bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synaptic Relations in the Atrial Nervous System of Amphioxus
Authors: Bone Quentin
Published: April 2021

A detailed description of the system of peripheral nerve-cells upon the gut and diverticulum of amphioxus (Branchiostoma) is given; it is shown experimentally by means of degeneration experiments that these cells are connected with the central nervous system by their own axons, which run in the dorsal-root nerves. The form and connexion of the cells are described, special attention is paid to the problems of the multinucleate cells in the plexus, and to the occurrence of possible asynaptic connexion between neighbouring nerve-cells. No sheath-cells have been observed upon the peripheral nerve-fibres, either within the atrial plexus or upon the dorsal-root nerve bundles ; earlier misinterpretations of the nuclei of the cells of the epineurium around the dorsal nerve bundles are discussed. The origin of the atrial system in ontogeny is discussed; it is suggested that it arises in an analogous manner to the enteric plexuses of vertebrates, by outgrowth from the central nervous system. The part that this system of nerve-cells plays in the life of the animal is not known.

Finally, the relation of this system of cells to that found upon the guts of other groups of animals is discussed, and it is concluded that the system is not homologous with the enteric systems of nerve-cells in the vertebrates.
Note on the Use of Bromophenol Blue for the Histochemical Recognition of Protein
Authors: Baker John R.
Published: April 2021

There is not sufficient evidence to prove that bromophenol blue is a reliable histochemical reagent for the recognition of protein. It is a powerful acid dye, capable of making direct links with basic groups in tissue-constituents (and perhaps also with certain acidic groups, through mercury).
The ‘Posterior Lobes’ of Nephtys: Observations on three New England Species
Authors: Clark R. B.
Published: April 2021

The disposition of the prostomial mucus-glands in Nephtys picta, N. incisa, and N. bucera provides additional evidence that the posterior lobes, which are attached to the supra-oesophageal ganglion of species such as N. californiensis and N. caeca, have been formed by the posterior migration of prostomial epidermal mucus-cells. In N. picta there are few mucus-cells in the prostomium. In N. incisa there are many, and some at the sides of the prostomium occur in clumps and project into the prostomial cavity. In N. bucera there are numerous mucus-cells, but they are massed at the sides of the prostomium and open to the exterior over a narrow zone. The cell-bodies are in intimate contact with the sides of the supra-oesophageal ganglion and lie within the membranes investing the brain. Subsequent evolution of the prostomial mucus-glands has led to the accumulation of their cell-bodies in the posterior part of the supra-oesophageal ganglion in the form of posterior lobes.
The CO2 dissociation curves and the buffering of crab’s muscle and nerve preparations
Authors: Cowan S. L.
Published: April 2021

The CO2 binding powers of frog’s blood (Wastl and Seliskar, 1925), muscle (Fenn, 1928; Stella, 1929) and nerve (Fenn, 1928) have been investigated by equilibrating the substance under examination with known partial pressures of CO2 and determining the amounts (of CO2) which were chemically combined. Hence, from the CO2 dissociation curve, the pH inside the tissue was calculated by means of the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation; also, from the slope of the curve showing the connection between the partial pressure of CO2 and the pH, the variation of the buffering power of the tissue, as defined by Van Slyke (1922), with pH could be calculated.
The Effects of Hypercapnia on the Arterial Acid-Base Status in the Tegu Lizard, Tupinambis Nigropunctatus
Authors: Glass M. L. , Heisler N.
Published: April 2021

The effects of hypercapnia on the arterial acid-base status of the Tegu lizard, Tupinambis nigropunctatus (Spix), were studied at 25 °C. Arterial increased over the first 2 h of hypercapnia causing a fall in arterial plasma pH (pHa) of about 0·17 units with ≈4% CO2 and about 0·3 units with ≈7 % CO2. In both conditions, plasma pH increased slightly (≈ 0·02 units) between 2 and 72 h. Plasma [HCO3−] rose during the initial increase of (by approx. 5·5 mmol l−1 with ≈7 % CO2; approx. 1·9 mmol l−1 with ≈4% CO2) during the first 2h, and further increased by 4 mmol I-1 between 2 and 72 h of hypercapnia, while did not change. The increases of plasma [HCO3−] resulted in a recovery of pH, by 38 or 32 % (≈4 and ≈7 % CO2, respectively) relative to the fall of pHa that would occur at constant [HCO3−].

The limited and incomplete compensation of pHa during environmental hypercapnia is consistent with data for other air-breathing ectothermic vertebrates, and contrasts with the typical response of water-breathing fish, in which compensation is usually complete.
Amiloride-Sensitive Sodium Flux and Potentials in Perfused Carcinus Gill Preparations
Authors: Lucu Čedomil , Siebers Dietrich
Published: April 2021

Sodium and chloride fluxes, as well as transbranchial potentials (TBP) were studied in isolated perfused gill filaments of the crab Carcinus mediterraneus. Experiments were carried out in media that were either hyposmotic to the perfusion solution (asymmetrical conditions) or isosmotic (symmetrical conditions).

Fluxes were found to be diffusional in gills under asymmetrical conditions; amiloride induced an inhibitory effect on influxes, without affecting TBP.

Under symmetrical conditions, TBP was −7·6 ±2·3 mV, suggesting that the electrogenic ion pump contributes significantly to the development of TBP. Immediately after addition of 2·5 × 10−4mol l−1 amiloride to the external solution, sodium influxes were reduced to 31% of those in the control group, and TBP was significantly hyperpolarized from −7·6 to −14·8 mV. The absence of Ca2+ under symmetrical conditions diminished TBP hyperpolarization.

Half-maximal inhibition of sodium influxes by amiloride was at 7× 10−5 mol 1-1. This low amiloride affinity is typical of low resistance leaky epithelia. Sodium transport is discussed as an amiloride-affected influx, probably as a Na/H antiport.
The Salivary Catechol Oxidase/Peroxidase Activities of the Mosquito Anopheles Albimanus
Authors: Ribeiro José M. C. , Nussenzveig Roberto H.
Published: April 2021

Salivary gland homogenates from adult female Anopheles albimanus mosquitoes relaxed aortic rings preconstricted with noradrenaline (NA). This relaxation is slow and is due to destruction of NA. Incubation of NA with the homogenate yielded a product with a spectrum consistent with the corresponding adrenochrome. Oxidation of NA was enhanced by a superoxide generation system and inhibited by the combined action of superoxide dismutase and catalase. Additionally, peroxidase activity on both synthetic (o-dianisidine) and biologically active (serotonin) substrates was also present in the salivary gland homogenates, this latter activity requiring hydrogen peroxide. Noradrenaline oxidation, serotonin and o-dianisidine peroxidation and vasodilation all co-elute with a heme protein of relative molecular mass 50000, as determined by molecular sieving chromatography. Peroxidase activity was localized in the posterior (female-specific) lobes of salivary glands and was also detected in nitrocellulose membranes probed by hungry mosquitoes. Protein and peroxidase activities were significantly lower in salivary glands of mosquitoes after probing and feeding on blood. It is suggested that adult female Anopheles albimanus mosquitoes contain a salivary heme peroxidase that functions during blood finding and blood feeding by destroying hemostatically active biogenic amines released by the vertebrate host during tissue destruction.
Regenerating Adult Cockroach Dorsal Unpaired Median Neurones In Vitro Retain their In Vivo Membrane Characteristics
Authors: Newland P. L. , Smith P. J. S. , Howes E. A.
Published: April 2021

The ability of differentiated neurones to recover from disease or injury depends upon both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Whereas most mammalian neurones have a limited capacity for regeneration, regulated, in part, by physical and chemical cues in the brain microenvironment (Bray et al. 1987; Caroni and Schwab, 1988, 1989), invertebrates, and in particular insects, exhibit a far greater capacity for repair of central neurones and circuits (Treherne et al. 1988). Studies of the cues that regulate the regenerative process are made easier by the use of individual, identified neurones, cultured under controlled conditions. Invertebrates are particularly useful in this regard; neurones from mature nervous systems of both annelids and molluscs have been grown successfully in culture and their growth can be influenced by changes in the culture conditions (Acklin and Nicholls, 1990; Dagan and Levitan, 1981; Ready and Nicholls, 1979; Syed et al. 1990). Routine and long-term culture of identified neurones from the insect central nervous system (CNS) has proved more elusive, preventing the use of neurones from these well-studied systems. Recently, however, cultures of cockroach (Howes et al. 1991), locust (Kirchoff and Bicker, 1992) and moth (Hayashi and Levine, 1992) adult neurones have been described.
Consequences of Catecholamine Release on Ventilation and Blood Oxygen Transport During Hypoxia and Hypercapnia in an Elasmobranch (Squalus Acanthias) and a Teleost (Oncorhynchus Mykiss)
Authors: Perry Steve F. , Gilmour Kathleen M.
Published: April 2021

The marine dogfish (Squalus acanthias) and the seawater-adapted rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were exposed to acute environmental hypercapnia or hypoxia to evaluate (i) the dynamics of catecholamine release into the circulation and (ii) the impact of catecholamine release on gill ventilation and blood oxygen transport. This comparison was undertaken to test the hypothesis that the pattern and consequences of catecholamine release differ in the two species according to the presence or absence of a Root effect and a red blood cell (rbc) β-adrenergic response.

Hypercapnia and hypoxia elicited marked increases in plasma catecholamine levels in the trout but not in the dogfish. In the trout, catecholamine release occurred abruptly during hypoxia when arterial decreased below 2.7 kPa. In the dogfish, plasma catecholamine levels remained stable during hypoxia even when fell below 2.0 kPa.

Trout and dogfish displayed pronounced hyperventilatory responses during both hypercapnia and hypoxia. In trout, the hyperventilatory response consisted of an increase in ventilation amplitude (estimated by opercular cavity pressure changes) with no change in ventilation frequency (fV), whereas in the dogfish, both amplitude (estimated by spiracular cavity pressure changes) and fV increased significantly. The use of an extracorporeal circulation and frequent blood sampling demonstrated that plasma catecholamine levels and ventilation amplitude were not correlated during hypoxia in either species.

During hypercapnia in trout, the bolus injection of a catecholamine cocktail (final nominal circulating levels 200 nmol l−1 adrenaline, 50 nmol l−1 noradrenaline) caused a rapid (within 2 min) 33 % reduction in ventilation amplitude that persisted for 3 min; fV was unaffected. This hypoventilatory response occurred concurrently with activation of rbc Na+/H+ exchange and an increase in arterial blood O2 content and O2 specifically bound to haemoglobin (O2/Hb). During hypoxia in trout, a similar injection of catecholamines activated rbc Na+/H+ exchange and increased O2/Hb yet was without effect on ventilation amplitude or fV. In dogfish during hypercapnia or hypoxia, injection of a catecholamine cocktail (final nominal circulating levels 125 nmol l−1 adrenaline, 125 nmol l−1 noradrenaline) caused slight but significant reductions in fV (3–4 min−1) without affecting ventilation amplitude. Catecholamine injections did not affect blood oxygen transport in dogfish.

The results demonstrate significant differences in the nature of catecholamine release in dogfish and trout that may reflect, in part, the absence of a Root effect and rbc adrenergic Na+/H+ exchange in the elasmobranch. The present data do not support the hypothesis that circulating catecholamines play a major role in controlling breathing during hypoxia or hypercapnia.
In vivo oocyte hydration in Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus); proteolytic liberation of free amino acids, and ion transport, are driving forces for osmotic water influx
Authors: Finn Roderick Nigel , Østby Gunn C. , Norberg Birgitta , Fyhn Hans Jørgen
Published: April 2021

The in vivo swelling and hydration of maturing oocytes of Atlantic halibut Hippoglossus hippoglossus were studied in order to characterise the osmotic mechanism underlying oocyte hydration in oviparous marine teleosts that spawn pelagic eggs. Sequential biopsies from two females, spanning four hydration cycles, were examined by osmometry, solute analysis and electrophoresis of dissected hydrating oocytes and ovulated eggs. The hydration cycle of the biopsied halibuts lasted 33–54 h. The majority of ovarian oocytes existed in a pre-hydrated condition (individual wet mass approx. 3.7 mg, diameter approx. 1.87 mm, 63 % H2O) with easily visible, non-coalesced, yolk platelets. Group-synchronous batches of the pre-hydrated oocytes increased in individual wet mass, diameter and water content to reach the ovulated egg stage of approximately 15 mg, 3.0 mm and 90 % H2O, respectively. The yolk osmolality of the hydrating oocytes was transiently hyperosmotic to the ovarian fluid (range 305–350 mOsmol l–1) with a peak osmolality of about 450 mOsmol l–1 in oocytes of 6–8 mg individual wet mass. The transient hyperosmolality was well accounted for by the increase in oocyte content of free amino acids (FAAs; approx. 2300 nmol oocyte–1), K+ (approx. 750 nmol oocyte–1), Cl– (approx. 900 nmol oocyte–1), total ammonium (approx. 300 nmol oocyte–1) and inorganic phosphate (Pi; approx. 200 nmol oocyte–1) when relating to the increase in cellular water. The oocyte content of Na+ did not increase during the hydration phase. Extensive proteolysis of yolk proteins, in particular a 110 kDa protein, correlated with the increase in the FAA pool, although the latter increased by approx. 20 % more than could be accounted for by the decrease in the oocyte protein content. Both indispensable and dispensable amino acids increased in the FAA pool, and particularly serine, alanine, leucine, lysine, glutamine and glutamate. Taurine content remained stable at approx. 70 nmol oocyte–1 during oocyte hydration. The results show that final hydration of Atlantic halibut oocytes is caused by an osmotic water uptake in which FAAs, derived mainly from the hydrolysis of a 110 kDa yolk protein, contribute approximately 50 % of the yolk osmolality and ions (Cl–, K+, Pi, NH4+) make up the balance.
Effect of menstrual cycle phase on exercise performance of high-altitude native women at 3600 m
Authors: Brutsaert Tom D. , Spielvogel Hilde , Caceres Esperanza , Araoz Mauricio , Chatterton Robert T. , Vitzthum Virginia J.
Published: April 2021

At sea level normally menstruating women show increased ventilation (V̇e) and hemodynamic changes due to increased progesterone (P) and estrogen (E2) levels during the mid-luteal (L) compared to the mid-follicular (F) phase of the ovarian cycle. Such changes may affect maximal exercise performance. This repeated-measures, randomized study, conducted at 3600 m, tests the hypothesis that a P-mediated increase in V̇e increases maximal oxygen consumption (V̇O2max) during the L phase relative to the F phase in Bolivian women, either born and raised at high altitude (HA), or resident at HA since early childhood. Subjects (N=30) enrolled in the study were aged 27.7±0.7 years (mean ± s.e.m.) and non-pregnant, non-lactating, relatively sedentary residents of La Paz, Bolivia, who were not using hormonal contraceptives. Mean salivary P levels at the time of the exercise tests were 63.3 pg ml–1 and 22.9 pg ml–1 for the L and F phases, respectively. Subset analyses of submaximal (N=23) and maximal (N=13) exercise responses were conducted only with women showing increased P levels from F to L and, in the latter case, with those also achieving true V̇O2max. Submaximal exercise V̇e and ventilatory equivalents were higher in the L phase (P<0.001). P levels were significantly correlated to the submaximal exercise V̇e (r=0.487, P=0.006). Maximal work output (W) was higher (approximately 5 %) during the L phase (P=0.044), but V̇O2max (l min–1) was unchanged (P=0.063). Post-hoc analyses revealed no significant relationship between changes in P levels and changes in V̇O2max from F to L (P=0.072). In sum, the menstrual cycle phase has relatively modest effects on ventilation, but no effect on V̇O2max of HA native women.
Nitrogen Excretion in Ascidiacea
Authors: Goodbody Ivan
Published: April 2021

Ascidians have hitherto been regarded as eliminating their nitrogen in an insoluble form and storing the products either in special vesicles or in blood cells termed nephrocytes. Three species of ascidian have been studied: Ciona intestinalis, Ascidiella aspersa and Molgula manhattensis. Evidence is brought forward to show that these ascidians excrete soluble nitrogen chiefly in the form of ammonia. The quantities of soluble non-protein nitrogen excreted are slightly higher than is found in the filter-feeding molluscs; this is probably due in part to an increased metabolic rate subsequent to transport and handling. Ammonia may form as much as 95% of the total non-protein nitrogen excreted. The methods employed are subject to an error up to 10%.
Escape From Recurring Tactile Stimulation inBranchiomma Vesiculosum
Authors: Krasne Franklin B.
Published: April 2021

The modification of behaviour by experience occurs throughout the Animal Kingdom. This is one of the fundamental facts of animal behaviour and has been the central preoccupation of a vast literature on animal learning, but it cannot be said that there is more than the slightest knowledge of the physiological changes which occur in animals during even the simplest learning process.
The Activity of Single Motor Fibres in Arthropods
Authors: Knights Ann
Published: April 2021

Responses to mechanical and electrical stimulation have been investigated in single motor fibres dissected in the caudal nerves of the Australian yabbie Cherax destructor. These are compared with the responses of insect motor neurones. A large proportion of fibres possessed a background discharge which could be accelerated but rarely inhibited on stimulation. Pre-synaptic stimulation re-set the spontaneous rhythm of many of these units. Efferent responses were dependent both on the route and intensity of afferent stimulation varying in type, delay and regularity, and resembled those of crayfish interneurones. Particular emphasis on the effects of the frequency of stimulation demonstrated an enhanced responsiveness of some yabbie units dependent on repetition rate. This was found in relatively few fibres and does not appear as important as in the insect.
The Acid-Base Status of the Blood of the Developing Chick Embryo
Authors: Dawes C. , Simkiss K.
Published: April 2021

The pH, carbon dioxide tension, bicarbonate and base excess levels of chick embryos have been measured during the period of 11 days of incubation until the 2nd day post hatching. The carbon dioxide tension rises continuously from a value of about 20 mm. Hg on day 11 to a maximum of almost 60 mm. Hg on day 19. The bicarbonate content rises rapidly from the 12th day (16 m-equiv./l.) until the 16th day (33 m-equiv./l.). The pH falls to minimum values on the 13–14th day and the 19th day. These variations are discussed in relation to the physiology of the developing embryo and its acid-base metabolism.
Antennal Cleaning, Arousal and Visual Interneurone Responsiveness in a Locust
Authors: Rowell C. H. Fraser
Published: April 2021

In unrestrained locusts, in which responsiveness of the descending contralateral movement detector (DCMD) unit fluctuates after the initial habituation, spontaneous or induced antennal cleaning has a very high probability of coinciding with low DCMD responsiveness. First visual stimuli which coincide with cleaning still evoke an undiminished DCMD response, which in turn does not interrupt cleaning; the two are not mutually inhibitory. Their inverse probability of occurrence must derive from a common factors) with reciprocal effects. Lesions to the CNS which decrease sensory input increase the probability of grooming reflexes, similar to antennal cleaning, and decrease the probability of high DCMD responsiveness. The main factor affecting DCMD responsiveness is known to be neural, driven (probably directly) by a variety of sensory inputs. The responsible system thus appears to affect also the otherwise unrelated activity of antennal cleaning. These observations are consistent with the hypothesis of a general arousal system in the insect CNS, deriving from sensory input and influencing several aspects of nervous function and behaviour. Passive movement of the head brings about recovery of DCMD response, due the recruitment of a new peripheral visual pathway. Movement of the head during antennal cleaning does not do this. Proprioceptive reafference therefore plays no role. As the DCMD is not inhibited during cleaning (2), the CNS therefore seems to compensate for the shift on the retina of a familiar stimulus; as first visual responses are high during cleaning, this mechanism does not operate for unfamiliar stimuli. The implications of this are discussed, and it is suggested that the site-specific habituation properties of the afferent pathways to the DCMD could provide an appropriate ‘memory’ for this integration.
Eye movements in Daphnia pulex (De Geer)
Authors: Frost B.J.
Published: April 2021

The various types of eye movement exhibited by the cyclopean eye of Daphnia pulex were studied using high speed motion photography. This rudimentary eye, which consists of only 22 ommatidia, can move through approximately 150° in the sagittal plane and 6o° in the horizontal plane. Four classes of eye movement were found: (1) a high speed tremor at 16 Hz with an amplitude of 3–4°, which resembles physiological nystagmus, (2) a slow rhythmic scanning movement at 4 Hz, and 5–6° amplitude, (3) large fast eye movements similar to saccadic eye movements and (4) optokinetic nystagmus produced by moving striped patterns. Where the fast tremor occurred concurrently with the slow rhythmic scan, a Fourier analysis revealed that the former was the fourth harmonic of the latter.
Homing-Pigeon Vanishing Bearings at Magnetic Anomalies are Not Altered by Bar Magnets
Authors: Walcott Charles
Published: April 2021

Keeton (1971, 1972) has shown that pigeons released under overcast skies are often disoriented by bar magnets. When the sun is visible, magnets deflect the average vanishing bearing slightly to the left. Essentially similar results can be obtained with paired coils around the pigeon’s head - a dramatic effect under overcast (Walcott & Green, 1974; Visalberghi & Alieva, 1979) and a small deflexion under sun (Walcott, 1977). Releasing pigeons at magnetic anomalies where the earth’s magnetic field is distorted has a substantial effect even under sunny conditions (Grave, 1965 ; Talkington, 1967; Frei & Wagner, 1976; Wagner, 1976; Walcott, 1978). Since the scatter of pigeon vanishing bearings is significantly correlated with the strength of the anomaly (Walcott, 1978), it seems probable that the distortion of the earth’s magnetic field is causing the effect and not some secondary characteristic of the release site.
Neuromuscular Facilitation in Crayfish: Dependence On Potassium and Strophanthidin
Authors: Ortiz C. Leo , Orkand R. K.
Published: April 2021

Long-term facilitation (LTF) and short-term facilitation (STF) at excitatory neuromuscular junctions were studied under conditions of varying [K+]0 and with the addition of strophanthidin. The magnitude of LTF varied inversely with [K+]0, while STF was unaffected. Strophanthidin concentrations greater than 10−5 M greatly increased LTF, but not STF. Both LTF and STF were unaffected by large decreases in excitatory junctional potential amplitude produced by the addition of GABA or Mn+2. The results support the hypothesis that LTF is a consequence of Na+ accumulation in presynaptic terminals and behaves independently of STF.
Papaverine-Induced Inhibition of Electrical and Mechanical Activity and Calcium Movements of Rat Ileal Smooth Muscle
Authors: Huddart H. , Saad K. H. M.
Published: April 2021

Papaverine, in the concentration range 50–150 µM, inhibited rhythmic spontaneous contraction and caused relaxation of KCl-induced contractures of rat ileal smooth muscle. Spontaneous slow waves and spikes declined at low papaverine concentrations. The normal 45Ca uptake of the ileum was reduced by papaverine. Although papaverine caused only a small inhibition of normal 45Ca efflux from the ileum, it strongly inhibited the KCl-induced stimulation of 45Ca efflux. Calcium uptake by the isolated ileal smooth-muscle microsomal fraction was slightly increased by papaverine, but mitochondrial calcium uptake was unaffected. Ileal smooth muscle incubated in calcium-free media showed little response to either the reintroduction of calcium or KC1 in the presence of papaverine. It is suggested that the inhibitory actions of papaverine on ileal smooth muscle result from a blockade of the calcium influx which triggers the excitation-contraction coupling sequence.
Stereoselective Enhancement of VCD Signals for Intercalation Compounds of Sodium Montmorillonite and Chiral Metal Complexes
Authors: Sato Hisako , Takimoto Kazuyoshi , Yoshida Jun , Yamagishi Akihiko
Published: April 2021

Vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectra were recorded for the intercalation compounds of sodium montmorillonite co-adsorbing two kinds of metal complexes, Δ- (or Λ-)[Ru(phen)3]2+ and Λ- (or Δ-)[Ni(phen)3]2+. The complexes were chosen so as to form a pseudo racemate. Notably some of the VCD signals were enhanced in comparison to the samples adsorbing each complex separately. The results were rationalized in terms of the delocalization of vibrational motions over a tightly bound molecular pair in a coherent way. The model of racemic adsorption of [M(II)(phen)3]2+ (M(II) = a divalent metal ion) in the interlayer space of a clay mineral was proposed.
Seed train process intensification strategy offers potential for rapid, cost-effective scale-up of biosimilars manufacturing
Authors: Malla Rajib , Shah Dhaval , Gajendragadkar Chinmay , Vamanan Vijayalakshmi , Singh Deepak , Gupta Suraj , Vengovan Deepak , Trivedi Ravi , Weichert Henry , Carpio Melisa , Chandran Krishna
Published: April 2021

A perfusion approach at N-1, where cells stay in the exponential growth phase throughout the entire culture duration, is becoming more common as a strategy for process intensification. This is because the higher cell densities it generates allows manufacturers to skip seed stages and reduce process transfer time through multiple bioreactor sizes, thus providing more cost-effective biologics production in smaller facilities. However, this N-1 perfusion approach requires optimization. In this article, we describe the development and proof-of-concept studies with single-use rocking motion perfusion bioreactors in which we have achieved a ten-fold increase in viable cell count in N-1 seed stage, compared to the fed-batch control process, in just 6–8 days. We also mention in detail how we inoculated a 50 L bioreactor production run using this intensified seed train and show comparable growth kinetics and yield with a control process, also at 50 L scale. Using this intensification approach in the future will help our manufacturing facility, the Biopharma Division of Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd., reach 4000 L production-scale volumes with fewer process transfer steps, and without changing the feeding strategy or production bioreactors of our biologics’ portfolio.
Evaluation of Acromegaly patients with sleep disturbance related symptoms
Authors: Çelik Deniz , Şahin Duyar Sezgi , Aksu Funda , Fırat Selma , Çiftçi Bülent
Published: April 2021

Background and Objectives: It is known that the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is increased in acromegaly. Craniofacial anomalies, macroglossia, and thickening of the laryngeal wall caused by the increase in soft tissue in these patients lead to OSA. Also, the increase in growth hormone can trigger central apnea by causing a decrease in respiratory drive. Determining the polysomnographic characteristics of acromegaly patients is important to reveal the effect of these mechanisms.

Methods: The demographic and polysomnographic characteristics of 33 acromegaly patients who underwent polysomnography (PSG) with suspicion of sleep disorders between 2011 and 2018 in the sleep laboratory of our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. One of the patients was excluded from the analysis because PSG was performed in the postoperative period. The remaining 32 patients with active acromegaly were grouped according to their gender and the presence of OSA and compared with statistical methods in terms of polysomnographic and clinical features.

Results: OSA (AHI>5) was detected in 78.1% of 32 active acromegaly patients (18 females, 14 males) who underwent PSG with suspicion of sleep-disordered breathing. Moderate-severe OSA (62.5%) was found in most patients, and there was no difference between the sexes in terms of OSA detection rate and OSA severity. Respiratory events appear to be predominantly obstructive hypopneas. Also, the polysomnographic features of female and male acromegaly patients with OSA were found to be similar. It is seen that the OSA group is similar to the group with simple snoring in terms of body mass index (BMI), but is statistically significantly older (p=0,007). A positive correlation was found between age and AHI in pairwise correlation analysis (r:0,426 p:0,015, respectively).

Conclusion: Considering that the prevalence of OSA in the population is approximately 5%, our results show that the risk of OSA in acromegaly increases, and obstructive pathways are effective in this increase. The probability of OSA occurrence and polysomnographic features between the genders are similar. Although the median BMI of the patients with and without OSA was similar, the median age was higher in the group with OSA, middle-aged acromegaly patients should be evaluated in terms of OSA even if there is no obvious obesity.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.4229

How to cite this:Celik D, Duyar SS, Aksu F, Firat S, Ciftci B. Evaluation of Acromegaly patients with sleep disturbance related symptoms. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(4):1161-1165. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.4229

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) Opportunities in Health Education (HE) in a mandatory social isolation context
Authors: Dolores-Maldonado Gandy , Cañari-Casaño Jorge L. , Montero-Romainville Rosalia , Malaga German
Published: April 2021

Background: Routine care for prevention and health promotion has reduced significantly due to the Covid-19 pandemic and mandatory social isolation measures. In this context, it is necessary to identify and describe Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) that provide opportunities for health education, promotion, and prevention aimed at the general population. The study is a systematic review of MOOCs on health education, health promotion, and prevention for the general population in a pandemic context.

Methods: We developed a search for MOOC courses aimed at the general population on health education, health promotion, and prevention in different available MOOC platforms. We executed a descriptive analysis of the main characteristics of the selected MOOCs.

Results: There were 117 MOOCs chosen on health education, promotion, and prevention for the general population. Coursera (40.3%) was the platform that offered the highest quantity of MOOCs; more than half of the MOOCs were in English (52.9%). The median (interquartile range) duration of the selected MOOCs was 11 (6–15) hours. The predominant themes were "Health promotion" (43%) and "Food and nutrition" (31%), and the origin was mainly from Europe (37.8%).

Conclusions: MOOC offerings in health education are diverse, predominantly in English, of European origin, and in health promotion issues. This study opens an opportunity to multiply initiatives in different territories, considering other languages and topics more akin to each territorial reality, allowing it to be a more equitable learning opportunity in times of pandemic and compulsory social isolation.
Comparing Non-GAAP EPS in Earnings Announcements and Proxy Statements
Authors: Black Dirk E. , Black Ervin L. , Christensen Theodore E. , Gee Kurt H.
Published: April 2021

We compare non-GAAP earnings per share (EPS) in firms’ annual earnings announcements and proxy statements using hand-collected data from U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings. We find that proxies for capital market incentives (contracting incentives) are more highly associated with firms’ disclosure of non-GAAP EPS in annual earnings announcements (proxy statements). However, we find systematic differences in the properties of firms’ non-GAAP earnings and exclusions depending on whether they disclose non-GAAP EPS in both the earnings announcement and the proxy statement. When firms disclose non-GAAP EPS in both documents, we find that non-GAAP EPS is more useful for assessing firm value. Specifically, these firms are more likely to: (1) exclude nonrecurring items, (2) exclude less persistent earnings components, and (3) provide less aggressive non-GAAP EPS. Our results suggest that non-GAAP EPS is higher in quality for investors when disclosed in both the annual earnings announcement and the proxy statement. We provide some of the first large-sample evidence consistent with the use of non-GAAP EPS metrics in both financial reporting and compensation contracting.

This paper was accepted by Brian Bushee, accounting.
Emergency cardiac pharmacology for nurses
Authors: Summerfield Natasha , Pace Charlotte
Published: April 2021

Cardiac emergencies are a relatively common occurrence in emergency practice, and cardiac drugs are essential in the management of these patients. Knowledge and understanding of the pharmacology of these drugs is important for the veterinary nurse, so that they can support the veterinary surgeon and give the best care to their patient, by being prepared and organised. Each medication needs to be carefully considered by the veterinary surgeon before use and each patient assessed accordingly. These medications have the potential to do great good, but as with most drugs, can cause harm. This article will discuss some of the more commonly used cardiac drugs in the emergency room.
Optical design and performance of a trifocal sinusoidal diffractive intraocular lens
Authors: Vega Fidel , Valentino Maite , Rigato Franco , Millán María S.
Published: April 2021

Two theoretical sinusoidal diffractive profile models to build up a trifocal intraocular lens (IOL) are analysed. Topographic features of the diffractive zones such as their shape, step height and radii, as well as the energy efficiency (EE) of the foci, depends on the particular model, and are compared to the ones experimentally measured in a trifocal lens that claims to be designed with a generic sinusoidal diffractive profile: the Acriva Trinova IOL (VSY Biotechnology, The Netherlands). The topography of the IOL is measured by confocal microscopy. The EE is experimentally obtained through-focus with the IOL placed in a model eye. The experimental results match very accurately with one of the theoretical models, the optimum triplicator, once that a spatial shift in the sinusoidal profile is introduced in the model.
Optical, photophysical, and electrooptical studies on slot-die polyfluorene-based flexible OLED devices
Authors: Gioti M.
Published: April 2021

Polymer F8:F8BT blend systems were created by mixing Poly(9,9-di-n-octylfluorenyl-2,7-diyl) (F8) and poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene-alt-benzothiadiazole) (F8BT) with 19:1, 1:1 and 1:19 ratios, then grown by R2R slot-die coating technique, for use as emitting layers (EML) in organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). The multi-layer structure of the OLEDs consisted of a flexible poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate, an indium tin oxide (ITO) film as the anode, a poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) film as the hole transport layer, also grown by slot-die, the EML and the evaporated Ca/Ag bilayer as the electron transport layer and cathode. The synergy of spectroscopic ellipsometry, photoluminescence, and electroluminescence characterization techniques provided the overall investigation and evaluation of the optical, photophysical, electrooptical, and operational properties of films and devices. The dielectric function and the absorption coefficient of the blends were dominated by electronic transitions that were assigned to respective electronic transitions in F8 and F8BT identified by the study of single component F8 and F8BT layers grown by the spin coating technique as control films and devices. This work aims to give insight into the interrelation between the optical and electronic properties with the nanostructural, photo- and electro-luminescence characteristics of the slot-die F8:F8BT OLED devices. Based on these, the justification of the main operational characteristics and the performance of the OLEDs is achieved.
Gradual transmittance controllable device via ion intercalation for spatial light modulators
Authors: Song Yubin , Kim Myungjun , Han Geonhui , Seo Jongseon , Seo Young-ho , Lee Daeseok
Published: April 2021

To realize a hologram that is an effective method for implementing three-dimensional display, a novel spatial light modulator (SLM) that can generate the hologram by light interference and diffraction was developed based on transmittance changes. For a high-resolution hologram, pixel size of the SLM needs to be scaled down to visible light wavelength (380∼780 nm). However, conventional liquid crystal or micro-mirror-based SLM has a limitation in scaling down; few micrometers sized unit parts are required based on its operation mechanism. Herein, an ion intercalation-based SLM utilizing nano-scale ions as the unit part was investigated. Consequently, basic operations of the SLM (light interference and diffraction) are achieved based on the gradual transmittance changes, which demonstrates the feasibility of ion intercalation-based SLM.
Cholesteric layers with tangential-conical surface anchoring for an electrically controlled polarization rotator
Authors: Sutormin V. S. , Krakhalev M. N. , Timofeev I. V. , Bikbaev R. G. , Prishchepa O. O. , Zyryanov V. YA.
Published: April 2021

The voltage dependences of polarization characteristics of light passed through the cholesteric layers with tangential-conical boundary conditions have been investigated. It has been shown that such layers allow turning the polarization azimuth more than

70
∘

because of the unique untwisting effect of the cholesteric helix, due to free azimuthal rotation of the director on the substrate with conical anchoring. Optical cells under study have some advantages (low control voltage, smooth variation of polarization azimuth, simplicity of design) and can be used as an electrically controlled polarization rotator of white light.
Manufacture and up-conversion luminescence of Er/Yb co-doped silica glass microstructure optical fiber based on the laser sintering technique
Authors: Chen Yun , Zhao Nan , Liu Jiantao , Li Jiaming , Xiao Dongrui , Zhao Fang , Zhou Guiyao , Ping Shum Perry , Shao Liyang
Published: April 2021

In this study, the laser sintering technique combined with the stack-capillary-draw method was used to manufacture Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped silica glass microstructure optical fiber for up-conversion (UC) luminescence for the first time. The obtained fiber, whose structure can be maintained well, shows no obvious element diffusion during the fiber-drawing process. The core glass is amorphous without any crystallization, and Er and Yb elements are uniformly distributed throughout the fiber core. Intense upconverted green and red emissions corresponding to (2H11/2, 4S3/2) → 4I15/2 and 4F9/2 → 4I15/2 transitions, respectively, together with an emission corresponding to 2H11/2 → 4I13/2 transition were observed upon the excitation of a 976-nm laser. The intensity of green and red UC luminescence shows a linear dependence on the excitation power which demonstrates that a two-photon absorption process is responsible for the UC process. The results demonstrated the laser sintering technique provides an alternative method to manufacture Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped fiber, which would promote the development of UC luminescent materials.
Cognición distribuida: entre lo individual y lo social
Authors: Consiglio Francesco , Martínez Manrique Fernando
Published: April 2021

Ronald Giere utilizó el concepto de cognición distribuida como herramienta de análisis de la investigación científica. En este artículo comenzamos por explicar el origen de la noción en los ejemplos de la navegación y del procesamiento distribuido en paralelo, así como la aplicación que Giere hace al caso de la ciencia. Seguidamente, examinamos las ventajas explicativas de la cognición distribuida dentro de su perspectivismo, al permitir abordar la ciencia como proceso y erosionar la línea entre lo cognitivo y lo social, así como los límites que Giere establece para su aplicación. A continuación ubicamos la posición de Giere en relación a los debates sobre la mente extendida y las sucesivas olas del mismo, centradas bien en el principio de paridad, bien en el de complementariedad, bien en el carácter social y colectivo de lo cognitivo. Al hacerlo mostramos que algunas críticas que se le han hecho no interpretan bien su posición. Por último, reevaluamos la reticencia de Giere a extender a los sistemas distribuidos ciertas propiedades mentales, presentando dos intentos recientes de establecer las condiciones en que esta extensión es razonable.
La reflexión crítica sobre los neuromitos en la educación
Authors: Pallarés-Domínguez Daniel
Published: April 2021

El progreso de la neuroeducación en los últimos años ha tenido incidencia en la comprensión actual de la educación. Como ciencia interdisciplinar, la neuroeducación ha aportado grandes ventajas sobre la descripción de los correlatos neurales en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje, así como en la detección de los neuromitos. Sin embargo, sus aportaciones no están carentes de una revisión crítica desde la perspectiva filosófica que vaya más allá del cuestionamiento puramente neurocientífico sobre la validez de las evidencias. El objetivo de este artículo es señalar la necesaria aceptación crítica de los resultados de la neuroeducación para evitar un colonialismo neurocientífico como un reto al que la teoría de la educación debe enfrentarse.

Para ello, en primer lugar se justificará la introducción de la neuroeducación en el panorama educativo actual. En segundo lugar, se conceptualizará brevemente la neuroeducación y los neuromitos para poder después, a través de una metodología argumentativa y crítica, incidir en los factores de la aceptación de sus descubrimientos. En tercer lugar, para ejemplificar la aceptación crítica de estos, se analizarán las Inteligencias Múltiples de H. Gardner y su posible consideración como neuromito. Este análisis permitirá observar como no siempre las evidencias neurocientíficas, o falta de estas, son suficientes para considerar una teoría educativa peyorativamente como un neuromito. La discusión radica en la consideración de una falta de evidencia científica desde el diálogo interdisciplinar de la neuroeducación. A pesar del abierto debate sobre su consideración neurocientífica y sobre su utilidad a nivel pedagógico, las Inteligencias Múltiples  están en sintonía con las consideraciones de las leyes educativas en los últimos años, las cuales han incidido de manera significativa en las competencias de aprendizaje, y en las metodologías y evaluaciones que comprendan al ser humano desde un punto de vista holístico, abriendo así la puerta al diálogo con otras ciencias.
A Rapid Growth of Verrucous Carcinoma After Biopsy: Treatment and Reconstruction
Authors: Budhipramono Angelica Gracia , Pribadi Sweety
Published: April 2021

Summary: An increasing amount of evidence from clinical and experimental studies suggests that biopsies, thought to assist with definitive diagnoses, may aggravate tumor progression. We present a case of fast-growing giant verrucous squamous cell carcinoma, observed two weeks following biopsy. A 38-year-old man presented with a nose tumor that recurred two weeks after a biopsy and debridement to remove a lesion that was thought to be an abscess. Wide excision was performed on the tumor, frozen sectioned; the defect was reconstructed with a two-step forehead flap. The rapid tumor growth observed in this case raises the question of whether biopsies or other interventions may accelerate the growth of malignant tumors. Verrucous squamous cell carcinoma is slow-growing with a predilection for oral and nasal mucosa and rarely metastasizes. The patient presented here is an unusual case, with a tumor rapidly growing within fifteen days. A two-staged paramedian forehead flap is the workhorse of nasal reconstruction.
Even though the benefit of doing biopsies overall outweighs the potential side effects, further research is required to determine whether biopsies affect the progression of the tumor. Early differential diagnosis is also crucial, as it may affect the patient's plan of treatment and prognosis. Giant tumors on the facial area may cause a functional and cosmetic disturbance. A two-step forehead flap produces a satisfactory cosmetic appearance for the patient one-year post-procedure.
La ville vue d’en bas. Travail et production de l’espace populaire - Collectif Rosa Bonheur, 2019
Authors: Pizarro Erazo Sebastián
Published: April 2021

Recensé : Collectif Rosa Bonheur, La ville vue d’en bas. Travail et production de l’espace populaire, Paris, Éditions Amsterdam, 2019, 227 p.
RANCANG BANGUN SISTEM PEMANTAU KUALITAS UDARA MENGGUNAKAN ARDUINO DAN LORA BERBASIS JARINGAN SENSOR NIRKABEL
Authors: Munabbih Muhammad Ihaab , Widianto Eko Didik , Windarto Yudi Eko , Indrasto Erwan Yudi
Published: April 2021

Pencemaran udara merupakan permasalahan lingkungan yang sering terjadi belakangan ini, terutama pada kota-kota besar yang dipenuhi dengan pabrik dan kendaraan bermesin. Hal tersebut dapat berdampak buruk bagi kesehatan masyarakat sehingga pencemaran udara harus dicegah dan dikurangi, salah satunya dengan melakukan pemantauan kualtias udara pada suatu tempat. Rancang bangun sistem pemantau kualitas udara berbasis jaringan sensor nirkabel ini adalah sistem yang dibuat untuk melakukan pemantauan kualitas udara jarak jauh yang akan ditampilkan pada aplikasi web dalam bentuk nilai ISPU. Metodologi yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini terdapat 4 tahap yaitu identifikasi kebutuhan sistem, perancangan sistem, implementasi sistem, pengujian dan analisis sistem. Implementasi sistem menggunakan Arduino Uno sebagai pusat kendali sistem. Sistem ini juga menggunakan sensor TGS 2600 untuk mengukur kadar CO, TGS 2201 untuk mengukur kadar NO₂, GP2Y1010AU0F untuk mengukur kepadatan partikel debu, SHT11 untuk mengukur suhu dan kelembapan, serta LoRa sebagai metode komunikasi perangkat keras dengan aplikasi web Sistem ini memudahkan pengguna untuk mengetahui apabila terjadi peningkatan polusi udara pada suatu tempat. Dari hasil pengujian, sistem ini mampu melakukan pembacaan sensor sesuai dengan datasheet dan mampu mengirimkan data menuju aplikasi web menggunakan komunikasi LoRa hingga jarak 300 meter dan packet loss ratio sebesar 0%