bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The value of incorporating carcass trait phenotypes in terminal sire selection indexes to improve carcass weight and quality of heavy lambs
Authors: Massender Erin , Brito Luiz F. , Cánovas Angela , Baes Christine F. , Kennedy Delma , Schenkel Flavio S.
Published: June 2020

Genetic selection for carcass traits is paramount to maximize the profitability and long‐term sustainability of any meat‐producing livestock species. The main objectives of this research were to evaluate the efficiency of indicator traits for the genetic improvement of lamb carcass traits and to determine the value of including carcass traits into terminal sire selection indexes for the Canadian sheep industry. The carcass traits included hot carcass weight (HCW), fat depth at the GR site (FATGR) and average carcass conformation score (AVGCONF), and were measured on heavy lambs (slaughter age less than 365 days and HCW greater than 16.3 kg) in commercial abattoirs. Growth traits were found to be moderately efficient indicator traits for the genetic improvement of HCW but selection on ultrasound traits was necessary to substantially improve the carcass quality traits (FATGR and AVGCONF). Economic selection indexes were designed by adding various combinations of carcass traits into the Canadian Sheep Genetic Evaluation System terminal indexes. Records measured on individuals and progeny were assumed to be the sources of information for live animal and carcass traits, respectively. The changes in index accuracy, efficiency and expected correlated response were used to assess the value of their inclusion. HCW was found to have a large economic value, and its inclusion into terminal selection indexes was expected to substantially increase their accuracy (0.08–0.12 points) and efficiency (20%–30%). However, further including FATGR (measured 110 mm from the carcass midline over the 12th rib) and AVGCONF had little impact on the accuracy (≤0.03) and efficiency (1%–7%) of the proposed indexes. Thus, the inclusion of carcass traits into the existing terminal selection indexes could be beneficial for the genetic improvement of HCW, but further research is needed to determine optimal methods of increasing carcass fatness and muscularity.
Visualization of the electrophysiologically defined junction between the superior vena cava and right atrium
Authors: Nishiyama Nobuhiro , Hashimoto Kenji , Yamashita Terumasa , Miyama Hiroshi , Fujisawa Taishi , Katsumata Yoshinori , Kimura Takehiro , Fukuda Keiichi , Takatsuki Seiji
Published: June 2020

Introduction

An electrical superior vena cava (SVC) isolation from the right atrium (RA) sometimes can be challenging. For a safe and efficient SVC isolation, we aimed to visualize the accurate position of the SVC‐RA junction on a three‐dimensional (3D) mapping system using the decremental conduction properties of the SVC‐RA junction in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

This study consisted of 15 consecutive AF patients (11 males, age 59 ± 10 years). A 3D mapping catheter was positioned in the SVC‐RA junction region while delivering a single extra‐stimulus from the right atrial appendage (RAA), to discriminate the RA and SVC potentials. The electrophysiological SVC‐RA junction was defined as the most proximal points where the SVC potentials were recorded, which were tagged on the 3D mapping system around the SVC‐RA junction, where radiofrequency energy applications were applied.

Results

Around the SVC‐RA junction, 9 ± 2 points were tagged on the 3D mapping system. The highest and lowest SVC‐RA junction points were located on the anterior wall and posterior wall, respectively. The difference in the level between the highest and lowest SVC‐RA junction points was 16.2 ± 6.3 mm. A successful SVC isolation was obtained in all patients without any complications.

Conclusion

The plane of the electrophysiologically defined SVC‐RA junction was not perpendicular to the body axis, but slanted due to the anterior side being higher. Recognizing the precise location of the SVC‐RA junction would contribute to a safe and efficacious SVC isolation.
Seomae mugwort and jaceosidin attenuate osteoarthritic cartilage damage by blocking IκB degradation in mice
Authors: Lee Hyemi , Jang Dain , Jeon Jimin , Cho Chanmi , Choi Sangil , Han Seong Jae , Oh Eunjeong , Nam Jiho , Park Chan Hum , Shin Yu Su , Yun Seung Pil , Yang Siyoung , Kang Li‐Jung
Published: June 2020

Seomae mugwort, a Korean native variety of Artemisia argyi, exhibits physiological effects against various diseases. However, its effects on osteoarthritis (OA) are unclear. In this study, a Seomae mugwort extract prevented cartilage destruction in an OA mouse model. In vitro and ex vivo analyses revealed that the extract suppressed MMP3, MMP13, ADAMTS4 and ADAMTS5 expression induced by IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNF‐α and inhibited the loss of extracellular sulphated proteoglycans. In vivo analysis revealed that oral administration of the extract suppressed DMM‐induced cartilage destruction. We identified jaceosidin in Seomae mugwort and showed that this compound decreased MMP3, MMP13, ADAMTS4 and ADAMTS5 expression levels, similar to the action of the Seomae mugwort extract in cultured chondrocytes. Interestingly, jaceosidin and eupatilin combined had similar effects to Seomae mugwort in the DMM‐induced OA model. Induction of IκB degradation by IL‐1β was blocked by the extract and jaceosidin, whereas JNK phosphorylation was only suppressed by the extract. These results suggest that the Seomae mugwort extract and jaceosidin can attenuate cartilage destruction by suppressing MMPs, ADAMTS4/5 and the nuclear factor‐κB signalling pathway by blocking IκB degradation. Thus, the findings support the potential application of Seomae mugwort, and particularly jaceosidin, as natural therapeutics for OA.
Inverse correlation between serum high‐molecular‐weight adiponectin and proinsulin level in a Japanese population: The Dynamics of Lifestyle and Neighborhood Community on Health Study
Authors: Nakamura Akinobu , Miyoshi Hideaki , Ukawa Shigekazu , Nakamura Koshi , Nakagawa Takafumi , Terauchi Yasuo , Tamakoshi Akiko , Atsumi Tatsuya
Published: June 2020

Serum high‐molecular‐weight adiponectin (HMWA) has a positive correlation with insulin secretion in the Japanese population. To validate this correlation, we investigated the correlation between serum HMWA and proinsulin, a marker of β‐cell dysfunction, in this population. A total of 488 participants (53.9% women) aged 35–79 years not taking oral hypoglycemic agents and/or insulin were enrolled. HMWA was significantly and inversely correlated with proinsulin adjusted for age and sex (partial regression coefficient β = −0.37; 95% confidence interval −0.46 to −0.28). When the participants were divided into two groups by median values of body mass index (23.2 kg/m2), serum insulin (4.3 µU/mL) or homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (1.0), similar inverse correlations were observed adjusted for age and sex in both groups. Our results showed that the HMWA level was inversely correlated with the proinsulin level in a general Japanese population.
Juvenile Competency to Stand Trial: A Systemic Look Under the Hood: Reasonable Accommodations
Authors: Ezzo Frank R. , Herman Madeline , Oravec Kristyn
Published: June 2020

Juvenile competency to stand trial has historically involved the intrinsic abilities of a juvenile to understand and appreciate the nature of the proceeding against the juvenile and the juvenile’s ability to assist in his/her defense and communicate effectively with defense counsel. The literature has not addressed the recursive systemic competency process between the juvenile, defense counsel, and hearing officer. This article discusses the communication skills of defense counsel and hearing officers as part of the systemic equation in a juvenile’s competency to stand trial. A case example is used to demonstrate the importance of reasonable accommodations as part of the systemic, recursive interactions between a juvenile and court personnel. The authors conclude with recommendations for training in the areas of linguistics and the psychosocial development of juveniles in the socio‐cultural context in which they live.
Parenting Styles and Children’s Delinquency Reconsidered: An Empirical Assessment
Authors: Lee Bora , Gerber Jurg , Cochran Joseph
Published: June 2020

For decades, criminological theories have emphasized the importance of strong parent‐child relationships in preventing children’s delinquent behaviors (e.g., Gottfredson & Hirschi, 1990). In particular, Thornberry’s (1996) interactional theory has catalyzed studies of the critical importance of reciprocal relationships between parents and children. However, though previous studies have examined reciprocal relationships, they typically do not assess changes in those relationships over time (Wiloughby & Hamza, 2011). The purpose of this study is to evaluate how reciprocal relationships vary among parenting styles and how this variance accounts for children’s delinquency. In particular, using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 Cohort study, the present study examines how the authoritative parenting style and different parent’s and child’s sexes affect the reciprocal parent‐child relationship. It discovers a significant correlation between authoritative parenting styles and a reduction in child delinquency and observes how a parent’s sex influences this dynamic.
Research on an electric energy‐saving grain drying system with internal circulation of the drying medium
Authors: Wang Guiying , Wu Wenfu , Qiao Fengxiang , Fu Daping , Liu Zhe , Han Feng
Published: June 2020

In this study, we designed a 5HLN‐R‐50 electric grain dryer with internal circulation of the drying medium based on the analysis of drying medium enthalpy and humidity status variation diagrams. We aimed to reduce the dryer energy consumption and exhaust gas emission. Using clean electric energy instead of a conventional dryer heat source, the drying system can cyclically dry high‐moisture grain with zero emissions. The experimental results indicate that the condensation effect is suitable when the ratio of the cool and hot air flows is 6:1 at a heat transfer coefficient of the condenser of 79.5 W/(m2.K) and a specific heat consumption of 3,916 kJ/kgH2O when compared with the Chinese standard of 7,500 kJ/kgH2O, that is, a maximum energy savings of 48%. This paper proposes a novel technological method and idea, studies the differences in energy efficiency, emissions reduction and clean production, and provides a reference for replacing the conventional grain dryer heat source of coal with electricity.

Practical applications

This drying system is applied in circular grain drying; a corn drying experiment indicates that compared with the specific energy consumption stipulated by the national standards of China, the highest energy savings is 48%, and zero release nonpollution is shown. The state parameters of the dried material and drying medium are displayed graphically in real time, and the operating parameters of the drying process are intuitively tracked in real time and automatically adjusted.
The usefulness of EUS‐FNA with contrast‐enhanced harmonic imaging of solid pancreatic lesions: A prospective study
Authors: Itonaga Masahiro , Kitano Masayuki , Kojima Fumiyoshi , Hatamaru Keiichi , Yamashita Yasunobu , Tamura Takashi , Nuta Junya , Kawaji Yuki , Shimokawa Toshio , Tanioka Kensuke , Murata Shin‐ichi
Published: June 2020

Background and Aim

Few studies have investigated endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration with contrast‐enhanced harmonic imaging (EUS‐FNA‐CHI) for diagnosing and adequately sampling pancreatic lesions. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of EUS‐FNA‐CHI compared with that of endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration with fundamental B mode imaging (EUS‐FNA‐FBI) for diagnosing solid pancreatic lesions.

Methods

Consecutive patients with solid pancreatic lesions were enrolled prospectively (UMIN 000024467). Only samples obtained during the first needle pass (EUS‐FNA‐FBI) and second needle pass (EUS‐FNA‐CHI) were used to compare the accuracy rate for diagnosing pancreatic lesions and rate of adequate sampling for histological evaluation. In patients with hypo‐enhancing lesions on contrast‐enhanced harmonic EUS (CH‐EUS), subgroup analyses were performed. Patients were classified into those with a heterogeneous area in the whole lesion (whole group), those with a heterogeneous area with a non‐enhancing area (non‐enhancing group), and those with a heterogeneous area with a homogeneous area (homogeneous group).

Results

Ninety‐three patients were enrolled. Overall, the rates of adequate sampling and sensitivity were significantly higher with EUS‐FNA‐CHI than with EUS‐FNA‐FBI (84.9% vs 68.8%, P = 0.003 and 76.5% vs 58.8%, P = 0.011, respectively). The adequate sampling rate and sensitivity were significantly higher with EUS‐FNA‐CHI than with EUS‐FNA‐FBI when the mass was > 15 mm. In the non‐enhancing and homogeneous groups, the adequate sampling rate and sensitivity were significantly higher with EUS‐FNA‐CHI than with EUS‐FNA‐FBI.

Conclusions

CH‐EUS enables improved observation of pancreatic lesions and helps identify the target of EUS‐FNA among different pathological areas of the lesions particularly of > 15 mm.
Quantitative elemental mapping of granulite‐facies monazite: Textural insights and implications for petrochronology
Authors: Weller Owen M. , Jackson Simon , Miller William G. R. , St‐Onge Marc R. , Rayner Nicole
Published: June 2020

Texturally complex monazite grains contained in two granulite‐facies pelitic migmatites from southern Baffin Island, Arctic Canada, were mapped by laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (using spot sizes ≤5 µm) to quantitatively determine the spatial variation in trace element chemistry (with up to 1,883 analyses per grain). The maps highlight the chemical complexity of monazite grains that have experienced multiple episodes of growth, resorption and chemical modification by dissolution–precipitation during high‐grade metamorphism. Following detailed chemical characterization of monazite compositional zones, a related U–Pb data set is re‐interpreted, allowing petrologically significant ages to be extracted from a continuum of concordant data. Synthesis of these data with pseudosection modelling of prograde and peak conditions allows for the temporal evolution of monazite trace element chemistry to be placed in the context of the evolving P–T conditions and major phase assemblage. This approach enables a critical evaluation of three commonly used petrochronological indicators: linking Y to garnet abundance, the Eu anomaly to feldspar content and Th/U to anatectic processes. Europium anomalies and Th/U behave in a relatively systematic fashion, suggesting that they are reliable petrochronological witnesses. However, Y systematics are variable, both within domains interpreted to have grown in a single event, between grains interpreted to be part of the same age population, and between samples that experienced similar metamorphic conditions and mineral assemblages. These observations caution against generalized petrological interpretations on the basis of Y content, as it suggests Y concentrations in monazite are controlled by domainal equilibria. The results reveal a c. 45 Myr interval between prograde metamorphism and retrograde melt crystallization in the study area, emphasizing the long‐lived nature of heat flow in high‐grade metamorphic terranes. Such long timescales of metamorphism would be assisted by the growth, retention and dominance of high‐Th suprasolidus monazite, as observed in this study, contributing to the radiogenic heating budget of mid‐ to lower‐crustal environments. Careful characterization of monazite grains suggests that continuum‐style U–Pb data sets can be decoded to provide insights into the duration of metamorphic processes.
Fictitious commodification and agrarian change: Indigenous peoples and land markets in Highland Ecuador
Authors: Goodwin Geoff
Published: June 2020

Creating private property rights and establishing land markets were fundamental to the historical development of capitalism in the Global North and remain at the centre of capitalist development in the Global South. This article contributes to debates about these processes by analysing the relationship between land markets and indigenous peoples in Highland Ecuador. Building on Karl Polanyi's concept of fictitious commodities, it elaborates a new concept that makes an analytical distinction between the activation and development of land markets. The former refers to the occasional participation of actors in markets to secure land, whereas the latter relates to the establishment and expansion of markets that regulate the distribution and value of land through market prices. Focusing on indigenous land struggles in the late 20th century, this article shows that the activation of land markets created opportunities for indigenous peasants to secure land, whereas the development of land markets closed them down. Social and class differentiation among the highland indigenous population increased through this contradictory process. The article connects this historical analysis to recent developments in Ecuador to contribute to empirical and theoretical debates about contemporary land struggles and agrarian change elsewhere in the Global South.
The relentlessde factoprivatization process of Chilika Lake, India
Authors: Adduci Matilde
Published: June 2020

In the early 1990s Chilika Lake saw a conflict over aquaculture practices that culminated in a process ofde factoprivatization of the lake waters and the implementation of illegal shrimp cultivation. An earlier article explored the class dynamics of the conflict and the present paper, based on a 2015 fieldwork revisit, reviews the unfolding of the socioeconomic dynamics underlying the illegal aquaculture activities. Looking at recent developments in the implementation of illegal shrimp cultivation in the lake, it interrogates the underlying balance between coercion and consent, and the implications for the livelihoods and protest politics of the fishing people. The paper draws attention to the reality of occupational displacement, analysing its implications for the viability of the fisher people's oppositional movement. Through doing so, it draws renewed attention to the complexity of state–society relations underlying the dynamics that govern conflict and critically contributes to recent debates on subaltern politics.
Dermatological diseases, sexuality and intimate relationships: A qualitative meta‐synthesis
Authors: Barisone Michela , Bagnasco Annamaria , Hayter Mark , Rossi Silvia , Aleo Giuseppe , Zanini Milko , Catania Gianluca , Pellegrini Ramona , Dasso Nicoletta , Ghirotto Luca , Sasso Loredana
Published: June 2020

Aims and objectives

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐synthesis of findings from qualitative research about sexuality and intimate relationship among patients with dermatological diseases.

Background

Over the last few decades, there has been an increase in clinical research investigating aspects related to sex and sexuality in patients living with dermatological diseases. In fact, studies recognise a negative impact on various aspects of intimacy, such as sexual function, self‐esteem and romantic relationships. The body of qualitative literature about sexuality in the context of dermatological diseases is emerging but consists mainly of small studies that would benefit from aggregation, synthesis and interpretation to highlight and summarise the overarching dimensions to this clinical issue.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐synthesis of qualitative studies.

Methods

BioMed Central, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, ERIC, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched between June–November 2017 with no publication date limits. Screening and selection of studies was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines (PRISMA). After retrieval, the qualitative data were subject to meta‐synthesis to identify overarching themes.

Results

Ten qualitative studies were found. We identified four themes: (a) Embarrassment and shame; (b) Impaired sense of attractiveness and sexual avoidance; (c) Relationship issues; and (d) Lack of professional support. The patients in these studies adopted negative coping styles, such as avoidance and hiding their bodies.

Conclusion

When assessing and evaluating patient care in dermatology, it is important that sexuality and the impact the disease could have on relationships is included.

Relevance to clinical practice

An important part of nursing care is ensuring that patients are helped to develop positive coping strategies rather than negative ones. Patients with dermatological conditions also need advice and treatment to address any physically related sexual problems. Nurses need to be the initiators of these sensitive conversations to put patients at ease and work together to implement positive measures to reduce the sexuality‐related issues patients face.
Pediatric Posterior Fossa Medulloblastoma: The Role of Diffusion Imaging in Identifying Molecular Groups
Authors: Reddy Nihaal , Ellison David W. , Soares Bruno P. , Carson Kathryn A. , Huisman Thierry A. G. M. , Patay Zoltan
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The molecular groups WNT activated (WNT), Sonic hedgehog activated (SHH), group 3, and group 4 are biologically and clinically distinct forms of medulloblastoma. We evaluated apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values’ utility in differentiating/predicting medulloblastoma groups at the initial diagnostic imaging evaluation and prior to surgery.

METHODS

We retrospectively measured the ADC values of the enhancing, solid portion of the tumor (EST) and of the whole tumor (WT) and performed Kruskal‐Wallis testing to compare the absolute tumor ADC values and cerebellar and thalamic ratios of three medulloblastoma groups (WNT, SHH, and group 3/group 4 combined).

RESULTS

Ninety‐three children (65 males) were included. Fifty‐seven children had group 3/group 4, 27 had SHH, and 9 had WNT medulloblastomas. The median absolute ADC values in the EST and WT were .719 × 10−3 and .864 × 10−3 mm2/s for group 3/group 4; .660 × 10−3 and .965 × 10−3 mm2/s for SHH; and .594 × 10−3 and .728 × 10−3 mm2/s for WNT medulloblastomas (P = .02 and .13). The median ratio of ADC values in the EST or the WT to normal cerebellar tissue was highest for group 3/group 4 and lowest for WNT medulloblastomas (P = .03 and .09), with similar results in pairwise comparisons of the corresponding thalamic ADC values (P = .02 and .06).

CONCLUSION

ADC analysis of a tumor's contrast‐enhancing solid portion may aid preoperative molecular classification/prediction of pediatric medulloblastomas and may facilitate optimal surgical treatment planning, reducing surgery‐induced morbidity.
Is oral dysaesthesia a somatic symptom disorder?
Authors: Kwong Kenelm Chun Lam , Yeoh Sue‐Ching , Balasubramaniam Ramesh
Published: June 2020

Oral dysaesthesia is a condition characterised by persistent alteration to oral sensation, perceived by the patient to be abnormal and unpleasant, in the absence of mucosal pathology. Its aetiology remains uncertain. The condition was attributed as a psychosomatic disease for much of the 20th century, but with newer technologies, recent literature has mostly focused on a possible peripheral or central neuropathic aetiology to oral dysaesthesia. Despite this, psychotropic medications and psychological treatments remain forefront in the armamentarium for the management of oral dysaesthesia. This article aims to review the literature surrounding the pathogenesis of oral dysaesthesia and explore whether oral dysaesthesia is a somatic symptom disorder.
The differential impact of neuropathic, musculoskeletal and neurovascular orofacial pain on psychosocial function
Authors: Smith Jared G. , Karamat Aalia , Melek Lydia N. , Jayakumar Simone , Renton Tara
Published: June 2020

Background

While the psychosocial morbidity of orofacial pain (OFP) is widely recognized, the differential impact of musculoskeletal, neuropathic and neurovascular symptoms on pain and psychosocial function in individuals with and without coexisting OFP conditions is unclear.

Materials and methods

This was a comparative cross‐sectional study of 350 consecutive patients attending an OFP clinic; 244 completed standardized self‐report measures of pain experience, mood, and generic and oral health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). The impact of musculoskeletal, neuropathic and neurovascular symptoms on measures was assessed using linear and logistic generalized linear models.

Results

Two hundred patients were diagnosed with a neuropathic condition: 125 with musculoskeletal pain and 101 with (neurovascular) headache disorders. 23% of patients presented with multiple OFP conditions; this was more common in patients with neurovascular (62%) than neuropathic (21%) and/or musculoskeletal orofacial symptoms (28%). Patients with neurovascular symptoms experienced significantly higher levels of pain, evidenced less pain self‐efficacy and had poorer overall health. Neuropathic OFP was significantly associated with greater psychological and social oral health disability. Multiple OFP symptoms were not linked to pain severity or psychosocial function, although health scores were worse for patients with neurovascular pain and neuropathic/musculoskeletal symptoms compared with patients with only neurovascular symptoms.

Conclusions

The profile and degree of psychosocial morbidity in patients with OFP is significantly related to the types of presenting orofacial symptoms. Patients with neurovascular pain present with higher pain levels and have poorer health while those with neuropathic pain have higher oral functional morbidity; both may require more complex multidisciplinary management.
Spatial skill concentration agglomeration economies
Authors: Ehrl Philipp , Monasterio Leonardo
Published: June 2020

Using the Brazilian census and administrative panel data, the present paper provides evidence that the spatial concentration of analytical skills generates positive wage externalities for all workers in the local labor market. We rely on shift‐share instrumental variables to overcome the endogeneity of skill concentrations. The observed externality is independent from the classical market size economies. The estimates are robust to geography, institutions and workers' sorting on unobservable abilities.
Stability of nightmare frequency and its relation to neuroticism: A longitudinal study
Authors: Schredl Michael , Göritz Anja S.
Published: June 2020

Models of nightmare aetiology postulate an interaction between trait and state factors. However, most of the studies that support these models have been cross‐sectional and longitudinal studies are scarce. The present data were obtained from N = 888 participants completing two online dream studies carried out independently with the same online panel 2 years apart. Nightmare frequency declined over the 2‐year period and these changes were related to changes in neuroticism. The effect of current psychopathology (state aspect) on nightmare frequency was significant but much smaller compared to the effect of previously measured nightmare frequency (trait aspect) and, thus, the study provided empirical evidence for diathesis‐stress models. Future longitudinal studies should take a closer look at life events and other factors that increase and/or decrease nightmare frequencies.
Aquinas on Evil and the Will: A response to Mackie
Authors: Rodríguez Facundo
Published: June 2020

This article argues that, without being reducible to a version of the Free Will Defence, Aquinas' theodicy and philosophical theology can offer contemporary versions of the Free Will Defence stronger metaphysical and theological foundations from which a response to Mackie's compatibilistic challenge – probably the most serious challenge against this defence – can be derived. Mackie's challenge to the Free Will Defence is the argument that the possibility of evil is not a necessary condition for the existence of free will, for God – if He existed and was omnipotent, omnibenevolent and omniscient – could have and would have created rational and free agents such that they would always freely choose the good. I claim, following Aquinas' hylomorphic ontology, that the creation of such a will is logically impossible as it would require the creation of a will containing naturally and invariably the formality of the universal and perfect good, and so the creation of a will indistinct from God's, which is by nature uncreated.
CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knockout and overexpression studies reveal a role of maize phytochrome C in regulating flowering time and plant height
Authors: Li Quanquan , Wu Guangxia , Zhao Yongping , Wang Baobao , Zhao Binbin , Kong Dexin , Wei Hongbin , Chen Cuixia , Wang Haiyang
Published: June 2020

Maize is a major staple crop widely used for food, feedstocks and industrial products. Shade‐avoidance syndrome (SAS), which is triggered when plants sense competition of light from neighbouring vegetation, is detrimental for maize yield production under high‐density planting conditions. Previous studies have shown that the red and far‐red photoreceptor phytochromes are responsible for perceiving the shading signals and triggering SAS in Arabidopsis; however, their roles in maize are less clear. In this study, we examined the expression patterns of ZmPHYC1 and ZmPHYC2 and found that ZmPHYC1, but not ZmPHYC2, is highly expressed in leaves and is regulated by the circadian clock. Both ZmPHYC1 and ZmPHYC2 proteins are localized to both the nucleus and cytoplasm under light conditions and both of them can interact with themselves or with ZmPHYBs. Heterologous expression of ZmPHYCs can complement the Arabidopsis phyC‐2 mutant under constant red light conditions and confer an attenuated SAS in Arabidopsis in response to shading. Double knockout mutants of ZmPHYC1 and ZmPHYC2 created using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology display a moderate early‐flowering phenotype under long‐day conditions, whereas ZmPHYC2 overexpression plants exhibit a moderately reduced plant height and ear height. Together, these results provided new insight into the function of ZmPHYCs and guidance for breeding high‐density tolerant maize cultivars.
Notoginsenoside R1 protects boar sperm during liquid storage at 17°C
Authors: Ren Fa , Feng Tianyu , Niu Tongjuan , Yuan Yitian , Liu Qi , Xiao Jinhong , Xu Gaoxiao , Hu Jianhong
Published: June 2020

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) damage mammalian sperm during liquid storage. Notoginsenoside R1 (NR1) is a compound isolated from the roots of Panax notoginseng; it has powerful ROS‐scavenging activities. This work hypothesized that the antioxidant capacity of NR1 could improve boar sperm quality and fertility during liquid storage. During liquid storage at 17°C, the supplementation of semen extender with NR1 (50 μM) significantly improved sperm motility, membrane integrity and acrosome integrity after 5 days of preservation. NR1 treatment also reduced ROS and lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels at day 5 (p <0.05). Higher glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) levels and sperm–zona pellucida binding capacity were observed in the 50 μM NR1 group than those in the control group at day 7 (p <0.05). Importantly, statistical analysis of the fertility of 200 sows indicated that addition of NR1 to the extender improved the fertility parameters of boar spermatozoa during liquid storage at 17°C (p <0.05). These results demonstrate the practical feasibility of using 50 μM NR1 as an antioxidant in boar extender during liquid storage at 17°C, which is beneficial to both spermatozoa quality and fertility.
“Distant Participation” and Youth Political Attitudes: Evidence from a Natural Experiment
Authors: Wong Stan Hok‐Wui , Wong Mathew Y. H.
Published: June 2020

Objective

In this article, we explore the seldom studied concept of “distant participation,” defined as the experience of social movements (such as receiving information from online media) from overseas. Online media may affect people's political attitudes, but how people use online media is also contingent upon their political attitudes.

Method

We take advantage of a natural experiment to deal with this endogenous selection problem. Our treatment group consists of college students who happened to join a short‐term overseas exchange program during the Umbrella Movement, which had an unexpectedly large turnout in Hong Kong. These students had a different mode of participation in the event from their peers physically in Hong Kong. The experience, including intensive exposure to online media, changed their media consumption habits, and hence their political attitudes.

Results

We find that the treatment group is more likely to report using online media to obtain news. They also have a stronger sense of political efficacy and significantly weaker national identity. We, however, find no significant difference between the treatment and control groups regarding civic and political participation.

Conclusion

This study provides a rare contribution to the study of the effect of online media by tackling the problem of selection. The concept of distant participation should also be given more attention given the ease of population flow and technological advancement nowadays.
Validation of an Associative Transcriptomics platform in the polyploid crop species Brassica juncea by dissection of the genetic architecture of agronomic and quality traits
Authors: Harper Andrea L. , He Zhesi , Langer Swen , Havlickova Lenka , Wang Lihong , Fellgett Alison , Gupta Vibha , Kumar Pradhan Akshay , Bancroft Ian
Published: June 2020

The development of more productive crops will be key to addressing the challenges that climate change, population growth and diminishing resources pose to global food security. Advanced ‘omics techniques can help to accelerate breeding by facilitating the identification of genetic markers for use in marker‐assisted selection. Here, we present the validation of a new Associative Transcriptomics platform in the important oilseed crop Brassica juncea. To develop this platform, we established a pan‐transcriptome reference for B. juncea, to which we mapped transcriptome data from a diverse panel of B. juncea accessions. From this panel, we identified 355 050 single nucleotide polymorphism variants and quantified the abundance of 93 963 transcripts. Subsequent association analysis of functional genotypes against a number of important agronomic and quality traits revealed a promising candidate gene for seed weight, BjA.TTL, as well as additional markers linked to seed colour and vitamin E content. The establishment of the first full‐scale Associative Transcriptomics platform for B. juncea enables rapid progress to be made towards an understanding of the genetic architecture of trait variation in this important species, and provides an exemplar for other crops.
Effect of citrate on ionized calcium levels during plateletpheresis procedures
Authors: Navkudkar Anisha , Desai Priti , Rajadhyaksha Sunil
Published: June 2020

Plateletpheresis procedures are generally well tolerated by most of the donors and adverse reactions due to citrate are generally mild and easily managed. The most common apheresis‐related reaction is hypocalcemia due to citrate anticoagulation which reduces ionized calcium and magnesium levels. The levels of ionized calcium levels decrease continuously from the baseline levels till end of the procedure and restore to baseline values post‐procedure. Symptoms of citrate toxicity are dependent on various factors like rate of citrate administration, duration of citrate infusion, dilution of citrate in extracellular fluid, redistribution, rate of citrate metabolism and the rate of citrate excretion. Citrate metabolism occurs in the liver, kidney, and skeletal muscle. Donors generally tolerate up to 20% decreases in ionized calcium levels. Citrate related reactions are generally transient and selflimiting. Citrate reactions can be differentiated into mild, moderate and severe. Management of citrate reactions includes mostly procedural modifications and/or oral calcium supplementation and rarely may require intravenous calcium supplementation. In donors with citrate related hypocalcemic symptoms, unresponsive to calcium supplementation, measurement of ionized magnesium should be considered as citrate decreased the ionized magnesium levels too. Management of such donors should be done with supplementation with magnesium sulfate. Management of donor reactions will make donors experience more pleasant, thereby increasing donor return rate and maintain the donor pool.
The zone model: A conceptual model for understanding the microenvironment of chronic wound infection
Authors: Kirketerp‐Møller Klaus , Stewart Philip S. , Bjarnsholt Thomas
Published: June 2020

In 2008, two articles in Wound Repair and Regeneration changed the clinical perspective on chronic wounds. They stated that chronic wounds that do not heal contain bacterial biofilms and that these biofilms may be one of the reasons for the nonhealing properties of the wounds. However, we still do not understand the exact role biofilms play in the halted healing process, and we are not able to successfully treat them. The reason for this could be that in vivo biofilms differ substantially from in vitro biofilms, and that most of the knowledge about biofilms originates from in vitro research. In this article, we introduce the zone model as a concept for understanding bacterial behavior and the impact of the microenvironment on both the host and the bacteria. Until now, identification of bacteria, gene expression, and postscript regulation have been looking at a bulk of bacteria and averaging the behavior of all the bacteria. As the zone model dictates that every single bacterium reacts to its own microenvironment, the model may facilitate the planning of future research with improved clinical relevance. The zone model integrates physiology and biology from single cells, microbial aggregates, local host response, surrounding tissue, and the systemic context of the whole host. Understanding the mechanisms behind the actions and reactions by a single bacterium when interacting with other neighboring bacteria cells, other microorganisms, and the host will help us overcome the detrimental effects of bacteria in chronic wounds. Furthermore, we propose use of the terminology “bacterial phenotype” when describing the actions and reactions of bacteria, and the term “biofilms” to describe the morphology of the bacterial community.
Atrase B, a novel metalloprotease with anti‐complement and anti‐coagulant activity, significantly delays discordant cardiac xenograft rejection
Authors: Fu Cheng , Shi Lei , Huang Xia , Feng Hao , Tan Xiaosheng , Chen Song , Zhu Lan , Sun Qianyun , Chen Gang
Published: June 2020

Background

Both the complement and the coagulation systems play important roles in the development of hyperacute or acute antibody‐mediated xenograft rejection. Atrase B is a novel metalloproteinase isolated from the venom of Naja atra. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of atrase B on complement activation and coagulation, as well as the effect on xenograft survival in a discordant xenotransplantation model.

Methods

The in vitro anti‐complement activity of atrase B was evaluated using a normal human serum (NHS)‐mediated complement‐dependent cytotoxicity model with an immortalized porcine aortic endothelial cell line (iPEC) as the target. The in vivo inhibitory effects on complement activity and coagulation function were measured in rats after the administration of atrase B. Guinea pig hearts were transplanted heterotopically into Wistar rats with or without atrase B pre‐treatment.

Results

Pre‐treatment of the NHS with atrase B inhibited the cell lysis of iPECs in a dose‐dependent manner. FACS analysis showed that atrase B potently suppressed the deposition of C5b‐9, but not C3c and C4c, on iPECs. In vivo, atrase B‐treated rats showed a significant reduction in serum complement activity; markedly prolonged PT, APTT, and TT; and a decreased plasma level of fibrinogen. When compared to PBS treatment evaluated at study endpoint, atrase B treatment significantly delayed xenograft rejection and attenuated pathologic damage, the formation of platelet microthrombi, and the deposition of fibrin and C5b‐9.

Conclusions

The dual activities of anti‐complement and anti‐coagulation make atrase B a potential adjuvant therapeutic drug for use in xenotransplantation.
Brazilian spotted fever: A spatial analysis of human cases and vectors in the state of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Ribeiro Claudia Mello , da Costa Veruska Maia , de Carvalho Jonas Lotufo Brant , Mendes Rodrigo Guerrero , Bastos Paula Andrea de Santis , Katagiri Satie , Amaku Marcos
Published: June 2020

Brazilian spotted fever (BSF) is a highly lethal disease caused by Rickettsia spp. and is transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma. Understanding the epidemiology of BSF in each region can help direct health surveillance actions. The objective of this study was to determine the spatial distribution of vectors and the incidence of BSF in the state of São Paulo. Spatial analysis included confirmed BSF cases between 2009 and 2019; occurrences were registered by municipalities of the state. There were 752 confirmed BSF cases, with incidences ranging between 0.01 and 10.37/10,000 inhabitants. Moran's Global Index for BSF was 0.20 (p = .001), which was indicative of spatial dependence. Moran's map located a cluster of 20 high priority municipalities for BSF and showed that Amblyomma sculptum is the vector involved in Rickettsia rickettsii transmission in these locations. Spatial analysis identified clusters formed by 47, 20 and seven significant municipalities for the presence of A. sculptum, Amblyomma aureolatum and Amblyomma ovale vectors, respectively. Surveillance and prevention actions are necessary in areas that are at high risk for BSF and in areas where the presence of vectors was significant.
Conceptual Flutter Analysis of Stepped Labyrinth Seals
Authors: Corral Roque , Vega Almudena , Greco Michele
Published: June 2020

A simple nondimensional model to describe the flutter onset of two-fin straight labyrinth seals (Corral and Vega, 2018, “Conceptual Flutter Analysis of Labyrinth Seals Using Analytical Models—Part I: Theoretical Background,” ASME J. Turbomach., 140(10), p. 121006) is extended to stepped seals. The effect of the axial displacement of the seal is analyzed first in isolation. It is shown that this fundamental mode is always stable. In a second step, the combination of axial and torsion displacements is used to determine the damping of modes with arbitrary torsion centers. It is concluded that the classical Abbot's criterion stating that seals supported on the low-pressure side of the seal are stable provided that natural frequency of the mode is greater than the acoustic frequency breaks down under certain conditions. An analytical expression for the nondimensional work-per-cycle is derived and new nondimensional parameters controlling the seal stability identified. It is finally concluded that the stability of stepped seals can be assimilated to that of a straight through seal if the appropriate distance of the torsion center to the seal is chosen.
Numerical Continuation on a Graphical Processing Unit for Kinematic Synthesis
Authors: Glabe Jeffrey , McCarthy J. Michael
Published: June 2020

This paper presents an implementation of a homotopy path tracking algorithm for polynomial numerical continuation on a graphical processing unit (GPU). The goal of this algorithm is to track homotopy curves from known roots to the unknown roots of a target polynomial system. The path tracker solves a set of ordinary differential equations to predict the next step and uses a Newton root finder to correct the prediction so the path stays on the homotopy solution curves. In order to benefit from the computational performance of a GPU, we organize the procedure so it is executed as a single instruction set, which means the path tracker has a fixed step size and the corrector has a fixed number iterations. This trade-off between accuracy and GPU computation speed is useful in numerical kinematic synthesis where a large number of solutions must be generated to find a few effective designs. In this paper, we show that our implementation of GPU-based numerical continuation yields 85 effective designs in 63 s, while an existing numerical continuation algorithm yields 455 effective designs in 2 h running on eight threads of a workstation.
Enhanced Electro-Osmotic Flow of Power-Law Fluids in Hydrophilic Patterned Nanochannel
Authors: Majhi M. , Nayak A. K. , Banerjee A.
Published: June 2020

In this paper, electro-osmotic flow (EOF) enhancement of non-Newtonian power-law fluids in a modulated nanochannel with polarized wall is proposed. The channel walls are embedded with periodically arranged rectangular grooves, placed vertically with the direction of electric field. The key aspect of the present study is to achieve enhanced EOF of power-law fluids due to periodic groove patterns. The flow characteristics are studied through Poisson–Nernst–Plank-based Navier–Stokes model associated with electrochemical boundary conditions. Some random-phase differences between the grooves in both the walls are allowed to find the best configuration for the EOF enhancement in case of both Pseudo-plastic fluid, Dilatant fluid, and compared to Newtonian fluid. A notable enhancement factor is observed when groove width is much larger than its depth along with overlapped EDL. It is also found that EOF enhancement for shear-thinning fluid is quite better than the other fluids, for the same set of physical parameters. A comparison of enhancement factor for power-law fluid is also presented when the grooves are replaced with hydrophobic strips. It is worth to mention here that the present study assumes no-slip condition which is true for wetting (hydrophilic) surface over nonwetting (hydrophobic) strips which is common occurrence in regards to nanoconfinements.
Primary Resonance of Computer Numerical Control Worktable With Clearance and Friction
Authors: Niu Jiangchuan , Zhao Zhishuang , Shen Yongjun , Yang Shaopu
Published: June 2020

Computer numerical control (CNC) worktable is the most important part of CNC machines. The CNC worktable exhibits complex nonlinear dynamic behaviors in the milling process. The physical model and mathematical model of CNC worktable are presented, where the nonlinear factors such as clearance and friction are considered. The primary resonance of computer numerical control worktable with clearance and friction under harmonic excitation is investigated. The approximate analytical solution of primary resonance is obtained by using the averaging method. The stability condition of the steady-state solution is also exhibited. It is found that the clearance affects the dynamic characteristics of the system in the form of equivalent nonlinear stiffness, and the friction coefficient acts in the form of equivalent nonlinear damping. The correctness of the approximate analytical solutions is verified by comparing the numerical results with the approximate analytical solutions. The approximate analytical solution is in good agreement with its corresponding numerical solution. The effects of clearance and friction on the dynamic characteristics of the system are analyzed in detail. The stick-slip vibration induced by friction is also analyzed by phase portrait at low feed velocity of machine tool. The results can provide a reference for the dynamic analysis of CNC worktable.