bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construct validity of the Post-COVID-19 Functional Status Scale in adult subjects with COVID-19
Authors: Machado Felipe V. C. , Meys Roy , Delbressine Jeannet M. , Vaes Anouk W. , Goërtz Yvonne M. J. , van Herck Maarten , Houben-Wilke Sarah , Boon Gudula J. A. M. , Barco Stefano , Burtin Chris , van ’t Hul Alex , Posthuma Rein , Franssen Frits M. E. , Spies Yvonne , Vijlbrief Herman , Pitta Fabio , Rezek Spencer A. , Janssen Daisy J. A. , Siegerink Bob , Klok Frederikus A. , Spruit Martijn A.
Published: February 2021

Background

An increasing number of subjects are recovering from COVID-19, raising the need for tools to adequately assess the course of the disease and its impact on functional status. We aimed to assess the construct validity of the Post-COVID-19 Functional Status (PCFS) Scale among adult subjects with confirmed and presumed COVID-19.

Methods

Adult subjects with confirmed and presumed COVID-19, who were members of an online panel and two Facebook groups for subjects with COVID-19 with persistent symptoms, completed an online survey after the onset of infection-related symptoms. The number and intensity of symptoms were evaluated with the Utrecht Symptom Diary, health-related quality of life (HrQoL) with the 5-level EQ-5D questionnaire, impairment in work and activities with the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaire and functional status with the PCFS Scale.

Results

1939 subjects were included in the analyses (85% women, 95% non-hospitalized during infection) about 3 months after the onset of infection-related symptoms. Subjects classified as experiencing ‘slight’, ‘moderate’ and ‘severe’ functional limitations presented a gradual increase in the number/intensity of symptoms, reduction of HrQoL and impairment in work and usual activities. No differences were found regarding the number and intensity of symptoms, HrQoL and impairment in work and usual activities between subjects classified as experiencing ‘negligible’ and ‘no’ functional limitations. We found weak-to-strong statistical associations between functional status and all domains of HrQoL (r: 0.233–0.661). Notably, the strongest association found was with the ‘usual activities’ domain of the 5-level EQ-5D questionnaire.

Conclusion

We demonstrated the construct validity of the PCFS Scale in highly-symptomatic adult subjects with confirmed and presumed COVID-19, 3 months after the onset of symptoms.
Automated tooth segmentation as an innovative tool to assess 3D-tooth movement and root resorption in rodents
Authors: Trelenberg-Stoll Viktoria , Drescher Dieter , Wolf Michael , Becker Kathrin
Published: February 2021

Background

Orthodontic root resorptions are frequently investigated in small animals, and micro-computed tomography (μCT) enables volumetric comparison. Despite, due to overlapping histograms from dentine and bone, accurate quantification of root resorption is challenging. The present study aims at (i) validating a novel automated approach for tooth segmentation (ATS), (ii) to indicate that matching of contralateral teeth is eligible to assess orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) and root resorption (RR), (iii) and to apply the novel approach in an animal trial performing orthodontic tooth movement.

Methods

The oral apparatus of three female mice were scanned with a μCT. The first molars of each jaw and animal were segmented using ATS (test) and manually (control), and contralateral volumes were compared. Agreement in root volumes and time efficiency were assessed for method validation. In another n = 14 animals, the left first upper molar was protracted for 11 days at 0.5 N, whereas the contralateral molar served as control. Following ATS, OTM and RR were estimated.

Results

ATS was significantly more time efficient compared to the manual approach (81% faster, P < 0.01), accurate (volume differences: − 0.01 ± 0.04 mm3), and contralateral roots had comparable volumes. Protracted molars had significantly lower root volumes (P = 0.03), whereas the amount of OTM failed to reveal linear association with RR (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Within the limits of the study, it was demonstrated that the combination of ATS and registration of contralateral jaws enables measurements of OTS and associated RR in μCT scans.
Genome-wide DNA methylation dynamics during epigenetic reprogramming in the porcine germline
Authors: Gómez-Redondo Isabel , Planells Benjamín , Cánovas Sebastián , Ivanova Elena , Kelsey Gavin , Gutiérrez-Adán Alfonso
Published: February 2021

Background

Prior work in mice has shown that some retrotransposed elements remain substantially methylated during DNA methylation reprogramming of germ cells. In the pig, however, information about this process is scarce. The present study was designed to examine the methylation profiles of porcine germ cells during the time course of epigenetic reprogramming.

Results

Sows were artificially inseminated, and their fetuses were collected 28, 32, 36, 39, and 42 days later. At each time point, genital ridges were dissected from the mesonephros and germ cells were isolated through magnetic-activated cell sorting using an anti-SSEA-1 antibody, and recovered germ cells were subjected to whole-genome bisulphite sequencing. Methylation levels were quantified using SeqMonk software by performing an unbiased analysis, and persistently methylated regions (PMRs) in each sex were determined to extract those regions showing 50% or more methylation. Most genomic elements underwent a dramatic loss of methylation from day 28 to day 36, when the lowest levels were shown. By day 42, there was evidence for the initiation of genomic re-methylation. We identified a total of 1456 and 1122 PMRs in male and female germ cells, respectively, and large numbers of transposable elements (SINEs, LINEs, and LTRs) were found to be located within these PMRs. Twenty-one percent of the introns located in these PMRs were found to be the first introns of a gene, suggesting their regulatory role in the expression of these genes. Interestingly, most of the identified PMRs were demethylated at the blastocyst stage.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that methylation reprogramming in pig germ cells follows the general dynamics shown in mice and human, unveiling genomic elements that behave differently between male and female germ cells.
Successful nonoperative management by endoscopic and percutaneous drainage for penetrating pancreatic duct injury: a case report
Authors: Kanno Hiroki , Hirakawa Yusuke , Yasunaga Masafumi , Midorikawa Ryuta , Taniwaki Shinichi , Uchino Yoshihiro , Sasaki Shin , Kojima Satoki , Nomura Yoriko , Nakayama Goichi , Goto Yuichi , Sato Toshihiro , Kawahara Ryuichi , Sakai Hisamune , Ishikawa Hiroto , Hisaka Toru , Okuda Koji
Published: February 2021

Background

Pancreatic trauma is a rare condition with a wide presentation, ranging from hematoma or laceration without main pancreatic duct involvement, to massive destruction of the pancreatic head. The optimal diagnosis of pancreatic trauma and its management approaches are still under debate. The East Association of Surgery for Trauma (EAST) guidelines recommend operative management for high-grade pancreatic trauma; however, several reports have reported successful outcomes with nonoperative management (NOM) for grade III/IV pancreatic injuries. Herein, we report a case of grade IV pancreatic injury that was nonoperatively managed through endoscopic and percutaneous drainage.

Case presentation

A 47-year-old Japanese man was stabbed in the back with a knife; upon blood examination, both serum amylase and lipase levels were within normal limits. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) showed extravasation of the contrast medium around the pancreatic head and a hematoma behind the pancreas. Abdominal arterial angiography revealed a pseudo aneurysm in the inferior pancreatoduodenal artery, as well as extravasation of the contrast medium in that artery; coil embolization was thus performed. On day 12, CT revealed a wedge-shaped, low-density area in the pancreatic head, as well as consecutive pseudocysts behind the pancreas; thereafter, percutaneous drainage was performed via the stab wound. On day 22, contrast radiography through the percutaneous drain revealed the proximal and distal parts of the main pancreatic duct. The injury was thus diagnosed as a grade IV pancreatic injury based on the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma guidelines. On day 26, an endoscopic nasopancreatic drainage tube was inserted across the disruption; on day 38, contrast-enhanced CT showed a marked reduction in the fluid collection. Finally, on day 61, the patient was discharged.

Conclusions

Although the EAST guidelines recommend operative treatment for high-grade pancreatic trauma, NOM with appropriate drainage by endoscopic and/or percutaneous approaches may be a promising treatment for grade III or IV trauma.
Cell-free fat extract promotes tissue regeneration in a tissue expansion model
Authors: Deng Mingwu , Wang Xiangsheng , Yu Ziyou , Cai Yizuo , Liu Wei , Zhou Guangdong , Wang Xiansong , Yu Zheyuan , Li Wei , Zhang Wen Jie
Published: February 2021

Background

Tissue expansion techniques play an important role in plastic surgery. How to improve the quality of the expanded skin and shorten the expansion period are still worth investigating. Our previous studies found that a cell-free fat extract (CEFFE) possessed pro-angiogenic and pro-proliferative activities. However, the role of CEFFE on tissue expansion has remained unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of CEFFE on tissue expansion.

Methods

A rat tissue expansion model was used. Animals were treated with CEFFE by subcutaneous injection. After 4 weeks of tissue expansion, the skin necrosis and retraction rates were evaluated, the thicknesses of the epidermis and dermis were determined by histological analyses, blood vessel density was measured by anti-CD31 staining, cell proliferation was assessed by proliferating cell nuclear antigen staining, and the expression of specific proteins was evaluated by western blot analyses. In addition, the effects of CEFFE on the proliferation and cell cycle of cultured HaCaT cells were evaluated in vitro.

Results

CEFFE treatment significantly decreased the necrosis rate and retraction of the expanded skin. The thickness of the epidermal and dermal layers was higher in CEFFE-treated compared to untreated skin. The density of blood vessels and cell proliferation in the epidermis of the expanded skin was improved by CEFFE treatment. In addition, CEFFE treatment significantly increased the expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor, collagen type 1, and collagen type 3. CEFFE also increased the proliferation of HaCaT cells in culture.

Conclusions

CEFFE improves the quality of the expanded skin by promoting angiogenesis and cell proliferation. It could be potentially used clinically for augmenting tissue expansion.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapeutic applications on sleep and insomnia: a review
Authors: Oroz Ricardo , Kung Simon , Croarkin Paul E. , Cheung Joseph
Published: February 2021

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a neuromodulatory technique approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. It works by generating localized magnetic fields that create depolarizing electrical currents in neurons a few centimeters below the scalp. This localized effect is believed to stimulate neural plasticity, activate compensatory processes, and influence cortical excitability. Additionally, rTMS has been used in a variety of clinical trials for neurological and psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and epilepsy. Beneficial effects in sleep parameters have been documented in these trials, as well as in major depressive disorder, and have led to an interest in using rTMS in the field of sleep medicine for specific disorders such as insomnia, hypersomnia, and restless legs syndrome. It is unknown whether rTMS has intrinsically beneficial properties when applied to primary sleep disorders, or if it only acts on sleep through mood disorders. This narrative review sought to examine available literature regarding the application of rTMS for sleep disorder to identify knowledge gaps and inform future study design. The literature in this area remains scarce, with few randomized clinical trials on rTMS and insomnia. Available studies have found mixed results, with some studies reporting subjective sleep improvement while objective improvement is less consistent. Due to the heterogeneity of results and the variations in rTMS protocols, no definitive conclusions have been reached, signaling the need for further research.
Antagonistic pattern of yeast species against some selected food-borne pathogens
Authors: Fadahunsi Ilesanmi Festus , Olubodun Simbo
Published: February 2021

Background

The efficiency of synthetic preservation in shelf life extension of food is well documented, but the hazardous side effects associated with it are posing serious threat to the food industry. Therefore, this present research work is aimed at determining the suitability of yeast metabolite as an alternative natural preservative agent of food.

Results

The results obtained revealed that seventy-three yeast isolates were obtained from the fruits and were identified as Candida pelliculosa, Kluyveromyces phaffii, Metschnikowia pulcherrima, Saccharomyces cerevisiae 001, Saccharomyces cerevisiae 002, Saccharomyces cerevisiae 003 and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and were confirmed safe. The highest production of lactic acid (3.6) and diacetyl (1.0 mg/ml) was recorded by Saccharomyces cerevisiae 001 and the best pH, temperature, sodium chloride concentration, carbon and nitrogen sources that stimulated maximum inhibitory activities of the yeast species against the food-borne pathogens were 4, 30 °C, 2–4%, glucose and skimmed milk, respectively. The lowest MIC and MBC values recorded were 3.125 ± 0.6 and 6.25 ± 0.26.25 ± 0.3 μg /ml, respectively.

Conclusion

The study confirmed that the combination of the yeast metabolites could be potentially used as bio-preservation in food.
Is methylmethacrylate toxic during pregnancy and breastfeeding?--- a systematic review
Authors: Lin James S. , Townsend Janice A. , Humbyrd Casey , Samora Julie Balch
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Methyl methacrylate (MMA) is commonly used in the fields of dentistry and orthopaedic surgery. However, there remain concerns for the occupational hazards of MMA, particularly during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of studies on effects that MMA may have in pregnancy in the context of exposure during orthopaedic surgery and dentistry. Review articles, studies lacking statistical data, single case reports and other evidence level V studies were excluded.

Results

Nine studies were included. One basic science study demonstrated an increase in neuronal cell lysis and shrunken cell bodies when neocortical neurons were exposed to MMA monomer. Three animal studies exposed pregnant rodents to MMA via intraperitoneal injection or inhalation. Exposed fetuses in two studies had an increase in gross abnormalities such as hemangiomas, while there was no increase in teratologic effects in the third study. In dental workers exposed to MMA, two retrospective cohort studies did not find a statistically significant increase in birth defects or miscarriage. After exposure to MMA during total joint arthroplasty, two studies found that MMA levels were undetectable in the mothers’ serum or breast milk. One study measuring the airborne levels of MMA during simulated joint arthroplasty found that concentrations never exceeded 1% of the recommended limit set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Conclusions

Potential teratologic effects of MMA cannot be excluded by existing evidence. However, the typical MMA exposure levels for dental and orthopaedic personnel appear to be substantially less than currently proposed exposure limits.
Effect of pioglitazone, as antidiabetic agent, on atheroma regression in type 2 diabetic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: AbdelMassih Antoine Fakhry , Ashraf Ahmed , Ismail Habiba-Allah , AbdelAzeim Bassant , Barsoum Ihab Hany , Girgis Shady , Afdal George , AbdelAzeim Nesrine , Afdal Peter , Menshawey Esraa , Menshawey Rahma , Badr Kirollos , Arsanyous Mariem
Published: February 2021

Background

Pioglitazone’s role in the induction of atheroma regression in diabetics was suggested by several RCT. The aim of our study was to evaluate this role through a systematic review of all RCT conducted on this subject.

Methods

Literature was searched for relevant studies. We included all RCT that compared pioglitazone versus other antidiabetic agents. Mean differences of either AV or CIMT, HbA1C, HDL, and LDL between the two groups were used to assess the effect of pioglitazone versus alternative therapies.

Results

Six RCT were included with a total of 1180 patients. Pioglitazone was significantly superior to glimepiride and gliclazide in improving IMT. No significant difference was observed in overall AV, HbA1C, and LDL.

Conclusion

The latter findings confirm that anti-atheroma action of pioglitazone is not achieved through its antiglycemic or antidyslipidemia effects, but probably through a DNA-mediated effect, and may lead to its repurposing for reversal of organ fibrosis.
The Age-Dependent Changes of the Human Adrenal Cortical Zones Are Not Congruent
Authors: Tezuka Yuta , Atsumi Nanako , Blinder Amy R , Rege Juilee , Giordano Thomas J , Rainey William E , Turcu Adina F
Published: February 2021

Background

While previous studies indicate that the zonae reticularis (ZR) and glomerulosa (ZG) diminish with aging, little is known about age-related transformations of the zona fasciculata (ZF).

Objectives

To investigate the morphological and functional changes of the adrenal cortex across adulthood, with emphasis on (i) the understudied ZF and (ii) sexual dimorphisms.

Methods

We used immunohistochemistry to evaluate the expression of aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2), visinin-like protein 1 (VSNL1), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II (HSD3B2), 11β-hydroxylase (CYP11B1), and cytochrome b5 type A (CYB5A) in adrenal glands from 60 adults (30 men), aged 18 to 86. Additionally, we employed mass spectrometry to quantify the morning serum concentrations of cortisol, 11-deoxycortisol (11dF), 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, 11-deoxycorticosterone, corticosterone, and androstenedione in 149 pairs of age- and body mass index–matched men and women, age 21 to 95 years.

Results

The total cortical area was positively correlated with age (r = 0.34, P = 0.008). Both the total (VSNL1-positive) and functional ZG (CYP11B2-positive) areas declined with aging in men (r = −0.57 and −0.67, P < 0.01), but not in women. The CYB5A-positive area declined with age in both sexes (r = −0.76, P < 0.0001). In contrast, the estimated ZF area correlated positively with age in men (r = 0.59, P = 0.0006) and women (r = 0.49, P = 0.007), while CYP11B1-positive area remained unchanged across ages. Serum cortisol, corticosterone, and 11-deoxycorticosterone levels were stable across ages, while 11dF levels increased slightly with age (r = 0.16, P = 0.007).

Conclusion

Unlike the ZG and ZR, the ZF and the total adrenal cortex areas enlarge with aging. An abrupt decline of the ZG occurs with age in men only, possibly contributing to sexual dimorphism in cardiovascular risk.
Modified-Release Hydrocortisone in Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: Merke Deborah P , Mallappa Ashwini , Arlt Wiebke , Brac de la Perriere Aude , Lindén Hirschberg Angelica , Juul Anders , Newell-Price John , Perry Colin G , Prete Alessandro , Rees D Aled , Reisch Nicole , Stikkelbroeck Nike , Touraine Philippe , Maltby Kerry , Treasure F Peter , Porter John , Ross Richard J
Published: February 2021

Context

Standard glucocorticoid therapy in congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) regularly fails to control androgen excess, causing glucocorticoid overexposure and poor health outcomes.

Objective

We investigated whether modified-release hydrocortisone (MR-HC), which mimics physiologic cortisol secretion, could improve disease control.

Methods

A 6-month, randomized, phase 3 study was conducted of MR-HC vs standard glucocorticoid, followed by a single-arm MR-HC extension study. Primary outcomes were change in 24-hour SD score (SDS) of androgen precursor 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) for phase 3, and efficacy, safety and tolerability of MR-HC for the extension study.

Results

The phase 3 study recruited 122 adult CAH patients. Although the study failed its primary outcome at 6 months, there was evidence of better biochemical control on MR-HC, with lower 17OHP SDS at 4 (P = .007) and 12 (P = .019) weeks, and between 07:00h to 15:00h (P = .044) at 6 months. The percentage of patients with controlled 09:00h serum 17OHP (< 1200 ng/dL) was 52% at baseline, at 6 months 91% for MR-HC and 71% for standard therapy (P = .002), and 80% for MR-HC at 18 months’ extension. The median daily hydrocortisone dose was 25 mg at baseline, at 6 months 31 mg for standard therapy, and 30 mg for MR-HC, and after 18 months 20 mg MR-HC. Three adrenal crises occurred in phase 3, none on MR-HC and 4 in the extension study. MR-HC resulted in patient-reported benefit including menses restoration in 8 patients (1 on standard therapy), and 3 patient and 4 partner pregnancies (none on standard therapy).

Conclusion

MR-HC improved biochemical disease control in adults with reduction in steroid dose over time and patient-reported benefit.
Body Composition Changes with Long-term Pegvisomant Therapy of Acromegaly
Authors: Kuker Adriana P , Shen Wei , Jin Zhezhen , Singh Simran , Chen Jun , Bruce Jeffrey N , Freda Pamela U
Published: February 2021

Context

In active acromegaly, the lipolytic and insulin antagonistic effects of growth hormone (GH) excess alter adipose tissue (AT) deposition, reduce body fat, and increase insulin resistance. This pattern reverses with surgical therapy. Pegvisomant treats acromegaly by blocking GH receptor (GHR) signal transduction and lowering insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels. The long-term effects of GHR antagonist treatment of acromegaly on body composition have not been studied.

Methods

We prospectively studied 21 patients with active acromegaly who were starting pegvisomant. Body composition was examined by whole body magnetic resonance imaging, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy of liver and muscle and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and endocrine and metabolic markers were measured before and serially during 1.0 to 13.4 years of pegvisomant therapy. The data of patients with acromegaly were compared with predicted and to matched controls.

Results

Mass of visceral AT (VAT) increased to a peak of 187% (1.56-229%) (P < .001) and subcutaneous AT (SAT) to 109% (–17% to 57%) (P = .04) of baseline. These remained persistently and stably increased, but did not differ from predicted during long-term pegvisomant therapy. Intrahepatic lipid rose from 1.75% to 3.04 % (P = .04). Although lean tissue mass decreased significantly, skeletal muscle (SM) did not change. IGF-1 levels normalized, and homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance and HbA1C were lowered.

Conclusion

Long-term pegvisomant therapy is accompanied by increases in VAT and SAT mass that do not differ from predicted, stable SM mass and improvements in glucose metabolism. Long-term pegvisomant therapy does not produce a GH deficiency-like pattern of body composition change.
Racial and Ethnic Differences in Metabolic Disease in Adolescents With Obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Andrisse Stanley , Garcia-Reyes Yesenia , Pyle Laura , Kelsey Megan M , Nadeau Kristen J , Cree-Green Melanie
Published: February 2021

Context

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is common and associated with metabolic syndrome. In the general population, metabolic disease varies by race and ethnicity.

Objective

This work aimed to examine in depth the interaction of race and ethnicity with PCOS-related metabolic disease in adolescent youth.

Methods

A secondary analysis was conducted of data from girls (age 12-21 years) with overweight or obesity (> 90 body mass index [BMI] percentile) and PCOS. Measurements included fasting hormone and metabolic measures, a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and magnetic resonance imaging for hepatic fat. Groups were categorized by race or ethnicity.

Results

Participants included 39 non-Hispanic White (NHW, age 15.7 ± 0.2 years; BMI 97.7 ± 0.2 percentile), 50 Hispanic (HW, 15.2 ± 0.3 years; 97.9 ± 0.3 percentile), and 12 non-Hispanic Black (NHB, 16.0 ± 0.6 years; 98.6 ± 0.4 percentile) adolescents. Hepatic markers of insulin resistance were worse in NHW, including lower sex hormone–binding globulin and higher triglycerides over high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TGs/HDL-C) ratio (P = .002 overall, HW vs NHB [P = .009] vs NHW [P = 0.020]), although homeostasis model assessment of estimated insulin resistance was worst in NHB (P = .010 overall, NHW vs NHB P = .014). Fasting and 2-hour OGTT glucose were not different between groups, although glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was lowest in NHW (overall P < .001, NHW 5.2 ± 0.3 vs HW 5.5 ± 0.3 P < .001 vs 5.7 ± 0.4%, P < .001). The frequency of hepatic steatosis (HW 62%, NHW 42%, NHB 25%, P = .032); low HDL-C < 40 mg/dL (HW 82%, NHW 61%, NHB 50%, P < .001) and prediabetes HbA1c 5.7% to 6.4% (NHB 50%, HW 36%, NHW 5%, P < .001) were different between the groups.

Conclusion

Adolescents with PCOS appear to show similar racial and ethnic variation to the general population in terms of metabolic disease components.
The 5-HT4 receptor interacts with adhesion molecule L1 to modulate morphogenic signaling in neurons
Authors: Sonnenberg Simon Bennet , Rauer Jonah , Göhr Christoph , Gorinski Nataliya , Schade Sophie Kristin , Abdel Galil Dalia , Naumenko Vladimir , Zeug André , Bischoff Stephan C. , Ponimaskin Evgeni , Guseva Daria
Published: February 2021

Morphological remodeling of dendritic spines is critically involved in memory formation and depends on adhesion molecules. Serotonin receptors are also implicated in this remodeling, though the underlying mechanisms remain enigmatic. Here, we uncovered a signaling pathway involving the adhesion molecule L1CAM (L1) and serotonin receptor 5-HT4 (5-HT4R, encoded by HTR4). Using Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) imaging, we demonstrated a physical interaction between 5-HT4R and L1, and found that 5-HT4R–L1 heterodimerization facilitates mitogen-activated protein kinase activation in a Gs-dependent manner. We also found that 5-HT4R–L1-mediated signaling is involved in G13-dependent modulation of cofilin-1 activity. In hippocampal neurons in vitro, the 5-HT4R–L1 pathway triggers maturation of dendritic spines. Thus, the 5-HT4R–L1 signaling module represents a previously unknown molecular pathway regulating synaptic remodeling.
Effect of density and species preferences on collective choices: an experimental study on maggot aggregation behaviours
Authors: Fouche Quentin , Hedouin Valery , Charabidze Damien
Published: February 2021

Collective decisions have been extensively studied in arthropods, but they remain poorly understood in heterospecific groups. This study was designed to (1) assess the collective behaviours of blow fly larvae (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in groups varying in density and species composition, and (2) relate them to the costs and benefits of aggregating on fresh or decomposed food. First, experiments testing conspecific groups of Lucilia sericata and Calliphora vicina larvae, two species feeding at the same time on fresh carcasses, demonstrated decreases in growth and survival on rotten beef liver compared with fresh liver. However, mixing species together reduced this adverse impact of decomposition by increasing the mass of emerged adults. Second, larval groups were observed in binary choice tests between fresh and rotten liver (i.e. optimal and sub-optimal food sources). The results showed that larvae interacted with each other and that these interactions influenced their food preferences. We observed that (1) larvae were able to collectively choose the optimal food, (2) their choice accuracy increased with larval density and (3) the presence of another species induced a reversal in larval preference towards rotten food. These results highlight the ubiquity of collective decision properties in gregarious insects. They also reveal an unexpected effect of interspecific association, suggesting the colonization of new resources through a developmental niche construction.
Feel the light: sight-independent negative phototactic response in octopus arms
Authors: Katz Itamar , Shomrat Tal , Nesher Nir
Published: February 2021

Controlling the octopus's flexible hyper-redundant body is a challenging task. It is assumed that the octopus has poor proprioception which has driven the development of unique mechanisms for efficient body control. Here we report on such a mechanism: a phototactic response of extraocular photoreception. Extraocular photoreception has been observed in many and diverse species. Previous research on cephalopods revealed that increased illumination on their skin evokes chromatophore expansion. Recently, the mechanism was investigated and has been termed ‘light-activated chromatophore expansion’ (LACE). In this work we show that in response to illumination, the arm tip reacts in a reflex-like manner, folding in and moving away from the light beam. We performed a set of behavioral experiments and surgical manipulations to elucidate and characterize this phototactic response. We found that in contrast to the local activation and control of LACE, the phototactic response is mediated by the brain, although it is expressed in a reflex-like pattern. Our research results and observations led us to propose that the phototaxis is a means for protecting the arms in an instinctive manner from potential daytime predators such as fish and crabs, that could identify the worm-like tips as food. Indeed, observations of the octopuses revealed that their arm tips are folded in during the daytime, whereas at night they are extended. Thus, the phototactic response might compensate for the octopus's poor proprioception by keeping their arms folded in illuminated areas, without the need to be aware of their state.
Parent-child signals identify candidate cancer driver genes
Authors: Ramsahai Emilie Ann , Tripathi Vrijesh , John Melford
Published: February 2021

Background: The DREAM Challenge evaluated methods to identify molecular pathways facilitating the detection of multiple genes affecting critical interactions and processes. Dysregulation of pathways by well-known driver genes is often found in the development and progression of cancer. We used the gene interaction networks provided and the scoring rounds to test disease module identification methods to nominate candidate driver genes in these modules.

Method: Our algorithm calculated the proportion of the whole network accessible in two steps from each node in a combined network, which was defined as a 2-reach gene value. Genes with high 2-reach values were used to form the center of star cover clusters. These clusters were assessed for significant modules. Within these modules we identified novel candidate driver genes, by considering the parent-child relationship of well-known driver genes. Disturbance to such driver genes or their upstream parents, can lead to disruption of highly regulated signals affecting the normal functions of cells. We explored these parents as a potential source for candidate driver genes.

Results:  An initial list of 57 candidate driver genes was identified from 13 significant modules. Analysis of the parent-child relationships of well-known driver genes in these modules prioritized PRKDC, YWHAB, GSK3B, and PPP1CB.

Conclusion: Our method incorporated the simple m-reach topology metric in disease module identification and its relationship with known driver genes to identify candidate genes. The four genes shortlisted have been highlighted in recent publications in the literature, which supports the need for further wet lab experimental investigation.
Monetary value of disability-adjusted life years lost from all causes in Mauritius in 2019
Authors: Musango Laurent , Nundoochan Ajoy , Van Wilder Philippe , Kirigia Joses Muthuri
Published: February 2021

Background: The Republic of Mauritius had a total of 422,567 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) from all causes in 2019. This study aimed to estimate the monetary value of DALYs lost in 2019 from all causes in Mauritius and those projected to be lost in 2030; and to estimate the monetary value of DALYs savings in 2030 if Mauritius were to attain the national targets related to five targets of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 on good health and well-being.

Methods: The human capital approach was used to monetarily value DALYs lost from 157 causes in 2019. The monetary value of DALYs lost in 2019 from each cause was calculated from the product of net gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in Mauritius and the number of DALYs lost from a specific cause. The percentage reductions implied in the SDG3 targets were used to project the monetary values of DALYs expected in 2030. The potential savings equal the monetary value of DALYs lost in 2019 less the monetary value of DALYs expected in 2030.

Results:  The DALYs lost in 2019 had a total monetary value of Int$ 9.46 billion and a mean value of Int$ 22,389 per DALY. Of this amount, 84.2% resulted from non-communicable diseases; 8.7% from communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional diseases; and 7.1% from injuries. Full attainment of national targets related to the five SDG3 targets would avert DALYs losses to the value of Int$ 2.4 billion.

Conclusions: Diseases and injuries cause a significant annual DALYs loss with substantive monetary value. Fully achieving the five SDG3 targets could save Mauritius nearly 8% of its total GDP in 2019. To achieve such savings, Mauritius needs to strengthen further the national health system, other systems that tackle the social determinants of health, and the national health research system.
Pooled testing conserves SARS-CoV-2 laboratory resources and improves test turn-around time: experience on the Kenyan Coast
Authors: Agoti Charles N. , Mutunga Martin , Lambisia Arnold W. , Kimani Domtila , Cheruiyot Robinson , Kiyuka Patience , Lewa Clement , Gicheru Elijah , Tendwa Metrine , Said Mohammed Khadija , Osoti Victor , Makale Johnstone , Tawa Brian , Odundo Calleb , Cheruiyot Wesley , Nyamu Wilfred , Gumbi Wilson , Mwacharo Jedidah , Nyamako Lydia , Otieno Edward , Amadi David , Thoya Janet , Karani Angela , Mugo Daisy , Musyoki Jennifer , Gumba Horace , Mwarumba Salim , M. Gichuki Bonface , Njuguna Susan , Riako Debra , Mutua Shadrack , Gitonga John N. , Sein Yiakon , Bartilol Brian , Mwangi Shaban J. , O. Omuoyo Donwilliams , M. Morobe John , de Laurent Zaydah R. , Bejon Philip , Ochola-Oyier Lynette Isabella , Tsofa Benjamin
Published: February 2021

Background. International recommendations for the control of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic emphasize the central role of laboratory testing for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiological agent, at scale. The availability of testing reagents, laboratory equipment and qualified staff are important bottlenecks to achieving this. Elsewhere, pooled testing (i.e. combining multiple samples in the same reaction) has been suggested to increase testing capacities in the pandemic period.

Methods. We discuss our experience with SARS-CoV-2 pooled testing using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on the Kenyan Coast.

Results. In mid-May, 2020, our RT-PCR testing capacity for SARS-CoV-2 was improved by ~100% as a result of adoption of a six-sample pooled testing strategy. This was accompanied with a concomitant saving of ~50% of SARS-CoV-2 laboratory test kits at both the RNA extraction and RT-PCR stages. However, pooled testing came with a slight decline of test sensitivity. The RT-PCR cycle threshold value (ΔCt) was ~1.59 higher for samples tested in pools compared to samples tested singly.

Conclusions. Pooled testing is a useful strategy to increase SARS-CoV-2 laboratory testing capacity especially in low-income settings.
Noun phrase in Enets
Authors: Shluinsky Andrey
Published: February 2021

The paper presents a corpus-based description of the noun phrase structure in Enets dealing with both Enets dialects – Forest Enets and Tundra Enets. An Enets noun phrase has six slots for modifiers: determiner, relative clause, possessor NP, numeral, adjective phrase, apposed NP. Determiners, relative clauses, and adjective phrases are subject to linear recursion, other modifiers are not. All modifiers precede the head NP. In Enets, there is no agreement between head noun and modifiers, but numerals have different patterns in the choice of head noun number form.

Kokkuvõte. Andrej Šluinski: Noomenifraas eenetsi keeles. Artikkel esitab korpuspõhise kirjelduse eenetsi keele noomenifraasi struktuurist mõlemas eenetsi keele murdes – metsaeenetsi ja tundraeenetsi. Eenetsi noomenifraasil on kuus täiendikohta: määratleja, relatiivlause, omajat väljendav NP, numeraal, omadussõnafraas, appositsiooniline NP. Määratlejad, relatiivlaused ja omadussõnafraasid alluvad lineaarsele rekursioonile, teised täiendid mitte. Kõik täiendid eelnevad põhisõnale. Eenetsi keeles puudub põhisõna ja täiendi ühilduvus, kui numeraalid nõuavad noomenifraasi põhisõnalt erinevaid arvuvorme.

Аннотация. Андрей Шлуинский: Именная группа в энецком языке. В статье представлено выполненное на материале корпуса текстов описание структуры именной группы в обоих диалектах энецкого языка – лесном тундровом. Энецкая именная группа содержит шесть позиций для модификаторов вершинного существительного: детерминатор, относительное предложение, именная группа посессора, числительное, группа прилагательного, соположенная именная группа. Детерминаторы, относительные предложения и группы прилагательного подлежат линейной рекурсии, в отличие от других модификаторов. Все модификаторы предшествуют вершинному существительному. В энецком языке отсутствует согласование между вершинным существительным и модификаторами, но представлены разные модели выбора числовой формы вершинного существительного в именных группах с числительными.
Sport-anthropological investigation on German male volleyball players of different performance classes and different game positions
Authors: Raschka Christoph , Dierer Corina
Published: February 2021

The present study deals with sports anthropological comparison of the physique of 28 male volleyball players from higher (n = 13) and lower (n= 13) game classes and different game positions. As a result, higher Parnell endomorphism values can be recognized in the lower classes. Vice versa, a tendency to significantly higher values was found in the higher game classes for body height, stylion height, gnathion height, tibia height, AKS index and ectomorphism according to Parnell. In the somatochart, the attackers were slightly more endomorphic, the minor attackers a little more mesomophic. The highclass players had higher ectomorphism values, the low-class players higher endomorphism values. In the constitutional typology according to Knussmann, the subjects were on average subleptomorphic and submacrosomic, according to Conrad rather hyperplastic and leptomorphic. In a follow-up study, the number of subjects should be increased to enable a differentiated analysis of game positions.
Pioneering embryological research at the Old Anatomical Theatre of the University of Tartu
Authors: Toomsalu Maie
Published: February 2021

The reopening of the University of Tartu (1802) fell into the period when the society’s needs for science and educated people were increasing rapidly. Universities became the most important research institutions, and their lecturers were not merely teachers but professional scientists. German higher education fostered ties with the most significant research centres of that time’s world. The current article views the pioneering embryological research done at the Old Anatomical Theatre, which has made the names of these scientists known in the whole world and brought honour and fame to the University of Tartu. The article describes the embryological studies by Karl Friedrich Burdach, Martin Heinrich Rathke, Carl Bogislaus Reichert, Ernst Reissner, Emil Woldermar Rosenberg, Carl Wilhelm von Kupffer, Arthur Boettcher (Böttcher), Karl Dietrich Barfurth, Maximilian Gustav Christian Carl Braun, August Antonius Rauber and Nikolai Czermak.
A study of body measurements of sporty and not sporty persons living in Pärnu county
Authors: Õun Kandela , Kirikal Kaisa
Published: February 2021

In 2019, a study was conducted on athletic activity among the inhabitants of Pärnu County. 1446 respondents aged 15–87 years participated in the study. The respondents were divided into two groups according to their athletic activity – respondents who are at least lightly active (named as SPORTY, n = 1244) and respondents with no sport activity (NOT SPORTY, n = 202). 41% of respondents had been engaged in physical activity for 10 years or more. A “not sporty” respondent is a person with a slight tendency to overweight, rather not satisfied with his/her health but quite satisfied with his/ her life and is short of time to work out but would like to engage in cycling, swimming or hiking. The “sporty” person’s body mass index is normal, and he/she has been engaged in sports for at least 10 years to achieve better physical fitness or well-being. He/she enjoys walking, cycling, or running. Women prefer group training; men prefer to train in the gym on their own. Respondents with more than five years of regular physical activity work out every week somewhat longer than others and, on average, a few hours more per week in summertime than in autumn and spring. Sporty respondents tend to be taller and of medium weight.
Stages of development of cardiology as an independent branch of medical science
Authors: Vol'nyagina A.
Published: February 2021

Cardiology (from the Greek. καρδία-heart and λογος-study) is an extensive branch of medicine that deals with the study of the human cardiovascular system. Cardiology is believed to have originated in Ancient Egypt around 3000 BC. Hippocrates first describes the structure of the heart as a muscular organ. Harvey was the first to experimentally prove the existence of blood circulation. Andreas Vesalius created the basic prerequisites for the subsequent discovery of pulmonary circulation. Malpighi published the results of observations on the structure of the lung, for the first time gave a description of capillary vessels. For the first time, the Italian researcher Gaspar Azeli reported on lymphatic vessels and their connection with blood vessels. Purkinje published research on specific muscle fibers that conduct arousal through the heart (Purkinje fibers), which initiated the study of its conducting system. Thanks to all these fundamental discoveries, by the beginning of the XIX century, cardiology had become an independent branch of medicine, which has its own methods of diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
Contribution of Academician M.V. Yanovsky and his scientific school in the development of domestic cardiology
Authors: Vol'nyagina A.
Published: February 2021

The middle of the 19th century is a period of rapid development of the domestic clinic of internal diseases. To the student of S.P.Botkin, academician M.V. Yanovsky and his school, clinical medicine owes a thorough study of the problem of peripheral circulation. To the clinic of M.V. Yanovsky, domestic medicine owes such an outstanding priority as the discovery of a sound method for determining blood pressure. M.V. Yanovsky gave a purposeful character to further research by N. S. Korotkov, as well as D.O. Krylov, G.F. blood pressure. The discovery made by NS Korotkov in 1905 was "accidental" (it is true that the discovery of the very method of auscultation by Laennek did not happen without the help of chance), and the comprehension of the facts and the theoretical substantiation of the method were the merit of MV Yanovsky. It was M.V. Yanovsky who managed to explain the phenomenon of increased blood pressure in case of circulatory failure (the so-called congestive hypertension).
Crowds, Lending, Machine, and Bias
Authors: Fu Runshan , Huang Yan , Singh Param Vir
Published: February 2021

Can machines outperform crowds in financial lending decisions? Using data from a crowd-lending platform, we show that, compared with portfolios created by crowds, a reasonably sophisticated machine can construct financial portfolios that provide better returns while controlling for risk. Further, we find that the machine-created portfolios benefit not only the lenders, but also the borrowers. Borrowers receive loans at a much lower interest rate as the machine can weed out the riskiest loans better than the crowds. We also find suggestive evidence of algorithmic bias in machine decisions. We find that, compared with women, men are more likely to receive loans by machine. We propose a general and effective “debiasing” method that can be applied to any prediction-focused machine learning (ML) applications. We show that the debiased ML algorithm, which suffers from lower prediction accuracy, still improves the crowd’s investment decisions in our context. Our results indicate that ML can help crowd-lending platforms better fulfill the promise of providing access to financial resources to otherwise underserved individuals and ensure fairness in the allocation of these resources.
The Fateful First Consumer Review
Authors: Park Sungsik , Shin Woochoel , Xie Jinhong
Published: February 2021

This paper presents theory and empirical evidence on the impact of the first consumer review on the evolution of online word of mouth and the fate of the product.
ɛ-Strong Simulation of Fractional Brownian Motion and Related Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Chen Yi , Dong Jing , Ni Hao
Published: February 2021

Consider a fractional Brownian motion (fBM) [Formula: see text] with Hurst index [Formula: see text]. We construct a probability space supporting both B H and a fully simulatable process [Formula: see text] such that[Formula: see text]

with probability one for any user-specified error bound [Formula: see text]. When [Formula: see text], we further enhance our error guarantee to the α-Hölder norm for any [Formula: see text]. This enables us to extend our algorithm to the simulation of fBM-driven stochastic differential equations [Formula: see text]. Under mild regularity conditions on the drift and diffusion coefficients of Y, we construct a probability space supporting both Y and a fully simulatable process [Formula: see text] such that[Formula: see text]

with probability one. Our algorithms enjoy the tolerance-enforcement feature, under which the error bounds can be updated sequentially in an efficient way. Thus, the algorithms can be readily combined with other advanced simulation techniques to estimate the expectations of functionals of fBMs efficiently.
Identification of Feasibility of Canned Based Foods Image Processing Techniques Using Thresholding
Authors: Muhammad Nurdin Ilhamsyah , Fadlil Abdul
Published: February 2021

Eye sight is sometimes deceptive, especially in determining the quality of a canned food, so it is necessary to use technology that resembles human visual observation, namely in the form of an application. The process to detect the quality of canned food uses image processing methods, especially thresholding, which is then designed so that the application is able to determine the quality of canned food with the help of the MATLAB GUI which detects and then sends it from making the MATLAB GUI on the Laptop to Android using FTP (File Transfer Protocol). At the end of the process, it is marked with known good and bad quality of canned food with an android application that has been specially designed with an accuracy level of 84% with a thresholding value of 70.