bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic diversity evolution in the Mexican Charolais cattle population
Authors: Ríos-Utrera Ángel , Montaño-Bermúdez Moisés , Vega-Murillo Vicente Eliezer , Martínez-Velázquez Guillermo , Baeza-Rodríguez Juan José , Román-Ponce Sergio Iván
Published: August 2020

Objective: The aim was to characterize the genetic diversity evolution of the registered Mexican Charolais cattle population by pedigree analysis. Methods: Data consisted of 331,390 pedigree records of animals born from 1934 to 2018. Average complete generation equivalent, generation interval, effective population size (Ne), and effective numbers of founders (fe), ancestors (fa), and founder genomes (Ng) were calculated for seven five-year periods. The inbreeding coefficient was calculated per year of birth, from 1984 to 2018, whereas the gene contribution of the most influential ancestors was calculated for the latter period. Results: Average complete generation equivalent consistently increased across periods, from 4.76, for the first period (1984 through 1988), to 7.86, for the last period (2014 through 2018). The inbreeding coefficient showed a relative steadiness across the last seventeen years, oscillating from 0.0110 to 0.0145. During the last period, the average generation interval for the father-offspring pathways was nearly 1 yr. longer than that of the mother-offspring pathways. The effective population size increased steadily since 1984 (105.0) and until 2013 (237.1), but showed a minor decline from 2013 to 2018 (233.2). The population displayed an increase in the fa since 1984 and until 2008; however, showed a small decrease during the last decade. The effective number of founder genomes increased from 1984 to 2003, but revealed loss of genetic variability during the last fifteen years (from 136.4 to 127.7). The fa:fe ratio suggests that the genetic diversity loss was partially caused by formation of genetic bottlenecks in the pedigree; in addition, the Ng:fa ratio indicates loss of founder alleles due to genetic drift. The most influential ancestor explained 1.8% of the total genetic variability in the progeny born from 2014 to 2018. Conclusion: Inbreeding, Ne, fa, and Ng are rather beyond critical levels; therefore, the current genetic status of the population is not at risk.
Análise de causa e influência de elementos meteorológicos em ocorrências de incêndios em florestas de produção
Authors: Canzian Weslen Pintor , Fiedler Nilton César , Pezzopane José Eduardo Macedo , Oliveira Carlos Henrique Rodrigues , Silva Elaine Cristina Gomes
Published: September 2020

A quantidade e intensidade dos incêndios florestais têm sido destaque mediante as perdas e os impactos sociais, ambientais e econômicos. Dessa forma, o objetivo desta pesquisa foi identificar o perfil dos incêndios assim como suas causas e correlacionar a influência dos elementos meteorológicos sob as ocorrências de incêndios em florestas de produção para direcionar o uso de recursos em técnicas e medidas de prevenção, além de estruturas de combate aos incêndios florestais. O estudo teve como subsídio o banco de dados da série histórica de 10 anos de registro de ocorrência de incêndios e de variáveis meteorológicas oriundas de 45 estações meteorológicas de uma empresa produtora de eucalipto para celulose, no período de 2008 a 2017. De acordo com os resultados, 91,40% das 32.561 ocorrências ao longo dos 10 anos foram originadas por incendiários. Além disso, justificado pela causa do incêndio, a quantidade de ocorrências entre os anos analisados apresentou correlações negativas moderada e baixa respectivamente, para umidade relativa e precipitação e correlação desprezível para temperatura média. A distribuição mensal dos incêndios destacou-se por ser uniforme ao longo do ano, uma vez que, apesar de setembro e outubro apresentarem a maior incidência das ocorrências, eles diferiram apenas de abril ao nível de 5% de probabilidade pelo teste de Tukey. Dessa forma, regiões onde a origem dos incêndios florestais é majoritariamente por ação intencional e criminosa, as ações de prevenção, monitoramento, registro de informações confiáveis e combate aos incêndios florestais devem ser planejadas contemplando todos os meses do ano.
A pulsão de morte segundo Max Horkheimer: discussões sobre emancipação e repressão social nos anos 1930 e 1940
Authors: Fernandes Simone Bernardete
Published: August 2020

Nos anos 1930 e 1940, Max Horkheimer investigou as origens da agressividade manifesta na vida social, sobretudo na forma do antissemitismo. Suas referências ao conceito de pulsão de morte divergem nestes contextos, uma distinção que se relaciona estreitamente a mudanças consideráveis em sua filosofia. A princípio, este conceito é preterido por reproduzir uma concepção ideológica que justifica e hipostasia o vínculo da civilização com a repressão pulsional, vínculo supostamente necessário em vista da ameaça de suas manifestações destrutivas para a vida em sociedade. Posteriormente, no entanto, foi compreendido como sintoma do retorno do impulso mimético recalcado, em uma investigação sobre o estatuto da subjetividade desde a sua formação arcaica. Este artigo analisa as premissas destas interpretações da pulsão de morte e os conflitos em sua recepção pela teoria crítica, que lançaram as bases para uma discussão ainda em andamento sobre a sua apropriação pela teoria social.
Da ontogênese à filogênese: uma velha diretriz metodológica de Freud em "Além do princípio do prazer"
Authors: Ferretti Marcelo Galletti
Published: August 2020

Este trabalho visa a mostrar que se pode identificar uma diretriz metodológica a qual guia as especulações de Freud em Além do princípio do prazer e que foi concebida pelo autor no manuscrito de 1895 Projeto de uma psicologia. Ela se prestou a criar condições para o recurso a explicações de ordem ontogenética e filogenética para os fenômenos detectados pela clínica freudiana. A fim de mostrar esses aspectos, primeiramente se resgata a referida diretriz em Projeto de uma psicologia e se a identifica, em seguida, em Além do princípio do prazer com vistas a, enfim, buscar fornecer contribuições não apenas ao esclarecimento dos recursos freudianos à filogênese e à ontogênese como também ao vislumbre da importância desses domínios na metapsicologia freudiana e das possibilidades de relação entre a psicanálise e a biologia que se abrem a partir desse belo e desafiador ensaio de Freud escrito a um século.
Sobre la dimensión representacional de la psique según Cornelius Castoriadis
Authors: Rosso Germán
Published: August 2020

El presente trabajo se propone recuperar la reflexión filosófica y psicoanalítica de Cornelius Castoriadis para profundizar en la comprensión de la dimensión representacional de la actividad anímica. En el primer apartado se retoma el modo en que este autor se posiciona al respecto de la obra freudiana y sus planteos acerca de la articulación entre psique, representación e imaginación. Luego, se aborda la capacidad primigenia de representación que Castoriadis postula al nivel de la psique, revisitando los problemas de la delegación de la pulsión y la emergencia de las fantasías originarias en la tradición psicoanalítica freudiana. Finalmente, se propone un modo de abordar las alteraciones de esta capacidad representacional como “modos de organización” estratificados, es decir, como capacidades de “puesta en forma” y “puesta en sentido” cualitativamente diferenciables que se instituyen en la subjetividad durante el devenir psicogenético.
Do transitar: corpo, envelhecimento e morte em chave freudiana
Authors: Ibertis Carlota María
Published: August 2020

O presente artigo examina o fenômeno do envelhecimento no que diz respeito ao corpo, à temporalidade e à morte do ponto de vista tanto de vivências subjetivas quanto da metapsicologia. Para tanto, considera-se a elaboração teórica que Freud desenvolve entre 1914 e 1920 que culmina com a publicação de Além do princípio do prazer.
Editorial
Authors: Silva Luan Corrêa da
Published: August 2020

Esse trabalho não apresenta resumo.
Viabilidade econômica da suinocultura no sistema wean to finish em São José do Rio Pardo - SP
Authors: Evangelista Mariane Zabotto , Pereira Rafaela
Published: September 2020

Este trabalho analisou a viabilidade econômica da produção Wean to Finish de suínos em São José do Rio Pardo nas produções independente e integrada. Foram levantados os custos fixos e variáveis anuais de manejo e manutenção de instalações, despesas administrativas e fiscais e custos da construção hipotética de uma instalação de 1.000 m2 em uma propriedade com granjas já em funcionamento. O plantel projetado foi de 1.000 animais por lote, sendo produzidos dois lotes anuais. Foram construídos dois fluxos de caixa, um para produção independente e outro para produção integrada, ambos para o período de 21 anos. O valor presente líquido (VPL) apresentou viabilidade apenas para a produção integrada, com R$ 634.055,44 de lucro. A taxa interna de retorno (TIR) para tal foi de 28,40%. Contudo, devido ao prejuízo encontrado para o suíno terminado, a viabilidade da produção integrada mostrou-se incerta e de alto risco ao suinocultor local.
Estudo comparativo das legislações de prevenção e combate a incêndio dos estados de Minas Gerais e Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Pereira Tamires Galvão Tavares , Faria Douglas Lamounier , Araújo Jônatan Enan Carvalho de , Eugênio Tony Matheus Carvalho , Pereira Anirene Galvão Tavares , Mendes Lourival Marin
Published: August 2020

A prevenção contra incêndios vem evoluindo devido aos acontecimentos desastroso ocorrido ao longo dos anos. A adoção de medidas preventivas é necessária para evitar os riscos de ocorrências de incêndios e diminuir os prejuízos gerados. No Brasil, a legislação e a fiscalização das medidas de proteção a combate a incêndio estão sob a responsabilidade do Corpo de Bombeiro, porém existe uma disparidade entre as legislações estadual devido suas autonomias e a grande variedade de atividades desenvolvidas na sociedade, o que dificulta a padronização das exigências técnicas. O objetivo desse estudo foi a análise detalhada da atual situação das legislações estaduais de combate a incêndio e pânico de Minas Gerais e Rio de Janeiro, para que possa servir de apoio a futuras pesquisas relacionadas ao tema. Foram feitos levantamentos bibliográficos que abordavam o tema e estudo das legislações, visando analisar se o tema é abordado e as possíveis diferenças entre eles. Foi elaborado um quadro comparativo com os temas a serem discutidos. Verificou-se que a diferença na legislação entre os estados é preocupante, podendo encontrar uma diversidade de normas que estão em vigor nos estados brasileiros. Tais normas são dotadas de uma complexidade de parâmetros no dimensionamento de projetos de combate e prevenção de incêndios, tornando incerta a elaboração e posteriormente a execução. Sendo assim, o Brasil deverá assumir uma padronização com relação as legislações de forma a buscar soluções para prever e minimizar os riscos de incêndios, estando apto a fiscalizar e prevenir tais sinistros de forma eficiente.
Self-Touch as Sociality
Authors: Streeck Jürgen
Published: August 2020

Self-touch is often understood as a form of interactional disengagement and withdrawal, of self-involvement, and co-participants are said to disattend ‘self-grooming’ actionsIn this paper, I present interactional sequences during which the parties touch themselves at the same time, or in succession. These data thus suggest that self-touch can also be an engagement display. Approaching self-touch from the ‘point of view’ of idle hands in need of something to do, and of interaction as in need of ongoing mutual coordination, I present cooperative self-touch as a display of the deeply social nature of the human body.
Awareness on Intradermal Injection among Dentists
Authors: Palaniappan Chithambara Shathviha , Ganapathy Dhanraj
Published: August 2020

An intradermal injection may be given for diagnostic purposes checking for allergy, lymphogranuloma inguinale or tuberculosis and for treating diseases like vitiligo. Due to the limited blood supply of that skin layer, medication injected into the dermis is absorbed slowly. The aim of the study is to determine the level of knowledge and awareness on the use of intradermal injection in dental practice by the dentists. The study was formulated as a questionnaire-based observational study comprising 100 participants. All the subjects were requested to respond to a list of questions regarding the intradermal injections and their use in dental practice by the dentists. More than 88% of the dentists are aware of the intradermal injection and they prefer them during the clinical practice for diagnostic purposes. The intradermal injection of lidocaine reduces the pain in patients and dentists are aware of its use in dental practice.
A Survey Based Study on Effectiveness of Oil Pulling and Mouthwash
Authors: Ram V. Vamshi , Priya Jothi , Devi Gayathri
Published: August 2020

Aim: The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness between oil pulling (Gingelly oil) and mouthwash.

Objective: To create awareness and to compare the effectiveness between oil pulling and mouthwash.

Materials and Methods: The questionnaire- based study was carried out online through a survey monkey app. Individuality was ensured when the subjects filled up the survey. 100 students took part in the survey. A total of 10 questions were asked based on the responses from the subjects, statistical analysis was performed and the results were tabulated systematically.

Result: The studyshows that the effectiveness of cleaning the mouth is almost equal between oil pulling and mouthwash with a result 51% for mouth wash and 49% for oil pulling. And for the question which is safer among oil pulling and mouthwash the result shows that oil pulling(61%) is safer than that of mouthwash(39%). But nowadays the usage of oil pulling is comparatively less than mouthwash. But still some people are following traditional methods.

Conclusion: This survey was done to access the knowledge and awareness on the effect of oil pulling and mouthwash.
Knowledge and Awareness about Food Carcinogens among Dental Students
Authors: Trishala A. , Ganapathy Dhanraj
Published: August 2020

The risk of developing cancer from carcinogens occurring in food is of widespread interest to scientific researchers, food policymakers, and food surveillance institutions, as well as to the general public. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and awareness of food carcinogens among dental students. A structured self-assessed online questionnaire having 15 questions on food carcinogens was prepared and distributed to the dental students who have clinical exposure including 3rd BDS, final BDS, interns, and postgraduates of all specialties. It was circulated using online software, a survey planet, and the response was collected through it. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software. Considering the responses, it can be interpreted that the knowledge regarding food carcinogens is above average among dental students. Also, postgraduate students were more knowledgeable than undergraduate students. Interns showed more awareness than third-year or final year undergraduate students. Educational workshops, conferences, and CDE’s are essential for both undergraduates and postgraduates to improve their knowledge regarding various carcinogenic properties of different food items.
Knowledge and Awareness about Ketamine as Anaesthetic among Dental Students - A Survey
Authors: David Debarun , Ganapathy Dhanraj
Published: August 2020

Ketamine has been used as a safe and effective sedative to treat adults and children exhibiting high levels of anxiety or fear during dental treatment. Pediatric dentistry often involves patients with high levels of anxiety and fear and possibly a few positive dental experiences. Patient management can involve behavioral approaches, as well as the use of sedation or general anesthesia with a variety of agents, including ketamine. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and awareness of ketamine as an anesthetic among dental students. A questionnaire survey was carried out online containing 10 questions that were sent to 100 dental students through survey planet software and the data was collected and statistically analysed. 74% of the students were aware about the uses and adverse effects of ketamine .Within the limits of this study, it may be concluded that most of the students were aware of ketamine as an anesthetic.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Color Doppler Ultrasonography among Patients Having Deep Vein Thrombosis by Taking Venography as Gold Standard
Authors: Shahzad Ghazala , Kumar Kelash , Kumar Mahesh , Hassan Aashfa , Rafiq Nida
Published: August 2020

Objective: To assess the diagnostic accuracy of Color Doppler ultrasonography in patients with Deep Venous Thrombosis by using venography as gold standard at Radiology department of Civil Hospital Karachi.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried out from August 2014 to March 2015 at Radiology Unit, Civil Hospital Karachi. Patients of either gender with deep venous thrombosis were included based on clinical examination and observation. For Doppler ultrasound, the combinations of spectral scanning, color compression, and grey scale were used. Potential anomalies including existing or non-existing thrombus along with its magnitude were evaluated. Color Doppler Sonographic results included incompressible, lack of phasicity, site of flow space and absence of increasing trend. Scan diagnosis was subsequently contrasted with venographic reports and recorded in self-made proforma. Data was analyzed by using SPSS version 20.

Results: Total 104 patients were studied and their average age was 52.4±9.4 years. Males and females were 56% and 44% respectively. Color Doppler ultrasonography findings showed 99% sensitivity and 80% specificity. Positive predictive value 99% and negative predictive value 80% and accuracy was 98%.

Conclusion: Color Doppler ultrasonography is cost-effective, efficient, safe, and non-invasive method to diagnose the deep venous thrombosis of acute nature.
To Assess the Level of Salivary Calcium after the Consumption of Carbonated Soft Drinks
Authors: Akshaya K. , Muralidharan N. P. , . Selvaraghavan
Published: August 2020

Diet is a major etiological factor for enamel erosion and dental caries. The proportionality of dental caries increases with the increase in duration of food in the oral cavity. This study was undertaken with the aim of assessing the level of salivary calcium with the consumption of beverages. Major chemical constituents of beverages include, carbohydrates, sweeteners, acids (pH-2.5 to 3.5) phenolic compounds, steroids, nitrogen compounds, ethanol (for alcoholic beverages) and carbon dioxide (for carbonated soft drinks). The presence of carbon in the soft drinks reduces the pH leading to demineralisation and erosion of enamel layer when consumed. The sugars and carbon present in the soft drinks are responsible for dissolution of enamel. Thus the aim of the current study is to analyse the effect of carbonated soft drinks on salivary calcium level. In this study 25 subjects were selected. All were given 200ml of carbonated soft drinks immediately after opening the soft drinks bottle to avoid cessation of carbon dioxide. The level of salivary calcium is measured and analysed by paired sampling using a commercially available analyser kit and the results were statistically analysed, compared and interpreted. There is an increase in the salivary calcium level after the consumption of carbonated soft drinks because of its acidic ph and sugar content. The acidic environment causes demineralisation of the enamel making the enamel brittle and weaker. From this Study, it can be verified that the level of calcium in the saliva increases due to the action of the carbon and sucrose present in the soft drinks on the enamel. This can be verified with the significant p value (p<0.005).
Age-and Gender-Related Differences in Anticoagulant Drugs Use Patterns
Authors: Ahmed Nehad J.
Published: September 2020

Aim: Drug utilization study is considered a powerful exploratory tool to assess the present trends of drug prescribing and appropriateness of prescription and to analyze the differences in drugs utilization with respect to several factors such as age and gender. This study aims to describe the age-and gender-related differences in anticoagulant drugs use patterns.

Methodology: The present study included the review of outpatient electronic prescriptions that include an anticoagulant drug in 2018 in a public hospital in Al-karj, Saudi Arabia.

Results: Enoxaparin was prescribed mainly for patients between 20-39 years old (63.48%). Warfarin was prescribed mainly for patient more than 50 years old (59.38%). Enoxaparin was prescribed mainly for female patients (86.09%). Rivaroxaban and warfarin were prescribed mainly for female patients, 64.71% and 59.38% respectively.

Conclusion: There are differences in prescribing anticoagulant according to gender and age. It is important to know the differences in prescribing anticoagulants according to age and gender and if the treatment is inappropriate, it is important to identify and address reasons for treatment disparities in anticoagulation prescription.
Cloning and expression of a glycine transporter from mouse brain
Authors: Liu Qing-Rong , Nelson Hannah , Mandiyan Sreekala , López-Corcuera Beatriz , Nelson Nathan
Published: July 2002

We have isolated a cDNA clone from a mouse brain library encoding the glycine transporter (GLYT). Xenopus oocytes injected with a synthetic mRNA accumulated [3H]glycine to levels of up to 80‐fold above control values. The uptake was specific for glycine and dependent on the presence of Na+ and Cl− in the medium. The cDNA sequence predicts a highly hydrophobic protein of 633 amino acids with 12 potential transmembrane helices. The predicted amino acid sequence has 40–45% identity to the GABA, noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine transporters. This implies that all of these neurotransmitter, transporters may have evolved from a common ancestral gene that diverged into the GABA, glycine and catecholamine subfamilies at nearly the same time.
A new family of basic cysteine‐rich plant antifungal proteins from Brassicaceae species
Authors: Terras Franky R.G. , Torrekens Sophie , Van Leuven Fred , Osborn Rupert W. , Vanderleyden Jozef , Cammue Bruno P.A. , Broekaert Willem F.
Published: July 2002

Out of seeds of 4 Brassicaceae species, 7 antifungal proteins were isolated which are nearly identical to 2 previously characterized radish seed antifungal proteins. These basic proteins, multimers of a 5 kDa polypeptide, specifically inhibit fungal growth. One of the antifungal proteins has decreased antifungal activity and an increased antibacterial activity. In addition, the previously described antifungal activity of the radish seed 2S albumins was extended to the 2S albumins of the seeds of the 4 other Brassicaceae species. A 2S albumin‐like trypsin‐inhibitor from barley seeds was found to have much less activity against fungi.
Dystrophin and utrophin: the missing links!
Authors: Winder S.J. , Gibson T.J. , Kendrick-Jones J.
Published: July 2002

There is considerable sequence homology between dystrophin and utrophin, both at the protein and DNA level, and consequently it was assumed that their domain structures and functions would be similar. As more of the detailed biochemical and cell biological properties of these two proteins become known, so it becomes clear that there are subtle if not significant differences between them. We review recent findings and present new hypotheses into the structural and functional properties of the actin‐binding domain, central coiled‐coil region and regulatory/membrane protein‐binding regions of dystrophin and utrophin.
Defining benzodiazepine dependence: the confusion persists
Authors: Linsen SM , Zitman FG , Breteler MHM
Published: July 2002

Little consensus exists on the risk of benzodiazepine (BZD) dependence. We investigated how often BZD dependence and related concepts have been defined in the literature on BZD effects in humans. In addition, the definitions of BZD dependence were compared in order to assess the similarity of contents. From a total of 250 papers (published between 1988 and 1991) 51 provided 126 dependence-related definitions. Six studies referred to the DSM definitions and one to the WHO definition. The obsolete concept of addiction was frequently defined (n=13), with little consensus about its meaning. Psychological and physical dependence were defined fairly often (n=29), also with low levels of consensus. We conclude that the discussion on the risk of BZD dependence would be well-served by attempting to improve consensus first. This may lead to more meaningful data on the incidence, prevalence and relevant co-factors of BZD dependence. An outline for criteria for benzodiazepine dependence is presented.
Rational re‐design of the substrate binding site of flavocytochrome P450 BM3
Authors: Ost Tobias W.B , Miles Caroline S , Murdoch Jane , Cheung York-Fong , Reid Graeme A , Chapman Stephen K , Munro Andrew W
Published: July 2002

Bacillus megateriumP450 BM3 is a fatty acid hydroxylase with selectivity for long chain substrates (C12–C20). Binding or activity with substrates of chain length <C12has not been reported. Rational mutagenesis was used to re‐design the enzyme to encourage binding of short chain fatty acids (C4–C10). We show that wild‐type P450 BM3 has activity and weak affinity for substrates as short as butyrate (C4). However, turnover/binding of short chain substrates is dramatically increased by introducing a novel substrate carboxylate binding site close to the heme. Mutant L181K shows catalytic efficiency (kcat/KM) increased >13‐fold with butyrate, while the L75T/L181K double mutant haskcat/KMincreased >15‐fold with hexanoate and binding (Kd) improved >28‐fold for butyrate. Removing the arginine 47/lysine 51 carboxylate binding motif at the mouth of the active site disfavours binding of all fatty acids, indicating its importance in the initial recognition of substrates.
A small peptide derived from Flt‐1 (VEGFR‐1) functions as an angiogenic inhibitor
Authors: Tan Darren C.W. , Kini R.Manjunatha , Jois Seetharama D.S. , Lim Derrick K.F. , Xin Lixia , Ge Ruowen
Published: July 2002

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an angiogenic stimulator which functions through two endothelial specific tyrosine kinase receptors, Flt‐1 and Flk‐1. In this work, we show that an 11‐amino acid peptide derived from the second immunoglobulin‐like domain of Flt‐1 functions as an angiogenic inhibitor in chick chorioallantoic membrane and inhibited VEGF‐induced vascular permeability in Miles’ assay without binding to VEGF directly. Circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance analyses indicate that this peptide forms a stable extended structure in solution, presumably β‐sheet structure and is most likely existing as a dimer. Our results suggest that this small peptide functions as an angiogenic inhibitor by inhibiting VEGF function through a non‐VEGF binding mechanism.
Selection and identification of single domain antibody fragments from camel heavy‐chain antibodies
Authors: Arbabi Ghahroudi M , Desmyter A , Wyns L , Hamers R , Muyldermans S
Published: July 2002

Functional heavy‐chain γ‐immunoglobulins lacking light chains occur naturally in Camelidae. We now show the feasibility of immunising a dromedary, cloning the repertoire of the variable domains of its heavy‐chain antibodies and panning, leading to the successful identification of minimum sized antigen binders. The recombinant binders are expressed well in E. coli, extremely stable, highly soluble, and react specifically and with high affinity to the antigens. This approach can be viewed as a general route to obtain small binders with favourable characteristics and valuable perspectives as modular building blocks to manufacture multispecific or multifunctional chimaeric proteins.
Expression of bovine leukemia virusENVglycoprotein in insect cells by recombinant baculovirus
Authors: Russo Silvia , Montermini Laura , Berkovitz-Siman-Tov Revital , Ponti Wilma , Poli Giorgio
Published: July 2002

The gp51‐p30 glycoprotein constituting BLV envelope was expressed in Sf‐21 insect cells by means of recombinant baculoviruses. Post‐infection cell lysates were analyzed, in order to define the immunologic reactivity of recombinant products. Oligosaccharide chains, containingN‐acetylglucosamine, mannose, galactose and sialic acid were found on recombinant gp51‐p30. In order to investigate the timing of transcription and translation of the glycoprotein, kinetic assays were carried out on cell lysates and directly in situ on Sf‐21 cells during the course of baculovirus infection. The use of different solubilizing reagents was also evaluated in order to rescue recombinant glycoprotein from its subcellular location.
The naloxone conjunctival test: an underused tool? A review of the available data
Authors: Auriacombe M , Cornish JW , Skoble L , O’Brien CP
Published: July 2002

There is currently no simple and morbidity-free procedure available to determine opiate dependence in patients. There is preliminary evidence, however, that the naloxone conjunctival test may be useful in this regard. This test consists of instilling a drop of saline solution of naloxone hydrochloride (an opiate-receptor antagonist) into the subject's eye. This causes significant homolateral mydriasis (anisocoria) in the eye of a chronic opioid-dependent subject and not in that of a non-dependent subject. We reviewed the international literature on the naloxone conjunctival test using the Medline database and a manual search of major scientific journals specialized in the field of substance abuse. Up to March 1995, we identified six articles dealing specifically with the use of opiate antagonist ophthalmic solutions in populations of chronic opioid addicts. Four of the articles reported the occurrence of mydriasis when a solution of naloxone is used in opioid addicts. Two of the articles reported that there was no differential change in pupil size when the naloxone solution is used; however, one study used a much weaker and the other a much stronger solution of naloxone than reported in the other studies. From our review of the literature, it appears that the naloxone conjunctival test holds great promise as a simple and morbidity-free method of testing for chronic opioid addiction and, therefore, it should be studied further and its usage eventually developed.
Cortisol-binding globulin levels in bipolar disorder
Authors: Vieta E , Gastó C , de Osaba MJ Martínez , Otero A , Nieto E , Pintor L , Blanch J , Vallejo J
Published: July 2002

Cortisol-binding globulin (CBG) is an alpha-1-glycoprotein with high affinity for cortiso that could be a potential biological marker of chronic stress, according to several previous studies. In order to examine CBG concentrations in bipolar disorder, we determined serum CBG levels by radioimmunoassay with monoclonal antibodies in a sample of 39 RDC bipolar I patients in remission and 21 healthy age-, sex- and weight-matched control subjects. Only lithium treatment was permitted. Plasma cortisol and serum lithium levels were also determined. Bipolar males showed statistically significant lower serum CBG levels than controls, whereas women showed very similar values. No correlation was found between CBG levels and cortisol or lithium concentrations. It is concluded that CBG levels are affected by chronic affective illness, even during remission periods, at least in bipolar males.
Clinical trials update: OPTIME‐CHF, PRAISE‐2, ALL‐HAT
Authors: Thackray Simon , Witte Klaus , Clark Andrew L. , Cleland John G.F.
Published: July 2002

This is a summary of reports of presentation made at the American College of Cardiology 49th Scientific Sessions, Anaheim, 12–15 March 2000. Studies with a particular interest for heart failure physicians have been reviewed. OPTIME‐CHF: Outcomes of a Prospective Trial of Intravenous Milrinone for Exacerbations of Chronic Heart Failure. OPTIME‐CHF was a randomised‐controlled trial comparing a 48‐h infusion of Milrinone or standard therapy in 951 patients recruited over a 2‐year period. Patients were excluded if the investigator believed their clinical condition mandated inotropic therapy. Patients were randomised within 48 h of admission for an acute exacerbation of chronic heart failure to receive Milrinone or placebo infision for 48 h. Of the patients 43% were diabetics, 70% were receiving an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, 25% were already on a beta‐Blocker, and 34% had atrial fibrillation. There was no significant difference between the two groups in length of hospital stay during the index admission, subsequent readmissions and days in hospital over the following 60 days. Subjective clinical assessment scores were also no different. There was an average admission rate over the next year of one per patient in both groups. However, there was a significant increase in the incidence of sustained hypotension in the Milrinone group, which accounted for all of the increased adverse event rates for the active therapy. The 60‐day mortality was 10% in both groups. This and previous trials of the oral formulation of Milrinone have now clearly demonstrated a lack of benefit with Milrinone in either during acute exacerbations of or in stable severe chronic heart failure [Packer M, Carver JR, Rodeheffer RJ et al. Effect of oral Milrinone on mortality in severe chronic heart failure. N Engl J Med 1991;325:1468–1475.]. Medium sized studies of Milrinone in patients with milder severities of heart failure also suggested an adverse impact on prognosis in the presence or absence of digoxin [DiBianco R, Shabetai R, Kostuk W, Moran J, Schlant RC, Wright R. A comparison of oral Milrinone, digoxin, and their combination in the treatment of patients with chronic heart failure. N Engl J Med 1989;320:677–683.]. Whether Milrinone even has a role for the management of a haemodyamic crisis requiring inotropic therapy must also be questioned.
Evolutionary Implications of Habitat Choice
Authors: Porter Cody K , Akcali Christopher K
Published: August 2020

There is a growing realisation that habitat choice can have profound consequences for the processes of adaptation and speciation. Habitat choice may be a rapid and effective route by which individual and population fitness are increased, potentially playing a major role in adaptive evolution that has historically been solely attributed to natural selection. Recent research indicates that there may be complex interactions between habitat selection and other processes (i.e. natural selection, phenotypic plasticity) during adaptive evolution. Likewise, the use of alternative habitats by diverging lineages appears to be a major barrier to gene flow in nature, suggesting that habitat choice also plays a major role in the diversification of life. Although the available evidence is tantalising, much remains to be known about the true extent of habitat choice's role in the evolutionary process and the mechanisms underlying its evolutionary consequences.

Key Concepts

Habitat choice can be a cause (and a consequence) of adaptation.

Habitat choice may reduce or increase the scope for other processes to contribute to adaptation.

Habitat isolation is often a strong barrier to gene flow between diverging lineages.

Habitat isolation evolves early in the process of divergence.

Habitat isolation may have been a key contributor to the extraordinary diversity of herbivorous insects.

The specific mechanisms underlying individual dispersal and settlement decisions can greatly affect the evolutionary consequences of habitat choice.
Circadian Rhythms inNeurospora
Authors: Hurley Jennifer M
Published: August 2020

Circadian rhythms are highly conserved, 24‐h physiological cycles that, through the ideal programming of behaviour, enhance fitness by ensuring many organismal functions are optimally synchronised with the appropriate phase of the day. Circadian rhythms are controlled via an intracellular, highly regulated, transcription‐translation based negative feedback loop, or ‘clock’, and this feedback loop directly or indirectly impacts a large portion of the genome. Over half a century, genetic and molecular analysis of the circadian system ofNeurospora crassahas uncovered a number of paradigms now seen to be universal in the operation of circadian rhythms. This article summarises what is currently understood about the mechanisms that underly circadian regulation inNeurosporaand highlights many of the contributionsNeurosporahas made to understanding these same mechanisms in higher eukaryotes.

Neurospora crassais a key model system for eukaryotic clocks.

TheNeurosporaclock comprises a transcription‐translation negative feedback loop.

Intrinsic protein disorder is essential for clock function inNeurospora.

TheNeurosporaclock extensively regulates physiological output.

Circadian output is regulated at the transcriptional as well as posttranscriptional levels.

TheNeurosporaclock is resistant to environmental effects while remaining sensitive to environmental cues.

Light, temperature and metabolic conditions are all environmental cues that can impact the oscillations of the circadian system.
Biology of Green Sulfur Bacteria
Authors: Imhoff Johannes F
Published: August 2020

Green sulfur bacteria, the Chlorobiaceae, have gained much attention because of unique structures of the photosynthetic apparatus and the presence of chlorosomes as very powerful light antenna that can capture minute amounts of light. This has important ecological consequences, because the efficient light‐harvesting determines the ecological niche of these bacteria at the lowermost part of stratified environments where the least of light is available. The oxidation of sulfide as their outmost important photosynthetic electron donor involves the deposition of elemental sulfur globules outside the cells and separates the process of sulfide oxidation to sulfate into two parts. This is the basis for stable syntrophic associations between green sulfur bacteria and sulfur‐ and sulfate‐reducing bacteria in which the sulfur compounds are recycled. The green sulfur bacteria are distantly related to other bacteria and systematically members of the Chlorobiaceae family withChlorobium,Chlorobaculum,ProsthecochlorisandChloroherpetonas representative genera.

Green sulfur bacteria depend on light for life due to their obligate phototrophic metabolism.

Green sulfur bacteria are most efficient in photosynthesis due to the presence of light‐harvesting organelles, the chlorosomes, which are filled with bacteriochlorophyll molecules.

Green sulfur bacteria are offsprings of one of the most ancient bacterial lineages performing biosynthesis of bacteriochlorophyll and photosynthesis.

Green sulfur bacteria inhabit the lowermost light‐receiving part of the chemocline in the stratified environment due to their high sensitivity to oxygen, high tolerance to the toxic sulfide and highly efficient light capture.

Green sulfur bacteria are important drivers of oxidation of reduced sulfur compounds in the stratified, sulfide‐containing environment receiving low irradiation.
mRNA Stability
Authors: Kaberdin Vladimir
Published: August 2020

The steady‐state level of a messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) is determined by both its rate of synthesis and degradation. The degradation of mRNA is an important tool employed by cells to control gene expression and to adjust the level of protein synthesis in response to physiological needs or environmental signals. The degradation of mRNA in all organisms is mastered by a rather restricted number of enzymes with major (endo‐ and exoribonucleases) and ancillary (e.g. RNA helicases) functions. Some of these enzymes are phylogenetically conserved across the three domains of life – bacteria, archaea and eukarya. Moreover, the main components of the RNA decay machinery can associate with each other to form multienzyme complexes, which makes it possible to coordinate and control mRNA decayin vivo.

The stability of individual mRNAs varies and is dependent on intrinsic properties of transcripts (i.e. specific structure and sequence) and action oftrans‐encoded regulatory factors.

The enzymes and ancillary factors involved in mRNA decay in pro‐ and eukaryotic organisms can associate with each other to form multienzyme complexes such as degradosomes or exosomes.

Mechanisms of mRNA decay in pro‐ and eukaryotes share many common steps.

Pro‐ and eukaryotic cells use specific mechanisms to eliminate defective mRNAs.

Numerous noncoding RNAs control mRNA decay in pro‐ and eukaryotes.
Eukaryotic Recombination: Initiation by Double‐Strand Breaks
Authors: Lalwani Kiran , Goodenow Donna , Richardson Christine
Published: August 2020

A double‐strand break (DSB) in one deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) double helix, caused by DNA damaging agents such as ionising radiation or normal metabolic processes, can stimulate repair through multiple pathways. Homologous recombination (HR) utilises a second unbroken DNA double helix containing homologous sequences as a donor of genetic information to restore the intact DNA structure, while nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) relegates broken DNA ends together with little to no homology. Deficiency in these repair pathways can cause genome instability can drive carcinogenesis. DSB stimulated repair can cause illegitimate HR between heterologous chromosome of the ligation of ends of DNA from heterologous chromosomes.

Exogenous and endogenous agents can cause deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) breaks leading to genome instability.

Repair of double‐strand breaks (DSB) in eukaryotes occurs by either homology‐dependent or homology‐independent mechanisms.

Homologous recombination (HR) facilitates high‐fidelity repair of DSBs and other plausible DNA damage.

Site‐specific DSBs within the genome are used to study the explicit mechanism involved in the DSB repair.

Unlike other model organisms, HR in higher eukaryotes requires additional protein factors.

Mutations in HR proteins can increase predisposition to cancer.
Nematomorpha (Horsehair Worms)
Authors: Poinar George
Published: August 2020

The worldwide phylum Nematomorpha, that parasitise aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, is a relict group unrelated to any other living or extinct phylum. One genus,
Nectonema
, is marine, while the remaining genera occur in freshwater or inside terrestrial hosts. Hairworms have two or more hosts in their life cycle. Upon hatching, the microscopic free‐living larvae are passively ingested by and encyst inside paratenic invertebrate hosts without further development. When the paratenic host is eaten by a larger invertebrate, it leaves its cyst and enters the body cavity of the new host where it may grow to an adult. If the second host is not suitable for development, the hairworm larva can encyst again and wait to be ingested by a final host. There is no direct economic or medical importance of hairworms and the long, slender adults are rarely noticed except when emerging from their final host.

Hairworms (Nematomorpha) are a unique group of invertebrate parasites.

Hairworm adults are free‐living and occur in fresh or saltwater.

After hatching, the microscopic larvae enter and encyst in invertebrates and vertebrates.

Final development occurs in large invertebrates that consume the paratenic hosts.

Most final hosts are killed when the hairworms emerge.

Hairworms are an ancient group, with fossils dating back to the mid‐Cretaceous.
Serum levels of cell adhesion molecules in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Chang Bao‐Luen , Ro Long‐Sun , Chen Chiung‐Mei , Lo Yen‐Shi , Lyu Rong‐Kuo , Kuo Hung‐Chou , Liao Ming‐Feng , Chang Chun‐Wei , Chang Hong‐Shiu , Huang Ching‐Chang , Wu Yih‐Ru , Chu Chun‐Che , Weng Yi‐Ching , Chang Kuo‐Hsuan
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption is a critical pathological process involved in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Here, we characterized the profile of five cell adhesion molecules in patients with NMOSD.

Methods

We measured levels of cell adhesion molecules, including ICAM‐1, ICAM‐2, VCAM‐1, PECAM‐1, and NCAM‐1, in the serum of 28 patients with NMOSD, 24 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), and 25 healthy controls (HCs).

Results

ICAM‐2 levels (median: 394.8 ng/mL) were increased in patients with NMOSD compared with MS (267.1 ng/mL, P = 0.005) and HCs (257.4 ng/mL, P = 0.007), and VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1 levels were higher in patients with NMOSD (641.9 ng/mL and 212.7 ng/mL, respectively) compared with HCs (465 ng/mL [P = 0.013] and 141.8 ng/mL [P = 0.002], respectively). However, serum PECAM‐1 levels were lower in patients with NMOSD (89.62 ng/mL) compared with MS (106.9 ng/mL, P = 0.015) and HCs (107.2 ng/mL, P = 0.007). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that PECAM‐1 (area under the curve (AUC): 0.729) and ICAM‐2 (AUC: 0.747) had adequate abilities to distinguish NMOSD from MS, and VCAM‐1 (AUC: 0.719), PECAM‐1 (area under the curve: 0.743), ICAM‐1 (AUC: 0.778), and ICAM‐2 (AUC: 0.749) exhibited potential to differentiate NMOSD and HCs. Serum levels of PECAM‐1 also demonstrated a negative correlation with Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale scores in patients with NMOSD.

Interpretation

Our results reveal possible BBB breakdown signals specifically observed in NMOSD and highlight the potential role of cell adhesion molecules as biomarkers of this disease.
Altered coupling between resting‐state glucose metabolism and functional activity in epilepsy
Authors: Wang Jingjuan , Shan Yi , Dai Jindong , Cui Bixiao , Shang Kun , Yang Hongwei , Chen Zhongwei , Shan Baoci , Zhao Guoguang , Lu Jie
Published: August 2020

Objective

Altered functional activities and hypometabolism have been found in medial temporal lobe epilepsy patients with hippocampal sclerosis (mTLE‐HS). Hybrid PET/MR scanners provide opportunities to explore the relationship between resting‐state energy consumption and functional activities, but whether repeated seizures disturb the bioenergetic coupling and its relationship with seizure outcomes remain unknown.

Methods

18F‐FDG PET and resting‐state functional MRI (rs‐fMRI) scans were performed with hybrid PET/MR in 26 patients with mTLE‐HS and in healthy controls. Energy consumption was quantified by 18F‐FDG standardized uptake value ratio(SUVR) relative to cerebellum. Spontaneous neural activities were estimated using regional homogeneity (ReHo), fractional amplitude of low frequency fluctuations (fALFF) from rs‐fMRI. Between‐group differences in SUVR and rs‐fMRI derived metrics were evaluated by two‐sample t test. Voxel‐wise spatial correlations were explored between SUVR and ReHo, fALFF across gray matter and compared between groups. Furthermore, the relationships between altered fALFF/SUVR and ReHo/SUVR coupling and surgical outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Both the patients and healthy controls showed significant positive correlations between SUVR and rs‐fMRI metrics. Spatial correlations between SUVR and fMRI‐derived metrics across gray matter were significantly higher in patients with mTLE‐HS compared with healthy controls (fALFF/SUVR, P < 0.001; ReHo/SUVR, P = 0.022). Higher fALFF/SUVR couplings were found in patients who had Engel class IA after surgery than all other (P = 0.025), while altered ReHo/SUVR couplings (P = 0.097) were not.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrated altered bioenergetic coupling across gray matter and its relationship with seizure outcomes, which may provide novel insights into pathogenesis of mTLE‐HS and potential biomarkers for epilepsy surgery planning.