bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vaseline treatment combined with a natural dye extract to enhance lip print contrast images
Authors: Mebuathong Titichaya , Kangsanan Wongsakorn , Chingthongkham Phawadol , Chomean Sirinart , Suppajariyawat Praew , Kaset Chollanot
Published: February 2021

Fingerprinting and DNA comparisons are the most commonly used methods in criminal investigations. However, lip prints can also be used as a supplementary tool because of the uniqueness of morphological patterns. A lip print not only can be used for personal screening by its pattern, it also carries genetic information that enables personal identification. Nowadays, there are various kinds of plants that are used for biological and histological staining due to an increasing market value associated with their application and sustainability. This study assessed the ability of natural dye extract to develop latent lip print contrast images and to preserve DNA for short tandem repeat analysis. Results revealed that roselle extract showed potential for the development of vaseline‐treated lip print contrast images on bond paper. Moreover, when roselle extract‐stained paper was compared with unstained paper, short tandem repeat profiles were not affected. Therefore, such dyes could be utilised for the development of latent lip print contrast images and their application could be extensively used to establish a personal identification database for reference in criminal investigations.
Dependency of flow‐mediated vasodilatation from basal nitric oxide activity
Authors: Kannenkeril Dennis , Bosch Agnes , Kolwelter Julie , Jung Susanne , Striepe Kristina , Ott Christian , Delles Christian , Schmieder Roland E.
Published: February 2021

Background

Flow‐mediated vasodilatation (FMD) has become one of the most widely assessed parameters to analyse endothelial and vascular function in cardiovascular medicine. The degree of contribution of nitric oxide (NO) to FMD is inconclusive and varies widely depending on the device used. In this study, we used a semi‐automatic ultrasound device to analyse to what extent basal NO activity contributes to FMD of the brachial artery.

Methods

FMD was assessed with the UNEX EF device in a cross‐over single blinded randomized study at baseline and then during infusion of either a NO‐synthase‐inhibitor (NG‐monomethyl‐L‐arginine (L‐NMMA)) or saline. The analysis was repeated after 1 week with the alternative infusion of L‐NMMA or saline. All measurements were analysed both automatically and by a technician manually.

Results

In total, 25 healthy men subjects completed the study. Diastolic blood pressure and heart rate significantly changed during infusion of L‐NMMA. Infusion of L‐NMMA reduced FMD significantly (−37%, p = 0.002). Saline solution had no effect on FMD (+14%, p = 0.392). Change in FMD was significantly different between the groups (ΔFMDL‐NMMA vs. ΔFMDsaline, p = 0.032). There was a statistically significant correlation between automatically analysed results and those obtained by an experienced technician (FMDsaline: r = 0.822, p < 0.001; FMDL‐NMMA: r = 0.645, p = 0.007).

Conclusion

The influence of NO on FMD is approximately 40% if assessed using the UNEX EF. Prior to use FMD as a marker of endothelial dysfunction, we should explore different methods including various duration of forearm ischaemia to increase NO dependency of FMD.
Geographical, temporal and taxonomic biases in insect GBIF data on biodiversity and extinction
Authors: Rocha‐Ortega Maya , Rodriguez Pilar , Córdoba‐Aguilar Alex
Published: February 2021

1. Analysis of geographic patterns of extinction must be accompanied by knowledge of biodiversity patterns. Such analysis is not yet available in insects given three shortfalls. First, knowledge of insect species' distribution is poor. Second, insect inventories have taxonomic, geographical, temporal and habitat biases. Third, the accelerated loss of insect species likely surpasses the rate at which the authors are discovering new species.

2. The authors have examined the state of the art of knowledge of the geographical distribution of insect extinction risk and diversity, as well as their relation with human footprint.

3. Insect records are highly scattered. Geographically, inventories are incomplete worldwide, except for some areas in Europe. Although the description of new insect species has increased in the last 40 years, this is biased towards lepidopterans and coleopterans. Comparably, IUCN‐listed species has also increased in the last 40 years, yet with biases towards odonates and lepidopterans. Likewise, aquatic species have been more intensively sampled and considered by the IUCN than terrestrial species. Of high priority are some pristine areas but with few insect records, whereas the east coast of the United States, Europe and Japan raise concerns given that the human footprint exceeded the species richness of insects registered.
Ventral tegmental area GABA, glutamate, and glutamate‐GABA neurons are heterogeneous in their electrophysiological and pharmacological properties
Authors: Miranda‐Barrientos Jorge , Chambers Ian , Mongia Smriti , Liu Bing , Wang Hui‐Ling , Mateo‐Semidey Gabriel E. , Margolis Elyssa B. , Zhang Shiliang , Morales Marisela
Published: February 2021

The ventral tegmental area (VTA) contains dopamine neurons intermixed with GABA‐releasing (expressing vesicular GABA transporter, VGaT), glutamate‐releasing (expressing vesicular glutamate transporter 2, VGluT2), and glutamate‐GABA co‐releasing (co‐expressing VGluT2 and VGaT) neurons. By delivering INTRSECT viral vectors into the VTA of double vglut2‐Cre/vgat‐Flp transgenic mice, we targeted specific VTA cell populations for ex vivo recordings. We found that VGluT2+ VGaT− and VGluT2+ VGaT+ neurons on average had relatively hyperpolarized resting membrane potential, greater rheobase, and lower spontaneous firing frequency compared to VGluT2− VGaT+ neurons, suggesting that VTA glutamate‐releasing and glutamate‐GABA co‐releasing neurons require stronger excitatory drive to fire than GABA‐releasing neurons. In addition, we detected expression of Oprm1mRNA (encoding µ opioid receptors, MOR) in VGluT2+ VGaT− and VGluT2− VGaT+ neurons, and that the MOR agonist DAMGO hyperpolarized neurons with these phenotypes. Collectively, we demonstrate the utility of the double transgenic mouse to access VTA glutamate, glutamate‐GABA, and GABA neurons to determine their electrophysiological properties.

Significant statement

Some physiological properties of VTA glutamate‐releasing and glutamate‐GABA co‐releasing neurons are distinct from those of VTA GABA‐releasing neurons. µ‐opioid receptor activation hyperpolarizes some VTA glutamate‐releasing and some GABA‐releasing neurons.
DynamisandEnergeiain Aristotle'sMetaphysics
Authors: Unlu Hikmet
Published: February 2021

This paper offers an interpretation of Aristotle's concepts ofdynamisandenergeia(commonly translated as potentiality and actuality) and of the thematic progression ofMetaphysicsIX. I first raise the question of where motion fits in Aristotle's categories and argue that thelocusof motion in the system of categories are the categories of doing and suffering, in which casedynamisandenergeiain respect of motion can also be understood as thedynamisandenergeiaof doing and suffering. Next, I argue that the analogy that Aristotle draws in IX.6 is an analogy between thedynamisandenergeiaof doing and suffering and thedynamisandenergeiaof substance. Finally, I try to show that it is this analogy between the kinetic and nonkinetic variants ofdynamisandenergeia—and not the distinction between end‐inclusive and end‐exclusive activities—that provides the key to understanding the structure ofMetaphysicsIX.
polished rice mediates ecdysone‐dependent control of Drosophila embryonic organogenesis
Authors: Taira Yuki , Wada Housei , Hayashi Shigeo , Kageyama Yuji
Published: February 2021

In many animals, progression of developmental stages is temporally controlled by steroid hormones. In Drosophila, the level of ecdysone titer oscillates and developmental stage transitions, such as larval molting and metamorphosis, are induced at each of ecdysone peaks. Ecdysone titer also peaks at the stage of mid‐embryogenesis and the embryonic ecdysone is necessary for morphogenesis of several organs, although the regulatory mechanisms of embryonic organogenesis dependent on ecdysone signaling are still open questions. In this study, we find that absence or interruption of embryonic ecdysone signaling caused multiple defects in the tracheal system, including decrease in luminal protein deposition, uneven dilation of the dorsal trunk and loss of terminal branches. We also reveal that an ecdysone‐inducible gene polished rice (pri) is essential for tip cell fate decision in dorsal branches. As over‐expression of pri can restore the defects caused by disturbance of ecdysone biosynthesis, pri functions as one of the major mediators of embryonic ecdysone signal in tracheogenesis. These results demonstrate that ecdysone and its downstream target pri play essential roles in tracheal development by modulating cell fate decision.
Immunohistochemical characterisation and histopathology of astrocytic neoplasms at a tertiary Nigerian hospital
Authors: Nweke Michael , Ogun Gabriel , Adeleye Amos , Okolo Clement A. , Adesina Adekunle
Published: February 2021

Aim

To describe histological features and pattern of expression of selected markers including epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR), mutant p53 and mutant isocitrate dehydrogenase‐1 (IDH‐1R132H) among astrocytic neoplasms at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.

Design

A retrospective cross‐sectional study involving histologically diagnosed Central Nervous System (CNS) neoplasms between January 2004 and December 2015. Haematoxylin and Eosin Slides of 81 cases of astrocytomas were retrieved, re‐cut and reviewed. Ethical clearance was obtained from the ethical board of the hospital. Immunohistochemistry using the Biotin‐Streptavidin system was performed with IDH‐1 R132H, p53 and EGFR mouse monoclonal antibodies (MOABs) specific against all the cases of astrocytomas under review. All cases were graded and classified using the World Health Organisation (WHO) Classification of Central Nervous System tumours (2016). Membranous and cytoplasmic staining of EGFR and IDH‐1R132H mouse monoclonal antibodies, respectively, were regarded as positive while nuclear staining of p53 mouse monoclonal antibody was regarded as positive. The data obtained were analysed with the level of statistical significance set at P < .05.

Results

Males constituted a majority of cases, 50 (61.7%). Male‐Female ratio was 1.6:1. Mean age was 30.6 years. Tumours were of a higher WHO grade with increasing age, albeit glioblastoma cases tended to present at younger ages. The higher WHO grades were more likely to be located supratentorially. Glioblastomas accounted for most of the diagnosis 39 (48.1%), followed by pilocytic astrocytomas at 23 (28.4%). There was a low positive cytoplasmic expression of IDH‐1 with only three (3.7%) being positive, eight (9.9%) showed a positive nuclear expression for mutant p53 while 17 (21%) showed membranous positivity for EGFR expression.

Conclusion

There are similar epidemiological trends between our cohort of patients and as described in most instances worldwide. Optimal stratification for astrocytomas can be achieved using a combination of IDH‐1/EGFR immunohistochemistry.
Prognostic value of intraductal carcinoma for adjuvant radiotherapy candidates after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Karakoc Sedat , Celik Serdar , Kaya Nilhan , Bozkurt Ozan , Ellidokuz Hulya , Tuna Burcin , Yorukoglu Kutsal , Mungan Mehmet Ugur
Published: February 2021

Objective

To investigate the prognostic significance of intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDC‐P) in radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens and predictive value of IDC‐P for biochemical recurrence and adjuvant therapy decision.

Method

We retrospectively evaluated patients who were performed RP between 2000 and 2014. Among, 67 patients who had stage pT3a tumour with negative surgical margin (Group 1, n = 35) and who had stage pT2 tumour with positive surgical margin (Group 2, n = 32) were included in the study. RP specimens were re‐evaluated for the presence of IDC‐P component and other prognostic factors. In both the groups, prognostic factors were compared according to the presence of IDC‐P and biochemical recurrence status.

Results

In Group 1, IDC‐P was detected in five cases and biochemical recurrence was detected in three cases. Patients with IDC‐P showed significantly higher biochemical recurrence than those without IDC‐P (P = .002). In univariate analysis, IDC‐P was found to be significantly associated with worse progression‐free survival (P < .001). In Group 2, IDC‐P was detected in four cases and biochemical recurrence was detected in 10 cases. Also, tumour volume was significantly higher in patients with IDC‐P than those without IDC‐P (P = .02). IDC‐P was also significantly associated with worse progression‐free survival in Group 2 (P = .033).

Conclusions

In both the groups, IDC‐P was a prognostic factor for progression‐free survival and/or biochemical recurrence. Especially in these patients, the presence of IDC‐P might be helpful for postoperative adjuvant therapy management decision.
The utility of systemic‐immune inflammation index for predicting the disease activation in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Dincer Rota Didem , Tanacan Efsun
Published: February 2021

Objective

To evaluate the utility of systemic‐immune inflammation index (SII) in the management of patients with psoriasis.

Method

This retrospective case‐control study was conducted on patients who were admitted to the dermatology outpatient clinic. Patients with psoriasis (n = 71) were compared with a age and gender‐matched control group (n = 70) with other non‐inflammatory dermatologic diseases. Study and control groups were compared in terms of clinical characteristics and SII values (neutrophil X platelet/lymphocyte). Afterwards, 50th percentile value (4.5) for psoriasis area severity index (PASI) was calculated for the study group. Two subgroups were formed according to PASI values: (1) PASI < 4.5 group (n = 36) and (2) PASI ≥ 4.5 (n = 35). Clinical characteristics and SII values were also compared between these two subgroups. Furthermore, SII values were compared according to the presence of scalp, joint, nail, and genital area involvement in the study group. Finally, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed in order to assess the performance of SII in determining the activation of psoriasis in the study group.

Results

Significantly higher SII values were found in patients with psoriasis. PASI ≥ 4.5 subgroup and patients with nail and genital involvement had also significantly higher SII values (P < .05). A cut‐off value of 575.8 was calculated with 66.7% sensitivity and 66% specificity for psoriasis activation.

Conclusion

SII may be used for the prediction of psoriasis activation.
Influence of hydrophobic and hydrophilic filler particles on thermal expansion and cooking loss in meat protein gels
Authors: Katz Felix‐Alexander , Grossmann Lutz , Gerhards Christian , Weiss Jochen , Gibis Monika
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to determine the effect of replacing hydrophobic fat‐based particles with hydrophilic inert glass particles at concentrations 10%, 25% and 40% on expansion, contraction and cooking loss of meat protein gels during heat treatment up to 85 °C. Incorporating glass particles resulted in gel expansion (up to 22.3% ± 2.8% at 40%) independent of the particle concentration during heat treatment in an open system, while an increased fat‐particle content provoked a gel shrinkage (up to −6.5% ± 2.2% at 40%). At high filler concentrations, expansion and shrinkage were inversely correlated with cooking loss: The highest fat and glass particle filler concentration exhibited the lowest cooking loss (20.1% ± 0.5% for glass particles and 21.7% ± 0.2% for fat particles) despite the observed extensive structural changes, which was related to particle hydrophilicity, gel composition and structural rearrangement. These results will be helpful to design particle‐filled composite meat gels with different types of particles.
Developing smarter vaccines for paratuberculosis: From early biomarkers to vaccine design
Authors: de Silva Kumudika
Published: February 2021

Vaccines for paratuberculosis have been used for over a hundred years but the disease continues to affect ruminant health and livestock industries globally. Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis which causes the disease also known as Johne's disease is a subversive pathogen able to undermine both innate and adaptive host defense mechanisms. This review focuses on early protective immune pathways that lead to some animals becoming resilient to infection to provide a road map for designing better vaccines and emphasizes the need for harnessing the potential of mucosal immunity.
Ultra‐low temperature preparation of mullite glass‐ceramics with high transparency sintered from EMT‐type zeolite
Authors: Zhao Yuye , Zhou Beiying , Qiu Pengpeng , Fan Yuchi , Zheng Qi , Luo Wei , Cheng Xiaowei , Wang Lianjun , Jiang Wan
Published: February 2021

Nanocrystalline mullite glass‐ceramics have been regarded as an ideal optical window material due to its excellent thermal shock resistance, low dielectric constant, and perfect high‐temperature strength. However, the fabrication of high‐purity mullite glass‐ceramics at a low temperature still faces great challenges. Herein, highly transparent mullite glass‐ceramics have been prepared at an ultra‐low temperature (~800°C) via the spark plasma sintering (SPS) of EMT‐type zeolite. Unlike the mullite glass‐ceramics made by the conventional sintering process, the one obtained in this study present high transparency both in the visible and infrared regions. The sintering activity and linear thermal shrinkage behavior of sample during the SPS process has been thoroughly investigated. Benefitted from the existence of ultra‐small mullite nanocrystals, the derived glass‐ceramics g‐950 possess a high Vickers hardness (7.0 GPa), Young's modulus (86.6 GPa), and MSP strength (123.2 MPa), which show more excellent mechanical properties than conventional aluminasilicate or silica glass.
Cancer‐associated fibroblast‐derived exosomal microRNA‐24‐3p enhances colon cancer cell resistance to MTX by down‐regulating CDX2/HEPH axis
Authors: Zhang Hong‐Wei , Shi Yi , Liu Ji‐Bin , Wang Hui‐Min , Wang Pei‐Yao , Wu Zhi‐Jun , Li Liu , Gu Li‐Peng , Cao Ping‐Sheng , Wang Gao‐Ren , Ma Yu‐Shui , Fu Da
Published: February 2021

MicroRNA‐24‐3p (miR‐24‐3p) has been implicated as a key promoter of chemotherapy resistance in numerous cancers. Meanwhile, cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) can secret exosomes to transfer miRNAs, which mediate tumour development. However, little is known regarding the molecular mechanism of CAF‐derived exosomal miR‐24‐3p in colon cancer (CC). Hence, this study intended to characterize the functional relevance of CAF‐derived exosomal miR‐24‐3p in CC cell resistance to methotrexate (MTX). We identified differentially expressed HEPH, CDX2 and miR‐24‐3p in CC through bioinformatics analyses, and validated their expression in CC tissues and cells. The relationship among HEPH, CDX2 and miR‐24‐3p was verified using ChIP and dual‐luciferase reporter gene assays. Exosomes were isolated from miR‐24‐3p inhibitor–treated CAFs (CAFs‐exo/miR‐24‐3p inhibitor), which were used in combination with gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function experiments and MTX treatment. CCK‐8, flow cytometry and colony formation assays were conducted to determine cell viability, apoptosis and colony formation, respectively. Based on the findings, CC tissues and cells presented with high expression of miR‐24‐3p and low expression of HEPH and CDX2. CDX2 was a target gene of miR‐24‐3p and could up‐regulate HEPH. Under MTX treatment, overexpressed CDX2 or HEPH and down‐regulated miR‐24‐3p reduced cell viability and colony formation and elevated cell apoptosis. Furthermore, miR‐24‐3p was transferred into CC cells via CAF‐derived exosomes. CAF‐derived exosomal miR‐24‐3p inhibitor diminished cell viability and colony formation and increased cell apoptosis in vitro and inhibited tumour growth in vivo under MTX treatment. Altogether, CAF‐derived exosomal miR‐24‐3p accelerated resistance of CC cells to MTX by down‐regulating CDX2/HEPH axis.
A mobile unit overcomes the challenges to monoclonal antibody infusion for COVID‐19 in skilled care facilities
Authors: Tulledge‐Scheitel Sidna , Bell Sarah J. , Larsen Jennifer J. , Bierle Dennis M. , Takahashi Paul , Moehnke Darcie E. , Destro Borgen Molly J. , Springer Donna J. , Reinschmidt Karen J. , Baumbach Lori J. , Matoush Jennifer A. , Heyliger Alexander , Hanson Sara N. , Razonable Raymund R. , Ganesh Ravindra
Published: February 2021

Background

Residents of nursing homes and long‐term care facilities are at increased risk for severe coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19) but may not be able to access monoclonal antibody therapies offered at outpatient infusion centers due to frailty and logistical issues. We describe a mobile monoclonal antibody infusion program for patients with COVID‐19 in skilled nursing facilities and provide descriptive data on its outcomes.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Collaboration between Mayo Clinic and skilled nursing facilities in Southeast Minnesota was developed to administer anti‐spike monoclonal antibodies under the FDA Emergency Use Authorization.

Participants

Seventy five residents of skilled nursing facilities at high risk of COVID‐19 complications.

Exposure

Emergency use treatment with bamlanivimab and casirivimab–imdevimab.

Measurements

Hospitalization and medically attended visits.

Results

The mobile infusion unit, staffed by Mayo Clinic Infusion Therapy registered nurses and supported by the skilled nursing facility staff, infused anti‐spike monoclonal antibodies to 45 of 75 patients (average age, 77.8 years) in December 2020. The infusions occurred at an average of 4.3 days after COVID‐19 diagnosis. Fourteen days after infusion, there were no deaths, two emergency department visits, and three hospitalizations, for a combined event rate of 11.1%. There was one reported adverse event.

Conclusion

The implementation of a mobile infusion unit embedded in a collaborative process resulted in rapid infusion of monoclonal antibodies to high‐risk COVID‐19 patients in skilled nursing facilities, who would otherwise be unable to access the novel therapies. The therapies were well tolerated and appear beneficial. Further study is warranted to explore the scalability and efficacy of this program.
Metabolism of [1,6‐13C]glucose in the cerebellum of 18‐day‐old rats: Comparison with cerebral metabolism
Authors: Ferreira Gustavo C. , Karimi Arman J. , Waddell Jaylyn , McKenna Mary C.
Published: February 2021

There is little information on metabolism in developing cerebellum despite the known importance of this region in cognition and motor tasks. Ex vivo 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR spectroscopy were used to determine metabolism during late postnatal development in cerebellum and cerebrum from 18‐day‐old rat pups after intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of [1,6‐13C]glucose. The concentration of several metabolites in cerebellum was distinctly different than cerebrum; alanine, glutamine, creatine and myo‐inositol were higher in cerebellum than cerebrum, the concentrations of lactate, GABA, aspartate and N‐acetylaspartate (NAA) were lower in cerebellum than in cerebrum, and levels of glutamate, succinate, choline and taurine were similar in both brain regions. The incorporation of label from the metabolism of [1,6‐13C]glucose into most isotopomers of glutamate (GLU), glutamine (GLN), GABA and aspartate was lower in cerebellum than in cerebrum. Incorporation of label into the C2 position of lactate via the pyruvate recycling pathway was found in both brain regions. The ratio of newly synthesized GLN/GLU was significantly higher in cerebellum than in cerebrum indicating relatively active metabolism via glutamine synthetase in cerebellar astrocytes at postnatal day 18. This is the first study to determine metabolism in the cerebellum and cerebrum of male and female rat brain.

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Acute and chronic inflammatory neuropathies and COVID‐19 vaccines: Practical recommendations from the task force of the Italian Peripheral Nervous System Association (ASNP)
Authors: Doneddu Pietro E. , Spina Emanuele , Briani Chiara , Fabrizi Gian Maria , Manganelli Fiore , Nobile‐Orazio Eduardo ,   the Italian Peripheral Nervous System Association (ASNP)
Published: February 2021

Background and aims

To develop recommendations for vaccination for coronavirus‐19 (COVID‐19) in patients with inflammatory neuropathies.

Methods

Key questions were formulated in order to perform a literature review on the safety and efficacy of vaccines in patients with inflammatory neuropathies. Based on the best evidence and expert opinion, a list of recommendations was formulated to inform decision on vaccination for COVID‐19 in patients with inflammatory neuropathies and increase adherence to vaccination programmes.

Results

Recommendations addressing safety and efficacy of vaccination in patients with inflammatory neuropathies were formulated. No data are currently available on the safety and efficacy of COVID‐19 vaccines in patients with inflammatory neuropathies or other immune‐mediated conditions. There is only sparse data on the safety of previous available vaccines in patients with inflammatory neuropathies, but studies on other autoimmune disorders indicate that these are safe and mostly efficacious. Patients with inflammatory neuropathies might be at increased risk for severe illness from COVID‐19.

Interpretation

Patients with inflammatory neuropathies should be encouraged to adhere to the vaccination campaign for COVID‐19. These recommendations provide guidance on the management of vaccinations for COVID‐19 in patients with inflammatory neuropathies. More research is needed regarding the safety and efficacy of vaccination in patients with inflammatory neuropathies and other immune conditions.
Diversity in visual sensitivity across Neotropical cichlid fishes via differential expression and intraretinal variation of opsin genes
Authors: Torres‐Dowdall Julián , Karagic Nidal , Härer Andreas , Meyer Axel
Published: February 2021

The visual system of vertebrates has greatly contributed to our understanding of how different molecular mechanisms shape adaptive phenotypic diversity. Extensive work on African cichlid fishes has shown how variation in opsin gene expression mediates diversification as well as convergent evolution in colour vision. This trait has received less attention in Neotropical cichlids, the sister lineage to African cichlids, but the work done so far led to the conclusion that colour vision is much less variable in Neotropical species. However, as only few taxa have been investigated and as recent work found contradicting patterns, the diversity in meotropical cichlids might be greatly underestimated. Here, we survey patterns of opsin gene expression in 35 representative species of Neotropical cichlids, revealing much more variation than previously known. This diversity can be attributed to two main mechanisms: (i) differential expression of the blue‐sensitive sws2a, the green‐sensitive rh2a, and the red‐sensitive lws opsin genes, and (ii) simultaneous expression of up to five opsin genes, instead of only three as commonly found, in a striking dorsoventral pattern across the retina. This intraretinal variation in opsin genes expression results in steep gradients in visual sensitivity that may represent a convergent adaptation to clear waters with broad light environments. These results highlight the role and flexibility of gene expression in generating adaptive phenotypic diversification.
Finding alignment between numbers and values in medical education
Authors: Han Jason J. , Soegaard Ballester Jacqueline M. , Aarons Cary B.
Published: February 2021

Reflecting on the push‐pull dynamics of incentive structures, Han et al. explore the unintended consequences of emphasizing number of academic items on medical trainees' CVs.
A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled crossover pilot study: Acute effects of the enzyme α‐galactosidase on gastrointestinal symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome patients
Authors: Böhn Lena , Törnblom Hans , Van Oudenhove Lukas , Simrén Magnus , Störsrud Stine
Published: February 2021

Background

Postprandial symptoms presumably related to intestinal gas production are common in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The aim of the study was to assess if oral α‐galactosidase is superior to placebo in reducing gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and intestinal gas production after ingestion of carbohydrate‐rich meals in adult patients with IBS.

Methods

We studied the effect of 1200 GaIU/meal α‐galactosidase (Nogasin®) or placebo capsules on GI symptoms in patients with IBS after three standardized, meals high in oligosaccharides, in a randomized, double‐blind, crossover study. The intensity of eight GI symptoms was rated, and breath hydrogen and methane were measured every 30 min during 7.5 h. The severity of GI symptoms the following morning was assessed and compared with baseline.S

Key Results

Twenty adult patients with IBS (19 females), mean age 49 years (range 22–75 years), were included. All test meals were well tolerated but induced a gradual increase in GI symptom severity. Neither GI symptom ratings over time, nor hydrogen and methane concentrations differed between the days with α‐galactosidase or placebo. The severity of abdominal pain and bloating was lower the following morning, but with no differences between α‐galactosidase and placebo.

Conclusions & Inferences

The use of α‐galactosidase together with meals high in oligosaccharides was in this pilot study not superior to placebo in reducing postprandial GI symptoms or the concentration of hydrogen and methane in expired air in IBS.
The hydraulic architecture of an arborescent monocot: ontogeny‐related adjustments in vessel size and leaf area compensate for increased resistance
Authors: Yang Dongmei , Zhang Yinshuang , Zhou Dan , Zhang Yong‐Jiang , Peng Guoquan , Tyree Melvin T.
Published: February 2021

Bamboos are arborescent monocotyledons that have no secondary growth, but can continually produce conduits with diameters appropriate to the current size of the plant. Here, we studied bamboo hydraulic architecture to address the mechanisms involved in compensating for the increase in hydraulic resistance during ontogeny.

We measured the hydraulic weighted vessel diameters (Dh) at different distances from the apex along the stem ofBambusa textilis. The hydraulic resistance of different components and individuals of different heights were quantified using the high‐pressure flowmeter method.

TheDhshowed tip‐to‐base widening with a scaling exponent in the range of those reported for trees. Although theoretical hydraulic conductivity decreased from base‐to‐tip, leaf‐specific conductivity did not change. Leaves contributed the most to the whole‐shoot hydraulic resistance, followed by the leaf‐bearing branches. Roots contributedc. 13% to whole‐plant resistance. Interestingly, taller individuals showed lower whole‐shoot resistance owing to an increased number of resistances in parallel (side‐branches), while leaf‐specific resistance was independent of plant size.

Tip‐to‐base vessel widening and height‐independent constant leaf‐specific conductance could be mechanisms for hydraulic optimization inB. textilis. Similar patterns have also been found in woody plants with secondary growth, but this bamboo exhibits them without secondary growth.
Effects of ultrasound, radial extracorporeal shock waves, and electrical stimulation on rat bone defect healing
Authors: Inoue Shota , Hatakeyama Junpei , Aoki Hitoshi , Kuroki Hiroshi , Niikura Takahiro , Oe Keisuke , Fukui Tomoaki , Kuroda Ryosuke , Akisue Toshihiro , Moriyama Hideki
Published: February 2021

Fractures associated with osteoporosis are a major public health concern. Current treatments for fractures are limited to surgery or fixation, leading to long‐term bedrest, which is linked to increased mortality. Alternatively, utilization of physical agents has been suggested as a promising therapeutic approach for fractures. Here, we examined the effects of ultrasound, radial extracorporeal shock waves, and electrical stimulation on normal or osteoporotic fracture healing. Femoral bone defects were created in normal or ovariectomized rats. Rats were divided into four groups: untreated, and treated with ultrasound, shock waves, or electrical stimulation after surgery. Samples were collected at 2 or 4 weeks after surgery, and the healing process was evaluated with micro‐CT, histological, and immunohistochemical analyses. Ultrasound at intensities of 0.5 and 1.0 W/cm2, but not 0.05 W/cm2, accelerated new bone formation. Shock wave exposure also increased newly formed bone, but formed abnormal periosteal callus around the defect site. Conversely, electrical stimulation did not affect the healing process. Ultrasound exposure increased osteoblast activity and cell proliferation and decreased sclerostin‐positive osteocytes. We demonstrated that higher‐intensity ultrasound and radial extracorporeal shock waves accelerate fracture healing, but shock wave treatment may increase the risk of periosteal callus formation.
The immune system of sturgeons and paddlefish (Acipenseriformes): a review with new data from a chromosome‐scale sturgeon genome
Authors: Höhne Christin , Prokopov Dmitry , Kuhl Heiner , Du Kang , Klopp Christophe , Wuertz Sven , Trifonov Vladimir , Stöck Matthias
Published: February 2021

Sturgeon immunity is relevant for basic evolutionary and applied research, including caviar‐ and meat‐producing aquaculture, protection of wild sturgeons and their re‐introduction through conservation aquaculture. Starting from a comprehensive overview of immune organs, we discuss pathways of innate and adaptive immune systems in a vertebrate phylogenetic and genomic context. The thymus as a key organ of adaptive immunity in sturgeons requires future molecular studies. Likewise, data on immune functions of sturgeon‐specific pericardial and meningeal tissues are largely missing. Integrating immunological and endocrine functions, the sturgeon head kidney resembles that of teleosts. Recently identified pattern recognition receptors in sturgeon require research on downstream regulation. We review first acipenseriform data on Toll‐like receptors (TLRs), type I transmembrane glycoproteins expressed in membranes and endosomes, initiating inflammation and host defence by molecular pattern‐induced activation. Retinoic acid‐inducible gene‐I‐like (RIG‐like) receptors of sturgeons present RNA and key sensors of virus infections in most cell types. Sturgeons and teleosts share major components of the adaptive immune system, including B cells, immunoglobulins, major histocompatibility complex and the adaptive cellular response by T cells. The ontogeny of the sturgeon innate and onset of adaptive immune genes in different organs remain understudied. In a genomics perspective, our new data on 100 key immune genes exemplify a multitude of evolutionary trajectories after the sturgeon‐specific genome duplication, where some single‐copy genes contrast with many duplications, allowing tissue specialization, sub‐functionalization or both. Our preliminary conclusion should be tested by future evolutionary bioinformatics, involving all >1000 immunity genes. This knowledge update about the acipenseriform immune system identifies several important research gaps and presents a basis for future applications.
Income inequality and economic growth: A re‐examination of theory and evidence
Authors: Balcilar Mehmet , Gupta Rangan , Ma Wei , Makena Philton
Published: February 2021

We re‐examine the theoretical and empirical relationship between income inequality and long‐run economic growth in an endogenous growth model with a flat tax on income, distributive conflicts among agents, and median voter dynamics. We show that when government spends tax revenue on the provision of public goods in the form of both production and consumption services, the theoretical relationship between inequality and economic growth is neither strictly positive nor strictly negative, but ambiguous. An empirical evaluation of the theoretical findings is carried out by applying a semi‐parametric model on a sample of 63 countries for the period 1991–2017. Results show that the relationship between income inequality and growth takes the form of an inverted U‐shape in that income inequality initially has a positive impact on growth up to an average Gini coefficient threshold of 35.92, beyond which it negatively impacts on growth.
Application of a Reduced Order Model for Fuzzy Analysis of Linear Static Systems
Authors: Valdebenito Marcos A. , Jensen Héctor A. , Wei Pengfei , Beer Michael , Beck André T.
Published: February 2021

This contribution proposes a strategy for performing fuzzy analysis of linear static systems applying α-level optimization. In order to decrease numerical costs, full system analyses are replaced by a reduced order model that projects the equilibrium equations to a small-dimensional space. The basis associated with the reduced order model is constructed by means of a single analysis of the system plus a sensitivity analysis. This reduced basis is enriched as the α-level optimization strategy progresses in order to protect the quality of the approximations provided by the reduced order model. A numerical example shows that with the proposed strategy, it is possible to produce an accurate estimate of the membership function of the response of the system with a limited number of full system analyses.
Design of a Serious Game for Children to Raise Awareness on Plastic Pollution and Promoting Pro-Environmental Behaviors
Authors: Panagiotopoulou Loukia , Cía Gayarre Nora , Scurati Giulia Wally , Etzi Roberta , Massetti Gemma , Gallace Alberto , Ferrise Francesco
Published: February 2021

The massive presence of plastic in the oceans, both in the form of large debris and micro-plastic, is raising global concern due to its severe effects on the marine environment and fauna, causing loss of biodiversity and potentially threatening human health. Even though this is due to poor waste management, the great production and consumption of single-use plastic is a significant exacerbating factor. Despite policies and bans can be effective measures, there is also the need to raise consumers’ awareness, so they can make more sustainable choices when purchasing, using, and dismissing products. In particular, educating young citizens and encouraging them to engage in pro-environmental behaviors is a fundamental task to reach this goal. In this work, we present Contact from the future, a digital game on plastic pollution for children, to create awareness and stimulate pro-environmental behaviors, discussing the definition of objectives and requirements, as well as the design and development of the application.
Deletion of Rv2571c Confers Resistance to Arylamide Compounds in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Shelton Catherine D. , McNeil Matthew B. , Early Julie V. , Ioerger Thomas R. , Parish Tanya
Published: February 2021

Tuberculosis, caused by
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, is an urgent global health problem requiring new drugs, new drug targets, and an increased understanding of antibiotic resistance. We have determined the mode of resistance to be a series of arylamide compounds in
M. tuberculosis
.
Light Capture, Skeletal Morphology, and the Biomass of Corals’ Boring Endoliths
Authors: Fordyce A. J. , Ainsworth T. D. , Leggat W.
Published: February 2021

Microbial communities living inside the skeletons of living corals play a variety of important roles within the coral meta-organism, both symbiotic and parasitic. Properly contextualizing the contribution of these enigmatic microbes to the life history of coral reefs requires knowledge of how these endolithic biofilms vary between coral species.
Why Are Viruses Spiked?
Authors: Shen Chongyang , Bradford Scott A.
Published: February 2021

Many viruses, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), have a structure consisting of spikes protruding from an underlying spherical surface. Research in biological and colloidal sciences has revealed secrets of why spikes exist on virus surfaces.
Genomic and Chemical Diversity of Bacillus subtilis Secondary Metabolites against Plant Pathogenic Fungi
Authors: Kiesewalter Heiko T. , Lozano-Andrade Carlos N. , Wibowo Mario , Strube Mikael L. , Maróti Gergely , Snyder Dan , Jørgensen Tue Sparholt , Larsen Thomas O. , Cooper Vaughn S. , Weber Tilmann , Kovács Ákos T.
Published: February 2021

Secondary or specialized metabolites with antimicrobial activities define the biocontrol properties of microorganisms. Members of the
Bacillus
genus produce a plethora of secondary metabolites, of which nonribosomally produced lipopeptides in particular display strong antifungal activity.
Modeling Growth Kinetics, Interspecies Cell Fusion, and Metabolism of a Clostridium acetobutylicum/Clostridium ljungdahlii Syntrophic Coculture
Authors: Foster Charles , Charubin Kamil , Papoutsakis Eleftherios T. , Maranas Costas D.
Published: February 2021

Widespread cell fusion and protein exchange between microbial organisms as observed in synthetic
C. acetobutylicum
/
C. ljungdahlii
culture is a novel observation that has not been explored
in silico
. The mechanisms responsible for the observed cell fusion events in this culture are still unknown.
Supplemental Material: Prehistoric earthquakes on the Banning strand of the San Andreas fault, North Palm Springs, California
Authors: Castillo B.A. , al. et
Published: February 2021

Details of luminescence methods and results, and table of event indicators.
Otolaryngologist’s role in the diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Costa Joana Borges , Pereira Diogo , Duarte Delfim , Viana Miguel
Published: February 2021

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and late-onset fatal neurodegenerative disease characterised by selective death of motor neurons. The aetiology of ALS is still unknown and it is extremely heterogeneous in genetics and clinical presentation, being the respiratory failure the usual cause of death. We describe a case of a 61-year-old male patient referred to the otolaryngology consultation for a 6-month history of progressive solid dysphagia and dysphonia. The patient presented several voice alterations such as a dysarthric speech with hypernasal voice which evoked the hypothesis of a neuromuscular disease. That patient was observed by a neurologist and was submitted to an electromyography that confirmed the ALS diagnosis. This case highlights the key role of otolaryngologists in the diagnosis of ALS, in a way that many patients with a bulbar ALS form are initially studied by an otolaryngologist.
Idiopathic bilateral ovarian vein thrombosis
Authors: Christy Joshua , Jarugula Divya , Kesari Kavitha , Kunadi Arvind
Published: February 2021

Ovarian vein thrombosis (OVT) is a condition most commonly associated with malignancy, hypercoagulable disorders, pelvic surgery, trauma, inflammatory bowel disease and the postpartum period. Idiopathic bilateral OVT is extremely rare. We report the case of a 30-year-old African-American woman who presented with bilateral lower pelvic pain and nausea. She had no recent pelvic infections nor a personal or family history of malignancy or thrombophilia. Workup results for a hypercoagulable state was negative. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed bilateral OVT. Treatment included novel oral anticoagulants or warfarin, with comparison studies showing a similar risk–benefit ratio. Repeat imaging is recommended after 40–60 days to determine the necessity for further anticoagulation. Emphasis is placed on starting anticoagulation early in order to reduce the risk of extension of the thrombus into the inferior vena cava, conversion to pulmonary embolism or increase in the risk of infection.
IgG4-related disease: a great mimicker of lung cancer
Authors: Simon Natalie Louise , Negmeldin Mostafa
Published: February 2021

IgG4-related disease is a rheumatological disorder, affecting multiple organ systems, and displaying dense lymphoplasmacytic inflammatory infiltrate and storiform fibrosis on histology. The pulmonary manifestations of IgG4-related disease are varied. Most commonly, bronchovascular consolidation and perilymphatic parenchymal thickening occur. IgG4-related disease can present as a solitary parenchymal mass and is often mistaken for a primary pulmonary or haematological malignancy. This report presents a case of IgG4-related disease in a patient with 6 months reported haemoptysis symptomatology and CT findings of perihilar lymphadenopathy, multiple pulmonary parenchymal nodules and a single parenchymal mass. Clinician cognisance of the histopathological presentation of IgG4-disease is important. It should be considered as a differential in patients for which investigations have ruled out malignancy, as it is responsive to glucocorticoids in the majority of cases.
IgM paraprotein and anti-MAG sensory polyneuropathy associated with Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinaemia and medullary carcinoma of the thyroid
Authors: Yang Yunfei , Canepa Carlo
Published: February 2021

A previously fit and well 76-year-old man, presented with distal lower limb sensory symptoms suggestive of peripheral sensory neuropathy, associated with positive anti-MAG antibodies (myelin associated glycoprotein) and IgM paraprotein. Bone marrow biopsy showed lymphoplasmocytoid lymphoma (Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinaemia, WM), consequently positive for MYD88 mutation. He subsequently developed medullary carcinoma of the thyroid, most likely secondary to WM. He underwent a successful total thyroidectomy and four treatment doses of rituximab, which proved beneficial. He is currently stable and under multidisciplinary monitoring. His sensory symptoms have improved following rituximab treatment and his WM is under control.
Acute confusional state as a prognostic sign of COVID-19 large-vessel occlusion (LVO)
Authors: Deliwala Smit Sunil , Hussain Murtaza , Ponnapalli Anoosha , Awuah Dominic , Dawood Thair , Bachuwa Ghassan
Published: February 2021

COVID-19 is well known for its respiratory symptoms, but severe presentations can alter haemostasis, causing acute end-organ damage with poor outcomes. Among its various neurological presentations, cerebrovascular events often present as small-vessel strokes. Although uncommon, in predisposed individuals, large-vessel occlusions (LVOs) can occur as a possible consequence of direct viral action (viral burden or antigenic structure) or virus-induced cytokine storm. Subtle presentations and complicated stroke care pathways continue to exist, delaying timely care. We present a unique case of COVID-19 LVO manifesting as an acute confusional state in an elderly man in April 2020. CT angiography revealed 'de novo' occlusions of the left internal carotid artery and proximal right vertebral artery, effectively blocking anterior and posterior circulations. Delirium can lead to inaccurate stroke scale assessments and prolong initiation of COVID-19 stroke care pathways. Future studies are needed to look into the temporal relationship between confusion and neurological manifestations.