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Abstract Background Over their evolutionary history, corals have adapted to sea level rise and increasing ocean temperatures, however, it is unclear how quickly they may respond to rapid change. Genome structure and genetic diversity contained within may highlight their adaptive potential. Results We present chromosome-scale genome assemblies and linkage maps of the critically endangered Atlantic acroporids, Acropora palmata and A. cervicornis. Both assemblies and linkage maps were resolved into 14 chromosomes with their gene content and colinearity. Repeats and chromosome arrangements were largely preserved between the species. The family Acroporidae and the genus Acropora exhibited many phylogenetically significant gene family expansions. Macrosynteny decreased with phylogenetic distance. Nevertheless, scleractinians shared six of the 21 cnidarian ancestral linkage groups as well as numerous fission and fusion events compared to other distantly related cnidarians. Genetic linkage maps were constructed from one A. palmata family and 16 A. cervicornis families using a genotyping array. The consensus maps span 1,013.42 cM and 927.36 cM for A. palmata and A. cervicornis, respectively. Both species exhibited high genome-wide recombination rates (3.04 to 3.53 cM/Mb) and pronounced sex-based differences, known as heterochiasmy, with 2 to 2.5X higher recombination rates estimated in the female maps. Conclusions Together, the chromosome-scale assemblies and genetic maps we present here are the first detailed look at the genomic landscapes of the critically endangered Atlantic acroporids. These data sets revealed that adaptive capacity of Atlantic acroporids is not limited by their recombination rates. The sister species maintain macrosynteny with few genes with high sequence divergence that may act as reproductive barriers between them. In the Atlantic Acropora, hybridization between the two sister species yields an F1 hybrid with limited fertility despite the high levels of macrosynteny and gene colinearity of their genomes. Together, these resources now enable genome-wide association studies and discovery of quantitative trait loci, two tools that can aid in the conservation of these species.

The title organic–inorganic hybrid salt, C2H7IN+·I−, is isotypic with its bromine analog, C2H7BrN+·Br− [Semenikhin et al. (2024). Acta Cryst. E80, 738–741]. Its asymmetric unit consists of one 2-iodoethylammonium cation and one iodide anion. The NH3+ group of the organic cation forms weak hydrogen bonds with four neighboring iodide anions, leading to the formation of supramolecular layers propagating parallel to the bc plane. Hirshfeld surface analysis reveals that the most important contribution to the crystal packing is from N—H...I interactions (63.8%). The crystal under investigation was twinned by a 180° rotation around [001].

Abstract BackgroundIn our aging population, primary care is under pressure to remain accessible to all. Effective use of digital health care could potentially lower general practitioners’ (GPs) workload. Some general practices are already implementing a digital health platform as a primary method to contact their patients. However, it is unknown how older people experience this novel way to communicate with their GP. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to study the experiences of patients aged 65 years and older in general practices who use digital health as a primary communication tool. The secondary aims were to identify barriers and facilitators for the use of digital health care and whether a practice focus on digital health influences older patients’ choice to enlist. MethodsWe invited all patients aged 65 years and older at 2 general practices in Amsterdam that work with a novel digital health platform. We used purposive sampling to select a heterogeneous group of patients in terms of age, sex, level of education, digital literacy, and experiences with the digital app of their general practice. We conducted 18 semistructured interviews from May through July 2023. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed. ResultsWe generated three themes: (1) experiences of older people with digital health care in general practice, (2) impact of individual factors on digital health experiences, and (3) reasons for choosing a digitally oriented general practice. Participants reported both positive and negative experiences. The main perceived advantages of the digital health platform were increased accessibility, direct GP contact without an intermediary, and saving time through asynchronous communication. The disadvantages mentioned were log-in difficulties and problems with the automated explanatory questionnaire. Individual factors such as age, digital literacy, and expectations of general practice care seemed to impact people’s experiences and could act as barriers or facilitators for using digital health. Reasons for older patients to enlist at a general practice were mainly practical. The digital orientation of the practice hardly played a role in this choice. ConclusionsOlder patients in general practice see benefits to using a digital health platform that offers 2-way chat-based communication between the patient and GP. We found that individual factors such as skills, norms and values, attitudes toward digitalization, and expectations of general practice care impacted older patients’ experiences with digital health care. For many older participants, the digital profile of the general practice did not play a role in their choice to enlist. Further improvement of digital health platforms will be necessary to ensure digital health for all in general practice.

Neonicotinoid insecticides, the fastest-growing class in recent decades, interfere with cholinergic neurotransmission by binding to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. This disruption affects both targeted and non-targeted insects, impairing cognitive functions such as olfaction and related behaviors, with a particular emphasis on olfactory memory due to its ecological impact. Despite the persistent presence of these chemicals in the environment, significant research gaps remain in understanding the intricate interplay between cognitive function, development, neuronal activity, and neonicotinoid-induced toxicity. This study focuses on the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, chosen for its genetic tractability, well-characterized neural circuitry, and remarkable parallels with bees in neurotransmitter systems and brain structures. Our aim is to establish the fruit fly as a valuable model organism for studying the effects of neonicotinoids on behavior and neuronal circuitry, with particular attention to olfactory memory and associated brain circuitries. To achieve this aim, we conducted experiments to investigate the effects of short-term exposure to sublethal doses of the neonicotinoid imidacloprid, mimicking realistic environmental insecticide exposure, on the formation of odor memories. Additionally, we evaluated synaptic contacts and cholinergic neurotransmission within the mushroom body, the primary memory network of insects. Our results showed significant impairments in odor memory formation in flies exposed to imidacloprid, with exposure during the adult stage showing more pronounced effects than exposure during the larval stage. Additionally, functional studies revealed a decrease in synaptic contacts within the intrinsic olfactory projection neurons and the mushroom body. Furthermore, another experiment showed an odor-dependent reduction in cholinergic neurotransmission within this network. In summary, employing Drosophila as a model organism provides a robust framework for investigating neonicotinoid effects and understanding their diverse impacts on insect physiology and behavior. Our study initiates the establishment of the fruit fly as a pivotal model for exploring neonicotinoid influences, shedding light on their effects on olfactory memory, neuronal integrity, and synaptic transmission.

IntroductionPandemic-related public health restrictions limited older adults’ physical activity programs and opportunities. Physical activity supports shifted to remote options, however, information on their adoption and effectiveness is limited. This study aims to describe the remote supports received by older adults and their perceived effectiveness. Additionally, it aims to describe facilitators and barriers to remote supports for physical activity among older adults, particularly those reliant on technology.MethodsThis study used an explanatory, sequential, mixed-methods design. Community-dwelling older adults (≥ 60 years) were recruited to partake in a web-based survey and an optional semi-structured follow-up interview informed by the COM-B model. Participant characteristics, perceived effectiveness of remote supports, and the presence and severity of barriers were described. Changes in physical activity levels before and during the pandemic were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Qualitative data underwent inductive thematic analysis.ResultsFifty seven older adults (68.3 ± 7.1 years, 43 Female) completed the survey, of which 15 participants (67.4 ± 5.8 years, 12 Female) participated in interviews. The majority were Caucasian, highly educated, and resided in Canada. Total physical activity levels showed no statistically significant change from before to during the pandemic (p = 0.74); however, at-home exercise participation and technology usage increased. Pre-recorded and real-time virtual exercise supports were perceived as most effective. Main barriers included limited contact with exercise professionals, limited access to exercise equipment or space, and decreased mental wellness. Thematic analysis identified five main themes: (i) Enabled by knowledge and resources; (ii) Diverse motivations for physical activity; (iii) Fostering participation through social connection; (iv) Supervision and safety: enabling adherence; and (v) Virtual exercise: a sustainable option with technological considerations.ConclusionVirtual platforms show promise in supporting older adults’ physical activity at home, especially for those with limited in-person access. Our study suggests that both real-time and pre-recorded virtual exercise supports are feasible, depending on technological capacity and support. While interactive real-time virtual programs allow interaction with professionals and peers, pre-recorded programs provide timing flexibility. Further research is needed to establish best practices for safe and effective virtual exercise programming, promoting its long-term adoption for supporting a wider range of older adults.

Abstract Background Eating in absence of hunger is quite common and often associated with an increased energy intake co-existent with a poorer food choice. Intuitive eating (IE), i.e., eating in accordance with internal hunger and satiety cues, may protect from overeating. IE, however, requires accurate perception and processing of one’s own bodily signals, also referred to as interoceptive sensitivity. Training interoceptive sensitivity might therefore be an effective method to promote IE and prevent overeating. As most studies on eating behavior are conducted in younger adults and close social relationships influence health-related behavior, this study focuses on middle-aged and older couples. Methods The present pilot randomized intervention study aims at investigating the feasibility and effectiveness of a 21-day mindfulness-based training program designed to increase interoceptive sensitivity. A total of N = 60 couples participating in the NutriAct Family Study, aged 50–80 years, will be recruited. This randomized-controlled intervention study comprises three measurement points (pre-intervention, post-intervention, 4-week follow-up) and a 21-day training that consists of daily mindfulness-based guided audio exercises (e.g., body scan). A three-arm intervention study design is applied to compare two intervention groups (training together as a couple vs. training alone) with a control group (no training). Each measurement point includes the assessment of self-reported and objective indicators of interoceptive sensitivity (primary outcome), self-reported indicators of intuitive and maladaptive eating (secondary outcomes), and additional variables. A training evaluation applying focus group discussions will be conducted to assess participants’ overall acceptance of the training and its feasibility. Discussion By investigating the feasibility and effectiveness of a mindfulness-based training program to increase interoceptive sensitivity, the present study will contribute to a deeper understanding of how to promote healthy eating in older age. Trial registration German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), no. DRKS00024903. Retrospectively registered on April 21, 2021.

Given the rapid, global decline in the health and abundance of coral reefs, increased investments in restoration-based interventions -including asexual and sexual propagation- are being made by coral reef scientists at research institutions, but also at zoos and aquariums. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is an independent, non-profit marine science organization dedicated to the conservation and restoration of Florida’s Coral Reef, and does so, using science-based strategies. In order to promote the long-term persistence, resilience, and adaptive potential of restored coral populations on Florida’s Coral Reef, Mote scientists are performing critical research and restoration activities related to assisted sexual reproduction (ASR). The objective of this study was to optimize ASR of Acropora cervicornis by (1) evaluating broodstock compatibility for genets actively used within Mote’s restoration gene pool, (2) optimizing larval settlement by testing spectral cues, (3) and optimizing the grow-out of sexual recruits by testing the impact of light on growth, survival, and algal symbiont uptake in the presence of adult corals or not. Overall, we found that corals and genets spawned with high synchrony, both within and across years, and in terms of predicted spawning times related to nights after the full moon and minutes after sunset. Across two years, overall fertilization success was high (~95%), but we did find one pair of genets that was not compatible. During settlement, larvae preferred pink and purple-colored substrates, which was consistent with our expectation that they would select substrates similar in color to crustose coralline algae (CCA). Interestingly though, they only did so when a matching chemical cue from CCA was also present, indicating that larvae integrate multiple cues simultaneously to determine the most appropriate place to settle. Growth and symbiont uptake were faster in recruits reared in the presence of adult corals and additional lighting, but survivorship was not different through the first ten weeks post-settlement between treatments. A subset of corals was outplanted using two different techniques based on single or clustered corals. We report the initial 1-month survival results. We also provide a detailed protocol and general recommendations for ASR based on years of coral sexual propagation experience.

As assisted sexual reproduction interventions continue to become embedded within coral reef restoration initiatives, it is important to understand the potential for trade-offs between key traits like reproductive output and disease resistance. Oocyte size and fecundity, quantitative measures of reproductive output and important life-history traits, can be used as proxies for coral reproductive success and health. Sexual reproduction, particularly gametogenesis, is an energetically costly process and at the physiological level, trade-offs are caused by competitive allocation of limited resources to various functions. However, resource allocation trade-offs may also have a genetic basis, and thus, different genets may differ in these aspects. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the reproductive output of A. cervicornis genets with known white-band disease resistance or susceptibility by quantifying the number and size of oocytes within colonies maintained within Mote Marine Laboratory’s offshore coral spawning nursery in the Lower Florida Keys, USA. We also quantified the number of eggs and sperm packaged within gamete bundles that were collected during the August 2020 spawning event. Consistent with previous studies, we found a positive correlation between colony size and fecundity. Interestingly though, we found no evidence for a trade-off between disease resistance and reproductive output and instead found a negative correlation between disease susceptibility and oocyte size. These data are relevant for population management interventions and for managing broodstock used for active restoration where a suite of corals with different genotypes and phenotypes are continuously propagated and outplanted. Having a more comprehensive understanding of the fitness differences among candidates can help guide such efforts and ensure that a diversity of fit genets is used for restoration, which should ultimately support greater adaptive potential and population resilience.

Magdalena Pawelczyk-Madalińska,1– 3,* Stefano Benedicenti,1 Tudor Sălăgean,4 Ioana Roxana Bordea,5 Reem Hanna1,6,* 1Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, Laser Therapy Centre, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; 2Department of Periodontology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, 70-204, Poland; 3FAN-DENT Centrum Stomatologii i Periodontologii, Gdańsk, 80-257, Poland; 4Department of Land Measurements and Exact Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 5Department of Oral Rehabilitation, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 6Department of Oral Surgery, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Reem HannaDepartment of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, Laser Therapy Centre, University of Genoa, Genoa, ItalyTel +39 0103537446Email reemhanna@hotmail.comTudor SălăgeanDepartment of Land Measurements and Exact Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, RomaniaTel +40 744707371Email tudor.salagean@usamvcluj.roBackground: Due to the limitations of scaling and root planing (SRP) in chronic periodontitis (CP) management, research has been focused on utilising additional therapies to enhance conventional treatment methods. The present systematic review is aimed to appraise the accessible scientific evidence of in vivo human studies to establish the effectiveness of adjunctive diode (λ 808- λ 980nm) laser treatment to SRP in CP.Methodology: This systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA statement guidelines. The review protocol is registered in PROSPERO (CRD 42021227695). The search strategies were based on structured electronic and manual (with appropriate keywords) and were conducted to collect the applicable published data on RCTs studies (in vivo human), spanning over ten years between August 2010 and August 2020. The articles were selected to address the following research focus question: “Does diode laser (λ 808- λ 980nm) therapy have superior effects as an adjunct to SPR, compared to SRP alone, in terms of clinical or microbiological or immunological profiles in the management of CP?”Results: Fifteen articles met the eligibility criteria and are included in this review. A wide range of discrepancies and inconsistencies were shown in the outcomes of the laser and SPR treatment modality, compared to SRP alone. The data on standardised study protocol, optimal laser parameters and outcome measurements were inconclusive, and a high risk of bias in the majority of the studies observed, which are crucial in establishing a homogenous and reproducible protocol.Conclusion: In light of the confined evidence-based data and critical evaluation of this systematic review, the efficacy of adjunctive diode laser treatment ranging between 808 and 980nm to SRP remains debatable. The observational quality of the present systematic review was emphasised after scrutinising the available data, and an attempt to propose a laser protocol for future RCTs consideration was a great challenge due to an absence of clear and standardised recommendations in delivering a reliable laser protocol which can be replicable by future investigators. RCTs with robust methodology are warranted.Keywords: high intensity laser, diodes laser treatment, chronic periodontitis, systematic diseases, non-surgical periodontal therapy, scaling and root planing, randomised controlled trials studies, RCTs

Ioana Roxana Bordea,1,* Sebastian Candrea,2,* Tudor Sălăgean,3 Ioana Delia Pop,3 Ondine Lucaciu,1 Aranka Ilea,1 Marius Manole,4 Anida-Maria Băbțan,1 Adina Sirbu,1 Reem Hanna5,6 1Department of Oral Rehabilitation, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 2Department of Pedodontics, County Hospital Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 3Department of Land Measurements and Exact Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 4Department of Dental Propaedeutics and Esthetics, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania; 5Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, Laser Therapy Centre, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; 6Department of Oral Surgery, Dental Institute, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, UK*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Tudor Sălăgean Tel +40744707371Email tudor.salagean@usamvcluj.roAbstract: The unprecedented climate of the COVID-19 pandemic has some restrictions on oral care operational services, which heavily impacted the delivery of aerosol generating procedures (AGPs). This led the health authorities to set up guidelines and policies that should be followed to minimize the virus spread and ensure safe and effective dental care delivery. This systemic review aimed to evaluate the current guidelines and strategies in providing safe dental services and ensuring efficacy of the current universal personal preventive and protective measures, as well the impact that this outbreak might have on practicing the dental profession in full scope. The review focus questions were as follows: are the current guidelines and measures in literature mitigated enough to ensure safe and effective oral care delivery to patients during the COVID-19 pandemic? Is it possible to highlight the essential and fundamental cross-infection control measures and policies? Twenty articles were chosen out of 180,248 after the inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied in the period between January 1st and August 1st 2020. Our results highlighted effective safety measures that can be implanted in protecting healthcare professionals and patients and ensuring optimal dental care delivery in a safe and healthy environment, taking into consideration the risk assessment and management of AGPs. In conclusion, informative updated standardized policies and protocols are required when more knowledge on the virus behavior keeps evolving. Moreover, there is a need for evidence-based protective measures to be modified on a regular basis to be followed, until a safe vaccine is produced.Keywords: COVID-19, risk assessment, cross-infection control, diagnostic tests, dental care emergency guidelines, disinfectants, public health, aerosol generating procedures, airborne, healthcare personnel protection

Anca Diana Maierean,1,* Ioana Roxana Bordea,2,* Tudor Salagean,3 Reem Hanna,4,5 Teodora Gabriela Alexescu,6 Ana Chis,1 Doina Adina Todea1,* 1Department of Pneumology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 2Department of Oral Rehabilitation, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 3Department of Land Measurements and Exact Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 4Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, Laser Therapy Centre, University of Genoa, Genoa, 16132, Italy; 5Department of Oral Surgery, Dental Institute, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, SE5 9RS, UK; 6Department of Internal Medicine, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Tudor Salagean Email tudor.salagean@usamvcluj.roandIoana Roxana Bordea Cluj-Napoca County, Gheorghe Lazar Street, No. 4, Building D4, Ap 4, Tel +40744919391Email roxana.bordea@ymail.comBackground: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent disease with substantial public health burden. In most of the cases, there is a genetic predisposition to OSA. Serotonin/T-HydroxyTriptamine (5-HT) plays a key role in ventilatory stimulation, while the polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene (STG) leads to alterations in serotonin level, making it important in OSA.Objective: To examine whether the 5-HydroxyTriptamine and the genetic predisposition influence the incidence and evolution of OSA, we reviewed randomized, controlled trials and observational studies on the selected topic. The secondary objective was to determine the metabolic effects of the circulating serotonin in other tissues (liver, pancreas, gut, brown adipose tissue, and white adipose tissue) and its role in the development of obesity.Data Sources: A systematic review of English articles was performed based on PubMed and the Cochrane Library databases. Search filters included randomized controlled trial, controlled clinical trial, random allocation, double-blind method, and case–control studies and used the following keywords: Brain Serotonin OR Serotonin Transporter Gene Polymorphism OR Peripheral 5-HydroxyTryptamine AND Obstructive Sleep Apnea OR Sleep Disorder Breathing OR brain serotonin AND OSA OR serotonin transporter gene OR Peripheral 5-Hydroxytryptamine AND Sleep.Study Eligibility Criteria: The inclusion criteria for the current review were previous diagnosis of OSA, age above 18 years, and articles including quantitative data about serotonin transporter gene or peripheral serotonin. Language and time criteria were added – English articles published in the last 15 years. Studies that were not included were reviews and case reports.Study Appraisal and Synthesis Methods: In order to study the serotonin function, a literature research was conducted in the databases Pubmed and Cochrane Library. The following search terms were used: serotonin, 5-hydroxytryptamine, serotonin transporter gene. A critical appraisal of the included studies was performed with the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) and Delphi list.Results: The search yielded 1210 articles, from which 43 were included. The included studies suggest that the two polymorphisms of serotonin transporter gene (5HTT) – variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) and linked polymorphic region (LPR) – are strong candidates in the pathogenesis of OSA. The allele 10 of 5HTTVNTR and the long/long (L/L) allele genotype were associated with a higher prevalence of OSA and the L allele with a higher apnea-hypopnea index and a longer time during sleep with oxygen desaturation.Limitations: The main limitation of the present study consists of heterogeneity of the information. Being a less studied subject, randomized trials are not widely available and most data were obtained from case–control trials. Moreover, the included material indirectly approached the subject by demonstrating the effects of serotoninergic system over the metabolism, the connection between serotonin and obesity, factors which are implied in the pathogenesis of OSA.Conclusion and Implications of Key Findings: The two polymorphisms of serotonin gene can be considered important factors in the diagnosis and management of OSA.Keywords: 5-HTTLPR, 5-HTTVNTR, sleep disorder breathing, obesity

Reem Hanna,1,2 Snehal Dalvi,1,3 Tudor Sălăgean,4 Ioana Delia Pop,4 Ioana Roxana Bordea,5,* Stefano Benedicenti1,* 1Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, Laser Therapy Centre, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; 2Department of Oral Surgery, Dental Institute, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; 3Department of Periodontology, Swargiya Dadasaheb Kalmegh Smruti Dental College and Hospital, Nagpur, India; 4Department of Land Measurements and Exact Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 5Department of Oral Rehabilitation, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Reem HannaDepartment of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, Laser Therapy Centre, University of Genoa, Genoa, ItalyTel +39 0103537446Email reemhanna@hotmail.comTudor SălăgeanDepartment of Land Measurements and Exact Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, RomaniaTel +40744707371Email tudor.salagean@usamvcluj.roAbstract: Initially, the SARS-CoV-2 virus was considered as a pneumonia virus; however, a series of peer reviewed medical papers published in the last eight months suggest that this virus attacks the brain, heart, intestine, nervous and vascular systems, as well the blood stream. Although many facts remain unknown, an objective appraisal of the current scientific literature addressing the latest progress on COVID-19 is required. The aim of the present study was to conduct a critical review of the literature, focusing on the current molecular structure of SARS-CoV-2 and prospective treatment modalities of COVID-19. The main objectives were to collect, scrutinize and objectively evaluate the current scientific evidence-based information, as well to provide an updated overview of the topic that is ongoing. The authors underlined potential prospective therapies, including vaccine and phototherapy, as a monotherapy or combined with current treatment modalities. The authors concluded that this review has produced high quality evidence, which can be utilized by the clinical scientific community for future reference, as the knowledge and understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are evolving, in terms of its epidemiological, pathogenicity, and clinical manifestations, which ultimately map the strategic path, towards an effective and safe treatment and production of a reliable and potent vaccine.Keywords: SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, virus pathogenicity, cytokines storm, diagnostic methods, immunotherapy, vaccine, antiviral, photobiomodulation therapy, PBMT, photodynamic therapy, PDT, clinical trials

Abstract Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a lung injury characterized by noncardiogenic pulmonary edema and hypoxic respiratory failure. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of therapeutic hypothermia on short‐term experimental ARDS. Twenty adult female Yorkshire pigs were divided into four groups (n = 5 each): normothermic control (C), normothermic injured (I), hypothermic control (HC), and hypothermic injured (HI). Acute respiratory distress syndrome was induced experimentally via intrapulmonary injection of oleic acid. Target core temperature was achieved in the HI group within 1 h of injury induction. Cardiorespiratory, histologic, cytokine, and metabolomic data were collected on all animals prior to and following injury/sham. All data were collected for approximately 12 h from the beginning of the study until euthanasia. Therapeutic hypothermia reduced injury in the HI compared to the I group (histological injury score = 0.51 ± 0.18 vs. 0.76 ± 0.06; p = 0.02) with no change in gas exchange. All groups expressed distinct phenotypes, with a reduction in pro‐inflammatory metabolites, an increase in anti‐inflammatory metabolites, and a reduction in inflammatory cytokines observed in the HI group compared to the I group. Changes to respiratory system mechanics in the injured groups were due to increases in lung elastance (E) and resistance (R) (ΔE from pre‐injury = 46 ± 14 cmH2O L−1, p

Radiation induced cavernomas among children with medulloblastoma are common following external beam radiation (XRT) treatment with either photon or proton beams. However, with the increased utilization of proton beam therapy over the last decade we sought to determine if there was any difference in the development or natural history of these cavernous malformations (CM) or CM-like lesions. We performed a retrospective analysis of 79 patients from 2003 to 2019 who had undergone resection of medulloblastoma and subsequent XRT (30 photon or 49 proton beam therapy). The average age of patients at radiation treatment was 8.7 years old. Average follow up for patients who received photon beam therapy was 105 months compared to 56.8 months for proton beam therapy. A total of 68 patients (86.1%) developed post-radiation CMs, including 26 photon and 42 proton patients (86.7% and 85.7% respectively). The time to cavernoma development was significantly different, with a mean of 40.2 months for photon patients and 18.2 months for proton patients (p = 1.98 x 10-4). Three patients, one who received photon and two who received proton beam radiation, required surgical resection of a cavernoma. Although CM or CM-like lesions are detected significantly earlier in patients after receiving proton beam therapy, there appears to be no significant difference between the two radiation therapy modalities in the development of significant CM requiring surgical resection or intervention other than continued follow up and surveillance.

Abstract Many bird species are sexually monomorphic and cannot be sexed based on phenotypic traits. Rapid sex determination is often a necessary component of avian studies focusing on behavior, ecology, evolution, and conservation. While PCR‐based methods are the most common technique for molecularly sexing birds in the laboratory, a simpler, faster, and cheaper method has emerged, which can be used in the laboratory, but importantly also in the field. Herein, we used loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for rapid sex determination of blood samples from juvenile European blackcaps, Sylvia atricapilla, sampled in the wild. We designed LAMP primers unique to S. atricapilla based on the sex chromosome‐specific gene, chromo‐helicase‐DNA‐binding protein (CHD), optimized the primers for laboratory and field application, and then used them to test a subset of wild‐caught juvenile blackcaps of unknown gender at the time of capture. Sex determination results were fast and accurate. The advantages of this technique are that it allows researchers to identify the sex of individual birds within hours of sampling and eliminates the need for direct access to a laboratory if implemented at a remote field site. This work adds to the increasing list of available LAMP primers for different bird species and is a new addition within the Passeriformes order.

Rapid and widespread declines in coral health and abundance have driven increased investments in coral reef restoration interventions to jumpstart population recovery. Microfragmentation, an asexual propagation technique, is used to produce large numbers of corals for research and restoration. As part of resilience-based restoration, coral microfragments of different genotypes and species are exposed to various stressors to identify candidates for propagation. Growth rate is one of several important fitness-related traits commonly used in candidate selection, and being able to rapidly and accurately quantify growth rates of different genotypes is ideal for high-throughput stress tests. Additionally, it is crucial, as coral restoration becomes more commonplace, to establish practical guidelines and standardized methods of data collection that can be used across independent groups. Herein, we developed a streamlined workflow for growth rate quantification of live microfragmented corals using a structured-light 3D scanner to assess surface area (SA) measurements of live tissue over time. We then compared novel 3D and traditional 2D approaches to quantifying microfragment growth rates and assessed factors such as accuracy and speed. Compared to a more conventional 2D approach based on photography and ImageJ analysis, the 3D approach had comparable reliability, greater accuracy regarding absolute SA quantification, high repeatability, and low variability between scans. However, the 2D approach accurately measured growth and proved to be faster and cheaper, factors not trivial when attempting to upscale for restoration efforts. Nevertheless, the 3D approach has greater capacity for standardization across dissimilar studies, making it a better tool for restoration practitioners striving for consistent and comparable data across users, as well as for those conducting networked experiments, meta-analyses, and syntheses. Furthermore, 3D scanning has the capacity to provide more accurate surface area (SA) measurements for rugose, mounding, or complex colony shapes. This is the first protocol developed for using structured-light 3D scanning as a tool to measure growth rates of live microfragments. While each method has its advantages and disadvantages, disadvantages to a 3D approach based on speed and cost may diminish with time as interest and usage increase. As a resource for coral restoration practitioners and researchers, we provide a detailed 3D scanning protocol herein and discuss its potential limitations, applications, and future directions.

The ability to learn new skills and to store them as memory entities is one of the most impressive features of higher evolved organisms. However, not all memories are created equal; some are short-lived forms, and some are longer lasting. Formation of the latter is energetically costly and by the reason of restricted availability of food or fluctuations in energy expanses, efficient metabolic homeostasis modulating different needs like survival, growth, reproduction, or investment in longer lasting memories is crucial. Whilst equipped with cellular and molecular pre-requisites for formation of a protein synthesis dependent long-term memory (LTM), its existence in the larval stage of Drosophila remains elusive. Considering it from the viewpoint that larval brain structures are completely rebuilt during metamorphosis, and that this process depends completely on accumulated energy stores formed during the larval stage, investing in LTM represents an unnecessary expenditure. However, as an alternative, Drosophila larvae are equipped with the capacity to form a protein synthesis independent so-called larval anaesthesia resistant memory (lARM), which is consolidated in terms of being insensitive to cold-shock treatments. Motivated by the fact that LTM formation causes an increase in energy uptake in Drosophila adults, we tested the idea of whether an energy surplus can induce the formation of LTM in the larval stage. Suprisingly, increasing the metabolic state by feeding Drosophila larvae the disaccharide sucrose directly before aversive olfactory conditioning led to the formation of a protein synthesis dependent longer lasting memory. Moreover, formation of this memory component is accompanied by the suppression of lARM. We ascertained that insulin receptors (InRs) expressed in the mushroom body Kenyon cells suppresses the formation of lARM and induces the formation of a protein synthesis dependent longer lasting memory in Drosophila larvae. Given the numerical simplicity of the larval nervous system this work offers a unique prospect to study the impact of insulin signaling on the formation of protein synthesis dependent memories on a molecular level.

(1) Brazil has great potential to expand the area under agroforestry, and thereby simultaneously enhance multiple ecosystem services. However, divergent interests are currently polarized between drastic environmental deregulation and public resource allocation to chemical-intensive land use versus conservation and sustainable agriculture. This highlights an urgent need for a comprehensive overview of the evidence of the benefits to society generated by agroforestry across Brazil. (2) We present a systematic map of the scientific evidence related to the effects of agroforestry on ecosystem services in Brazil. (3) Reviewing 158 peer-reviewed articles, published in international scientific journals (database: Web of Science), we identified a disproportionate emphasis on the Atlantic Forest. Very little research has been published on the Cerrado savanna, Pampa grasslands and Pantanal wetlands. Regulating services were much more frequently studied (85%) than provisioning (13%), while cultural services represent a major gap. A consistent positive effect of agroforestry was demonstrated for soil quality, habitat and food provisioning. Trade-offs were demonstrated for soils and habitats. (4) Our analysis identifies high-priority gaps given their critical importance for human well-being which should be filled: agroforestry effects on water provision and regulation. Moreover, they should assess other ES such as erosion control, flood protection and pest control to enable a more reliable inference about trade-offs.

In his recent paper, “Things in Themselves: An Interim Report,” Robert Howell says that a philosophically satisfactory resolution of all-too-familiar problems about Kant’s views on the object of knowledge and the nature of things-in-themselves should meet three conditions: (1) it should be reasonably faithful to Kant’s views, (2) it must show that his views are internally consistent and his major arguments are valid, and (3) it must not rest on premises that are themselves philosophically implausible. Howell concludes that it would be philosophically good to find a satisfactory resolution of these problems, but also suspects that no such resolution will be found. The author fully agrees with Howell’s three conditions of adequacy on a philosophically satisfactory resolution of the problems, and holds that it would be philosophically good to find a resolution of them. However, the author sharply disagrees with the statement that no such resolution can be found. Indeed, he believes that such a resolution has been found. Kantian Radical Agnosticism (KRA) says that ‘we can and do know a priori that we cannot know either the nature of things in themselves or whether things in themselves exist or do not exist’. Kantian Methodological Eliminativism (KME) about things in themselves says that for the purposes of the theory of real (i. e., anthropocentric, “humanfaced”) transcendental idealism we can completely ignore things in themselves. In this paper the author unpacks and defends both KRA and KME.

Organohalide-respiring bacteria have been linked to the cycling and possible respiration of chlorinated natural organic matter (Cl-NOM) in uncontaminated soils and sediments. The importance of non-respiratory hydrolytic/oxidative dechlorination processes in the cycling of Cl-NOM in terrestrial soil and sediment, however, is still not understood. This research analyzes the dechlorination potential of terrestrial systems through analysis of the metagenomes of urban lake sediments and cultures enriched with Cl-NOM. Even with the variability in sample type and enrichment conditions, the potential to dechlorinate was universal, with reductive dehalogenase genes and hydrolytic or oxidative dehalogenase genes found in all samples analyzed. The reductive dehalogenase genes detected grouped taxonomically with those from organohalide-respiring bacteria with broad metabolic capabilities, as opposed to those that obligately respire organohalides. Furthermore, reductive dehalogenase genes and two haloacid dehalogenase genes increased in abundance when sediment was enriched with high concentrations of Cl-NOM. Our data suggests that both respiratory and non-respiratory dechlorination processes are important for Cl-NOM cycling, and that non-obligate organohalide-respiring bacteria are most likely involved in these processes.

The egg parasitoid Trissolcus japonicus is the main candidate for classical biocontrol of the invasive agricultural pest Halyomorpha halys. The efficacy of classical biocontrol depends on the parasitoid’s survival and conservation in the agroecosystem. Most parasitoid species rely on floral nectar as a food source, thus identifying nectar sources for T. japonicus is critical. We evaluated the impact of eight flowering plant species on T. japonicus survival in the lab by exposing unfed wasps to flowers inside vials. We also measured the wasps’ nutrient levels to confirm feeding and energy storage using anthrone and vanillin assays adapted for T. japonicus. Buckwheat, cilantro, and dill provided the best nectar sources for T. japonicus by improving median survival by 15, 3.5, and 17.5 days compared to water. These three nectar sources increased wasps’ sugar levels, and cilantro and dill also increased glycogen levels. Sweet alyssum, marigold, crimson clover, yellow mustard, and phacelia did not improve wasp survival or nutrient reserves. Further research is needed to determine if these flowers maintain their benefits in the field and whether they will increase the parasitism rate of H. halys.

BACKGROUND:Though previous work has examined some aspects of the dermatology workforce shortage and access to dermatologic care, little research has addressed the effect of rising interest in cosmetic procedures on access to medical dermatologic care. Our objective was to determine the wait times for Urgent and Non-Urgent medical dermatologic care and Cosmetic dermatology services at a population level and to examine whether wait times for medical care are affected by offering cosmetic services. METHODS:A population-wide survey of dermatology practices using simulated calls asking for the earliest appointment for a Non-Urgent, Urgent and Cosmetic service. RESULTS:Response rates were greater than 89% for all types of care. Wait times across all types of care were significantly different from each other (all P < 0.05). Cosmetic care was associated with the shortest wait times (3.0 weeks; Interquartile Range (IQR) = 0.4-3.4), followed by Urgent care (9.0 weeks; IQR = 2.1-12.9), then Non-Urgent Care (12.7 weeks; IQR = 4.4-16.4). Wait times for practices offering only Urgent care were not different from practices offering both Urgent and Cosmetic care (10.3 vs. 7.0 weeks). INTERPRETATION:Longer wait times and greater variation for Urgent and Non-Urgent dermatologic care and shorter wait times and less variation for Cosmetic care. Wait times were significantly longer in regions with lower dermatologist density. Provision of Cosmetic services did not increase wait times for Urgent care. These findings suggest an overall dermatology workforce shortage and a need for a more streamlined referral system for dermatologic care.

The destruction of natural habitats is among the major factors responsible for the decrease in species diversity and distribution. This study focused on the effect of vegetation and its interaction with the season on ant species richness, density, activity, and composition in the three dominant habitats - forest, fallow, and mixed crop field - prevailing in southern Cameroon. Ants were sampled using two sampling techniques -pitfall trap and quadrat - in fallows, forest, and mixed crop fields from May 2007 to April 2008. Average ant species richness did not differ between fallow and forest, but the number of species in both habitats was higher compared with mixed-crop field. Species richness was also higher during the short dry season compared with other seasons. Species density was higher in mixed-crop field and in the long dry season. Species activity was similar in the three habitats, but it was higher during the long-wet season. Species richness, activity, and density were lower at low altitude. Vegetation and season affected the composition of ant species, but not the interaction between the two factors. The highest dissimilarity index was observed between mixed crop-field and forest while between seasons, it was between the short-wet and the long dry season. These results suggest that vegetation cover and abiotic factors interact to determine the distribution, density, activity, and composition of ant species. Identifying key drivers among environmental factors could help to understand the response of species to the variation of those factors in the context of climate change.

Lignin is an abundant renewable resource that is a promising substrate for upgrading to fuels and chemicals. However, lignin-rich biorefinery streams are often physically and chemically complex, and could benefit substantially from fractionation. In this work, a membrane process was developed to fractionate low molecular weight (LMW) lignin-related compounds (molecular weight (MW) < 1000 Da) from a ligninrich, alkaline pretreated liquor (APL) prepared from pretreatment of corn stover with NaOH. The developed membrane process exhibits up to 98.5% rejection of high molecular weight (HMW) (MW > 1000 Da) species and generates a permeate stream with >80% recovery of LMW lignin-related compounds including aromatic species such as p-coumarate and ferulate, resulting in a 6-fold enrichment in LMW organic compounds relative to the crude APL. Experimental batch data were used to develop a detailed process model of an industrial scale, continuous membrane filtration system. The open-source model has several independent process inputs, such as the concentration of target compounds, feed flow rate, volume recovery, and membrane selectivity. This process model was used to show that the system has a low estimated energy demand (0.75 kW h m-3 permeate) and was used to identify primary cost drivers, including the membrane material cost. These results offer a key step towards a scalable, low energy, and costeffective lignin MW fractionation method with implications for both improving product isolation from lignin and improving carbon yields across the biorefinery.

Sahlbergella singularis is a major insect pest of cocoa in Cameroon. Conventional insecticides remain the most widely used option for mirid control, which unfortunately have adverse effects on the environment and human health. Improved methods of controlling this species, both environmentally friendly and inexpensive to farmers, are requirements. Varietal control based on the selection of resistant and/or tolerant genotypes can be an interesting approach. Nonetheless, the role of secondary metabolites (SMs) in cocoa defense against mirids is poorly documented; yet, these compounds are reported to be key elements in plant defense against herbivores. For this purpose, SMs of twelve cocoa genotypes were identified and quantified, as well as their impact on food preference by mirids. Food preference was assessed through microtests measuring cocoa attractiveness and antixenosis toward mirids. The results showed that cocoa genotypes were differently accepted as food by mirids, with a significant preference for hybrid IMC60 x SNK605 and a non-preference for T60/887. The ten other cocoa genotypes showed intermediate results. Five SMs classes: alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, saponins, and tannins were identified. Their rates varied between cocoa genotypes: polyphenols > alkaloids > flavonoids > tannins, and saponins. Cocoa genotypes with high total phenolic contents were significantly preferred by S. singularis (rα = 0.86, R2 = 74.0%, P < 0.001), while those with low saponins contents were lowly accepted (rα = − 0.83, R2 = 68.9%, P < 0.015), independently of the levels of other SMs. Given SMs high potential to affect mirid feeding behavior, analyzing cocoa SMs composition may help in early selection of resistant cocoa varieties against S. singularis.

Fopius arisanus (Sonan), an egg-pupal parasitoid of numerous fruit fly species, was recently introduced into Africa for the control of the Oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel). In this study, life-table data of F. arisanus were generated under laboratory conditions at six constant temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, 28 and 35 °C; 75% RH, L12:D12 photoperiod) and under variable conditions in a screenhouse on B. dorsalis. Several non-linear functions were fitted to model species development, mortality, longevity and oviposition using the Insect Life Cycle Modeling (ILCYM) software. The established phenology models were stochastically simulated at variable temperatures to estimate the life table parameters. Fopius arisanus completed development from egg to adult at all the temperatures tested except at 35 °C. Mean developmental time from egg to adult was inversely proportional to the temperature. The minimum temperature threshold (Tmin) from egg to adult was 8.15 °C, while the maximum temperature threshold (Tmax) was estimated at 34.2 °C. The optimal temperature for immature stages survival was predicted for 20-30 °C. The optimum fecundity estimated was 251 eggs/female at 22 °C. Following the stochastic simulations under natural conditions of the selected agro-ecological zones, it appears that the Humid Forest with Bimodal Rainfall provides a suitable thermal condition for potential population growth of F. arisanus. The present study shows the importance of temperature on the demographic parameters of F. arisanus. Implications of present findings on the biological control of B. dorsalis under climate change scenarios is discussed.

The African mirid bug (Sahlbergella singularis) is the most economically important insect pest in cocoa farms. Pesticide management, although controversial due to the adverse effects of these substances on the environment and on human health, remains the main option used for controlling this pest. In the recent decades, the development of alternative approaches to synthetic pesticides is a requirement. Therefore, we used neem oil (NO) and ethanolic extracts (EE) from leaves at different concentrations to evaluate, in vitro, their insecticidal potentials against mirids. Mirid mortality increased significantly with increase in concentrations, values ranged from 32.5 to 92.5 % for EE and 52.5 to 97.5 % for NO. Apart from negative controls, Tween 80 and distilled water, that showed significant low mortality rates, both extracts revealed effectiveness comparable to the reference insecticide used in controlling mirids, except for EE by ingestion. Mirids treated by contact showed significantly high mortality rates (72.5 to 97.5 %) compared to those treated by ingestion (32.5 to 70.0 %). The greatest biological effectiveness values were obtained at a concentration of 8 % by contact exposure: 0.88 ml/ml (NO) and 0.73 g/ml (EE) for LC50 and ≈1 day to both extracts for LT50. Given effectiveness comparable to that of the insecticide, both tested extracts should be considered as effective biopesticides for IPM against mirids, especially S. singularis.

Fopius arisanus (Sonan) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a koinobiont solitary parasitoid of various fruit flies, particularly those in the genus Bactrocera. Researchers introduced F. arisanus into Africa for the biological control of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae), a pest of a wide range of fruit trees and vegetables. However, the suitability of host fruit species as egg-laying substrates for parasitoid development remains poorly investigated in tropical Africa. The present study examines the preference and performance of F. arisanus on B. dorsalis reared on eleven fruit species through laboratory choice-test trials. We assessed the oviposition activity, parasitism rate, developmental time, and offspring fitness of F. arisanus on nine cultivated and two wild host fruits species. Oviposition attempts were higher on Psidium guajava (L.) (Myrtales: Myrtaceae) and Mangifera indica (L.) (Sapindales: Anacardiaceae) than on the other host fruits tested. The wasp parasitized host eggs in P. guajava in no-choice experiments. Psidium guajava, Irvingia wombulu (Vermoesen) (Malpighiales: Irvingiaceae), and Irvingia gabonensis (Aubry_Lecomte) Baill (Malpighiales: Irvingiaceae) were suitable for parasitism in choice tests. Of all host fruits tested, the body and hind tibia lengths of both parasitoid sexes emerging from M. indica were longer than on the others. The female ovipositor was long on Annona squamosa (L.) (Magnoliales: annonaceae) and short on Eribotrya japonica ([Thunb.] Lindl.; Rosales: Rosaceae). We obtained the longest preimaginal developmental time for both sexes on E. japonica and the shortest for females and males on Carica papaya (L.) (Brassicales: Caricaceae). These results demonstrate the ability of some tested fruit species to serve for the permanent establishment of F. arisanus in the field.