bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic polymorphism Harmonia axiridis Pall. of invasive species on the territory of the cultivation of the Greater Chernykhychyan of the Sumy district of Sumsky area
Authors: Toryanik V. M. , Mironets L. P.
Published: March 2020

Aim. The features of phenotypic polymorphism Harmonia axyridis Pall. were studied. in the form of a pronotum and an imago elder as an invasive species on the territory of the village of Velyka Chernecha Sumy region of the Sumy region. Methods. The collection of the imago for two years was carried out manually using the route survey method in three directions (southern, southwest, and southeast) from the village center. Phenotypes were allocated according to the classification A.V. Blekhman. Distribution and analysis of phenomorphs on the drawing of the pronotum and the elite of the imago were carried out according to the classification of O.Yu. Kruglova. Results. The presence of 3 phenotypes Harmonia axyridis Pall. in the village is established: succinea, spectabilis, conspicua. According to the projitum and the elite of the imago, 14 and 22 phenoforms were detected, respectively. Conclusions. In the territory of the village of Velyka Chernecchina, there is a pronounced phenotypic variability of Harmonia axyridis Pall. according to the sketches of the pronotum and the imago elite, indicating the presence in the population of microevolutionary processes with a tendency to survive the phenophores with adaptations to stressful environmental factors, probably, it is possible to forecast forming of stable populyaciy of Harmonia axyridis Pall. on territory of the Sumy district.Keywords: Harmonia axyridis Pall., pronotum, elites, phenotypic variability.
Genetic profiling of bacteria belongs to genus Pseudomonas, what affects legumes
Authors: Dankevich L. A.
Published: March 2020

Aim. For the purpose of correct inter species identification and estimation of group’s heterogeneity, the genome fingerprinting of isolated by us and collection "Pseudomonas lupini" strains as well as typical representative of genus, affecting legumes, has been carried out. Methods. In the course of research, microbiological, molecular genetic (REP-PCR) methods and method of molecular phylogenetics (UPGMA) were used. Results. The genetic heterogeneity of isolated and collections "Pseudomonas lupini" strains has been estimated. A relationship between isolated and collections "Pseudomonas lupini" strains with the typical Pseudomonas syringae strains, affecting legumes, for BOX, REP and ERIC profiles has been determined. Conclusions. BOX, ERIC and REP-profiling of the genome of the agent of lupines’ brown spottiness revealed significant genetic heterogeneity of its population (from 20 to 50 % of heterogeneity) and close similarity of this pathogen to representatives of the species Pseudomonas syringae.Keywords: identification, genetic heterogeneity, REP-PCR, causative agent of lupines’ brown spottiness.
Expression profiling of kinesins, involved in the development of autophagy in Arabidopsis thaliana, and the role of tubulin acetylation in the interaction of Atg8 protein with microtubules
Authors: Olenieva V. D. , Lytvyn D. I. , Yemets A. I. , Blume Ya. B.
Published: March 2020

Aim. To investigate the interrelation between changes in the expression levels of kinesin genes that are potentially involved in the development of stress-induced autophagy in Arabidopsis thaliana by means of microtubules, and the structural biology analysis of the role of α-tubulin acetylation in the regulation of interaction of α-tubulin with Atg8. Methods. The simulation of the influence of abiotic stresses. PCR analysis of changes in expression levels of kinesin genes. The molecular dynamics simulations of α-tubulin and Atg8 complexes were performed using the GROMACS 4.5.5 program. Results. It was shown that the changes in expression levels were caused by the influence of stressful stimuli. A significant increase in the transcriptional activity of the KIN5B, KIN12B, KIN12F genes after UV-B irradiation, the KIN6, KIN7O, KIN7D, KIN12B genes under osmotic-, and KIN6, KIN12B under salt stress was detected. By means of bioinformatics it was demonstrated that α-tubulin acetylation provides an enhanced interaction of α-tubulin and Atg8 protein. Conclusions. Obtained data point out the important role of kinesins and α-tubulin acetylation in realization of microtubules’ partaking in the development of stress-induced autophagy in plants.

Keywords: microtubules, α-tubulin, kinesins, Atg8 protein, stress-induced autophagy.
Studying the polymorphism of the gene MDP0000151428 among the varieties and species of apples
Authors: Urbanovich O. Yu. , Kuzmitskaya P. V.
Published: March 2020

Aim. The aim of this work was to study the variability of the gene MDP0000151428, which belongs to the DREB family, among varieties of different genetic origin, which have different resistance to cold. Methods. Polymorphism was analyzed by PCR and sequencing. Results. Cloning and sequencing of the gene MDP0000151428 from 18 varieties and species of apple with different levels of resistance to cold have been carried out. An assessment of the variability of its primary structure showed the presence of point mutations. Most of them were single nucleotide substitutions, in one case a single nucleotide deletion was observed. The degree of sequence identity ranged from 97.5 % to 100 %. Conclusions. Evaluation of polymorphism of gene length MDP0000151428 showed that it is quite conservative and does not carry extended insertions or deletions in 20 varieties and species of apple trees with different levels of resistance to cold. The analysis showed that the frequency of occurrence of mutations in different sites of the gene MDP0000151428 differs. The nucleotides in 138, 341 and 472 positions are most susceptible to mutations. Comparison of hypothetical amino acid sequences showed the presence of separate substitutions. Most often they occur in 114 and 158 positions.

Keywords: apple tree, gene MDP0000151428, transcription factors, resistance to cold.
Photoperiodic sensitivity and Ppd-1 genotypes of bread wheat alternative varieties
Authors: Fait V. I. , Hubich O. Yu. , Balashova I. A.
Published: March 2020

Aim. Study the reaction to photoperiod and identify Ppd-1 genotypes of modern alternative bread wheat varieties of various geographical origins. Methods. Plants growing under reduced and prolonged days, hybridological analysis of photoperiodic sensitivity of semi-diallelic F2 hybrids, calculations of average values, their errors and c2, multiplex STS-PCR with specific primers to the Ppd-D1 gene. Results. The phenotypic and genotype differences were detected, Ppd-1 genotypes of 10 alternative bread wheat varieties of different geographical origins were found. Conclusions. Afina, Palada, Solomia, Shestopalivka, Yara, Demir 2000, L897J23 varieties slowly or average react to reduce of day duration because of gene Ppd-D1a presence in their genotypes. Lastivka, Khutorianka, Zumoiarka varieties are highly photoperiodic sensitive genotypes and carriers of Ppd-1 genes recessive alleles only. From this view point, these three varieties correspond to the criteria of "typical alternative varieties".

Keywords: wheat, alternative varieties, photoperiodic sensitivity, DNA markers, gene, Ppd-1.
Uneven distribution of Y-chromosome haplogroups in the regional populations of ukrainians
Authors: Utevska O. M. , Atramentova L. A.
Published: March 2020

Aim. The aim was to compare the frequency spectra of Y chro mosome haplogroups among Ukrainians from different regions, identify atypical populations and determine their characteristics. Methods. A sample of Ukrainians (n = 1141) from 12 regions of Ukraine was investigated. DNA samples were genotyped by the SNP markers of the Y chromosome. The frequencies of Y chromosome haplogroups for the regions were compared using the χ2 and F tests. Results. Differences between regions in the haplogroup frequency distribution were determined, atypical populations were detected, and the features of their Y-chromosome spectrum were studied. Conclusions. Lviv and Rivne samples were the closest to frequencies of Y-chromosome haplogroups averaged for Ukraine. The highest specificity was found in samples from Khmelnitska (R-M198(×M458) high frequency, R-M458 low frequency), Zaporozhska (E-M78 absence) and Chernigov (R-M458 high frequency, R-M198(×M458) low frequency) regions.

Keywords: Y-chromosome, haplogroup, Ukrainians, gene pool.
Academician Andriy Opanasovich Sapegin (to birthday 135 anniversary)
Authors: Pidpala O. V. , Kunakh V. A.
Published: March 2020

The main biographical data on the life and creative path of Academician AO Sapevin – an outstanding scientist, talented teacher and organizer of science, the pioneer of the leading areas of genetics and selection.Keywords: A.O. Sapegin, genetics, selection, history of science.
Visjoner, reform og realiteter: anmeldelse av og kommentarer til Verdens bedste politi. Politireformen i Danmark 2007-2011 Av Flemming Balvig, Lars Holmberg og Maria Pi Højlund Nielsen
Authors: Myhrer Tor-Geir , Thomassen Gunnar , Strype Jon
Published: March 2020

Review of: Visjoner, reform og realiteter: anmeldelse av og kommentarer til Verdens bedste politi. Politireformen i Danmark 2007-2011 Av Flemming Balvig, Lars Holmberg og Maria Pi Højlund Nielsen
Voldsudsatte kvinner og deres erfaringer med politiet
Authors: Aas Geir
Published: March 2020

See abstract in article.
Møtested for Straff og Velferd. Rusmestringsavdelinger i fengsel, ansattes syn.
Authors: Giertsen Hedda , Rua Marte
Published: March 2020

See abstract in article.
Kriminalitetens eksistens – fortegnet opprydding
Authors: Olaussen Leif Petter
Published: March 2020

See abstract in article.
Stofbehandling og nye institutionelle identiteter i danske fængsler
Authors: Kolind Torsten , Frank Vibeke Asmussen , Holm Karina
Published: March 2020

See abstract in article.
Tilregnelighet og utilregnelighet: begreper og regler
Authors: Gröning Linda
Published: March 2020

See abstract in article.
Patrik Törnudd (1935-2015) in memoriam
Authors: Lahti Raimo
Published: March 2020

N/A.
Ny litteratur
Authors: Redaktionen -
Published: March 2020

En oversigt over ny litteratur for 2015/16.
Tilsvar till replikk om rettsbevissthetsundersøkelsene
Authors: Olaussen Leif Petter
Published: March 2020

See abstract in article.
Can education be personalised using pupils’ genetic data?
Authors: Morris Tim T , Davies Neil M , Davey Smith George
Published: March 2020

The increasing predictive power of polygenic scores for education has led to their promotion by some as a potential tool for genetically informed policy. How accurately polygenic scores predict an individual pupil's educational performance conditional on other phenotypic data is however not well understood. Using data from a UK cohort study with data linkage to national schooling records, we investigated how accurately polygenic scores for education predicted pupils’ test score achievement. We also assessed the performance of polygenic scores over and above phenotypic data that are available to schools. Across our sample, there was high overlap between the polygenic score and achievement distributions, leading to poor predictive accuracy at the individual level. Prediction of educational outcomes from polygenic scores were inferior to those from parental socioeconomic factors. Conditional on prior achievement, polygenic scores failed to accurately predict later achievement. Our results suggest that while polygenic scores can be informative for identifying group level differences, they currently have limited use for accurately predicting individual educational performance or for personalised education.
Fatal amyloid formation in a patient’s antibody light chain is caused by a single point mutation
Authors: Kazman Pamina , Vielberg Marie-Theres , Pulido Cendales María Daniela , Hunziger Lioba , Weber Benedikt , Hegenbart Ute , Zacharias Martin , Köhler Rolf , Schönland Stefan , Groll Michael , Buchner Johannes
Published: March 2020

In systemic light chain amyloidosis, an overexpressed antibody light chain (LC) forms fibrils which deposit in organs and cause their failure. While it is well-established that mutations in the LC’s VL domain are important prerequisites, the mechanisms which render a patient LC amyloidogenic are ill-defined. In this study, we performed an in-depth analysis of the factors and mutations responsible for the pathogenic transformation of a patient-derived λ LC, by recombinantly expressing variants in E. coli. We show that proteolytic cleavage of the patient LC resulting in an isolated VL domain is essential for fibril formation. Out of 11 mutations in the patient VL, only one, a leucine to valine mutation, is responsible for fibril formation. It disrupts a hydrophobic network rendering the C-terminal segment of VL more dynamic and decreasing domain stability. Thus, the combination of proteolytic cleavage and the destabilizing mutation trigger conformational changes that turn the LC pathogenic.
Uptake and toxicity of clothianidin to monarch butterflies from milkweed consumption
Authors: Bargar Timothy A. , Hladik Michelle L. , Daniels Jaret C.
Published: March 2020

Recent concern for the adverse effects from neonicotinoid insecticides has centered on risk for insect pollinators in general and bees specifically. However, natural resource managers are also concerned about the risk of neonicotinoids to conservation efforts for the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) and need additional data to help estimate risk for wild monarch butterflies exposed to those insecticides. In the present study, monarch butterfly larvae were exposed in the laboratory to clothianidin via contaminated milkweed plants from hatch until pupation, and the effects upon larval survival, larval growth, pupation success, and adult size were measured. Soils dosed with a granular insecticide product led to mean clothianidin concentrations of 10.8–2,193 ng/g in milkweed leaves and 5.8–58.0 ng/g in larvae. Treatment of soils also led to clothianidin concentrations of 2.6–5.1 ng/g in adult butterflies indicating potential for transfer of systemic insecticides from the soil through plants and larvae to adult butterflies. Estimated LC50s for total mortality (combined mortality of larvae and pupae) and EC50 for larval growth were variable but higher than the majority of concentrations reported in the literature for clothianidin contamination of leaves.
Characterisation of GLUT4 trafficking in HeLa cells: comparable kinetics and orthologous trafficking mechanisms to 3T3-L1 adipocytes
Authors: Morris Silke , Geoghegan Niall D. , Sadler Jessica B.A. , Koester Anna M. , Black Hannah L. , Laub Marco , Miller Lucy , Heffernan Linda , Simpson Jeremy C. , Mastick Cynthia C. , Cooper Jon , Gadegaard Nikolaj , Bryant Nia J. , Gould Gwyn W.
Published: March 2020

Insulin-stimulated glucose transport is a characteristic property of adipocytes and muscle cells and involves the regulated delivery of glucose transporter (GLUT4)-containing vesicles from intracellular stores to the cell surface. Fusion of these vesicles results in increased numbers of GLUT4 molecules at the cell surface. In an attempt to overcome some of the limitations associated with both primary and cultured adipocytes, we expressed an epitope- and GFP-tagged version of GLUT4 (HA–GLUT4–GFP) in HeLa cells. Here we report the characterisation of this system compared to 3T3-L1 adipocytes. We show that insulin promotes translocation of HA–GLUT4–GFP to the surface of both cell types with similar kinetics using orthologous trafficking machinery. While the magnitude of the insulin-stimulated translocation of GLUT4 is smaller than mouse 3T3-L1 adipocytes, HeLa cells offer a useful, experimentally tractable, human model system. Here, we exemplify their utility through a small-scale siRNA screen to identify GOSR1 and YKT6 as potential novel regulators of GLUT4 trafficking in human cells.
ClpP regulates breast cancer cell proliferation, invasion and apoptosis by modulating the Src/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway
Authors: Luo Juan , Zeng Beilei , Tao Chunfang , Lu Mengqi , Ren Guosheng
Published: March 2020

Background

Caseinolytic protease P (ClpP), which is located on the inner mitochondrial membrane, degrades mitochondrial proteins damaged by oxidative stress. The role of ClpP varies among tumor types. However, the expression pattern and biological functions of ClpP in breast cancer (BC) have not yet been investigated.

Methods

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Kaplan Meier-plotter database were used to analyze the expression level of ClpP in BC tissues, relationships with clinicopathological characteristics, and the influence on the prognosis of BC. Protein and mRNA expression levels of ClpP in BC cell lines and tissues were detected by quantitative real-time PCR, western blot and immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses. The colony formation assay, transwell assay and flow cytometric analysis were performed to assess various functions of ClpP. Western blot analysis was also conducted to determine the mechanism of ClpP.

Results

ClpP expression was markedly increased in BC cells and tissues. High expression of ClpP was significantly correlated with the T stage, estrogen receptor (ER) expression, and poor recurrence-free survival (RFS) in TCGA and Kaplan Meier-plotter database. ClpP silencing significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion, and promoted apoptosis of BC cells, which resulted in suppression of the Src/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The gain-of-function assay confirmed partial these results.
Echocardiographic Findings in HIV Positive Children on Anti-retroviral Therapy Attending Routine Outpatient Infectious Disease Clinics in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria
Authors: Duru Chika O. , Paul Nsirimobu I. , Tunde-Oremodu Immaculata
Published: March 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the echocardiographic findings of stable HIV positive children on Highly Active Anti-retroviral Therapy (HAART) attending routine Paediatric Infectious disease clinics in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.

Methods: Over a 3 month period (1st October to 31st December 2019) 71 apparently stable HIV positive children who had been on HAART for at least 3 months had a transthoracic echocardiogram done after written informed consent. A proforma containing their clinical and socioeconomic information and the echocardiographic findings was filled. Data was entered into an Excel spread sheet and analysed using SPSS 22.0.

Results: Among the 71 children studied, 34 (47.89%) were aged 6 – 10 years, 42 (59.15%) were females while 15 (26.01%) belonged to social class 3. Of the 71 participants studied, forty-four (61.97%) had abnormal echocardiographic findings on echocardiogram. Mild pulmonary regurgitation was the commonest finding and occurred in 32 (45.07%) of the patients. This was followed by Left Ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) which occurred in 9 (12.68%) patients, while Left Ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) and Congenital heart defects occurred in 6 (8.45%) subjects each. There was no significant association between occurrence of echocardiographic findings and age, gender, duration of HIV disease, type of HAART and stage of disease at diagnosis and at the time of the study (p<0.05).

Conclusion: This study shows that mild pulmonary regurgitation is the commonest echocardiographic finding among stable HIV patients followed by left ventricular dysfunction. Routine baseline and intermittent echocardiography are recommended for initial evaluation and continued care for early detection and quick intervention of cardiac diseases of children with HIV disease.
Climate Change: Global Indicators, Socio-economic Implications and Mitigation
Authors: Azunna Daniel E. , Chukwu Godwill U. , Igboekwe Magnus U. , Anyadiegwu Faustinus C.
Published: March 2020

Climate change which is the variation in the climate condition over comparable periods has some indicators like surface temperature, atmospheric carbon and greenhouse gases (GHGs) and ozone layer area. This paper seeks to examine the state of the climate change indicators, their effects and how climate change can be mitigated. A review of data sources and literature reveal that global average temperature has increased more than 0.8ºC above the pre-industrial baseline over the past 100 years with 2016 and 2017 being the warmest years. Fossil carbon emissions also reached up to 41.5 billion tons in 2018. The extent of depletion of the ozone reduced to an area of 24.8x106 km2 in 2018 as against its value of 28.2 x106 km2 and 29.6 x106 km2 in 2015 and 2006 respectively. The effects of climate change on the socio-economic development were identified to include; natural disasters, food insecurity, diseases, human mobility and population displacement. To mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, minimizing our dependence on petroleum and fossil fuels by using cleaner and renewable energy sources, carbon capture and sequestration, proper management of land, forest and the entire ecosystem was highlighted. If these options are explored, climate change will drastically reduce while fostering global economic, environmental and social well-being.
Effect of Various Sources of Zinc and Iron on Grain Yield, Nutrient Uptake and Quality Parameters of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.)
Authors: Kumar E. Ajay , Surekha K. , Rekha K. Bhanu , Sharma S. Harish Kumar
Published: March 2020

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2018 at College Farm, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU to evaluate the effect of various sources of zinc and iron on grain yield, nutrient uptake and grain quality parameters of finger millet. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 14 treatments and replicated thrice.The results revealed that application of different Zinc and iron sources at different rates significantly influenced the grain yield, nutrient (N, P and K) uptake and grain quality parameters (protein and calcium content) of finger millet. Highest grain yield (3653 kg ha-1), protein (11.25%) and calcium content (2.33%) in grain were obtained in the treatment receiving RDF + foliar application of FeSO4 @ 0.5% twice at 30 and 60 DAS which was on par with treatment receiving RDF + foliar application of Fe-humate twice at 30 and 60 DAS (3612 kg ha-1, 10.90% and 2.0%) and the lowest grain yield (1995 kg ha-1), (6.25%) and calcium content (1.10%) were recorded with application of RDF alone. The nutrient uptake (N, P, K and Fe) at all the crop growth stages was significantly higher with the treatment receiving RDF (60:40:30 kg N,P2O5 and K2O kg ha-1) + foliar application of FeSO4 @ 0.5% twice at 30 and 60 DAS which was on par with treatment receiving RDF+ foliar application of Fe-humate twice at 30 and 60 DAS. Highest iron uptake was recorded in treatment receiving RDF+foliar application of FeSO4 @ 0.5% twice at 30 and 60 DAS which was on par with T8, T14 treatments.The highest nutrient uptake of Zinc was obtained in treatment receiving RDF + Zn Humate foliar spray @ 0.25% twice at 30 and 60 days after sowing which was on par with treatment receiving RDF + Zn Humate soil  application. Contrary to the grain yield, nutrient uptake, protein and calcium content there were no significant differences between treatments with respect to Zn, Fe and carbohydrate content in grain.
Impact of Roasting to Total Phenolic, Flavonoid and Antioxidant Activities in Root, Bark and Leaf of Polyscias fruticosa
Authors: Nguyen Minh Phuoc
Published: March 2020

Polyscias fruticosa belongs to Araliaceae family widely cultivated in Vietnam. It is a medical plant highly valued recently owing to its diversified therapeutic functions. It’s exploited in all parts including root, bark and leaf for medicinal purposes. In the herbal tea production, the final step is normally ended with the roasting in order to improve its flavor and aroma. There’s a concern about the detrimental effect of thermal roasting to the stability of phytochemical constituents. In this research, we attempted to evaluate the reduction of total phenolic (mg GAE/100 g), total flavonoid (mg QE/100 g), DPPH radical-scavenging ability (mM TE/100 g), FRAP ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (mM TE/100 g) in root, bark and leaf of Polyscias fruticosa under different roasting conditions. All samples were steamed in vapor for 30 seconds before being dried by convective dryer at 45°C for 6 hours to final moisture content around 12%. Then these samples would be roasted in different conditions (125/15; 130/12, 135/9, 140/6, 145/3, °C/minutes). Our results revealed that roasting at 135/9°C/minutes was appropriate to preserve the most phytochemical constituents.
Fortification of beef burger with the addition of bee pollen from Apis mellifera L.
Authors: Serafini Heldt Leila Fernanda , Pereira Daiane , Souza Bianca Rodrigues , Almeida-Muradian Ligia Bicudo , Teresinha Carpes Solange
Published: March 2020

The effect of adding bee pollen in beef burger on the oxidative stability was investigated. Antioxidant properties, chemical composition and vitamins were also determined. The antioxidant activity of bee pollen by DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical-scavenging and β-carotene-linoleic acid methods were high. The predominant minerals in bee pollen were Mg, followed by Ca, K and Mn. Bee pollen can be considered a rich source of B6 vitamin (4.96 mg/100 g bee pollen) and the concentrations of vitamin B1 and B2 were 0.74 mg/100 g and 0.78 mg/100 g, respectively. Regarding lipid oxidation of beef burgers, assessed by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), it value increased at 2.09 mg malondialdehyde /kg of beef burger after 42 days storage at -12 °C. Beef burgers containing bee pollen extract inhibited 31.78 % of lipid oxidation at the end of the experiment. Thus, the strong anti-oxidative effect and high nutritive value of bee pollen suggests its potential application as natural antioxidant in meat products.
Physical Activity During Pregnancy and Preterm Birth Among Women With Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Gou Wanglong , Xiao Congmei , Liang Xinxiu , Miao Zelei , Shi Meiqi , Wu Yingying , Lu Sha , Wang Xuhong , Fu Yuanqing , Hu Wensheng , Zheng Ju-Sheng
Published: December 2024

Importance

Physical activity, as a modifiable factor, emerges as a primary intervention strategy for the prevention and management of gestational diabetes (GD). Among women with GD, the association of physical activity during pregnancy with preterm birth remains unclear.

Objective

To examine the association of accelerometer-derived physical activity metrics and patterns with preterm birth among women with GD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study recruited pregnant women with GD in Hangzhou, China, from August 2019 to August 2023 as part of the Westlake Precision Birth Cohort study. Statistical analysis was performed between August and November 2023.

Exposures

Wearable accelerometer–derived physical activity metrics and patterns. Measurements of physical activity via wearable accelerometer were performed at a median (IQR) of 25.4 (24.6-26.6) weeks’ gestation.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Preterm birth was determined through the examination of delivery records. Incident preterm birth was defined as the delivery of infants before completing 37 weeks of gestation.

Results

Among the 1427 women meeting the inclusion criteria, the mean (SD) age was 31.3 (3.8) years, and there were 80 cases of preterm birth. An increase in moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and the fraction of physical activity energy expenditure derived from MVPA exhibited an inverse association with preterm birth, with an odds ratio per 30 minutes of 0.64 (95% CI, 0.42-0.98) and an odds ratio per SD of 0.69 (95% CI, 0.55-0.88). In the dose-response analysis, there was a progressive decrease in the odds of preterm birth with increasing duration of MVPA per day, reaching a plateau at approximately 74 minutes per day. Furthermore, the findings indicated that active MVPA (MVPA ≥30 minutes per day), whether it was concentrated into a few days or followed a more regular pattern, had similar beneficial association with preterm birth.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this prospective cohort study, MVPA during pregnancy exhibited an inverse association with preterm birth among women with GD. Concentrated physical activity was associated with similar benefits in reducing preterm birth risk as regular physical activity.
From Damage to Functionality: Remanufacturing of Thrust Roller Bearings by Tailored Forming
Authors: Saure Felix , Pape Florian , Poll Gerhard , Marian Max
Published: December 2024

Axial and radial rolling bearings are critical components in various machines, particularly in large‐scale applications such as mining and heavy machinery. Failures in these bearings can cause significant operational downtime and high replacement costs. Common failure modes include plastic deformation, abrasive wear, insufficient lubrication, and fatigue, necessitating efficient repair strategies. This article investigates the tailored forming process chain for repairing axial bearing washers, focusing on plasma‐transferred arc deposition welding. The repair process involves removing damaged areas, welding, and machining to nominal size. Materials used include a novel alloy and commercially available powders. The repaired bearings undergo rigorous testing, including scanning acoustic microscopy for weld quality assessment and fatigue tests on FE8 test rig. Results indicate that the newly developed alloy exhibits higher fatigue life despite its lower hardness compared to AISI 52100 and AISI 4140 steels. The repaired bearings achieve a service life comparable to new bearings, with the welding process quality significantly impacting longevity. Tribological tests show the new alloy's superior wear resistance, suggesting its potential for extending the service life of repaired bearings. The study concludes that tailored forming processes, combined with optimized welding techniques, can effectively repair rolling bearings, reducing costs and downtime while enhancing performance.
Understanding well‐being and safety for First Nations children and young people in the Riverland—Engaging with metic knowledge via a capability approach
Authors: Jones Michelle , Cantley Luke , Quinn Donna , Quinn Daniel , Rigney Craig , van der Arend Jenny
Published: December 2024

Aboriginal culture is both a strength and a protective factor for Aboriginal children; yet, we continue to see disparities in education, health and well‐being outcomes. To improve outcomes for Aboriginal children and families, local cultural ways of knowing, being and doing need to be incorporated into policy and practice. The strength‐based capability approach draws on the experiences, needs and values of people in context to understand the opportunities and freedoms to be and do what is culturally valued. Adopting a “capability approach,” First Nations peoples from the rural Riverland region of South Australia were involved in culturally safe yarning circles to explore aspirations for their children's well‐being and safety. In doing so, a better appreciation of the personal, social, structural and environmental factors that impinge on the achievement of well‐being and safety was possible. We highlight how a capability approach provides a valuable tool for engaging with and embracing metic knowledge in policymaking and practice. A more meaningful understanding of safety, well‐being and “the good life” in a community is critical for ensuring that policy and practice efforts can be directed in ways that create outcomes desired by Community.
An Enhanced Power Sharing Scheme With Voltage Unbalance and Distortion Compensation in an Islanded AC Microgrid Using CSF‐MPC
Authors: Kumar Uppuluri Ranjith , Chilipi Rajasekharareddy , Mulla Mahmadasraf A.
Published: December 2024

This paper presents an enhanced power sharing scheme (EPSS) for parallelly connected distributed generators (DGs) in an islanded microgrid (MG) using a constant switching frequency‐model predictive control (CSF‐MPC). Unlike conventional droop control, wherein only accurate real power sharing among DGs is possible, the EPSS enables accurate sharing of reactive and harmonic powers even under mismatched line impedances. Additionally, the voltage unbalance and distortion at the point of common coupling (PCC) are mitigated. The EPSS is implemented using a reference voltage that consists of (1) the fundamental droop control; (2) the virtual impedance control; (3) the unbalance compensation control; and (4) the harmonic compensation control. The performance of the EPSS is tested on a MG consisting of two DGs of both similar and dissimilar capacities under a step changes in loads. The EPSS is implemented using CSF‐MPC, which offers superior performance compared with conventional proportional plus integral and proportional resonant controllers. The simulation and hardware‐in‐loop results confirm the effectiveness of the EPSS in addressing power sharing issues and mitigating both distortion and unbalance of PCC voltage.
A 0.41‐μ$$ \boldsymbol{\upmu} $$W Self‐Biased Temperature and Offset‐Compensated Fully Differential Instrumentation Amplifier With 47 mdB/°C Thermal Sensitivity and 425 pVolt/°C Offset Drift
Authors: Mukherjee Koyel , Kumar Pal Rajat , Pandit Soumya
Published: December 2024

A low‐power self‐biased single operational transconductance amplifier (OTA)‐based temperature and offset compensated fully differential instrumentation amplifier (FDIA) is proposed in this article. The design of the FDIA circuit, mainly for low‐frequency applications like wearable bio‐medical instruments, is carried out in SCL 0.18‐m standard CMOS technology. The circuit operates under 0.6V supply voltage. The 43.8dB differential gain of the FDIA demonstrates a maximum variation of 47 mdB/°C for temperature ranging between °C and +48°C with signal‐bandwidth ranging from 0.5 to 1.02 kHz. It also shows a moderately high common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) of 100 dB. A simple offset‐compensation arrangement lowers the offset voltage to only 13 nV which drifts maximum by 425 pV/°C. Operation under sub‐1 V supply voltage, nano‐ampere bias currents, and weak inversion mode of operations of the transistors has effectively restricted the power consumption of the proposed FDIA circuit to less than 500 nW. An optimized layout design of the proposed circuit results in a total silicon area of 0.014 mm.
A two‐stage model for precise identification and Gleason grading of clinically significant prostate cancer: a hybrid approach
Authors: Zou Yuyan , Wang Xuechun , Ma Fen , Liu Xulun , Jiao Chunyue , Kang Zhen , Cui Jingjing , Zhang Yang , Xie Yan , Chen Lei , Tian Ronghua
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Accurate identification and grading of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa, Gleason Score ≥ 7) without invasive procedures remains a significant clinical challenge. This study aims to develop and evaluate a two‐stage model designed for precise Gleason grading. The model initially uses radiomics‐based multiparametric MRI to identify csPCa and then refines the Gleason grading by integrating clinical indicators and radiomics features.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 399 patients with PI‐RADS ≥ 3 lesions, categorising them into non‐significant prostate cancer (nsPCa, 263 cases) and csPCa (136 cases, subdivided by GGs). Regions of interest (ROIs) for the prostate and lesions were manually delineated on T2‐weighted and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) images, followed by the extraction of radiomics features. A two‐stage model was developed: the first stage identifies csPCa using radiomics‐based MRI, and the second integrates clinical indicators for Gleason grading. Model efficacy was evaluated by sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and area under the curve (AUC), with external validation on 100 patients.

Results

The first‐stage model demonstrated excellent diagnostic accuracy for csPCa, achieving AUCs of 0.989, 0.982 and 0.976 in the training, testing and external validation cohorts, respectively. The second‐stage model exhibited commendable Gleason grading capabilities, with AUCs of 0.82, 0.844 and 0.83 across the same cohorts. Decision curve analysis supported the clinical applicability of both models.

Conclusions

This study validated the potential of T2W and ADC image radiomics features as biomarkers in distinguishing csPCa. Combining these features with clinical indicators for csPCa Gleason grading provides superior predictive performance and significant clinical benefit.
Loss Aversion, Moral Hazard, and Stochastic Contracts
Authors: Ho Hoa
Published: December 2024

I examine whether stochastic contracts benefit the principal under moral hazard and loss aversion. Incorporating the agent's expectation‐based loss aversion and allowing for stochastic contracts, I find that stochastic contracts reduce the principal's cost as compared with deterministic contracts. The optimal stochastic contract pays a high wage not only when good signals are realized but also with a positive probability after the realization of bad signals. The findings have an important implication for designing contracts for loss‐averse agents: the principal should insure the agent against wage uncertainty by employing stochastic contracts that increase the probability of a high wage.
Self‐organization of active plume lattice in bacterial bioconvection
Authors: Liu Siyu , Hou Qihui , Kearns Daniel B. , Wu Yilin
Published: December 2024

Self‐organized pattern formation is common in biological systems. Microbial populations can generate spatiotemporal patterns through various mechanisms, such as chemotaxis, quorum sensing, and mechanical interactions. When their motile behavior is coupled to a gravitational potential field, swimming microorganisms display a phenomenon known as bioconvection, which is characterized by the pattern formation of active cellular plumes that enhance material mixing in the fluid. While bioconvection patterns have been characterized in various organisms, including eukaryotic and bacterial microswimmers, the dynamics of bioconvection pattern formation in bacteria is less explored. Here, we study this phenomenon using suspensions of a chemotactic bacterium Bacillus subtilis confined in closed three‐dimensional (3D) fluid chambers. We discovered an active plume lattice pattern that displays hexagonal order and emerges via a self‐organization process. By flow field measurement, we revealed a toroidal flow structure associated with individual plumes. We also uncovered a power‐law scaling relation between the lattice pattern’s wavelength and the dimensionless Rayleigh number that characterizes the ratio of buoyancy‐driven convection to diffusion. Taken together, this study highlights that coupling between chemotaxis and external potential fields can promote the self‐assembly of regular spatial structures in bacterial populations. The findings are also relevant to material transport in surface water environments populated by swimming microorganisms.
You “R/R” What You Eat: Effects of High‐Fiber, Low‐Starch Diet Change on Regurgitation and Reingestion and Coprophagy in Zoo‐Housed Gorillas
Authors: Barrett Lisa P. , D'Agostino Jennifer , Guillory Heather , Leser Kimberly , Bottaro Laura , Snyder Rebecca J.
Published: December 2024

Regurgitation and reingestion (R/R) and coprophagy are common behaviors exhibited by primates living in human care. To reduce this undesirable behavior in two troops of western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla), the diet was modified by increasing fiber (by increasing browse) and decreasing starch (by reducing but not eliminating biscuits). We monitored behavior before, 3 weeks after, and 1 year after the diet change. One year after the diet change, the family group's diet was modified by adding more fruit to facilitate training. We documented significantly increased feeding activity for both troops, with time spent feeding doubling for one troop. Some individuals initially increased R/R or coprophagy behaviors but these increases were not significant, and 1 year after the diet change R/R was significantly reduced in the silverback male who had been known to exhibit R/R up to multiple times per day. In the family troop, coprophagy later decreased when animals were reunited and spent more time outdoors (for reasons unrelated to the diet change study), but this was not significant. This is the first published study to assess the behavioral effects of a high‐fiber, low‐starch diet on gorillas one full year after the diet change was made, and we demonstrated that the diet continued to positively impact some individuals' behavior. We discuss implications of our findings and suggest future directions for institutions that seek to reduce these behaviors in primates without necessarily completely eliminating biscuits from their diets.
Trends and Disparities in Non-fatal Firearm Injuries among Working-Age Adults in the United States, 2000–2021
Authors: Bhagavathula Akshaya , Price James H. , Khubchandani Jagdish
Published: December 2024

Firearm-related injuries remain a significant public health issue in the United States, with patterns and trends among various age groups not well characterized. This study analyzed time series trends and disparities in firearm injury rates among U.S. working-age adults from 2000 to 2021. A retrospective analysis using data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System-Firearm Injury Surveillance Study (NEISS-FISS) was conducted with a focus on non-fatal firearm injuries reported in emergency departments across a nationally representative sample of hospitals. Descriptive statistics were used to explore disparities across different demographic groups. Trends were assessed using locally estimated scatterplot smoothing (LOESS) and Joinpoint regression analysis. Between 2000 and 2021, an estimated 2.36 million non-fatal firearm injuries occurred, with males accounting for 85.7% and non-Hispanic Blacks (NHB) representing 48.8% of injuries. Firearm injuries were commonly associated with crime (29.8%), physical fights (24.7%), alcohol/substance use (17.7%), and verbal arguments (17.2%). Most incidents occurred on weekdays (63.7%) and assaults were the most prevalent intent (68.5%), followed by unintentional injuries (21.9%). Handguns (25.1%) and unspecified firearm types (61.2%) were the most commonly involved weapons. From 2000 to 2021, significant increases in firearm injuries were observed among those aged 26–45 years (23.0%), women (21.97%), NHB (42.15%), and those involving assaults (231.9%). Age-specific trends showed a significant annual percentage change (APC) increase of 4.9% for 18–25 years, 12.4% for 26–45 years, and 7.0% for 46–64 years from 2013 to 2021. Racial/ethnic trends revealed a significant APC increase of 5.0% for Non-Hispanic Whites (2014–2021), 25.0% for NHB (2015–2021), and a decrease of -31.3% followed by an increase of 15.6% for Hispanics (2012–2021). The disproportionate burden of firearm injuries among different age and racial/ethnic groups highlights the need for targeted prevention strategies and ongoing monitoring of injuries.
Frames and arguments on the admission of refugees: an empirically grounded typology
Authors: Drewski Daniel , Gerhards Jürgen
Published: December 2024

Systematic cross-national analyses of political debates on the admission of refugees and asylum seekers require a theoretically coherent and empirically comprehensive typology of frames and arguments used. The paper proposes such a typology of frames and arguments used by governments, opposition parties and social movements in public debates on the admission of refugees. We argue that the collective identity and characteristics of the receiving country on the one hand and refugees’ characteristics on the other constitute the key dimensions to which frames in political discourse about the admission of refugees refer. We distinguish between six different frames – economic, cultural, moral, legal, security-related and international – of how the “we” and the “others” can be interpreted. Furthermore, we specify typical arguments associated with the respective frames for or against the admission of refugees. Given that the typology was developed based on a discourse analysis of a very diverse set of countries, including some of the so-called “Global South”, we claim that it can be used to analyze political debates on the admission of refugees in other countries as well and can thus contribute to an accumulation of knowledge.
Risk factors and outcome of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bloodstream infections (PABSI) in hematological patients: a single center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kessel Johanna , Bug Gesine , Steffen Björn , Brunnberg Uta , Vehreschild Maria J.G.T. , Weber Sarah , Scheich Sebastian , Lang Fabian , Serve Hubert , Herrmann Eva , Hogardt Michael
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Bloodstream infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PABSI) in hematological patients are associated with high morbidity and mortality. We investigated the epidemiology, risk factors, and outcomes of PABSI at our center.

Methods

All adult hematological patients with PABSI between January 2013 and July 2023 were included. Demographic and clinical characteristics, antimicrobial susceptibilities, antibiotic therapy, fluoroquinolone-prophylaxis, source of infection, and 30-day outcome were recorded. Descriptive statistics, tests for difference, and logistic regression models were performed.

Results

Fifty patients with PABSI were identified with a median age of 58.5 years (range 24–78). 37 patients (74%) had severe neutropenia, 20 (40%) received allogeneic HSCT, and 29 (58%) had acute leukemia. A total of 34 (68%) had received timely appropriate anti-pseudomonal antibiotic therapy. The most common presumed cause of PABSI was mucositis (n = 16, 32%), followed by pneumonia (8, 16%) and skin and soft tissue infections (n = 6, 12%). Empirical combination therapy was used in 16 (32%) patients, while targeted combination therapies were used in 27 (54%) patients. P. aeruginosa detection led to treatment change in 31 (62%) cases. The overall 30-day survival rate was 78% (n = 39). Carbapenem-resistance occurred in 34% (n = 17), and multidrug-resistance (MDR) in 20% (n = 10). Prior antibiotic exposure was associated with resistance. Appropriate antibiotic therapy was associated with survival, whereas antibiotic resistance and organ infection were associated with a fatal outcome.

Conclusion

Prior antibiotic exposure in hematological patients is associated with resistance in PABSI, which is a major risk factor for a fatal outcome. Antibiotic stewardship efforts should be intensified and fluoroquinolone prophylaxis needs to be reconsidered.
Data Structures and Algorithms in Java
Authors: Myers Dan S.
Published: December 2024

Learn with confidence with this hands-on undergraduate textbook for CS2 courses. Active-learning and real-world projects underpin each chapter, briefly reviewing programming fundamentals then progressing to core data structures and algorithms topics including recursion, lists, stacks, trees, graphs, sorting, and complexity analysis. Creative projects and applications put theoretical concepts into practice, helping students master the fundamentals. Dedicated project chapters supply further programming practice using real-world, interdisciplinary problems which students can showcase in their own online portfolios. Example Interview Questions sections prepare students for job applications. The pedagogy supports self-directed and skills-based learning with over 250 'Try It Yourself' boxes, many with solutions provided, and over 500 progressively challenging end-of-chapter questions. Written in a clear and engaging style, this textbook is a complete resource for teaching the fundamental skills that today's students need. Instructor resources are available online, including a test bank, solutions manual, and sample code.