bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of the glycemic control on the aqueous humor glucose levels in diabetic patients undergoing elective cataract surgery
Authors: Gomel Nir , Barequet Irina S , Lipsky Lior , Bourla Nirit , Einan-Lifshitz Adi
Published: March 2020

Purpose:

Aqueous humor glucose levels play a role in the anterior segment disorders’ pathophysiology, mainly in diabetics. Our purpose was to evaluate the ratio of aqueous humor glucose levels to blood glucose levels in diabetics and to evaluate the correlation between this ratio and blood glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels.

Methods:

This prospective study was performed in Sheba Medical Center during 2016–2018. The study included type 2 diabetic patients admitted for elective cataract surgery. Blood glucose levels were measured immediately before surgery. HbA1c was obtained within 3 months preoperatively. At the beginning of surgery, 0.05–0.1 mL aqueous humor was drawn. Main outcome measures were aqueous humor glucose/blood glucose ratio and the correlation between HbA1c and aqueous humor glucose/blood glucose ratio.

Results:

Thirty-seven patients (mean age 75.2 ± 11.2 years) were recruited. The average aqueous humor glucose/blood glucose ratio was 0.69 ± 0.20. A significant positive correlation was found between aqueous humor and blood glucose levels, Pearson coefficient constant R = 0.63 (p < 0.01), and specifically stronger among older patients R = 0.89 (p < 0.01), females R = 0.74 (p < 0.01), patients with short-term disease (<10 years) R = 0.80 (p < 0.01), and patients treated with oral anti-diabetic treatment R = 0.74 (p < 0.01). A significant strong positive correlation was found between HbA1c levels and aqueous humor glucose/blood glucose ratio R = 0.62 (p < 0.01), and specifically stronger among older patients R = 0.82 (p < 0.01), males R = 0.70 (p < 0.01), patients with prolonged disease (⩾10 years) R = 0.540 (p < 0.05), and patients treated with oral anti-diabetic treatment R = 0.62 (p < 0.01).

Conclusion:

A significant strong correlation was found between aqueous humor glucose levels and blood glucose levels. Poor glycemic control was strongly correlated with an increased ratio, reflecting an increased anterior chamber’s glucose permeability. Older age group was found to have stronger correlation of poor glycemic control with this ratio.
One-Year, Open-Label Extension Study on the Safety and Efficacy of Abiraterone Acetate Fine Particle Formulation in Patients With Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Chapas-Reed Jillian , Stein Cy , Squittieri Nicholas , Concepcion Raoul
Published: March 2020

Purpose:

Abiraterone acetate is an androgen synthesis inhibitor used to treat metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. The therapeutic equivalence, pharmacokinetics, and safety of abiraterone acetate fine particle (AAFP) versus originator abiraterone acetate (OAA) were examined in a Phase-2 study; sufficient similarity was observed between the 2 treatments. This 1-year, open-label, extension study evaluated the long-term safety and efficacy of AAFP.

Patients and methods:

This was an open-label, single-arm extension study. Patients who completed the 84-day, Phase-2, run-in study could enroll to receive 500 mg AAFP once daily and 4 mg methylprednisolone twice daily for up to 1 year. Safety was the primary endpoint, as assessed by adverse event monitoring throughout the study. Secondary efficacy endpoints included change from run-in study baseline levels of serum testosterone and prostate-specific antigen measured at baseline, 6 months, and 1 year.

Results:

Twenty patients enrolled, of whom 9 and 11 received prior AAFP and OAA in the run-in study, respectively. Both prior treatment groups maintained a significant decrease in serum testosterone from run-in baseline at all timepoints; mean change from run-in baseline ± standard deviation at 1 year of −6.24 ± 2.02 ( P = .0023) and −5.87 ± 3.64 ( P = .0026) ng/dL for the prior AAFP and OAA group, respectively. Change from run-in baseline in serum prostate-specific antigen was not significant. Most (84.0%) adverse events were Grade 1 or 2.

Conclusion:

No new safety signals were identified, and patients were able to successfully switch from OAA to AAFP with no impact.
Music and spirituality: Explanations and implications for music therapy
Authors: Lauzon Paul Laurent
Published: March 2020

Previous literature in music therapy suggests a need for greater clarity and insight concerning correlations between music and spirituality for the modern clinician. The purpose of this article is to provide a clear explanation of these correlations and some possible implications for the practice of music therapy. My method is one of ‘reflective synthesis’ – combining theoretical knowledge from several disciplines with my own, practical experience with clients – to bring forward key working, concepts. This will include (1) presenting a rationale for the therapist’s study of spirituality; (2) clarifying some basic terms; (3) asking three important questions concerning a human life and viewing them through the lens of spirituality and music; (4) linking the first of these questions to awareness of transcendence; (5) answering the second question in light of purpose and meaning; (6) explaining how spirituality provides connection to the other; (7) illustrating the correlations in a clinical vignette, and as a conclusion; (8) suggesting implications this may have for the music therapist; and (9) offering some reasonable cautions for integrating spirituality into a music therapy practice.
Effect of peritoneal dialysis solution with different pyruvate concentrations on intestinal injury
Authors: Zhang Jing-Jing , Shen Hui-Qin , Deng Jiang-Tao , Jiang Lin-Lin , Zhang Qiong-Yue , Xiong Ying , Zhang Zong-Ze , Wang Yan-Lin
Published: March 2020

To investigate the effects of direct peritoneal resuscitation with pyruvate-peritoneal dialysis solution (Pyr-PDS) of different concentrations combined with intravenous resuscitation on acid–base imbalance and intestinal ischemia reperfusion injury in rats with hemorrhagic shock. Sixty rats were randomly assigned to group SHAM, group intravenous resuscitation, and four direct peritoneal resuscitation groups combined with intravenous resuscitation: group NS, LA, PY1, and PY2, that is, normal saline, lactate-PDS (Lac-PDS), lower concentration Pyr-PDS (Pyr-PDS1), and higher concentration Pyr-PDS (Pyr-PDS2), respectively. Two hours after hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation, the pH, oxygen partial pressure, carbon dioxide partial pressure (PCO2), base excess, and bicarbonate ion concentration (HCO3−) of the arterial blood were measured. The intestinal mucosal damage index and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, zonula occludens-1, claudin-1, and occludin levels in intestinal issues were detected. Two hours after resuscitation, group PY2 had higher mean arterial pressure, pH, oxygen partial pressure, and base excess and lower PCO2of arterial blood than group PY1 ( P <  0.05). Tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 levels in group PY2 were significantly lower than those in group PY1 ( P <  0.05). Zonula occludens-1, claudin-1, and occludin expression levels were significantly higher in group PY2 than in group PY1 ( P <  0.05). Direct peritoneal resuscitation with Pyr-PDS2 combined with intravenous resuscitation enhanced the hemodynamics, improved the acid–base balance, and alleviated intestinal ischemia reperfusion injury from hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation in rats. The mechanisms might include correction of acidosis, inhibition of inflammatory response, enhancement of systemic immune status, regulation of intestinal epithelial permeability, and maintenance of intestinal mucosal barrier function.

Impact statement

Hemorrhagic shock is a life-threatening condition after trauma or during surgery. Acid–base imbalance and intestinal ischemia reperfusion injury are two significant causes in the pathogenetic process and multiple organ dysfunction. As a result, it is urgent and necessary to find an effective method of resuscitation in order to reverse the acid–base imbalance and protect organ function. This current study confirmed the protection against hypoxic acidosis and intestinal ischemia reperfusion injury by peritoneal resuscitation with pyruvate combined with intravenous resuscitation in rats with hemorrhagic shock. And the peritoneal dialysis solution with pyruvate of high concentration plays a crucial role in the process. It provided a new idea and possible direction of fluid resuscitation for alleviating organ injuries, protecting organ functions, and improving clinical prognosis after hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation.
Magnetoencephalography—Established but not yet Essential
Authors: Shih Jerry J.
Published: March 2020

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When the Brakes Fail: Basal Ganglia and Seizure Generalization
Authors: Englot Dario J.
Published: March 2020

[Box: see text]
GluA1 in central amygdala increases pain but inhibits opioid withdrawal-induced aversion
Authors: Cai You-Qing , Hou Yuan-Yuan , Pan Zhizhong Z
Published: March 2020

The amygdala is important in regulation of emotion-associated behavioral responses both to positive reinforcing stimuli such as addicting opioids and to negative aversive stimuli such as fear and pain. Glutamatergic neurotransmission in amygdala plays a predominant role in amygdala neuronal circuits involved in these emotional responses. However, how specific glutamate receptors act to mediate these amygdala functions remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the role of GluA1 subunits of glutamate α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors in central amygdala in modulating behavioral response to aversive stimuli by pain and by opioid withdrawal. We found that the protein level of GluA1 in the central nucleus of amygdala (CeA) was significantly increased in rats under persistent pain and viral upregulation of CeA GluA1 increased pain responses of both hyperalgesia and allodynia in rats. In contrast, the viral upregulation of CeA GluA1 inhibited, while knockdown of CeA GluA1 enhanced, place aversion induced by naloxone-precipitated morphine withdrawal. These results reveal a differential action of CeA GluA1 on the aversive event of sensory pain and opioid withdrawal, likely reflecting two distinct synaptic circuits of GluA1-predominant AMPA receptors within CeA for regulation of pain sensitivity and emotional response to opioid withdrawal.
How visual cues to speech rate influence speech perception
Authors: Bosker Hans Rutger , Peeters David , Holler Judith
Published: March 2020

Spoken words are highly variable and therefore listeners interpret speech sounds relative to the surrounding acoustic context, such as the speech rate of a preceding sentence. For instance, a vowel midway between short /ɑ/ and long /a:/ in Dutch is perceived as short /ɑ/ in the context of preceding slow speech, but as long /a:/ if preceded by a fast context. Despite the well-established influence of visual articulatory cues on speech comprehension, it remains unclear whether visual cues to speech rate also influence subsequent spoken word recognition. In two “Go Fish”–like experiments, participants were presented with audio-only (auditory speech + fixation cross), visual-only (mute videos of talking head), and audiovisual (speech + videos) context sentences, followed by ambiguous target words containing vowels midway between short /ɑ/ and long /a:/. In Experiment 1, target words were always presented auditorily, without visual articulatory cues. Although the audio-only and audiovisual contexts induced a rate effect (i.e., more long /a:/ responses after fast contexts), the visual-only condition did not. When, in Experiment 2, target words were presented audiovisually, rate effects were observed in all three conditions, including visual-only. This suggests that visual cues to speech rate in a context sentence influence the perception of following visual target cues (e.g., duration of lip aperture), which at an audiovisual integration stage bias participants’ target categorisation responses. These findings contribute to a better understanding of how what we see influences what we hear.
Artopithecin K, a new phenolic derivative with tyrosinase inhibitory activity from Artocarpus pithecogallus
Authors: Xiong Yan , Liu Xi , Xu Liu-Yun , Lin Qiao-Mei , He Xiao-Ru , Zhou Zhi-Wang
Published: March 2020

A new phenolic derivative, artopithecin K (1), was isolated from the twigs of Artocarpus pithecogallus. Its structure was elucidated based on extensive spectroscopic analyses. Compound 1 was evaluated for the inhibitory activity against tyrosinase.
The application of body scanning, numerical simulations and wind tunnel testing for the aerodynamic development of cyclists
Authors: Chi Shian , Pitman John , Crouch Tim , Burton David , Thompson Mark
Published: March 2020

The aerodynamic efficiency of an elite cyclist is often evaluated and optimised using either one or a combination of field testing, wind-tunnel testing and numerical simulation. This study focuses on the processes and limitations involved in using a body scan to produce an accurate geometry for input to numerical simulation, with validation through drag comparisons from wind-tunnel tests and vortical wake-flow features reported in previous experimental studies. Transitional Shear Stress Transport Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes simulations based on the scanned geometry were undertaken for a 180 ° half crank cycle at 15 ° increments. The sectional drag force contributions of 23 body subparts are presented, documenting the contribution and variation of each body/cycle component over the cycle. These methods are evaluated and the limitations of the approaches are discussed. The results from the numerical simulation and the wind tunnel measured drag force were very similar, differing by approximately 1%–7% for various crank angles.
Schisantherin A Improves the Learning and Memory by Reducing the Phosphorylation of Tau Protein of the Hippocampus in AD Mice
Authors: Jing Shu , Liu Cong , Lin Huijiao , Zhang Xinyun , Wang Fei , Gao Jiaqi , Sun Jinghui , Chen Jianguang , Wang Chunmei , Li He
Published: March 2020

Memory disorders are the main symptoms of aging and Alzheimer’s disease and seriously affect the quality of life. Schisandra, as a famous traditional Chinese medicine, has been used for modulating “the internal organs” for a thousand years. The total lignans from Schisandra have been scientifically proved to improve learning and memory ability. Since it is unclear which monomer in Schisandra total lignans exerts such a function, we evaluated the potential effects of Schisantherin A (SCA), the main monomer from Schisandra, on improving learning ability and memory in amyloid β-protein (Aβ1-42)-induced Alzheimer’s disease (AD) model mice. We found that SCA (5 mg/kg) significantly prolonged the latency and reduced the number of errors in a step-through test. SCA significantly shortened the time of finding the platform and increased the number of crossing the platform and the residence time in a Morris water maze test. SCA increased superoxide dismutase activities and reduced the Malondialdehyde level of the hippocampal tissue, suggesting its role in reducing oxidative stress in the AD mice. Furthermore, we found that SCA significantly decreased the hyperphosphorylation of Tau by altering glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) phosphorylation on Tyr216 and Ser9. Our results revealed the mechanism underlying SCA-mediated learning and memory improvement by regulating GSK-3β activity and lowering the hyperphosphorylation of Tau protein in the hippocampus of AD mice.
Separation and Purification of Zizyphusine, Spinosin, and 6′′′-Feruloylspinosin From Zizyphi Spinosi Semen
Authors: Wang Jiong Ran , Hu Yan Zhou , Han Xiao , Ding Ke
Published: March 2020

The methods of extraction, separation, and purification of zizyphusine, spinosin, and 6′′′-feruloylspinosin from Zizyphi Spinosi Semen ( ZSS) were investigated. From 31.2 g defatted ZSS, 47.7 mg zizyphusine, 57.8 mg spinosin, and 80.5 mg 6′′′-feruloylspinosin were obtained after ultrasonic extraction, purification with macroporous resin, separation by flash chromatography, and purification by high-pressure preparative chromatography. The purities of zizyphusine, spinosin, and 6′′′-feruloylspinosin were 98.6%, 98.2%, and 99.0%, respectively, and their yields 85.0%, 82.8%, and 83.0%. The methods provide stable samples of these compounds for further study of their physiological function and application.
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor From Tabernaemontana pandacaqui Flowers
Authors: Athipornchai Anan , Ketpoo Pattrapon , Saeeng Rungnapha
Published: March 2020

The inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is still considered a strategy for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The aim of this study was the search for potential drugs from natural sources which can inhibit AChE. The methanol extract of fresh flowers of Tabernaemontana pandacaqui was partitioned with n-hexane and ethyl acetate. All extracts were evaluated for AChE inhibitory activity. The ethyl acetate fraction, which showed the strongest AChE inhibitory activity, was fractionated using various chromatographic techniques, leading to the isolation of 6 compounds (1-6), which were identified mainly by spectroscopic techniques; this is the first report of these compounds from T. pandacaqui flowers. Astragalin (6) was the major active constituent. The structure-AChE inhibitory activity relationship of 6 and its derivatives was studied. The results suggest that T. pandacaqui flowers and its flavonoid compounds could be potentially used for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Outcomes of Surgically Treated Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome in Runners
Authors: Salzler Matthew , Maguire Kathleen , Heyworth Benton E. , Nasreddine Adam Y. , Micheli Lyle J. , Kocher Mininder S.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is primarily seen in running athletes. Previous outcomes of surgical treatment with fasciotomy have suggested moderate pain relief, but evidence is lacking regarding postoperative return to running.

Hypothesis:

Running athletes with limiting symptoms of CECS will show high rates of return to running after fasciotomy.

Study Design:

Case series.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

Running athletes treated with fasciotomy for CECS at a single institution were identified using a surgical database and asked to complete a questionnaire designed to assess postoperative pain, activity level, return to running, running distances, overall satisfaction, and rate of revision fasciotomy.

Results:

A total of 43 runners met the inclusion criteria, and 32 runners completed outcomes questionnaires at a mean postoperative follow-up of 66 months. In total, 27 of these 32 patients (84%) returned to sport(s) after fasciotomy. However, 9 (28%) of these patients pursued nonrunning sports, 5 (16%) due to recurrent pain with running. Of the 18 patients who returned to running sports (56%), the mean weekly running distance decreased postoperatively. Recurrence of symptoms was reported in 6 patients (19%), 4 of whom had returned to running and 2 of whom had been unable to return to sports. All of these 6 patients elected to undergo revision fasciotomy surgery. Twenty-five (78.1%) patients reported being satisfied with their procedure. In the overall cohort, the mean visual analog scale scores for pain during activities/sports decreased from 7.9 preoperatively to 1.7 postoperatively.

Conclusion:

Fasciotomy for CECS in runners may provide significant improvement in pain and satisfaction in over three-quarters of patients and return to sports in 84% of patients. However, only 56% returned to competitive running activity, with a subset (19%) developing recurrent symptoms resulting in revision surgery.

Clinical Relevance:

Fasciotomy has been shown to decrease pain in most patients with CECS. This study provides outcomes in running athletes after fasciotomy for CECS with regard to return to sports, maintenance of sports performance, and rates of revision surgery.
Is It Cultural Context or Cultural Value? Unpackaging Cultural Influences on Stigma Toward Mental Illness and Barrier to Help-Seeking
Authors: Chen Sylvia Xiaohua , Mak Winnie W. S. , Lam Ben C. P.
Published: March 2020

There have been growing interests in sampling underrepresented populations to test whether psychological processes are universal. The present cross-sectional study examined cultural influences on stigma toward mental illness and perceived barrier to help-seeking among Hong Kong Chinese, Chinese Americans, and European Americans ( N = 555 university students). Significant cultural differences were found in the mean levels, with the two Chinese groups reporting higher levels of stigma toward mental illness and perceived barrier to help-seeking than European Americans, and these cultural differences were accounted for by face concern. In addition, the strengths of paths from face concern to stigma toward mental illness and perceived barrier to help-seeking were equivalent across the three cultural groups. These findings tease apart the source of cultural influences and underscore the importance of comparing cultural differences both at the mean level and the structural level, but more importantly, to unpackage the observed differences by testing the mediating role of cultural values.
Predicting Factors for Return to Prefracture Ambulatory Level in High Surgical Risk Elderly Patients Sustained Intertrochanteric Fracture and Treated With Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation (PFNA) With and Without Cement Augmentation
Authors: Kulachote Noratep , Sa-ngasoongsong Paphon , Sirisreetreerux Norachart , Chulsomlee Kulapat , Thamyongkit Sorawut , Wongsak Siwadol
Published: March 2020

Introduction:

Postoperative outcomes in the elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture were generally poor with a low rate of return to prefracture ambulatory level (RPAL). Recent studies showed that proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) with cement augmentation might be useful for postoperative functional recovery. This study aimed to compare the outcomes in elderly patients with high surgical risk, American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) grade 3 or 4, who sustained intertrochanteric fractures and were treated with PFNA with and without cement augmentation, and to correlate perioperative surgical factors with the RPAL.

Methods:

A retrospective consecutive series was conducted based on 135 patients with prefracture ambulation classified as independent in community with or without a single cane (68 in augmented group and 67 in control group). Perioperative data and data on the complications within 1-year postsurgery were collected and compared. Predictive factors for RPAL were analyzed via logistic regression analysis.

Results:

The overall 1-year postoperative mortality rate was 10% (n = 14) with no significant difference between groups ( P = .273). The proportion of elderly patients with RPAL in the augmented group was significantly higher than for those in the control group (48% vs 29%, P = .043). Via univariate analysis, ASA grade 4 ( P = .077), history of stroke ( P = .035), and use of cement augmentation ( P = .041) were correlated with RPAL. However, multivariate regression analysis showed that ASA grade 4 (odds ratio [OR] = 0.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.18-0.90, P = .026) and use of cement augmentation (OR = 2.72, 95% CI: 1.22-6.05, P = .014) were the significant predictors for RPAL.

Discussion and Conclusions:

The results of the present study showed that PFNA with cement augmentation is safe and effectiveness in the intertrochanteric fracture treatment of elderly. Postoperative functional recovery, like RPAL, in elderly patients who sustained intertrochanteric fractures is relatively low, especially in those with ASA grade 4. However, cement augmentation with PFNA might be helpful for increasing the RPAL in high-surgical-risk geriatric patients.
Girls’ Relational Aggression: A Small Group Intervention
Authors: Beasley Jordon J.
Published: March 2020

An elementary school counseling department used data-informed practices in an effort to provide more effective school counseling services. This article provides a summary and evaluation of a girls’ relational aggression small group in an elementary setting. Results indicated that integrating friendship, conflict resolution, and self-affirmation into small group counseling affected behavior and social/emotional development. The school counselors were able to address preexisting relational aggression. This article offers implications for school counselors.
Recommendations for School Counselors: Applying the Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling Competencies (MSJCC) in Assisting Korean Adolescent Students in the United States
Authors: Brown Carleton H. , Shin Sang Min
Published: March 2020

The school counseling profession strongly encourages practitioners to work within a multicultural and a social justice perspective. More literature is needed that clarifies exactly how school counselors can use such a perspective in working with Asian student populations. We describe how school counselors can use the Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling Competencies framework in school counseling with the rapidly growing Korean adolescent student population in the United States.
Preparing High School Students With Chronic Illnesses for College Transition: Lessons Learned From College Counselors
Authors: Davis Eric S. , Paro Carly
Published: March 2020

Interest is growing regarding high school preparation for students transitioning to college with chronic illnesses such as asthma, cancer, and diabetes. This qualitative study examined 15 college counselors’ perceptions of working to address high school transition needs with incoming students diagnosed with chronic illnesses. Four themes emerged from the findings: counseling services, social aspects, medical considerations, and educational needs. We discuss implications for high school counselors’ practice and future research.
Robot-assisted laparoscopic ureteroneocystostomy combined to hysterectomy for intrinsic ureteral and deep pelvic endometriosis: Video presentation
Authors: Albanesi Gianluca , Baroni Clara , Cecchi Elena , Mogorovich Andrea , Salerno Maria Giovanna , Perutelli Alessandra
Published: March 2020

Introduction:

We present a case of posterior deep infiltrating endometriosis with intrinsic ureteral involvement in a 43-year-old patient treated by robot-assisted laparoscopic technique. To our knowledge, this is the second case of robot-assisted ureteroneocystostomy with concomitant hysterectomy reported in the literature1–5, yet the first one to be described with a video presentation.

Case description:

A 43-year-old woman with a past history of endometriosis treated laparoscopically was referred to our clinic for grade II–III left hydronephrosis. Pelvic ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a 3-cm paracervical endometriotic nodule causing ureteral compression, another 1.6-cm endometriotic nodule at the rectosigmoid junction, an adenomyotic nodule in the anterior uterine wall, and an endometrioma on the right ovary. Given that the patient had an absolute contraindication to hormonal therapy, we opted for robot-assisted laparoscopic complete eradication of endometriosis. The procedure consisted in total hysterectomy with concomitant removal of the rectovaginal nodule, right adnexectomy, left salpingectomy, and left ureteral resection with ureteroneocystostomy. After 8 days, a cystography was accomplished to confirm anastomosis integrity, and the bladder catheter was removed. The patient was discharged on day 8 after a regular postoperative period. One year after the surgery, the patient refers wellbeing.

Conclusion:

The robotic approach in such a complex procedure as surgical treatment of ureteral and deep infiltrating endometriosis is feasible and safe with acceptable postoperative outcome. Further investigations with larger comparative cohorts that include cost analysis are needed to fully assess the benefits achieved by robotic assistance in patients with ureteral and deep infiltrating endometriosis.
Effect of Teaching Session on Resident Ability to Identify Anatomic Landmarks and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Footprint: A Study Using 3-Dimensional Modeling
Authors: Laverdiere Carl , Harvey Eric , Schupbach Justin , Boily Mathieu , Burman Mark , Martineau Paul A.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Femoral tunnel positioning in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is an intricate procedure that requires highly specific surgical skills.

Purpose:

To report the ability of residents to identify femoral landmarks and the native ACL footprint before and after a structured formal teaching session as a reflection of overall surgical skill training for orthopaedic surgery residents in Canada.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 13 senior orthopaedic residents were asked to identify a femoral landmark and an ACL footprint on ten 3-dimensional (3D)–printed knee models before and after a teaching session during the fall of 2018. The 3D models were made based on actual patients with different anatomic morphologic features. ImageJ software was used to quantify the measurements, which were then analyzed through use of descriptive statistics.

Results:

Before and after the teaching session, residents attempted to identify a specific anatomic location (bifurcate and intercondylar ridge intersection) with a mean error per participant ranging from 5.00 to 10.95 mm and 4.79 to 12.13 mm in magnitude, respectively. Furthermore, before and after the teaching session, residents identified the specific position to perform the surgical procedure (ACL femoral footprint), with a mean error per participant ranging from 4.58 to 8.80 mm and 3.87 to 11.07 mm in magnitude, respectively. The teaching session resulted in no significant improvement in identification of either the intersection of the bifurcate and intercondylar ridges ( P = .9343 in the proximal-distal axis and P = .8133 in the anteroposterior axis) or the center of the femoral footprint ( P = .7761 in the proximal-distal axis and P = .9742 in the anteroposterior axis).

Conclusion:

Although a formal teaching session was combined with a hands-on session that entailed real surgical instrumentation and fresh cadaveric specimens, the intervention seemed to have no direct impact on senior residents’ performance or their ability to demonstrate the material taught. This puts into question the format and efficacy of present teaching methods. Also, it is possible that the 3D spatial perception required to perform these skills is not something that can be taught effectively through a teaching session or at all. Further investigation is required regarding the effectiveness and application of surgical skill laboratories and simulations on the competencies of orthopaedic residents.
To Level the Playing Field, Develop Interest
Authors: Renninger K. Ann , Hidi Suzanne E.
Published: March 2020

Individuals do not all come to tasks, activities, or assignments with the same readiness to engage. Differences in the ability to focus, comprehend, or problem-solve can lead to inequalities of outcome and make learners less likely to realize their potential. Given that interest development supports persistence, conscientiousness, and the ability to work with negative feedback, educators and policymakers could help to increase educational opportunity for all by promoting the development of interest. Interest is a cognitive and motivational variable that describes (a) engagement, or participation, with some content (such as physics, writing, or baseball) and also (b) the motivation to continue to seek opportunities to engage with that content: seeking information, posing questions, and tackling challenge. Interest works because the information search it creates is rewarding. The development of interest heightens understanding and sustains engaged work. It also positively influences outcomes such as performance and continued enrollment. Even the development of a little interest can make a difference. Educators and policymakers can enhance educational opportunities by promoting interest development. Methods are described.
Cognitive Training: How Evidence, Controversies, and Challenges Inform Education Policy
Authors: Green C. Shawn , Newcombe Nora S.
Published: March 2020

Both scientists and the general public want to know whether basic cognitive abilities can improve with dedicated behavioral training. This would have many practical implications, including possible increases in academic achievement. The current brief review of behavioral approaches to cognitive enhancement focuses on the cognitive abilities most predictive of academic success: fluid intelligence, working memory, executive functions, spatial thinking, and visual attention. Researchers are currently testing a range of possible approaches to enhancing these cognitive skills. These include everything from having people repeatedly practice the same types of psychology tests that are used to measure the cognitive abilities, to developing custom cognitive training platforms, to the use of commercial entertainment video games. Existing data warrant guarded optimism, but more research is needed to justify widespread adoption. Policymakers can help (e.g., by promoting best-practice science), and researchers need to consider ethical issues as the field progresses.
How Reading Motivation and Engagement Enable Reading Achievement: Policy Implications
Authors: Barber Ana Taboada , Klauda Susan Lutz
Published: March 2020

Successful reading comprehension demands complex cognitive skills, and, consequently, motivation to make meaning from text. Research on reading motivation and engagement can inform policy aimed at improving reading achievement. Multiple dimensions of reading motivation and engagement—and instructional practices for bolstering each one—draw on interventions for students of diverse language and ethnic backgrounds in elementary and middle grade classrooms. The article concludes with policy recommendations centering on (a) the need for school administrators and teachers to learn principles of reading motivation and engagement and (b) the importance of devoting time to planning, in collaboration with researchers, how to apply these principles with particular students in particular classrooms.
Designing Graphs for Decision-Makers
Authors: Zacks Jeffrey M. , Franconeri Steven L.
Published: March 2020

Data graphics can be a powerful aid to decision-making—if they are designed to mesh well with human vision and understanding. Perceiving data values can be more precise for some graphical types, such as a scatterplot, and less precise for others, such as a heatmap. The eye can extract some types of statistics from large arrays in an eyeblink, as quickly as recognizing an object or face. But perceiving some patterns in visualized numbers—particularly comparisons within a dataset—is slow and effortful, unfolding over a series of operations that are guided by attention and previous experience. Effective data graphics map important messages onto visual patterns that are easily extracted, likely to be attended, and as consistent as possible with the audience’s previous experience. User-centered design methods, which rely on iteration and experimentation to improve a design, are critical tools for creating effective data visualizations.
Seismic failure of an old pier during the 2014 Mw8.2, Pisagua, Chile earthquake
Authors: Morales Camilo , Ledezma Christian , Sáez Esteban , Boldrini Sebastián , Rollins Kyle
Published: March 2020

The seismic failure of an old quay wall, built in 1932, located in the Port of Iquique during the Mw8.2, 1 April, 2014, Pisagua, Chile earthquake is studied. A geotechnical exploration, including boreholes, cone penetration test (CPT) soundings, and surface-based geophysical techniques were performed to characterize the materials forming the pier. The data and field observations were analyzed and used to develop a geotechnical finite element (FE) model of two cross-sections, to define the most likely mechanism to explain the failure. The FE results are compared against the deformations measured in a number of cross-sections of the pier, suggesting that the failure can be explained by a combined effect of the dynamic increase in lateral earth pressures and the base rotation of the confining walls due to the lack of proper compaction of the rockfill prism below the confining walls.
Morphine alters respiratory control but not other key obstructive sleep apnoea phenotypes: a randomised trial
Authors: Martins Rodrigo T. , Carberry Jayne C. , Wang David , Rowsell Luke , Grunstein Ronald R. , Eckert Danny J.
Published: March 2020

Accidental opioid-related deaths are increasing. These often occur during sleep. Opioids such as morphine may worsen obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Thus, people with OSA may be at greater risk of harm from morphine. Possible mechanisms include respiratory depression and reductions in drive to the pharyngeal muscles to increase upper airway collapsibility. However, the effects of morphine on the four key phenotypic causes of OSA (upper airway collapsibility (pharyngeal critical closure pressure;Pcrit), pharyngeal muscle responsiveness, respiratory arousal threshold and ventilatory control (loop gain) during sleep) are unknown.

21 males with OSA (apnoea–hypopnoea index range 7–67 events·h−1) were studied on two nights (1-week washout) according to a double-blind, randomised, cross-over design (ACTRN12613000858796). Participants received 40 mg of MS-Contin on one visit and placebo on the other. Brief reductions in continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) from the therapeutic level were delivered to induce airflow limitation during non-rapid eye movement (REM) sleep to quantify the four phenotypic traits. Carbon dioxide was deliveredvianasal mask on therapeutic CPAP to quantify hypercapnic ventilatory responses during non-REM sleep.

Compared to placebo, 40 mg of morphine did not changePcrit(−0.1±2.4versus−0.4±2.2 cmH2O, p=0.58), genioglossus muscle responsiveness (−2.2 (−0.87 to −5.4)versus−1.2 (−0.3 to −3.5) μV·cmH2O−1, p=0.22) or arousal threshold (−16.7±6.8versus−15.4±6.0 cmH2O, p=0.41), but did reduce loop gain (−10.1±2.6versus−4.4±2.1, p=0.04) and hypercapnic ventilatory responses (7.3±1.2versus6.1±1.5 L·min−1, p=0.006).

Concordant with recent clinical findings, 40 mg of MS-Contin does not systematically impair airway collapsibility, pharyngeal muscle responsiveness or the arousal threshold in moderately severe OSA patients. However, consistent with blunted chemosensitivity, ventilatory control is altered.
Self-healing coatings for inhibiting corrosion of ferrous metals exposed to preservative-treated bamboo
Authors: Wang Qingping , Cao Jinzhen , Liu Xing’e , Yang Shumin , Jiang Mingliang
Published: March 2020

This study aims to provide an effective method of inhibiting the corrosion of ferrous metals exposed to preservative-treated bamboo, thereby prolonging material service life and reducing maintenance costs. The synthesis and characterization of microcapsules were first described. The characterization included the particle size, surface morphology, thermal stability, and core content of microcapsules. The results showed that microcapsules had good thermal stability and high core loading. Then, the self-healing performance and corrosion resistance of self-healing coatings were evaluated. The results indicated that self-healing coatings can identify and heal the damage automatically and had a more positive effect on inhibiting metal corrosion. Also, the mechanical properties of self-healing coatings were analyzed. The results demonstrated that microcapsule embedment did not almost affect the mechanical properties of self-healing coatings.
Determination of the physical and mechanical properties of moso, guadua and oldhamii bamboo assisted by robotic fabrication
Authors: Lorenzo Rodolfo , Godina Martha , Mimendi Leonel , Li Haitao
Published: March 2020

The large-scale urbanisation taking place in the developing world requires the construction industry to adopt alternative non-conventional renewable materials to reduce the unsustainable level of greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of industrialised building materials. Bamboo is one of the most promising non-conventional building materials endemic to most developing countries, but there is still insufficient consistent information on the physical and mechanical properties of the numerous species suitable for construction. This study shows the potential of robotic fabrication to accelerate testing programmes on small clear samples of bamboo required to compare physical and mechanical properties across different species and differing plantation management practices. This fabrication method is applied on an experimental testing programme to determine the characteristic values of density, compressive strength, elastic modulus and shear strength ofPhyllostachys pubescens(moso),Guadua angustifoliaKunth (guadua) andGuadua angustifolia(oldhamii). The efficient development of comprehensive experimental datasets of clear samples of bamboo is fundamental to inform the development of future design guidelines for bamboo as a construction material.
Enzyme-Free Glucose Biosensors Based on MoS2 Nanocomposites
Authors: He Weijie , Huang Yixuan , Wu Jiang
Published: March 2020

High-performance glucose biosensors are highly desired for healthcare. To meet these demands, glucose biosensors, particularly enzyme-free glucose biosensors, have received much attention. Two-dimensional materials, e.g., graphene, with high surface area, excellent electrical properties, and good biocompatibility, have been the main focus of biosensor research in the last decade. This review presents the recent progress made in enzyme-free glucose biosensors based on MoS2 nanocomposites. Two different techniques for glucose detections are introduced, with an emphasis on electrochemical glucose biosensors. Challenges and future perspectives of MoS2 nanocomposite glucose biosensors are also discussed.
Juvenile diet quality and intensity of sexual conflict in the mite Sancassania berlesei
Authors: Łukasiewicz Aleksandra
Published: March 2020

Background

Differing evolutionary interests of males and females may result in sexual conflict, whereby traits or behaviours that are beneficial for male reproductive success (e.g., traits related to male-male competition) are costly for females. Since sexual conflict may play an important role in areas such as speciation, population persistence or evolution of life history traits, understanding what factors modulate the intensity of sexual conflict is important. This study aims to examine juvenile diet quality as one of the underestimated ecological factors that may affect the intensity of sexual conflict via individual conditions. I used food manipulation during the development of the mite Sancassania berlesei to investigate the effects on male reproductive behaviour and competitiveness, male-induced harm to female fitness and female resistance to this harm.

Results

Males that were exposed to low-quality food started mating later than the control males, and number of their mating attempts were lower compared to those of control males. Moreover, males from the low-quality diet treatment sired fewer offspring under competition than males from the control treatment. However, the fitness of females exposed to males reared on a poor diet did not differ from that of females mated with control males. Furthermore, female diet quality did not alter their resistance to male-induced harm.

Conclusion

Overall, diet quality manipulation affected male reproductive behaviour and mating success. However, I found no evidence that the intensity of sexual conflict in S. berlesei depends on male or female conditions. Investigating a broader range of environmental factors will provide a better understanding of sexual conflict dynamics and its feedback into associated evolutionary mechanisms.
Hepatic transcriptome of the freeze-tolerant Cope’s gray treefrog, Dryophytes chrysoscelis: responses to cold acclimation and freezing
Authors: do Amaral M. Clara F. , Frisbie James , Crum Raphael J. , Goldstein David L. , Krane Carissa M.
Published: March 2020

Background

Cope’s gray treefrog,Dryophytes chrysoscelis, withstands the physiological challenges of corporeal freezing, partly by accumulating cryoprotective compounds of hepatic origin, including glycerol, urea, and glucose. We hypothesized that expression of genes related to cryoprotectant mobilization and stress tolerance would be differentially regulated in response to cold. Using high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq), a hepatic transcriptome was generated forD. chrysoscelis, and gene expression was compared among frogs that were warm-acclimated, cold-acclimated, and frozen.

Results

A total of 159,556 transcripts were generated; 39% showed homology with known transcripts, and 34% of all transcripts were annotated. Gene-level analyses identified 34,936 genes, 85% of which were annotated. Cold acclimation induced differential expression both of genes and non-coding transcripts; freezing induced few additional changes. Transcript-level analysis followed by gene-level aggregation revealed 3582 differentially expressed genes, whereas analysis at the gene level revealed 1324 differentially regulated genes. Approximately 3.6% of differentially expressed sequences were non-coding and of no identifiable homology. Expression of several genes associated with cryoprotectant accumulation was altered during cold acclimation. Of note, glycerol kinase expression decreased with cold exposure, possibly promoting accumulation of glycerol, whereas glucose export was transcriptionally promoted by upregulation of glucose-6-phosphatase and downregulation of genes of various glycolytic enzymes. Several genes related to heat shock protein response, DNA repair, and the ubiquitin proteasome pathway were upregulated in cold and frozen frogs, whereas genes involved in responses to oxidative stress and anoxia, both potential sources of cellular damage during freezing, were downregulated or unchanged.

Conclusion

Our study is the first to report transcriptomic responses to low temperature exposure in a freeze-tolerant vertebrate. The hepatic transcriptome ofDryophytes chrysoscelisis responsive to cold and freezing. Transcriptomic regulation of genes related to particular pathways, such as glycerol biosynthesis, were not all regulated in parallel. The physiological demands associated with cold and freezing, as well as the transcriptomic responses observed in this study, are shared with several organisms that face similar ecophysiological challenges, suggesting common regulatory mechanisms. The role of transcriptional regulation relative to other cellular processes, and of non-coding transcripts as elements of those responses, deserve further study.