bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Tobacco Necrosis Virus in Deteriorating Clones of Aspen
Authors: Hibben Craig R. , Bozarth Robert F. , Reese Judith
Published: January 2021

Aspen (Populus tremuloides) is deteriorating in some sites in the middle Rocky Mountain region. Several causal factors have been implicated, but the exact etiology of aspen deterioration remains unknown. Foliar symptoms indicative of virus infection were observed in trees within 33 aspen clones, both deteriorating and nondeteriorating, in Utah. A virus was mechanically transmitted from five deteriorating clones to cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). Sucrose density-gradient centrifugation of one isolate of the virus revealed a single infectious component with a sedimentation velocity of S20,W = 110. Electron micrographs of the purified virus showed isometric particles 28 +ACY-plusmn+ADs- 1 nm diameter. Properties of the purified aspen virus and its antiserum showed the virus to be an isolate of tobacco necrosis virus (TNV-A). This is the first report of TNV in aspen. Two additional isolates of TNV antigenically dissimilar to TNV-A and to each other were recovered from one of the same five deteriorating clones. Healthy rooted aspen suckers were infected with purified TNV-A by mechanical inoculation. The possible role of virus infection in aspen deterioration is discussed. Forest Sci. 25:557-567.
Notes: Acid Phosphatase Activity in Forest Soil
Authors: Ho Iwan
Published: January 2021

Acid phosphatase activity in soil was significantly higher in a red alder forest and in a mixed red alder-Douglas-fir forest than in pure stands of Douglas-fir, ponderosa pine, lodge-pole pine, or western juniper or in a pasture. Forest Sci. 25:567-568.
Stimulation of Resinosis and Apparent Inhibition of Blue Stain Development in Ponderosa Pine by Paraquat
Authors: Kidd Frank , Reid C. P. P.
Published: January 2021

The effects of stemfrill application of paraquat solution concentration (1, 8, 16, and 30 percent), volume (5, 10, and 20 ml), and date of application (8-9 July and 21-22 August) on resinosis in sapwood of Pinus ponderosa were evaluated. The greatest yield of extractives resulted from treatment with 10 ml of an 8 percent solution applied 8-9 July. No qualitative changes in oleoresin composition attributable to paraquat application were detected by gas-liquid chromatography of the terpene fraction. Blue stain development was inhibited above treatment frills. This inhibition was greatest following treatment with 20 ml of 8 percent paraquat applied on 8-9 July. Growth of Ceratocystis montia, a fungal symbiont of the mountain pine beetle was prevented by paraquat at concentrations above 5 ppm in malt-agar medium. Forest Sci. 25:569-575.
Notes: Determining Sample Size in Throughfall Studies
Authors: Peterson D. L. , Rolfe G. L.
Published: January 2021

Variation in throughfall collection data is a major concern in nutrient cycling studies. In order to determine the magnitude of this variability in throughfall volume data collected in an oak-hickory stand in southern Illinois, regression equations were developed which indicate the sample size necessary for a specific level of variability. In addition to having predictive value, these equations indicate differences in variability on a seasonal basis. Forest Sci. 25:582-584.
Growth Responses of Northern Hardwoods to Fertilization
Authors: Lea R. , Tierson W. C. , Leaf A. L.
Published: January 2021

A 70-year-old thinned Fagus-Betula-Acer stand in the Adirondack Mountains of northern New York State was fertilized with varying amounts and combinations of N, P, K, and dolomitic limestone in the spring of 1976. Betula alleghaniensis, Acer saccharum, Acer rubrum, and Fagus grandifolia growth data were obtained for two growing seasons after fertilization. Comparisons were made within species and among treatments, expressed as basal area and cross-sectional area (at 5.27 m height) growth, specific volume growth, and stem form ratio. The overall results indicate that 275 kg/ha N significantly increases radial growth with minor responses to 138 kg/ha P and lime. Potassium additions, on the whole, did not significantly alter growth rates, and individually fertilized trees grew slightly more than trees receiving entire plot applications. No changes in stem form induced by fertilization have been detected. Forest Sci. 25:597-604.
Nitrate Losses From Disturbed Forests: Patterns and Mechanisms
Authors: Vitousek Peter M. , Melillo Jerry M.
Published: January 2021

Losses of nitrate in drainage water from disturbed forest ecosystems vary over a wide range. High losses of nitrate to streamwater or groundwater have been observed in a few sites, while in others only small increases in losses have occurred.

A limited set of mechanisms could be responsible for such differences. Before disturbance, annual nitrogen mineralization and plant nitrogen uptake vary widely among temperate forests, with higher rates observed in deciduous forests. Destructive disturbance increases nitrogen mineralization and (at least briefly) reduces plant uptake. The nitrogen mineralized in excess of plant uptake could be lost to streamwater or groundwater, lost to the atmosphere through ammonia volatilization or denitrification, or retained within the disturbed system through nitrogen immobilization by decomposers, clay fixation of ammonium, lags in nitrification, nitrate reduction to ammonium, nitrate adsorption on soil colloids, a lack of water for nitrate transport, or (once plant regrowth is established) plant nitrogen uptake.

Systematic studies of these mechanisms will allow the development of a more thorough understanding of the nitrogen cycle in disturbed ecosystems. Such an understanding should in turn permit the prediction of nitrate losses from distrubed forests. Forest Sci. 25:605-619.
A Monthly Model of the United States Demand for Softwood Lumber Imports
Authors: Buongiorno Joseph , Chou Jieh-Jen , Stone Robert N.
Published: January 2021

To analyze monthly imports of softwood lumber in the United States, five alternative hypotheses have been formulated and tested with monthly data relating to the period January 1965 to August 1978. The selected hypothesis suggests that imported lumber is only an imperfect substitute for domestically produced lumber. In addition, the decision to import softwood lumber depends upon importers' expectations regarding future levels of construction activity, domestic and foreign prices of softwood lumber, and domestic price of other goods. Expectations are adjusted from month to month by a constant fraction of the relative difference between observed and previously expected levels of the variables. This hypothesis led to a model expressing imports in a given month as a function of construction activity and prices in the same month, and of imports in the previous month. The resulting model had good statistical characteristics and provided the most accurate postsample forecasts. The results indicated that imports are more responsive, in terms of partial elasticity, to the price of domestic softwood lumber than to any other factor. Other things being equal, a 10 percent rise in domestic price leads to a long-term 11.6 percent increase in imports. The same rise in import price, which might result from a 10 percent increase in foreign price or from an equal decline in the value of the U.S. dollar, leads to a long-term decline in imports of 4.5 percent only. A similar decrease in imports would result from a 10 percent increase in the price of other U.S. goods which behave as complements for imported softwood lumber. A 10 percent inflation in all prices tends to cause as increase in imports of 2.8 percent. Full adjustment of imports to changes in construction activity and prices takes some 2 months. Construction activity and price variation explain most of the seasonal fluctuations in softwood lumber imports. Residual monthly deviations captured by dummy variables indicate that, other things equal, imports tend to be higher in February, March, June, and July than during the rest of the year. Forest Sci. 25:641-655.
Stand and Site Conditions Related to Southern Pine Beetle Susceptibility
Authors: Kushmaul Ronald J. , Cain Michael D. , Rowell Charles E. , Porterfield Richard L.
Published: January 2021

Stand/site data from infested stands were compared with those from the general forest. Findings supported earlier research relating high basal area, high stand density, high proportion of pines, reduced radial growth rate, low soil pH, and high site index to increased southern pine beetle activity in the West Gulf Coastal Plain. Also, increased understory vegetation and thicker bark of potential host trees were found to favor beetle attack. Discriminant models were derived from data obtained from infested and general stand (baseline) plots and can be used to rank forest stands as to susceptibility to southern pine beetle attack. Forest Sci. 25:656-664.
Notes: Determination of Optimal Thinning Entry Interval Using Dynamic Programming
Authors: Kao Chiang , Brodie J. Douglas
Published: January 2021

Using the "neighborhood" concept the time interval for dynamic programming analysis of thinning and rotation was reduced to 1 year. This permitted analysis of the optimal thinning entry interval which has usually been a fixed constant in previous studies. The changes in solution with fixed intervals of 2, 5, and 10 years are provided for comparison. Forest Sci. 25:672-674.
Effect of the transcutaneous electrical stimulation system on esophageal-acid exposure in patients non-responsive to once-daily proton-pump inhibitor: proof-of-concept study
Authors: Dickman Ram , Levy Sigal , Perets Tsachi Tsadok , Hazani-Pauker Maor , Boltin Doron , Schmilovitz-Weiss Hemda , Nidal Issa , Siterman Matan , Carter Dan , Fass Ronnie , Gingold-Belfer Rachel
Published: January 2021

Background

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common disorder. Overall, ≤35% of GERD patients fail the standard dose of proton-pump-inhibitor (PPI) treatment. Due to the high prevalence and low satisfaction rate with treatment failure, there is an unmet need for new treatment. Our aim was to evaluate whether the use of the transcutaneous electrical stimulation system (TESS) can reduce esophageal-acid exposure in GERD patients unresponsive to standard-dose PPI.

Methods

We enrolled 10 patients suffering from heartburn and regurgitation with an abnormal esophageal-acid exposure (off PPIs) who failed standard-dose PPI. After the placement of a wireless esophageal pH capsule, all patients were treated with TESS. The primary end point was the reduction in the baseline (pretreatment) 24-hour percent total time pH <4 and/or DeMeester score by 50%.

Results

Seven GERD patients (five females and two males, aged 49.3 ± 10.1 years) completed the study. At baseline, the mean percent total time pH <4 was 12.0 ± 4.9. Following TESS, the mean percent total time pH <4 dropped to 5.5 ± 3.4, 4.5 ± 2.6, 3.7 ± 2.9, and 4.4 ± 2.5 on Days 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. At baseline, the mean DeMeester score was 39.0 ± 18.5. After TESS, the mean DeMeester score dropped to 15.8 ± 9.2, 13.2 ± 6.8, 11.2 ± 9.4, and 12.0 ± 6.8 on Days 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively.

Conclusion

TESS is a safe and potentially effective modality in reducing esophageal-acid exposure in GERD patients unresponsive to standard-dose PPI. A larger and prospective controlled study is needed to verify these preliminary results.
MUTATOR GENE STUDIES IN ESCHERICHIA COLI: THE mutS GENE
Authors: Cox Edward C , Degnen Gerald E , Scheppe Mary L
Published: January 2021

We report here on a study of a mutator gene (mutS) that causes transition mutations in Escherichia coli. We have used the trpA system to show that A:T→G:C and G:C→A:T transitions occur. Not all A:T pairs are equally susceptible to mutS action however, since the A:T pair at the trpA223 site reverts at a frequency similar to, if not identical with, the frequency in a mut  + background. Presumably this is a consequence of neighboring bases, because other A:T pairs are reverted by mutS in the same gene; and an A:T pair in the lac operon is reverted at two widely separated points on the chromosome, and in two orientations relative to the trp sense strand. In addition, we have shown that the mutS1 allele is recessive to wild type, and trans active.
THE CHARACTERISTICS AND GENETIC MAP LOCATION OF A TEMPERATURE SENSITIVE DNA MUTANT OF E. COLI K12
Authors: Wolf Beverly
Published: January 2021

A temperature sensitive strain of E. coli K12 has been isolated in which residual DNA synthesis occurs at the 40°C restrictive temperature; syntheses of RNA, protein and DNA precursors are not directly affected. The mutation has been designated dna-325 and is located at 89 min on the E. coli map in the same region where the dnaC locus is found. dnaC mutants are considered to be defective in DNA initiation. Some of the data are consistent with the view that the dna-325 mutation is temperature sensitive in the process of DNA initiation rather than DNA chain elongation: (1) more than two cell divisions occur after a shift to 40°C; (2) upon a shift down to 30°C, cell division occurs again only after the DNA content of the cells has doubled; (3) 80% more DNA is made at 30°C in the presence of chloramphenicol after prior inhibition of DNA synthesis at 40°C. These three observations indicate that rounds of DNA replication were completed at 40°C. Also (4) infective λ particles can be made at 40°C long after bacterial DNA replication has ceased. It appears however that some DNA initiation can occur at 40°C since (1) a limited amount of DNA synthesis does occur at 40°C after prior alignment of the chromosomes by amino acid starvation at 30°C, and (2) after incubation in bromouracil at the restrictive temperature, heavy DNA is found with both strands containing bromouracil.
A POSSIBLE CASE OF POSITION EFFECT ON DNA REPLICATION IN DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER
Authors: Roberts Paul A
Published: January 2021

The behavior of T(3;4)10 provides evidence that the centromere of 4 is not in the doublet 101D3,4, and that most of what has been called the left arm of 4 should be called basal 4R. Basal 4R usually does not replicate as much as the tip of 4R when 4 is in its normal position in the chromocenter. Translocated to the tip of 3R, however, basal 4R attains a width equal to that of the rest of the arm-a possible position effect on DNA replication.
LETHALITY PATTERNS AND MORPHOLOGY OF SELECTED LETHAL AND SEMI-LETHAL MUTATIONS IN THE ZESTE-WHITE REGION OF DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER
Authors: Shannon M P , Kaufman T C , Shen M W , Judd B H
Published: January 2021

Aspects of the developmental genetics of lethal and semi-lethal mutants representing 13 complementation groups (cistrons) in the 3A-3C region of the X chromosome of Drosophila melanogaster are given. Each of these cistrons is associated with a particular chromomere in the salivary gland chromosome. Mutants within each cistron have similar lethality patterns and morphological attributes, and the characteristics of a given cistron are distinct with respect to other cistrons. These results provide additional evidence that only one function is associated with each chromomere.—The results of the lethality pattern analysis are also compared with previous studies of lethal mutants of Drosophila.
MAXIMUM LIKELIHOOD ANALYSIS OF POPULATION DIFFERENCES IN ALLELIC FREQUENCIES
Authors: Smouse Peter E , Kojima Ken-Ichi
Published: January 2021

Statistical techniques are presented for the analysis of geographic variation in allelic frequencies. Likelihood ratio test criteria are derived from a multinominal sampling distribution, and are used to answer three questions. (1) Are there geographic differences in allelic frequencies? (2) Are population differences in allelic frequencies associated with environmental differences? (3) Is there any residual "lack of fit" variation among populations, after accounting for that variation associated with environmental differences? The two- and three-allele cases are explicitly treated, and the extension to more alleles is indicated.
EVIDENCE FOR THE DIFFERENTIATION OF WILD-TYPE ALLELES IN DIFFERENT SPECIES OF NEUROSPORA
Authors: Srb Adrian M , Basl Mary
Published: January 2021

Wild-type alleles at the peak locus of Neurospora have been transferred by backcrossing from N. sitophila and N. tetrasperma to N. crassa. In the genomic background of N. crassa the different wild-type alleles show strikingly different dominance relations with Pk-4, a dominant peak mutation in N. crassa.
A FORMULA TO PREDICT THE TRANSMISSION FREQUENCY OF ACENTRIC FRAGMENTS
Authors: Carrano A V
Published: January 2021

A formula, based on the Poisson distribution of radiation-induced chromosomal deletions, was derived to predict the frequency of transmission of acentric fragments between subsequent mitoses. The frequency of deletions observed in the i  th + 1 division subsequent to fragment distribution at the i  th division anaphase is independent of the cell death resulting from fragment loss. Further, the transmission frequency of chromosome acentric fragments is mathematically equal to the fragment frequency observed in the i  th + 1 generation divided by the mean fragment frequency in the i  th generation. The formula was also extended to chromatid deletions.
Slowed Protein Turnover in Aging Drosophila Reflects a Shift in Cellular Priorities
Authors: Vincow Evelyn S , Thomas Ruth E , Merrihew Gennifer E , MacCoss Michael J , Pallanck Leo J
Published: January 2021

The accumulation of protein aggregates and dysfunctional organelles as organisms age has led to the hypothesis that aging involves general breakdown of protein quality control. We tested this hypothesis using a proteomic and informatic approach in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Turnover of most proteins was markedly slower in old flies. However, ribosomal and proteasomal proteins maintained high turnover rates, suggesting that the observed slowdowns in protein turnover might not be due to a global failure of quality control. As protein turnover reflects the balance of protein synthesis and degradation, we investigated whether decreases in synthesis or decreases in degradation would best explain the observed slowdowns in protein turnover. We found that while many individual proteins in old flies showed slower turnover due to decreased degradation, an approximately equal number showed slower turnover due to decreased synthesis, and enrichment analyses revealed that translation machinery itself was less abundant. Mitochondrial complex I subunits and glycolytic enzymes were decreased in abundance as well, and proteins involved in glutamine-dependent anaplerosis were increased, suggesting that old flies modify energy production to limit oxidative damage. Together, our findings suggest that age-related proteostasis changes in Drosophila represent a coordinated adaptation rather than a system collapse.
Limiting and Promoting Resident Self-Care in Assisted Living
Authors: Morgan Jennifer C , Kemp Candace L , Barmon Christina , Fitzroy Andrea , Ball Mary M
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Assisted living (AL) residents often manage multiple chronic conditions, functional and/or cognitive decline along with their individual needs and preferences for a full life. Although residents participate in their own care, little is known about their self-care activities and how to support them. This analysis focuses on residents’ self-care and theorizing the dynamic, socially embedded process of negotiating self-care.

Methods

We analyze data from a grounded theory study informed by the Convoys of Care model. Participants included 50 focal residents and 169 paid and unpaid convoy members in eight AL homes; each resident convoy was followed up for 2 years. Data collection included participant observation, interviews, and resident record review.

Results

To the extent possible, most AL residents were involved in self-care related to activities of daily living, health promotion, and social, emotional, and mental well-being. Residents and care partners engaged in a dynamic process of limiting and promoting self-care activities. Multiple factors influenced self-care, including residents’ past self-care behaviors, caregiver fear and availability, and the availability of services and supports.

Discussion

Strategies for promoting self-care must involve residents and care partners and include convoy education in collaborative goal-setting, prioritizing care that supports the goals, and putting resources in place to support goal achievement.
Association of Baseline Luminal Narrowing With Ileal Microbial Shifts and Gene Expression Programs and Subsequent Transmural Healing in Pediatric Crohn Disease
Authors: Ta Allison D , Ollberding Nicholas J , Karns Rebekah , Haberman Yael , Alazraki Adina L , Hercules David , Baldassano Robert , Markowitz James , Heyman Melvin B , Kim Sandra , Kirschner Barbara , Shapiro Jason M , Noe Joshua , Oliva-Hemker Maria , Otley Anthony , Pfefferkorn Marian , Kellermayer Richard , Snapper Scott , Rabizadeh Shervin , Xavier Ramnik , Dubinsky Marla , Hyams Jeffrey , Kugathasan Subra , Jegga Anil G , Dillman Jonathan R , Denson Lee A
Published: January 2021

Background

Transmural healing (TH) is associated with better long-term outcomes in Crohn disease (CD), whereas pretreatment ileal gene signatures encoding myeloid inflammatory responses and extracellular matrix production are associated with stricturing. We aimed to develop a predictive model for ileal TH and to identify ileal genes and microbes associated with baseline luminal narrowing (LN), a precursor to strictures.

Materials and Methods

Baseline small bowel imaging obtained in the RISK pediatric CD cohort study was graded for LN. Ileal gene expression was determined by RNASeq, and the ileal microbial community composition was characterized using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Clinical, demographic, radiologic, and genomic variables were tested for association with baseline LN and future TH.

Results

After controlling for ileal location, baseline ileal LN (odds ratio [OR], 0.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.1-0.8), increasing serum albumin (OR, 4; 95% CI, 1.3-12.3), and anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies IgG serology (OR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.95-1) were associated with subsequent TH. A multivariable regression model including these factors had excellent discriminant power for TH (area under the curve, 0.86; positive predictive value, 80%; negative predictive value, 87%). Patients with baseline LN exhibited increased Enterobacteriaceae and inflammatory and extracellular matrix gene signatures, coupled with reduced levels of butyrate-producing commensals and a respiratory electron transport gene signature. Taxa including Lachnospiraceae and the genus Roseburia were associated with increased respiratory and decreased inflammatory gene signatures, and Aggregatibacter and Blautia bacteria were associated with reduced extracellular matrix gene expression.

Conclusions

Pediatric patients with CD with LN at diagnosis are less likely to achieve TH. The association between specific microbiota, wound healing gene programs, and LN may suggest future therapeutic targets.
Analysis of α-Tocopherol Stereoisomers in Fortified Infant Formula by Chiral Chromatography
Authors: Gill Brendon D. , Wood Jackie E. , Indyk Harvey E.
Published: January 2021

Background

Direct measurement of the bioavailable α-tocopherol content presents a significant analytical challenge and requires chiral separation of the α-tocopherol stereoisomers.

Objective

The objective of the study was to validate an analytical method for the analysis of α-tocopherol stereoisomers in infant formulas and dairy products.

Method

Samples were saponified at elevated temperature and lipophilic components were extracted into an organic solvent, with subsequent chromatographic separation of the α-tocopherol stereoisomers achieved by HPLC with a chiral column and fluorescence detection.

Results

The method was shown to be accurate, with spike recoveries of 91.9–108.8% for RRR-α-tocopherol and 90.1–104.7% for α-tocopherol, with no statistical bias against NIST 1849a certified reference material (P-value = 0.54) and an HPLC-UV analytical method (P-value = 0.48). Acceptable precision was confirmed, with repeatabilities estimated at 3.5% RSDr (HorRat = 0.6) for RRR-α-tocopherol and 4.6% RSDr (HorRat = 0.4) for α-tocopherol.

Conclusions

A straightforward chiral chromatographic method for the analysis of stereoisomeric forms of α-tocopherol is described. In a single analytical run, the method can quantify: (i) the total α-tocopherol content; (ii) the nutritionally important RRR-α-tocopherol and/or 2 R, 4′-ambo, 8′-ambo-α-tocopherol contents; (iii) the amount of all-rac-α-tocopherol, all-rac-α-tocopheryl acetate, or all-rac-α-tocopheryl succinate fortified into the product.

Highlights

An accurate and precise chiral chromatographic method for the analysis of isomeric forms of α-tocopherol is described. The method is able to distinguish between natural and synthetic tocopherol sources. The method is accurate and precise and is suitable either for routine product compliance testing during product manufacture or as a possible reference method.
Genetic parameter estimation for beef bull semen attributes
Authors: Butler Madison L , Hartman Ashley R , Bormann Jennifer M , Weaber Robert L , Grieger David M , Rolf Megan M
Published: January 2021

Improvements in bull reproductive performance are necessary to optimize the efficiency of cattle production. Female fertility has been enhanced through assisted reproductive technologies as well as genetic selection; however, improving beef bull fertility has been largely ignored. Phenotypes routinely collected at bull semen collection facilities are believed to affect fertility and provide the phenotypes necessary for a genetic evaluation. The first objective of this study was to determine the significant fixed effects for modeling beef bull fertility using data from bull semen collection facilities. The second objective was to estimate variance components, heritabilities, repeatabilities, and correlations between beef bull semen attributes. Beef bull fertility phenotypes including volume (VOL), concentration (CONC), number of spermatozoa (NSP), initial motility (IMot), post-thaw motility (PTMot), 3-h post-thaw motility (3HRPTMot), percentage of normal spermatozoa (%NORM), primary abnormalities (PRIM), and secondary abnormalities (SEC) were obtained from two bull semen collection facilities. A total of 1,819 Angus bulls with 50,624 collection records were analyzed. Of the fixed class and covariate effects tested, the significant class effects were collection location and collection day within year and the significant covariate effects included age at collection, days since previous collection, and cumulative comprehensive climate index (CCI). For this study, the CCI was calculated for a 75-d period including the 61-d spermatogenesis cycle and 14-d epididymal transit time. The 75 d prior to collection accounted for the environmental stress a bull may have experienced over the course of development of the spermatozoa, which was more significant than the CCI calculated for collection day or spermatogenesis start date. Pre-thaw beef bull semen traits had low heritability estimates of 0.11 ± 0.02 (VOL), 0.09 ± 0.02 (CONC), 0.08 ± 0.02 (NSP), and 0.12 ± 0.03 (IMot). Heritabilities of post-thaw beef bull semen attributes were more variable at 0.10 ± 0.02 (PTMot), 0.05 ± 0.04 (3HRPTMot), 0.10 ± 0.04 (%NORM), 0.03 ± 0.03 (PRIM), and 0.18 ± 0.04 (SEC). Correlations of breeding values for these traits with scrotal circumference (SC) expected progeny difference (EPD) are low. The low to moderate heritability estimates indicate that genetic improvement can be made in beef bull semen quality traits if new tools are developed to augment the scrotal circumference EPD that are currently available within the industry.
Balancing ‘the International’ and ‘the Domestic’
Authors: Mayans-Hermida Beatriz E , Holá Barbora
Published: January 2021

As the cornerstone of the International Criminal Court (ICC), the principle of complementarity provides that states have the primary responsibility to investigate and prosecute international crimes, and only when they are inactive, unwilling or unable to genuinely investigate and prosecute the ICC may exercise its jurisdiction. However, the relevance of sentences and sanctions, their severity and modalities in the complementarity assessment (CA) is still ambiguous. Some scholars argue for sentences to play a role in the CA but do not elaborate on what an inadequate sanction is and how it can justify the ICC pre-empting a national prosecution. Others mainly focus on pardons or blanket amnesties, without addressing reduced or alternative sentences developed in the framework of peace negotiations. The existing gap may stall or complicate peace processes in post-conflict situations under the jurisdiction of the ICC where alternative sanctions can be the only viable way to reach an agreement between the warring parties. This article focuses on the role that sentences can play in the CA according to the Rome Statute, on what are the standards on adequacy of sentences/sanctions for international crimes, and analyses how alternative sanctions designed in transitional contexts can play out in such an assessment.
Suicidal acid ingestion leading to gastric outlet obstruction treated by early definitive surgery—case report
Authors: Almalki Mutlaq , Yaseen Waed , Althobaiti Shatha
Published: January 2021

Chemical ingestions can cause acute injury to the oesophagus, stomach, pylorus, duodenum and sometimes other organs after ingestion of corrosives, but it may be as late as 1 year after ingestion. A 30-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department with sudden epigastric abdominal pain after flash material ingestion. Computed tomography of abdomen showed signs of small bowel obstruction associated with segmental small bowel ischaemic changes. Postoperatively, patient developed an intolerance to oral intake with upper gastrointestinal scope showing sever stricture at the distal gastric lumen and pylorus. The patient was taken to the operation where gastrojejunostomy and brown procedure was done. Corrosive gastric injury treatment depends on the degree of gastric involvement, related oesophageal strictures and the patient’s general health. Early surgery offers very satisfactory and physiological results, whereas avoiding gastric resection or bypass provides very satisfactory and physiological outcomes.
Mapping information and identifying disinformation based on digital humanities methods: From accuracy to plasticity
Authors: Longhi Julien
Published: January 2021

The subject of Fake News has recently become very popular, with many articles, reports, and even academic events taking up this subject. However, media coverage remains generally quite superficial and the topic is often approached from the viewpoint of the ‘accuracy’ of the information. In this article, I would like to highlight the discursive dimension, which I believe to be crucial when looking at Fake News. I will therefore seek to approach this issue not from a true/false perspective, but rather by considering the processes of turning information into discourse, of handling and constructing social reality or referents. To this end, I shall first outline the contribution that the digital humanities can make to the analysis of meaning in corpora, and the way in which they can provide a means to objectively access interpretative processes within the information conveyed.
Parental Adherence to Home Activities in Early Intervention for Young Children With Delayed Motor Development
Authors: Gmmash Afnan S , Effgen Susan K , Skubik-Peplaski Camille , Lane Justin D
Published: January 2021

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between characteristics of home activities and coaching practices with the adherence of parents of children with motor delays to home activities provided by physical therapists and occupational therapists in early intervention.

Methods

An online survey study was developed and distributed to physical therapists and occupational therapists across the United States. A survey flier was posted online in parent support groups, physical and occupational therapy groups, newsletters, and organizations supporting parents of children with disabilities.

Results

A total of 720 respondents participated in the survey, and 446 participants from 49 states met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Parents indicated that physical therapists and occupational therapists applied the 5 coaching practices (joint planning, observation, practice, reflection, and feedback). However, parents (63%) reported more time was needed on coaching. Parents stated that therapists’ modeling the activities was the most helpful teaching technique that enhanced their adherence to home activities. Coaching practices, appropriateness of the home activities to daily routines and home environment, provision of home activities enjoyed by the child, and parent self-efficacy were all significantly associated with adherence to home activities.

Conclusions

Parents’ adherence to home activities is affected not only by the type of coaching used by the therapists but also by the characteristics of the home activities provided for young children with delayed motor development.

Impact

The results of this study provide additional evidence supporting individualization of home activities to promote parents’ continuous provision of learning opportunities to promote their children’s development. There was also support of the therapists’ use of the 5 coaching practices in early intervention to support the parent’s application of home activities when the therapists are not present.

Lay Summary

This study explored the use of home activities from the parents’ perspective and provided valuable recommendations to therapists to improve parents’ adherence to the recommended home activities in early intervention.
Silicon’s Role in Plant Stress Reduction and Why This Element Is Not Used Routinely for Managing Plant Health
Authors: Zellner Wendy , Tubaña Brenda , Rodrigues Fabrício A. , Datnoff Lawrence E.
Published: January 2021

Numerous reviews and hundreds of refereed articles have been published on silicon’s effects on abiotic and biotic stress as well as overall plant growth and development. The science for silicon is well-documented and comprehensive. However, even with this robust body of information, silicon is still not routinely used for alleviating plant stress and promoting plant growth and development. What is holding producers and growers back from using silicon? There are several possible reasons, which include: (i) lack of consistent information on which soil orders are low or limited in silicon, (ii) no universally accepted soil test for gauging the amounts of soluble silicon have been calibrated for many agronomic or horticultural crops, (iii) most analytical laboratories do not routinely assay plant tissue for silicon and current standard tissue digestion procedures used would render silicon insoluble, (iv) many scientists still state that plants are either silicon accumulators or non-accumulators when in reality all plants accumulate some silicon in their plant tissues, (v) silicon is not recognized as being necessary for plant development, (vi) lack of economic studies to show the benefits of applying silicon, and (vii) lack of extension outreach to present the positive benefits of silicon to producers and growers. Many of these issues mentioned above will need to be resolved if silicon is to become a standard practice to improve agronomic and horticultural crop production and plant health.
Translating Evidence Into Practice Through Knowledge Implementation
Authors: Campione Elizabeth , Wampler-Kuhn Meredith , Fisher Mary Insana
Published: January 2021

It is well established that it can take upward of 20 years to implement research findings into clinical practice. Research findings do not always translate well into the clinical environment for a number of reasons including organizational/individual resistance to change, disruption in workflow, lack of intervention adaptability, and the complexity of patients in the rehabilitation setting. Physical therapists will benefit from an understanding of implementation science (IS) in order to optimize the integration of evidence-based practices (EBPs) into the clinical setting. Implementation science focuses on how interventions work in real settings, how to improve them, and how to sustain them. It provides a framework for identifying barriers and facilitators to the uptake of the desired behavior and engages stakeholders of multiple levels into the process. Two frameworks, the Knowledge-to-Action framework and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, are presented to provide guidance to clinicians and researchers in oncology rehabilitation who are interested in embarking upon IS projects. A hybrid version of the 2 frameworks is proposed with the aim of providing stakeholders with stronger and targeted tools to increase the likelihood of successful implementation of EBP. The purpose of this perspective is to describe IS, key frameworks, and strategies of knowledge implementation and to identify barriers and facilitators to implementation of contemporary research into clinical practices. The secondary purpose of this article is to demonstrate its application for the Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy.
Neonatal Anthropometric Measures and Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Depth
Authors: Armbruster Debra , Slaughter Jonathan , Stenger Michael , Warren Patrick
Published: January 2021

Background:

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are used routinely in neonatal care. Measures of surface anatomy have been used to estimate appropriate PICC depth in neonates since 1973. However, prior PICC research using anthropometric measures to estimate proper PICC insertion depth has been limited to pediatric and adult literature.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships among a neonate's anthropometric measures and the appropriate PICC insertion depth.

Methods:

Neonates requiring PICC insertion at Nationwide Children's Hospital were enrolled between January and September 2018. Standard PICC procedures were followed. The research group corroborated appropriate PICC tip position of enrolled infants. Multivariable linear regression with robust standard errors was used to evaluate linear relationships between PICC insertion depth and current weight, current length, and PICC insertion site.

Results:

Demographics of enrolled infants included gestational ages of 23 to 39 weeks, weights of 510 to 3870 g, and lengths of 31 to 54 cm. Of the 56 infants considered, final statistical analysis included 49 neonates (14 ankle, 16 knee, and 19 antecubital insertions). Current neonatal weight was associated with PICC depth at all sites (all Ps < .0001). Current neonatal length was associated with PICC depth at all sites (all Ps < .0001). Preprocedure surface measurement was also strongly associated with PICC insertion depth (P < .0001).

Implications for Practice:

This investigation demonstrated a relationship for both neonatal weight and length that may be an anthropometric model for neonatal PICC insertion depth.

Implications for Research:

A more robust sample size could more precisely define the anthropometric model.
The Effect of a Continuous Milk Warming System on Weight Gain in Very Low Birth-Weight Infants
Authors: Bedwell Susan M. , Buster Barbara , Sekar Krishnamurthy
Published: January 2021

Background:

Few studies support the practice of warming human milk before feeding. No studies have compared the method of warming milk and its effect on growth, particularly in preterm infants.

Purpose:

To evaluate growth in preterm infants receiving continuously warmed human milk as compared with infants receiving human milk warmed in a hot water bath before feeding.

Methods:

Forty-four infants less than 32 weeks' gestation admitted to a regional referral level IV neonatal intensive care unit in south central United States were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (continuous warming: n = 22) or the control group (hot water bath: n =22) for 10 days. All infants were on full human milk feedings (120-130 kcal/kg/d) as part of a standardized feeding protocol. Tolerance and weight gain over the 10-day period were used to evaluate the effectiveness of continuous milk warming.

Results:

There was a significant difference in weight gain for infants receiving continuously warmed milk compared with infants receiving standard warmed milk (203.73 ± 70.71 vs 271.95 ± 67.40, P = .002).

Implications for Practice:

The use of continuous milk warming improves weight gain in very low birth-weight infants.
A Cross-sectional Survey of Enteral Feeding Tube Placement and Gastric Residual Aspiration Practices
Authors: Perumbil Pathrose Sheeja , Spence Kaye , Taylor Christine , Psalia Kim , Schmied Virginia , Dahlen Hannah , Badawi Nadia , Gregory Katherine , Peters Karen , Foster Jann
Published: January 2021

Background:

Preterm infants routinely require enteral feeding via nasogastric or orogastric tubes as an alternative to oral feeding to meet their nutritional needs. Anecdotal evidence suggests variations in practice related to correct tube placement and assessment of feed intolerance.

Purpose:

To determine the current practices of enteral feeding tube placement confirmation and gastric residual (GR) aspiration of neonatal clinicians in Australia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional online survey comprising 24 questions was distributed to nursing and medical health professionals working in Australian neonatal care units through 2 e-mail listservs made available by professional organizations.

Findings:

The survey was completed by 129 clinicians. A single method was practiced by 50% of the clinicians in confirming tube placement, and most common practice was assessing the pH of GR aspirate. The majority of respondents (96%) reported that they relied on GR aspiration and clinical signs to determine feeding tolerance and subsequent decisions such as ceasing or decreasing feeds. However, the frequency of aspiration, the amount and color of aspirate considered to be normal/abnormal, and decisions on whether to replace gastric aspirate or whether aspiration should be performed during continuous tube feeding varied.

Implication for practice:

This study demonstrated considerable variability in clinical practice for enteral feeding tube placement confirmation and GR aspiration despite most respondents reporting using a unit-based clinical practice guideline. Our study findings highlight the need for not only developing evidence-based practice guidelines for safe and consistent clinical practice but also ensuring that these guidelines are followed by all clinicians.

Implication for research:

Further research is needed to establish evidence-based methods both for enteral feeding tube placement confirmation and for the assessment of feeding intolerance during tube feeding. In addition, the reasons why evidence-based methods are not followed must be investigated.
A Simple Technique for Pinning Distal Phalanx Fractures in the Emergency Department Setting
Authors: Burr Rebecca G. , Burnham Robert R. , Fishman Felicity G.
Published: January 2021

Fractures and dislocations involving the distal phalanx are frequently treated with immobilization, however particular injury patterns warrant additional stabilization. We describe a technique to stabilize fractures of the distal phalanx using an 18- or 20-G hypodermic needle in the emergency department setting. The technique is cost and time efficient with minimal early complications.
Arthroscopic Treatment of Femoroacetabular Impingement: Rim Trim to Closed Capsule
Authors: Raji Yazdan , Vakharia Ajit M. , Trivedi Nikunj N. , Su Charles A. , Salata Michael J.
Published: January 2021

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) has been the focus of much investigation, which has inherently led to an improvement in understanding of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and surgical management of this condition. Over the last decade, hip arthroscopy has become the preferred form of surgical management for FAI with the advancement in arthroscopic technology. In this review, the arthroscopic surgical technique to address acetabular rim, labrum, and capsule are described. Furthermore, current evidence and recent advancements in the arthroscopic approach for FAI are evaluated.
Distally Cemented Modified Hackethal’s Technique in the Management of Humeral Shaft Fractures, Surgical Technique, and Preliminary Results
Authors: Darwish Mohammad , Tannous Ziad , Saidy Elias , Ayoubi Rami , Maalouly Joseph , Wehbe Joseph
Published: January 2021

Introduction:

In 1961, Hackethal has introduced the use of multiple stacked flexible intramedullary (IM) rods in the treatment of humeral shaft fractures which is a minimally invasive method, that allowed optimal reduction with the use of IM fixation, opting for biological healing. However, this technique has several limitations that include little control over rotational stability, shortening, pin migration, and irritation of the triceps.

Materials and Methods:

In this paper, we present our modification of the classic Hackethal’s surgical technique by adding cement distally, thus making it a locked IM construct.

Results:

Preliminary results in 8 patients who underwent modified Hackethal’s technique are presented in this paper. This technique shows promising preliminary results at the level of healing, range of motion, rate of complications, cost reduction, and ease of removal of the material.

Discussion:

This modification allows better and more control in terms of rotation and shortening, especially in comminuted fractures. It also eliminates the risk of pin migration and triceps irritation, with ability to mobilize the shoulder and elbow immediately postoperatively (postop) compared with prolonged immobilization by the classic technique. These factors lead to a better postop function of the elbow and shoulder in addition to a faster recovery and return to activity. To note, the cost of this procedure is very low compared with plate fixation and other IM techniques. This surgical technique is used in patients who are not candidates for conservative treatment, and whose health care plan does not financially cover the cost of plate osteosynthesis or intramedullary nailing. This modified technique is highly cost-efficient, and it emerges as a viable treatment option in selected cases in third world countries, where the luxury of using expensive orthopedic implants is not accessible for many patients.
Intramedullary Delivery of Local Antibiotics Via Calcium Sulfate Beads for Chronic Osteomyelitis With a Simple, Novel Surgical Technique
Authors: Lex Johnathan R. , Toor Jay S. , Spurr Hayley E.M. , Cloutier Jean-Philippe , Kreder Hans J.
Published: January 2021

Aim:

The aim of this manuscript was to describe a novel surgical technique that can be used intraoperatively to aid in the management of chronic diaphyseal osteomyelitis through the delivery of antibiotics into the medullary canal.

Technique:

Following standard intramedullary and reamer irrigator aspirator preparation of the femoral canal, a negative-pressure gradient is created through the canal. A 32-Fr chest tube is placed antegrade down the femur and used as a conduit for delivering antibiotic beads. A 20-Fr chest tube can be used to manually piston the beads further down the canal.

Uses, Outcomes, and Pitfalls:

This technique can be used to administer prefabricated calcium sulfate antibiotic beads or hand-made antibiotic polymethylmethacrylate beads evenly throughout the medullary canal of long-bones. It is a simple, cost-effective, one-surgery solution to assist clinicians when managing patients presenting with this difficult problem.