T cells immune imbalance in the pathogenesis of rheumatic immune diseases and the mechanism of IL‐2 in the treatment of rheumatic immune diseases by regulating T cells immune balance and summarize the relevant clinical trials.
Calf muscle strain injuries in elite Australian Football players: A descriptive epidemiological evaluation
Authors: Green Brady , Lin Monica , Schache Anthony G. , McClelland Jodie A. , Semciw Adam I. , Rotstein Andrew , Cook Jill , Pizzari Tania
Published: September 2019

Background

Calf muscle strain injuries (CMSI) show consistent rates of prevalence and re‐injury in elite Australian Football players. An epidemiological evaluation is warranted to better understand the clinical presentation and recovery of CMSI.

Purpose

First, to describe the epidemiology of CMSI in elite Australian Football players. Second, to determine if recovery following injury is different according to: (a) injury type (index vs re‐injury); (b) muscle injured (soleus vs gastrocnemius); and (c) mechanism of injury (running‐related activity vs non running‐related activity).

Study design

Descriptive epidemiological.

Methods

Data retrieved from the Soft Tissue injury Registry of the Australian Football League were analyzed. Sixteen clubs submitted data on CMSI from 2014 to 2017. Data included: player characteristics, training and match history at the time of injury, MRI, and the time to reach recovery milestones.

Results

One hundred and eighty‐four CMSI were included (149 index injuries; 35 re‐injuries). Soleus injuries were most prevalent (84.6%). Soleus injuries took 25.4 ± 16.2 days to return to play, whereas gastrocnemius injuries took 19.1 ± 14.1 days (P = .097). CMSI sustained during running‐related activities took approximately 12 days longer to recover than injuries sustained during non running‐related activities (P = .001). Compared to index injuries, re‐injuries involved older players (P = .03) and significantly more time was taken to run at >90% of maximum speed, return to full training, and return to play (P ≤ .001). Almost all of the observed re‐injuries involved soleus (91.4%).

Conclusion

Soleus injuries are more prevalent than gastrocnemius injuries in elite Australian Football players. Prognosis appears to be influenced by clinical factors, with CMSI sustained during running‐related activities and re‐injuries needing more time to recover.
Characteristics and factors of concussion events for tacklers in collegiate rugby union
Authors: Suzuki Keita , Nagai Satoshi , Iwai Koichi , Furukawa Takuo , Mukai Naoki , Miyakawa Shumpei , Takemura Masahiro
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this study was to determine the factors related to the occurrence of concussion in rugby tacklers. Match video records showing tackles leading to concussion were used to identify injury‐inciting events. Additionally, noninjury tackles by concussed tacklers (prior to concussion) and position‐matched tacklers from the same matches were used as a control cohort. All tackles were coded according to the tackling characteristics. The odds ratio (OR) was reported by logistic regression. The results demonstrated that a side step of the ball‐carrier reduced the risk of concussion for tacklers (OR = 0.13 [95% CI, 0.03‐0.58]; P = .008). Conversely, the tackler's head/neck contacting the ball‐carrier (OR = 18.62 [95% CI, 4.59‐75.49]; P < .001) and not remaining bound to the ball‐carrier since making initial contact (OR = 4.38 [95% CI, 1.69‐11.34]; P = .002) were identified as risk factors for the concussion of tacklers. These results suggest that avoidance movements of the ball‐carrier prior to tackling reduced the risk of concussion and that incorrect tackling techniques contributed to an increased occurrence of concussion. Furthermore, the probability of concussion for tacklers increased when their head was in front or to one side of the ball‐carrier, and the direction of the tackle also affected the risk of concussion, especially from the side. Therefore, it is important to emphasize the tackler's head position in conjunction with the direction of tackle.
What children want to know about in‐ and out‐groups, and how knowledge affects their intergroup attitudes
Authors: Nasie Meytal , Diesendruck Gil
Published: September 2019

One of the key factors contributing to the development of negative attitudes toward out‐groups is lack of knowledge about them. The present study investigated what type of information 3‐ to 4‐ and 5‐ to 6‐ year‐old Jewish Israeli children (N = 82) are interested in acquiring about unfamiliar in‐ and out‐group individuals, and how providing children with the requested information affects their intergroup attitudes. Children were shown pictures of individuals from three groups—an in‐group (“Jews”), a “conflict” out‐group (“Arabs”), and a “neutral” out‐group (“Scots”)—and were asked what they would like to know about them. The experimenter responded by either answering all of children's questions, half of the questions, or none. Children's attitudes toward the groups were also assessed. It was found that children asked the most questions in regard to conflict out‐group individuals. Moreover, the older age group asked more questions regarding the psychological characteristics, and fewer questions regarding the social identity, of the conflict out‐group than of the other two groups. Finally, full provision of information improved attitudes toward the groups, especially among 3‐ to 4‐year olds, and especially regarding the conflict out‐group. These findings have implications for understanding the sources of intergroup biases, and for developing interventions to reduce them.
Exploring Variation Between Artificial Grammar Learning Experiments: Outlining a Meta‐Analysis Approach
Authors: Trotter Antony S. , Monaghan Padraic , Beckers Gabriël J. L. , Christiansen Morten H.
Published: September 2019

Artificial grammar learning (AGL) has become an important tool used to understand aspects of human language learning and whether the abilities underlying learning may be unique to humans or found in other species. Successful learning is typically assumed when human or animal participants are able to distinguish stimuli generated by the grammar from those that are not at a level better than chance. However, the question remains as to what subjects actually learn in these experiments. Previous studies of AGL have frequently introduced multiple potential contributors to performance in the training and testing stimuli, but meta‐analysis techniques now enable us to consider these multiple information sources for their contribution to learning—enabling intended and unintended structures to be assessed simultaneously. We present a blueprint for meta‐analysis approaches to appraise the effect of learning in human and other animal studies for a series of artificial grammar learning experiments, focusing on studies that examine auditory and visual modalities. We identify a series of variables that differ across these studies, focusing on both structural and surface properties of the grammar, and characteristics of training and test regimes, and provide a first step in assessing the relative contribution of these design features of artificial grammars as well as species‐specific effects for learning.
Dual‐color oligo‐FISH can reveal chromosomal variations and evolution in Oryza species
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Sun Shang , Wu Ying , Zhou Yong , Gu Siwei , Yu Hengxiu , Yi Chuandeng , Gu Minghong , Jiang Jiming , Liu Bao , Zhang Tao , Gong Zhiyun
Published: September 2019

Fluorescence in situ hybridization using probes based on oligonucleotides (oligo‐FISH) is a useful tool for chromosome identification and karyotype analysis. Here we developed two oligo‐FISH probes that allow the identification of each of the 12 pairs of chromosomes in rice (Oryza sativa). These two probes comprised 25 717 (green) and 25 215 (red) oligos (45 nucleotides), respectively, and generated 26 distinct FISH signals that can be used as a barcode to uniquely label each of the 12 pairs of rice chromosomes. Standard karyotypes of rice were established using this system on both mitotic and meiotic chromosomes. Moreover, dual‐color oligo‐FISH was used to characterize diverse chromosomal abnormalities. Oligo‐FISH analyses using these probes in various wild Oryza species revealed that chromosomes from the AA, BB or CC genomes generated specific and intense signals similar to those in rice, while chromosomes with the EE genome generated less specific signals and the FF genome gave no signal. Together, the oligo‐FISH probes we established will be a powerful tool for studying chromosome variations and evolution in the genus Oryza.
Plant Regulomics: a data‐driven interface for retrieving upstream regulators from plant multi‐omics data
Authors: Ran Xiaojuan , Zhao Fei , Wang Yuejun , Liu Jian , Zhuang Yili , Ye Luhuan , Qi Meifang , Cheng Jingfei , Zhang Yijing
Published: September 2019

High‐throughput technology has become a powerful approach for routine plant research. Interpreting the biological significance of high‐throughput data has largely focused on the functional characterization of a large gene list or genomic loci that involves the following two aspects: the functions of the genes or loci and how they are regulated as a whole, i.e. searching for the upstream regulators. Traditional platforms for functional annotation largely help resolving the first issue. Addressing the second issue is essential for a global understanding of the regulatory mechanism, but is more challenging, and requires additional high‐throughput experimental evidence and a unified statistical framework for data‐mining. The rapid accumulation of ’omics data provides a large amount of experimental data. We here present Plant Regulomics, an interface that integrates 19 925 transcriptomic and epigenomic data sets and diverse sources of functional evidence (58 112 terms and 695 414 protein−protein interactions) from six plant species along with the orthologous genes from 56 whole‐genome sequenced plant species. All pair‐wise transcriptomic comparisons with biological significance within the same study were performed, and all epigenomic data were processed to genomic loci targeted by various factors. These data were well organized to gene modules and loci lists, which were further implemented into the same statistical framework. For any input gene list or genomic loci, Plant Regulomics retrieves the upstream factors, treatments, and experimental/environmental conditions regulating the input from the integrated ’omics data. Additionally, multiple tools and an interactive visualization are available through a user‐friendly web interface. Plant Regulomics is available at http://bioinfo.sibs.ac.cn/plant-regulomics.
APETALA 2‐like genes AP2L2 and Q specify lemma identity and axillary floral meristem development in wheat
Authors: Debernardi Juan Manuel , Greenwood Julian R. , Jean Finnegan E. , Jernstedt Judy , Dubcovsky Jorge
Published: September 2019

The spikelet is the basic unit of the grass inflorescence. In tetraploid (Triticum turgidum) and hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum), the spikelet is a short indeterminate branch with two proximal sterile bracts (glumes) followed by a variable number of florets, each including a bract (lemma) with an axillary flower. Varying levels of miR172 and/or its target gene Q (AP2L5) result in gradual transitions of glumes to lemmas, and vice versa. Here, we show that AP2L5 and its related paralog AP2L2 play critical and redundant roles in the specification of axillary floral meristems and lemma identity. AP2L2, also targeted by miR172, displayed similar expression profiles to AP2L5 during spikelet development. Loss‐of‐function mutants in both homeologs of AP2L2 (henceforth ap2l2) developed normal spikelets, but ap2l2 ap2l5 double mutants generated spikelets with multiple empty bracts before transitioning to florets. The coordinated nature of these changes suggest an early role of these genes in floret development. Moreover, the flowers of ap2l2 ap2l5 mutants showed organ defects in paleas and lodicules, including the homeotic conversion of lodicules into carpels. Mutations in the miR172 target site of AP2L2 were associated with reduced plant height, more compact spikes, promotion of lemma‐like characters in glumes and smaller lodicules. Taken together, our results show that the balance in the expression of miR172 and AP2‐like genes is crucial for the correct development of spikelets and florets, and that this balance has been altered during the process of wheat and barley (Hordeum vulgare) domestication. The manipulation of this regulatory module provides an opportunity to modify spikelet architecture and improve grain yield.
Transforming rural light and dark under planetary urbanisation: Comparing ordinary countrysides in India and the UK
Authors: Kumar Ankit , Shaw Robert
Published: September 2019

Contemporary global lightscapes are becoming increasingly complex and varied, creating an unusual geography of technological development and diffusion that defies many easy narratives of global interconnectivity. Specifically, new LED lighting technologies are being created through rural experimentation in both Global North and Global South. This makes lighting, and darkness, an interesting lens through which to intervene in debates on the relationship between city, countryside, and planet, specifically addressing the theoretical developments of comparative urbanism and planetary urbanisation. Heading calls to develop conceptual material from both Global North and Global South, we use case studies from Bihar (India) and the North Pennines (UK) to argue that the changing lighting technologies and practices show how “ordinary countrysides” are contributing to new planetary ways of living. We argue that while there are differences in how darkness and the implementation of artificial lighting are perceived in these sites, there are similarities that reveal an ongoing rural form of planetary living, outside the claims of urbanisation. Particularly, rural lives are marked by a closer connection to the planet, as expressed through experiences of rural darkness. Furthermore, in both sites the tenuous grasp on infrastructure and state services seems to reveal a shared rural experience. These findings suggest shared rural experiences of globalisation, but that the socio‐spatial contexts of places remain important in understanding their location within global systems. Furthermore, we join recent calls to suggest that further exploration of the difference between “global” and “planetary” might add nuance to theoretical trends in urban studies, rural studies, and geography.
CT attenuation values and mineral distribution can be used to differentiate dogs with and without gallbladder mucoceles
Authors: Fuerst Jason A. , Hostnik Eric T.
Published: September 2019

Gallbladder mucoceles are potentially fatal in dogs. Multiphase CT angiography was performed to evaluate the canine gallbladder in three conditions: no sludge, sludge occupying ≥25% of the lumen, and mucoceles. Twenty dogs with normal hepatobiliary bloodwork and no‐to‐minimal gallbladder sludge, 13 dogs with normal bloodwork and ≥25% sludge in the gallbladder lumen, and 18 dogs with histologically confirmed gallbladder mucoceles were enrolled in a prospective, observational diagnostic accuracy study. Three regions of interest (ROI) were stratified in the dorsal‐ventral orientation and a single ROI was measured within the hepatic parenchyma. Mean attenuation and presence of mineral were recorded. Average Hounsfield units (HU) were recorded for precontrast, arterial, portovenous, and late venous phases. The overall median HU value for mucoceles was significantly higher than gallbladders without sludge and with sludge; precontrast median overall attenuation was 49.3, 35.8, and 39.7 HU, respectively (P < .000004). Mineral was seen in four (20%) dogs with no sludge, seven (56%) dogs with sludge, and nine (50%) dogs with mucoceles. Mineral in the dogs with mucoceles was located within the central aspect of the gallbladder lumen in 67% of mucoceles; this mineral distribution was not seen in any dog without a mucocele. Computed tomography can differentiate a subset of gallbladder mucoceles from dogs with and without gallbladder sludge, especially in the precontrast series. An HU value of 48.6 is 52% sensitive and 96% specific for a gallbladder mucocele. A hyperattenuating gallbladder on precontrast CT images and centrally distributed mineral can be a gallbladder mucocele.
The Role of Emotional Intelligence to Shape the Extra-Role Behaviors: Mediating effect of Emotional Labor Strategies
Authors: Ali Nisar Qasim , Nawaz Mamoona , Othman Noraini , Mustafa Kamil Bidayatul Akmal
Published: September 2019

Emotions are considered valuable for human experiences that regulate human actions and thoughts. Teachers’ emotional intelligence and emotional labor strategies play a key role to enhance extra-role behaviors. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of teachers’ emotional intelligence on their extra-role behaviors (OCB) while concentrating on the mediating role of emotional labor strategies. Data were collected from 250 teachers of universities by applying simple random sampling technique. Moreover, the measurement model was assessed by using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling was used to test the hypotheses. The findings showed the positive relationship of teachers’ emotional intelligence with their extra-role behaviors (OCB). In addition, the results portrayed that emotional labor strategies (surface acting and deep acting) mediate the association between teachers’ emotional intelligence and their organizational citizenship behavior. This study gives an insight understanding regarding the crucial role of teachers’ emotions to enhance their extra-role behaviors. Meanwhile, limitations of this study were also discussed with future direction.
Reflective –Formative Measurement Model of Social Factors and Willlingness To Share Knowledge
Authors: Abdul Razak Norfadzilah , Pangil Faizuniah , Mohd Zin Md Lazim
Published: September 2019

This paper aims to investigate the convergent and construct validity between reflective and formative measurement model. The difference assessment presents a different result of the validity. This paper analysed the reflective construct followed by formative measurement of second-order constructs (i.e., social factors and willingness to share knowledge) using SmartPLS. The data were collected from 150 of the knowledge worker in the ICT industry which registered in a MSC Company. The finding confirmed the indicator and construct examined in the model were valid and reliable. Furthermore, details of discriminant validity, collinearity, tolerance, and variance influence factor were also further discussed. The implication of this finding are brought to fore.
The Relationship between Supervisor Safety, Safety Management Practices, and Safety Compliance Behaviour among Employees
Authors: Hassan Zuraida , Rahim Rashidah
Published: September 2019

This cross-sectional research was conducted to establish the relationship between supervisor safety, safety management practices, and safety compliance behaviour among medical laboratory personnel in the private sector. There were 119 respondents from private medical laboratories in Selangor. The data were collected using a survey questionnaire adopted from past research that measured supervisor safety, safety management practices, and safety compliance behaviour. The data obtained from the study were analysed using SPSS. The findings show that supervisor safety has a positive correlation with safety compliance behaviour. Meanwhile, safety management practices were not significantly correlated to the dependent variable. The results of this study could give additional information to the private medical laboratory organisations in improving their safety practices and management for a safe and healthy work environment.
Effectiveness of Performance Appraisal (EPA): Does Distributive Fairness and Employee Participation Matter?: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Babagana Suleiman Abubakar , Mat Norsiah , Ibrahim Hadziroh
Published: September 2019

There has been a great deal of research into performance appraisal, especially concerning the factors that influence the effectiveness of performance appraisal (EPA). Studies suggest that elements such as organizational fairness, organizational politics, and leadership style may contribute to the EPA. Regardless of the evidence of research on these issues, there is paucity of research linking the impact of distributive fairness on the EPA. Moreover, prior studies, similar to this, have reported mixed findings. Accordingly, this study proposes the moderating role of employee participation in the relationship between distributive fairness and the EPA.
Building Information Modelling in Architecture : Implication of Building Information Modelling in Education/ Informasi Permodelan Bangunan Senibina: Implikasi Informasi Permodelan Bangunan dalam Pendidikan
Authors: Mohamad Nizar Zuraida , Mohd Karim Khofizhoah , Zainudi Nor Asmiza
Published: September 2019

BIM or Building Information Modelling is the latest technology that widely used in industry such as architecture, engineering dan construction. Hence, it plays a role in increasing value in architectural education in line with industrial need. It is imperative that architectural BIM been used in education level to produce highly skilled students. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of BIM in the field of Architectural Technology Certificate in Community College through BIM Architecture. It aims to examine the relationship between interest and skills towards student attitudes. Then identify the influence of interest and skills on student attitudes. This study used quantitative method of questionnaire. Data were collected from 30 students of Architectural Technology from 2 Community College from population of 45 respondents. The two Community Colleges involved are Bandar Darulaman Community College and Kepala Batas Community College. Results presented there was strong correlation between attitudes and skills which is significant (r=0.566, p=0.01). In detail, attitude and interest (r=0.406, p=0.26) were positively ang significantly correlated with skills. In addition, the results of the analysis also showed that the skills influence the attitude with β= 0.481 which is considered as 48.1 percent from the total percentage. Whilst, the interest did not influence the attitude of the students in studying BIM Architecture (r= 0.178, p=0.275). Hence, this indication the effectiveness of BIM Architecture in education influenced by the attitude and encouraged students to be interested in Architectural BIM. While skill is within the TVET application in learning of todays community college. It is also evident that the interest does not influence the attitude of the students in learning of Architectural BIM. Difference with skills that could influenced the attitudes towards more skilled and diligent in the learning of Architectural BIM. The results of this study help in enforcement of the implications of learning Architectural BIM at the Department of Polytechnic and Community College.
Actual Practices of Environmental Performance in Malaysia’s Hotel Industry: Comparison among Malaysia, Mexico and Turkey Hotel Industry
Authors: Mohd Yusoff Yusmani
Published: September 2019

Environmental performance generally led to various benefits for example cost savings, regulatory compliance, increase image and competitiveness. Along with the movement of environmental concerns, the hotel industry also continuously put an interest in environmental performance programs. The adoption of environmental performance programs in Malaysia's hotel industry is not widespread regardless of the success of several international hotel groups. Therefore, it is important to identify the environmental performance programs in the hotel industry by providing fresh insights and empirical evidence of the actual environmental performance programs that have been practicing in Malaysia. This study involved the participation of 206 respondents. The main finding is the environmental performance programs in Malaysia's hotel industry can be classified as four categories: energy saving, green sourcing, resource conservation, and water management and conservation. This result indicates that in Malaysia, the hotel industry performs four types of environmental performance programs and other countries such as Mexico and Turkey also carry out the same environmental performance activities as implemented in Malaysia.
Parental Influence and Undergraduates’ Career Choice Intentions
Authors: Yean Tan Fee , Chin Tay Lee
Published: September 2019

The underrepresentation of graduates in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields has become a matter of grave concerns for many governments around the world, especially Malaysia, as STEM education is the key to economic progress. The aim of this study is to identify the effects of parental influence on undergraduate students’ career choices. For the purpose of this study, data were obtained with the use of structured questionnaires which were administered to 242 final year undergraduate students within STEM disciplines. The regression analysis revealed that continuous information and support from parents have a lasting positive impact on students’ interest in STEM careers. Results from this research can be useful for education policy-makers and carry valuable information for further research in education and career planning
Knowledge and Attitudes towards Road Safety Awareness among Secondary School Students in Batu Pahat, Johor
Authors: Ahmad Mustafa Anjang , Topik Siti Athirah , Ambak Kamarudin , Rohani Munzilah Md , Sukor Nur Sabahiah Abd
Published: September 2019

Road safety awareness is a important element subject in which also involved school students. The school students are the most prone group of that become the victims of the road accidents. This study is carried out to identify the road safety awareness, knowledge, driving attitudes among secondary school students in Parit Raja, Johor. The study was involved a total of 298 school students as respondents. The questionnaires were distributed and the data were processed using descriptive statistics, t-test, correlation and regression analyses. The descriptive analysis shows, more than half of respondents are those aged 16 years old. About 76.5% of them do not have the driving license. The result also shows that the road safety awareness among the students is at quite high level (mean score = 3.57). Next, t-test and regression analysis shows that every 1% increase in road safety awareness will affect 35.0% of increase to driving attitude among students (p<0.05, β = 0.35). Besides that, the factor analysis, items in the variable of Road Safety Factor shows that there are three methods of road safety are identified; Environment of Highway, Uses of Highway and Law of Road Safety. Therefore, road safety awareness and driving attitudes are the important factors to ensure the road user concern to road safety. However, some improvements to the existing road facility or road safety deficiencies in Parit Raja need to be undertaken to ensure the road is safer to others.
Steps to Implement ISO 9000: 2005 Quality Management System: Case Study at Malaysian Higher Education Institutions/ Langkah-Langkah Pelaksanaan Sistem Pengurusan Kualiti ISO 9000:2005: Kajian Kes Di Institusi Pengajian Tinggi Malaysia
Authors: Basir Siti Arni , Abdul Ghani Azmi Ilhaamie , Syed Ismail al Qudsy Sharifah Hayaati , Ahmadun Musaiyadah , Kamaruzzaman Syahrul Nizam , Mohamed Hasan Albanna
Published: September 2019

ISO 9000 is a quality management system widely used. ISO 9000 has begun being implemented in Malaysia's IPT since the 1990s as one of the initiatives for quality assurance. While the number of HEIs in Malaysia that are implementing ISO 9000 is increasing, however, empirical studies of the implementation of the system are still underdeveloped. Therefore, the objective of this article is to study the implementation steps of ISO 9000 quality management system at Malaysian HEI. This study uses a qualitative approach by using case study as a research strategy. A public HEI located in Selangor was chosen as a research location. This study uses a semi-structured interview method carried out on fifteen informants who are actively involved in the implementation of ISO 9000. The informants represent the categories of faculty management, quality coordinator and lecturers. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis method which was assisted by Nvivo software. The research finding show that the implementation of ISO 9000 in the HEI involves seven steps; organizational context analysis, training, leadership, development of work groups, implementation, monitoring and improvement. All these steps have been well implemented with participation from all faculty members. The results of this study contribute to the development of knowledge related to the implementation of ISO 9000: 2015 in Malaysian HEI.  The research findings can be employed as a guideline to university administrators, public sector officers or corporate managers in their effort to implement ISO 9000 effectively in their respective organizations.