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Traditional Dipodomys (sub)species identification uses geography, phenotype, and external/skull measurements. Such measurements are correlated with size and thus redundant. I assessed the value of scaled cranial shape, based on two‐dimensional landmarks (analyzed using geometric morphometric methods) in distinguishing Dipodomys taxa, and in summarizing their variation. My dataset includes 601 adult specimens from 20 species (49 operational taxonomic units ‐ OTUs) across 190 localities. Cranial shape was highly useful in classifying Dipodomys taxa without considering geography. The auditory bulla was the most variable region—taxa differed in its hypertrophy, accompanied by different degrees of nearby structure crowding. Cranial shape was weakly allometric, with no significant sexual dimorphism. Weak size dimorphism was detected. (Sub)specific taxonomy is not reflective of shape variation, as the number of subspecies per species is not associated with disparity. Shape had significant phylogenetic signal, but subspecies did not always cluster with conspecifics and species did not always cluster according to phylogenetic relationship/taxonomy. Shape variation was correlated with climate, and species differed in morphological disparity and degree of specialization, which may contribute to divergence in shape variation patterns from phylogeny. D. deserti was the most specialized species, diverging greatly from the genus mean; D. heermanni was the least specialized. This study provides new insights into morphological variation of North American keystone species, several of conservation interest, for example, D. heermanni berkeleyensis, D. h. dixoni, D. nitratoides brevinasus, and D. n. nitratoides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jumping mice (subfamily Zapodinae) occur across most of North America (Zapus and Napaeozapus) and in confined regions in China (Eozapus). Recent molecular phylogenies have revised their taxonomy, raising some subspecies to full species and synonymizing others. This taxonomic revision has implications for subspecies conservation and management, since Z. hudsonius preblei and Z. h. luteus are legally protected by the United States federal Endangered Species Act (ESA), while Z. h. campestris and Z. trinotatus orarius are conserved in parts of their range. Several molecular studies have either synonymized Z. h. preblei with Z. h. campestris (and Z. h. intermedius) or grouped it with Z. h. alascensis and Z. h. tenellus as a widely distributed "Northern" lineage, arguing against its continued legal protection. However, genetic differentiation is a proxy for historical but not always adaptive distinctiveness, and the ESA considers both for conservation (i.e., Evolutionarily Significant Units). This study uses geometric morphometrics to compare adaptive distinctiveness of jumping mice subspecies. This compares scaled cranial shape, leading to insights that differ from linear measurements. For broader insights, cranial morphology was compared within jumping mice and with the closely related birch mice. Subspecies pairs within the three traditionally accepted Zapus species were ranked in order morphometric distinctiveness. The most distinct pair was found to be Z. h. preblei vs. Z. h. alascensis, members of the same genetic lineage. Other morphometrically distinct subspecies pairs were parts of the same or different genetic lineages, some having been elevated to full species. Other members of especially distinct pairs include Z. princeps oregonus, Z. p. saltator, Z. p. cinereus, Z. p. minor, Z. p. pacificus, and Z. p. idahoensis. Other aspects of adaptive distinctiveness should be examined in these subspecies for validation and to prioritize conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent phylogenetic studies amended the taxonomy of three-toed jerboas (subfamily Dipodinae), including raising subspecies to full species. Here, we use geometric morphometrics to compare scaled-shape differences in dipodine crania while considering their revised taxonomy. We sampled Dipus deasyi , D. sagitta halli , D. s. sowerbyi , Jaculus blanfordi blanfordi , J. hirtipes , J. jaculus , J. loftusi , J. orientalis gerboa , J. o. mauritanicus , and Stylodipus andrewsi. Crania were not sexually dimorphic. Common allometry explained some of the shape variation, for example, reduced braincases in larger specimens. Most operational taxonomic unit pairs differed in both size and shape. Dipus and Stylodipus clustered together based on their cranial shape. Jaculus differed from the aforementioned genera by its larger tympanic bulla, broader braincase, larger infraorbital foramen, along with reduced molars and rostra. Jaculus orientalis differed from other Jaculus by its broader face versus reduced cranial vault. Jaculus blanfordi (subgenus Haltomys) resembles members of the subgenus Jaculus more than its consubgener (J. orientalis). Jaculus loftusi , previously considered a synonym of J. jaculus , clearly differed from the latter by its shorter rostrum, smaller infraorbital foramen, and more caudolaterally expanded tympanic bulla. Jaculus hirtipes , another recent synonym of J. jaculus , resembled J. blanfordi more in scaled cranial shape than it did J. jaculus. Dipus sagitta halli and D. s. sowerbyi were indistinguishable, but they clearly differed from D. deasyi (recently raised to full species) with the latter having a larger molar row, more inflated tympanic bulla, and shorter, slenderer rostrum. Ecological explanations for detected cranial shape differences are considered, including diet and habitat (particularly substrate). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although testicular cancer (TC) is the most common malignancy in males between the ages of 18 and 50 years, little effort has been made to increase public awareness about TC and testicular self-examinations (TSEs). Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the level of awareness of TC and TSEs in the Saudi population. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed online through social media platforms. The questionnaire consisted of 11 questions related to TC and TSE. All relevant data were moved into an Excel sheet, and data analyses were carried out using SPSS. Results: A total of 849 responses were received. The proportion of respondents who knew any information about TC was 26.5%, with media or the Internet being the most common sources of information (16.3%). In addition, 5.5% of respondents knew how to perform a TSE, although only 4% actually performed TSEs. The patient age group was an independent significant predictor of this knowledge, with a P = 0.031. Conclusions: These findings suggest that there is a low level of public awareness and knowledge of TC and TSE in Saudi Arabia, and further efforts should be focused on raising public awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a rare and dangerous manifestation of central nervous system (CNS) infection caused by Scedosporium species. The infection typically occurs in immunocompromised individuals through hematogenous dissemination or local extension following trauma. CNS Scedosporium is resistant to many antifungal agents and can present as space-occupying lesions that resemble brain tumors on imaging. It is important to recognize this infection in immunocompromised individuals to avoid misdiagnosis. The article includes brain magnetic resonance imaging findings of a patient with CNS Scedosporium infection. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: Unknown etiology Background: Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is a rare clinical entity that presents with acute upper-gastrointestinal bleeding or chronic anemia. It is characterized by endoscopic watermelon appearance of the stomach. It is usually associated with other comorbidities; however, few articles have previously described GAVE in patients with end-stage renal disease. Its management is controversial, and endoscopic management is considered the treatment of choice. Case Report: A middle-age female patient, on regular hemodialysis for ESRD, was referred to the surgical out-patient clinic as a refractory GAVE after failure of endoscopic management as she became blood transfusion-dependent. She underwent laparoscopic subtotal gastrectomy with a Billroth II reconstruction of gastrojejunostomy. She had a smooth postoperative course and was followed up in the clinic for 12 months with no complications. Her hemoglobin level was stable at 9.4 g/dL without further blood transfusion. Conclusions: Gastric antral vascular ectasia is usually associated with other comorbidities; however, an association between GAVE and CKD is rare. Its management is controversial, and endoscopic management is considered the preferred method of treatment. Laparoscopic subtotal gastrectomy is an effective management modality for GAVE, with dramatic improvement and good outcomes in terms of bleeding, blood transfusion requirements, and nutritional status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt and pepper developmental regression syndrome (SPDRS) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by epilepsy, profound intellectual disability, choreoathetosis, scoliosis, and dermal pigmentation along with dysmorphic facial features. GM3 synthase deficiency is due to any pathogenic mutation in the ST3 Beta-Galactoside Alpha-2,3-Sialyltransferase 5 (ST3GAL5) gene, which encodes the sialyltransferase enzyme that synthesizes ganglioside GM3. In this study, the Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) results presented a novel homozygous pathogenic variant, NM_003896.3:c.221T>A (p.Val74Glu), in the exon 3 of the ST3GAL5 gene. causing SPDRS with epilepsy, short stature, speech delay, and developmental delay in all three affected members of the same Saudi family. The results of the WES sequencing were further validated using Sanger sequencing analysis. For the first time, we are reporting SPDRS in a Saudi family showing phenotypic features similar to other reported cases. This study further adds to the literature and explains the role of the ST3GAL5 gene, which plays an important role, and any pathogenic variants that may cause the GM3 synthase deficiency that leads to the disease. This study would finally enable the creation of a database of the disease that provides a base for understanding the important and critical genomic regions that will help control intellectual disability and epilepsy in Saudi patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Species‐level traits, such as body and range sizes, are important correlates of extinction risk. However, both are often related and are driven by environmental factors. Here, we elucidated links between environmental factors, body size, range size and susceptibility to extinction, across the whole order of rodents. Location: Global. Time period: Current. Major taxa studied: Rodents (order Rodentia). Methods: We compiled an unprecedentedly large database of rodent morphology, phylogeny, range size, conservation status, global climate and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), comprising >86% of all described species. Using phylogenetic regressions, we initially explored the environmental factors driving body size. Next, we modelled the relationship between body size and range size. From this relationship, we computed and mapped (at the assemblage level) an index of relative range size, corresponding to the deviation from the expected range size of each species, given its body size. Finally, we tested whether relative range was correlated with the risk of extinction of the species derived from an assessment by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Results: We found that, contrary to the expectations of Bergmann's rule, the body size of rodents was mostly influenced by variation in NDVI (rather than latitude/temperature). Body size, in turn, imposed a constraint on species range size, as evidenced by a triangular relationship that was segmented at the lower bound. The relative species range size derived from this relationship highlighted four geographical regions where rodents with small relative range were concentrated globally. We demonstrated that lower relative range size was associated with increased risk of extinction. Main conclusions: Species that, given their body size, are distributed across ranges that are smaller than expected have elevated extinction risk. Therefore, investigating the relationships between environmental drivers, body size and range size might help to detect species that could become threatened in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An approach guided by physical consistency in determining the general forms of D‐dimensional kinetic energy density functionals (KEDF) has been demonstrated previously, producing an expansion which contains the majority of the known one‐point KEDF forms. It has also been shown that any noninteracting KEDF must necessarily have a homogeneity degree of 2 in coordinate scaling, and that the ratio of the collective KED to electron density must approach the ionization energy as r→∞. This article demonstrates that the scaling condition is already satisfied in the general expansion despite not being conceived with the scaling as a constraint, and that the second condition places a restriction on the expansion terms of the KED. The discussion is extended as well for some known KEDs for comparison. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Space exploration is crucial for understanding our surroundings and establishing scientific concepts to explore, monitor, and save our planet's environment. However, the response of the human nervous system in the environment of space poses numerous challenges. Brain complexity explains the vulnerability and intrinsic difficulty of recalibration after disturbance. Over the millennia, the brain has evolved to function at 1-G. Studying the brain and its physiology in different environments may shed light on multiple conditions encountered on Earth that are yet to be solved and dictate collaboration at international levels. The nervous system is affected by several stressors due to microgravity, radiation, isolation, disruption of circadian rhythm, impaired sleep dynamics, and hypercapnia associated with space travel. In this article, we aim to review several aspects related to the nervous system in weightless conditions, as well as the development and future of the emerging field of "space neuroscience." Space neuroscience is a fascinating, embryonic field that requires significant development. The establishment of frameworks for the strategic development of space neuroscience is vital, as more research and collaboration are required to overcome these numerous and diverse challenges, minimize risks, and optimize crew performance during planetary operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dromedary camel fibers have long been utilized to make clothes, tents, ropes, mats, and carpets, however, only a minority of these fibers are currently used to produce textiles. Dromedary fiber classification based on quality traits is essential to investigate its textile potential. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to (1) develop a classification protocol for dromedary camel fibers based on crimp (i.e., shape), (2) investigate the characteristics of each fiber class using length, diameter, and medulla (i.e., the innermost hair layer) and (3) determine which fiber class is most suitable for the textile industry. Fiber samples were obtained from the mid-torso of 32 Arabian Peninsula camels of different types. Five crimp categories were identified (straight, C-shaped, wavy, ringed, and kinky). Across all crimp categories, the average length ranged from 20.20 – 43.93 mm whereas the mean fiber diameter ranged from 29.74 – 72.11 μm. Percent medullation extended from 68% to 100% with noticeable variation between crimp categories. Overall, fiber traits significantly differed between the crimp categories. Kinky hair was particularly distinct from the other crimp categories. The kinky crimp category is the most suitable dromedary fiber for the textile industry because its fibers are long, fine, and has the lowest percentage of medullated fibers. Hence, we recommend that selective breeding programs and genetic studies focus on the production of dromedaries with kinky hair fibers. • Quality assessment of dromedary camel fiber and classification are essential for assessing its textile potential. • Dromedary fiber crimps can be categorized into: straight, C-shaped, wavy, ringed, and kinky. • Overall, dromedary crimp categories differed significantly with respect to length, fiber diameter and medullation. • Kinky camel fibers are long, fine, and with very low medullation, which renders it comparable to that of cashmere fibers. • Crimp-type can assist in selective breeding programs for superior fibers and provide measurable phenotypes genetic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Joubert syndrome (OMIM:609863) is a hereditary disorder characterized by hypotonia, developmental delay, and a distinctive cerebellar and brain stem malformation known as the molar tooth sign. Variants in tectonic genes TCTN1-3 have been described in a few patients with Joubert syndrome. Furthermore, Joubert syndrome attributed to variants in the TCTN1 (NM_001082538.2) gene has been only described in two reports. This report expands the clinical variability and molecular characterization of an emerging novel causative gene for Joubert syndrome in a Saudi boy born to non-consanguineous marriage with a c.1418del p.(Pro473Leufs*42) and c.800A > G p.(Tyr267Cys) representing a novel compound heterozygous variant of the TCTN1 gene identified by whole-exome sequencing and confirmed by Sanger sequencing. This is the first report of compound heterozygous Joubert syndrome type 13 from Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Partner and localiser of BRCA2 (PALB2), also known as FANCN, is a key tumour suppressor gene in maintaining genome integrity. Monoallelic mutations of PALB2 are associated with breast and overian cancers, while bi-allelic mutations cause Fanconi anaemia (FA). In the present study, whole exome sequencing (WES) identified a novel homozygous missense variant, NM_024675.3: c.3296C>G (p.Thr1099Arg) in PALB2 gene (OMIM: 610355) that caused FA with mild pulmonary valve stenosis and dysmorphic and atypical features, including lymphangiectasia, non-immune hydrops fetalis and right-sided pleural effusion in a preterm female baby. WES results were further validated by Sanger sequencing. WES improves the screening and detection of novel and causative genetic variants to improve management of disease. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first reported FA case in a Saudi family with phenotypic atypical FA features. The results support the role of PALB2 gene and pathogenic variants that may cause clinical presentation of FA. Furthermore, the present results may establish a disease database, providing a groundwork for understanding the key genomic regions to control diseases resulting from consanguinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular phylogenies support the monophyly of Desmodilliscus braueri and Pachyuromys duprasi as a clade basally split from all other gerbillines. While this monophyly supports their placement in a single tribe (Desmodilliscini), no morphological synapomorphies exist among desmodilliscines. This study compares the scale-independent cranial shapes of these two species using geometric morphometrics to determine how they differ and/or converge. Tribal synapomorphies, should they exist, may appear as interspecifically invariable cranial regions. No such invariable cranial regions were detected. The two species significantly differed in cranial size and shape. A small part of shape variation was allometric, with a weak unique allometric effect. No sexual size nor shape dimorphism was found. The sister taxa greatly differed in almost all cranial features, with Pachyuromys (when compared to Desmodilliscus) having a larger-sized cranium, with a larger bulla and suprameatal triangle, a more posteriorly placed palatine foramina, and more anteriorly shifted (and reduced) rostral cranial structures, due to being crowded by the hypertrophied bulla. Cranial variation patterns are consistent with the literature. The extreme morphological divergence among these species is explained by the distant divergence time and ecological differences. Absence of cranial shape synapomorphies does not preclude synapomorphies in other craniodental morphological features (e.g., detailed morphology of the dentition and cranial foramina) or in other morphological structures, such as the postcranial skeleton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have demonstrated the pliability and adaptability of mammalian mandibles in response to different ecological demands such as food availability. The dwarf gerbil Gerbillus nanus has a wide distribution in Asia in which it encounters varied environments. These varied environments can house different food resources and it would be adaptively advantageous for the opportunistic rodents to have mandibles best suited for the most prevalent food resource. Geometric morphometric analysis was used to test this hypothesis by examining mandibular variation in 436 G. nanus specimens sampled from 44 localities. Based on this sample, mandibular morphology seems to be highly conserved in this species, with both size and shape being non-significantly different between pairs of geographic groups (i.e., locality clusters) and ecoregions. Mandibular size and shape are both not strongly predicted by 48 examined environmental variables. Despite this, the most variable aspect of mandibular shape was associated with its caudal regions, spanning from the coronoid process to the ventral mandibular border. These are regions of temporalis and masseter muscle attachments and thus mandibular variation could be associated with differential (potentially plastic) masticatory adaptations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We test whether geographical variation in the length of appendages in rodent species follows predictions of Allen's rule (a positive relationship between appendage length and temperature) at a broad taxonomic scale (order Rodentia). We also test whether the applicability of this rule varies based on the unit of analysis (species or assemblage), the appendage examined (tail, hind foot, ear), body size, occupied habitat, geographical range size, life mode and saltatorial ability. Location: World‐wide. Time period: Current. Major taxa studied: Rodents (order Rodentia). Methods: We assembled data on the morphology, ecology and phylogeny for ≤ 2,212 rodent species, representing c. 86% of all the described rodent species and c. 95% of the described genera. We tested the predicted Allen's rule associations among size‐corrected appendage lengths and both latitudinal and climatic variables (temperature and precipitation). We applied a cross‐species approach based on phylogenetic regressions and a cross‐assemblage approach based on spatial regressions in equal‐area 1.5° grid cells. Results: Support for Allen's rule was greatest for the tail and was stronger across assemblages than across species. We detected a negative relationship between tail length and (absolute) latitude, which was accounted for by a positive association between tail length and temperature of the coldest month. This association was greatest in desert species. In addition, we observed a negative relationship between ear length and precipitation. Main conclusions: In rodents, Allen's rule is confirmed only for tails, and this association seems to be driven by adaptation to the cold, rather than warm temperatures. Habitat type seems to influence conformity to this rule. Conformity to Allen's rule is likely to be the result of complex evolutionary trade‐offs between temperature regulation and other essential species traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dromedary camel is a unique livestock for its adaptations to arid-hot environments and its ability to provide goods under extreme conditions. There are no registries or breed standards for camels. Thus, named camel populations (i.e. camel-types) were examined for genetic uniqueness and breed status. Camel populations are generally named based on shared phenotype, country or region of origin, tribal ownership, or the ecology of their habitat. A dataset of 10 Short-Tandem Repeat markers genotyped for 701 individual camels from 27 camel-types was used to quantify genetic diversity within camel-types, compare genetic diversity across camel-types, determine the population genetic structure of camel-types, and identify camel-types that may represent true breeds. Summary statistics (genotyping call rate, heterozygosity, inbreeding coefficient F IS, and allelic frequencies) were calculated and population-specific analyses (pairwise F ST, neighbor-joining tree, relatedness, Nei's genetic distance, principal coordinate analysis [PCoA], and STRUCTURE) were performed. The most notable findings were 1) little variation in genetic diversity was found across the camel-types, 2) the highest genetic diversity measure was detected in Targui and the lowest was in Awarik, 3) camel-types from Asia (especially the Arabian Peninsula) exhibited higher genetic diversity than their counterparts in Africa, 4) the highest DeltaK value of population structure separated camel-types based on geography (Asia vs. Africa), 5) the most distinct camel-types were the Omani, Awarik, and the Gabbra, 6) camel-types originating from the same country did not necessarily share high genetic similarity (e.g. camel-types from Oman), and 7) camel-type names were not consistently indicative of breed status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "resource availability hypothesis" predicts occurrence of larger rodents in more productive habitats. This prediction was tested in a dataset of 1,301 rodent species. We used adult body mass as a measure of body size and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) as a measure of habitat productivity. We utilized a cross-species approach to investigate the association between these variables. This was done at both the order level (Rodentia) and at narrower taxonomic scales. We applied phylogenetic generalized least squares (PGLS) to correct for phylogenetic relationships. The relationship between body mas and NDVI was also investigated across rodent assemblages. We controlled for spatial autocorrelation using generalized least squares (GLS) analysis. The cross-species approach found extremely low support for the resource availability hypothesis. This was reflected by a weak positive association between body mass and NDVI at the order level. We find a positive association in only a minority of rodent subtaxa. The best fit GLS model detected no significant association between body mass and NDVI across assemblages. Thus, our results do not support the view that resource availability plays a major role in explaining geographic variation in rodent body size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) expert range maps and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) species occurrence data are commonly used to estimate species' geographic range. Macroecological studies often cross‐reference geographic range data with a climate dataset, to extract the mean environmental conditions encountered by a species within its geographic range. We aimed to assess the consistency of the environmental data estimates derived from IUCN versus GBIF geographic range data, and to test whether such differences may affect estimates of ecogeographical relationships, such as Bergmann's rule. Location: Worldwide. Time period: Around 2000. Taxa: Rodents (Rodentia). Methods: We first assessed the correlation between environmental data estimates (19 bioclimatic variables and elevation) derived from IUCN versus GBIF geographic range data of 1,315 rodent species, comparing how range size, conservation status, habitat, zoogeographic realm or elevation changed these correlations. Then, we compared the association between body mass and climate (mean temperature and precipitation) when the latter are derived from IUCN or GBIF data. Results: There was high correlation between environmental data estimates derived from IUCN versus GBIF data, especially when excluding GBIF occurrences outside of IUCN polygons. Species' characteristics, or using the mean or median, did not change the consistency between estimates. Overall, GBIF occurrence data and IUCN range maps produced similar patterns of body mass—climate correlations. Main conclusions: At the large spatial and taxonomic scale employed in this study, there does not seem to be any considerable differences in the average environmental data estimates derived from IUCN versus GBIF geographic range data. This result indicates that both sources of geographic range data could be used independently or in concert for macroecological inferences that involve summarizing species' niches by a single estimate of the average of their used environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dwarf gerbil (Gerbillus nanus) is broadly distributed in Asia, with a range that encompasses altitudinally diverse terrain, including two major mountain ranges. Previous studies have shown this species to be generally varied across its geographic range, both genetically and morphologically. Physical barriers (e.g. mountains) and geographic distance (i.e. isolation by distance [IBD]) are expected to reduce dispersal rates, and consequently could lead to cranial morphological differentiation among populations. Adaptation to local environments is also expected to lead to cranial morphological differentiation among populations. Here, I test these hypotheses by examining variation in cranial shape and size across the geographic distribution of G. nanus using geometric morphometric analysis. Based on a sample of 473 specimens from throughout its distribution, G. nanus populations do not seem to show biologically meaningful variation in cranial shape. Cranial size, on the other hand, did show geographic variation—yet, this variation does not seem to show strong patterns of IBD nor adaptation to local environments, which could indicate that the geographic variation in the cranial size of G. nanus populations may be accounted for by factors unexamined in this study. A geometric morphometric analysis of 473 specimens from throughout the broad distribution of the dwarf gerbil (Gerbillus nanus) detected no biologically meaningful variation in cranial shape. Cranial size did show geographic variation—however, this variation does not seem to show strong patterns consistent with isolation by distance, nor with adaptation to local environments, which could indicate that the geographic variation in the cranial size of G. nanus populations may be accounted for by factors unexamined in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Careful collection and organization of biological specimens and their associated data are at the core of field research (e.g., ecology, genetics). Fieldwork data are often collected by handwriting or unsystematically via an electronic device (e.g., laptop), a process that is time‐intensive, disorganized, and may lead to transcription errors, as data are copied to a more permanent repository. SamplEase is an iOS and Android application that is designed to ease the process of collecting biological specimen data in the field (data associated with biological samples, such as location, age, and sex). In addition to biological specimen data, SamplEase allows for the assignment of photographs to each collected sample, which provides visual records of each specimen in its environment. SamplEase outputs biological specimen data in a tabular format, facilitating subsequent analyses and dissemination. Despite the simplicity of SamplEase, no similar data management application is readily available for researchers. SamplEase is an iOS and Android application that is designed to ease the process of collecting biological specimen data in the field. SamplEase also outputs biological specimen data in a tabular format, facilitating subsequent analyses and dissemination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how organisms adapt to aridity is a central theme in traditional desert ecology research. However, many of the pioneering studies were conducted before detailed phylogenies were available to provide evolutionary context and before the accumulation of accurate bioclimatic and species distribution data to provide geographic and environmental context. We tested the desert-adaptive value of changes in skull and dental morphology in rodents after phylogenetic correction. In addition, we estimated that across the evolutionary history of more than 2,400 rodent species, transitions between mesic and desert habitats have been very frequent, with a directional bias toward the mesic-to-desert transition. This suggested that derived desert specialization is an "evolutionary dead-end" that limits further evolution. After correcting for the strong phylogenetic signal, we still find a significant and strong correlation between habitat aridity and specializations associated with auditory sensitivity (auditory bulla inflation) and respiratory water retention (nasal passage elongation) but not in characters associated with dietary specialization (lower incisor shape). No other significant associations were found between habitat or aridity and any other cranial, jaw, or dental traits. Bullar hypertrophy is among the strongest patterns of convergent cranial desert adaptation in rodents and indicates that adaptation plays a similar role in shaping the evolution of this structure in different desert rodent clades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The legal landscape of cannabis (marijuana) has dramatically changed over the past few years in several countries worldwide. Many patients now have legal access to products derived from cannabis. In the Middle East, Lebanon became the first Arab country to legalize cannabis for medical and industrial use recently in 2020. Other Middle Eastern and Arab countries continue to completely ban the use of cannabis and products derived from cannabis. This article is a call to conduct medical research in the use of cannabis for medical purposes to determine the suitability and need for this substance in the Arab world. Based on these studies, evidence-based recommendations can be made to the highest authorities in the Arab countries for legalization or continued prohibition. As the international use of cannabis is increasing, the Arab countries may consider legalization of the substance to cover the unmet medical need and offer an additional treatment option for certain conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jirds (Meriones) are a mostly desert-adapted genus of gerbils, with a wide geographic range, through which it encounters various climatic conditions, which may influence their morphology. In this study, we quantified cranial morphometric variation both within and among seven jird species (M. meridianus, M. hurrianae, M. crassus, M. tristrami, M. persicus, M. libycus and M. vinogradovi), based on a two-dimensional landmark-based geometric morphometric analysis of 972 specimens, covering their entire geographic distribution. The aforementioned analysis was used to compare sexual dimorphism in size and shape within each species, as well as the relationship between size and shape (i.e. allometry) for each species. Despite greatly overlapping in morphospace (when examined visually), statistical analysis indicates significant differences in both size and shape among the seven examined jird species. UPGMA and CVA both show two main species clusters. Deformation grids indicate that these two clusters differ mostly in the relative size of the tympanic bulla, along with differences in the extent of nasal elongation, and the broadness of the zygomatic arch. Allometric changes in shape were analyzed in all species that show an allometric relationship. Sexual dimorphism in shape and size was detected in only three of the seven jird species. A visual inspection of the data indicates high overlap in shape space, and that male skulls are significantly larger than female skulls. When specimens were divided by sex, we found significant allometry in six of the seven species (for both sexes). A factorial multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) indicated that even when taking size variation into account, the residual shape variation was also significantly different among the sexes of the examined species. The outcome of this study confirms the presence of cranial variation in the examined jirds, and that the patterns of sexual dimorphism and allometry vary considerably among jird species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global desert rodent communities were examined for evidence of phylogenetic and morphological community structure. Using geographical distribution data of desert rodents (within 15 assemblages), a composite molecular phylogeny and a geometric morphometric dataset of skulls, the mean pairwise distance and mean nearest taxon distance were calculated for each assemblage and compared with null communities. Community structure metrics detected phylogenetic clumping in two out of the 15 desert assemblages, indicating that co-occurring rodents were more closely related than expected by chance. No other assemblages showed a significant phylogenetic structure. Skull morphology had different structuring patterns, but overall, most examined desert assemblages were not significantly structured in skull morphology. Similar overall lack of community structure patterns was observed at the regional scale in both the phylogenetic and the body mass datasets. We also directly tested the association between phylogenetic and morphological structure and found it to be significant. The association between phylogenetic distance and increased diversity that we observed might indicate that niche partitioning facilities coexistence in diverse assemblages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The taxonomy of Gerbillus, the most speciose gerbil genus, is highly debated. Of particular contention is the relationship of Dipodillus to Gerbillus; some consider it to be a closely related genus, while others synonymize it with Gerbillus—either with or without recognizing it as a subgenus. The main objective of this study is to test the validity of common taxonomic groupings within the Gerbillus-Dipodillus species complex, which was achieved by using geometric morphometrics to examine cranial and mandibular variation in 34 out of the 52 Gerbillus-Dipodillus species. Craniomandibular size and shape were highly correlated, indicating strong allometric patterns in shape variation. The common taxonomic groups were significantly different in craniomandibular size and shape, yet they did overlap considerably in morphospace. A notable exception was the extreme divergence of Monodia (G. mauritaniae) from all other species in the occlusal view of the mandible. Morphospace overlap is likely a consequence of both phylogenetic history and environmental adaptation. Only the ventral cranium was associated with climate, particularly in areas related to resource acquisition. Geographic distance was not significantly associated with craniomandibular morphometric distance, and the groups overlapped greatly in their geographic range. Cranial and mandibular regions differed in discrimination power—the ventral cranium had among the highest, while the dorsal cranium and the occlusal mandible had the lowest. Craniomandibular regions varied in association with climate, phylogeny, and size—previous studies suggest this difference may be a consequence of different genetic controls for shape variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional dental theory predicts that tooth shape responds evolutionarily to the mechanical properties of food. Most studies of mammalian teeth have focused on qualitative measures of dental anatomy and have not formally tested how the functional components of teeth adapt in response to diet. Here we generated a series of predictions for tooth morphology based on biomechanical models of food processing. We used murine rodents (Old World rats and mice) to test these predictions for the relationship between diet and morphology and to identify a suite of functional dental characteristics that best predict diets. One hundred and five dental characteristics were extracted from images of the upper and lower tooth rows and incisors for 98 species. After accounting for phylogenetic relationships, we showed that species evolving plant-dominated diets evolved deeper incisors, longer third molars, longer molar crests, blunter posteriorly angled cusps, and more expanded laterally oriented occlusal cusps than species adapting to animal-dominated diets. Measures of incisor depth, crest length, cusp angle and sharpness, occlusal cusp orientation, and the lengths of third molars proved the best predictors of dietary adaptation. Accounting for evolutionary history in a phylogenetic discriminant function analysis notably improved the classification accuracy. Molar morphology is strongly correlated with diet and we suggest that these dental traits can be used to infer diet with good accuracy for both extinct and extant murine species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The infantile colic is a difficult experience met by parents in the first few months of an infant's life. This may lead to increased discomfort for infants as well as psychological distress for mothers. This study aimed at assessing the baseline knowledge of mothers in Saudi Arabia about infantile colic mainly in regard to the etiology and management. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was distributed among mothers in six primary healthcare centers (PHCC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during their visit for immunization clinics in 2016. The questionnaire consisted of two domains for determining the sociodemography characteristics and the maternal knowledge of participants about infantile colic. SPSS version 20 and chi-square test were used for data analysis. Results: A total of 230 mothers completed the survey questionnaire. Of these, 208 participants were Saudis. The majority of the participants were in the age group of 18-29 years (42.6%). The average age of the infants in this study was found to be 5.75±4.26 months. Eighty percent replied that they did not have any previous knowledge of infantile colic; 42.6% mothers believed that the causes of infantile colic were unclear and might involve several factors; 36% of the participants perceived milk allergy as the attributing cause for infantile colic. The source of knowledge about infantile colic was mainly through experiences of dealing with previous siblings who have the same issue (34.4%); 27.4% of mothers prefer the use of herbal medicines to treat this condition. Conclusions: It is recommended that health education needs to be provided to mothers at outpatient clinics during their antenatal hospital visits. This reduces the discomfort of infant and distress in mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pattern of increased body size in colder climates, or Bergmann's rule, is common in endotherms. However, empirical support has been mixed among clades, and it varies among taxonomic levels. Taking advantage of greatly improved phylogenetic resolution among rodents, we tested Bergmann's rule using 19 bioclimatic variables, and body mass data, for 1315 species on a recent supermatrix phylogeny. We did not find the predicted negative relationship between body mass and temperature. Instead, phylogenetic generalized least squares (PGLS) analysis indicated that precipitation variables (especially variables associated with primary productivity) had a positive correlation with body mass, suggesting that rodent species tend to be larger in more productive regions. Multivariate regression between body mass and overall climate (based on 19 bioclimatic variables) found a significant relationship, that was robust to phylogenetic correction. Bergmann's rule was not detected in smaller and surface-dwelling rodents (despite their greater exposure to external climate), any more than in larger and subterranean rodents. We suggest that food availability, and not heat conservation, is the more important mechanism driving body size variation across rodent species at the order level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of exceptionally diverse clades is often attributed to ecological opportunity. For example, the exceptional diversity in the most diverse superfamily of mammals, muroid rodents, has been explained in terms of multiple independent adaptive radiations. If multiple ecological opportunity events are responsible for generating muroid diversity, we expect to find evidence of these lineages ecologically diversifying following dispersal into new biogeographical areas. In the present study, we tested the trait-based predictions of ecological opportunity using data on body size, appendages, and elevation in combination with previously published data on biogeographical transitions and a time-calibrated molecular phylogeny. We identified weak to no support of early ecological diversification following the initial colonizations of all continental regions, based on multiple tests, including node height tests, disparity through time plots, evolutionary model comparison, and Bayesian analysis of macroevolutionary mixtures. Clades identified with increased diversification rates, not associated with geographical transitions, also did not show patterns of phenotypic divergence predicted by ecological opportunity, which suggests that phylogenetic diversity and phenotypic disparity may be decoupled in muroids. These results indicate that shifts in diversification rates and biogeographically-mediated ecological opportunity are poor predictors of phenotypic diversity patterns in muroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary During rain events, biocides and plant protection products are transported from agricultural fields but also from urban sources to surface waters. Originally designed to be biologically active, these compounds may harm organisms in aquatic ecosystems. Although several models allow either urban or agricultural storm events to be predicted, only few combine these two sources, and none of them include biocide losses from building envelopes. This study therefore aims to develop a model designed to predict water and substance flows from urban and agricultural sources to surface waters. We developed a model based on physical principles for water percolation and substance flow including micro- (also called matrix-) and macropore-flows for the agricultural areas together with a model representing sources, sewer systems and a wastewater treatment plant for urban areas. In a second step, the combined model was applied to a catchment where an extensive field study had been conducted. The modelled and measured discharge and compound results corresponded reasonably well in terms of quantity and dynamics. The total cumulative discharge was only slightly lower than the total measured discharge (factor 0.94). The total modelled losses of the agriculturally used herbicide atrazine were slightly lower (∼25%) than the measured losses when the soil pore water distribution coefficient (describing the partition between soil particles and pore water) ( K d ) was kept constant and slightly higher if it was increased with time. The modelled urban losses of diuron from facades were within a factor of three with respect to the measured values. The results highlighted the change in importance of the flow components during a rain event from urban sources during the most intensive rain period towards agricultural ones over a prolonged time period. Applications to two other catchments, one neighbouring and one on another continent showed that the model can be applied using site specific data for land use, pesticide application, weather and literature data for soil related parameters such as saturated water content, hydraulic conductivity or lateral distances of the drainage pipes without any further calibration of parameters. This is a promising basis for using the model in a wide range of catchments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent molecular studies in gerbils found multiple instances of discordance between molecular and morphological phylogenies. In this study, we analyse the largest molecular data set to date of gerbils and their sister group the deomyines to estimate their phylogenetic relationships. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian analyses were largely concordant, and both generally had high levels of node support. For gerbils, the results were generally concordant with previous molecular phylogenies based on allozymes, chromosomes, DNA/ DNA hybridization and DNA sequences, and discordant with morphological phylogenies. None of the traditional gerbil tribes and subtribes were monophyletic. In addition, paraphyly was found in the genera Gerbillus, Gerbilliscus and Meriones as well as in five subgenera within Dipodillus, Gerbillurus and Meriones. Short branches separating taxa in small clusters within Dipodillus and Meriones suggest synonymy. Within deomyines, all genera and subgenera were monophyletic; however, two species groups within Acomys appear to contain synonymous taxa. We also find support for the discordance between molecular and morphological phylogenies in gerbils being partly due to convergent adaptations to arid environments, primarily in the suite of traits associated with inflation of the tympanic bullae. Relative bullar size does appear to be a desert adaptation and is correlated with aridity independent of phylogeny. Further, it varies more strongly along bioclimatic clines than between binary habitat classifications (desert versus mesic). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutations of the tumor suppressor gene von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) can lead to benign and malignant tumors, including clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). To understand the progression of ccRCC, we generated a novel mouse Vhlh conditional knockout, using Hoxb7-driven Cre that is specific for the collecting ducts and a subset of distal tubules. These mice exhibited wide-spread epithelial disruption and interstitial inflammation as early as 2 months of age with high penetrance. Lesions are cystic, show severe fibrosis and display significant hyperplasia. An abundance of infiltrating macrophages and lymphocytes was detected. Interestingly, the Vhlh mutant lesions could be rescued when Hif-1α, but not Hif-2α, was also knocked out. In addition, administration of a JAK1/2 kinase inhibitor alleviated the Vhlh knockout phenotypes. Taken together, these results suggest that HIF-1α-dependent inflammation and fibrosis may be an early event in the development of ccRCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Desmodillus is monospecific, consisting of only the Cape short-eared gerbil (Desmodillus auricularis). Despite being widely distributed across southern Africa, previous studies did not find evidence of intraspecific phenotypic geographic differentiation. The objectives of this study is to use geometric morphometrics to investigate if and how the skull of D. auricularis varies spatially. It examines the covariation of skull morphology with broad spatial (latitude and longitude) and climatic variables, based on a sample of 580 specimens from southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa). The results did not support the differentiation of D. auricularis populations into distinct geographically isolated phenotypic groups. However, there is strong evidence for clinal variation in skull morphology; the most prominent pattern being a decrease in size from the west (closest to the South Atlantic coast) to the east (towards the continent's interior). Shape variation was not localized in any skull region and seem to be driven mostly by size (allometry), although it also covaried significantly with latitude and longitude. Statistically significant skull shape sexual dimorphism was also detected, with males having larger crania than females. Spatial clinal variation in skull morphology was mostly associated with differences in the aridity of the habitats relative to their distance from the coast as evidenced by precipitation-related bioclimatic variables—annual precipitation (BIO12), precipitation of driest month (BIO14), and precipitation of driest quarter (BIO17)—covarying the most with skull morphology. This could be driven by either the climate influencing local resources available to populations or by the climate directly instigating phenotypic climatic adaptations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Biocides and pesticides are designed to control the occurrence of unwanted organisms. From their point of application, these substances can be mobilized and transported to surface waters posing a threat to the aquatic environment. Historically, agricultural pesticides have received substantially more attention than biocidal compounds from urban use, despite being used in similar quantities. This study aims at improving our understanding of the influence of mixed urban and agricultural land use on the overall concentration dynamics of biocides and pesticides during rain events throughout the year. A comprehensive field study was conducted in a catchment within the Swiss plateau (25 km2). Four surface water sampling sites represented varying combinations of urban and agricultural sources. Additionally, the urban drainage system was studied by sampling the only wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in the catchment, a combined sewer overflow (CSO), and a storm sewer (SS). High temporal resolution sampling was carried out during rain events from March to November 2007. The results, based on more than 600 samples analyzed for 23 substances, revealed distinct and complex concentration patterns for different compounds and sources. Five types of concentration patterns can be distinguished: a) compounds that showed elevated background concentrations throughout the year (e.g. diazinon >50 ng L−1), indicating a constant household source; b) compounds that showed elevated concentrations driven by rain events throughout the year (e.g. diuron 100–300 ng L−1), indicating a constant urban outdoor source such as facades; c) compounds with seasonal peak concentrations driven by rain events from urban and agricultural areas (e.g. mecoprop 1600 ng L−1 and atrazine 2500 ng L−1 respectively); d) compounds that showed unpredictably sharp peaks (e.g. atrazine 10,000 ng L−1, diazinon 2500 ng L−1), which were most probably due to improper handling or even disposal of products; and finally, e) compounds that were used in high amounts but were not detected in surface waters (e.g. isothiazolinones). It can be safely concluded that in catchments of mixed land use, the contributions of biocide and pesticide inputs into surface waters from urban areas are at least as important as those from agricultural areas. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Cardiac resynchronisation therapy, associated with defibrillation therapy or not, has emerged as an effective treatment in heart failure patient.Cardiac resynchronisation technique can be difficult despite improvements in the implantation materials. Knowledge of the anatomy of the coronary venous network, especially the coronary sinus ostium and the distribution of the lateral branches could simplify device implantation. Coronarography with anterograde opacification of the coronary venous system could facilitate pre-selection of appropriate tools for coronary sinus and marginal vein catheterisation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: With the rapid development of computer technology, numerous simulation models have been developed for agricultural systems and farms. Nevertheless, most of them are rather appropriate for developed countries as they have considerable data requirements and often aim at optimizing farm resources, excluding the farmer’s household from the system. Yet, the latter is crucial for the understanding of semi-subsistence systems such as those found in developing countries. We present a dynamic model of an agricultural system in the Central Highlands of Nicaragua. It aims at giving a deeper insight into the functioning of the system and the constraints the latter is subject to. Such an approach helps to explain why farmers make certain choices. Although for the study area few data are available, a robust model with a one-day resolution could be designed. For simulation two groups of scenarios were chosen: (a) Minimum farm sizes for the production of a certain food supply (e.g. basic staples) were assessed and the impact of increased fertilizer use was estimated. (b) Monoculture farms were simulated with the main crops of the region. The production of calories, protein and added value were chosen as indicators. We determined the labour requirements for both groups of scenarios. Simulation results show that the latter is a limiting factor. This is true even for farming systems aiming at covering minimum needs (food, elemental health care and schooling) only. We can show that farmers’ strategies (e.g. crop mix, fertilizer application) are crucial for the system. Last but not least, we produce some evidence for the advantage of the current crop mix in the study region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• We use geometric morphometrics to classify camel breeds • We differentiated between two predefined breed groups using torso size and shape • Geometric morphometrics provided an alternative source of data for breed discrimination In this study, we examine the utility of image-based geometric morphometrics in classifying camel breeds. As a case study, we explore morphometric variation of six common Arabian Peninsula camel breeds ("Mezayen" breeds), traditionally named according to their coat color: Homor (red), Majaheem (black), Shaele (brown), Shageh (wheat), Sofor (smoky brown), and Waddeh (white). According to prior research, Mezayen breeds are often divided into two main groups: (1) the Majaheem breed alone and (2) the "Malaween" breeds, encompassing Homor, Shaele, Shageh, Sofor, and Waddeh breeds. Our main aim is to determine if we can find support for these two groups based on geometric morphometric analysis. We quantified the shape and size of each camel's torso based on landmarks and semilandmarks spanning their dorsolateral surface, from the root of the tail to the base of the neck. Landmarks and semilandmarks were digitized on photographs of 514 camels, sampled from > 23 breeders from various regions in Kuwait. The division of the Majaheem breed from the Malaween breeds was strongly supported. The Majaheem breed showed marked group homogeneity and significantly differed from all the Malaween breeds, while the Malaween breeds were largely heterogeneous, and did not significantly differ from each other. These results were supported by Procrustes ANOVA, between-group PCA, UPGMA cluster analysis, and Type-II ANOVA. Based on the TPS deformation grids, the Majaheem breed mainly differed from the Malaween breeds in the shape of the posterior part of the torso (the curvature from the tail root to the hump apex). We detected no significant allometry in shape variation, indicating no correlated variation of torso shape with size. This study demonstrates the usefulness of geometric morphometric analysis in camel breed classification. To utilize this method for camel breeding, further work is needed to determine whether our results could be generalized to other breeds, and to discover the combination of morphometric traits that best delineate breeds based on predefined breeding goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-humped camels are livestock of physical, physiological, and biochemical adaptations to hot desert environments and to water scarcity. The tolerance of camels to water deprivation and their exceptional capacity for rapid rehydration requires blood cells with membranes of specialized organization and chemical composition. The objectives of this study are to examine the changes in the area (a proxy for volume) of camel blood cells in solutions with decreasing concentrations of NaCl and consequently identify the conditions under which blood cells can be phenotyped in a large population. Whole-blood samples from three healthy adult female camels were treated with four different concentrations of NaCl and examined at six incubation-periods. Observationally, red blood cells in all treatments remained intact and maintained their elliptical shape while white blood cells experienced some damage, lysing at concentrations below 0.90%. Average basal (in 0.90% NaCl) RBC area was ~15 μm² and swelled in the various treatments, in some cases reaching twice its original size. Excluding the damaged cells, the average area of combined WBCs, ~32.7 μm², expanded approximately three times its original size. We find that camel WBCs, like their RBCs, are adapted to hypotonic environments, and are capable of expanding while maintaining their structural integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urethral stricture is defined as any abnormal narrowing throughout the entire length of the male urethra. Anterior urethral stricture is the most common site which accounts for more than 90% of cases in developed countries. One of the possible long-term outcomes of urethral stricture treatment is stricture recurrence. Refractory urethral strictures to initial management present surgical challenges to the reconstructive surgeon. It has been reported in the literature that buccal mucosal grafts in complex anterior urethral strictures have lately become a well-established management modality for bulbar and penile urethral strictures. Here, we are presenting an interesting case of a patient with a dual lumen urethra due to recurrent urethral stricture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: The objective of this work is to give epidemiological data, established in a prospective way, on the myocardial infarction in young and its risk factors. Methods: All patients admitted to the CHG of Pau for myocardial infarction, old, for the men of less than 45 years and for the women of less than 55 years, of November the 1st 2002 to October 31st, 2003, are included. Results: Twenty-seven patients (11.2%) do a myocardial infarction including 44.4% women. The found traditional risk factors are: smoking (92.6%), absence of regular physical activity (81.5%), dyslipidaemia (66.7%), family history of cardiovascular disease (48.2%), hypertension (37.0%), obesity (18.5%), oral contraception (11.1%), diabetes (7.4%), personal thrombotic history (7.4%). The principal emergent risk factors highlighted are: stress (66.7%), inhibitor of the activation of the plasminogene (57.1%), C-reactive protein (50%), lipoprotein a (41.7%), fibrinogen (33.3%), elevated plasma homocysteine (25%), excessive alcohol use (22.2%). None patients does not have an absolute cardiovascular risk>20%. The clinical characteristics, coronarographic data and the acute treatments were also listed. The prognosis is worse for the women with more risk factors, more complications, and risk of more significant ventricular replanning. Conclusion: The principal risk factors of the myocardial infarction in young can be modifiable. The prevention is of primary importance. The therapeutic education of the patients corresponds to the total assumption of responsibility required by this pathology. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Camels are livestock with unique adaptations to hot-arid regions. To effectively study camel traits, a biobank of camel DNA specimens with associated biological information is needed. We examined whole-blood, saliva (buccal swabs), and tail-hair follicle samples to determine which is the best source for establishing a DNA biobank. We inspected five amounts of each of whole-blood, buccal swabs, and tail-hair follicles in nine camels, both qualitatively via gel electrophoresis and quantitatively using a NanoDrop spectrophotometer. We also tested the effects of long term-storage on the quality and quantity of DNA, and measured the rate of degradation, by analyzing three buccal swab samples and 30 tail-hair follicles over a period of nine months. Good quality DNA, in the form of visible large size DNA bands, was extracted from all three sources, for all five amounts. The five volumes of whole-blood samples (20–100μl) provided ~0.4–3.6 μg, the five quantities of buccal swabs (1–5) produced ~0.1–12 μg, while the five amounts of tail-hair follicles (10–50) resulted in ~0.7–25 μg. No differences in the rate of degradation of buccal swab and tail-hair follicle DNA were detected, but there was clearly greater deterioration in the quality of DNA extracted from buccal swabs when compared to tail-hair follicles. We recommend using tail-hair samples for camel DNA biobanking, because it resulted in both an adequate quality and quantity of DNA, along with its ease of collection, transportation, and storage. Compared to its success in studies of other domesticated animals, we anticipate that using ~50 tail-hair follicles will provide sufficient DNA for sequencing or SNP genotyping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Musladin-Lueke syndrome ( MLS), previously termed Chinese Beagle syndrome, is an autosomal-recessive connective tissue disorder characterized by extensive fibrosis of the skin and joints that was first identified in Beagles in the 1970s. Recent research identified a founder mutation (c.660C>T; p.R221C) in the ADAMTSL2 gene in Beagles with MLS. Here, we report the detailed clinical phenotype and laboratory findings in 2 Beagles affected with MLS. We discuss these findings in relation to the human disorder geleophysic dysplasia ( GD), which also arises from recessive ADAMTSL2 mutations, and recent findings in Adamtsl2-deficient mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ascorbate (Asc) as a single agent suppressed growth of several tumor cell lines in a mouse model. It has been tested in a Phase I Clinical Trial on pancreatic cancer patients where it exhibited no toxicity to normal tissue yet was of only marginal efficacy. The mechanism of its anticancer effect was attributed to the production of tumoricidal hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) during ascorbate oxidation catalyzed by endogenous metalloproteins. The amount of H 2 O 2 could be maximized with exogenous catalyst that has optimized properties for such function and is localized within tumor. Herein we studied 14 Mn porphyrins (MnPs) which differ vastly with regards to their redox properties, charge, size/bulkiness and lipophilicity. Such properties affect the in vitro and in vivo ability of MnPs (i) to catalyze ascorbate oxidation resulting in the production of H 2 O 2 ; (ii) to subsequently employ H 2 O 2 in the catalysis of signaling proteins oxidations affecting cellular survival pathways; and (iii) to accumulate at site(s) of interest. The metal-centered reduction potential of MnPs studied, E 1/2 of Mn III P/Mn II P redox couple, ranged from −200 to +350 mV vs NHE. Anionic and cationic, hydrophilic and lipophilic as well as short- and long-chained and bulky compounds were explored. Their ability to catalyze ascorbate oxidation, and in turn cytotoxic H 2 O 2 production, was explored via spectrophotometric and electrochemical means. Bell-shape structure-activity relationship (SAR) was found between the initial rate for the catalysis of ascorbate oxidation, v o (Asc) ox and E 1/2 , identifying cationic Mn(III) N -substituted pyridylporphyrins with E 1/2 >0 mV vs NHE as efficient catalysts for ascorbate oxidation. The anticancer potential of MnPs/Asc system was subsequently tested in cellular (human MCF-7, MDA-MB-231 and mouse 4T1) and animal models of breast cancer. At the concentrations where ascorbate (1 mM) and MnPs (1 or 5 µM) alone did not trigger any alteration in cell viability, combined treatment suppressed cell viability up to 95%. No toxicity was observed with normal human breast epithelial HBL-100 cells. Bell-shape relationship, essentially identical to v o (Asc) ox vs E 1/2 , wa s also demonstrated between MnP/Asc-controlled cytotoxicity and E 1/2 -controlled v o (Asc) ox . Magnetic resonance imaging studies were conducted to explore the impact of ascorbate on T1-relaxivity. The impact of MnP/Asc on intracellular thiols and on GSH/GSSG and Cys/CySS ratios in 4T1 cells was assessed and cellular reduction potentials were calculated. The data indicate a significant increase in cellular oxidative stress induced by MnP/Asc. Based on v o (Asc) ox vs E 1/2 relationships and cellular toxicity, MnTE-2-PyP 5+ was identified as the best catalyst among MnPs studied. Asc and MnTE-2-PyP 5+ were thus tested in a 4T1 mammary mouse flank tumor model. The combination of ascorbate (4 g/kg) and MnTE-2-PyP 5+ (0.2 mg/kg) showed significant suppression of tumor growth relative to either MnTE-2-PyP 5+ or ascorbate alone. About 7-fold higher accumulation of MnTE-2-PyP 5+ in tumor vs normal tissue was found to contribute largely to the anticancer effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The most extreme specializations to terrestriality evolved twice. • Intermediate morphologies are independent adaptions to living in mud or the water margin, rather than transitional forms. • Oxudercinae (mudskippers) and Amblyopinae (eel gobies) are reciprocally paraphyletic; Oxudercinae is a junior synonym. The initial vertebrate conquest of land by stegocephalians (Sarcopterygia) allowed access to new resources and exploitation of untapped niches precipitating a major phylogenetic diversification. However, a paucity of fossils has left considerable uncertainties about phylogenetic relationships and the eco-morphological stages in this key transition in Earth history. Among extant actinopterygians, three genera of mudskippers (Gobiidae: Oxudercinae), Boleophthalmus, Periophthalmus and Periophthalmodon are the most terrestrialized, with vertebral, appendicular, locomotory, respiratory, and epithelial specializations enabling overland excursions up to 14 h. Unlike early stegocephalians, the ecologies and morphologies of the 45 species of oxudercines are well known, making them viable analogs for the initial vertebrate conquest of land. Nevertheless, they have received little phylogenetic attention. We compiled the largest molecular dataset to date, with 29 oxudercine species, and 5 nuclear and mitochondrial loci. Phylogenetic and comparative analyses revealed strong support for two independent terrestrial transitions, and a complex suit of ecomorphological forms in estuarine environments. Furthermore, neither Oxudercinae nor their presumed sister-group the eel gobies (Amblyopinae, a group of elongated gobies) were monophyletic with respect to each other, requiring a merging of these two subfamilies and revealing an expansion of phenotypic variation within the "mudskipper" clade. We did not find support for the expected linear model of ecomorphological and locomotory transition from fully aquatic, to mudswimming, to pectoral-aided mudswimming, to lobe-finned terrestrial locomotion proposed by earlier morphological studies. This high degree of convergent or parallel transitions to terrestriality, and apparent divergent directions of estuarine adaptation, promises even greater potential for this clade to illuminate the conquest of land. Future work should focus on these less-studied species with "transitional" and other mud-habitat specializations to fully resolve the dynamics of this diversification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human activity results in the production of a wide range of pollutants that can enter the water cycle through stormwater or wastewater. Among others, heavy metals are still detected in high concentrations around urban areas and their impact on aquatic organisms is of major concern. In this study, we propose to use a substance flow analysis as a tool for heavy metals management in urban areas. We illustrate the approach with the case of copper in Lausanne, Switzerland. The results show that around 1,500 kg of copper enter the aquatic compartment yearly. This amount contributes to sediment enrichment, which may pose a long-term risk for benthic organisms. The major sources of copper in receiving surface water are roofs and catenaries of trolleybuses. They represent 75% of the total input of copper into the urban water system. Actions to reduce copper pollution should therefore focus on these sources. Substance flow analysis also highlights that copper enters surface water mainly during rain events, i.e., without passing through any treatment procedure. A reduction in pollution could also be achieved by improving stormwater management. In conclusion, the study showed that substance flow analysis is a very effective tool for sustainable urban water management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary. Sperm-cell volume, measured electronically by cell counter, is a parameter providing information about the state and integrity of the plasma membrane by determining cell osmotic reactivity (swelling level). Electronic volume measurement is a modification of the hypo-osmotic swelling test, based on the increase in sperm volume in response to hypo-osmotic stress. In this study the volumetric method was applied to bull ejaculates, and the relationships of volumetric parameters, osmolality of seminal plasma, and concentration of sodium and potassium ions in seminal plasma, with the nonreturn rate (NRR) were examined. Significant correlations were found between volumetric parameters, conventional spermatological parameters, and NRR. The relative volume shift of the mean volume correlated significantly with motility before and after thawing (P < 0.05). NRR correlated significantly with iso-osmotic cell volume (- 0.49; P < 0.05) and with the relative volume shift (0.51, P < 0.05). The prediction level of regression models was improved when volumetric parameters (iso-osmotic cell volume) were included in the multiple regression model. Therefore, using electronic volume measurement as a component for fast, correct and valid (up to 50 000 cells), recording sperm-cell population may help to evaluate ejaculate quality more precisely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The method of material flux analysis is applied as an instrument for the early recognition of environmental problems in an urban region of developing countries. It is shown that, even with poor data quality and quantity, it is possible to apply the method in Tunja, an urban region in Colombia. With sensitivity analysis monitoring points are developed to attain 'early recognition' concerning changes in water quality and quantity in this region. Using the scenario technique it is shown that, owing to the low dilution capacity for sewage in the region, surface water cannot reach the quality of water at a natural state even if technical measures used in industrialized countries are taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]