bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State of States: Landscape of University-Based Pathways to the Principalship
Authors: Anderson Erin , Budhwani Sajjid , Perrone Frank
Published: December 2020

This study describes the landscape of school leadership preparation programs in the United States, including pathways to the principalship (master’s, certification, educational specialist) and the delivery modes for each pathway (face-to-face, fully online, hybrid). First, data was collected from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data on the number of degrees and certificates awarded by every postsecondary institution receiving U.S. federal student aid from 2013 to 2018. Then program websites were searched and coded by two independent coders. All discrepancies were resolved; the final dataset was analyzed using measures of central tendency. This study found that master’s programs were the most common route to the principalship, and there were more than double the number of master’s offerings than certification and more than double as many certification offerings than educational specialist. The most common delivery modes across each pathway were, from most prevalent to least: face-to-face, fully online, and hybrid. Ten states had an offering in every pathway and modality, but no individual university offered every pathway and modality. Twenty-one states had one or more universities that offered all pathways but not all modalities. Implications are that program faculty informed decisions about what pathways and modalities to offer, these data allow for sampling techniques that can help researchers conduct more inferential studies to measure the impact of leadership preparation on school outcomes, and these data allow for research that differs by pathway, providing a more nuanced understanding of preparation. Finally, this study serves as a call for a centralized database for tracking SLPP data.
Local Ketorolac Injection vs Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Blockade as an Adjuvant to a Spinal Block in Hindfoot Arthrodesis
Authors: Chuckpaiwong Bavornrit , Harnroongroj Thos , Sirivanasandha Busara , Tharmviboonsri Theerawoot
Published: December 2020

Background:

Popliteal nerve blocks reduce pain and markedly improve postoperative outcomes during foot and ankle surgery; however, several potential complications may arise from nerve block procedures. The purpose of this study was to investigate local infiltration analgesia with ketorolac as a convenient alternative for pain relief.

Methods:

A total of 80 patients scheduled for hindfoot arthrodesis were randomly allocated to one of 2 anesthetic groups: a spinal block augmented with either a popliteal nerve block (n = 40) or local ketorolac and Marcaine infiltration (n = 40). Clinical assessment included postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores at 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 hours, total morphine consumption, time to incision (time in operating room to incision), operative time, length of hospital stay, and complications.

Results:

Despite similar morphine consumption between groups ( P = .28), VAS scores were significantly lower at 24 hours (1.6 ± 2.2 cm vs 2.7 ± 3.0 cm, P = .01) and 48 hours (0.2 ± 0.7 cm vs 1.0 ± 1.5 cm, P < .01) after surgery using local ketorolac injection. Although time from entry into the operating room to incision was also reduced after local ketorolac injection (19.0 ± 5.3 minutes vs 31.4 ± 14.6 minutes, P < .001), the length of operative time ( P = .38), hospital stay ( P = .43), and number of complications ( P = .24) were similar between groups.

Conclusion:

Ketorolac local injection provided effective pain control in hindfoot arthrodesis and markedly reduced VAS pain scores up to 48 hours after surgery compared with popliteal nerve block. In addition, ketorolac local injection also reduced time in the operating room compared with popliteal nerve blockade.

Level of Evidence:

Level 1, randomized controlled trial.
Study on the vibration isolation performance of an open trench–wave impedance block barrier using perfectly matched layer boundaries
Authors: Zhou Fengxi , Zhou Zhixiong , Ma Qiang
Published: December 2020

One of the problems associated with vibration pollution is ground vibration. In view of the isolation of objects protected from ground-transmitted vibrations, a novel type of vibration isolation barrier, an open trench–wave impedance block, is proposed. Based on the perfectly matched layer absorbing boundary, the two-dimensional finite element method in the frequency domain is used to investigate the vibration isolation performance of the open trench–wave impedance block barrier system for reducing the vibration generated by a vibration source. Firstly, the governing equation of the perfectly matched layer absorbing boundary is established in the frequency domain by using complex coordinate stretching. Secondly, using Galerkin approximation technology, the calculation formula of the second-order non-splitting perfectly matched layer with the displacement as the basic unknown quantity is given for the finite element method in the frequency domain. Finally, the influence of the physical parameters (modulus ratio between ground and wave impedance block), geometric parameters (dimension and layout of an open trench–wave impedance block barrier, including embedded length and width) and the load parameters (exciting frequency of the vibration source) on its vibration isolation performance is researched. The results show that the open trench–wave impedance block barrier system can provide a more flexible and efficient isolation barrier for ground vibration control.
Broadening perfect sound absorption by composite absorber filled with porous material at low frequency
Authors: Cheng Baozhu , Gao Nansha , Huang Yunke , Hou Hong
Published: December 2020

To enhance the low-frequency broadband sound absorption, we propose an absorber filled with porous material and establish a relative acoustic model. Based on the critical coupling condition, a Helmholtz absorber was designed to achieve perfect sound absorption at 172 Hz by the complex frequency plane method. Considering the weak adjustability and acoustic impedance of the Helmholtz absorber, we devised four absorber filled with porous material units that can achieve perfect sound absorption at discrete frequencies between 400 and 488 Hz with a thickness of only 51 mm. A composite absorber filled with porous material was designed by arranging four absorber filled with porous material units in a coplanar manner. The broadband perfect sound absorption of the composite absorber filled with porous material was subsequently verified by simulation and experiment. The thickness of the composite absorber filled with porous material is only 1/18 of the wavelength corresponding to the perfect absorption frequency, and it shows excellent subwavelength characteristics. The theoretical acoustic model of the composite absorber filled with porous material and the complex frequency plane method can achieve a more efficient design of broadband perfect sound absorbers. The composite absorber filled with porous material not only realizes low-frequency broadband perfect sound absorption but is also lightweight and easy to fabricate. This demonstrates the composite absorber filled with porous material structure has great potential for application in low to mid frequency noise control.
Application of Gauss principle of least constraint in multibody systems with redundant constraints
Authors: Yang Liusong , Xue Shifeng , Yao Wenli
Published: December 2020

Redundancy in the constrained mechanical systems often occurs in complex multibody mechanic systems in the existence of excessive constraints and singular positions due to system motion. In this work, Gauss principle of least constraint (GPLC) is applied to solve the dynamic motion of system with redundant constraints without changing the physics of system. Furthermore, the particle swarm optimization method is used to handle the minimization optimization problem. Eventually, the effectiveness of GPLC is validated through the dynamic modelling and simulation of two numerical examples (a planar four-bar mechanism and a spatial parallelogram mechanism). The simulation results are analyzed and compared with those obtained from Udwaia-Phohomsiri formulation and augmented Lagrangian formulation, in terms of constraint violation, computational efficiency and variation of the mechanical energy. From the viewpoint of computational efficiency and accuracy, GPLC can be regarded as a practical real-time simulation method for multibody systems with redundant constraints.
“To Be a Guy Is to Be Human”: Outcomes of the WiseGuyz Program Through Photo-Based Evaluation
Authors: Exner-Cortens Deinera , Wright Alysia , Van Bavel Marisa , Sitter Kathleen C. , Hurlock Debb , Carter Roseline , Krause Pam
Published: December 2020

Gender-transformative approaches (i.e., approaches that support male-identified individuals to critique and resist stereotypical male gender role norms that negatively affect health and well-being) are increasingly recognized as a key health promotion strategy. However, there is limited evidence to date on gender-transformative interventions for male-identified adolescents. In addition, given the dynamic and socially constructed nature of gender, methods beyond quantitative data collection are needed to gain a holistic understanding of promising gender-transformative health promotion approaches. One newer method to capture lived experiences with adolescents is photo-based evaluation, where youth program participants take pictures to represent their knowledge, attitudes, and/or behaviors before and after a program. The present study presents findings from the photo-based evaluation of a gender-transformative health promotion program called WiseGuyz. WiseGuyz is offered to mid-adolescent, male-identified youth in school and community settings, and is designed to promote mental and sexual health and prevent violence. Six youth photographers from a rural Canadian setting took part in this evaluation, taking photos to represent what being a guy in their world meant before and after WiseGuyz. Youth then participated in an individual visual storytelling interview and a group-based photovoice process. Key themes in relation to masculinities that emerged from these data were around changes to (1) social norms and (2) emotionality following program participation, and the need for a safe program space to support these changes. This study adds to literature demonstrating the promise of gender-transformative approaches with adolescents, with implications for future health promotion research and practice with male-identified youth.
The Effects of Hydrogen Peroxide and/or Radiation on the Survival of Clinically Relevant Radioresistant Cells
Authors: Kuwahara Yoshikazu , Tomita Kazuo , Roudkenar Mehryar Habibi , Roushandeh Amaneh Mohammadi , Urushihara Yusuke , Igarashi Kento , Nagasawa Taisuke , Kurimasa Akihiro , Fukumoto Manabu , Sato Tomoaki
Published: December 2020

Background:

Radiation therapy is a highly cost-effective treatment for cancer, but the existence of radio-resistant cells remains the most critical obstacle in radiotherapy. We have been established clinically relevant radioresistant (CRR) cell lines by exposure to a stepwise increase of fractionated X-rays. We are trying to overcome the radio-resistance by analyzing the properties of these cells. In this study, we tried to evaluate the effects of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on the CRR cells because this can evaluate the efficacy of Kochi Oxydol-Radiation Therapy for Unresectable Carcinomas (KORTUC) that treats H2O2 before irradiation. We also established H2O2-resistant cells to compare the radiation and H2O2 resistant phenotype.

Materials and Methods:

We used human cancer cell lines derived from hepatoblastoma (HepG2), oral squamous cell carcinoma (SAS), and cervical cancer (HeLa). We established HepG2, SAS, and HeLa CRR cells and HepG2, SAS, and HeLa H2O2-resistant cells. To evaluate their sensitivity to radiation or H2O2, high-density survival assay, or WST assay was performed. CellROXTM was used to detect intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS).

Results:

CRR cells were resistant to H2O2-induced cell death but H2O2-resistant cells were not resistant to irradiation. This phenotype of CRR cells was irreversible. The intracellular ROS was increased in parental cells after H2O2 treatment for 3 h, but in CRR cells, no significant increase was observed.

Conclusion:

Fractionated X-ray exposure induces H2O2 resistance in CRR cells. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out cancer therapy such as KORTUC with the presence of these resistant cells in mind, and as the next stage, it would be necessary to investigate the appearance rate of these cells immediately and take countermeasures.
Global strategy for the diagnosis and management of acute kidney injury in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Sanchez Lukas Otero , Francoz Claire
Published: December 2020

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a clinical syndrome that complicates the course and worsens clinical outcomes in patients with chronic liver diseases. It is a common complication in hospitalised patients with liver cirrhosis, especially those with decompensated cirrhosis, associated with a high mortality rate. Considering its impact on patient prognosis, efforts should be made to diagnose and tailor therapeutic interventions for AKI at an early stage. In the past decade, a significant progress has been made to understand the key events and define major prognostic factors for the onset and progression of AKI in the cirrhotic population leading hepatologists to redefine the classic definition of hepatorenal syndrome and renal failure in this specific population.
Algorithmic Uses of Cybernetic Memory: Google Photos and a Genealogy of Algorithmically Generated “Memory”
Authors: Lee JeongHyun
Published: December 2020

When algorithmic media are becoming more independent in their ability to select, organize, and create what and how we remember daily life, this article examines the genealogical pre-condition of algorithmically generated “memory” through a case study of Google Photos. I argue that the algorithmic conceptualization of memory is rooted in the history of cybernetics, which is a contrast to the socially constructed memory. I first investigate older phenomenological questions around “memory” in the science of cybernetics and then examine a genealogy of cybernetic memory. Finally, I illustrate how cybernetic memory is animated in Google Photos. This article historically examines what “memory” is understood to be in algorithmic media and how the science of cybernetics has integrated our current understanding of memory into algorithmic memory practices—the socio-technical imaginary of the past.
Association of Medical Comorbidities With Objective Functional Impairment in Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease
Authors: Staartjes Victor E. , Joswig Holger , Corniola Marco V. , Schaller Karl , Gautschi Oliver P. , Stienen Martin N.
Published: December 2020

Study Design:

Analysis of a prospective 2-center database.

Objectives:

Medical comorbidities co-determine clinical outcome. Objective functional impairment (OFI) provides a supplementary dimension of patient assessment. We set out to study whether comorbidities are associated with the presence and degree of OFI in this patient population.

Methods:

Patients with degenerative diseases of the spine preoperatively performed the timed-up-and-go (TUG) test and a battery of questionnaires. Comorbidities were quantified using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) grading. Crude and adjusted linear regression models were fitted.

Results:

Of 375 included patients, 97 (25.9%) presented at least some degree of medical comorbidity according to the CCI, and 312 (83.2%) according to ASA grading. In the univariate analysis, the CCI was inconsistently associated with OFI. Only patients with low-grade CCI comorbidity displayed significantly higher TUG test times (p = 0.004). In the multivariable analysis, this effect persisted for patients with CCI = 1 (p = 0.030). Regarding ASA grade, patients with ASA = 3 exhibited significantly increased TUG test times (p = 0.003) and t-scores (p = 0.015). This effect disappeared after multivariable adjustment (p = 0.786 and p = 0.969). In addition, subjective functional impairment according to ODI, and EQ5D index was moderately associated with comorbidities according to ASA (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The degree of medical comorbidities appears only weakly and inconsistently associated with OFI in patients scheduled for degenerative lumbar spine surgery, especially after controlling for potential confounders. TUG testing may be valid even in patients with relatively severe comorbidities who are able to complete the test.
Comparisons of Lumbar Muscle Performance Between Minimally-Invasive and Open Lumbar Fusion Surgery at 1-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Lu Meng-Ling , Cheng Chih-Hsiu , Chen Wen-Chien , Fu Chen-Ju , Niu Chi-Chien
Published: December 2020

Study Design:

Prospective study.

Objective:

Minimally-invasive lumbar fusion surgery (MIS) is a viable alternative to conventional open surgery (COS) for spinal disorders. Although MIS seems to be associated with less para-spinal muscle trauma, the actual back muscle performance after MIS and COS remain controversial. This study investigated post-operative para-spinal muscle performance, and the correlation between muscle dysfunction and clinical outcome.

Methods:

In this prospective, non-randomized control study, 50 patients were enrolled and split into 2 groups: COS and MIS. We established a biomechanical model of the para-spinal muscle in the lumbar spine using electromyography (EMG) and specific muscle function tests. Functional outcomes were also reviewed and analyzed. All patients underwent EMG pre-operatively, and at 3 months and 1 year post-operatively. The para-spinal muscle performance was investigated by comparing the back muscle co-contraction ratio and the load transmission zone to the pre-operative data.

Results:

Twenty-one patients in the COS group and 25 in the MIS group completed the study. Both groups showed a significant improved functional score. The abdominal and back muscle strengths were decreased post-operatively, and were then increased at 12 months post-operatively in both groups. During the perturbed balance task and static task, the MIS group exhibited a trend of recovery in comparison with the COS group. But, the back muscle performance at 12 months was poorer than the pre-op performance in both groups.

Conclusions:

There was no significant difference in clinical outcome and para-spinal muscle performance between groups. In both methods, the global muscle function had declined post-operatively.
Combined Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair and Anterolateral Ligament Internal Brace Augmentation: Minimum 2-Year Patient-Reported Outcome Measures
Authors: Hopper Graeme P. , Aithie Joanna M.S. , Jenkins Joanne M. , Wilson William T. , Mackay Gordon M.
Published: December 2020

Background:

The anterolateral ligament (ALL) contributes to anterolateral rotational stability of the knee. Internal bracing of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and ALL reinforces the ligaments and encourages natural healing by protecting both during the healing phase and supporting early mobilization.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To assess the 2-year patient-reported outcomes of combined ACL repair and ALL internal brace augmentation. We hypothesized that significant improvements in outcomes would be seen.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 43 consecutive patients with acute proximal ACL ruptures were prospectively evaluated for a minimum of 2 years. The mean age at the time of surgery was 25.7 years (range, 13-56 years). Indications for the combined ACL/ALL procedure were associated Segond fractures, grade 3 pivot shift, or high levels of sporting activity. Patients with chronic ruptures or with multiligament injuries were excluded. The Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12), and Marx activity scale were collected preoperatively and at 12 and 24 months postoperatively. Patients with any postoperative complications were identified at the time of this analysis.

Results:

The mean follow-up period was 44.8 months. Five patients were lost to follow-up, leaving 38 patients (88.4%) in the final analysis. The mean KOOS for Pain, Symptoms, Activities of Daily Living, Sport/Recreation, and Quality of Life improved from a respective 64.9, 58.6, 75.0, 33.7, and 28.9 preoperatively to 91.1, 81.8, 96.1, 82.8, and 74.3 at the 2-year follow-up ( P < .0001). The mean WOMAC scores for pain, stiffness, and function improved from 77.5, 65.3, and 75.0 preoperatively to 94.6, 88.6, and 96.0 at the 2-year follow-up ( P < .0001). The VAS pain score improved from 3.4 preoperatively to 0.7 at the 2-year follow-up, and the VR-12 physical score improved from 34.4 preoperatively to 52.7 at the 2-year follow-up ( P < .0001 for both ). However, the Marx activity score decreased from 13.3 preinjury to 10.6 at the 2-year follow-up ( P = .01). Two patients (5.3%) sustained a rerupture.

Conclusion:

Combined ACL repair and ALL internal brace augmentation demonstrated excellent outcomes in 94.7% of the study patients. Based on our experience with this cohort as well as our isolated ACL repair data, we suggest that high-risk patients with ACL ruptures have an additional ALL procedure to provide rotational stability.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Implantation in Knee Osteoarthritis: Midterm Outcomes and Survival Analysis in 467 Patients
Authors: Kim Yong Sang , Suh Dong Suk , Tak Dae Hyun , Chung Pill Ku , Koh Yong Gon
Published: December 2020

Background:

A cell-based tissue engineering approach that uses mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has addressed the issue of articular cartilage repair in knees with osteoarthritis (OA).

Purpose:

To evaluate the midterm outcomes, analyze the survival rates, and identify the factors affecting the survival rate of MSC implantation to treat knee OA.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated 467 patients (483 knees) who underwent MSC implantation on a fibrin glue scaffold for knee OA with a minimum 5-year follow-up. Clinical outcomes were determined based on the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Tegner activity scale results measured preoperatively and during follow-up. Standard radiographs were evaluated using Kellgren-Lawrence grading. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the survival rate and the effect of different factors on the clinical outcomes.

Results:

The mean IKDC scores (baseline, 39.2 ± 7.2; 1 year, 66.6 ± 9.6; 3 years, 67.2 ± 9.9; 5 years, 66.1 ± 9.7; 9 years, 62.8 ± 8.5) and Tegner scores (baseline, 2.3 ± 1.0; 1 year, 3.4 ± 0.9; 3 years, 3.5 ± 0.9; 5 years, 3.4 ± 0.9; 9 years, 3.2 ± 0.9) were significantly improved until 3 years postoperatively and gradually decreased from 3- to 9-year follow-up ( P < .05 for all, except for Tegner score at 5 years vs 1 year [ P = .237]). Gradual deterioration of radiological outcomes according to the Kellgren-Lawrence grade was found during follow-up. Survival rates based on either a decrease in IKDC or an advancement of radiographic OA with Kellgren-Lawrence scores were 99.8%, 94.5%, and 74.5% at 5, 7, and 9 years, respectively. Based on multivariate analyses, older age and the presence of bipolar kissing lesion were associated with significantly worse outcomes ( P = .002 and .013, respectively), and a larger number of MSCs was associated with significantly better outcomes ( P < .001) after MSC implantation.

Conclusion:

MSC implantation provided encouraging outcomes with acceptable duration of symptom relief at midterm follow-up in patients with early knee OA. Patient age, presence of bipolar kissing lesion, and number of MSCs were independent factors associated with failure of MSC implantation.
Theory-Informed Course Design: Applications of Bloom’s Taxonomy in Undergraduate Public Health Courses
Authors: Callaghan-Koru Jennifer A. , Aqil Anushka R.
Published: December 2020

The public health workforce needs an array of knowledge and skills to effectively address current and future public health challenges. While existing competency models establish educational objectives for public health degree programs, there is insufficient guidance on how academic programs should develop these competencies, and workforce assessments continue to identify skills gaps in areas such as critical thinking and problem analysis. In this article, we describe an approach for designing undergraduate public health courses based on the hierarchy of cognitive processes in Bloom’s taxonomy. Course activities are sequenced to provide students with opportunities to attain increasing mastery of course concepts and analytical skills, from remembering new concepts to applying them in case studies and creating original analyses and proposals. This simple approach has been applied to three separate courses taught by multiple instructors over 3 years and has received positive feedback from students. By explicitly communicating the theoretical basis for course activities, this approach also promotes metacognitive knowledge in students that can foster their continued learning success.
Development and characterization of a pupal-colour based genetic sexing strain of Anastrepha fraterculus sp. 1 (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Meza José S. , Bourtzis Kostas , Zacharopoulou Antigone , Gariou-Papalexiou Angeliki , Cáceres Carlos
Published: December 2020

Background

Area-wide integrated pest management programs (AW-IPM) incorporating sterile insect technique (SIT) have been successful in suppressing populations of different fruit fly species during the last six decades. In addition, the development of genetic sexing strains (GSS) for different fruit fly species has allowed for sterile male-only releases and has significantly improved the efficacy and cost effectiveness of the SIT applications. The South American Fruit Fly Anastrepha fraterculus (Diptera: Tephritidae) is a major agricultural pest attacking several fruit commodities. This impedes international trade and has a significant negative impact on the local economies. Given the importance of sterile male-only releases, the development of a GSS for A. fraterculus would facilitate the implementation of an efficient and cost-effective SIT operational program against this insect pest species.

Results

For potential use in a GSS, three new morphological markers (mutants) were isolated in a laboratory strain of A. fraterculus sp. 1, including the black pupae (bp) gene located on chromosome VI. The black pupa phenotype was used as a selectable marker to develop genetic sexing strains by linking the wild type allele (bp+) to the Y-chromosome -via irradiation to induce a reciprocal Y-autosome translocation. Four GSS were established and one of them, namely GSS-89, showed the best genetic stability and the highest fertility. This strain was selected for further characterization and cytogenetic analysis.

Conclusions

We herein report the development of the first genetic sexing strain of a major agricultural pest, A. fraterculus sp. 1, using as a selectable marker the black pupae genetic locus.
Climate stress resistance in male Queensland fruit fly varies among populations of diverse geographic origins and changes during domestication
Authors: Popa-Báez Ángel-David , Lee Siu Fai , Yeap Heng Lin , Prasad Shirleen S. , Schiffer Michele , Mourant Roslyn G. , Castro-Vargas Cynthia , Edwards Owain R. , Taylor Phillip W. , Oakeshott John G.
Published: December 2020

Background

The highly polyphagous Queensland fruit fly (Bactrocera tryoniFroggatt) expanded its range substantially during the twentieth century and is now the most economically important insect pest of Australian horticulture, prompting intensive efforts to develop a Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) control program. Using a “common garden” approach, we have screened for natural genetic variation in key environmental fitness traits among populations from across the geographic range of this species and monitored changes in those traits induced during domestication.

Results

Significant variation was detected between the populations for heat, desiccation and starvation resistance and wing length (as a measure of body size). Desiccation resistance was correlated with both starvation resistance and wing length. Bioassay data for three resampled populations indicate that much of the variation in desiccation resistance reflects persistent, inherited differences among the populations. No latitudinal cline was detected for any of the traits and only weak correlations were found with climatic variables for heat resistance and wing length. All three stress resistance phenotypes and wing length changed significantly in certain populations with ongoing domestication but there was also a strong population by domestication interaction effect for each trait.

Conclusions

Ecotypic variation in heat, starvation and desiccation resistance was detected in Australian Qfly populations, and these stress resistances diminished rapidly during domestication. Our results indicate a need to select source populations for SIT strains which have relatively high climatic stress resistance and to minimise loss of that resistance during domestication.
Separating two tightly linked species-defining phenotypes in Bactrocera with hybrid recombinant analysis
Authors: Yeap Heng Lin , Lee Siu Fai , Robinson Freya , Mourant Roslyn G. , Sved John A. , Frommer Marianne , Papanicolaou Alexie , Edwards Owain R. , Oakeshott John G.
Published: December 2020

Background

Bactrocera tryoni and Bactrocera neohumeralis mate asynchronously; the former mates exclusively around dusk while the latter mates during the day. The two species also differ in the colour of the post-pronotal lobe (callus), which is predominantly yellow in B. tryoni and brown in B. neohumeralis. We have examined the genetic relationship between the two characters in hybrids, backcrosses and multigeneration hybrid progeny.

Results

Our analysis of the mating time of the parental species revealed that while B. tryoni mate exclusively at dusk, B. neohumeralis females pair with B. neohumeralis males during the day and with B. tryoni males at dusk. We found considerable variance in mating time and callus colour among hybrid backcross individuals of both sexes but there was a strong although not invariant trend for callus colour to co-segregate with mating time in both sexes. To genetically separate these two phenotypes we allowed the interspecific F1 hybrids to propagate for 25 generations (F25) without selection for mating time or callus colour, finding that the advanced hybrid population had moved towards B. tryoni phenotypes for both traits. Selection for day mating in replicate lines at F25 resulted in significant phenotypic shifts in both traits towards B. neohumeralis phenotypes in F26. However, we were unable to completely recover the mating time profile of B. neohumeralis and relaxation of selection for day mating led to a shift back towards dusk mating, but not yellow callus colour, by F35.

Conclusion

We conclude that the inheritance of the two major species-defining traits is separable but tightly linked and involves more than one gene in each case. It also appears that laboratory conditions select for the B. tryoni phenotypes for mating time. We discuss our findings in relation to speciation theory and the likely effects of domestication during the generation of mass release strains for sterile insect control programmes.
Transcriptome analysis of Anastrepha fraterculus sp. 1 males, females, and embryos: insights into development, courtship, and reproduction
Authors: Scannapieco Alejandra Carla , Conte Claudia Alejandra , Rivarola Máximo , Wulff Juan Pedro , Muntaabski Irina , Ribone Andrés , Milla Fabián , Cladera Jorge Luis , Lanzavecchia Silvia Beatriz
Published: December 2020

Background

Anastrepha fraterculus sp. 1 is considered a quarantine pest in several American countries. Since chemical control applied in an integrated pest management program is the only strategy utilized against this pest, the development of pesticide-free methods, such as the Sterile Insect Technique, is being considered. The search for genes involved in sex-determination and differentiation, and in metabolic pathways associated with communication and mating behaviour, contributes with key information to the development of genetic control strategies. The aims of this work were to perform a comprehensive analysis of A. fraterculus sp. 1 transcriptome and to obtain an initial evaluation of genes associated with main metabolic pathways by the expression analysis of specific transcripts identified in embryos and adults.

Results

Sexually mature adults of both sexes and 72 h embryos were considered for transcriptome analysis. The de novo transcriptome assembly was fairly complete (62.9% complete BUSCO orthologs detected) with a total of 86,925 transcripts assembled and 28,756 GO annotated sequences. Paired-comparisons between libraries showed 319 transcripts differently expressed between embryos and females, 1242 between embryos and males, and 464 between sexes. Using this information and genes searches based on published studies from other tephritid species, we evaluated a set of transcripts involved in development, courtship and metabolic pathways. The qPCR analysis evidenced that the early genes serendipity alpha and transformer-2 displayed similar expression levels in the analyzed stages, while heat shock protein 27 is over-expressed in embryos and females in comparison to males. The expression of genes associated with courtship (takeout-like, odorant-binding protein 50a1) differed between males and females, independently of their reproductive status (virgin vs mated individuals). Genes associated with metabolic pathways (maltase 2-like, androgen-induced gene 1) showed differential expression between embryos and adults. Furthermore, 14,262 microsatellite motifs were identified, with 11,208 transcripts containing at least one simple sequence repeat, including 48% of di/trinucleotide motifs.

Conclusion

Our results significantly expand the available gene space of A. fraterculus sp. 1, contributing with a fairly complete transcript database of embryos and adults. The expression analysis of the selected candidate genes, along with a set of microsatellite markers, provides a valuable resource for further genetic characterization of A. fraterculus sp. 1 and supports the development of specific genetic control strategies.
Increase in foreign body and harmful substance ingestion and associated complications in children: a retrospective study of 1199 cases from 2005 to 2017
Authors: Speidel Arne Jorma , Wölfle Lena , Mayer Benjamin , Posovszky Carsten
Published: December 2020

Background

Children with a history of caustic or foreign body ingestion (FBI) seem to be presenting more frequently to emergency departments. This study aims to elucidate the clinical presentation, diagnostic procedures, and complications associated with the ingestion of different object categories over a 13-year time period.

Methods

A structured retrospective data analysis of patients who presented between January 2005 and December 2017 to the University Medical Centre Ulm was performed. Patients up to 17 years of age with food impaction or foreign body or harmful substance ingestion were included by selection of the corresponding International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD10-GM) codes. Descriptive statistics, parametric or non-parametric tests, and linear regression analysis were performed.

Result

In total, 1199 patients were analysed; the mean age was 3.3 years (SD 3.12; range 7 days to 16 years), the male to female ratio was 1.15:1, and 194 (16.2%) were hospitalized. The number of patients seen annually increased from 66 in 2005 to 119 in 2017, with a rise in percentage of all emergency patients from 0.82% in 2010 to 1.34% in 2017. The majority of patients (n = 619) had no symptoms, and 244 out of 580 symptomatic patients complained of retching or vomiting. Most frequently, ingested objects were coins (18.8%). Radiopaque objects accounted for 47.6%, and sharp objects accounted for 10.5% of the ingested foreign bodies, both of which were significantly more often ingested by girls (p < 0.001 for both). Button battery ingestion was recorded for 63 patients with a significant annual increase (R2 = 0.57; β = 0.753; p = 0.003). The annual rate of complications also increased significantly (R2 = 0.42; β = 0.647; p = 0.017).

Conclusion

We found an alarming increase in the number of children who presented to our emergency department with FBI and associated complications. A standardized diagnostic and therapeutic approach may reduce and prevent serious complications. Further preventive measures within the home environment are needed to stop this trend.
Custom-made health-care: an experimental investigation
Authors: Keser Claudia , Montmarquette Claude , Schmidt Martin , Schnitzler Cornelius
Published: December 2020

Background

Physicians’ financial interests might conflict with the best service to patients. It is essential to gain a thorough understanding of the effect of remuneration systems on physician behaviour.

Methods

We conducted a controlled laboratory experiment using a within-subject design to investigate physician behaviour underpayment heterogeneity. Each physician provided medical care to patients whose treatments were paid for under fee-for-service (FFS) or capitation (CAP).

Results

We observed that physicians customized their care in response to the payment system. FFS patients received considerably more medical care than did CAP patients with the same illness and treatment preference. Physicians over-served FFS patients and under-served CAP patients. After a CAP payment reduction, we observed neither a quantity reduction under CAP nor a spillover in FFS patients’ treatment.

Conclusions

The results suggest that, in our experimental model, fee regulation can be used to some extent to control physician spending since we did not identify a behavioural response to the CAP payment cut. Physicians did not recoup lost income by altering treatment behaviour toward CAP and/or FFS patients. Experimental economics is an excellent tool for ensuring the welfare of all those involved in the health system. Further research should investigate payment incentives as a means of developing health care teams that are more efficient.
Experimental Study on the Cyclic Performance of Reinforced Concrete Shear Walls Exposed to Fire
Authors: Ryu Eunmi , Kim Heesun , Shin Yeongsoo
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the thermal and cyclic behaviors of fire-damaged walls designed with different failure modes, aspect ratios and heated areas. These cyclic behaviors include temperature distribution, maximum lateral load, stiffness, ductility, and energy dissipations, etc. Toward this goal, the concrete wall specimens were exposed to heat following an ISO 834 standard time–temperature curve and the cyclic loading was applied to the fire-damaged walls. The test results showed that exposure to fire significantly reduced the cyclic performance of the RC walls. Especially, it was observed that heated area, designed failure mode, and aspect ratio have influences on maximum lateral loads, stiffness, and ductility of the fire-damaged walls, while almost no effects of the heated area, designed failure mode, and aspect ratio on temperature distribution and energy dissipation were found.
Roundup causes embryonic development failure and alters metabolic pathways and gut microbiota functionality in non-target species
Authors: Suppa Antonio , Kvist Jouni , Li Xiaojing , Dhandapani Vignesh , Almulla Hanan , Tian Antoine Y. , Kissane Stephen , Zhou Jiarui , Perotti Alessio , Mangelson Hayley , Langford Kyle , Rossi Valeria , Brown James B. , Orsini Luisa
Published: December 2020

Background

Research around the weedkiller Roundup is among the most contentious of the twenty-first century. Scientists have provided inconclusive evidence that the weedkiller causes cancer and other life-threatening diseases, while industry-paid research reports that the weedkiller has no adverse effect on humans or animals. Much of the controversial evidence on Roundup is rooted in the approach used to determine safe use of chemicals, defined by outdated toxicity tests. We apply a system biology approach to the biomedical and ecological model species Daphnia to quantify the impact of glyphosate and of its commercial formula, Roundup, on fitness, genome-wide transcription and gut microbiota, taking full advantage of clonal reproduction in Daphnia. We then apply machine learning-based statistical analysis to identify and prioritize correlations between genome-wide transcriptional and microbiota changes.

Results

We demonstrate that chronic exposure to ecologically relevant concentrations of glyphosate and Roundup at the approved regulatory threshold for drinking water in the US induce embryonic developmental failure, induce significant DNA damage (genotoxicity), and interfere with signaling. Furthermore, chronic exposure to the weedkiller alters the gut microbiota functionality and composition interfering with carbon and fat metabolism, as well as homeostasis. Using the “Reactome,” we identify conserved pathways across the Tree of Life, which are potential targets for Roundup in other species, including liver metabolism, inflammation pathways, and collagen degradation, responsible for the repair of wounds and tissue remodeling.

Conclusions

Our results show that chronic exposure to concentrations of Roundup and glyphosate at the approved regulatory threshold for drinking water causes embryonic development failure and alteration of key metabolic functions via direct effect on the host molecular processes and indirect effect on the gut microbiota. The ecological model species Daphnia occupies a central position in the food web of aquatic ecosystems, being the preferred food of small vertebrates and invertebrates as well as a grazer of algae and bacteria. The impact of the weedkiller on this keystone species has cascading effects on aquatic food webs, affecting their ability to deliver critical ecosystem services.
Ischaemic stroke-induced distal organ damage: pathophysiology and new therapeutic strategies
Authors: Robba Chiara , Battaglini Denise , Samary Cynthia S. , Silva Pedro L. , Ball Lorenzo , Rocco Patricia R. M. , Pelosi Paolo
Published: December 2020

Acute ischaemic stroke is associated with a high risk of non-neurological complications, which include respiratory failure, cardiovascular dysfunction, kidney and liver injury, and altered immune and endocrine function. The aim of this manuscript is to provide an overview of the main forms of stroke-induced distal organ damage, providing new pathophysiological insights and recommendations for clinical management.

Non-neurological complications of stroke can affect outcomes, with potential for serious short-term and long-term consequences. Many of these complications can be prevented; when prevention is not feasible, early detection and proper management can still be effective in mitigating their adverse impact. The general care of stroke survivors entails not only treatment in the acute setting but also prevention of secondary complications that might hinder functional recovery. Acute ischaemic stroke triggers a cascade of events—including local and systemic activation of the immune system—which results in a number of systemic consequences and, ultimately, may cause organ failure. Understanding the pathophysiology and clinical relevance of non-neurological complications is a crucial component in the proper treatment of patients with acute stroke.

Little evidence-based data is available to guide management of these complications. There is a clear need for improved surveillance and specific interventions for the prevention, early diagnosis, and proper management of non-neurological complications during the acute phase of ischaemic stroke, which should reduce morbidity and mortality.
Extracellular vesicles as regulators of kidney function and disease
Authors: Behrens Felix , Holle Johannes , Kuebler Wolfgang M. , Simmons Szandor
Published: December 2020

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small, lipid bilayer-delimited particles of cellular origin that recently gained increasing attention for their potential use as diagnostic biomarkers, and beyond that for their role in intercellular communication and as regulators of homeostatic and disease processes. In acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), the potential use of EVs as diagnostic and prognostic markers has been evaluated in a series of clinical studies and contributions to pathophysiologic pathways have been investigated in experimental models. While EV concentrations in biofluids could not distinguish renal patients from healthy subjects or determine disease progression, specific EV subpopulations have been identified that may provide useful diagnostic and prognostic tools in AKI. Specific EV subpopulations are also associated with clinical complications in sepsis-induced AKI and in CKD. Beyond their role as biomarkers, pathophysiologic involvement of EVs has been shown in hemolytic uremic syndrome- and sepsis-induced AKI as well as in cardiovascular complications of CKD. On the other hand, some endogenously formed or therapeutically applied EVs demonstrate protective effects pointing toward their usefulness as emerging treatment strategy in kidney disease.
Liver–lung interactions in acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Herrero Raquel , Sánchez Gema , Asensio Iris , López Eva , Ferruelo Antonio , Vaquero Javier , Moreno Laura , de Lorenzo Alba , Bañares Rafael , Lorente José A.
Published: December 2020

Patients with liver diseases are at high risk for the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The liver is an important organ that regulates a complex network of mediators and modulates organ interactions during inflammatory disorders. Liver function is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of the pathogenesis and resolution of ARDS, significantly influencing the prognosis of these patients. The liver plays a central role in the synthesis of proteins, metabolism of toxins and drugs, and in the modulation of immunity and host defense. However, the tools for assessing liver function are limited in the clinical setting, and patients with liver diseases are frequently excluded from clinical studies of ARDS. Therefore, the mechanisms by which the liver participates in the pathogenesis of acute lung injury are not totally understood. Several functions of the liver, including endotoxin and bacterial clearance, release and clearance of pro-inflammatory cytokines and eicosanoids, and synthesis of acute-phase proteins can modulate lung injury in the setting of sepsis and other severe inflammatory diseases. In this review, we summarized clinical and experimental support for the notion that the liver critically regulates systemic and pulmonary responses following inflammatory insults. Although promoting inflammation can be detrimental in the context of acute lung injury, the liver response to an inflammatory insult is also pro-defense and pro-survival. A better understanding of the liver–lung axis will provide valuable insights into new diagnostic targets and therapeutic strategies for clinical intervention in patients with or at risk for ARDS.