bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of genetic diversity on gene essentiality within theE. colispecies
Authors: Rousset François , Caballero José Cabezas , Piastra-Facon Florence , Fernández-Rodríguez Jesús , Clermont Olivier , Denamur Erick , Rocha Eduardo P.C. , Bikard David
Published: May 2020

Bacteria from the same species can differ widely in their gene content. InE. coli, the set of genes shared by all strains, known as the core genome, represents about half the number of genes present in any strain. While recent advances in bacterial genomics have enabled to unravel genes required for fitness in various experimental conditions at the genome scale, most studies have focused on model strains. As a result, the impact of this genetic diversity on core processes of the bacterial cell largely remains to be investigated. Here, we developed a new CRISPR interference platform for high-throughput gene repression that is compatible with mostE. coliisolates and closely-related species. We applied it to assess the importance of ∼3,400 nearly ubiquitous genes in 3 growth media in 18 representativeE. colistrains spanning most common phylogroups and lifestyles of the species. Our screens highlighted extensive variations in gene essentiality between strains and conditions. Unlike variations in gene expression level, variations in gene essentiality do not recapitulate the strains’ phylogeny. Investigation of the genetic determinants for these variations highlighted the importance of epistatic interactions with mobile genetic elements. In particular, we showed how mobile genetic elements can trigger the essentiality of core genes that are usually nonessential. This study provides new insights into the evolvability of gene essentiality and argues for the importance of studying various isolates from the same species in bacterial genomics.
PA-X is an avian virulence factor in H9N2 avian influenza virus
Authors: Clements Anabel L. , Peacock Thomas P. , Sealy Joshua E. , Hussain Saira , Sadeyen Jean-Remy , Shelton Holly , Digard Paul , Iqbal Munir
Published: May 2020

Influenza A viruses encode several accessory proteins that have host- and strain-specific effects on virulence and replication. The accessory protein PA-X is expressed due to a ribosomal frameshift during translation of the PA gene. Depending on the particular combination of virus strain and host species, PA-X has been described as either acting to either reduce or increase virulence and/or virus replication. In this study, we set out to investigate the role PA-X plays in H9N2 avian influenza viruses, focussing particularly on the natural avian host, chickens. We found H9N2 PA-X induced robust host shutoff in both mammalian and avian cells and increased replication in mammalian, but not avian cells. We further showed that PA-X affected embryonic lethalityin ovoand led to more rapid viral shedding and widespread organ disseminationin vivoin chickens. Overall, we conclude PA-X may act as a virulence factor for H9N2 viruses in chickens, allowing faster replication and wider organ tropism.
Cryo-EM structure and inhibitor design of human IAPP (amylin) fibrils
Authors: Cao Qin , Boyer David R. , Sawaya Michael R. , Ge Peng , Eisenberg David S.
Published: May 2020

Human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP, or amylin) is a 37 amino acid hormone secreted by pancreatic islet β-cells. Aggregation of hIAPP into amyloid fibrils is found in more than 90% of Type-II Diabetes (T2D) patients and is considered to be associated with T2D pathology. Although different models have been proposed, the high resolution structure of hIAPP fibrils is unknown. Here we report the cryo-EM structure of recombinant full-length hIAPP fibrils. The fibril is composed of two symmetrically-related protofilaments with ordered residues 14-37 that meet at a 14-residue central hydrophobic core. Our hIAPP fibril structure (i) supports the previous hypothesis that residues 20-29, especially 23-29 are the primary amyloid core of hIAPP, (ii) suggests a molecular mechanism for the action of the hIAPP hereditary mutation S20G, (iii) explains why the 6 residue substitutions in rodent IAPP prevent aggregation, and (iv) suggests possible regions responsible for the observed hIAPP cross-seeding with β-amyloid. Furthermore, we performed structure-based inhibitor design to generate potential hIAPP aggregation inhibitors via a capping strategy. Four of the designed candidates delay hIAPP aggregation in vitro, providing a starting point for the development of T2D therapeutics and proof-of-concept that the capping strategy can be used on full-length cryo-EM fibril structures.
Role of Prefrontal Cortex during Sudoku task: fNIRS study
Authors: Ashlesh Patil , Deepak K K , Preet Kochhar Kanwal
Published: May 2020

Sudoku is a popular leisure time activity that involves no math, but is based on logic based combinatorial number placement in a matrix. Many studies have been dedicated towards finding an algorithm to solve Sudoku but investigation of the neural substrates involved in Sudoku has been challenging. It is difficult to measure the brain activity during 9×9 Sudoku using traditional fMRI technique due to the procedural constraints. 16 optodes fNIRS (functional near infrared spectroscopy) forms an excellent alternative to study the activity of prefrontal cortex (PFC) during Sudoku task. Sudoku task was divided into two steps to understand the differential function of the PFC while applying heuristic rules. Classical two-way ANOVA as well as General Linear Model based approach was used to analyze the data. 28-noise free recording from right-handed participants revealed increased activity in all 16 optode locations during step 1 (3 × 3 subgrids) and step 2 (easy level 9×9 Sudoku) as compared to rest. Contrasting the step2-step1 revealed that medial regions of PFC were preferentially activated. These findings suggest the role of these regions, while applying multiple heuristic rules to solve 9×9 Sudoku puzzle.

Graphical abstract

Highlights

This is first fNIRS study that tried to unravel the role of PFC during Sudoku task.

Uniquely divided the Sudoku task into two steps to understand the differential role of PFC while applying multiple heuristic rules.

Both the medial and lateral regions of PFC are activated during Sudoku task.

However, the medial regions of PFC play a differential role, especially when we consider the row and the column rule of Sudoku.
HSATII RNA is inducedviaa non-canonical ATM-regulated DNA-damage response pathway and facilitates tumor cell proliferation and movement
Authors: Nogalski Maciej T. , Shenk Thomas
Published: May 2020

Pericentromeric human satellite II (HSATII) repeats are normally silent, but can be actively transcribed in tumor cells, where increased HSATII copy number is associated with a poor prognosis in colon cancer, and in human cytomegalovirus (HCMV)-infected cells, where the RNA facilitates viral replication. Here, we report that HCMV infection or treatment of ARPE-19 diploid epithelial cells with the DNA-damaging agents, etoposide and zeocin, induced HSATII RNA expression, and a kinase-independent function of ATM was required for the induction. Additionally, various breast cancer cell lines growing in adherent, 2-dimensional cell culture expressed HSATII RNA at different levels, and levels were markedly increased when cells were either infected with HCMV or treated with zeocin. High levels of HSATII RNA expression correlated with enhanced migration of breast cancer cells, and knockdown of HSATII RNA reduced cell migration and the rate of cell proliferation. Our investigation links high expression of HSATII RNA to the DNA damage response, centered on a non-canonical function of ATM, and demonstrates a role for the satellite RNA in tumor cell proliferation and movement.

SIGNIFICANCE

HSATII RNA is associated with cancer progression, immunostimulation and, as we recently reported, it plays an important role in herpesvirus infections. However, the understanding of cellular processes responsible for the expression of HSATII RNA has been limited. Our current investigation identified a non-canonical, ATM kinase-independent DNA-damage response pathway as a common cellular mechanism regulating HSATII RNA induction in virus-infected cells or cells treated with DNA-damaging agents. Additionally, our study provides a link between expression of HSATII RNA and the cellular growth and migration phenotypes of cancer cells, establishing a new paradigm to study the biological consequences of HSATII RNA expression, i.e., treatment of normal diploid and tumor cells with DNA-damaging agents.
Efficient, high-throughput ligand incorporation into protein microcrystals by on-grid soaking
Authors: Martynowycz Michael W. , Gonen Tamir
Published: May 2020

A method for soaking ligands into protein microcrystals on TEM grids is presented. Every crystal on the grid is soaked simultaneously using only standard cryoEM vitrification equipment. The method is demonstrated using proteinase K microcrystals soaked with the 5-amino-2,4,6-triodoisophthalic acid (I3C) magic triangle. A soaked microcrystal is milled to a thickness of 200nm using a focused ion-beam, and microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) data are collected. A high-resolution structure of the protein with four ligands at high occupancy is determined. Compared to much larger crystals investigated by X-ray crystallography, both the number of ligands bound and their occupancy was higher in MicroED. These results indicate that soaking ligands into microcrystals in this way results in a more efficient uptake than in larger crystals that are typically used in drug discovery pipelines by X-ray crystallography.
Bayesian Network Analysis of Covid-19 data reveals higher Infection Prevalence Rates and lower Fatality Rates than widely reported
Authors: Neil Martin , Fenton Norman , Osman Magda , McLachlan Scott
Published: May 2020

Widely reported statistics on Covid-19 across the globe fail to take account of both the uncertainty of the data and possible explanations for this uncertainty. In this paper we use a Bayesian Network (BN) model to estimate the Covid-19 infection prevalence rate (IPR) and infection fatality rate (IFR) for different countries and regions, where relevant data are available. This combines multiple sources of data in a single model. The results show that Chelsea Mass. USA and Gangelt Germany have relatively higher infection prevalence rates (IPR) than Santa Clara USA, Kobe, Japan and England and Wales. In all cases the infection prevalence is significantly higher than what has been widely reported, with much higher community infection rates in all locations. For Santa Clara and Chelsea, both in the USA, the most likely IFR values are 0.3-0.4%. Kobe, Japan is very unusual in comparison with the others with values an order of magnitude less than the others at, 0.001%. The IFR for Spain is centred around 1%. England and Wales lie between Spain and the USA/German values with an IFR around 0.8%. There remains some uncertainty around these estimates but an IFR greater than 1% looks remote for all regions/countries. We use a Bayesian technique called ‘virtual evidence’ to test the sensitivity of the IFR to two significant sources of uncertainty: survey quality and uncertainty about Covid-19 death counts. In response the adjusted estimates for IFR are most likely to be in the range 0.3%-0.5%.
A virtual educational model on a CNC milling machine including and excluding two methods of fuzzy controllers
Authors: Osman Bashir , Zhu Haitao
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Training centers and labs offer many applications suitable for beginners who want to know how to set and operate a computer numerical control (CNC) milling machine. However, few applications address a basic understanding of the machining process founded on mathematical principals in line with new high-speed and high-precision machining technologies. The purpose of this paper is to present a complex mechanism in a simplified way, explaining the subject at an elementary level.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have developed an application of the CNC milling machine in a Matlab/Simulink package, obtaining the appropriate parameters mathematically. The project developed an analytical method using Matlab code to test the step response (the actual cutting force) under various parameters to ensure comparability of the designed model. The analytical results are in line with the developed model. The Matlab/Simulink user interface allows the application to better explain machining for educational purposes. Furthermore, by combining this mathematical model and the fuzzy controller, the high-speed constant-force milling control model has a user interface for data entry. The addition of two kinds of fuzzy controllers (look-up table and Mamdani) achieve a more educational environment compared with existing models.

Findings

The developed technique can be used in CNC milling machine centers and laboratories. For virtual training purposes, this paper provides a two-stage educational model, giving students the necessary feedback on what they have learned at each stage from the beginning use of the CNC milling machine, with and without the controller. The system also offers to track the step-response analysis method. This method overcomes the shortage of milling processes modeled by the traditional transfer function, which more accurately establishes the relationship between cutting force and cutting parameters.

Practical implications

This technique can be used in the CNC machine centers and laboratory for teaching beginner students and trainees. Real data from the workshop had been used.

Originality/value

The earlier versions of this manuscript were presented in: JVE International LTD. Vibroengineering Procedia. +2017. 14.; IEEE 4th International Conference on Information Science and Control Engineering (ICISCE) +2017.
Skin seeding technique with 0.5‐mm micropunch grafting for vitiligo irrespective of the epidermal–dermal orientation: Animal and clinical studies
Authors: Kim Dong Seok , Ju Hyun Jeong , Lee Han Na , Choi In Hye , Eun Sung Hye , Kim Jiehoon , Bae Jung Min
Published: May 2020

Micropunch grafting is the simplest surgical intervention for refractory vitiligo but is tedious and time‐consuming. Therefore, we aimed to verify the efficacy and safety of dermal orientation grafting using motorized 0.5‐mm micropunch grafting for vitiligo. In a preliminary animal study, 12‐week‐old rats were used to observe the healing process after the transplantation of dermal orientation grafts with various punch sizes. In a clinical trial, a total of 100 vitiligo patches in 50 patients with stable vitiligo were randomly allocated to motorized 0.5‐mm micropunch grafting in epidermal and dermal orientations, respectively. The grafts were implanted at intervals of 5 mm at the recipient site. Treatment success was defined as greater than 75% repigmentation. In the animal study, all grafts were shown to be well integrated into the recipient site within 3 weeks. In the clinical trial, treatment success was achieved in 72% and 76% of the epidermal and dermal orientation groups, respectively; a cobblestone appearance was observed in 4% and 2%, respectively. In conclusion, we demonstrated that this new grafting method irrespective of epidermal–dermal orientation using motorized 0.5‐mm micropunch grafting was effective and safe. We have named this the “skin seeding technique” and it differs from traditional punch grafting in that it can be performed regardless of the graft orientation.
Local‐scale tree and shrub diversity improves pollination services to shea trees in tropical West African parklands
Authors: Delaney Aoife , Dembele Assita , Nombré Issa , Gnane Lirasse Franck , Marshall Elaine , Nana Adama , Vickery Juliet , Tayleur Catherine , Stout Jane C.
Published: May 2020

Shea Vitellaria paradoxa trees bear fruit and seeds of considerable economic, nutritional and cultural value in the African Sudano‐Sahelian zone. In much of West Africa, shea exists within an agroforestry system referred to as ‘parkland’, where social changes, including migration, have resulted in expanding areas of crop cultivation, reductions in both the area of fallow land and the duration of fallow periods, and reduced diversity of habitats and woody species. Shea benefits strongly from pollination by bees and the loss of Parkland biodiversity may reduce the availability of pollinators, leading to pollen limitation and reductions in fruit yields.

We investigated whether shea trees in southern Burkina Faso experienced pollination limitation, and whether local‐ and landscape‐scale diversity were linked to visitation by bees, the degree of limitation observed and the weight of fruit produced.

Honeybees Apis mellifera were observed more frequently in diverse sites, whereas non‐Apis species were generally widespread but visited trees in greater numbers at diverse sites.

We found that shea fruit production was significantly limited due to lack of pollination and that the degree of pollination limitation was greater in sites with lower levels of tree and shrub diversity.

Synthesis and applications. Sites with greater diversity of tree and shrub species had more bee visits and less extreme pollination limitation than less diverse sites, indicating that small‐scale diversity is associated with more efficient pollination services. Consequently, shea yields are likely to benefit from retention of a range of different tree and shrub species in parklands. We recommend that when fallows are cleared for cultivation, such beneficial plants are retained within cultivated fields, and that measures to conserve pollinators in the region should target both A. mellifera and non‐Apis bee species.
Public entrepreneurship and organizational performance in Asia: Do entreprneurial leadership, ethical climate and Confucian values matter in Korea and China
Authors: Moon M. Jae , Khaltar Odkhuu , Lee Joonwoo , Hwang Changho , Yim Gowoonbit
Published: May 2020

This is an empirical study on the effects of Confucian values and entrepreneurial leadership on public entrepreneurship and organisational performance in Asia based on data collected from China and South Korea. This study focuses on the differences in the effects of Confucian values, entrepreneurial leadership, and ethical climate on public entrepreneurship and organisational performance between government agencies in South Korea and China. Contrary to the conventional Western perspective, this study shows that Confucian values are not necessarily negatively associated with public entrepreneurship and organisational performance. Entrepreneurial leadership and public entrepreneurship (as a mediating variable) appear to be significant factors to organisational performance. The similarities and differences between China and South Korea are discussed.
Women and Men who Committed Murder: Male/Female Psychopathic Homicides
Authors: Carabellese Felice , Felthous Alan R. , Mandarelli Gabriele , Montalbò Domenico , La Tegola Donatella , Parmigiani Giovanna , Rossetto Ilaria , Franconi Filippo , Ferretti Fabio , Carabellese Fulvio , Catanesi Roberto
Published: May 2020

The present study was designed to compare gender differences in psychiatric diagnosis with the dimension of psychopathy in women and men who had attempted or committed homicide. The study samples consisted of 39 homicidal females and 48 homicidal males who were confined in one of Italy’s REMS or prison facilities in two southern provinces of Italy (Puglia and Basilicata). Assessment instruments included the SCID‐5, the PID‐5 IRF, and the PCL‐R. Each gender group was stratified according to the level of criminal responsibility for the homicidal offense (full, partial, absent), and after assessments, according to the degree of the psychopathic dimension. There were clear gender differences in homicidal individuals. Female offenders were less likely to have had a record of criminal charges/convictions or imprisonment, and their homicides were more often intrafamilial, victimizing especially of their children, whereas males targeted intimate partners and extrafamilial victims. In the entire group, there was an inverse relationship between the level of psychopathy and the personality disorder on one side, and the psychotic disturbance on the other. Factor 2 (lifestyle/antisocial dimension) of the PCL‐R was higher among the homicidal males, whereas females tended to score higher on Factor 1 (the interpersonal/affective dimension). Finally, if the psychopathic dimension is a qualifier for antisocial personality disorder, as indicated in DSM‐5, this appears to be less true for females who tend to have other personality disorders.
Cadmium effects on plant reproductive organs: Physiological, productive, evolutionary and ecological aspects
Authors: Carvalho Marcia E. A. , Gaziola Salete A. , Carvalho Lilian A. , Azevedo Ricardo A.
Published: May 2020

Studies involving the effects of long‐term exposure of plants to cadmium (Cd) are not usual, hence, data about Cd‐induced impacts on plant reproductive organs are scarce. The lack of robust information about this matter is surprising and also worrying because it is not yet clear whether (and how strong) Cd influences yield, and quality of fruits and seeds. Such information is necessary to guide strategies to manage crops and to avoid negative impacts on the environment and human health. This review gathers information about the effects of long exposure of flowers, fruits and seeds to Cd. A critical analysis of the data related to this matter, which have been published in the last 30 years, was performed. Ecological and evolutionary aspects were also discussed, and new insights were provided. The information about Cd‐induced effects on fruit and seed quality is relevant to support not only further scientific studies, but also environmental, economic and health policies in times of increasing heavy metal pollution in agricultural areas.
Anatomical description of the origin and distribution of the lumbosacral plexus in one puma (Puma concolor)
Authors: Londoño‐Osorio Andrés , Ceballos Claudia P. , Tamayo‐Arango Lynda J.
Published: May 2020

Wild felids often suffer spinal and limb disorders; however, their nervous system anatomy is poorly studied. Herein, the lumbosacral plexus (Plexus lumbosacralis) of an adult puma and the motor and sensitive innervation of the pelvic limb is described. We found anatomical similarities to other felids, but also some differences. Branches L4‐S3 form the lumbosacral plexus (Plexus lumbosacralis) in the puma. The femoral nerve (N. femoris) arises from the union of L4‐L5, while in other felids, it is formed by L5‐L6. Unlike in the cat, the sartorius muscle receives branches from the saphenous (N. saphenous) and femoral nerves (N. femoris), and the lateral head of the gastrocnemius and superficial digital flexor muscles are innervated by a branch of the soleus muscle.
Multidimensional analysis of landscape dynamics in a Central African forest‐savannah mosaic
Authors: Demichelis Christophe , Oszwald Johan , Gasquet‐Blanchard Clélia , Narat Victor , Bokika Jean‐Christophe , Pennec Flora , Giles‐Vernick Tamara
Published: May 2020

Most landscape cover assessments for conservation programmes rely largely on remote sensing analyses. These analyses, however, neglect how people inhabiting protected zones perceive and structure land cover. Using socio‐ecological systems (SES) analysis in a forest‐savannah mosaic on the Congo Basin forest edge (Democratic Republic of Congo), we investigated how human practices, landscape perceptions and land use patterns affected forest cover. We conducted remote sensing analysis using a Sentinel‐2 satellite image and 187 GPS landmarks, producing a land cover map with 11 classes. Our results yielded an 81.85% correspondence with additional 164 GPS landmarks, a robust score in tropical areas. We conducted 40 individual interviews, eighteen focus group discussion workshops and nine months of participant observation of human practices to identify 19 land units and elaborate a granular SES system structuring the landscape. Integrating local knowledge and practices with general ecological and agronomic processes, we developed a landscape dynamics model revealing progressive forest colonisation of savannahs. Our methods demonstrate that a forest‐edge landscape cover evaluation through remote sensing and local knowledge can contribute to finer‐grained assessment of land cover and ecosystem services. This assessment can assist conservation efforts by considering local populations' practices on and perceptions of landscape change.
Malignant extra‐ovarian endometriosis: A case series of ten patients and review of the literature
Authors: Poon Carolin , Rome Robert
Published: May 2020

Background

The malignant transformation of endometriosis within the ovary is a recognised condition. There is less literature surrounding the malignant transformation of extra‐ovarian endometriosis (MEOE).

Aims

We report our experience with MEOE in ten patients and present a review of the literature regarding this rare malignancy.

Materials and Methods

For this retrospective case series, patients were identified from a practice‐based database. Where required, operative notes and pathology reports were reviewed.

Results

Ten patients diagnosed with MEOE between 1991 and 2014 were identified. In each case, the tumour was localised to the pelvis and centred on the pouch of Douglas, broad ligament, obturator fossa, parametrium and rectovaginal septum. Tumour histology was endometrioid adenocarcinoma (six), clear cell carcinoma (two), and adenosarcoma (two). Five patients had a history of endometriosis and four had received oestrogen‐only hormone replacement therapy after hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy. Treatments included surgery (one), surgery and radiotherapy (one), surgery and chemotherapy (one), surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy (three), and radiotherapy and chemotherapy (four). Maintenance hormonal therapy was also used in three patients. Curative doses of radiotherapy 45 Gy or more resulted in in‐field control in five patients. Six patients had no evidence of disease at a mean follow up period of 15 years (5.5–24 years). Severe G3 long‐term bladder morbidity occurred in three patients after radical surgery and radiotherapy.

Conclusion

MEOE is a rare condition for which treatment needs to be individualised. Multicentre studies and registries will hopefully define optimal treatment.
Characteristics of three different patellar implant designs in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Gharaibeh Monther A. , Chen Darren B. , Wood Jil A. , MacDessi Samuel J.
Published: May 2020

Background

Despite debate over the role of patellar resurfacing in total knee arthroplasty, many surgeons feel it decreases re‐operation rates and anterior pain, and an increasing number are adopting resurfacing. This study compares intra‐operative characteristics of different patellar implants to assist surgeons in gaining better understanding of these implants.

Methods

The three most commonly used patellar implants (inset, onlay round and onlay oval) were allocated randomly to 120 patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. We compared the groups in terms of implant size, bone coverage, lateral underhang (uncovered lateral facet) and need for partial lateral facetectomy. We also compared the patient‐reported outcome measures between the groups at 6 months post‐operatively.

Results

The inset, onlay round and onlay oval designs had bone coverage of 48.5%, 65.9% and 85.9%, respectively (P < 0.01). Similarly, the onlay‐oval implant was found to have the smallest lateral underhang of all three designs (inset 11.6 mm; onlay round 6.9 mm, onlay oval 1.6 mm, P < 0.01). The onlay‐oval design was the largest implant with a median size of 35 mm, compared to 23 mm for the inset and 32 mm for the onlay round (P < 0.01). In addition, patellae using onlay‐oval implants required significantly fewer lateral facetectomies due to improved bone coverage (inset 95%; onlay round 87%; onlay oval 3%; P < 0.01). Finally, comparison of patient‐reported outcome measures between the groups showed no difference at an early assessment of 6 months.

Conclusion

Onlay‐oval design allows for the use of a larger implant, improving bone coverage and reducing the need for partial lateral facetectomy; however, early assessment of outcomes shows no difference between the three designs.
Body coloration, carotenoid content, spermatophore quality and biochemical parameters by effect of temperature in the caridean shrimp Neocaridina davidi (Atyidae)
Authors: Tomas Ana Laura , Sganga Daniela Eliana , Battista Ariadna , López Greco Laura Susana
Published: May 2020

This study analysed the effects of three temperatures (20, 24 and 28ºC) on survival, body coloration, carotenoid content, body weight, biochemical composition and spermatophore quality in the shrimp Neocaridina davidi. In all treatments, survival was >90%. Female body coloration and total carotenoid content, for both males and females, did not statistically differ among treatments. Female weight was similar for the three temperatures, while male weight was higher at 20ºC and 24ºC. Total lipid content was higher in female and male shrimps raised at 20ºC. Total protein content was higher in females exposed at 28ºC, but in contrast, males showed the lowest value at the same temperature. The histological and histochemical analyses of the male reproductive system did not reveal differences among treatments. At 20ºC, a delay in ovaries maturation was observed, as well as a smaller amount of ovigerous females at the end of the experimental period. Hence, these results suggest that a temperature range from 20ºC to 28ºC is adequate for satisfactory growth, with no change being exerted on spermatophore quality, body female coloration or carotenoid content, but biochemical composition was affected. Nevertheless, the lowest temperature had a clear impact on the metabolism and reproduction of N. davidi.
Investigating the response of paediatric leukaemia‐propagating cells to BCL‐2 inhibitors
Authors: Diamanti Paraskevi , Ede Benjamin C. , Dace Phoebe EI , Barendt William J. , Cox Charlotte V. , Hancock Jeremy P. , Moppett John P. , Blair Allison
Published: May 2020

Relapse of paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) may occur due to persistence of resistant cells with leukaemia‐propagating ability (LPC). In leukaemia, the balance of B‐cell lymphoma‐2 (BCL‐2) family proteins is disrupted, promoting survival of malignant cells and possibly LPC. A direct comparison of BCL‐2 inhibitors, navitoclax and venetoclax, was undertaken on LPC subpopulations from B‐cell precursor (BCP) and T‐cell ALL (T‐ALL) cases in vitro and in vivo. Responses were compared to BCL‐2 levels detected by microarray analyses and Western blotting. In vitro, both drugs were effective against most BCP‐ALL LPC, except CD34−/CD19− cells. In contrast, only navitoclax was effective in T‐ALL and CD34−/CD7− LPC were resistant to both drugs. In vivo, navitoclax was more effective than venetoclax, significantly improving survival of mice engrafted with BCP‐ and T‐ALL samples. Venetoclax was not particularly effective against T‐ALL cases in vivo. The proportions of CD34+/CD19−, CD34−/CD19− BCP‐ALL cells and CD34−/CD7− T‐ALL cells increased significantly following in vivo treatment. Expression of pro‐apoptotic BCL‐2 genes was lower in these subpopulations, which may explain the lack of sensitivity. These data demonstrate that some LPC were resistant to BCL‐2 inhibitors and sustained remission will require their use in combination with other therapeutics.
Development and validation of an explainable artificial intelligence‐based decision‐supporting tool for prostate biopsy
Authors: Suh Jungyo , Yoo Sangjun , Park Juhyun , Cho Sung Yong , Cho Min Chul , Son Hwancheol , Jeong Hyeon
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To develop and validate a risk calculator for prostate cancer (PCa) and clinically significant PCa (csPCa) using explainable artificial intelligence (XAI).

Patients and Methods

We used data of 3791 patients to develop and validate the risk calculator. We initially divided the data into development and validation sets. An extreme gradient‐boosting algorithm was applied to the development calculator using five‐fold cross‐validation with hyperparameter tuning following feature selection in the development set. The model feature importance was determined based on the Shapley value. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic curve was analysed for each validation set of the calculator.

Results

Approximately 1216 (32.7%) and 562 (14.8%) patients were diagnosed with PCa and csPCa. The data of 2843 patients were used for development, whereas the data of 948 patients were used as a test set. We selected the variables for each PCa and csPCa risk calculation according to the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression. The AUC of the final PCa model was 0.869 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.844–0.893), whereas that of the csPCa model was 0.945 (95% CI 0.927–0.963). The prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level, free PSA level, age, prostate volume (both the transitional zone and total), hypoechoic lesions on ultrasonography, and testosterone level were found to be important parameters in the PCa model. The number of previous biopsies was not associated with the risk of csPCa, but was negatively associated with the risk of PCa.

Conclusion

We successfully developed and validated a decision‐supporting tool using XAI for calculating the probability of PCa and csPCa prior to prostate biopsy.
Pilot aerobic exercise intervention for youth at‐risk for serious mental illness
Authors: Corbett Syl , Farris Megan S. , MacQueen Glenda , Addington Jean
Published: May 2020

Background

This study was conducted as a pilot exercise intervention in youth at‐risk for serious mental illness (SMI). The objectives were to examine the feasibility of an exercise intervention and to determine what improvement was observed, following participation in a moderate‐ to high‐intensity aerobic exercise programme.

Methods

Forty‐four male and female youth at‐risk for SMI were recruited. Participants completed clinical, lifestyle and fitness assessments prior to and following a 16‐week moderate‐ to high‐intensity aerobic exercise intervention. Sixty‐minute exercise sessions were held three times per week.

Results

Forty‐one participants completed the entire intervention and assessments; thus, the retention rate was 93.2%. Exercise participants achieved a mean of 98.3 (standard deviation (SD) 26.1) minutes/week of high‐intensity and a mean of 32.8 (SD 8.7) minutes/week of moderate‐intensity aerobic exercise over the course of 16 weeks. Improvements in aerobic fitness and body composition as well as reductions in anxiety and depression were observed after the exercise intervention.

Conclusion

Aerobic exercise is a feasible and sound intervention strategy in youth at‐risk for SMI. Further research is required to expand upon these initial findings and develop knowledge of the mechanisms, optimum dose and factors that influence the efficacy of exercise.
Cognitive insight in individuals with an at‐risk mental state for psychosis: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Dondé Clément , Laprévote Vincent , Lavallé Layla , Haesebaert Frédéric , Fakra Eric , Brunelin Jerome
Published: May 2020

Aim

To compare cognitive insight abilities measured with the Beck Cognitive Insight Scale (BCIS) between individuals with an at‐risk mental state (ARMS) and healthy controls.

Method

Review and meta‐analysis based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Results

A search for articles investigating cognitive insight in ARMS in the MEDLINE and ScienceDirect databases revealed five studies including 303 ARMS and 376 controls. Regarding BCIS subscales, ARMS individuals displayed significant higher scores for self‐certainty than controls with a small‐to‐moderate effect size (ESg = 0.45 [0.23;0.67], P < .005), whereas no significant difference was observed for self‐reflectiveness (ESg = −0.56 [−0.18;1.29], P = .14). No significant differences were observed between ARMS and controls for overall cognitive insight abilities as indexed by the BCIS composite score (ESg = −0.24 [−0.43;0.91], P = .45).

Conclusions

Self‐certainty abnormalities seem to predate the expression of full‐blown psychotic episode and to be higher in ARMS than in healthy controls. By contrast, ARMS did not display abnormal self‐reflectiveness and overall cognitive insight abilities.
Screening of plants from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest led to the identification of Athenaea velutina (Solanaceae) as a novel source of antimetastatic agents
Authors: Almeida Alisson A. , Lima Graziela D. A. , Simão Marcos V. R. C. , Moreira Gabriela A. , Siqueira Raoni P. , Zanatta Ana C. , Vilegas Wagner , Machado‐Neves Mariana , Bressan Gustavo C. , Leite João P. V.
Published: May 2020

Plant biodiversity is a source of potential natural products for the treatment of many diseases. One of the ways of discovering new drugs is through the cytotoxic screening of extract libraries. The present study evaluated 196 extracts prepared by maceration of Brazilian Atlantic Forest trees with organic solvents and distilled water for cytotoxic and antimetastatic activity. The MTT assay was used to screen the extract activity in MCF‐7, HepG2 and B16F10 cancer cells. The highest cytotoxic extract had antimetastatic activity, as determined in in vitro assays and melanoma murine model. The organic extract of the leaves of Athenaea velutina (EAv) significantly inhibited migration, adhesion, invasion and cell colony formation in B16F10 cells. The phenolic compounds and flavonoids in EAv were identified for the first time, using flow injection with electrospray negative ionization‐ion trap tandem mass spectrometry analysis (FIA‐ESI‐IT‐MSn). EAv markedly suppressed the development of pulmonary melanomas following the intravenous injection of melanoma cells to C57BL/6 mice. Stereological analysis of the spleen cross‐sections showed enlargement of the red pulp area after EAv treatment, which indicated the activation of the haematopoietic system. The treatment of melanoma‐bearing mice with EAv did not result in liver damage. In conclusion, these findings suggest that A velutina is a source of natural products with potent antimetastatic activity.
Severe trauma patients and nursing practice‐associated infections
Authors: Morales‐Cané Ignacio , López‐Soto Pablo J. , Valverde‐León María del Rocío , Moral‐Arroyo Juan Antonio , León‐López Rafael , Rodríguez‐Borrego María Aurora
Published: May 2020

Aims

Our study examined factors influencing the development of healthcare‐associated infections in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary hospital in southern Spain.

Background

Healthcare‐associated infections are a frequent adverse event, significantly lengthening patient stays in the ICU. Nursing practice is a key factor in the infection control process.

Design

A retrospective longitudinal study with two observation periods (admission and discharge) was performed in an ICU of a tertiary hospital.

Methods

We analysed patient records for those admitted to this unit coded as CIE 800‐959.9 from 2012 to 2016. Using binomial logistic regression analysis, we analysed factors associated with healthcare‐associated infections.

Results

We analysed 375 records (men: 78.1%; average age: 46.63 years). Of these, 9.2% patients acquired a healthcare‐associated infection during their stay. Nursing practice‐related factors significantly associated with the development of infection were the number of days connected to mechanical ventilation and the number of days in the ICU.

Conclusion

Healthcare‐associated infections in patients with severe trauma admitted to the ICU are mainly associated with the management of invasive techniques. A multidisciplinary approach should focus on the review of action and care plans.
A mixed integer programming model and solution method for the operation of an integrated water supply system
Authors: Santos Maristela O. , Soler Edilaine M. , Furlan Marcos M. , Vieira José C.M.
Published: May 2020

The problem addressed in this paper focuses on the reduction of electrical energy costs for the operation of hydraulic pumps, which are used for catchment and distribution of water in water supply systems. As the electricity tariffs are different according to the time of day, it is necessary to decide when and how many pumps must be used to collect and distribute water, in each period of time, and, when there must be water transfer among tanks so that the demand of each consumer center is met without a lack of resources. A mixed integer programming (MIP) model is proposed and a competitive MIP‐based heuristic is developed to solve this problem. Numerical tests in a case study carried out with the water supply system of a Brazilian city demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed mathematical model and solution method.
The impact of person‐centred care on job productivity, job satisfaction and organisational commitment among employees in long‐term care facilities
Authors: Huang Ching‐Yuan , Weng Rhay‐Hung , Wu Tsung‐Chin , Hsu Ching‐Tai , Hung Chiu‐Hsia , Tsai Yu‐Chen
Published: May 2020

Aim and Objectives

This study aimed to explore the effects of person‐centred care on their job productivity, job satisfaction and organisational commitment among employees in long‐term care facilities.

Background

Person‐centred care has been regarded as the best caregiving model for long‐term care facilities. Few studies tested the impact of person‐centred care on employee performance.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was employed.

Methods

This study sent 373 samples with self‐report questionnaires to the employees of sixteen long‐term care facilities in Taiwan. A total of 366 valid samples were collected. A 33‐item person‐centred care questionnaire with Likert‐scale responses was developed to assess the extent of person‐centred care. We adopted hierarchical multiple regression analysis to test the impact of person‐centred care on employee performance. We adopted the STROBE guidelines.

Results

Friendly environment level and personalised care, respectively, scored the highest with a mean of 4.19 among five dimensions of person‐centred care. Personalised care, residents' self‐realisation and relationships, and organisational support had significant positive correlations with job productivity. Friendly environment level and organisational support had significant correlations with job satisfaction. Friendly environment level, residents' self‐realisation and relationships, and organisational support had significant correlations with organisational commitment.

Conclusion

Person‐centred care has beneficial impact on job satisfaction, job productivity and organisational commitment of employees in long‐term care facilities.

Relevance to clinical practice

Person‐centred care appears to be a crucial factor of employee performance in long‐term care facilities. The five‐dimensional person‐centred care questionnaire in this study can serve as an important management tool for improving the effectiveness of person‐centred care.
Prenatal diagnosis of midgut volvulus with jejunal atresia by ultrasonography
Authors: Chen Dan , Tam Kwong Ho , Zhang Yulan , Xiao Shangjie , Yang Chaoxiang , Tang Xuezhen
Published: May 2020

Prenatal midgut volvulus is difficult to diagnose, and it is particularly difficult to evaluate the degree of rotation, which may be related to prognosis. We present a rare case of prenatal midgut volvulus with a 720° rotation around the superior mesenteric artery diagnosed based on ultrasonography, and jejunal atresia was noted at the same time. This condition was supported by prenatal magnetic resonance imaging and the subsequent postnatal operation. To the best of our knowledge, there is no previous literature describing similar ultrasound findings in the prenatal period. Recognition of the color Doppler ultrasound imaging findings can help elucidate the relationship among the twisted vessels of midgut volvulus during the prenatal examination.
QTL‐seq identifies BnaFT.A02 and BnaFLC.A02 as candidates for variation in vernalization requirement and response in winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus)
Authors: Tudor Eleri H. , Jones D. Marc , He Zhesi , Bancroft Ian , Trick Martin , Wells Rachel , Irwin Judith A. , Dean Caroline
Published: May 2020

Winter, spring and biennial varieties of Brassica napus that vary in vernalization requirement are grown for vegetable and oil production. Here, we show that the obligate or facultative nature of the vernalization requirement in European winter oilseed rape is determined by allelic variation at a 10 Mbp region on chromosome A02. This region includes orthologues of the key floral regulators FLOWERING LOCUS C (BnaFLC.A02) and FLOWERING LOCUS T (BnaFT.A02). Polymorphism at BnaFLC.A02 and BnaFT.A02, mostly in cis‐regulatory regions, results in distinct gene expression dynamics in response to vernalization treatment. Our data suggest allelic variation at BnaFT.A02 is associated with flowering time in the absence of vernalization, while variation at BnaFLC.A02 is associated with flowering time under vernalizing conditions. We hypothesize selection for BnaFLC.A02 and BnaFT.A02 gene expression variation has facilitated the generation of European winter oilseed rape varieties that are adapted to different winter climates. This knowledge will allow for the selection of alleles of flowering time regulators that alter the vernalization requirement of oilseed rape, informing the generation of new varieties with adapted flowering times and improved yields.
Effect of semen extenders and storage time on quality of Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata) drake semen during the entire reproductive season
Authors: Łukaszewicz Ewa , Jerysz Anna , Chełmońska Bronisława
Published: May 2020

Avian semen dilution with appropriate extender allows to prolong the fertilizing ability of sperm stored in vitro. In the present study, the impact of extenders and time of storage on morphology of Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata) drake semen were examined. Semen was collected twice a week, using male stimulation by a female method, from 12 adults (29 weeks old) drakes kept individually in cages, under controlled environmental conditions. Freshly collected, pooled ejaculates were divided into three part: neat undiluted sample, and diluted 1:1 with Schramm (SCH) or Watanabe (W) extender and stored at 4°C. Morphological examination of all samples was conducted after dilution and then, after 3 and 6 hr of storage. The storage of undiluted semen caused decrease (p ≤ .01) in live morphologically normal sperm, from 79.73% in the freshly collected ejaculates to 55.75% and to 12.12% after 3 and 6 hr of storage, respectively (average calculated for the entire reproductive season). In the semen diluted with Schramm's extender the adequate values attained 86.84, 79.65 and 61.66%, and using Watanabe extender 84.77, 83.58 and 75.25%, respectively. The period of semen storage and the type of extender caused significant (p ≤ 0,05; p ≤ 0,01) changes in sperm morphology. The longer period of storage contributed to the decrease in number of morphologically normal sperm, whereas their content in Watanabe extender after 3 and 6 hr of storage was higher (p ≤ .01) than in semen diluted in Schramm extender.
Evolution of feeding habits of sap beetles (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) and placement of Calonecrinae
Authors: Lee Min Hyeuk , Lee Seunghyun , Leschen Richard A. B. , Lee Seunghwan
Published: May 2020

Nitidulidae includes some 4500 species under 350 genera in ten subfamilies, making it the most species‐rich family in Cucujoidea. In this study, we present a phylogeny of the family based on five gene regions (COI, 28s, CAD, H3, Wingless) for 73 ingroup taxa representing nine of the ten currently recognized subfamilies of Nitidulidae, including the enigmatic subfamily Calonecrinae. Our results are consistent with a prior molecular study that recovered (i) paraphyletic Nitidulinae with the inclusion of Meligethinae and Cillaeinae and (ii) subfamilial status of Prometopiinae. The molecular phylogenetic position of Calonecrinae is recovered for the first time, as a sister taxon to Epuraeinae. Ancestral state reconstruction of feeding behaviour indicates that the stem group nitidulids were largely mycophagous with transitions to other feeding types independently derived.