bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni infection in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hussen Siraj , Assegu Demissie , Tadesse Birkneh Tilahun , Shimelis Techalew
Published: February 2021

Background

Schistosomiasis is a common helminthic infection in the tropics and subtropics, particularly in sub-Saharan African countries including Ethiopia. In these counties,Schistosoma mansoniinfection is a significant public health problem due to the risk of reinfection and recurrent disease despite implementing several rounds preventive chemotherapy. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at assessing the pooled prevalence of schistosomiasis in Ethiopia.

Methods

The PRISMA guidelines were followed to perform the systematic review and meta-analysis. Published studies from January 1999 to June 2020 were searched in Medline, PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, HINARI, and Cochrane Library using key words including: “prevalence”, “incidence”, “schistosomiasis” “Bilharziasis”, “Bilharzia”, “S. mansoni“, “Ethiopia”. Heterogeneity of included studies was assessed using Cochran’s Q test andI2test statistics while publication bias was assessed using Egger’s test.

Results

Ninety-four studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence ofS. mansoniin Ethiopia was 18.0% (95%CI: 14.0–23.0). The southern region of Ethiopia had a higherS. mansoniprevalence of 25.9% (995% CI, 14.9–41.1) than the national prevalence. The burden ofS. mansoniinfection was also higher than the national average in rural areas and among men with pooled prevalence of 20.2% (95% CI, 13.2–28.5) and 28.5% (95%CI, 22.7,35.1), respectively. The trend analysis showed that the prevalence ofS. mansoniinfection in Ethiopia decreased over the past 15 years, potentially because of the repeated preventive chemotherapy.

Conclusion

The review unveiled a moderate prevalence ofS. mansoniinfection in Ethiopia. Targeted treatment of at-risk population groups ad high burden areas coupled with implementation of integrated vector control strategies are critical to address the burden of Schistosomiasis.
The Progestin Revolution: progestins are arising as the dominant players in the tight interlink between contraceptives and bleeding control
Authors: Shoupe Donna
Published: February 2021

Since the introduction of the first modern contraceptive methods, the interlink between bleeding control and contraceptive development has been a dominant and critical factor. This interplay has led to the development of safer and better contraceptive methods that are often used to control bleeding in both women with normal bleeding patterns as well as in those suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). The success of progestin-only methods, such as hormonal IUDs or progestin dominant oral contraceptives in substantially decreasing and controlling menstrual bleeding, has led to development of multiple progestin-only protocols for the sole purpose of bleeding control. These include protocols designed to stop acute heavy bleeding as well as manage long-term bleeding. Recent publications describe a variety of protocols using high dose oral progestin pills with or without a medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) injection that demonstrate high effectiveness and good tolerability. Comparted to many other progestins, MPA is not converted in part into ethinyl estradiol and appears to have a progestin-only advantage. Norethindrone acetate (NET acetate) is converted in part to ethinyl estradiol and therefore is an especially good option for bleeding control in patients with low estrogen levels that would benefit from estrogen replacement (such as in premenopausal women with premature menopause or hypothalamic hypogonadism).
Metabolism of human pluripotent stem cells and differentiated cells for regenerative therapy: a focus on cardiomyocytes
Authors: Tanosaki Sho , Tohyama Shugo , Kishino Yoshikazu , Fujita Jun , Fukuda Keiichi
Published: February 2021

Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) exhibit promising application in regenerative therapy, drug discovery, and disease modeling. While several protocols for differentiating somatic cells from PSCs exist, their use is limited by contamination of residual undifferentiated PSCs and immaturity of differentiated somatic cells.

The metabolism of PSCs differs greatly from that of somatic cells, and a distinct feature is required to sustain the distinct properties of PSCs. To date, several studies have reported on the importance of metabolism in PSCs and their derivative cells. Here, we detail advancements in the field, with a focus on cardiac regenerative therapy.
Predictors of the functional outcome after thrombolysis in an Egyptian patients’ sample
Authors: Eldeeb H. M. , Elsalamawy D. H. , Elabd A. M. , Abdelraheem H. S.
Published: February 2021

Background

About 6.2 million individuals worldwide and approximately 200 Egyptians/100,000 citizens have cerebrovascular stroke annually, and only less than 1% of stroke patients received intravenous (IV) thrombolysis in 2014. Outcome of the ischemic stroke after IV thrombolysis varies, and there is lack of data about the predicting factors that contributes to the outcome of ischemic strokes after IV thrombolysis in Egypt.

Objective

The aim of this work is to study the predictors of the functional outcome of ischemic cerebrovascular stroke after IV thrombolysis in Egyptian patients.

Patients and methods

This is a prospective study that includes acute ischemic stroke patients who received IV thrombolysis at the Alexandria University Hospital during the year from February 2017 to February 2018, and they were evaluated initially by Rapid Arterial Occlusion Evaluation (RACE) scale and followed-up serially for 6 months after thrombolysis using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and modified ranking score (mRS).

Results

Forty-five patients are included; 56% had favorable functional outcome (mRS 0–2) after 6 months, 68% had ≥ 4 points improvement in NIHSS after 6 months, and 13% had hemorrhagic conversion with 18% mortality rate. High initial RACE scale and long hospital stay are associated with poor functional outcome 6 months after thrombolysis.

Conclusion

Stroke severity demonstrated by high initial RACE and the duration of hospital stay are the two most significant predictors with an impact on the functional outcome of ischemic cerebrovascular stroke after thrombolysis.
The association between C-reactive protein, mood disorder, and cognitive function in UK Biobank
Authors: Milton David C. , Ward Joey , Ward Emilia , Lyall Donald M. , Strawbridge Rona J. , Smith Daniel J. , Cullen Breda
Published: February 2021

Background

Systemic inflammation has been linked with mood disorder and cognitive impairment. The extent of this relationship remains uncertain, with the effects of serum inflammatory biomarkers compared to genetic predisposition toward inflammation yet to be clearly established.

Methods

We investigated the magnitude of associations between C-reactive protein (CRP) measures, lifetime history of bipolar disorder or major depression, and cognitive function (reaction time and visuospatial memory) in 84,268 UK Biobank participants. CRP was measured in serum and a polygenic risk score for CRP was calculated, based on a published genome-wide association study. Multiple regression models adjusted for sociodemographic and clinical confounders.

Results

Increased serum CRP was significantly associated with mood disorder history (Kruskal–Wallis H = 196.06, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.002) but increased polygenic risk for CRP was not (F = 0.668, p = 0.648, η2 < 0.001). Compared to the lowest quintile, the highest serum CRP quintile was significantly associated with both negative and positive differences in cognitive performance (fully adjusted models: reaction time B = −0.030, 95% CI = −0.052, −0.008; visuospatial memory B = 0.066, 95% CI = 0.042, 0.089). More severe mood disorder categories were significantly associated with worse cognitive performance and this was not moderated by serum or genetic CRP level.

Conclusions

In this large cohort study, we found that measured inflammation was associated with mood disorder history, but genetic predisposition to inflammation was not. The association between mood disorder and worse cognitive performance was very small and did not vary by CRP level. The inconsistent relationship between CRP measures and cognitive performance warrants further study.
Randomized Phase II Study of 3 Months or 2 Years of Adjuvant Afatinib in Patients With Surgically Resected Stage I-III EGFR-Mutant Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Neal Joel W. , Costa Daniel B. , Muzikansky Alona , Shrager Joseph B. , Lanuti Michael , Huang James , Ramachandran Kavitha J. , Rangachari Deepa , Huberman Mark S. , Piotrowska Zofia , Kris Mark G. , Azzoli Christopher G. , Sequist Lecia V. , Chaft Jamie E.
Published: February 2021

PURPOSE

For patients with surgically resected disease, multiple studies suggest a benefit of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in delaying cancer recurrence. The necessary duration of therapy for benefit is unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This randomized phase II study enrolled patients with completely resected stage IA-IIIB EGFR-mutant non–small-cell lung cancer (American Joint Committee on Cancer 7th edition) after stage-appropriate standard-of-care adjuvant therapy. Patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to 3 months or 2 years of adjuvant afatinib starting at 30 mg by mouth daily. Computed tomography imaging was performed every 6 months for 3 years and then annually. The primary study end point for this planned 92-patient trial was recurrence rate at 2 years from randomization. A 20% improvement (from 70% with 3 months to 90% with 2 years) was targeted.

RESULTS

Forty-six patients enrolled and 45 were treated. The assigned course of afatinib treatment was completed by 96% (22/23) of patients in the 3-month group and only 41% (9/22) in the 2-year group. The 2-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates were 70% in the 3-month group and 81% in the 2-year group ( P = .55). The median RFS was 42.8 months in the 3-month group and 58.6 months in the 2-year group. Side effects were consistent with those previously described for afatinib.

CONCLUSION

Recurrences at 2 years were 11% less common with 2 years versus 3 months of adjuvant afatinib. This difference did not meet the 20% primary study target, likely because of underaccrual and early drug discontinuation on the 2-year group. With the availability of osimertinib with better efficacy and tolerability than earlier-generation agents, the optimal duration of adjuvant EGFR TKI therapy remains an important question.
Neurokinin 3 Receptor Antagonism Ameliorates Key Metabolic Features in a Hyperandrogenic PCOS Mouse Model
Authors: Sucquart Irene E , Nagarkar Ruchi , Edwards Melissa C , Rodriguez Paris Valentina , Aflatounian Ali , Bertoldo Michael J , Campbell Rebecca E , Gilchrist Robert B , Begg Denovan P , Handelsman David J , Padmanabhan Vasantha , Anderson Richard A , Walters Kirsty A
Published: February 2021

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine condition characterized by a range of endocrine, reproductive, and metabolic abnormalities. At present, management of women with PCOS is suboptimal as treatment is only symptomatic. Clinical and experimental advances in our understanding of PCOS etiology support a pivotal role for androgen neuroendocrine actions in PCOS pathogenesis. Hyperandrogenism is a key PCOS trait and androgen actions play a role in regulating the kisspeptin-/neurokinin B-/dynorphin (KNDy) system. This study aimed to investigate if targeted antagonism of neurokinin B signaling through the neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) would reverse PCOS traits in a dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced mouse model of PCOS. After 3 months, DHT exposure induced key reproductive PCOS traits of cycle irregularity and ovulatory dysfunction, and PCOS-like metabolic traits including increased body weight; white and brown fat pad weights; fasting serum triglyceride and glucose levels, and blood glucose incremental area under the curve. Treatment with a NK3R antagonist (MLE4901) did not impact the observed reproductive defects. In contrast, following NK3R antagonist treatment, PCOS-like females displayed decreased total body weight, adiposity, and adipocyte hypertrophy, but increased respiratory exchange ratio, suggesting NK3R antagonism altered the metabolic status of the PCOS-like females. NK3R antagonism did not improve circulating serum triglyceride or fasted glucose levels. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that NK3R antagonism may be beneficial in the treatment of adverse metabolic features associated with PCOS and support neuroendocrine targeting in the development of novel therapeutic strategies for PCOS.
Macrophage Responses to Environmental Stimuli During Homeostasis and Disease
Authors: Rasheed Adil , Rayner Katey J
Published: February 2021

Work over the last 40 years has described macrophages as a heterogeneous population that serve as the frontline surveyors of tissue immunity. As a class, macrophages are found in almost every tissue in the body and as distinct populations within discrete microenvironments in any given tissue. During homeostasis, macrophages protect these tissues by clearing invading foreign bodies and/or mounting immune responses. In addition to varying identities regulated by transcriptional programs shaped by their respective environments, macrophage metabolism serves as an additional regulator to temper responses to extracellular stimuli. The area of research known as “immunometabolism” has been established within the last decade, owing to an increase in studies focusing on the crosstalk between altered metabolism and the regulation of cellular immune processes. From this research, macrophages have emerged as a prime focus of immunometabolic studies, although macrophage metabolism and their immune responses have been studied for centuries. During disease, the metabolic profile of the tissue and/or systemic regulators, such as endocrine factors, become increasingly dysregulated. Owing to these changes, macrophage responses can become skewed to promote further pathophysiologic changes. For instance, during diabetes, obesity, and atherosclerosis, macrophages favor a proinflammatory phenotype; whereas in the tumor microenvironment, macrophages elicit an anti-inflammatory response to enhance tumor growth. Herein we have described how macrophages respond to extracellular cues including inflammatory stimuli, nutrient availability, and endocrine factors that occur during and further promote disease progression.
Aristotle, Buddhist scripture and embryology in ancient Mexico: building inclusion by re-thinking what counts as the history of developmental biology
Authors: Wallingford John B.
Published: February 2021

It has not gone unnoticed in recent times that historical writing about science is heavily Eurocentric. A striking example can be found in the history of developmental biology: textbooks and popular science writing frequently trace an intellectual thread from the Greek philosopher Aristotle through 19th century embryology to 20th century genetics. Few in our field are aware of the depth and breadth of early embryological thinking outside of Europe. Here, I provide a series of vignettes highlighting the rich history of embryological thinking in Asia and Latin America. My goal is to provide an entertaining, even provocative, synopsis of this important but under-studied topic. It is my hope that this work will spur others to carry out more thorough investigations, with the ultimate goal of building a more inclusive discipline.
Golgi localization of the LIN-2/7/10 complex points to a role in basolateral secretion of LET-23 EGFR in the Caenorhabditis elegans vulval precursor cells
Authors: Gauthier Kimberley D. , Rocheleau Christian E.
Published: February 2021

The evolutionarily conserved LIN-2 (CASK)/LIN-7 (Lin7A-C)/LIN-10 (APBA1) complex plays an important role in regulating spatial organization of membrane proteins and signaling components. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the complex is essential for the development of the vulva by promoting the localization of the sole Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ortholog LET-23 to the basolateral membrane of the vulva precursor cells where it can specify the vulval cell fate. To understand how the LIN-2/7/10 complex regulates receptor localization, we determined its expression and localization during vulva development. We found that LIN-7 colocalizes with LET-23 EGFR at the basolateral membrane, whereas the LIN-2/7/10 complex colocalizes with LET-23 EGFR at cytoplasmic punctae that mostly overlap with the Golgi. Furthermore, LIN-10 recruits LIN-2, which in turn recruits LIN-7. We demonstrate that the complex forms in vivo with a particularly strong interaction and colocalization between LIN-2 and LIN-7, consistent with them forming a subcomplex. Thus, the LIN-2/7/10 complex forms on the Golgi on which it likely targets LET-23 EGFR trafficking to the basolateral membrane rather than functioning as a tether.
Distinct epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions induced by PIK3CAH1047R and PIK3CB
Authors: Gjelaj Ersa , Hamel Paul A.
Published: February 2021

The most common PIK3CA mutation, producing the H1047R mutant of p110α, arises in myriad malignancies and is typically observed in low-grade breast tumours. In contrast, amplification is observed for wild-type PIK3CB, encoding p110β, and occurs at low frequency but in aggressive, high-grade metastatic tumours. We hypothesized that mutant p110αH1047R and wild-type p110β give rise to distinct transformed phenotypes. We show that p110αH1047R and wild-type p110β, but not wild-type p110α, transform MCF-10A cells and constitutively stimulate phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT pathway signalling. However, their resultant morphological transformed phenotypes are distinct. p110αH1047R induced an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) commensurate with SNAIL (also known as SNAI1) induction and loss of E-cadherin. Upon p110β expression, however, E-cadherin expression was maintained despite cells readily delaminating from epithelial sheets. Distinct from the prominent filopodia in p110αH1047R-expressing cells, p110β induced formation of lamellipodia, and these cells migrated with significantly greater velocity and decreased directionality. p110β-induced phenotypic alterations were accompanied by hyperactivation of RAC1; the dependency of transformation of p110β-binding to Rac1 revealed using a Rac1-binding mutant of p110β. Thus, PIK3CB amplification induces a transformed phenotype that is dependent upon a p110β-Rac1 signalling loop and is distinct from the transformed phenotype induced by p110αH1047R.
The role of icIL-1RA in keratinocyte senescence and development of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype
Authors: Niklander Sven E. , Crane Hannah L. , Darda Lav , Lambert Daniel W. , Hunter Keith D.
Published: February 2021

There is compelling evidence that senescent cells, through the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), can promote malignant transformation and invasion. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a key mediator of this cytokine network, but the control of its activity in the senescence programme has not been elucidated. IL-1 signalling is regulated by IL-1RA, which has four variants. Here, we show that expression of intracellular IL-1RA type 1 (icIL-1RA1), which competitively inhibits binding of IL-1 to its receptor, is progressively lost during oral carcinogenesis ex vivo and that the pattern of expression is associated with keratinocyte replicative fate in vitro. We demonstrate that icIL-1RA1 is an important regulator of the SASP in mortal cells, as CRISPR/Cas9-mediated icIL-1RA1 knockdown in normal and mortal dysplastic oral keratinocytes is followed by increased IL-6 and IL-8 secretion, and rapid senescence following release from RhoA-activated kinase inhibition. Thus, we suggest that downregulation of icIL-1RA1 in early stages of the carcinogenesis process can enable the development of a premature and deregulated SASP, creating a pro-inflammatory state in which cancer is more likely to arise.
Activation of meiotic recombination by nuclear import of the DNA break hotspot-determining complex in fission yeast
Authors: Wintrebert Mélody , Nguyen Mai-Chi , Smith Gerald R.
Published: February 2021

Meiotic recombination forms crossovers important for proper chromosome segregation and offspring viability. This complex process involves many proteins acting at each of the multiple steps of recombination. Recombination initiates by formation of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), which in the several species examined occur with high frequency at special sites (DSB hotspots). In Schizosaccharomyces pombe, DSB hotspots are bound with high specificity and strongly activated by linear element (LinE) proteins Rec25, Rec27 and Mug20, which form colocalized nuclear foci with Rec10, essential for all DSB formation and recombination. Here, we test the hypothesis that the nuclear localization signal (NLS) of Rec10 is crucial for coordinated nuclear entry after forming a complex with other LinE proteins. In NLS mutants, all LinE proteins were abundant in the cytoplasm, not the nucleus; DSB formation and recombination were much reduced but not eliminated. Nuclear entry of limited amounts of Rec10, apparently small enough for passive nuclear entry, can account for residual recombination. LinE proteins are related to synaptonemal complex proteins of other species, suggesting that they also share an NLS, not yet identified, and undergo protein complex formation before nuclear entry.

This article has an associated First Person interview with Mélody Wintrebert, joint first author of the paper.
Adenine nucleotide translocase regulates airway epithelial metabolism, surface hydration and ciliary function
Authors: Kliment Corrine R. , Nguyen Jennifer M. K. , Kaltreider Mary Jane , Lu YaWen , Claypool Steven M. , Radder Josiah E. , Sciurba Frank C. , Zhang Yingze , Gregory Alyssa D. , Iglesias Pablo A. , Sidhaye Venkataramana K. , Robinson Douglas N.
Published: February 2021

Airway hydration and ciliary function are critical to airway homeostasis and dysregulated in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is impacted by cigarette smoking and has no therapeutic options. We utilized a high-copy cDNA library genetic selection approach in the amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum to identify genetic protectors to cigarette smoke. Members of the mitochondrial ADP/ATP transporter family adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) are protective against cigarette smoke in Dictyostelium and human bronchial epithelial cells. Gene expression of ANT2 is reduced in lung tissue from COPD patients and in a mouse smoking model, and overexpression of ANT1 and ANT2 resulted in enhanced oxidative respiration and ATP flux. In addition to the presence of ANT proteins in the mitochondria, they reside at the plasma membrane in airway epithelial cells and regulate airway homeostasis. ANT2 overexpression stimulates airway surface hydration by ATP and maintains ciliary beating after exposure to cigarette smoke, both of which are key functions of the airway. Our study highlights a potential for upregulation of ANT proteins and/or of their agonists in the protection from dysfunctional mitochondrial metabolism, airway hydration and ciliary motility in COPD.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Different protein metabolic strategies for growth during food-induced physiological plasticity in echinoid larvae
Authors: Ellison Aimee , Pouv Amara , Pace Douglas A.
Published: February 2021

Food-induced morphological plasticity, a type of developmental plasticity, is a well-documented phenomenon in larvae of the echinoid echinoderm, Dendraster excentricus. A recent study in our lab has shown that this morphological plasticity is associated with significant physiological plasticity for growth. The goal of the current study was to measure several aspects of protein metabolism in larvae growing at different rates to understand the mechanistic basis for this physiological growth plasticity. Larvae of D. excentricus were fed rations of 1000 algal cells ml−1 (low-fed larvae) or 10,000 algal cells ml−1 (high-fed larvae). Relative protein growth rate was 6.0 and 12.2% day−1 for low- and high-fed larvae, respectively. The energetic cost of protein synthesis was similar for the two treatments at 4.91 J mg−1 protein synthesized. Larvae in both treatments used about 50% of their metabolic energy production to fuel protein synthesis. Mass-specific rates of protein synthesis were also similar. Large differences in mass-specific rates of protein degradation were observed. Low-fed larvae had relatively low rates of degradation early in development that increased with larval age, surpassing those of high-fed larvae at 20 days post-fertilization. Changes in protein depositional efficiency during development were similar to those of larval growth efficiency, indicating that differences in protein metabolism are largely responsible for whole-organism growth plasticity. Low-fed larvae also had alanine transport rates that were 2 times higher than those of high-fed larvae. In total, these results provide an explanation for the differences in growth efficiency between low- and high-fed larvae and allow for a more integrated understanding of developmental plasticity in echinoid larvae.
Sex-specific energy management strategies in response to training for increased foraging effort prior to reproduction in captive zebra finches
Authors: Yap Kang Nian , Powers Donald R. , Vermette Melissa L. , Tsai Olivia Hsin-I. , Williams Tony D.
Published: February 2021

Free-living animals often engage in behaviour that involves high rates of workload and results in high daily energy expenditure (DEE), such as reproduction. However, the evidence for elevated DEE accompanying reproduction remains equivocal. In fact, many studies have found no difference in DEE between reproducing and non-reproducing females. One of the hypotheses explaining the lack of difference is the concept of an ‘energetic ceiling’. However, it is unclear whether the lack of increase in energy expenditure is due to the existence of an energetic ceiling and/or compensation by males during parental care. To investigate whether an energetic ceiling exists, we experimentally manipulated foraging effort in captive zebra finches, Taeniopygia guttata, creating two groups with high and low foraging efforts followed by both groups breeding in the low foraging effort common garden condition. DEE was measured in both sexes throughout the experiment. We show sex-specific energy management strategies in response to training for increased foraging effort prior to reproduction. Specifically, males and females responded differently to the high foraging effort treatment and subsequently to chick rearing in terms of energy expenditure. Our results also suggest that there is an energetic ceiling in females and that energetic costs incurred prior to reproduction can be carried over into subsequent stages of reproduction in a sex-specific manner.
Angling gear avoidance learning in juvenile red sea bream: evidence from individual-based experiments
Authors: Takahashi Kohji , Masuda Reiji
Published: February 2021

Angling gear avoidance learning is a possible factor that contributes to the vulnerability of caught-and-released fish to angling. Whereas past studies suggested angling gear avoidance learning, they were based on large-scale experiments on groups of fish and unable to verify learning accurately. Details of avoidance learning are also unclear. The present study investigated angling gear avoidance learning through a series of individual-based experiments using red sea bream (Pagrus major) juveniles. Fish avoided angling gear after only one or two catches while showing feeding motivation for pellets, representing avoidance learning for angling gear. Most of the experienced fish avoided krill attached to a fishing line, but not krill alone or pellets presented near the angling gear. Experienced fish were less vulnerable to angling than control fish. Approximately half of the experienced fish kept the memory of angling gear 2 months after learning. The learning effect through the catch-and-release procedure would reduce catchability and the value of fishery-dependent stock assessments.
Neo-institutional approaches and primary research: The case study of EQUAL and LEADER local partnerships in Crete
Authors: Γρηγοριάδου (Despoina Grigoriadou) Δέσποινα
Published: February 2021

This book acknowledges and develops the role of neo-institutional theories in understanding and interpreting political phenomena. In particular, this neo-institutional study analyses the dynamic interaction between formal/informal rules and agents’ behaviour inside a political institution, examining these relationships through primary research on local partnerships in Greece.
The theoretical assumptions of this analysis derive mainly from normative neo-institutionalism but also include insights from rational choice and the historical institutionalism. Consideration is also given to sociological theories of the structure/agent duality along with concepts and empirical observations from the literature on urban governance, urban regimes, Europeanisation and political leadership.   
This interdisciplinary analysis stems epistemologically from the critical realism stance which acknowledges a reflexive approach to reality. This was also integrated into the research methodology with the implementation of an embedded case study strategy. The case study consists of two local partnerships in the region of Crete, which were established under the EU Community Initiatives Programmes EQUAL II and LEADER+ and coordinated by the Local Development Agency of Heraklion.
The research data reveal that the formal rules of the partnerships are not indicative of what actually happens. It is the configuration of formal and informal rules that offers a deep understanding of partnership. The research also shows the importance of agents' intentionality in the process of institutional change as well as the specific spatial and temporal context in which this institutional change takes place each time.
Left pedagogical thought in Greece (1910-1951). From the liberal progressive education to the polytechnism
Authors: Παπαστεφανάκη (Eleftheria Papastefanaki) Ελευθερία
Published: February 2021

This book concerns the process of birth and evolution of left pedagogical thought in Greece. This process was first based on the course of development and action of “Educational Association” and secondly on the course of development of the communist movement in Greece. Important moment for the birth of left-wing pedagogical thought will be the split of Educational Association in 1927 and the announcement of the Association’s governing committee after its critical meetings. Besides the above process, the birth and consolidation of KKE (Communist Party of Greece) will allow the emergence of a new qualitative political proposal and the formulation of an educational discourse inspired by pedagogical theory and practice in USSR. The 1940s and the Occupation and Civil War period will allow left educators to partially implement their pedagogical proposals in the context of left political power. Under particular circumstances, the vision of a “New Greece” under the general title of “Reconstruction” will include educational plans in a wider post-war rebuilding plan of the country. The culmination of this process will be the work of Antaios Journal.
Peritoneal dialysis in dogs and cats
Authors: VIȚALARU A. B.
Published: February 2021

Dialysis represents the separation process of a colloidal dispersion substance from molecular dispersion particles, based on the property of certain membranes to retain only colloidal particles. In veterinary medicine, the most common use for peritoneal dialysis is the therapy of acute kidney injury, although it can be employed for removing dialyzable toxins and treating pancreatitis, electrolyte disorders and acid-base imbalances, refractory congestive heart failure and metabolic congenital disorders. Peritoneal dialysis is contraindicated in patients with peritoneal adhesions, fibrosis or abdominal malignant tumours. The ideal catheter for dialysis allows for an adequate administration and evacuation of the dialysate, it determines minimum subcutaneous losses, it minimizes infection both in the peritoneal cavity and in the subcutaneous tissue. The placement method for peritoneal dialysis catheters depends on the catheter itself, on the patient and on the approximate duration of the dialysis. In cases of extreme emergency, when the peritoneal dialysis should not be used more than 72 hours, the placement of a short-term catheter is justified. The peritoneal dialysis system is placed immediately after the peritoneal dialysis catheter is inserted and attached to a closed collection system, being carefully prepped in place with dry sterile dressings. The ideal peritoneal dialysis solution should achieve the low absorption clearance of osmotic agents, provide missing or insufficient electrolytes and nutrients, correct acid-base imbalances, inhibit growth of microorganisms, and be inert with regard to the peritoneum. When initiating peritoneal dialysis in acute kidney injury, the main goal is not to immediately normalize uraemia. The initial objectives should be to normalize the hemodynamic status of the patient and the acid-base and electrolyte imbalances, as well as to reduce uraemia to a BUN of 60-100 mg/dl and to reach a creatinine of 4.0-6.0 mg/dl in 24-48 hours. Complications of peritoneal dialysis are common, but they can be easily managed if discovered or addressed in due time. The most common complications are: peritoneal catheter obstruction, electrolyte imbalances, hypoalbuminemia and bacterial peritonitis.
Colibacillosis in poultry: A disease overview and the new perspectives for its control and prevention
Authors: KOUTSIANOS D. , ATHANASIOU L. , MOSSIALOS D. , KOUTOULIS K. C.
Published: February 2021

Escherichia coli (E.coli) is a common bacterium that can be naturally found in the intestinal tract of birds and as a result in their environment. However, it can cause clinical disease called colibacillosis which is regarded as one of the most common and important diseases in poultry. Strains of E.coli that have the ability to cause clinical disease are described as Avian Pathogenic Escherichia Coli (APEC). Colibacillosis can affect birds of all ages and different types of poultry production including broiler and commercial layers and breeders. The ability of E.coli to cause colibacillosis is not always the same; that is why its role as primary or secondary pathogen triggered by various predisposing factors is contradictory and differs from case to case. Antibiotics have been used as the main tool against colibacillosis for many decades. However, the emergence of increased antibiotic resistance has posed the need of alternative treatment to colibacillosis as well as emphasizing on preventive measures to avoid disease. Τhe scope of this article is to assess recent scientific literature data on avian colibacillosis emphasizing on disease characteristics and recent data on prevention and control of the disease.
Etomidate anesthesia in chicks: Effect of xylazine
Authors: MOUSA Y.
Published: February 2021

The current study aimed to evaluate the etomidate anesthetic action, its toxicity profile and safety alone and to determine the benefit of xylazine coadministration to enhance its anesthetic duration, efficacy and to reach a state of balanced anesthesia in chicks. By using the up-and-down technique, it was found that the hypnotic Median Effective Dose (ED50) of the etomidate was 4.30 mg/kg, IM, whereas the acute Median Toxic Dose (TD50) was 17.90 mg/kg, IM in the chicks. In response, the calculated Therapeutic Index (TI) and Standard Safety Margin (SSM) indicate that the etomidate has a wide safety margin. Etomidate injection at 4, 8 and 16 mg/kg, IM yields a significant dose-response and dependent hypnosis in the chicks by evaluating the onset of the righting reflex loss, its period and regaining from it. The combination composed of etomidate and xylazine at 5 mg/kg, IM for each, reduced the onset of hypnosis and significantly distended its period besides a significant rise of the recovery time when compared with the group receiving etomidate alone. At the same time, this coadministered drugs elicited a significant raise in analgesic efficacy. Concerning plasma glucose, Alanine Transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate Transaminase (AST) concentrations, neither etomidate nor etomidate plus xylazine differ significantly from the control group. The results of this study propose the likelihood of using etomidate as an anesthetic agent for short surgical trials in the chickens that can be more effective by using xylazine to yield balanced anesthesia without causing significant side effects.
Effects of Alchemilla vulgaris on growth performance, carcass characteristics and some biochemical parameters of heat stressed broilers
Authors: KÖSEMAN A. , AKDEMIR F. , ÜREMIŞ N. , ŞEKER I. , TÜRKÖZ Y.
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Alchemilla vulgaris (A. vulgaris) on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and biochemical parameters in broilers exposed to high environmental temperature conditions. A total of 45 broilers of 21 days of age (Ross 308) were used and grouped as the control group (C), and the groups with the addition of 1% (G1), or 3% (G2) A. vulgaris to chicken diet, respectively. In this study, the body weights of heat stressed broilers were significantly different on the 35th day and onwards. Feed intake was higher in the control group. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was better in groups G1 and G2 compared to control on the 36th and 42nd day, the FCR was better on the 21st- 42nd days. The highest hot and cold carcass performance were observed in group G2 (79.72±0.93% and 78.02±0.99, respectively), and the lowest values were observed in group C (76.26±1.13% and 75.70±1.20%, respectively). A. vulgaris, reduced serum malondialdehyde (MDA) levels as numerically, and suppressed lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent manner. It had significant effects on monocytes (MON %, MON count), platelets (PLT), and plateletcrit (PCT) parameters only. In conclusion, the deleterious effects of high environmental temperature in broilers could be partially reversed by A. vulgaris addition to the diets between days 21 and 42.
Effect of GnRH treatment following a short-term estrous induction protocol on estrus and ovulation in Saanen goats, during the transitional period
Authors: DOGAN I. , TOKER M. B. , ALCAY S. , UDUM KUCUKSEN D.
Published: February 2021

The objective of this study was to compare the effect on the ovulation time and estrus parameters of a GnRH agonist (buserelin acetate) administered 24 or 36 h following a short-term estrus induction and synchronization treatment in non-lactating Saanen goats during the transitional period. Goats received 20 mg FGA sponges for 6 days plus 300 IU eCG and 125 μg d-cloprostenol 24 h prior to sponge removal. After removal of the sponges, goats were given either 1 ml physiological saline (0.9% NaCI) solution (Group1; n = 9) after 12 h, 0.004 mg GnRH (Group2; n = 10) after 24 h or 0.004 mg GnRH (Group3; n = 10) after 36 h. The follicle development and ovulation in the ovaries were monitored by transrectal ultrasonography starting from the sponge application until the fifth day of the estrus cycle. Blood samples were collected on the same days to determine the plasma concentrations of progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2). No statistical differences among groups were detected in any synchronization parameters, ultrasonic evaluations and plasma P4 and E2 concentrations. The evaluation of pooled data showed that the response of Saanen goats to treatments was comparable to the results of other published trials. Results of this study indicate that administration of GnRH at 24 h or 36 h after sponge removal, at the end of a short estrus induction and synchronization protocol, does not affect plasma P4 and E2 concentrations, estrus parameters and ovulation time in goats, during the transition period.
Elucidating the genetic architecture underlying IGF1 levels and its impact on genomic instability and cancer risk
Authors: Stankovic Stasa , R. Day Felix , Zhao Yajie , Langenberg Claudia , J. Wareham Nicholas ,   23andMe Research Team, R. B. Perry John , K. Ong Ken
Published: February 2021

Background: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF1) has been implicated in mitogenic and anti-apoptotic mechanisms that promote susceptibility to cancer development and growth. Previous epidemiological studies have described phenotypic associations between higher circulating levels of IGF1 in adults with higher risks for breast, prostate, ovarian, colorectal, melanoma and lung cancers. However, such evidence is prone to confounding and reverse causality. Furthermore, it is unclear whether IGF1 promotes only the survival and proliferation of cancerous cells, or also the malignant transformation of healthy cells.

Methods: We perform a genome-wide association study in 428,525 white European ancestry individuals in the UK Biobank study (UKBB) and identify 831 independent genetic determinants of circulating IGF1 levels, double the number previously reported.

Results: Collectively these signals explain ~7.5% of the variance in circulating IGF1 levels in EPIC-Norfolk, with individuals in the highest 10% of genetic risk exhibiting ~1 SD higher levels than those in the lowest 10%. Using a Mendelian randomization approach, we demonstrate that genetically higher circulating IGF1 levels are associated with greater likelihood of mosaic loss of chromosome Y in leukocytes in men in UKBB (OR per +1 SD = 1.038 (95% CI: 1.010-1.067), P=0.008) and 23andMe, Inc. (P=6.8×10-05), a biomarker of genomic instability involved in early tumorigenesis. Genetically higher IGF1 is also associated with higher risks for colorectal (OR = 1.126 (1.048-1.210), P=1.3×10-03) and breast cancer (OR= 1.075 (1.048-1.103), P=3.9×10-08), with similar effects on estrogen positive (ER+) (OR = 1.069 (1.037-1.102), P=2.3×10-05) and estrogen negative (ER-) (OR = 1.074 (1.025-1.125), P=3.9×10-08) subtypes.

Conclusions: These findings give an insight into the genetic regulation of circulating IGF1 levels and support a causal role for IGF1 in early tumorigenesis and risks for breast and colorectal cancers.
ЛИНГВОКРЕАТИВНЫЙ ПОТЕНЦИАЛ ИСПАНСКИХ И РУССКИХ ПАРЕМИЙ: СОПОСТАВИТЕЛЬНЫЙ АСПЕКТ
Authors: Litvinenko Tatiana Evgenievna
Published: February 2021

В статье анализируется проблема вариативности формы и содержания паремиологических высказываний в российском и испанском интернет-дискурсах.Цель. Работа направлена на выявление языковых механизмов порождения высказываний, восходящих к устойчивым единицам лингвокультуры, а также на интерпретацию понятийной структуры преобразованных паремий, возникающих при реализации коммуникантами креативной функции языка.Метод и методология проведения работы. В ходе исследования материала были использованы методы семантического, концептуального и интертекстуального анализа, осуществляемого в рамках сравнительно-сопоставительного изучения традиционных и новых паремий различных лингвокультур.Результаты. Анализ материала показал, что в большинстве случаев лингвокреативный потенциал единиц испанского и русского фразеофонда находит выражение в метафорическом сдвиге в когнитивной структуре паремий, в рекомбинации фреймовых компонентов отраженных ими ситуаций и в формировании новых ментальных образований (блендов), интегрирующих фрагменты моделей мира разных эпох. На знаково-семиотическом уровне такие выказывания квалифицируются как интертексты.Область применения результатов. Результаты и основные выводы статьи могут быть использованы в исследованиях, связанных с проблемами эволюции национального фразеофонда, влияния языка традиционной культуры на современные фольклорные жанры, а также с проблемами интернет-коммуникации, словесного творчества и интертекстуальности.
К ВОПРОСУ О ПЕРЕВОДЕ ПРОФЕССИОНАЛЬНЫХ ТЕРМИНОВ НА ЖЕСТОВЫЙ ЯЗЫК
Authors: Fayzullina Elmira Foatovna , Ilyicheva Tatyana Evgenievna
Published: February 2021

Статья посвящена проблеме перевода профессиональной терминологии на русский жестовый язык (РЖЯ). Предметом исследования выступают вопросы понимания юридических терминов людьми с нарушениями функции слуха, а также интерпретация смысла терминов сурдопереводчиками при переводе на жестовый язык. Авторы ставят целью сравнить оригинальные юридические тексты и конструкции, полученные путем перевода на РЖЯ, с точки зрения лексического значения и синтаксического наполнения.Материалы и методы. Материалом к проведенному исследованию послужили работы неслышащих специалистов по вопросам обучению жестовому языку как глухих детей, так интересующихся жестовой речью слышащих граждан. При подготовке статьи применялись социологический, статистический, документальный методы, сравнительно-сопоставительный анализ отдельных лексических единиц и синтаксических конструкций, теоретический анализ источников, позволивший сформулировать основные выводы.Результаты исследования. В статье дан анализ особенностей перевода профессиональных юридических терминов на русский жестовый язык, приведены примеры дословного перевода и интерпретации сурдопереводчика для облегчения понимания смысла того или иного термина или целой фразы глухими людьми, намечены дальнейшие пути по совершенствованию переводческой деятельности.Обсуждение и заключения. Авторы полагают, что благодаря всестороннему обсуждению проблем, встречающихся при переводе юридической терминологии на русский жестовый язык, выработке критериев или некоей схемы перевода, будет составлен тематический словарь юридических терминов для облегчения деятельности сурдопереводчиков в процессе профессиональной деятельности.
Anticonvulsants for alcohol withdrawal: A review of the evidence
Authors: Farheen Syeda Arshiya , Chhatlan Aarti , Tampi Rajesh R.
Published: February 2021

Several agents may be useful for treating mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms.
Gender and Sibling Dynamics in the Intergenerational Transmission of Entrepreneurship
Authors: Mishkin Elizabeth
Published: February 2021

This project uses gender and sibling dynamics to explore the intergenerational transmission of entrepreneurship. I find that the transmission of self-employment from fathers to daughters is significantly reduced when there are sons in the family. I interpret this as evidence that the intergenerational transmission of entrepreneurship is driven, at least in part, by costly investments by parents, which can be crowded out by or redirected toward brothers. I investigate specific types of parental investments—transfers of money, businesses, and human capital—that potentially underlie this transmission and conclude that sons reduce human-capital acquisition by daughters. If all daughters of self-employed men experienced the “sisters-only” level of transmission, the overall gender gap in self-employment would be reduced by roughly 15%.

This paper was accepted by Toby Stuart, entrepreneurship and innovation.
Plant-based diets in chronic kidney disease: what does the evidence say?
Authors: Gowda Niraj , Lee Ezra , Hynes Marijane
Published: February 2021

The prevention and treatment of chronic kidney disease can be managed not only with medical therapies, but also with dietary changes. Recent studies have shown that plant-based diets can slow disease progression and improve mortality