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Background: Seed aging, a natural and inevitable process occurring during storage. Oats, an annual herb belonging to the Gramineae family and pooideae. In addition to being a healthy food, oats serve as ecological pastures, combating soil salinization and desertification. They also play a role in promoting grassland agriculture and supplementing winter livestock feed. However, the high lipid and fat derivatives contents of oat seeds make them susceptible to deterioration, as fat derivatives are prone to rancidity, affecting oat seed production, storage, development, and germplasm resource utilization. Comparative studies on the effects of aging on physiology and cytological structure in covered and naked oat seeds are limited. Thus, our study aimed to determine the mechanism underlying seed deterioration in artificially aged 'LongYan No. 3' (A. sativa) and 'BaiYan No. 2' (A. nuda) seeds, providing a basis for the physiological evaluation of oat seed aging and serving as a reference for scientifically safe storage and efficient utilization of oats. Results: In both oat varieties, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in seeds showed increasing and decreasing trends, respectively. Variance analysis revealed significant differences and interaction in all measured indicators of oat seeds between the two varieties at different aging times. 'LongYan No. 3' seeds, aged for 24–96 h, exhibited a germination rate of < 30%, Conductivity, malondialdehyde, soluble sugar, and soluble protein levels increased more significantly than the 'BaiYan No. 2'. With prolonged aging leading to cell membrane degradation, reactive oxygen species accumulation, disrupted antioxidant enzyme system, evident embryo cell swelling, and disordered cell arrangement, blocking the nutrient supply route. Simultaneously, severely concentrated chromatin in the nucleus, damaged mitochondrial structure, and impaired energy metabolism were noted, resulting in the loss of 'LongYan No. 3' seed vitality and value. Conversely, 'BaiYan No. 2' seeds showed a germination rate of 73.33% after 96 h of aging, consistently higher antioxidant enzyme activity during aging, normal embryonic cell shape, and existence of the endoplasmic reticulum. Conclusions: ROS accumulation and antioxidant enzyme system damage in aged oat seeds, nuclear chromatin condensation, mitochondrial structure damage, nucleic acid metabolism and respiration weakened, oat seed vigor decreased. 'LongYan No. 3' seeds were more severely damaged under artificial aging than 'BaiYan No. 2' seeds, highlighting their heightened susceptibility to aging effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract\nSTATEMENT OF NOVELTYThis study unveiled the cadmium phytoremediation potential and its augmentation using 6-Benzylaminopurine in Strobilanthes alternata. Cadmium stress was provided by applying 250 mg/kg cadmium chloride in soil and 25 ppm of 6-BAP (25 ml) was administered to the plants as foliar spray. The results revealed high bioconcentration factor (BCF) (18.82 ± 0.54) and low translocation factor (TF) values (0.055 ± 0.002) for the plant based on which we strongly recommend S. alternata as a promising candidate for Cd phytoremediation. The phytostabilization potential of the plant was further enhanced by applying 6-BAP, which augmented its BCF to 22.09 ± 0.64 and reduced the TF to 0.038 ± 0.001. Cd toxicity caused a reduction of plant growth parameters, root volume, adaxial-abaxial stomatal indices, relative water content, tolerance index, moisture content, membrane stability index, and xylem vessel diameter in S. alternata. However, Cd + 6-BAP treated plants exhibited an increase of the same compared to Cd-treated plants. FTIR analysis of Cd + 6-BAP treated plants revealed increased deposition of hemicellulose, causing enhanced retention of Cd in the root xylem walls, which is largely responsible for increased phytostabilization of Cd. Therefore, 6-BAP application in S. alternata can be exploited to restore Cd-contaminated areas effectively.The research paper “6-Benzylaminopurine Mediated Augmentation of Cadmium Phytostabilization Potential in Strobilanthes alternata” has established the Cd phytostabilization potential of the plant Strobilanthes alternata and also identified the role of 6-BAP in augmenting the Cd phytoremediation potential of this plant for the very first time. The physiological and anatomical changes in relation to the applied stress signals were also studied for the first time in S. alternata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The dentate nucleus (DN) is the largest, most lateral, and phylogenetically most recent of the deep cerebellar nuclei. Its pivotal role encompasses the planning, initiation, and modification of voluntary movement but also spans non-motor functions like executive functioning, visuospatial processing, and linguistic abilities. This review aims to offer a comprehensive description of the DN, detailing its embryology, anatomy, physiology, and clinical relevance, alongside an analysis of dentatotomy. Methods and results: We delve into the history, embryology, anatomy, vascular supply, imaging characteristics, and clinical significance of the DN. Furthermore, we thoroughly review the dentatotomy, emphasizing its role in treating spasticity. Conclusions: Understanding the intricacies of the anatomy, physiology, vasculature, and projections of the DN has taken on increased importance in current neurosurgical practice. Advances in technology have unveiled previously unknown functions of the deep cerebellar nuclei, predominantly related to non-motor domains. Such discoveries are revitalizing older techniques, like dentatotomy, and applying them to newer, more localized targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olov Oscarsson's review on the functional organization of spinocerebellar paths is a prime demonstration of the great skills and huge knowledge base of the electrophysiologists of his era working on communication systems in the brain. Oscarsson describes and characterizes in detail no less than ten different communication lines between the spinal cord and the cerebellum. As such, his work proved to be a highly fertile basis for ongoing physiological and anatomical research. However, even after 50 years of continuing cerebellar research, many questions are still open and even care must be taken that the differentiation in spinocerebellar paths, so carefully demonstrated by Oscarsson, is not lost in present-day research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pathophysiologic mechanisms of disorders of esophagogastric junction (EGJ) outflow are poorly understood. We aimed to compare anatomic and physiologic characteristics among patients with disorders of EGJ outflow and normal motility. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated adult patients with achalasia types 1, 2, 3, EGJ outflow obstruction (EGJOO) or normal motility on high‐resolution manometry who underwent endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) from January 2019 to August 2022. Thickened circular muscle was defined as ≥1.6 mm. Characteristics from barium esophagram (BE) and functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) were additionally assessed. Key Results: Of 71 patients (mean age 56.2 years; 49% male), there were 8 (11%) normal motility, 58 (82%) had achalasia (5 (7%) type 1, 32 (45%) classic type 2, 21 (30%) type 3 [including 12 type 2 with FEPs]), and 7 (7%) had EGJOO. A significantly greater proportion of type 3 achalasia had thickened distal circular muscle (76.2%) versus normal motility (0%; p < 0.001) or type 2 achalasia (25%; p < 0.001). Type 1 achalasia had significantly wider mean maximum esophageal diameter on BE (57.8 mm) compared to type 2 achalasia (32.8 mm), type 3 achalasia (23.4 mm), EGJOO (15.9 mm), and normal motility (13.5 mm). 100% type 3 achalasia versus 0% type 1 achalasia/normal motility had tertiary contractions on BE. Mean EGJ distensibility index on FLIP was lower for type 3 achalasia (1.2 mmHg/mm2) and EGJOO (1.2 mmHg/mm2) versus type 2 (2.3 mmHg/mm2) and type 1 achalasia (2.9 mmHg/mm2). Conclusions: Our findings suggest distinct pathologic pathways may exist: type 3 achalasia and EGJOO may represent a spastic outflow phenotype consisting of a thickened, spastic circular muscle, which is distinct from type 1 and 2 achalasia consisting of a thin caliber circular muscle layer with more prominent esophageal dilation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although huanglongbing (HLB) is a devastating citrus disease, improved tolerant cultivars, such as Sugar Belle (SB) mandarin, have been identified. To understand the responses that HLB-affected SB undergoes, we compared 14CO2 fixation, carbohydrate export, phloem callose accumulation, relative expression of plant defense activators, and anatomical changes between healthy and infected SB trees versus susceptible Pineapple (PA) sweet orange. Eight- to ten-week-old leaves of infected SB showed a 2.5-fold increase in 14CO2 fixation and a 13% decrease in 14C-carbohydrate export, whereas HLB-affected PA presented a decrease of 33 and 50%, respectively. The mean distance of a callose deposit to its closest neighbor was 36% smaller in infected SB versus healthy, whereas in HLB-affected PA, it was 33% higher. Expression of papain-like cysteine proteases (PLCPs) was upregulated in SB but downregulated in PA. Infected SB showed minor alterations in the number of xylem vessels, a 16% larger xylem vessel lumen area, and a 14% increase in the proportional area of the xylem. In contrast, PA showed a 2.4-fold increase in the xylem vessel number and a 2% increase in the proportional xylem area. Three complementary mechanisms of tolerance in SB are hypothesized: (i) increased carbohydrate availability induced by greater CO2 fixation, mild effect in carbohydrate export, and local accumulation of callose in the phloem; (ii) activation of defense response via upregulation of PLCPs, and (iii) increased investment in the xylem structure. Thus, phloem and xylem modifications seem to be involved in SB tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological sex is a primary determinant of athletic performance because of fundamental sex differences in anatomy and physiology dictated by sex chromosomes and sex hormones. Adult men are typically stronger, more powerful, and faster than women of similar age and training status. Thus, for athletic events and sports relying on endurance, muscle strength, speed, and power, males typically outperform females by 10%--30% depending on the requirements of the event. These sex differences in performance emerge with the onset of puberty and coincide with the increase in endogenous sex steroid hormones, in particular testosterone in males, which increases 30-fold by adulthood, but remains low in females. The primary goal of this consensus statement is to provide the latest scientific knowledge andmechanisms for the sex differences in athletic performance. This review highlights the differences in anatomy and physiology between males and females that are primary determinants of the sex differences in athletic performance and in response to exercise training, and the role of sex steroid hormones (particularly testosterone and estradiol). We also identify historical and nonphysiological factors that influence the sex differences in performance. Finally, we identify gaps in the knowledge of sex differences in athletic performance and the underlying mechanisms, providing substantial opportunities for high-impact studies. A major step toward closing the knowledge gap is to include more and equitable numbers of women to that of men in mechanistic studies that determine any of the sex differences in response to an acute bout of exercise, exercise training, and athletic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: As medical schools worldwide condense the preclinical phase of medical education, it is increasingly important to identify resources that help medical students retain and employ the medical information. One popular tool among medical students is an application called Anki, a free and open-source flashcard program utilizing spaced repetition for quick and durable memorization. The purpose of this study is to determine how variable Anki usage among first-year medical students throughout a standardized anatomy and physiology course correlates with performance. Methods: We designed a novel Anki add-on called "Anki Stat Scraper" to collect data on first-year medical students at Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine during their 8-week anatomy and physiology course. Anki users (N = 45) were separated into four groups: Heavy (N = 5), intermediate (N = 5), light (N = 16), and limited-Anki (N = 19) users, based on the time each student spent on the flashcard app, how many flashcards they studied per day, and how many days they used the app prior to their anatomy and physiology exam. A 14-question Likert scale questionnaire was administered to each participant to gauge their understanding of Anki and how they used the app to study. Results: Heavy and intermediate Anki users had higher average exam scores than their counterparts who did not use Anki as a study method. Average exam scores were 90.34%, 91.74%, 85.86%, and 87.75% for heavy, intermediate, light, and limited-Anki users respectively (p > 0.05). Our survey demonstrated that Anki users spent an average of 73.86% of their study time using Anki, compared to an average of 36.53% for limited-Anki users (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Anki users did not score significantly higher compared to limited-Anki users. However, survey responses from students believe that Anki may still be a useful educational tool for future medical students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fetal pulmonary circulation represents less than 25% of the fetal cardiac output. In comparison with the pulmonary arteries, studies on pulmonary veins are few and limited, and many questions remain to be answered. The literature reports that pulmonary veins play an important role in regulating vascular flow, forming an active segment of the pulmonary circulation. The development of more sophisticated ultrasonography technology has allowed the investigation of the extraparenchymal pulmonary veins and their waveform. The recognition of the pulmonary vein anatomy in echocardiography is important for the diagnosis of anomalous pulmonary venous connections, with a significant impact on prognosis. On the other hand, the identification of the normal pulmonary vein waveform seems to be a reliable way to study left heart function, with potential applicability in fetal and maternal pathology. Thus, the goal of this narrative review was to provide a clinically oriented perspective of the available literature on this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In all fields of biology, understanding technical terminology is a challenge for students. In many cases, this may distract them from focusing on fundamental processes and concepts. Across the biology subfields, much of the vernacular shares similar etymology and morphology. However, students lack the exposure necessary to identify these key features, which often explain the meaning of terms without requiring any context at all. Therefore, instead of encouraging students to memorize many terms independently, it could be more beneficial to show them how words are constructed. Here, I propose an activity designed to help students recognize terms that may be connected, understand how vocabulary is often constructed to reflect its idea, and develop comfortability using these terms themselves in discussions. Through a guided group activity, students will have a chance to break down terms they have previously encountered and to draw connections between novel words. If students are capable of relating words to each other before even knowing what they mean, they may learn more effectively. Without being intimidated by enigmatic vocabulary, they can focus on broader concepts. In addition, when students understand how biological terminology is constructed, they may even dissect new words without needing the context surrounding them. This activity is applicable to courses in any specialty of biology, as various molecules, tissues, and processes follow general naming principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many students find human anatomy and physiology courses difficult and there are specific ways instructors can help motivate students. Largely, how instructors phrase their words in class can have a huge impact. We present strategies and tips on how instructors can help motivate students in their courses by encouraging ownership of learning, study efficiency, and structuring their course for success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biological sex is increasingly recognized as a critical variable in health care. The authors reviewed the current literature regarding sex‐based differences in rhinology to summarize the data and identify critical knowledge gaps. Methods: A scoping review was conducted. Publications reporting sex‐based differences in anatomy, physiology, and pathology focusing on disease prevalence, disease burden, and outcomes in rhinology were identified. Results: Seventy‐five relevant manuscripts were identified. While paranasal sinuses are of similar size at birth, they become larger in males leading to differences in ostium location. Females outperform males in olfactory identification but only in the 18‐ to 50‐year age group. Estrogen and progesterone administration can impact muscarinic and α1‐adrenergic nasal mucosa receptor density. Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and CRS without nasal polyps are more prevalent in females while CRS with nasal polyps is more prevalent in males. CRS symptom burden is higher in females before and after endoscopic sinus surgery; however, no difference in endoscopic sinus surgery utilization was found based on sex. Allergic rhinitis is more common in males before puberty and in females after puberty. Epistaxis is more prevalent in males and postmenopausal females compared with premenopausal females, perhaps from differences in sex‐hormonal and hypertension status. In nasopharyngeal carcinoma, the incidence of sinus abnormalities was higher in males than females. Conclusions: Although many sex‐based differences exist in rhinology, further research is necessary to offer evidence‐based treatment guidelines. Gonadal hormones should be studied as a therapeutic in rhinologic pathology as baseline physiologic differences exist such as those found in nasal mucosa receptor density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the last 40 years, the ileal pouch-anal anastomosis has been used in patients with ulcerative colitis, familial adenomatous polyposis, and occasionally severe constipation to reconstruct the gastrointestinal tract after proctocolectomy. Although the procedure has generally been successful in helping patients avoid an ileostomy, it has come with its own set of problems. These include complications of the surgery such as fistulas and bowel obstruction, persistent inflammation of the pouch known as pouchitis, and functional problems related to the lack of expulsive peristalsis in the pouch. It is this last group of problems that is exacerbated by a poor diet, ill-advised anti-diarrheal medications, anal stenosis and pouch twists. As a consequence, patients with pouch problems are frequently referred for radiologic evaluation, with pouchography, defecation studies, and small bowel imaging commonly requested. In this review, the basic anatomy and physiology of the ileal pouch are discussed to provide a logical baseline against which to measure the anatomy of pouches and its relationship to the symptoms of pouch dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Rafael Lorente de Nó was a neuroscientist that worked alongside two of the giants of Medicine, the Nobel Prize winners Cajal and Bárány. OBJECTIVE: To describe the contributions of Lorente de Nó to vestibular neuroscience. METHODS: Detailed review of the publications of Lorente de Nó and analysis of the archives from Junta para Ampliación de Estudios e Investigaciones Científicas at Residencia de Estudiantes (Madrid, Spain), Casa de Salud Valdecilla at Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla (Santander, Spain), Becker Medical Library at Washington University (St. Louis, MO, USA), Rockefeller Archive Center (Sleepy Hollow, New York, NY, USA), Archivo Fernando de Castro (Madrid, Spain), Biblioteca Nacional de España (Madrid, Spain) and Legado Cajal at Instituto Cajal (Madrid, Spain). Most of this material is unpublished and includes over a hundred letters to or from Lorente. RESULTS: Lorente de Nó made a substantial contribution to our understanding of the vestibular system. Amongst these, he meticulously detailed the course of the vestibular nerve and its central projections. He described the vestibulo-ocular reflex as the consequence of an integration of the various nuclei and connections across the vestibular system, rather than a simple three-neuron arc. He also highlighted the role of the reticular formation in the generation of the fast phase of the nystagmus. CONCLUSIONS: Lorente de Nó was a pioneer of modern neuro-otology, having made outstanding contributions to vestibular neuroscience, forging novel discoveries that still burn true today. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The current study aimed to determine perceptions of registered and student nurses regarding the integration of anatomy and physiology into nursing practice. Methods: This scoping review was conducted following the checklist provided in the Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for scoping reviews. Articles published in PubMed, ERIC, and CINAL from January 1, 2002 to September 30, 2022 were included. Results: A literature review of 20 articles that matched the indicative criteria revealed that both undergraduate student and registered nurses recognized knowledge of anatomy and physiology as important to nursing practice. Student nurses recognized that such knowledge is related to understanding patient pathophysiology, patient observation, treatment selection, and patient safety and forms the basis for nursing practice. Registered nurses who were confident in their knowledge of anatomy and physiology also reported that they were able to explain the rationale for their nursing practice. They also reported that this knowledge is necessary for communication with multiple professions, which promotes patient/family trust in nurses and is the basis for building trusting relationships with patients and their families. Conclusions: Although undergraduate student and registered nurses recognized the importance of learning anatomy and physiology, the integration of anatomy and physiology into nursing practice was not the same for all student and registered nurses. This suggests the need to investigate the overall perceptions of nurses regarding the integration of anatomy and physiology into nursing practice and for faculty to discuss how to facilitate critical thinking among students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

My research has been devoted to neuromuscular control of sound production in toadfish, catfish, and other species along with an occasional foray into hearing. Toadfish utilize a heart shaped swim bladder and superfast muscles with small fibers and an unusual ultrastructure. Both sonic motor neurons and muscle fibers increase in size and number for multiple years, and large muscle fibers fragment and likely divide, maintaining energetic efficiency. Toadfish sonic muscles drive the swim bladder directly (a forced response), and the sound waveform parallels bladder movement. The forced response differs from traditional interpretations of swim bladders as underwater resonant bubbles. High water content in the swim bladder wall inhibits resonance by viscous damping at shallow but likely less effectively at deeper depths, suggesting both notions might apply. Catfish produce sounds with their pectoral spines by rubbing a ridged surface on the dorsal process against a rough surface on the cleithrum: a series of quick jerks produce sounds via a slip-stick mechanism. Recent discoveries on other species reveal novel adaptations for sound production and suggestions are made for future work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The periosteum is a membrane that covers almost all bones in the body. It is a living structure but attracts little attention unless it reacts excessively. We highlight the important points in the anatomy, histology, and physiology of the periosteum, the stimuli and various aspects of periosteal reaction, and the main conditions underlying periosteal reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growth experiment has been established to estimate the influence of two diverse sources of β-glucan, fungal derived from baker's yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and vegetal derived from barley bran Hordeum vulgare as long-term effect on the growth performance, survival rate, and physiological status in fingerlings of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) after 60 days of feeding on artificial diets containing 3% fungal β-glucan (A group), 3% vegetal β-glucan (B group), as well as 0% β-glucan (C group) as a control in duplicate for each group. Some of the blood parameters such as Packed cell volume PCV, osmotic pressure OP, total protein content TP, glucose content GLU., enzymes of ALP, AST, and ALT were estimated. Results of growth performance including weight increase, growth rates, relative growth rates, and specific growth rates as well as survival rates showed no significant variances (P > 0.05) among the three groups, although there were rises in these values in groups of fungal (A) and vegetal (B) sources of β-glucan additives than the control group C. Contrariwise, most of the physiological parameters estimated in the fish blood showed a significant improvement in performance in group A and then B, where PCV, OP, TP, GLU, ALP, AST, and ALT values showed a significant decline (P < 0.05) for A group and for B group, from the control group C. The study confirmed that the addition of β-glucan, especially that derived from a fungal source to fish diets, led to a non-significant increase in growth and survival rates, while it guided to a significant improvement in the physiological activities of the parameters PCV, OP, TP, GLU, ALP, AST, and ALT in the fish blood. The study encourages adding the fungal source of β-glucan to the artificial diets of common carp as an Immunostimulatory agent for its health enhancement [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Originally a genetic model organism, the experimental use of Drosophila melanogaster has grown to include quantitative behavioral analyses, sophisticated perturbations of neuronal function, and detailed sensory physiology. A highlight of these developments can be seen in the context of vision, where pioneering studies have uncovered fundamental and generalizable principles of sensory processing. Here we begin with an overview of vision-guided behaviors and common methods for probing visual circuits. We then outline the anatomy and physiology of brain regions involved in visual processing, beginning at the sensory periphery and ending with descending motor control. Areas of focus include contrast and motion detection in the optic lobe, circuits for visual feature selectivity, computations in support of spatial navigation, and contextual associative learning. Finally, we look to the future of fly visual neuroscience and discuss promising topics for further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through his poetry, Codruț Gabriel CANTEA (first year cadet, CBRN Defense at the "Nicolae Bțlcescu" Land Forces Academy of Sibiu) checks the pulse of today's world and being. His verses denote the understanding of the world as a living organism, not just in its anatomy, but also in its physiology. The poetic deliveries in homeopathic doses are intended for the soul and mental genome and are related to his readers. Because he knows that one writes and reads in order to preserve the human essence. Creator of lyrical universe, with the poetic grace conceived in blood, he concentrates, in internal combustions, as well as in initiatory, catalytic utterances - experiences, views and existential guidance. And he traces poetic interior and exterior territories in which he settles (and settles his readers as well) empathetically and comprehensively with regard to the course of the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perforated microelectrode arrays (pMEAs) have become essential tools for ex vivo retinal electrophysiological studies. pMEAs increase the nutrient supply to the explant and alleviate the accentuated curvature of the retina, allowing for long-term culture and intimate contacts between the retina and electrodes for electrophysiological measurements. However, commercial pMEAs are not compatible with in situ high-resolution optical imaging and lack the capability of controlling the local microenvironment, which are highly desirable features for relating function to anatomy and probing physiological and pathological mechanisms in retina. Here we report on microfluidic pMEAs (μpMEAs) that combine transparent graphene electrodes and the capability of locally delivering chemical stimulation. We demonstrate the potential of μpMEAs by measuring the electrical response of ganglion cells to locally delivered high K+ stimulation under controlled microenvironments. Importantly, the capability for high-resolution confocal imaging of the retina tissue on top of the graphene electrodes allows for further analyses of the electrical signal source. The new capabilities provided by μpMEAs could allow for retinal electrophysiology assays to address key questions in retinal circuitry studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Olfactory Bulb is a component of the Olfactory System, in which it plays an essential role as an interface between the peripheral components and the cerebral cortex responsible for olfactory interpretation and discrimination. It is in this element that the first selective integration of olfactory stimuli occurs through a complex cell interaction that forwards the received olfactory information to higher cortical centers. Considering its position in the organizational hierarchy of the olfactory system, it is now known that changes in the Olfactory Bulb can lead to olfactory abnormalities. Through imaging techniques, it was possible to establish relationships between the occurrence of changes secondary to brain aging and senility, neurodegenerative diseases, head trauma, and infectious diseases with a decrease in the size of the Olfactory Bulb and in olfactory acuity. In companion animals, this relationship has also been identified, with observations of relations between the cranial conformation, the disposition, size, and shape of the Olfactory Bulb, and the occurrence of structural alterations associated with diseases with different etiologies. However, greater difficulty in quantitatively assessing olfactory acuity in animals and a manifestly smaller number of studies dedicated to this topic maintain a lack of concrete and unequivocal results in this field of veterinary sciences. The aim of this work is to revisit the Olfactory Bulb in companion animals in all its dimensions, review its anatomy and histological characteristics, physiological integration in the olfactory system, importance as a potential early indicator of the establishment of specific pathologies, as well as techniques of imaging evaluation for its in vivo clinical exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical science does not treat death as an independent physiological phenomenon. It believes that disease is the cause of death and treats both as preventable phenomena. Doctors and relatives nurture a guilt complex when death occurs. The moment of natural death is robbed of its poignancy. There is no cause of death. Death of the physical body is an intrinsic, time governed, built-in ontolytic program. It completes the biologic trajectory of the individual organism which begins at conception and ends with death. In this article, the actual built-in mechanism and operation of the physiological process of death is suggested vis-a-vis biology and medicine. The physical body of an individual is like a biological gadget which is constantly charged with life force received from cosmic energy through the subtle body which is an implement that cannot be objectified in the same way as the gross physical body but is experienced only subjectively by one and all, as mind (antahkaran in Sanskrit and Indian languages, meaning inner instrument, a subtler instrument in contrast to external organs of actions like limbs, tongue, etc. of the physical body). This life force keeps the subtle body and the entire physical body live and functioning. It maintains the body's integrity and internal homeostasis throughout life. The physical body like a gadget has a built-in program which decides how much total capacity, pace and quantum of life force it can use. It is often referred to as breath quota and heartbeat quota, however, they are manifestations and not the mechanism and operation of life and death in the physical body. When the quantum of life force of the physical body is exhausted, the subtle body, a connector for life forces departs, leaving behind the physical body. The vital functions stop and the person is declared dead. It is usually referred to as departure of soul (Pran or Jiva in India) from the physical body in common parlance. This phenomenon of predetermined capacity, pace and fixed quota of life force is operational in all the components of the body. Each cell, each organ, each system and the whole body is a packed unit of bioenergy. They are in structural and functional dynamic homeostasis under constant flux resulting in constant change in the body. The rate of expenditure contributes towards deciding the total life span of the cell, organ, systems and individual. It accounts for the phenomena of cell death, progressive diminution in vitality, change in organ and system functions during life and physical death of an individual at the end. Death is a bio-cosmic phenomenon governed by biological laws. There is variation in life span at the interspecies and intraspecies levels because we measure lifespan of an individual in terms of physical time and not in terms of biological time which is an independent entity, not measurable and predictable as physical time. Everyone lives one full unit of life in terms of biological time which begins at conception and ends with death. The normal distribution of each biological feature, including the biological unit of life, is independent of one another making each individual unique. The biological clock runs at its own dynamic unique pace in every individual. The biological timer starts ticking at conception and stops when the life force quantum is over. When the person dies, the physical body stops functioning and is left behind for others to dispose of. The timing of death is beyond the realm of objective perception and cannot be equated with chronological or physical time. It is a trans-science and trans-technique phenomenon beyond the ken of humankind to alter its mechanism and operation. The article explains the impact of extrinsic and intrinsic diseases, various treatments such as organ transplant, as well as the impact of lifestyle on the biological time scale of an individual. It spells out the difference between natural and unnatural death. With this understanding, death can be appreciated, accepted and respected as a built-in operational intrinsic physiological phenomenon for the end of one's life. It is a must for the survival and healthy continuity of all the species in the biological world including mankind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Various snake and lizard species have transparent and fused eyelids that make up a spectacle. From an evolutionary point of view, it is assumed that ancestral snakes developed this structure to protect the eye as an adaptation to their burrowing, underground existence. Between the spectacle and the eye lies a narrow subspectacular space that is filled with a tear-like fluid that drains to the roof of the mouth via the lacrimal duct. Although disorders of the eye are relatively uncommon in squamates with a spectacle, disorders of the spectacle, the subspectacular space, and its drainage system are frequently encountered in veterinary practice. As the spectacle is an integral part of the skin it is renewed with each shedding cycle. Retention of the old layers of the spectacle may occur because of infectious as well as non-infectious causes. Besides inflammation and trauma of the spectacle, overfilling due to blockage of the drainage system (pseudobuphthalmos) as well as bacterial and parasitic infection of the subspectacular space (subspectacular infection) are undoubtedly the most frequently observed disorders in snakes and spectacled lizards. An adequate diagnostic approach often allows the establishment of a successful treatment for these conditions. Various squamate species have completely fused eyelids that make up a transparent spectacle. The spectacle is a continuation of the integument that is renewed with each shedding cycle and creates a narrow subspectacular or corneospectacular space that is filled with lacrimal fluid. The latter is considered as the analogue of the conjunctival sac in other vertebrates. Almost all reptiles that have a spectacle lack a nictitating membrane, bursalis muscle, and lacrimal glands. The lacrimal fluid in the subspectacular space is secreted by the Harderian gland. The features of the spectacle and its lacrimal drainage system are an illustration of the enormous variation of the morphological adaptations that are seen in reptiles and one of the most distinguishable traits of snakes and most gecko species. Whereas ocular disease in squamates with a spectacle is infrequently seen in practice, disorders of the spectacle and the subspectacular space are commonly encountered. In order to apply an adequate diagnostic and therapeutic approach for these conditions, a sound knowledge and understanding of the anatomical and physiological peculiarities of the spectacle, subspectacular space, and lacrimal drainage system are fundamental. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to describe the most important cardiac structures in the Heterodon nasicus through echocardiography and anatomical dissection. Echocardiographic and echo-Doppler measurements were performed on twenty healthy adult Heterodon nasicus (10.10). The values of the ventricular length, aortic diameter, pulmonary trunk diameter, the mean thickness of the interventricular septum, and thicknesses of the wall of the cavum pulmonale (Cav. P) and cavum arteriosum (Cav. A), were measured. The aortic flow and pulmonary trunk flow were recorded. Two dead specimens (1.1) were dissected. The male's pulmonary trunk diameter was bigger compared to the female's in both the long and short axis. The reproductive ecology of Heterodon nasicus has yet to be fully elucidated upon, however, male territorialism and dispersal from the hibernacula, and multiple male courtships toward a single female were described, hence, the more active reproductive activity of the male and the consequent sexual selection toward a higher aerobic performance can be hypothesised. A moderate interventricular right to left shunt was noticed in the Cav. V of all the specimens, which is considered normal and should not confuse the clinician. Congenital defects, cardiomyopathies, valvulopathies, and pericardial diseases are known to occur in ophidians and other reptiles. Reliable data and profound knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the ophidian heart are fundamental for the in vivo diagnosis of cardiac diseases in snakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With this paper we aim to make a brief description of the species Sus barbatus. S. barbatus is the scientific name for the bearded pig, also known as the Bornean bearded pig. It is a pig species native to Southeast Asia, specifically Borneo, Sumatra, and nearby smaller islands. Bearded pigs are known for their distinctive appearance, which includes a beard-like tuft of hair on their chin, as well as long, sharp tusks. They are omnivorous and primarily feed on roots, fruit, and small animals such as insects. Bearded pigs are social animals and live in groups of up to 20 individuals. They are typically active during the day and rest in the shade during the hottest part of the day. Despite being a common prey animal for many predators, they were considered in the past a species of "least concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to their widespread distribution and relatively stable population. Now the species is listed as "vulnerable". Conservation research on S. barbatus is important to ensure the long-term survival of this species and the ecosystems in which it lives. The anatomy and physiology of S. barbatus are adapted to their omnivorous diet and their habitat in Southeast Asia. The ecology of S. barbatus is shaped by their habitat, diet, social behavior, and interactions with other species in their ecosystem. The bearded pig has several unique features that set it apart from other swine species, including its facial hair, large size, omnivorous diet, complex social structure, and rainforest habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a case series about retinal arterial macroaneurysms in three patients recovered from COVID-19. None of them had previous past ocular and systemic history. The first patient was a 47-year-old man, with best-corrected visual acuity of 20/20 in both eyes. He presented a cotton wool spot in the right eye and two peripheral exudative retinal arterial macroaneurysms in the left eye. Laser photocoagulation was performed and best-corrected visual acuity remained stable. The second one was a 62-year-old- woman with acute visual loss in the right eye (best-corrected visual acuity of 20/400). There was vitreous hemorrhage and a peripheral retinal arterial macroaneurysm in the right eye. Laser photocoagulation was performed and best-corrected visual acuity improved to 20/20. The third patient was a 54-year- old woman, with best-corrected visual acuity of 20/20 in the right eye and 20/600 in the left eye. Fundus examination showed multiple layer hemorrhage in the macular region and retinal arterial macroaneurysms in the superior temporal branch. The cases underwent fluorescein angiography, which confirmed the diagnosis of retinal arterial macroaneurysms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A central question in the study of mass extinction is whether these events simply intensify background extinction processes and patterns versus change the driving mechanisms and associated patterns of selectivity. Over the past two decades, aided by the development of new fossil occurrence databases, selectivity patterns associated with mass extinction have become increasingly well quantified and their differences from background patterns established. In general, differences in geographic range matter less during mass extinction than during background intervals, while differences in respiratory and circulatory anatomy that may correlate with tolerance to rapid change in oxygen availability, temperature, and pH show greater evidence of selectivity during mass extinction. The recent expansion of physiological experiments on living representatives of diverse clades and the development of simple, quantitative theories linking temperature and oxygen availability to the extent of viable habitat in the oceans have enabled the use of Earth system models to link geochemical proxy constraints on environmental change with quantitative predictions of the amount and biogeography of habitat loss. Early indications are that the interaction between physiological traits and environmental change can explain substantial proportions of observed extinction selectivity for at least some mass extinction events. A remaining challenge is quantifying the effects of primary extinction resulting from the limits of physiological tolerance versus secondary extinction resulting from the loss of taxa on which a given species depended ecologically. The calibration of physiologybased models to past extinction events will enhance their value in prediction and mitigation efforts related to the current biodiversity crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Rhizomatous growth characterizes numerous taxa among vascular plants. While abundant information exists on nutrient sharing and demography, the question of how these metameric organisms move water through their bodies remains largely unstudied. Moreover, we lack an understanding of the evolutionary implications of rhizomatous growth across vascular plants. Here, we examined these questions by investigating how rhizomatous growth and vascular construction affect whole‐plant hydraulic function. Methods: In five terrestrial fern species with diverse vascular construction, we used microcomputed tomography and bright‐field microscopy to examine vascular construction across nodes along the rhizome. These data were integrated with measurements of leaf stomatal conductance under rooted and uprooted conditions to relate vascular patterning and hydraulic architecture to leaf water status. Results: Similar to phytomers of woody seed plants, nodal regions in rhizomatous ferns are areas of hydraulic resistance. While water is shared along the rhizomes of these investigated species, hydraulic conductivity drops at nodes and stomatal conductance declines when nodes were locally uprooted. Together, our data suggest that nodes are chokepoints in axial water movement along the rhizome. Conclusions: Nodal chokepoints decrease hydraulic integration between phytomers. At the same time, chokepoints may act as "safety valves", hydraulically localizing each phytomer—potentially decreasing embolism and pathogen spread. This suggests a potential trade‐off in the principal construction of the fern rhizome. Moreover, we propose that shoot‐borne roots (homorhizy) and the prostrate habit of rhizomatous ferns decrease the hydraulic and structural burdens that upright plants typically incur. The absence of these hydraulic and structural demands may be one reason ferns (and many rhizomatous plants) lack, or have minimally developed, secondary xylem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spent engine oil is one of the most common pollutants in the world. Its Disposal has been persistently problematic and adversely affects plant growth. Effects of different levels (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 ml respectively in 5 kg of soil) of spent engine oil application on germination, survival, growth and leaf anatomy of Abelmoschus caillei (A Chev.) Stevels was investigated using completely randomized design in five replicates. Data collected on germination, seedling survival, growth and fruiting were subjected to the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) analyses version 21.0; while leaf epidermal features were determined using standard methods. Spent engine oil at 200 ml significantly (P<0.05) delayed and reduced seed germination from 4 days to 2 weeks for all plants and by 85.71%; plant height was reduced by 65.74%; number of leaves by 84.74%; and leaf area by 84.41% compared to the control. Number of stomata on the abaxial and adaxial surfaces was increased by 27.99% and 35.02%, respectively; stomata area on the abaxial and adaxial surfaces was reduced by 97.35%, and 95.59 (p< 0.05) respectively. There was no fruiting. Application of high concentration of spent oil in soil affected all the parameters considered in this study. Therefore, soil contamination with spent engine oil should be properly checked in order to ensure sustainable plant productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological genotypes do not code directly for phenotypes; developmental physiology is the control layer that separates genomes from capacities ascertained by selection. A key aspect is cellular competency, since cells are not passive materials but descendants of unicellular organisms with complex context-sensitive behavioral capabilities. To probe the effects of different degrees of cellular competency on evolutionary dynamics, we used an evolutionary simulation in the context of minimal artificial embryogeny. Virtual embryos consisted of a single axis of positional information values provided by cells' 'structural genes', operated upon by an evolutionary cycle in which embryos' fitness was proportional to monotonicity of the axial gradient. Evolutionary dynamics were evaluated in two modes: hardwired development (genotype directly encodes phenotype), and a more realistic mode in which cells interact prior to evaluation by the fitness function ("regulative" development). We find that even minimal ability of cells with to improve their position in the embryo results in better performance of the evolutionary search. Crucially, we observed that increasing the behavioral competency masks the raw fitness encoded by structural genes, with selection favoring improvements to its developmental problem-solving capacities over improvements to its structural genome. This suggests the existence of a powerful ratchet mechanism: evolution progressively becomes locked in to improvements in the intelligence of its agential substrate, with reduced pressure on the structural genome. This kind of feedback loop in which evolution increasingly puts more effort into the developmental software than perfecting the hardware explains the very puzzling divergence of genome from anatomy in species like planaria. In addition, it identifies a possible driver for scaling intelligence over evolutionary time, and suggests strategies for engineering novel systems in silico and in bioengineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: As medical schools worldwide condense the preclinical phase of medical education, it is increasingly important to identify resources that help medical students retain and employ the medical information. One popular tool among medical students is an application called Anki, a free and open-source flashcard program utilizing spaced repetition for quick and durable memorization. The purpose of this study is to determine how variable Anki usage among first-year medical students throughout a standardized anatomy and physiology course correlates with performance. METHODS: We designed a novel Anki add-on called "Anki Stat Scraper" to collect data on first-year medical students at Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine during their 8-week anatomy and physiology course. Anki users (N=45) were separated into four groups: Heavy (N=5), intermediate (N=5), light (N=16), and limited-Anki (N=19) users, based on the time each student spent on the flashcard app, how many flashcards they studied per day, and how many days they used the app prior to their anatomy and physiology exam. A 14-question Likert scale questionnaire was administered to each participant to gauge their understanding of Anki and how they used the app to study. RESULTS: Heavy and intermediate Anki users had higher average exam scores than their counterparts who did not use Anki as a study method. Average exam scores were 90.34%, 91.74%, 85.86%, and 87.75% for heavy, intermediate, light, and limited-Anki users respectively (p>0.05). Our survey demonstrated that Anki users spent an average of 73.86% of their study time using Anki, compared to an average of 36.53% for limited-Anki users (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Anki users did not score significantly higher compared to limited-Anki users. However, survey responses from students believe that Anki may still be a useful educational tool for future medical students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have used ultrasound imaging and technology as a tool for nonclinical teaching of basic physiological concepts for several years and are aware anecdotally that only a few others in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (UK/ROI) are also using ultrasound with this intention in physiology and anatomy teaching. To better understand what areas ultrasound is used for by others, along with what barriers might exist to its use, we reached out to colleagues in UK/ROI institutions instructing on anatomy and physiology courses by asking them to complete a survey regarding their experiences. Relatively few institutions (9%) reported using the technology in this way but covered physiology and anatomy teaching in most major body systems. The perception of responding educators overall is that, overwhelmingly, ultrasound offers a useful addition to the teaching of physiology and anatomy and is very popular with students. Barriers to its implementation were identified, including unfamiliarity with equipment and potential uses. Lack of funding for equipment and staff, issues with class sizes, and lack of curriculum time were also identified. Despite these potential impediments, most nonusers were interested in finding out about the uses of ultrasound as a teaching tool. We conclude that the teaching community would benefit from wider dissemination of local practices. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We surveyed UK and Republic of Ireland institutions to establish the extent of ultrasound use in teaching undergraduate modules with significant anatomy or physiology content. Responses indicate that although ultrasound is used for a wide variety of systems, only a small proportion of courses use ultrasound for teaching. There is widespread interest in its use, with the main barriers being unfamiliarity with potential uses and the technology. We endorse further dissemination of this teaching practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Misalignments in teaching pedagogies between secondary schools and tertiary institutions have exacerbated educational disparities among students from different backgrounds. Given the variation in students' educational background and competencies, there was a need to develop an Anatomy and Physiology (A&P) Foundational Knowledge Assessment to establish the levels of preparedness of first-year medical students. Previous work that focused on the development of the assessment showed it to be effective in measuring students' foundational knowledge in human anatomy and physiology. The aim of this study was to assess the validity of the A&P Foundational Knowledge Assessment in determining students' prior knowledge and predicting academic performance of first-year students in their anatomy and physiology studies. Three hundred seventy first-year students, across two cohort years, 2017 and 2018, completed the A&P Foundational Knowledge Assessment. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, and Pearson's correlation. Results show that for both cohorts ~30% of students scored ≤55% and were potentially at risk of performing poorly in their anatomy and physiology studies. Pearson's correlation showed a significant relationship between students' performance on the foundational knowledge assessment and their anatomy and physiology assessments. For both cohorts, >10% of students identified by the A&P Foundational Knowledge Assessment were at risk of either failing the course, entering an extended degree program, or being excluded from the program. Results indicate that the assessment is a good predictor for differentiating medical students' performance in first-year anatomy and physiology. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The development of a foundational knowledge assessment tool to predict academic performance of medical students in first-year anatomy and physiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As planetary health education enters medical and health professional training, transversal implementation across curricula is critical in developing its full potential and enabling future health professionals to meet the social, environmental, and health challenges of current and future generations in an integrated manner. To advance the transversal implementation of planetary health education, our study proceeded through: (1) a sequence analysis of documents framing physiotherapy education to identify relevant nexus points; (2) an explorative implementation of planetary health into foundational anatomy and physiology modules identified as critical nexus points; (3) practical implementation during the 2021 autumn semester. Implementation in the operative foundations of healthcare education—anatomy and physiology—enables the emphasis of the ecological nature of human bodies and interconnection with our planetary environment. Musculoskeletal joints accentuate the relational nature of bodies highlighted across current research and traditional knowledges, as dynamically pervaded and in interaction with culture, technology, objects, ideas, plants, planets, etc. Teaching relational anatomies thus highlights planetary health as the transversal foundation of medical and healthcare education. Making this foundation more explicit will be critical for the transversal implementation of planetary health education and subsequent practice, as well as the fundamental shifts in our understanding of human lives and health they require. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historically, undergraduate anatomy and physiology (A&P) has been a challenging course for incorporating conceptual learning techniques due to large class sizes and an emphasis on content and terminology. The project utilized the Predict-Observe-Explain (POE) strategy to create short activities based on real-world scenarios that incorporated A&P course material with the overarching concept of homeostasis. A total of five activities centered around the concept of homeostasis were created for the first semester of an introductory undergraduate A&P course. In this article, we present the design and implementation process for the activities. Following each course unit, an activity was conducted to improve conceptual learning among students. Each POE was organized around a real-world scenario, and students were provided secondhand data to observe and analyze so they could generate evidence-based explanations. Students worked in groups to analyze data, including tables, graphs, schematics, charts, and graphics. We present feedback data collected from students on the utility of the activities. All activities and materials are included and implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

WS 5.2Difficulties in pregnancy: tips and tricks I. Reichler SP 1 sp ; S. Goericke-Pesch SP 2 sp SP 1 sp I Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland i ; SP 2 sp I Reproductive Unit - Clinic for Small Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany i Knowledge about the physiology of pregnancy is crucial for assessing maternal and foetal well-being and disorders of pregnancy. PIG REPRODUCTION WS 1.1 Implication of sperm chromatin integrity for embryogenesis in livestock M. Yeste; Y. Mateo-Otero; A. Delgado-Bermúdez; M. Llavanera; S. Recuero; A. Salas-Huetos; J. Ribas-Maynou I University of Girona, Girona, Spain i The main function of sperm cells is to transport the paternal genetic material to the oocyte, ensuring the delivery of an intact DNA. In physiological pregnancies, following natural mating or artificial insemination (AI), the maternal immune system is exposed to the presence of hemi-allogeneic embryos, i.e. embryos containing maternal self-antigens and foreign antigens from the paternal side. Pig allogeneic pregnancies (with embryos containing both paternal and maternal material foreign to the recipient female) occur during embryo transfer (ET), depicting high embryo mortality. [Extracted from the article]

T. Ntallaris SP 1 sp ; R. Båge SP 2 sp ; J. Karlsson SP 3 sp ; K. Holtenius SP 3 sp SP I 1 i sp I Ambulatory Clinic, University Animal Hospital, UDS, Uppsala, Sweden; i SP I 2 i sp I Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden; i SP I 3 i sp I Department of Animal Nutrition and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden i Early commencement of luteal activity (CLA) after calving will result in a high conception rate, decreased proportion of cows with extended lactations and less culling due to reproductive disorders. Alpoim-Moreira SP 1 sp ; C. Fernandes SP 1 sp ; J. Pimenta SP 2 sp ; M. Bliebernicht SP 3 sp ; M. Rebordão SP 4 sp ; P. Castelo-Branco SP 5 sp ; A. Szóstek-Mioduchowska SP 6 sp ; D. Skarzynski SP 6 sp ; G. Ferreira-Dias SP 1 sp SP I 1 i sp I Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, ULisbon, Lisboa, Portugal; i SP I 2 i sp I Unidade Estratégica de Investigação e Serviços de Biotecnologia e Recursos Genéticos (UEISBR), Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária, I. P. (INIAV), Oeiras, Portugal; i SP I 3 i sp I Embriovet, Muge, Portugal; i SP I 4 i sp I Coimbra College of Agriculture, Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; i SP I 5 i sp I Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (FMCB), University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, Faro, Portugal; i SP I 6 i sp I Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research PAS, Olsztyn, Poland i Endometrial fibrosis, as the main feature of endometrosis, might result from the imbalance between metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs); and between fibrolysis and fibrogenesis. Currently, the increased animal welfare awareness promotes animal-free teaching methodologies. [Extracted from the article]

Anecdotal data suggest great variation in breadth and depth of skeletal muscle coverage between undergraduate human anatomy (HA) and anatomy and physiology (A&P) courses. This manuscript is the second in a series (Reynolds A, Goodwin M, O'Loughlin VD. Adv Physiol Educ 46: 309-318, 2022. doi:https://doi.org/10.1152/advan.00084.2021) that methodically assesses skeletal muscle content coverage across undergraduate HA and A&P courses. The authors developed an online skeletal muscle coverage survey and collected 342 responses worldwide, 156 from instructors of HA courses and 186 from A&P course instructors. Demographic results showed that HA courses are primarily taught at 4-year baccalaureate institutions, have relatively larger class sizes, and are more likely to use human (vs. animal) prosections or dissections. In contrast, A&P courses are primarily taught at community colleges, have relatively smaller class sizes, and are more likely to use animal (vs. human) dissections. HA courses tend to require their students to learn all skeletal muscle aspects (i.e., identification, action, attachments, innervation), whereas A&P courses tend to focus on muscle identification or action only. The proportions of courses that require identification of large, superficial skeletal muscles are similar between the two course types. However, HA courses are more likely to require their students to identify deeper and smaller muscles, including more distal appendicular muscles and pelvic muscles. These differences likely are due, in part, to the more anatomical focus of HA courses and the slightly different student populations between these courses. These findings provide much-needed information about muscular system coverage between HA and A&P courses and may guide instructor discussions about curricula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of completing weekly coloring assignments, students enrolled in our Anatomy & Physiology I course significantly outperformed their previous-semester counterparts on the course's midterm final laboratory practical exams. Qualitative feedback from students suggests that students found the coloring assignments created a positive and relaxing atmosphere for the studying of anatomy. Overall coloring assignments increased student performance in this course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Headache disorders can produce recurrent, incapacitating pain. Migraine and cluster headache are notable for their ability to produce significant disability. The anatomy and physiology of headache disorders is fundamental to evolving treatment approaches and research priorities. Key concepts in headache mechanisms include activation and sensitization of trigeminovascular, brainstem, thalamic, and hypothalamic neurons; modulation of cortical brain regions; and activation of descending pain circuits. This review will examine the relevant anatomy of the trigeminal, brainstem, subcortical, and cortical brain regions and concepts related to the pathophysiology of migraine and cluster headache disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Punctoplasty is a common procedure in the management of punctal stenosis and was first described by Sir William Bowman in 1853. Several types of punctoplasty are described, and include 1-snip, 2-snip, triangular 3-snip, rectangular 3-snip and 4-snip procedures. The understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the punctum has greatly improved in the last decade aided by electron microscopic and molecular techniques. The use of minimally invasive modalities for primary cases is on the rise with successful preservation of the physiological functions of the punctum and canaliculus. The paper reviews the current anatomical and physiological evidence to present an alternative perspective. Given our evolving understanding, it may be time to debate the practice of performing routine punctoplasty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Monitoring the sublingual and oral microcirculation (SM-OM) using hand-held vital microscopes (HVMs) has provided valuable insight into the (patho)physiology of diseases. However, the microvascular anatomy in a healthy population has not been adequately described yet. Methods: Incident dark field-based HVM imaging was used to visualize the SM-OM. First, the SM was divided into four different fields; Field-a (between incisors-lingua), Field-b (between the canine-first premolar-lingua), Field-c (between the first-second premolar-lingua), Field-d (between the second molar-wisdom teeth-lingua). Second, we investigated the buccal area, lower and upper lip. Total/functional vessel density (TVD/FCD), focus depth (FD), small vessel mean diameters (SVMDs), and capillary tortuosity score (CTS) were compared between the areas. Results: Fifteen volunteers with a mean age of 29 ± 6 years were enrolled. No statistical difference was found between the sublingual fields in terms of TVD (p = 0.30), FCD (p = 0.38), and FD (p = 0.09). SVMD was similar in Field-a, Field-b, and Field-c (p = 0.20–0.30), and larger in Field-d (p < 0.01, p = 0.015). The CTS of the buccal area was higher than in the lips. Conclusion: The sublingual area has a homogenous distribution in TVD, FCD, FD, and SVMD. This study can be a description of the normal microvascular anatomy for future researches regarding microcirculatory assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During in vitro multiplication of horticulture plant species, synthetic cytokinins such as 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) can affect the microshoot formation. Murashige and Skoog culture medium (MS) can also act as a morphogenetic response modulator. The aim was to analyze the effects of BA and a gradient of MS salts on the morphophysiological status of Billbergia zebrina microshoots. Plantlets were cultured with a gradient of MS salts (50%, 100%, 150%, or 200%) supplemented with two BA levels (0 or 13 μM). After 50 days of culture, stomatal parameters, contents of photosynthetic pigments, and chlorophyll fluorescence were assessed. Plantlets cultured in all media without BA presented a low budding rate. In contrast, plantlets cultured with BA showed 100% budding. With 13 μM BA, the leaves presented bigger stomata and wider opening. Plantlets cultured with BA had lower contents of photosynthetic pigments. MS treatments without BA supplementation did not show any change in the pigments' ratios. Plantlets cultured with BA had lower activity of the water-splitting complex and signs of photoinhibition damage. This resulted in the reduced performance of the photosynthetic apparatus. BA exposure can ensure the inducement of adventitious microshoots. BA at the tested concentration can induce morphophysiological disorders, irrespective of MS salt concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geoffrey Burnstock was a biomedical scientist who gained renown for his discovery that adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP) functions as an extracellular signalling molecule. Born in London and educated at King's and University Colleges, he did postdoctoral work at Mill Hill and Oxford. He moved in 1959 to the Department of Zoology at the University of Melbourne because he sensed there a greater freedom to challenge established thinking in physiology. His group found that transmission from sympathetic and parasympathetic autonomic nerves to smooth muscle was in some places not mediated by the accepted chemical messengers (noradrenaline and acetylcholine). He amassed evidence that ATP was this non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic (NANC) transmitter, using biochemical, histological and electrophysiological approaches: heretically, he styled this 'purinergic transmission'. Geoff further upset dogma in the 1970s by proposing 'co-transmission' in which some nerves released ATP in addition to either noradrenaline or acetylcholine. He distinguished pharmacologically P1 receptors (activated best by adenosine and blocked by xanthines) and P2 receptors (activated best by purine nucleotides such as ATP) and he proposed in 1985 that the latter embraced P2X (ion channel) and P2Y (G protein-coupled) subtypes: about ten years later these categories were substantiated by cDNA cloning. From 1975 until his retirement in 1997, Geoff was head of Anatomy and Embryology at University College London (UCL), which he developed energetically into a large and strong research department. Later, as head of the Autonomic Research Institute at the Royal Free (part of UCL), he continued to collaborate extensively, and founded several journals and international professional societies. He widely sought clinical benefit for his discoveries, and both P2X and P2Y receptors have been developed as the targets of useful therapeutics (gefapixant, clopidogrel). Geoff was proud of his modest, rather humble, background and eschewed formality. He may have smiled when his early discoveries were met with cynicism, even ridicule ('pure-imagine' transmission noted one amusing critic), but this just reinforced his resolve and encouraged his encyclopaedic oeuvre. Geoffrey Burnstock was a biomedical scientist who gained renown for his discovery that adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP) functions as an extracellular signalling molecule. He amassed evidence that ATP was this non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic (NANC) transmitter, using biochemical, histological and electrophysiological approaches: heretically, he styled this 'purinergic transmission'. He may have smiled when his early discoveries were met with cynicism, even ridicule ('pure-imagine' transmission noted one amusing critic), but this just reinforced his resolve and encouraged his encyclopaedic oeuvre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clusia is a remarkable genus of Neotropical woody plants as its members engage in either C3 photosynthesis or employ, to varying degrees, crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis. Information about the evolutionary history of CAM in Clusia is scarce. Restriction site-associated sequencing of 64 species (20% of the genus) provided strong support for most of the previously recognized nine lineages. Ancestral reconstruction using maximum parsimony or maximum likelihood under a one-rate model suggested that CAM evolved at least four times independently from a most recent common ancestor (MRCA) with C3, whereas a maximum likelihood two-rate model suggested that CAM was already present in the MRCA followed by reversions to C3 in several lineages. Phylogenetic generalized least square analysis assessed variation in seven leaf anatomical traits and CAM activity measured as δ 13C. Results indicate that CAM is highly correlated with palisade mesophyll layer thickness and cell size. In addition, correlation between 19 bioclimatic variables and δ 13C was evaluated. It was found that CAM is positively correlated with habitats with a more severe dry season and greater precipitation seasonality. Since CAM is weakly and/or only periodically expressed in many Clusia spp. and thus not readily reflected in δ 13C, future analysis of phylogenetically-informed CAM expression in Clusia must include physiological measurements such as CO2 exchange and/or diel changes in leaf acidity for each species under investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a widely variable breadth of coverage of skeletal muscle content across both undergraduate human anatomy and undergraduate anatomy and physiology (A&P) courses. In response to the need for a more global understanding of the content taught in undergraduate anatomy courses, we developed an online survey (administered through Qualtrics) where both human anatomy and A&P faculty could report skeletal muscle coverage in their courses. The survey also collected comparative demographic institutional data such as the type of institution (community college vs. 4 year), course format, and geographic location of the undergraduate institution. Skeletal muscles surveyed included those listed and described in a typical undergraduate human anatomy text (McKinley MP, O'Loughlin VD, Pennefather O. Human Anatomy (5th ed.), 2017, p. 960). The data indicated some interesting instructional trends regarding muscular system coverage. First, both the "identification" and "action" of specific muscles are taught at a higher frequency than the teaching of either "attachments or innervation." Innervation of specific skeletal muscles is the least taught concept. In each body region, certain muscles were taught with higher frequency than others. This research shows there is a global trend in teaching identification of specific skeletal muscles within each body region and often this is accompanied by teaching actions of said muscles. These general instructional trends may increase our understanding of the anatomical and physiological education our undergraduate students are receiving and will lead to further critical conversations about content development and curriculum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zoological narratives of intersexualities ('hermaphroditism'), transformations of sex and same-sex sexual behaviours have long played significant roles in shaping ideas about sex more generally, for good and for bad. Eclectic references to sex-variant animals in classical and medieval texts traverse nebulous boundaries between fact and fantasy. Only slowly through the early modern era did observation supersede superstition. The discovery by English naturalist John Ray in 1660, that all slugs and snails were dual-sexed, situated hermaphroditism as an integral concern of naturalists as never before. Through the 1770s and 1780s, Scottish anatomist John Hunter inaugurated a new era in the medico-scientific study of sex, establishing intersexualities and transformations of sex as primary means of theorizing sex differences more broadly but delineating an overly sharp division between 'natural' and 'unnatural' hermaphrodites. He even suggested, albeit briefly, how the division of sexes from hermaphrodite origins might have happened biologically, a question that was subsequently pursued by evolutionists including Erasmus Darwin and Charles Darwin. In contrast, zoological descriptions of same-sex sexual behaviours were published only rarely prior to the 19th century, a prevailing misunderstanding that animals did not engage in such behaviours playing important roles in shaping 'natural law' and Christian theology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three paralogous genes for gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH; gnrh1, gnrh2, and gnrh3) and GnRH receptors exist in non‐mammalian vertebrates. However, there are some vertebrate species in which one or two of these paralogous genes have become non‐functional during evolution. The developmental migration of GnRH neurons in the brain is evolutionarily conserved in mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, and jawed teleost fish. The three GnRH paralogs have specific expression patterns in the brain and originate from multiple sites. In acanthopterygian teleosts (medaka, cichlid, etc.), the preoptic area (POA)‐GnRH1 and terminal nerve (TN)‐GnRH3 neuronal types originate from the olfactory regions. In other fish species (zebrafish, goldfish and salmon) with only two GnRH paralogs (GnRH2 and GnRH3), the TN‐ and POA‐GnRH3 neuronal types share the same olfactory origin. However, the developmental origin of midbrain (MB)‐GnRH2 neurons is debatable between mesencephalic or neural crest site. Each GnRH system has distinctive anatomical and physiological characteristics, and functions differently. The POA‐GnRH1 neurons are hypophysiotropic in nature and function in the neuroendocrine control of reproduction. The non‐hypophysiotropic GnRH2/GnRH3 neurons probably play neuromodulatory roles in metabolism (MB‐GnRH2) and the control of motivational state for sexual behavior (TN‐GnRH3). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Science and drawing have been paired for hundreds of years, and this synergy is still prevalent in research investigating the role of drawing for developing and assessing understanding. However, despite research at the primary and secondary levels of education, there is limited research on whether drawing facilitates learning at the undergraduate level, particularly in human biology. This subject is specifically important to focus on as it can be a core subject on some multidisciplinary programmes that do not require a science background at entry. The literature reviewed in this paper highlights that drawing tasks are well received by students and that they perceive the tasks to be helpful for their understanding. There is also some evidence that it might improve learning. However, this cannot be concluded with confidence due to some limitations with respect to comparison groups, including such a group being absent, using retrospective cohorts as a control, and not controlling for instruction between groups. Furthermore, some of the reported improvements in tests are practically very small. More work is warranted in this area as there is a risk that misconceptions can be passed on to students and between students using this type of teaching activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]