bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Susceptibility to Pyrethroids and the First Report of L1014F kdr Mutation inCulex quinquefasciatus(Diptera: Culicidae) in Colombia
Authors: Maestre-Serrano Ronald , Lara-Cobos Juan , Gomez-Camargo Doris , Ponce-Garcia Gustavo , Pareja-Loaiza Paula , Flores Adriana E
Published: June 2020

The use of insecticides for the control of Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) in Colombia has indirectly influenced the susceptibility status of Culex quinquefasciatus Say populations. We evaluated pyrethroid susceptibility in two populations of Cx. quinquefasciatus in the Atlantico Department of Colombia and its possible resistance mechanism (kdr mutation). Bottle bioassays were performed for permethrin, deltamethrin, and λ-cyhalothrin in female mosquitoes of Cx. quinquefasciatus. The resistance ratios (RRs) for KC50 and LC50 for each insecticide in the field populations examined were determined, using the Cartagena strain as the susceptible control. The L1014F kdr mutation was identified in the para gene of the voltage-gated sodium channel (vgsc), along with its allelic and genotypic frequency. Low knockdown resistance (RRKC50) to deltamethrin was found in Puerto Colombia and Soledad populations as well as low resistance to λ-cyalothrin in this latter population. Moderate knockdown resistance to permethrin was found in both populations. At 24 h post-exposure on the other hand, there was low resistance (RRLC50) to permethrin in Puerto Colombia and moderate resistance in Soledad. Moderate resistance to deltamethrin was found in Puerto Colombia and low resistance in Soledad. Low resistance to λ-cyhalothrin was seen in Puerto Colombia and moderate resistance in Soledad. Variability was found in the susceptibility to the pyrethroids in the populations of Cx. quinquefasciatus evaluated, and the L1014F kdr mutation is reported for the first time as a possible pyrethroid resistance mechanism in this species in Colombia.
Selection, Reversion, and Characterization of House Fly (Diptera: Muscidae) Behavioral Resistance to the Insecticide Imidacloprid
Authors: Hubbard Caleb B , Gerry Alec C
Published: June 2020

Insecticide resistance in pest populations is an increasing problem in both urban and rural settings caused by over-application of insecticides and lack of rotation among chemical classes. The house fly (Musca domestica L.) is a cosmopolitan fly species implicated in the transmission of numerous pathogens, and which can be extremely pestiferous when present in high numbers. The evolution of insecticide resistance has long been documented in house flies, with resistance reported to all major insecticide classes. House fly resistance to imidacloprid, the most widely used neonicotinoid insecticide available for fly control, has been selected for in field populations through both physiological and behavioral resistance mechanisms. In the current study, house flies collected from a southern California dairy were selectively bred for behavioral resistance to imidacloprid, without increasing the physiological resistance profile of the selected flies. Flies were also successfully selected for behavioral susceptibility to imidacloprid. The rapid selection for either behavioral resistance or behavioral susceptibility suggests that inheritable alleles conferring behavioral resistance were already present in the wild-type fly population collected from the dairy site. The methods used for the specific selection of behavioral resistance (or susceptibility) in the fly population will be useful for further studies on the specific mechanisms conferring this resistance. House fly behavioral resistance was further investigated using behavioral observation and feeding preference assays, with resistance determined to be both contact-dependent and specific to the insecticide (imidacloprid) rather than to a non-insecticidal component of a bait matrix as previously documented.
The DYW-subgroup pentatricopeptide repeat protein PPR27 interacts with ZmMORF1 to facilitate mitochondrial RNA editing and seed development in maize
Authors: Liu Rui , Cao Shi-Kai , Sayyed Aqib , Yang Huan-Huan , Zhao Jiao , Wang Xiaomin , Jia Ru-Xue , Sun Feng , Tan Bao-Cai
Published: June 2020

C-to-U RNA editing in plant mitochondria requires the participation of many nucleus-encoded factors, most of which are pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins. There is a large number of PPR proteins and the functions many of them are unknown. Here, we report a mitochondrion-localized DYW-subgroup PPR protein, PPR27, which functions in the editing of multiple mitochondrial transcripts in maize. The ppr27 mutant is completely deficient in C-to-U editing at the ccmFN-1357 and rps3-707 sites, and editing at six other sites is substantially reduced. The lack of editing at ccmFN-1357 causes a deficiency of CcmFN protein. As CcmFN functions in the maturation pathway of cytochrome proteins that are subunits of mitochondrial complex III, its deficiency results in an absence of cytochrome c1 and cytochrome c proteins. Consequently, the assembly of mitochondrial complex III and super-complex I+III2 is decreased, which impairs the electron transport chain and respiration, leading to arrests in embryogenesis and endosperm development in ppr27. In addition, PPR27 was found to physically interact with ZmMORF1, which interacts with ZmMORF8, suggesting that these three proteins may facilitate C-to-U RNA editing via the formation of a complex in maize mitochondria. This RNA editing is essential for complex III assembly and seed development in maize.
A rice small GTPase, Rab6a, is involved in the regulation of grain yield and iron nutrition in response to CO2 enrichment
Authors: Yang An , Li Qian , Chen Lei , Zhang Wen-Hao
Published: June 2020

Despite extensive studies on the effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations ([CO2]) on rice, the molecular mechanisms and signaling events underlying the adaptation of plants remain largely elusive. Here, we report that OsRab6a, which encodes a small GTPase, is involved in the regulation of rice growth, grain yield, and accumulation of iron (Fe) in response to elevated [CO2] (e[CO2]). We generated transgenic plants with OsRab6a-overexpression (-OE) together with OsRab6a-RNAi lines, and found no differences in growth and grain yield among them and wild-type (WT) plants under ambient [CO2] conditions. Under e[CO2] conditions, growth and grain yield of the WT and OsRab6a-OE plants were enhanced, with a greater effect being observed in the latter. In contrast, there were no effects of e[CO2] on growth and grain yield of the OsRab6a-RNAi plants. Photosynthetic rates in both the WT and OsRab6a-OE plants were stimulated by e[CO2], with the magnitude of the increase being higher in OsRab6a-OE plants. Fe concentrations in vegetative tissues and the grain of the WT and transgenic plants were reduced by e[CO2], and the magnitude of the decrease was lower in the OE plants than in the WT and RNAi plants. Genes associated with Fe acquisition in the OsRab6a-OE lines exhibited higher levels of expression than those in the WT and the RNAi lines under e[CO2]. Analysis of our data using Dunnett’s multiple comparison test suggested that OsRab6a is an important molecular regulator that underlies the adaptation of rice to e[CO2] by controlling photosynthesis and Fe accumulation.
Feminismo y Tecnología: Software Libre y Cultura Hacker Como Medio Para la Apropiación Tecnológica, Una Propuesta Hackfeminista
Authors: Soria Guzmán Irene
Published: June 2020

Este trabajo parte de un proyecto de investigación dentro del Doctorado de Estudios Feministas en la Ciudad de México y que hasta el día de hoy sigue en proceso. En él propongo replantear la relación entre mujeres y tecnología computacional en tiempos del capitalismo de datos, atravesado por la postura política que supone el feminismo, tomando en consideración: 1) la problematización en torno al dominio de la técnica en las mujeres; 2) los obstáculos para un conocimiento profundo de la tecnología computacional en tanto cierre de código de programación; y 3) la posibilidad de una autonomía tecnológica en el movimiento feminista del siglo XXI a partir del conocimiento situado y la experiencia. Todo ello echando mano de los principios de la cultura hacker y el movimiento del software libre, y quizá con ello, esbozar los ejes de una posible nueva lucha hackfeminista.
Power and proliferation: Explaining the fragmentation of global migration governance
Authors: Kainz Lena , Betts Alexander
Published: June 2020

Fragmentation is widely recognised as one of the defining characteristics of global migration governance. However, there has been little academic analysis of fragmentation, either as a dependent or independent variable in the international politics of migration. We aim to explain why it is that global migration governance has historically emerged as a patchwork of international institutions. In order to do so, we outline an original theoretical framework based on the proposition that power asymmetries between predominantly ‘sending’ and ‘receiving’ countries create a dynamic in which relatively weak states seek multilateralism and relatively strong states veto multilateralism, leading to institutional proliferation as a means to address immediate functional challenges. We apply this framework to four key historical turning points in the recent history of global migration governance: first, the impasse at the United Nations and the expansion of Regional Consultative Processes (1985–2001); second, the surge of new mandate creations and the first High-Level Dialogue on Migration and Development (1999–2006); third, the establishment of the Global Forum on Migration and Development and the Global Migration Group (2006–8); and finally, the New York Declaration and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (2016–18).
Swirls of FIRE: spatially resolved gas velocity dispersions and star formation rates in FIRE-2 disc environments
Authors: Orr Matthew E , Hayward Christopher C , Medling Anne M , Gurvich Alexander B , Hopkins Philip F , Murray Norman , Pineda Jorge L , Faucher-Giguère Claude-André , Kereš Dušan , Wetzel Andrew , Su Kung-Yi
Published: June 2020

We study the spatially resolved (sub-kpc) gas velocity dispersion (σ)–star formation rate (SFR) relation in the FIRE-2 (Feedback in Realistic Environments) cosmological simulations. We specifically focus on Milky Way-mass disc galaxies at late times (z ≈ 0). In agreement with observations, we find a relatively flat relationship, with σ ≈ 15–30 km s−1 in neutral gas across 3 dex in SFRs. We show that higher dense gas fractions (ratios of dense gas to neutral gas) and SFRs are correlated at constant σ. Similarly, lower gas fractions (ratios of gas to stellar mass) are correlated with higher σ at constant SFR. The limits of the σ–ΣSFR relation correspond to the onset of strong outflows. We see evidence of ‘on-off’ cycles of star formation in the simulations, corresponding to feedback injection time-scales of 10–100 Myr, where SFRs oscillate about equilibrium SFR predictions. Finally, SFRs and velocity dispersions in the simulations agree well with feedback-regulated and marginally stable gas disc (Toomre’s Q = 1) model predictions, and the simulation data effectively rule out models assuming that gas turns into stars at (low) constant efficiency (i.e. 1 per cent per free-fall time). And although the simulation data do not entirely exclude gas accretion/gravitationally powered turbulence as a driver of σ, it appears to be subdominant to stellar feedback in the simulated galaxy discs at z ≈ 0.
Imaging systematics and clustering of DESI main targets
Authors: Kitanidis Ellie , White Martin , Feng Yu , Schlegel David , Guy Julien , Dey Arjun , Landriau Martin , Brooks David , Levi Michael , Moustakas John , Prada Francisco , Tarle Gregory , Weaver Benjamin Alan
Published: June 2020

We evaluate the impact of imaging systematics on the clustering of luminous red galaxies (LRG), emission-line galaxies (ELG), and quasars (QSO) targeted for the upcoming Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) survey. Using Data Release 7 of the DECam Legacy Survey, we study the effects of astrophysical foregrounds, stellar contamination, differences between north galactic cap and south galactic cap measurements, and variations in imaging depth, stellar density, galactic extinction, seeing, airmass, sky brightness, and exposure time before presenting survey masks and weights to mitigate these effects. With our sanitized samples in hand, we conduct a preliminary analysis of the clustering amplitude and evolution of the DESI main targets. From measurements of the angular correlation functions, we determine power law fits $r_0 = 7.78 \pm 0.26\, h^{-1}$Mpc, γ = 1.98 ± 0.02 for LRGs and $r_0 = 5.45 \pm 0.1\, h^{-1}$Mpc, γ = 1.54 ± 0.01 for ELGs. Additionally, from the angular power spectra, we measure the linear biases and model the scale-dependent biases in the weakly non-linear regime. Both sets of clustering measurements show good agreement with survey requirements for LRGs and ELGs, attesting that these samples will enable DESI to achieve precise cosmological constraints. We also present clustering as a function of magnitude, use cross-correlations with external spectroscopy to infer dN/dz and measure clustering as a function of luminosity, and probe higher order clustering statistics through counts-in-cells moments.
The lifetimes of planetary debris discs around white dwarfs
Authors: Veras Dimitri , Heng Kevin
Published: June 2020

The lifetime of a planetary disc that orbits a white dwarf represents a crucial input parameter into evolutionary models of that system. Here we apply a purely analytical formalism to estimate lifetimes of the debris phase of these discs, before they are ground down into dust or are subject to sublimation from the white dwarf. We compute maximum lifetimes for three different types of white dwarf discs, formed from (i) radiative YORP break-up of exo-asteroids along the giant branch phases at 2–100 au, (ii) radiation-less spin-up disruption of these minor planets at ${\sim} 1.5\!-\!4.5\, \mathrm{R}_{\odot }$, and (iii) tidal disruption of minor or major planets within about $1.3\, \mathrm{R}_{\odot }$. We display these maximum lifetimes as a function of disc mass and extent, constituent planetesimal properties, and representative orbital excitations of eccentricity and inclination. We find that YORP discs with masses of up to 1024 kg live long enough to provide a reservoir of surviving cm-sized pebbles and m- to km-sized boulders that can be perturbed intact to white dwarfs with cooling ages of up to 10 Gyr. Debris discs formed from the spin or tidal disruption of these minor planets or major planets can survive in a steady state for up to, respectively, 1 or 0.01 Myr, although most tidal discs would leave a steady state within about 1 yr. Our results illustrate that dust-less planetesimal transit detections are plausible, and would provide particularly robust evolutionary constraints. Our formalism can easily be adapted to individual systems and future discoveries.
Eccentricity distribution of wide low-mass binaries
Authors: Tokovinin Andrei
Published: June 2020

Distribution of eccentricities of very wide (up to 10 kau) low-mass binaries in the solar neighbourhood is studied using the catalogue of El-Badry and Rix (2018) based on Gaia. Direction and speed of relative motions in wide pairs contain statistical information on the eccentricity distribution, otherwise inaccessible owing to very long orbital periods. It is found that the eccentricity distribution is close to the linear (thermal) one f(e) = 2e. However, pairs with projected separations <200 au have less eccentric orbits, while f(e) for wide pairs with s > 1 kau appears to be slightly superthermal, with an excess of very eccentric orbits. Eccentricity of any wide binary can be constrained statistically using direction and speed of its motion. The thermal eccentricity distribution signals an important role of the stellar dynamics in the formation of wide binaries, although disc-assisted capture also can produce such pairs with eccentric orbits.
The N-Terminal Acetyltransferase Naa50 Regulates Arabidopsis Growth and Osmotic Stress Response
Authors: Feng Jinlin , Hu Jianxin , Li Yan , Li Ruiqi , Yu Hao , Ma Ligeng
Published: June 2020

N-terminal acetylation (Nt-acetylation) is one of the most common protein modifications in eukaryotes. The function of Naa50, the catalytic subunit of the evolutionarily conserved N-terminal acetyltransferase (Nat) E complex, has not been reported in Arabidopsis. In this study, we found that a loss of Naa50 resulted in a pleiotropic phenotype that included dwarfism and sterility, premature leaf senescence and a shortened primary root. Further analysis revealed that root cell patterning and various root cell properties were severely impaired in naa50 mutant plants. Moreover, defects in auxin distribution were observed due to the mislocalization of PIN auxin transporters. In contrast to its homologs in yeast and animals, Naa50 showed no co-immunoprecipitation with any subunit of the Nat A complex. Moreover, plants lacking Naa50 displayed hypersensitivity to abscisic acid and osmotic stress. Therefore, our results suggest that protein N-terminal acetylation catalyzed by Naa50 plays an essential role in Arabidopsis growth and osmotic stress responses.
Meta-analysis Comparing Celecoxib with Diclofenac Sodium in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Huang Hetao , Luo Minghui , Liang Haodong , Pan Jianke , Yang Weiyi , Zeng Lingfeng , Liang Guihong , Hou Senrong , Zhao Jinlong , Liu Jun
Published: June 2020

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of celecoxib and diclofenac sodium in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Methods

Clinical controlled trials (CCTs) and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from online databases comparing the efficacy of celecoxib and diclofenac sodium in the treatment of KOA were retrieved. The main outcomes included the treatment effect, C-reactive protein (CRP) level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), visual analog scale (VAS) score, and complication rate. The Cochrane risk of bias (ROB) tool in Review Manager 5.3.5 was used to assess methodological quality.

Results

Twelve studies (N = 2,350) were included in this meta-analysis. The meta-analysis indicated that celecoxib reduced pain more effectively than diclofenac sodium in patients with KOA, as evaluated by the VAS score. In addition, celecoxib has certain advantages in terms of better treatment effects and greater reductions in the ESR, CRP level, and complication rate.

Conclusions

Celecoxib is superior to diclofenac sodium in the treatment of KOA. However, well-designed and high-quality RCTs are still needed.
Prevalence, Characteristics, and Management of Chronic Noncancer Pain Among People Who Use Drugs: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kaboré Jean-Luc , Dassieu Lise , Roy Élise , Jutras-Aswad Didier , Bruneau Julie , Pagé M Gabrielle , Choinière Manon
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Most studies on chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) in people who use drugs (PWUD) are restricted to people attending substance use disorder treatment programs. This study assessed the prevalence of CNCP in a community-based sample of PWUD, identified factors associated with pain, and documented strategies used for pain relief.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study nested in an ongoing cohort of PWUD in Montreal, Canada. Questionnaires were administered to PWUD seen between February 2017 and January 2018. CNCP was defined as pain lasting three or more months and not associated with cancer.

Results

A total of 417 PWUD were included (mean age = 44.6 ± 10.6 years, 84% men). The prevalence of CNCP was 44.8%, and the median pain duration (interquartile range) was 12 (5–18) years. The presence of CNCP was associated with older age (>45 years old; odds ratio [OR] = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.2–2.7), male sex (OR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.2–4.2), poor health condition (OR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.3–3.0), moderate to severe psychological distress (OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.8–4.7), and less frequent cocaine use (OR = 0.5, 95% CI = 0.3–0.9). Among CNCP participants, 20.3% used pain medication from other people, whereas 22.5% used alcohol, cannabis, or illicit drugs to relieve pain. Among those who asked for pain medication (N = 24), 29.2% faced a refusal from the doctor.

Conclusions

CNCP was common among PWUD, and a good proportion of them used substances other than prescribed pain medication to relieve pain. Close collaboration of pain and addiction specialists as well as better pain assessment and access to nonpharmacological treatments could improve pain management in PWUD.
PT-symmetric non-Hermitian quantum many-body system using ultracold atoms in an optical lattice with controlled dissipation
Authors: Takasu Yosuke , Yagami Tomoya , Ashida Yuto , Hamazaki Ryusuke , Kuno Yoshihito , Takahashi Yoshiro
Published: June 2020

We report our realization of a parity–time (PT)-symmetric non-Hermitian many-body system using cold atoms with dissipation. After developing a theoretical framework on PT-symmetric many-body systems using ultracold atoms in an optical lattice with controlled dissipation, we describe our experimental setup utilizing one-body atom loss as dissipation with special emphasis on calibration of important system parameters. We discuss loss dynamics observed experimentally.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined With Therapeutic Exercise in Chronic Low Back Pain: Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Cavalcante Polyanna Gomes Lacerda , Baptista Abrahão Fontes , Cardoso Vinícius Saura , Filgueiras Marcelo de Carvalho , Hasue Renata Hydee , João Silvia Maria Amado , Hazime Fuad Ahmad
Published: June 2020

Objective

Although some studies have shown the clinical benefits of therapeutic exercise in chronic nonspecific low back pain, the effect sizes are generally small to moderate and recurrence rates are high. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been used to modulate pain-processing systems and motor outputs and has the potential to optimize the clinical benefits of therapeutic exercise. However, evidence for this combination is still lacking. The purpose of this protocol for a randomized clinical trial is to investigate whether the combination of tDCS and therapeutic exercise is more effective in relieving pain than therapeutic exercise alone.

Methods

This 2-arm, randomized controlled clinical trial will take place at the Federal University of Piauí, Brazil. Sixty patients will be randomized into 2 groups to receive tDCS (real/sham) + exercise therapies for 12 sessions over a period of 4 weeks. Pain intensity, sensory and affective aspects of pain, physical functioning, kinesiophobia, and global perceived effect will be recorded before treatment and at 4 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after randomization. Data will be collected by an examiner unaware of (blind to) the treatment allocation.

Impact

This trial can potentially provide important information and assist in clinical decision-making on the combined use of tDCS to optimize the clinical benefits of therapeutic exercise in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.
Use of Physician Global Assessment in systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review of its psychometric properties
Authors: Chessa Elisabetta , Piga Matteo , Floris Alberto , Devilliers Hervé , Cauli Alberto , Arnaud Laurent
Published: June 2020

Objective

The Physician Global Assessment (PGA) is a visual analogue score that reflects the clinician’s judgement of overall SLE disease activity. The aim of this systematic literature review is to describe and analyse the psychometric properties of the PGA.

Methods

This systematic literature review was conducted by two independent reviewers in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. All articles published through 1 July 2019 in PubMed were screened, with no limitation on year of publication, language or patients’ age. Psychometric properties data were analysed according to the OMERACT Filter methodology version 2.1.

Results

The literature search identified 91 studies. Face validity was reported in all the articles retrieved in which the PGA was used alone or as part of composite indices (Systemic Responder Index, Safety of Estrogen in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment Flare Index, Lupus Low Disease Activity State, Definitions of Remission in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus criteria). Content validity was reported in 89 studies. Construct validity was demonstrated by a good correlation (r ≥ 0.50) between the PGA with the SLEDAI (12 studies), SLAM (4 studies), LAI, BILAG and ECLAM (2 studies each). Criterion validity was assessed exploring the PGA correlation with quality of life measurements, biomarker levels and treatment changes in 28 studies, while no study has evaluated correlation with damage. A good responsiveness for PGA was shown in eight studies. A high variability in scales was found, causing a wide range of reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.67–0.98).

Conclusion

PGA is a valid, responsive and feasible instrument, though its reliability was impacted by the scale adopted, suggesting the major need for standardization of its scoring.
Physiological characteristics and RNA sequencing in two root zones with contrasting nitrate assimilation of Populus × canescens
Authors: Zhou Jing , Lu Yan , Shi Wen-Guang , Deng Shu-Rong , Luo Zhi-Bin
Published: June 2020

Different root zones have distinct capacities for nitrate (NO3−) uptake in Populus species, but the underlying physiological and microRNA (miRNA) regulatory mechanisms remain largely unknown. To address this question, two root zones of Populus × canescens (Ait.) Smith. with contrasting capacities for NO3− uptake were investigated. The region of 0–40 mm (root zone I) to the root apex displayed net influxes, whereas the region of 40–80 mm (root zone II) exhibited net effluxes. Concentrations of NO3− and ammonium (NH4+) as well as nitrate reductase activity were lower in zone II than in zone I. Forty one upregulated and twenty three downregulated miRNAs, and 576 targets of these miRNAs were identified in zone II in comparison with zone I. Particularly, growth-regulating factor 4 (GRF4), a target of upregulated ptc-miR396g-5p and ptc-miR396f_L + 1R-1, was downregulated in zone II in comparison with zone I, probably contributing to lower NO3− uptake rates and assimilation in zone II. Furthermore, several miRNAs and their targets, members of C2H2 zinc finger family and APETALA2/ethylene-responsive element binding protein family, were found in root zones, which probably play important roles in regulating NO3− uptake. These results indicate that differentially expressed miRNA–target pairs play key roles in regulation of distinct NO3− uptake rates and assimilation in different root zones of poplars.
Reducing Chlorothalonil Use in Fungicide Spray Programs for Powdery Mildew, Anthracnose, and Gummy Stem Blight in Melons
Authors: Jones Jake G. , Korir Robert C. , Walter Taylor L. , Everts Kathryne L.
Published: June 2020

Fungicides are applied to nearly 80% of U.S. melon acreage to manage the numerous foliar and fruit diseases that threaten yield. Chlorothalonil is the most widely used fungicide but has been associated with negative effects on human and bee health. We designed alternative fungicide programs to examine the impact of reducing chlorothalonil use (Bravo Weather Stik) on watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew melon in 2016, 2017, and 2018 in Maryland. Chlorothalonil was replaced in the tank mix of weekly sprays of targeted fungicides with either polyoxin D zinc salt (Oso) or an extract of Reynoutria sachalinensis (Regalia). Powdery mildew (PM; Podosphaera xanthii), gummy stem blight (GSB; Stagonosporopsis spp.), and anthracnose (Colletotrichum orbiculare) were the most prevalent diseases to occur in the 3 years. Replacing chlorothalonil with the biopesticides as the tank-mix component of the fungicide spray program was successful in reducing GSB and PM severity in cantaloupe, honeydew melon, and watermelon compared with the untreated control, with the exception of GSB in 2017 in cantaloupe, and similar to the program including chlorothalonil in all cases, except anthracnose in watermelon. Anthracnose disease severity was not significantly reduced compared with the untreated control when chlorothalonil was replaced with the biopesticides and yields were not improved over the chlorothalonil-alone treatment in any of the trials. Therefore, replacement of chlorothalonil may not fully address its loss as a fungicide resistance management tool but efficacy can be maintained when polyoxin D is alternated with R. sachalinensis as a tank mix with targeted fungicides to manage PM and GSB.
Rates of Maternal and Perinatal Mortality and Vertical Transmission in Pregnancies Complicated by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-Co-V-2) Infection
Authors: Huntley Benjamin J. F. , Huntley Erin S. , Di Mascio Daniele , Chen Tracy , Berghella Vincenzo , Chauhan Suneet P.
Published: June 2020

OBJECTIVE:

To ascertain the frequency of maternal and neonatal complications, as well as maternal disease severity, in pregnancies affected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection.

DATA SOURCES:

MEDLINE, Ovid, ClinicalTrials.gov, MedRxiv, and Scopus were searched from their inception until April 29, 2020. The analysis was limited to reports with at least 10 pregnant patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection that reported on maternal and neonatal outcomes.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION:

Inclusion criteria were pregnant women with a confirmed diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. A systematic search of the selected databases was performed by implementing a strategy that included the MeSH terms, key words, and word variants for “coronavirus,” “SARS-CoV-2,” “COVID-19,” and “pregnancy.r The primary outcomes were maternal admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), critical disease, and death. Secondary outcomes included rate of preterm birth, cesarean delivery, vertical transmission, and neonatal death. Categorical variables were expressed as percentages with number of cases and 95% CIs.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS:

Of the 99 articles identified, 13 included 538 pregnancies complicated by SARS-CoV-2 infection, with reported outcomes on 435 (80.9%) deliveries. Maternal ICU admission occurred in 3.0% of cases (8/263, 95% CI 1.6–5.9) and maternal critical disease in 1.4% (3/209, 95% CI 0.5–4.1). No maternal deaths were reported (0/348, 95% CI 0.0–1.1). The preterm birth rate was 20.1% (57/284, 95% CI 15.8–25.1), the cesarean delivery rate was 84.7% (332/392, 95% CI 80.8–87.9), the vertical transmission rate was 0.0% (0/310, 95% CI 0.0–1.2), and the neonatal death rate was 0.3% (1/313, 95% CI 0.1–1.8).

CONCLUSION:

With data from early in the pandemic, it is reassuring that there are low rates of maternal and neonatal mortality and vertical transmission with SARS-CoV-2. The preterm birth rate of 20% and the cesarean delivery rate exceeding 80% seems related to geographic practice patterns.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION:

PROSPERO, CRD42020181497.
The reduction of CA 125 serum levels in BRCA 1/2 mutation carriers after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy is only partially associated with surgery: a prospective cohort, other biomarker controlled, study
Authors: Grandi Giovanni , Del Savio Maria Chiara , Sammarini Margaret , Cortesi Laura , Toss Angela , Piombino Claudia , Facchinetti Fabio
Published: June 2020

Objectives

A significant reduction in CA 125 postoperative serum levels was observed after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) in BRCA mutation carriers. In contrast to previous studies, where control groups were absent, we conducted a prospective study including also a screening only group (RSSO refusal) and a group having previously undergone RRSO.

Methods

Consecutive BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers, not hysterectomised, >35 years old and with completed childbearing, were recruited. Some women had previously undergone RRSO (previous RRSO group). The others, who had either chosen RRSO (actual RRSO group) or screening only (screening only group), were enrolled (patient-preference trial). A prospective evaluation (basal and 6-month) of CA 125 and CEA (control biomarker) was performed.

Results

The study consisted of 116 women, 44.8% BRCA1 and 55.2% BRCA2 mutation carriers (n = 25 in the previous RRSO group, n = 29 in the actual RRSO group, n = 62 in the screening only group). For all subjects, we observed a 6-month decrease in CA 125 (−7.8%, P = 0.003), which was significantly linked only to endometriosis history (odds ratio 1.4; 95% confidence interval 1.1–1.8; P = 0.002). Between different groups, we recorded a non-significantly different decrease in CA 125. CEA showed a 6 months significant increase (+15.4%, P < 0.0001), which was similar between groups.

Conclusion

The decrease in CA 125 in BRCA mutation carriers after RRSO was only partially associated with surgery, depending also on a physiological decline: this is extremely important in their longitudinal monitoring for the prevention of ovarian cancer.
Complete response to talimogene laherparepvec in a primary acral lentiginous melanoma
Authors: Franke Viola , Smeets Philippe M.G. , van der Wal Jacqueline E. , van Akkooi Alexander C.J.
Published: June 2020

Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) is an oncolytic virus, approved for the treatment of stage IIIb-IVM1a melanoma with injectable disease (cutaneous, subcutaneous or lymphatic). It is a modified herpes simplex virus type 1 that induces tumor-specific T-cell responses via reduction of virally mediated suppression of antigen presentation, stimulation of viral pathogenicity and enhancement of tumor-selective replication. Response rates up to 82.6% have been reported for stage III disease. Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is a rare subtype of melanoma with a poor prognosis. Here, we present a case of an elderly and frail patient with primary ALM who refused surgical treatment and consented to receive T-VEC as first-line drug therapy. After 10 courses of treatment, a histopathologically confirmed complete response was achieved. To our knowledge, this is the first case ever reported in which a primary ALM is (successfully) treated with T-VEC.
Methadone for postoperative analgesia: contribution of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonism
Authors: Tognoli Emiliano , Proto Paolo L. , Motta Giuliana , Galeone Carlotta , Mariani Luigi , Valenza Franco
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Over the past number of years, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) inhibitory drugs, like ketamine, have been introduced as adjuvant treatments for postoperative acute pain, within a multimodal approach. A further extension of this strategy could be the use of opioids with NMDA receptor (NMDAr) antagonism activity for control of postoperative pain. Methadone has a unique pharmacodynamic profile: it is both a μ-agonist and an NMDAr-blocker.

OBJECTIVE

We designed this study to investigate the precise contribution of NMDAr antagonism in methadone-induced analgesia.

DESIGN

Single-centre, prospective, randomised, double-blind study.

SETTING

National Cancer Center – Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori Milano; patients were recruited between March 2010 and June 2012.

PATIENTS

Ninety-six patients scheduled for an open laparotomy for anterior resection of the rectum.

INTERVENTIONS

We randomly assigned patients to four groups: 0-Mo (placebo and morphine), K-Mo [S(+)-ketamine and morphine], 0-Me (placebo and methadone), K-Me [S(+)-ketamine and methadone].

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary end-point was the extent of mechanical static (punctuate) hyperalgesia to von Frey hair stimulation lateral to the surgical incision.

RESULTS

Peri-incisional hyperalgesia was 8.4 cm (95% confidence interval, 1.5 to 15.41) lower in the treatment group (K-Me) compared with the control group (0-Mo) at 24 h after surgery (P 
= 0.02). No significant differences were observed between the groups at 48 h after surgery (P 
= 0.88). Both groups treated with methadone had significantly lower pain during rest and movement, as measured with a Numerical Rating Scale at 24 h. At 48 h, only the movement Numerical Rating Scale was significantly lower. No difference occurred in opioid consumption.

CONCLUSION

Methadone provides effective control of acute postoperative pain, independently, by modulation of the hyperalgesia mechanism.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, no.: NCT01594047.
Primary Breast Augmentation Using Axillary Skin Incision, Submuscular Implants, and Intraoperative Tissue Expansion
Authors: Wieslander Jan B.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Primary breast augmentation in small, pointed, or tubular breasts using axillary skin incision, submuscular cohesive gel implants, and intraoperative tissue expansion dramatically reduces complications.

Methods:

A 2.5- to 3.5-cm-long incision is made in the hair-bearing part of the axillae beside a natural fold. Incisions are opened using dissection away from the axillae, and an opening is made underneath the muscle on top of the thoracic cage. Blunt finger dissection is performed, and temporary breast expanders and special dissectors are inserted. The expanders create volume and desired breast shape. Sterility is ensured by entering implant pockets only with expanders and elevators and changing gloves before placing implants. No irrigation or antibiotic solution is used on implants or in the pockets. One thousand three hundred ten breast augmentations were performed between 2004 and 2019 (including a 2-year follow-up) using textured, cohesive round implants. Patients were followed up 3–4 months postoperatively. The parameters analyzed were size, shape, firmness, scars, and sensation in the nipple areola complexes. Patients contacted the clinic if problems occurred.

Results:

Of the 1,310 patients, only 2 had a Baker grade 3–4 capsular contraction. We also found 2 cases of implant rupture at the end of the 10-year guarantee period. Implants were replaced with identical ones. No infections were seen. Six cases of implant malposition were corrected by surgery. The total number of reoperations was 10 (0.8%).

Conclusions:

The axillary skin incision is an extremely efficient technique with few complications. The lymphatic drainage system is preserved, and implant pockets are left in a virgin state.
Identification of the Fetus at Risk for Metabolic Acidemia Using Continuous Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring
Authors: ESPLIN M. SEAN
Published: June 2020

The fetal heart rate can be used to assess the current metabolic state of the fetus and predict the risk of the evolution of metabolic acidemia through the course of labor. In this chapter, we will present the pathophysiology of the development of fetal acidemia and provide an organized approach to identifying the risk of worsening acidemia using changes noted in the fetal heart rate pattern to allow for interventions that might alter this course.
Adolescents and Bone Health
Authors: GORDON REBECCA J. , GORDON CATHERINE M.
Published: June 2020

Adolescence is a critical time for the acquisition of peak bone mass. There are modifiable factors that may influence bone health in an adolescent. For those at risk for bone fragility, initial management includes optimization of calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and maintenance of a normal body weight. In certain scenarios, bisphosphonate treatment is indicated, as is reviewed. How hormonal contraceptives affect bone mineral density is unclear, but in patients with risk factors or known bone fragility, prescribers should consider their skeletal effects. Some conditions, including restrictive eating disorders and primary ovarian insufficiency, warrant long-term monitoring of bone health.
Clinical impact of sleep-disordered breathing on very short-term blood pressure variability determined by pulse transit time
Authors: Misaka Tomofumi , Niimura Yuko , Yoshihisa Akiomi , Wada Kento , Kimishima Yusuke , Yokokawa Tetsuro , Abe Satoshi , Oikawa Masayoshi , Kaneshiro Takashi , Kobayashi Atsushi , Yamaki Takayoshi , Kunii Hiroyuki , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: June 2020

Background:

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and blood pressure variability (BPV) are strongly associated with cardiovascular diseases. Recently, pulse transit time (PTT) has enabled the monitoring of beat-to-beat BP; however, little is known about its clinical utility. The present study aimed to clarify the impact of SDB on very short-term BPV determined by PTT-based BP monitoring (PTT-BP).

Methods:

We analyzed 242 patients with suspected SDB. PTT-BP was continuously recorded overnight together with a portable sleep monitor. PTT index was defined as the average number of transient rises in PTT-BP (≥12 mmHg) within 30 s/h. We compared PTT-BP values with each SDB parameter, and examined the association between BPV and subclinical organ damage.

Results:

Standard deviation (SD) of systolic, mean or diastolic PTT-BP, which indicates very short-term BPV, was significantly correlated with apnea--hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen desaturation index (ODI). PTT index was positively associated with AHI, ODI, and minimal SpO2. Regression analyses showed that AHI and ODI were significant variables to determine systolic, mean, or diastolic PTT-BP SD and PTT index. Logistic regression analyses demonstrated that diastolic PTT-BP SD significantly influenced the presence of chronic kidney disease and left ventricular hypertrophy.

Conclusion:

SDB severity was closely associated with very short-term BP variability, and diastolic PTT-BP SD might be an important factor linked to subclinical organ damage. PTT-BP measurement may be useful to evaluate very short-term BPV during the night.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms of ADIPOQ gene associated with cardiovascular disease risk factors in European adolescents: the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence study
Authors: Salazar-Tortosa Diego F. , Pascual-Gamarra Jose M. , Labayen Idoia , Rupérez Azahara I. , Censi Laura , Béghin Laurent , Michels Nathalie , González-Gross Marcela , Manios Yannis , Lambrinou Christina-Paulina , Moreno Luis A. , Meirhaeghe Aline , Castillo Manuel J. , Ruiz Jonatan R.
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are responsible of 31% of all deaths worldwide. Genetic predisposition to CVDs in adolescents remains largely unknown. Aims of present research are to examine the association ofADIPOQgene polymorphisms with cardiovascular disease risk factors in European adolescents.

Methods:

A total of 14 polymorphisms in theADIPOQgene were genotyped in 1057 European adolescents (12–18 years old) from the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence Cross-Sectional Study. We measured serum lipids and a CVD risk score, along with weight, height, triceps, and subscapular skinfold thickness, leptin, insulin and other markers of glucose regulation.

Results:

The rs822393, rs822395 and rs7649121 polymorphisms ofADIPOQgene were significantly associated with several CVD risk factors [i.e. high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), apolipoprotein (Apo) A1, SBP and CVD risk score] in European adolescents. We also found an association of the TGAAGTADIPOQhaplotype (rs822393, rs16861210, rs822395, rs822396, rs12495941 and rs7649121) with HDL-C and ApoA1 levels.

Conclusion:

Several individual polymorphisms (rs822393, rs822395 and rs7649121) and a haplotype ofADIPOQgene were significantly associated with cardiovascular disease risk factors in European adolescents.
Use of Statewide Administrative Data to Assess Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Utter Garth H. , Dhillon Tejveer S. , Danielsen Beate H. , Salcedo Edgardo S. , Shouldice Daniel J. , Humphries Misty D. , White Richard H.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Single-center comparative effectiveness studies evaluating outcomes that can occur posthospitalization may become biased if outcomes diagnosed at other facilities are not ascertained. Administrative datasets that link patients’ records across facilities may improve outcome ascertainment.

Objective:

To determine whether use of linked administrative data significantly augments thromboembolic outcome ascertainment.

Research Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Subjects:

Patients with an acute isolated calf deep vein thrombosis (DVT) diagnosed at 1 Californian center during 2010–2013.

Measures:

Proximal DVT or pulmonary embolism (PE) within 180 days. We ascertained outcomes from linked California hospitalization, emergency department, and ambulatory surgery data and compared this information to outcomes previously identified from review of the center’s medical records.

Results:

Among 384 patients with an isolated calf DVT, 333 could be linked to longitudinal administrative data records. Ten patients had a possible proximal DVT or PE (4 more clearly so) from administrative data; all were unknown from medical record review. Eleven patients with known outcomes from medical record review had no outcome from administrative data. The adjusted odds ratio of proximal DVT or PE with therapeutic anticoagulation attenuated from 0.33 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.12–0.87] using only medical record review to 0.64 (95% CI, 0.29–1.40) using both medical record review and possible outcomes from administrative data. Restricting the outcome to diagnoses clearly involving proximal DVT or PE, the adjusted odds ratio was 0.46 (95% CI, 0.19–1.10).

Conclusions:

Use of linked hospital administrative data augmented detection of outcomes but imperfect linkage, nonspecific diagnoses, and documentation/coding errors introduced uncertainty regarding the accuracy of outcome ascertainment.
Could the skewness and kurtosis texture parameters of lesions obtained from pretreatment Ga-68 DOTA-TATE PET/CT images predict receptor radionuclide therapy response in patients with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors?
Authors: Önner Hasan , Abdülrezzak Ümmühan , Tutuş Ahmet
Published: June 2020

Purpose

In our study, tumor heterogeneity was evaluated using the parameters skewness and kurtosis on pretreatment Ga-68 DOTA-TATE PET/CT to assess therapy responses of lesions in patients with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP NETs) treated with peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT).

Method

We retrospectively studied the texture analysis with relatively simple first-order parameters skewness and kurtosis on pretreatment Ga-68 DOTA-TATE PET/CT from 22 patients (eight females, 14 males; with a mean age: 54 ± 11 years) with GEP NETs who were treated with 2–6 therapy cycles of Lu-177 DOTA-TATE. A total of 326 lesions of 22 patients were evaluated in terms of treatment response by Ga-68 DOTA-TATE PET/CT examination performed before and after treatment. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to assess skewness and kurtosis to discriminate between responder and nonresponder lesions.

Result

A total of 326 lesions of 22 patients were evaluated and 137 lesions responded partially or completely to the treatment, 189 lesions did not respond to treatment, remained stable or progressed. The skewness and kurtosis values of the lesions which did not respond to the PRRT were significantly higher than those with response to PRRT treatment (P < 0.001 and P = 0.004, respectively). However, ROC curves provided a moderate area under the curve value for skewness and a relatively low value for kurtosis (0.619 and 0.518, respectively).

Conclusion

Texture analysis using skewness and kurtosis of the lesions on pretreatment Ga-68 DOTA-TATE PET/CT was able to predict their responsiveness to PRRT.