bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Program Kemitraan Masyarakat dalam Meningkatkan Produktivitas dan Pendapatan Usahatani Kakao di Desa Siniu
Authors: Muhardi Muhardi , Abdul Rauf Rustam , Effendy Effendy
Published: January 2021

Desa Siniu merupakan salah satu desa di Kabupaten Parigi Moutong. Sebagian besar penduduknya bermatapencaharian sebagai petani. Usahatani kakao merupakan bagian dari perekonomian masyarakat Desa Siniu, namun akhir-akhir ini produktivitas kakao mengalami penurunan. Tujuan program kemitraan masyarakat (PKM) ini adalah menganalisis permasalahan yang dihadapi oleh Kelompok Tani  Fatu Ghadera di Desa Siniu dalam hal produktivitas kakao, kualitas biji kakao, dan harga jual ditingkat petani yang rendah.  Target khusus yang ingin dicapai  adalah peningkatan produktivitas kakao, kualitas biji kakao, nilai tambah produk dan harga jual ditingkat petani.  Metode yang dipakai untuk mencapai target khusus adalah menawarkan berbagai teknologi pertanian. Upaya peningkatan produktivitas kakao dilakukan dengan memanfaatkan bahan baku lokal menjadi pupuk organik, pembenahan teknik budidaya kakao dan  pengendalian hama penyakit tanaman kakao dengan biopestisida berbahan baku lokal.  Peningkatan kualitas biji kakao, nilai tambah dan harga jual ditingkat petani dilakukan dengan teknologi fermentasi, sortasi dan rantai pemasaran yang efisien.  Metode pendekatan yang digunakan adalah pembinaan dengan kegiatan berupa: penyuluhan dan pelatihan, pelatihan manajemen produksi dan usaha, kerja praktek, serta pendampingan anggota kelompok tani.  Hasil yang dicapai dalam kegiatan PKM ini adalah: (1). terdapat peningkatan keterampilan teknik budidaya tanaman kakao, (2). terdapat peningkatan keterampilan teknik pengendalian hama dan penyakit tanaman kakao, (3). terdapat peningkatan keterampilan pembuatan pupuk organik berbahan baku lokal, (4). terdapat peningkatan keterampilan teknik fermentasi pada biji kakao, (5). secara rata-rata terjadi peningkatan produktivitas 2,36% dan pendapatan usahatani kakao sebesar 6,25%.
Different molecular changes underlie the same phenotypic transition: origins and consequences of independent shifts to homostyly within species
Authors: Mora-Carrera Emiliano , Stubbs Rebecca , Keller Barbara , Léveillé-Bourret Étienne , Vos Jurriaan de , Szövényi Peter , Conti Elena
Published: January 2021

The molecular basis of phenotypic convergence, a key topic in
evolutionary biology and ecology, has been investigated especially
between species. However, it remains unclear whether mutations in the
same or different positions of the same gene, or in different genes
underlie phenotypic convergence within species. A classic example of
convergence is the transition from outcrossing to selfing in plants,
illustrated by the repeated shift from heterostyly to homostyly.
Heterostyly is characterized by the reciprocal position of male and
female sexual organs in two (or three) distinct, incompatible floral
morphs, while homostyly is characterized by a single, self-compatible
floral morph. Primula has long served as the prime model for
studies of heterostyly and homostyly. Here, we elucidate the phenotypic
and molecular origins of homostyly in P. vulgaris and its
microevolutionary consequences by integrating microsatellite analyses of
both progeny arrays and natural populations characterized by varying
frequencies of homostyles with DNA sequence analyses of the gene
controlling the position of female sexual organs (CYPᵀ). We found
that: homostyles evolved repeatedly from short-styled individuals in
association with different types of loss-of-function mutations in
CYPᵀ and, consequently, short-styled individuals occur at lower
frequencies than long-styled individuals across populations with all
three morphs; the shift to homostyly promotes a shift to selfing; and
intra-population frequency of homostyles is positively correlated with
selfing rate and inbreeding level, increasing genetic differentiation
among populations. These results elucidate the connections between the
genotypic and phenotypic levels of convergence and the effects of
contrasting floral morphologies on reproductive strategies.
Role of monitored anaesthesia care in peri-procedural stroke during unprotected transfemoral aortic valve replacement: A case report
Authors: ak hulya yilmaz , Ozsahin Yasemin , Erkalp Kerem , Salihoglu Ziya
Published: January 2021

Abstract: Backgraound: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI),
with its improved valve technologies will also be an option for patients
in the near future and improved operator experience. Cerebrovascular
events are among the most feared complications of TAVI, since they cause
high morbidity and mortality. Case: After the patient with EuroSCORE II
= 8.6% was considered to be at high risk in terms of surgery, the
decision to perform TAVI was taken. The valve (Medtronic 26 mm) was
successfully placed during the 110 min procedure. Blood loss was 140 mL,
no red blood cell (RBC) transfusion and catecholamines requirements were
present, no VF (ventricular fibrillation) and cardiac tamponade were
observed and post procedure left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)
was 60%. At the end of the procedure, the BIS value of the patient was
70, regression in the Glasgow Coma Score (GCS = 12), anisocoria in the
pupils (R = 2 mm < L = 4 mm) and motor loss in the right arm
(3/5) and right leg (3/5) were detected. Modified Rankin scale (mRS) was
evaluated as 4. Conclusions: The neurological complication rate of up to
80% during and in the days following the procedure, the long recovery
period after embolism, the possibility of being a nursing patient and
even the risk of death, remind us that the TAVI procedure and the
sedation given during the procedure should never be underestimated.
Keywords: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation, cerebral embolism,
complications, neuroradiology, monitorized anaesthesia care, aort
stenosis.
Arthritis in systemic lupus erythematosus is characterized by local IL-17A and IL-6 expression
Authors: Sippl Natalie , Faustini Francesca , Rönnelid Johan , Turcinov Sara , Chemin Karine , Gunnarsson Iva , Malmström V
Published: January 2021

Arthritis is a common clinical feature of systemic lupus erythematosus
(SLE) and is usually non-erosive as opposed to rheumatoid arthritis
(RA). While RA synovial pathology has been extensively studied, little
is known about the pathophysiology of lupus arthritis. Here, we aimed to
explore the cytokine and cellular compartments in synovial fluids of SLE
patients with arthritic manifestations. Acellular synovial fluid and
paired serum samples from SLE patients (n=17) were analyzed with
cytokine bead array for T helper associated cytokines. From two SLE
patients, synovial fluid mononuclear cells (SFMC) were analyzed by
multiparameter flow cytometry to dissect T cell, B cell, monocyte and
dendritic cell phenotypes. SLE-derived SFMC were further stimulated in
vitro to measure their capacity for producing IFN and IL-17A. All
patients fulfilled the ACR 1982 classification criteria for SLE.
Clinical records were reviewed to exclude the presence of comorbidities
such as osteoarthritis or overlap with RA. IL-17A and IL-6 levels were
high in SLE synovial fluid. A clear subset of the synovial CD4+ T cells
expressed CCR6+, a marker associated with Th17 cells. IL-17-production
was validated amongst CD4+CCR6+ T cells following in vitro stimulation.
Furthermore, a strong IFN production was observed in both CD4+ and CD8+
cells. Our study shows high IL-17A and IL-6 levels in synovial fluids of
patients with lupus arthritis. The Th17 pathway have been implicated in
several aspects of SLE disease pathogenesis and our data points to Th17
involvement also for lupus arthritis.
Species's traits and network topology drive the robustness of a marine food web to species removal
Authors: Merillet Laurène , Robert Marianne , Hernvann Pierre-Yves , Pecuchet Laurène , Pavoine Sandrine , Mouchet Maud , Primicerio Raul , Kopp Dorothée
Published: January 2021

The analysis of the dynamics of interaction networks (i.e. trophic webs)
better capture the state of ecosystem facing a perturbation than
individual species dynamics could. We propose a framework that examines
network robustness to a given perturbation at the local (species),
mesoscale (species directly linked together) and global (network) level,
based on traits and the topology of the network. Using the Celtic Sea as
an example, we showed that the network was the least robust to the
simulated loss of forage taxa and the most exposed taxa to fishing
pressure, indicating conservation priority could be focused on these
taxa. However estimating the sensitivity to fishing at the taxa ‘level
was insufficient to predict the robustness of the network. The network
appeared relatively robust to the simulated loss of the most central
taxa, suggesting that mesoscale metrics such as centrality, although
widely used, are not always adapted to prioritize species conservation.
High-resolution imaging of depth filter structures using X-ray computed tomography
Authors: Johnson Thomas , Iacoviello Francesco , Welsh John , Shearing Paul , Bracewell Daniel
Published: January 2021

A multiple length scale approach to the imaging and measurement of depth
filters using X-ray computed tomography is described. Three different
filter grades of varying nominal retention ratings were visualized in 3D
and compared quantitatively based on porosity, pore size and tortuosity.
Positional based analysis within the filters revealed greater voidage
and larger average pore sizes in the upstream quartile before reducing
progressively through the filter from the center to the downstream
quartile, with these results visually supported by voidage distance maps
in each case. Flow simulation to display tortuous paths that flow may
take through internal voidage were examined. Digital reconstructions
were capable of identifying individual constituents of voidage,
cellulose and perlite inside each depth filter grade, with elemental
analysis on upstream and downstream surfaces confirming perlite
presence. Achieving an appropriate pixel size was of particular
importance when optimizing imaging conditions for all grades examined. A
3 µm pixel size was capable of representing internal macropores of each
filter structure, however for the finest grade an improvement to a 1 µm
pixel size was required in order to resolve micropores and small perlite
shards. Enhancing pixel size resulted in average porosity measurements
of 70% to 80% for all grades.
Improving Vitamin D testing and supplementation in children with newly-diagnosed cancer: A Quality Improvement Initiative at Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego
Authors: Shliakhtsitsava Ksenya , Fisher Erin Stucky , Trovillion Erin , Bush Kelly , Kuo Dennis , Newfield Ron , Thornburg Courtney , Roberts William , Aristizabal Paula
Published: January 2021

Background: Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency have been associated
with poorer health outcomes. Children with cancer are at high risk for
Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency. At our institution, we
identified high variability in Vitamin D testing and supplementation in
this population. Of those tested, 65% were Vitamin D
deficient/insufficient. We conducted a quality improvement (QI)
initiative with aim to improve Vitamin D testing and supplementation
among children aged 2-18 years old with newly-diagnosed cancer to ≥ 80%
over 6 months. Methods: An inter-professional team reviewed baseline
data, then developed and implemented interventions using
Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles. Barriers were identified using QI
tools, including lack of automated triggers for testing and inconsistent
supplementation criteria and follow-up testing post-supplementation.
Interventions included an institutional Vitamin D guideline, clinical
decision-making tree for Vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency and
sufficiency, electronic medical record triggers, and automated testing
options. Results: Pre-intervention: N=26 patients, four (15%) had
baseline Vitamin D testing; two (8%) received appropriate
supplementation. Post-intervention: N=33 patients; 32 (97%) had
baseline Vitamin D testing; 33 (100%) received appropriate
supplementation and completed follow-up testing timely (6-8 weeks
post-supplementation). Change was sustained over 24 months. Conclusions:
We achieved and sustained our aim for Vitamin D testing and
supplementation in children with newly-diagnosed cancer through
inter-professional collaboration of hematology/oncology, endocrinology,
hospital medicine, pharmacy, nursing, and information technology. Future
PDSA cycles will address patient compliance with Vitamin D
supplementation and impact on patients’ Vitamin D levels.
An exploration of assembly strategies and quality metrics on the accuracy of the Knightia excelsa (rewarewa) genome.
Authors: McCartney Ann , Hilario Elena , Choi Seung-Sub , Guhlin Joseph , Prebble Jessie , Houliston Gary , Buckley Thomas , Chagné David
Published: January 2021

We used long read sequencing data generated from Knightia excelsaI R.Br,
a nectar producing Proteaceae tree endemic to Aotearoa New Zealand, to
explore how sequencing data type, volume and workflows can impact final
assembly accuracy and chromosome construction. Establishing a
high-quality genome for this species has specific cultural importance to
Māori, the indigenous people, as well as commercial importance to honey
producers in Aotearoa New Zealand. Assemblies were produced by five long
read assemblers using data subsampled based on read lengths, two
polishing strategies, and two Hi-C mapping methods. Our results from
subsampling the data by read length showed that each assembler tested
performed differently depending on the coverage and the read length of
the data. Assemblies that used longer read lengths (>30 kb)
and lower coverage were the most contiguous, kmer and gene complete. The
final genome assembly was constructed into pseudo-chromosomes using all
available data assembled with FLYE, polished using Racon/Medaka/Pilon
combined, scaffolded using SALSA2 and AllHiC, curated using Juicebox,
and validated by synteny with Macadamia. We highlighted the importance
of developing assembly workflows based on the volume and type of
sequencing data and establishing a set of robust quality metrics for
generating high quality assemblies. Scaffolding analyses highlighted
that problems found in the initial assemblies could not be resolved
accurately by utilizing Hi-C data and that scaffolded assemblies were
more accurate when the underlying contig assembly was of higher
accuracy. These findings provide insight into what is required for
future high-quality de-novo assemblies of non-model organisms.
Biodegradable and Biocompatible Graphene-based Scaffolds for Functional Neural Tissue Engineering: A Strategy Approach Using Dental Pulp Stem Cells and Biomaterials
Authors: Mansouri Negar , Al-Sarawi Said , Losic Dusan , Mazumdar Jagan , Clark Jillian , Gronthos S. , Doig Ryan
Published: January 2021

Neural tissue engineering aims to restore function of nervous system
tissues using biocompatible cell-seeded scaffolds. Graphene-based
scaffolds combined with stem cells deserve special attention to enhance
tissue regeneration in a controlled manner. However, it is believed that
minor changes in scaffold biomaterial composition, internal porous
structure, and physicochemical properties can impact cellular growth and
adhesion. The current work aims to investigate in vitro biological
effects of 3D graphene oxide (GO)/sodium alginate (GOSA) and reduced
GOSA (RGOSA) scaffolds on dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in terms of
cell viability and cytotoxicity. Herein, the effects of the 3D
scaffolds, coating conditions, and serum supplementation on DPSCs
functions are explored extensively. Biodegradation analysis revealed
that addition of GO enhanced the degradation rate of composite
scaffolds. Compared to the 2D surface, the cell viability of 3D
scaffolds was higher (p <0.0001), highlighting the optimal
initial cell adhesion to the scaffold surface and cell migration through
pores. Moreover, the cytotoxicity study indicated that the incorporation
of graphene supported higher DPSCs viability. It is also shown that when
the mean pore size of scaffold increases, DPSCs activity decreases. In
terms of coating conditions, poly-l-lysine (PLL) was the most robust
coating reagent that improved cell-scaffold adherence and DPSCs
metabolism activity. The cytotoxicity of GO-based scaffolds showed that
DPSCs can be seeded in serum-free media without cytotoxic effects. This
is critical for human translation as cellular transplants are typically
serum-free. These findings suggest that proposed 3D GO-based scaffolds
have favourable effects on the biological responses of DPSCs.
On the Nature of Exotic Matter in Morris-Thorne Wormholes
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Milwaukee School of Engineering, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-3109, USA, Kuhfittig Peter K F
Published: January 2021

It is well known that phantom energy, which is characterized by the equation of state p = ωρ, ω < −1, can support Morris-Thorne wormholes since it leads to a violation of the null energy condition. The purpose of this note is to show that the converse is also true in the following sense: for a typical shape function, the equation of state of exotic matter in the vicinity of the throat is given by p↓r = ωρ, ω < −1, where pr is the radial pressure.
Karjeras atbalsts mākslas skolu audzēkņiem
Authors:   Rēzeknes Mākslas un dizaina vidusskola, Ceksa-Ratniece Inga ,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
Published: January 2021

Mācību līdzekļa Karjeras atbalsts mākslas skolu audzēkņiem mērķis ir analizēt karjeras attīstības teorijas un izstrādāt karjeras atbalsta programmu mākslas skolu audzēkņiem profesionālās vidējās mākslas un dizaina izglītības izvēlē. Mācību līdzeklī pētītas piemērojamās karjeras attīstības teorijas, atbilstošu komunikāciju teoriju pielietojums un izvērtēts karjeras atbalsts, pamatojoties uz izglītojamo vecumposmu, analizēta karjeras atbalsta pieejamība mākslas skolās Latvijā un citās Eiropas valstīs, pamatota konsultēšanas procesā izmantojamo metožu nozīme. Latvijas Lauksaimniecības universitātes Izglītības un mājsaimniecības institūtā Karjeras konsultantu studiju programmas ietvaros autore ir izstrādājusi karjeras atbalsta programmu Rēzeknes Mākslas un dizaina vidusskolas (RMDV). Mākslas skolai, kurā ar karjeras atbalstu saprot darbību kopumu, kas palīdz skolu audzēkņiem iegūt informāciju un dod iespēju izzināt un izmantot savas intereses, spējas un prasmes, pieņemt patstāvīgus, apdomātus un izsvērtus lēmumus saistībā ar turpmāko izglītību, profesiju un darbu. Programmā tiek piedāvāts 10 nodarbību cikls, kurā tēmas ir savstarpēji saistītas, katrai tēmai veltot divas stundas. Karjeras atbalsts ir nepārtraukts process, kurā izglītojamais ir iesaistīts visu mācību laiku, uzsākot mācīties konkrētā skolā, līdz tās absolvēšanai. Šajā procesā karjeras atbalsta sniedzējs ir karjeras konsultants, kurš ir palīgs mākslas skolu audzēkņiem, lai viņi pēc konsultācijām varētu paši izvērtēt darba tirgus situāciju un būt savas dzīves scenārija noteicēji. Karjeras atbalsta rezultātā skolēnam rodas izpratne par karjeras virzību, viņš ir ieguvis pašapziņu un pārliecību par saviem pieņemtajiem karjeras lēmumiem. Karjeras atbalsta rezultātā ieguvēji ir visi - gan katrs indivīds atsevišķi, gan sabiedrība kopumā, tā veicinot ekonomiskās un sociālās vides attīstību. Metodiskais līdzeklis ir paredzēts skolu pedagogiem karjeras konsultantiem, mākslas skolu vadībai, skolotājiem un atbalsta personālam, lai sniegtu skolēniem zināšanas ne tikai par karjeras izpēti, pašizpēti, karjeras plānošanu un vadīšanu, bet arī atbalstītu tā, lai jaunietis, absolvējot skolu, būtu motivēts turpināt studijas kādā no mākslas un dizaina vidusskolām Latvijā, būtu pašapzinīgs un konkurētspējīgs darba tirgū un būtu orientēts uz pašizaugsmi.
The Foreign Economic Vector of Agribusiness Activity in the Western Region of Ukraine
Authors: Hubeni Yuriy , Krupa Oksana , Krupa Volodymyr , Tsiolkovska Sofiia
Published: January 2021

The article is devoted to researching peculiarities and trends of foreign economic activity of agribusinesses in the Western region of Ukraine according to the terms of the Ukraine-European Union Association Agreement. The authors discuss the theoretical essence of agribusiness, as a kind of entrepreneurship, and the nature of foreign economic activity of enterprises. The main conditions of free trade in agricultural products introduced by the terms of the Agreement are determined and their influence on agribusiness export-import operation dynamics in the Western economic region is analyzed. The contribution of certain regions to forming agrarian product export and import volume and structure is considered and the reasons for the considerable advantages of the Lviv region in foreign trade turnover of the Western region are elucidated. It was found that agribusiness cooperation with foreign partners is mainly realized by indirect methods through trade agency organizations or agrarian holding companies. The structure dynamics of production goods for export and import by agribusinesses was studied. Based on the results, some negative tendencies for the Ukrainian economy were noted. They include the preservation of raw exports with a high share of plant origin products and timber, and the predominance of ready-made products with high added value in the import structure. It was established that the Agreement and social political events in Ukraine changed the direction of some export-import flows of agribusiness from CIS countries towards the markets of the European Union and Asian countries. According to the scale of external trade operations with enterprises of the Western region of Ukraine, in general, and within certain trade groups, in particular, country-leaders are defined. Some positive and negative consequences of changes in the foreign economic activity vector are described. And finally, measures which will ensure an expansion and strengthening of Ukraine’s agribusiness presence on international market, are suggested.
Molecular phylogeny of the sect. Adonis (Genus adonis L., Ranunculaceae)
Authors: Najariyan Fatemeh , Sheidai Masoud , Koohdar Fahimeh , Talebi Mehdi
Published: January 2021

The ornamentally important genus Adonis L. (Ranunculaceae) consists of about
30 species. In Iran, 8 species are recognized. The new classification system
recognizes two subgenera, six sections, and six series for Adonis. The
species differentiation within the genus is controversial due to
morphological overlaps in different species and extensive morphological
variation. Therefore, the aims of present study were: 1- Species
delimitation within the Sect. Adonis based on morphological and molecular
evidences and, 2- Studying the species relationship based on molecular
phylogeny. Multivariate analyses of morphological and molecular (ITS and
ISSR) data differentiated the Adonis species. PCA biplot analysis of
morphological characters revealed morphological characters such as leaf
arrangement; leaf length, flower diameter, petal length and width, calyx
length, and pedicel length are of taxonomic implication in Adonis. Bayesian
tree of ITS sequences revealed that the sect. Adonis is differentiated from
the sect. Adonanthe. Based on ITS data, A. microcarpa showed close affinity
to A. scrobiculata, while A. aestivalis, A. icrocarpa and A.dentata were
close to each other.
Population differentiation and gene flow in Rrodium cicutarium: A potential medicinal plant
Authors: Jia Yaocheng , Khayatnezhad Majid , Mehri Shahram
Published: January 2021

Erodium (Geranaiceae) species are distributed in different habitats of Iran.
Some species are of medicinal importance while some are well known weeds. In
arid and semi-arid regions, E. cicutarium has had some importance as a
forage plant and is an important grazing plant and source of protein
supplements to straw for ruminants in semi deserts and wastelands of the
Middle East. There is no information on its population genetic structure,
genetic diversity, and morphological variability in Iran. Due to the
medicinal importance of this species, a genetic variability and populations?
structure study is performed studying 15 geographical populations of E.
cicutarium Therefore, we used six inter-retrotransposon amplified
polymorphism (IRAP) markers and 15 combined IRAP markers to reveal within
and among population genetic diversity in this plant. AMOVA test produced
significant genetic difference (PhiPT = 0.39, P = 0.010) among the studied
populations and also revealed that, 55% of total genetic variability was due
to within population diversity while, 45% was due to among population
genetic differentiation. Mantel test showed positive significant correlation
between genetic distance and geographical distance of the studied
populations. Networking, STRUCTURE analyses and population assignment test
revealed some degree of gene flow among these populations. PCoA plot of
populations based on morphological characters was in agreement with MDS plot
of molecular data. These results indicated that geographical populations of
E. cicutarium are well differentiated both in genetic content as well as
morphological characteristics. Consensus tree based on morphological and
genetic data separated some of these populations from the others suggesting
the existence of ecotypes within this species.
Phenotype differences in HLA-b27 positive versus negative patients with ankylosing spondylitis treated with tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors
Authors: Milic Biljana , Erdeljan Biljana , Jankovic Tanja , Popovic Milica , Strazmester-Majstorovic Gordana , Ilic Katarina
Published: January 2021

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 is one of the strongest known genetic
factors associated with the development of ankylosing spondylitis (AS), but
approximately 10% of AS patients are HLA-B27 negative. The aim of this study
was to compare clinical features and response to tumor necrosis factor-alpha
inhibitor (TNF-? inhibitor) therapy in HLA-B27 positive and negative
patients with AS. This retrospective analysis included AS patients treated
with TNF-? inhibitor for at least 12 weeks in two referral centers for
biologic therapy in Vojvodina province, Serbia. Clinical and demographic
parameters were compared between HLA-B27 positive and negative patients.
Data from 59 patients (59.32% male) were collected: 49 (83.05%) were HLA-B27
positive and 10 (16.95%) HLA-B27 negative. HLA-B27-positive patients showed
higher family aggregation (49% vs. 10%; p=0.033) compared with those who
were HLA-B27 negative. In contrast, HLA-B27 negative patients showed a
higher prevalence of peripheral arthritis (49% vs. 90%; p =0.032) and longer
diagnosis delay (8.42 vs. 5.73 years; p=0.016) but there were no differences
regarding dactylitis, enthesitis, uveitis or inflammatory bowel disease
(IBD). Also, no differences were observed between HLA-B27-positive and
negative patients regarding disease activity prior to TNF-?-inhibitor
therapy. All 59 patients who participated in the study has been administered
at least one TNF-? inhibitor. The mean age at introduction of TNF-?
inhibitor as well as mean disease duration from diagnosis until start of
TNF-? inhibitor were similar between groups. HLA-B27 positive patients had a
significantly longer drug survival time for first biologics (49.06?29.22
months), whereas HLA-B27 negative received it for 24.8?12.25 months
(p<0.0000). 4/49 HLA-B27 positive (8.2%) and 1/10 HLA-B27 negative patients
(10%) fail to demonstrate efficacy in AS (primary or secondary treatment
failure) with no difference between groups. One HLA-B27 positive patient on
etanercept developed IBD. All 6 non-responders switched to second TNF-?
inhibitor and showed a good clinical response. In our cohort, presence of
HLA-B27 was related to greater family occurrence, shorter diagnosis delay
and lower peripheral arthritis rate. Moreover, HLA-B27 positive patients
demonstrated significantly longer drug survival time for the first biologic
then HLA-B27 negative, but non-response rate was similar between groups.
Decrease of yield components and morphological traits of soybean full-sibs under drought conditions
Authors: Srebric Mirjana , Dumanovic Zoran , Peric Vesna , Andjelkovic Violeta
Published: January 2021

Soybean, as a plant species, is native to regions with conditions favourable
of humidity and temperatures for its growth and development. The expansion
of the soybean growing area resulted in requirements of varieties with
higher tolerance and more stable grain yield under drought conditions. In
order to develop high yielding varieties, the method of full-sib (FS)
selection was applied in this study, as one of many methods of recurrent
selection. The basic principle of recurrent selection is a cyclic selection,
with the aim to accumulate favourable alleles. Three most yielding F2:3
sister lines obtained from the crossing combination of varieties Kunitz and
Kador, were used for two combinations. Progenies of two FS crossing
combinations were tested in two locations during two years (2011 with more
favourable and 2012 with less favourable precipitation distribution). The
values of grain yield per plant, the most important components of yield and
morphological traits decreased under less favourable conditions. The highest
decrease was recorded in the number of pods and the number of grains per
plant, whereas the lowest decrease was found for the 1000-grain weight.
Regardless of the relatedness of the tested material, significant
differences in response to drought were observed not only between two FS
progenies, but also within progenies of each combination. Soybean grain
yield is a complex trait strongly affected by environmental conditions.
Under unfavourable conditions, the reductions in the following traits were
observed in progenies of two sister combinations: grain yield per plant
(26.5-36.0% and 25.6-42.7%), number of pods per plant (18.6-33.0% and
12.6-38.2%) and the number of grains per plant (18.1-30.2% and 14.3-37.6%).
Three progenies of FS crossings with the lowest yield reduction were
identified as suitable initial material for the development of varieties
with higher tolerance to drought conditions.
Influence of different environmental conditions and giberellic acid treatment on flowering time of divergent genotypes of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) and their F1 hybrids
Authors: Adzic Sladjan , Girek Zdenka , Pavlovic Suzana , Zecevic Bogoljub , Damnjanovic Jelena , Cvikic Dejan , Ugrinovic Milan
Published: January 2021

In the process of cabbage breeding and seed production, one of the most
important characteristics is the time of flowering. In order to investigate
the influence of genotype, season and term of sowing on the flowering
process, as well as the genetic control of this trait, an experiment was
conducted with three genotypes of cabbage N, B and Scc of different
geographical origin and different vegetation length, as well as three new F1
hybrids N x Scc , B x Scc and B x N obtained by hybridization between
genotypes. The experiment was conducted during three temperature different
seasons S1, S2 and S3 (average cold, cold and warm seasons), in three
different sowing terms: August 15 (I), September 1 (II) and September 15
(III). During the winter period favorable for vernalization, two treatments
with 300 ppm GA3 were performed. A statistically significant influence of
all examined factors: genotype, year, sowing term and gibberellin GA3
treatment, on flowering time was determined. AMMI analysis determined the
degree of adaptability of genotypes depending on the growing season, sowing
terms and GA3 treatment for the trait time of flowering. The highest
stability based on ASV values for flowering time was shown by hybrid BxN and
its parental component genotypes B and N, while the hybrid Scc x B proved to
be the most unstable in terms of flowering time. The pattern of relative
expression of the most important flower repressor BoFLC2 gene showed a
certain correlation with the flowering time of genotypes. The lowest
quantitative expression of this gene was found in genotype B and it had the
earliest flowering in all seasons, while genotype N had the highest relative
expression of the BoFLC2 locus and the latest flowering.
Anti-urease, total phenolic content and antioxidant activities of some Inula l. (Asteraceae) taxa in Turkey
Authors: Sevindik Emre , Aydin Sinem , Paksoy Mehmet , Sokmen Bahar
Published: January 2021

The genus Inula belongs to family Asteraceae and it is medicinally important
because it possesses cytotoxic, anticancer, hepatoprotective, antibacterial
and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this research was to explore
antioxidant and anti-urease activities of fifteen Inula taxa in Turkey.
Ethanol extracts of Inula taxa were obtained by Soxhlet extraction.
Antioxidant activity was determined through total antioxidant activity,
total phenolic content and copper reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC)
analyses. The highest total phenolic content and total antioxidant capacity
were found in I. orientalis (158.54?0.002 ?g GAE/mL) and I. macrocephala
(189.16?0.002 ?g AAE/mL). CUPRAC activity increases with the increasing
concentration of the extracts and the standard. Moreover, all the tested
plants exhibited better anti-urease activity than standard thiourea except
for I. anatolica and I. thapsoides subsp. thapsoides. Results obtained from
this study demonstrate that Inula species might be utilized as a probable
natural source in the pharmaceutical and food industries but further and
more specific studies are needed to determine active antioxidative and
anti-urease compounds in the extracts.
Identification of 1093-bp intron A, SNPS and indels discovered in the porcine pregnancy-associated glycoprotein 2-like (pPAG2-L) gene subfamily in pigs
Authors: Bieniek-Kobuszewska Martyna , Panasiewicz Grzegorz , Szafranska Bożena
Published: January 2021

The objective of this study was to identify the intron A sequence (between
exons 1 and 2) of pPAG2-L, novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and
mutations (InDels) within intron A in the crossbreed (Landrace x Large
White), Hirshmann hybrid and Duroc pigs. Genomic templates were isolated
from leukocytes, amplified, and the gel-out were purified and then
sequenced. Positive amplification control included CH242-60C13 BAC clone
(Duroc) containing pPAG1-L and pPAG2-L. This is the first report that
describes the 1093-bp intron A sequence from the pPAG2-L (Acc. No. KF471015;
GenBank), which increased general knowledge of the porcine genome. Novel
SNPs/InDels were identified within the intron A of the pPAG2-L in the
crossbreeds (72), Duroc (45) and Hirshmann hybrids (17). This is a pioneer
study describing identification of the intron A and SNPs/InDels in
crossbreeds that provides a novel major pattern that represents a large
portion of the genetic variation within the porcine genome. This information
should be valuable when genotyping (coding and noncoding regions)
multiparous sows from many breeds, in which reproductive phenotypes are
known.
Variability of morphological traits in sunflower inbred lines
Authors: Cuk Nemanja , Cvejic Sandra , Mladenov Velimir , Babec Brankica , Miklic Vladimir , Miladinovic Dragana , Jocic Sinisa
Published: January 2021

Except agronomic important traits, great diversity in sunflower is present in
morphological traits which are very useful in breeding studies. The main
objective of the paper was to determine genetic diversity among the 110
inbred lines in the collection of Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops
Novi Sad (IFVCNS) by screening 34 morphological traits according to a list
of descriptors of the International Union for the Protection of New
Varieties of Plants (UPOV) as to conduct the Distinctness, Uniformity and
Stability Test (DUS). The diversity of morphological traits was estimated by
Shannon diversity index (H?) and the diversity of sunflower inbred lines was
performed by homogeneity analysis (HOMALS) as well as discriminatory power
of the traits. The values of the traits in Shannon diversity index were the
highest (H?=0.99) for height of the tip of the blade compared to insertion
of petiole and bract position, while branching, head shape and seed color
showed low diversity (H?>0.1). The uniformity of inbred lines distribution
determined discriminative power of descriptors. Disk flower anthocyanin
coloration of stigma, hypocotyl anthocyanin coloration and intensity, leaf
blistering, leaf serration, seed stripes on and between the margins showed
the strongest discriminatory power. According to these six traits, the
collection of inbred lines was divided into two main groups and three
subgroups which better explained the relationships among the various inbred
lines. Inbred lines showed the great variability of morphological traits in
the whole collection and also among the inbred lines from the same type of
use.
Genotypic variability for grain quality attributes in restorer lines of hybrid rice
Authors: Hasan Jamil , Kulsum Umma , Majumder Rani , Sarker Umakanta
Published: January 2021

Twenty-six restorer line were selected for evaluation for genetic
variability, heritability and genetic association among physicochemical,
nutritional, yield and yield contributing traits in randomized complete
block design (RCBD) with three replications. The analysis showed that
restorer line has milling rice percentage, head rice recovery percentage,
cooking time, elongation ratio, amylase content and protein content with
average value among 26 genotypes (64.60%, 73,00%, 16.67 min, 1.38, 19.26%
and 6.36% respectively). Highest grain yield was obtained from the restorer
line 3038R (15.99 g/plant), followed by BRRI20R (14.83 g/plant), PR828R
(14.10 g/plant), PR312R (13.91 g/plant), BRRI31R (13.61 g/plant) and BRRI19R
(13.28 g/plant). The line BRRI20R and BRRI31R had high (25.00%) amylase and
protein content, milling rice percentage, head rice recovery percentage.
F2277R had less (14.00 min) cooking time. Grain yield exhibited a strong
positive correlation with head rice recovery percentage, amylase content and
thousand grain weight. Insignificant genotypic correlation was observed
among physicochemical, nutritional, yield related traits and grain yield.
Most of the studied traits indicating that selection with these traits might
be possible without compromising any yield loss. Based on mean, range,
genetic parameters, correlation coefficient and path coefficient values,
direct selection through five traits i.e., head rice recovery percentage,
cooking time, amylase content, protein content and thousand grain weight
would significantly improve the grain yield of restorer line. Some of these
restorer lines can be used for development of hybrid rice regarding these
physicochemical, nutritional quality and yield related traits.
Genetic homozygosity as a marker of smoking dependency
Authors: Brankovic Slavko , Nikolic Dejan , Marinkovic Dragoslav , Cvjeticanin Suzana
Published: January 2021

The aim of our study was to evaluate the morphogenetic variability as a
marker of smoking dependency in adult smokers versus controls and to
investigate the presence and the degree of morphogenetic variability
difference between male and female smokers versus same gender controls. The
cross-sectional study evaluated 241 smokers and 185 nonsmoker individuals as
controls. We analyzed 17 homozygous recessive characteristics (HRC). There
was a significant difference in the individual variations of 17 HRCs between
the controls and smokers (??2=61.400, p<0.001; for females ??2=79.440,
p<0.001; for males ??2=84.972, p<0.001). The mean values of HRCs
significantly differed between smokers and controls (MV?SEM(Controls)
-4.79?0.13, MV?SEM(Smokers) -5.70?0.12; p<0.001). For males, presence of
6/17 (35.29% genetic homozygosity) HRCs (OR=6.12) was to the certain degree
predictor for smoking dependency. Higher degree of genetic homozygosity,
changed variability and male gender, might be some among potential numerous
factors that could have impact on smoking development and dependence.
Gastrointestinal Motility and Functional Disorders
Authors: Bharucha Adil E
Published: January 2021

Gastrointestinal (GI) motility disorders represent diseases characterized by abnormal, predominantly impaired, sometimes exaggerated, movement of contents through the GI tract due to neuromuscular dysfunctions in the absence of mucosal disease and mechanical causes of impaired passage. By contrast, functional GI disorders represent illnesses, defined only by GI symptoms, which occur in the absence of mucosal or structural abnormality or of known biochemical or metabolic disorders. The first section of this chapter discusses the enteric and extrinsic neural regulation of GI sensorimotor functions and normal GI motility in humans. Disorders such as gastroparesis (including diabetic gastroparesis, idiopathic gastroparesis, and postsurgical gastroparesis), dumping syndrome, intestinal pseudo-obstruction, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, megacolon (including Hirschsprung disease, toxic megacolon, and colonic pseudo-obstruction), chronic constipation (including defecatory disorders, normal transit constipation, and slow transit constipation), functional dyspepsia, functional diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome, and fecal incontinence are then discussed in depth. Tables present a comparison of GI motility and functional disorders, the causes of gastroparesis, the etiology of intestinal pseudo-obstruction and fecal incontinence, common medical conditions and medications associated with constipation, and the symptom severity scale in fecal incontinence. Illustrations, graphs, magnetic resonance images, and algorithms are provided. This chapter contains 10 highly rendered figures, 6 tables, 92 references, and 5 MCQs.
Urinary Incontinence and Overactive Bladder Syndrome
Authors: Greene Kristie A. , Hoyte Lennox
Published: January 2021

Urinary incontinence falls into two broad categories: stress incontinence and urge incontinence. Stress urinary incontinence occurs when urethral closure pressure cannot increase sufficiently to compensate for a sudden increase in intra-abdominal pressure, as from a cough or Valsalva maneuver. Urge urinary incontinence occurs when an unintended bladder contraction creates an insuppressible urge to void, leading to urinary leakage. When women have signs and/or symptoms of both stress and urge incontinence, it is referred to as mixed urinary incontinence. Overactive bladder syndrome is defined by the Standardization Subcommittee of the International Continence Society (ICS) as urinary urgency, with or without urge incontinence and usually with frequency and nocturia. Nocturia, which is often associated with urinary frequency, is defined as a need to urinate that awakens the person during the night. This chapter discusses the epidemiology and physiology of urinary incontinence and overactive bladder syndrome in women, as well as diagnosis and treatment. Tables list foods and beverages that may cause urinary frequency and urgency; features of urge incontinence, stress incontinence, and mixed incontinence; American Urologic Association (AUA) guidelines regarding level of evidence and indications for adult urodynamics; and currently available antimuscarinic drugs and their dosages, selectivity, efficacy, and side effects. Figures depict the journal of someone with mixed incontinence, a typical urodynamics suite, a urodynamic study of someone with detrusor overactivity, incontinence pessaries, and transobturator and retropubic slings.
This review contains 5 figures, 5 tables, and 44 references.
Transfusion Medicine
Authors: Klein Harvey G
Published: January 2021

Transfusion medicine has advanced to a laboratory-based clinical discipline because of key discoveries and technical advances. These include the discovery of blood group antigens and the understanding of the host immune response to these antigens, development of methods of anticoagulation and storage of blood, and creation of plastic bags that allow sterile fractionation of whole blood into components. The potential of blood to act as an agent of disease transmission has heavily shaped both the donation process and transfusion practice. This chapter offers information to help the physician decide whether to transfuse. It includes sections on blood donation (autologous and directed), on postdonation screening procedures for the presence of viral agents (e.g., hepatitis, retrovirus, and emerging infectious pathogens), on pretransfusion testing (i.e., antigen phenotyping and testing for the presence of antibodies), and on blood components. Sections give specific information on transfusion of red cells, platelets, fresh frozen plasma, and recombinant clotting factors. Indications and complications of apheresis are described. Complications of transfusions are discussed, as are future prospects for transfusion therapy. Tables detail the advantages and disadvantages of autologous donation, estimated risks of blood transfusion, characteristics of blood products and indications for their use, plasma and recombinant clotting factors, indications for recombinant factor VIIa therapy, indications for the use of irradiated blood products, indications for the use of cytomegalovirus-negative blood products, and recommendations for therapeutic apheresis. This chapter contains 154 references.
Sepsis
Authors: LaRosa Steven P , Opal Steven M.
Published: January 2021

Sepsis, along with the multiorgan failure that often accompanies this condition, is a leading cause of mortality in the intensive care unit. Although modest improvements in the prognosis have been made over the past two decades and promising new therapies continue to be investigated, innovations in the management of septic shock are still required. This chapter discusses the definitions, epidemiology, and pathogenesis (including microbial factors, host-derived mediators, and organ dysfunction) relating to sepsis. Management of severe sepsis and septic shock is also described. 
This review contains 5 figures, 11 tables, and 99 references.
Keywords:Organ dysfunction, sepsis, septic shock, infection, bacteremia, fluid resuscitation, vasopressor
Acute Kidney Injury - Part I
Authors: Sanders Paul W , Agarwal Anupam
Published: January 2021

Acute renal failure (ARF) has been defined as a syndrome in which an abrupt decrease in renal function produces retention of nitrogenous waste products. Translating this abstract description into a clinically useful, accurate, and widely accepted definition has been challenging, in large part because of the focus on serum creatinine concentration, which is easily obtained but has the inherent limitation of poor detection of rapid or subtle, but clinically important, changes in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). In recent years, therefore, the term acute kidney injury (AKI) has replaced ARF because AKI denotes the entire clinical spectrum from mild increases in serum creatinine to overt renal failure. AKI is defined by the Risk-Injury-Failure-Loss-ESRD (RIFLE) criteria, based on serum creatinine concentration and urine flow rate. The Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) subsequently modified the definition further and divided AKI into three stages. This chapter includes discussions of the etiology and diagnosis of AKI in hospitalized patients and community-acquired AKI. The specific causes, management, and complications of AKI are also discussed. Figures illustrate the pathophysiologic classification of AKI and the effect of hyperkalemia on cardiac conduction—electrocardiogram (ECG) changes. A worksheet for following patients with AKI is provided. 
This review contains 3 figures, 20 tables, and 46 references.
Keywords:Acute kidney injury, dialysis, contrast, rhabdomyolysis, nephropathy, urinalysis, multiple myeloma, ethylene glycol, sepsis, hepatorenal syndrome