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In beef cattle breeding programs, various selection criteria have been proposed and employed with the aim of improving traits related to carcass composition and the quality of the final product, meat. However, the importance of genotype by environment interaction (G×E) for such traits is still not well understood. Our objectives were: 1) to investigate the importance of G×E on ultrasound carcass traits, growth and visual scores and 2) to estimate the genetic correlation of ultrasound carcass traits with growth and visual scores taking into account the G×E in Hereford and Braford cattle. A multiple-trait reaction norm model was fitted to the field records of 37,948 animals. With the exception of postweaning average daily weight gain (ADG), the G×E can lead to important changes in the ranking of estimated breeding values of sires across environments for all traits. Thus, models that consider heterogeneity of genetic variances along an environmental gradient may be considered more appropriate for genetic evaluations of animals reared under conditions similar to the present study. Based on estimates of genetic correlation, the quality of visual scores or ADG as indicators of carcass quality assessed by ultrasonography is dependent on the production environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite advancements in genetic and functional studies, the timely diagnosis of common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) remains a significant challenge. This exploratory study was designed to assess the diagnostic performance of a novel panel of biomarkers for CVID, incorporating the sum of κ+λ light chains, soluble B-cell maturation antigen (sBCMA) levels, switched memory B cells (smB) and the VISUAL score. Comparative analyses utilizing logistic regression were performed against established gold-standard tests, specifically antibody responses. Our research encompassed 88 subjects, comprising 27 CVID, 23 selective IgA deficiency (SIgAD), 20 secondary immunodeficiency (SID) patients and 18 healthy controls. We established the diagnostic accuracy of sBCMA and the sum κ+λ, achieving sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Spe) of 89% and 89%, and 90% and 99%, respectively. Importantly, sBCMA showed strong correlations with all evaluated biomarkers (sum κ+λ, smB cell and VISUAL), whereas the sum κ+λ was uniquely independent from smB cells or VISUAL, suggesting its additional diagnostic value. Through a multivariate tree decision model, specific antibody responses and the sum κ+λ emerged as independent, signature biomarkers for CVID, with the model showcasing an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.946, Se 0.85, and Spe 0.95. This tree-decision model promises to enhance diagnostic efficiency for CVID, underscoring the sum κ+λ as a superior CVID classifier and potential diagnostic criterion within the panel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Computed tomography (CT) plays a paramount role in the characterization and follow-up of COVID-19. Several score systems have been implemented to properly assess the lung parenchyma involved in patients suffering from SARS-CoV-2 infection, such as the visual quantitative assessment score (VQAS) and software-based quantitative assessment score (SBQAS) to help in managing patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study aims to investigate and compare the diagnostic accuracy of the VQAS and SBQAS with two different types of software based on artificial intelligence (AI) in patients affected by SARS-CoV-2. (2) Methods: This is a retrospective study; a total of 90 patients were enrolled with the following criteria: patients' age more than 18 years old, positive test for COVID-19 and unenhanced chest CT scan obtained between March and June 2021. The VQAS was independently assessed, and the SBQAS was performed with two different artificial intelligence-driven software programs (Icolung and CT-COPD). The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) statistical index and Bland–Altman Plot were employed. (3) Results: The agreement scores between radiologists (R1 and R2) for the VQAS of the lung parenchyma involved in the CT images were good (ICC = 0.871). The agreement score between the two software types for the SBQAS was moderate (ICC = 0.584). The accordance between Icolung and the median of the visual evaluations (Median R1–R2) was good (ICC = 0.885). The correspondence between CT-COPD and the median of the VQAS (Median R1–R2) was moderate (ICC = 0.622). (4) Conclusions: This study showed moderate and good agreement upon the VQAS and the SBQAS; enhancing this approach as a valuable tool to manage COVID-19 patients and the combination of AI tools with physician expertise can lead to the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plans for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) represents the 6th leading cancer worldwide. In most cases, patients present a locally advanced disease at diagnosis and non-surgical curative treatment is considered the standard of care. Nowadays, [18F]FDG PET/CT is a validated tool in post-treatment evaluation, with a high level of evidence. However, to standardize imaging response, several visual scales have been proposed with none of them approved yet. The study’s aim is a head-to-head comparison between the diagnostic performance of the Hopkins criteria, the Deauville score, and the new proposed Cuneo score, to establish their prognostic role. Secondly, we investigate the possible value of semiquantitative analysis, evaluating SUVmax and ΔSUVmax of the lymph node with the highest uptake on the restaging PET scan. Moreover, we also considered morphological features using the product of diameters measured on the co-registered CT images to assess the added value of hybrid imaging. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis on histologically proven HNSCC patients who underwent baseline and response assessment [18F]FDG PET/CT. Post-treatment scans were reviewed according to Hopkins, Deauville, and Cuneo criteria, assigning a score to the primary tumor site and lymph nodes. A per-patient final score for each scale was chosen, corresponding to the highest score between the two sites. Diagnostic performance was then calculated for each score considering any evidence of locoregional progression in the first 3 months as the gold standard. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method. SUVmax and its delta, as well as the product of diameters of the lymph node with the highest uptake at post-treatment scan, if present, were calculated. Results A total of 43 patients were finally included in the study. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy were 87%, 86%, 76%, 92%, and 86% for the Hopkins score, whereas 93%, 79%, 70%, 96%, and 84% for the Deauville score, respectively. Conversely, the Cuneo score reached the highest specificity and PPV (93% and 78%, respectively) but the lowest sensitivity (47%), NPV (76%), and accuracy (77%). Each scale significantly correlated with PFS and OS. The ROC analysis of the combination of SUVmax and the product of diameters of the highest lymph node on the restaging PET scan reached an AUC of 0.822. The multivariate analysis revealed the Cuneo criteria and the product of diameters as prognostic factors for PFS. Conclusions Each visual score statistically correlated with prognosis thus demonstrating the reliability of point-scale criteria in HNSCC. The novel Cuneo score showed the highest specificity, but the lowest sensibility compared to Hopkins and Deauville criteria. Furthermore, the combination of PET data with morphological features could support the evaluation of equivocal cases.

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) represents the 6th leading cancer worldwide. In most cases, patients present a locally advanced disease at diagnosis and non-surgical curative treatment is considered the standard of care. Nowadays, [18F]FDG PET/CT is a validated tool in post-treatment evaluation, with a high level of evidence. However, to standardize imaging response, several visual scales have been proposed with none of them approved yet. The study's aim is a head-to-head comparison between the diagnostic performance of the Hopkins criteria, the Deauville score, and the new proposed Cuneo score, to establish their prognostic role. Secondly, we investigate the possible value of semiquantitative analysis, evaluating SUVmax and ΔSUVmax of the lymph node with the highest uptake on the restaging PET scan. Moreover, we also considered morphological features using the product of diameters measured on the co-registered CT images to assess the added value of hybrid imaging. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis on histologically proven HNSCC patients who underwent baseline and response assessment [18F]FDG PET/CT. Post-treatment scans were reviewed according to Hopkins, Deauville, and Cuneo criteria, assigning a score to the primary tumor site and lymph nodes. A per-patient final score for each scale was chosen, corresponding to the highest score between the two sites. Diagnostic performance was then calculated for each score considering any evidence of locoregional progression in the first 3 months as the gold standard. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method. SUVmax and its delta, as well as the product of diameters of the lymph node with the highest uptake at post-treatment scan, if present, were calculated. Results: A total of 43 patients were finally included in the study. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy were 87%, 86%, 76%, 92%, and 86% for the Hopkins score, whereas 93%, 79%, 70%, 96%, and 84% for the Deauville score, respectively. Conversely, the Cuneo score reached the highest specificity and PPV (93% and 78%, respectively) but the lowest sensitivity (47%), NPV (76%), and accuracy (77%). Each scale significantly correlated with PFS and OS. The ROC analysis of the combination of SUVmax and the product of diameters of the highest lymph node on the restaging PET scan reached an AUC of 0.822. The multivariate analysis revealed the Cuneo criteria and the product of diameters as prognostic factors for PFS. Conclusions: Each visual score statistically correlated with prognosis thus demonstrating the reliability of point-scale criteria in HNSCC. The novel Cuneo score showed the highest specificity, but the lowest sensibility compared to Hopkins and Deauville criteria. Furthermore, the combination of PET data with morphological features could support the evaluation of equivocal cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The minimally processed fruit and vegetable industry showed rapid growth worldwide, primarily due to the increasing consumer need for ready-to-eat fresh products characterized by high nutritional, sensory and healthy value. The postharvest life of peeled cactus pear fruits is relatively short, due to the processing operations that affect fruit integrity and cause metabolic disfunctions, as well as pulp browning, microbial growth, loss of firmness, off-flavor development, and nutraceutical value loss. In this study, we investigated the effects of mucilage-based (OFI) and calcium ascorbate edible coating on minimally processed cactus pear summer-ripening fruit, cold stored under passive atmosphere. The effect of the edible coating on the postharvest life, quality attributes, and nutraceutical value of fruit was evaluated by colors, total soluble solids content, carbohydrates; titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, betalains, DPPH, visual quality, and sensorial analysis. Our data showed a significant effect of mucilage-based and calcium ascorbate-based coating on preserving quality, nutritional value, sensorial parameters, and improving postharvest life of minimally processed cactus pear fruits; OFI had the most effective barrier effect. Furthermore, both coating treatments did not negatively affect the natural taste of minimally processed cactus pear fruits, which is an important aspect regarding the use of edible coatings when taste modification is undesirable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrangeas are popular landscape plants that are widely grown in many parts of the world. The objective of this study was to evaluate the salinity tolerance of three novel Dichroa ×hydrangea hybrids [Dichroa febrifuga ‘Yamaguchi Hardy’ × Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Hamburg’ (YH × Hamburg), Dichroa febrifuga ‘Yellow Wings’ ×Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Nigra’ (YW × Nigra), and Dichroa febrifuga ‘Yellow Wings’ ×Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Oakhill’ (YW × Oakhill)]. A 52-day greenhouse study was conducted by irrigating container-grown plants with nutrient solution at an electrical conductivity (EC) of 1.1 dS·m−1 (control) or saline solution at an EC of 5.0 dS·m−1 (EC 5) or 10.0 dS·m−1 (EC 10). At harvest, YH × Hamburg and YW × Nigra in EC 5 and EC 10 still exhibited good quality with average visual scores greater than 4.1 (0 = dead; 5 = excellent). For YW × Oakhill, moderate foliar salt damage was observed with an average visual score of 2.9 in EC 5 and 2.2 in EC 10. Compared with control, the shoot dry weight of YH × Hamburg, YW × Nigra, and YW × Oakhill in EC 5 reduced by 35%, 35%, and 55%, respectively, whereas that in EC 10 decreased by 58%, 58%, and 67%, respectively. Elevated salinity also decreased plant height, leaf area, and leaf greenness [Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD) readings]; chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm); performance index (PI); and net photosynthetic rate (Pn). All these responses might result from excess accumulation of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl−) ions in hydrangea leaves. In this study, compared with control, leaf Na+ concentration of YH × Hamburg, YW × Nigra, and YW × Oakhill increased 11, 36, and 14 times, respectively, in EC 5, and 31, 53, and 18 times, respectively, in EC 10. Compared with control, leaf Cl− concentration increased 4, 9, and 7 times in EC 5, and 10, 11, and 8 times in EC 10 for YH × Hamburg, YW × Nigra, and YW × Oakhill, respectively. Leaf nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), potassium (K+), and iron (Fe3+) concentrations decreased at elevated salinity levels but did not cause any nutrient deficiency. In summary, the three Dichroa ×hydrangea hybrids exhibited different salinity tolerance: YH × Hamburg and YW × Nigra were more tolerant than YW × Oakhill. Salt-tolerant hydrangea hybrids should be chosen for landscape use if soil and/or irrigation water are salty.

Background: Hepatic steatosis (HS) can be comprehensively assessed by visually comparing the hepatic and vessel attenuation on unenhanced computed tomography (CT). We aimed to evaluate the reliability and reproducibility of a CT-based visual grading system (VGS) for comprehensive assessment of HS. Methods: In this retrospective study, a four-point VGS based on the visual comparison of liver and hepatic vessels was validated by six reviewers with diverse clinical experience using the unenhanced CT images of 717 potential liver donors. The diagnostic performance of VGS and quantitative indices (difference and ratio of the hepatic and splenic attenuation) to diagnose HS were evaluated using multi-reader multi-case receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis (reference: pathology). The interobserver agreement was assessed using Fleiss κ statistics. Results: Using the VGS, all six reviewers showed areas under the ROC curves (AUROCs) higher than 0.9 for diagnosing total steatosis (TS) ≥ 30%, macrovesicular steatosis (MaS) ≥ 30%, and MaS ≥ 10%. No difference was noted between the AUROCs of the VGS and quantitative indices (p ≥ 0.1). The reviewers showed substantial agreement (Fleiss κ, 0.61). Most discrepancies occurred between the two lowest grades of VGS (81.5%; 233/283), in which most subjects (97.0%; 226/233) had a MaS < 10%. The average-reader sensitivity and specificity of the VGS were 0.80 and 0.94 to detect TS ≥ 30% and 0.93 and 0.81 to detect MaS ≥ 10%. Conclusion: VGS was reliable and reproducible in assessing HS. It may be useful as a non-invasive and simple tool for comprehensive HS assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the growing demand for specialty cut flowers, floral crops are increasingly produced in semiarid areas where soil salinity can impact crop timing, reduce stem length, and decrease yield. The goal of this study was to investigate the salinity sensitivity of ‘Carmel’ and ‘Galilee’ anemone (Anemone coronaria), and ‘Amandine’ and ‘LaBelle’ ranunculus (Ranunculus asiaticus) with respect to physiological characteristics and marketable yield. Nine plants were irrigated weekly for 8 weeks with a nutrient (control) solution with an electrical conductivity (EC) of 0.5 dS⋅m–1 or saline solutions prepared by adding sodium chloride and calcium chloride dihydrate to a nutrient solution to obtain an EC of 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4.5, or 5.5 dS⋅m–1. Yield was evaluated by dividing stems into marketable and cull grades based on length and bloom quality. At the end of the study, the visual quality of the plants was scored, and gas exchange data were collected using a portable photosynthesis system. Cultivars of each species responded similarly, and marketable yields were low across all treatments, with average marketable yields (mean ± sd) of 1.7 ± 0.6 stems/plant for anemone and 1.2 ± 0.1 stems/plant for ranunculus. Visual quality (0–5 scale, with 0 = dead and 5 = excellent) decreased from 3 to 1 for anemone and 3 to 2 for ranunculus as EC increased from 0.5 to 4.5 dS⋅m–1 and 0.5 to 5.5 dS⋅m–1, respectively. Anemone leaf greenness decreased by 48%, stomatal conductance (gS) decreased by 79%, transpiration (E) decreased by 75%, and net photosynthesis (Pn) decreased by 92% when irrigation solution EC increased from 0.5 to 4.5 dS⋅m–1. The ranunculus growth index decreased by 17%, leaf greenness decreased by 45%, and E decreased by 23% as irrigation solution EC increased from 0.5 to 5.5 dS⋅m–1. Both anemone and ranunculus can be considered sensitive to salinity, indicating the importance of careful soil management in cut flower production systems in semiarid areas that are at risk for elevated soil salinity.

Purpose: The purposes of this experimental study were to compare the quantitative and qualitative visibility of in-stent restenosis between conventional-resolution CT (CRCT) and ultra-high-resolution CT (U-HRCT) and to investigate the effects of the image reconstruction techniques on the visualization of in-stent restenosis. Materials and methods: A vessel tube with non-calcified plaque in a 3.0-mm stent was scanned by using CRCT and U-HRCT at 4 stent directions (0, 30, 60, and 90 degrees) to the through-plane direction. Hybrid iterative reconstruction (HIR); model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR); deep-learning-based reconstruction (DLR) were used as reconstruction methods. The lumen size was assessed using the full width at half maximum method, and image quality was visually evaluated using 4-point scale. Results: U-HRCT had the significantly wider lumen sizes and narrower stent strut thickness than CRCT in three types of the reconstruction methods (P < 0.01). The lumen sizes for U-HRCT with 90 degrees were narrower than those with the other angle directions regardless of the reconstruction methods. Visual score was significantly higher for U-HRCT than CRCT (3.2 ± 0.7 vs 2.0 ± 0.4, P < 0.001). Conclusions: U-HRCT quantitatively and qualitatively provided better visualization of in-stent restenosis compared to CRCT. Image quality of U-HRCT may be affected by stent angle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Lung cancer is a frequent comorbidity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the local risk of developing lung cancer related to regional emphysema distribution and clinical outcome has not been investigated. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of regional emphysema score (RES) on tumor location and prognosis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Methods We enrolled 457 patients who underwent curative surgery for NSCLC at seven hospitals at The Catholic University of Korea from 2014 to 2018. Emphysema was visually assessed for each lobe, with the lingula as a separate lobe. Semi-quantitative emphysema scoring was classified as follows: 0 = none, 0.5 = 1 to 10%, 1 = 11 to 25%, 2 = 26 to 50%, 3 = 51 to 75%, and 4 = 76 to 100%. An RES was given to each of the six lung zone: the upper, middle, and lower lobes in the right and left lungs. Results There were 145 patients in the high RES (≥ 3) group and 312 in the low RES (

The minimally processed fruit and vegetable industry showed rapid growth worldwide, primarily due to the increasing consumer need for ready-to-eat fresh products characterized by high nutritional, sensory and healthy value. The postharvest life of peeled cactus pear fruits is relatively short, due to the processing operations that affect fruit integrity and cause metabolic disfunctions, as well as pulp browning, microbial growth, loss of firmness, off-flavor development, and nutraceutical value loss. In this study, we investigated the effects of mucilage-based (OFI) and calcium ascorbate edible coating on minimally processed cactus pear summer-ripening fruit, cold stored under passive atmosphere. The effect of the edible coating on the postharvest life, quality attributes, and nutraceutical value of fruit was evaluated by colors, total soluble solids content, carbohydrates; titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, betalains, DPPH, visual quality, and sensorial analysis. Our data showed a significant effect of mucilage-based and calcium ascorbate-based coating on preserving quality, nutritional value, sensorial parameters, and improving postharvest life of minimally processed cactus pear fruits; OFI had the most effective barrier effect. Furthermore, both coating treatments did not negatively affect the natural taste of minimally processed cactus pear fruits, which is an important aspect regarding the use of edible coatings when taste modification is undesirable.

Road deicing salts are widely used during winter in northern China, which makes it essential to choose proper salt-tolerant plant species in urban landscapes. Columbine (Aquilegia) is a herb with high ornamental and commercial values. This study evaluated three Aquilegia species (A. oxysepala, A. parviflora, and A. viridiflora) for salt tolerance by monitoring their germination state under different electrical conductivity (EC) of 0.1 dS·m−1 (distilled water), 1.0 dS·m−1, 2.0 dS·m−1, 3.0 dS·m−1, 4.0 dS·m−1, 5.0 dS·m−1, 6.0 dS·m−1, physio-biochemical responses to different EC of 0.3 dS·m−1 (tap water), 5.0 dS·m−1, and 10.0 dS·m−1. The germination and growth parameters, visual scores, dry weight, leaf stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate, and chlorophyll contents of three species decreased under salt stress, which was opposite to the changes of electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde, proline, and soluble sugar contents. Superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activity trend differently among species. These results showed that the germination threshold of three species was 6.0 dS·m−1. A. oxysepala was the most salt-tolerant species, with a tolerance threshold of soil conductivity in 2.83 dS·m−1, followed by A. viridiflora and A. parviflora. Therefore, A. oxysepala is suitable for planting as a ground cover in urban areas where deicing salt is applied.

Background: Volumetric high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the chest has recently replaced incremental CT in the diagnostic workup of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Concomitantly, visual and quantitative scores have been proposed for disease extent assessment to ameliorate disease management. Purpose: To compare the performance of density histograms (mean lung attenuation, skewness, and kurtosis) and visual scores, along with lung function correlations, in IPF patients submitted to incremental or volumetric thorax HRCT. Material and methods: Clinical data and CT scans of 89 newly diagnosed and therapy-naive IPF patients were retrospectively evaluated. Results: Forty-six incremental and 43 volumetric CT scans were reviewed. No differences of density histograms and visual scores estimates were found by comparing two HRCT techniques, with an optimal inter-operator agreement (concordance correlation coefficient >0.90 in all instances). Single-breath diffusing lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCOsb) was inversely related with the Best score (r = −00.416; p = 0.014), the Kazerooni fibrosis extent (r = −0.481; p = 0.004) and the mean lung attenuation (r = −0.382; p = 0.026), while a positive correlation was observed with skewness (r = 0.583; p = 0.001) and kurtosis (r = 0.543; p = 0.001) in the incremental HRCT sub-group. Similarly, in the volumetric CT sub-cohort, DLCOsb was significantly associated with skewness (r = 0.581; p = 0.007) and kurtosis (r = 0.549; p = 0.018). Correlations with visual scores were not confirmed. Forced vital capacity significantly related to all density indices independently on HRCT technique. Conclusions: Density histograms and visual scores similarly perform in incremental and volumetric HRCT. Density quantification displays an optimal reproducibility and proves to be superior to visual scoring as more strongly correlated with lung function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The objective was to undertake the visual evaluation of soil structure in maize and forage grasses intercropping under no-tillage. The experiment was carried out in a rural property located in North Paraná State, Brazil, where there were five parallel areas with the following treatments: maize + Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu (T1), maize + Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã (T2), maize + Urochloa brizantha cv. Xaraés (T3), maize + Urochloa ruziziensis (T4), and non-intercropping maize (T5). Seeds of forage grasses were sown in April 5th, 2018 and sampling was carried out in December, 30th, 2018. Samples of 0.10 m width, 0.20 m length, and 0.25 m thickness were collected from five random locations of each experimental area and, for the visual evaluation of soil structural quality, a soil evaluation (VESS) chart was used so that visual scores were attributed to each sample. Treatments 1 and 5 received the highest scores, while treatment 3 had the lowest score and showed good structural quality and great root presence. At the superficial layer, treatment 2 had the lowest score (0.8) among treatments. For the subsuperficial layer, the scores obtained were higher than those found for the superficial layer: T3 had the lowest mean (1.5) and was significantly similar to T4 that presented a mean score of 1.7. Except for T1, which showed a similar score to non-intercropping maize (T5), the forage grasses had better visual scores. The visual evaluation of soil structure indicated that maize and forage grasses intercropping improves soil structural quality.

Sego SupremeTM is a designated plant breeding and introduction program at the Utah State University Botanical Center and the Center for Water Efficient Landscaping. This plant selection program introduces native and adapted plants to the arid West for aesthetic landscaping and water conservation. The plants are evaluated for characteristics such as color, flowering, ease of propagation, market demand, disease/pest resistance, and drought tolerance. However, salt tolerance has not been considered during the evaluation processes. Four Sego SupremeTM plants [Aquilegia barnebyi (oil shale columbine), Clematis fruticosa (Mongolian gold clematis), Epilobium septentrionale (northern willowherb), and Tetraneuris acaulis var. arizonica (Arizona four-nerve daisy)] were evaluated for salt tolerance in a greenhouse. Uniform plants were irrigated weekly with a nutrient solution at an electrical conductivity (EC) of 1.25 dS·mL1 as control or a saline solution at an EC of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, or 10.0 dS·m-1 for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks of irrigation, A. barnebyi irrigated with saline solution at an EC of 5.0 dS·m-1 had slight foliar salt damage with an average visual score of 3.7 (0 = dead; 5 = excellent), and more than 50% of the plants were dead when irrigated with saline solutions at an EC of 7.5 and 10.0 dS·m-1. However, C. fruticosa, E. septentrionale, and T. acaulis had no or minimal foliar salt damage with visual scores of 4.2, 4.1, and 4.3, respectively, when irrigated with saline solution at an EC of 10.0 dS·m-1. As the salinity levels of treatment solutions increased, plant height, leaf area, and shoot dry weight of C. fruticosa and T. acaulis decreased linearly; plant height of A. barnebyi and E. septentrionale also declined linearly, but their leaf area and shoot dry weight decreased quadratically. Compared with the control, the shoot dry weights of A. barnebyi, C. fruticosa, E. septentrionale, and T. acaulis decreased by 71.3%, 56.3%, 69.7%, and 48.1%, respectively, when irrigated with saline solution at an EC of 10.0 dS·m-1. Aquilegia barnebyi and C. fruticosa did not bloom during the experiment at all treatments. Elevated salinity reduced the number of flowers in E. septentrionale and T. acaulis. Elevated salinity also reduced the number of shoots in all four species. Among the four species, sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) concentration increased the most in A. barnebyi by 53 and 48 times, respectively, when irrigated with saline solution at an EC of 10.0 dS·m-1. In this study, C. fruticosa and T. acaulis had minimal foliar salt damage and less reduction in shoot dry weight, indicating that they are more tolerant to salinity. Epilobium septentrionale was moderately tolerant to saline solution irrigation with less foliar damage, although it had more reduction in shoot dry weight. On the other hand, A. barnebyi was the least tolerant with severe foliar damage, more reduction in shoot dry weight, and a greater concentration of Na+ and Cl-. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Provitamin A (proVA) carotenoids are converted into retinol (vitamin A) in the human body, are the subject of human nutrition studies, and are targets for biofortification of staple crops. β-Carotene has been the principal target for enhancing levels of proVA. There is recent interest in enhancing the proVA carotenoid β-cryptoxanthin since it has excellent bioavailability, and in maize may be nearly as effective as β-carotene in providing retinol to humans. This study was designed to enhance our understanding of the genetic control of: levels of β-cryptoxanthin, conversion of β-carotene into β-cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin, conversion of β-cryptoxanthin into zeaxanthin, and flux into and within the β-branch of carotenoid pathway. A biparental population derived from two inbreds with relatively high levels of β-cryptoxanthin and different ratios of β-carotene to β-cryptoxanthin and β-cryptoxanthin to zeaxanthin was studied. Three field replications of this F population were grown, grain analyzed by liquid chromatography (LC), and composite interval mapping (CIM) performed to identify 90 quantitative trait loci (QTL) for carotenoids. We detected QTL for β-carotene/(β-cryptoxanthin + zeaxanthin) and (β-carotene + β-cryptoxanthin)/zeaxanthin ratios that contain candidate gene hydroxylase 4 ( hyd4), which has not been previously associated with QTL for carotenoids in maize grain. Two color assessment methods, visual score and chromameter reading, were used to phenotype one replicate of the population for initial assessment as simple alternative measuring procedures. A common finding for LC and chromameter analysis included QTL on chromosome 5 that contain candidate gene lycopene β cyclase ( lcyβ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Com os objetivos de estimar parâmetros genéticos e avaliar a tendência genética e a fenotípica para as características peso ao nascer (PN), ganho médio diário do nascimento à desmama (GMDND), peso à desmama ajustado para 205 dias (P205) e para os escores visuais de conformação, precocidade, musculatura e tamanho, na fase pré-desmama, foram utilizados 23.176 registros de animais da raça Aberdeen Angus, nascidos entre 1994 e 2004. Os componentes de (co)variância foram estimados pelo REML, utilizando-se um modelo animal. As herdabilidades diretas variaram de 0,10 (musculatura) a 0,27 (PN) e as maternas, de 0,07 (GMDND) a 0,21(P205). As correlações genéticas entre GMDND e os escores visuais variaram de 0,55 a 0,66 e para os escores visuais entre si, de 0,50 a 0,92. As tendências genéticas para PN, GMDND, P205 foram 17,5; 1,1 e 220,9 (g/ano) e para os escores visuais as tendências genéticas foram próximas de zero; as fenotípicas foram 29,8; -3,3 e 467,9 (g/ano). As herdabilidades diretas estimadas sugerem ser possível obter ganho genético por meio da seleção, embora com pequeno ganho para os escores visuais. As correlações genéticas entre GMDND e os escores visuais indicam que a seleção para a primeira promove melhoria nos escores visuais e vice versa. As tendências genéticas indicam progresso genético, porém, as fenotípicas, negativas para algumas características, sugerem a necessidade de melhorias nas condições de ambiente para viabilizar a expressão do genótipo.To estimate genetic parameters and to evaluate the genetic and phenotypic progress for the traits birth weight (PN), average daily gain from birth to weaning (GMDND), weaning weight adjusted to 205 days of age (P205) and the visual scores for conformation, precocity, musculature and size, at the pre weaning phase, there were used information from 23,176 Aberdeen Angus breed animals born between 1994 and 2004. The covariance components were obtained by REML, using an animal model. The direct and maternal heritabilities ranged from 0.10 (musculature) to 0.27 (PN) and the maternal from 0.07 (GMDND) to 0.21 (P205). The genetic correlations between GMDND and visual scores ranged from 0.55 to 0.66 and for the visual scores in between themselves from 0.50 to 0.92. The genetic trends for PN, GMDND, P205 were 17.5, 1.1, 220.9 (g/year) and for the visual scores were almost zero; the phenotypic were 29.8, -3.3, 467.9 (g/year). The estimated direct heritabilities suggest that it can be possible to get genetic gain by selection in this population, although for the visual scores the gain will be low. The genetic correlations between GMDND and visual scores show that selection for GMDND promotes improvement in visual scores and vice-versa. The genetic trends indicate genetic progress, however the phenotypic, negatives for some traits, suggest the necessity of to improve environmental conditions.

Assessment of gait abnormalities in cerebral palsy (CP) is challenging, and access to instrumented gait analysis is not always feasible. Therefore, many observational gait analysis scales have been devised. This study aimed to evaluate the interobserver reliability, intraobserver reliability, and validity of Edinburgh visual gait score (EVGS). Video of 30 children with spastic CP were reviewed by 7 raters (10 children each in GMFCS levels I, II, and III, age 6-12 years). Three observers had high level of experience in gait analysis (10+ years), two had medium level (2-5 years) and two had no previous experience (orthopedic fellows). Interobserver reliability was evaluated using percentage of complete agreement and kappa values. Criterion validity was evaluated by comparing EVGS scores with 3DGA data taken from the same video visit. Interobserver agreement was 60-90% and Kappa values were 0.18-0.85 for the 17 items in EVGS. Reliability was higher for distal segments (foot/ankle/knee 63-90%; trunk/pelvis/hip 60-76%), with greater experience (high 66-91%, medium 62-90%, no-experience 41-87%), with more EVGS practice (1st 10 videos 52-88%, last 10 videos 64-97%) and when used with higher functioning children (GMFCS I 65-96%, II 58-90%, III 35-65%). Intraobserver agreement was 64-92%. Agreement between EVGS and 3DGA was 52-73%. We believe that having EVGS as part of the standardized gait evaluation is helpful in optimizing the visual scoring. EVGS can be a supportive tool that adds quantitative data instead of only qualitative assessment to a video only gait evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Purpose Nasolabial lines ( NL) and wrinkles of the face are major features of aging. Wrinkles have been studied widely by morphological methods using 3-dimensional (3D) photographic analysis instrument, but NL were evaluated by visual scoring usually. To evaluate NL quantitatively, another method is needed. This study is purposed to find out quantitative method for evaluation of NL. Method One hundred Korean female subjects aged 20 to 60 were recruited in this study. Facial image was taken using light source adjusted VISIA- CR® and 3-dimensional wrinkle depth on the NL area was evaluated by Phase shift rapid in vivo measuring of human skin ( PRIMOS®). The pixel number of NL area and the angle were obtained using processed images. The severity of NL was assessed by visual score. Skin elasticity was measured by Cutometer® MPA580. Statistical significance was determined at P < 0.05. Result The optical images obtained by light source adjusted VISIA- CR® were easy to distinguish NL and significantly increased age-dependently. And three parameters of elasticity (R2, R5, and R7) on NL area were gradually decreased with age. The Pearson correlation coefficient was −0.756 ( P < 0.01) between R7 parameter and ages. Also the pixel number of NL area, angle, wrinkle depth on the NL area (Ra), and visual score were decreased elasticity-dependently. The pixel number of NL area was highly related to Ra ( r = 0.567, P < 0.01) and visual score ( r = 0.647, P < 0.01). Conclusion This study has shown that NL severity is related to decrease of dermal elasticity and age using quantitative new method by processing optical images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photographs of several drawings of ballades, which are created with ambient or live instrumental sounds, are presented including one that shows a repetition of the word "inspiration," another on repetition of words written in a diamond pattern, and one on a sketch of the word "Step."

Abstract: Objective: The Lund–Mackay system (L–M system) is widely used for computed tomography (CT) evaluation of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, a major drawback of the L–M system is its insufficiency of gradation. To avoid this deficiency, a new staging system proposed by American societies and the Zinreich system were reported as modifications of the L–M system. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of gradation and the accuracy of the visual quantification of these modified staging systems. Methods: Preoperative CT scanning was performed on 20 adult patients with CRS. A computer workstation was used to measure the volume of each sinus and the volume of inflammatory disease in each sinus. Then the soft tissue density rate (STDR) and objective scores, which were adapted to each system, were calculated. Visual evaluation of the CT images was performed using these systems. The visual score with each staging system and STDR value were evaluated for a correlation, and the rate of agreement was determined between the visual and objective scores obtained with each staging system. Results: The correlation between the visual scores and the STDR values was shown with all staging system including L–M system. The coefficients of correlation between the visual scores and the STDR values with these modified systems were higher than with the L–M system. While the agreement rates with these modified systems were significantly lower than with the L–M system, differences of 2 or greater between the subjective and objective scores were rare. Conclusion: We cannot conclude that one of these three staging systems is superior to the other. With this study, the simple grading system such L–M staging score was considered easy and accurate method to use the clinical level. The modified staging systems showed more efficient ability to gradate in evaluating rhinosinusitis inflammation compared with the L–M system and also showed acceptable accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Genetic parameters for hip height (HH), finishing precocity score (PRE), muscling score (MUS), bone score (BONE), and probability of pregnancy at 14 months (HP) were estimated using records of 121,086 Nelore animals born between 1984 and 2008 on 12 farms from three Brazilian states. The Bayesian linear-threshold analysis via the Gibbs sampler was used to estimate the (co)variance components applying a multi-trait animal model. Posterior mean estimates of heritability for HH, PRE, MUS, BONE, and HP were 0.36, 0.26, 0.26, 0.26, and 0.50, respectively. Therefore, the genetic improvement of these traits is possible. The genetic correlations between all traits studied were of low to high magnitude. High genetic correlations were observed between visual scores (0.85 and 0.99). Therefore, the simultaneous inclusion of PRE, MUS and BONE in a selection index does not seem to be necessary for the present population. The genetic correlation of HP with HH and visual scores ranged from −0.06 to 0.25, indicating that selection for traits related to body structure and conformation has little or no effect on HP. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate and estimate the influence of type of lambing, age at weaning and age of the dam at lambing on conformation (C), precocity (P), musculature (M), and to estimate the heritability coefficients and genetic correlations among these traits, in Suffolk lambs. For the analysis of environmental effects and genetic parameters, the contemporary group was considered as a fixed effect, whereas covariates included the linear effects of type of lambing and age at weaning and the linear and quadratic effects of the age of dam at lambing. Lambs born as singletons received the highest scores in all three studied traits when compared to those from multiple lambings. Similar effects were observed for late-weaning lambs. 4–5 years old dams promoted the highest scores for their lambs. Heritability coefficients were 0.15, 0.18, and 0.16 for C, P, and M, respectively, indicating possibility of genetic gain through individual selection. Estimates of genetic correlation between these traits were positive and of high magnitude, varying from 0.83 to 0.95, showing that the studied traits are controlled, in part, by the same sets of genes and, therefore, there is the possibility of correlated response. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Physiological responses to salinity stress were evaluated in six rice genotypes differing in their tolerance to salinity at the seedling stage. Susceptible genotypes ('Dongjingbyeo', 'Hwayeongbyeo', and 'IR29') showed salt injury symptoms (mean 8.8) and higher visual score under salt stress than that of tolerant ones ('Pokkali', 'IR74009', and 'IR73571'). As salinity affects growth and physiological parameters, the six genotypes thus showed significant reduction because of salt stress. Tolerant Japonica/Indica bred lines ('IR74009', 'IR73571') showed lower reduction, 33.9%, 34.5%, and 50%, respectively, in plant seedling height, dry shoot weight and dry root weight than those of the susceptible Japonica varieties ('Dongjingbyeo', 'Hwayeongbyeo'), and the highest reduction under salt stress was observed in dry root weight, followed by dry shoot weight and seedling height, respectively. Shoot Na+ concentration of IR74099 and IR73571 was lower than that of the susceptible varieties, 'Dongjinbyeo' and 'Hwayeongbyeo'. There were no significant differences among genotypes in root Na+ concentration. Shoot K+ concentration showed a reverse tendency compared to shoot Na+ concentration. IR74009 and IR73571 had considerably lower ratio compared to 'Dongjinbyeo' and 'Hwayeongbyeo' in Na+/K+ ratio of their shoot and was not different the tolerant check, 'Pokkali'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major public health problem. This study was performed to determine whether the low attenuation area (LAA) and visual score provided by low-dose computed tomography (CT) can be used to detect occult parenchymal disease, such as insidious COPD. Methods: Each participant underwent low-dose CT scan and pulmonary function tests. The LAA% of the corresponding lung area was calculated. The cut-off level between the normal lung density area and LAA was defined as –960 HU, and the severity of emphysematous change (visual score) and LAA% were evaluated on three same chest CT slices obtained at full inspiration. Results: Forty-eight of 2,247 individuals including 1058 non-smokers and 1189 smokers were diagnosed with COPD. Chest CT findings in individuals diagnosed with COPD showed centrilobular emphysema (50%), however, 17 of the subjects diagnosed with COPD had normal screening CT findings. Thirty-one subjects diagnosed with COPD showed a positive visual score, and 27 individuals with COPD showed LAA% of more than 30. Nine of 17 subjects with a negative visual score showed LAA% of more than 30. The visual score in smokers was significantly higher than that of non-smokers. The lung function in smokers was lower than that of non-smokers. Smokers also showed higher frequencies of chest CT abnormalities. Conclusion: Low-dose CT scans detected LAA and a positive visual score before COPD associated with an impaired lung function develops. Smokers with normal spirometry had a potential to develop an airflow obstruction accompanied with abnormal CT findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]