Squamate reptiles may have compensated for the lack of γδTCR with a duplication of the TRB locus.

Squamate reptiles are amongst the most successful terrestrial vertebrate lineages, with over 10,000 species across a broad range of ecosystems. Despite their success, squamates are also amongst the least studied lineages immunologically. Recently, a universal lack of γδ T cells in squamates due to deletions of the genes encoding the T cell receptor (TCR) γ and δ chains was discovered.

Colorectal carcinogenesis in the Lynch syndromes and familial adenomatous polyposis: trigger events and downstream consequences.

Carcinogenesis encompasses processes that lead to increased mutation rates, enhanced cellular division (tumour growth), and invasive growth. Colorectal cancer (CRC) carcinogenesis in carriers of pathogenic APC (path_APC) and pathogenic mismatch repair gene (path_MMR) variants is initiated by a second hit affecting the corresponding wild-type allele. In path_APC carriers, second hits result in the development of multiple adenomas, with CRC typically emerging after an additional 20 years.

Infantry training outcomes: are they improved with an initial reduction in load carriage mass and additional sprint intensity exercise?

Introduction: Infantry is a physically demanding trade that is associated with elevated rates of musculoskeletal injury. A 17-week longitudinal intervention assessed the effect of a progressive increase in load carriage mass and sprint-intensity intervals on physical performance, physical complaints, medical encounters, physical activity and sleep in infantry trainees.

Methods: 91 infantry trainees from 2 separate platoons, randomly assigned as control (CON) or experimental (EXP), provided written voluntary consent.

Desmoid tumour: a rare cause of congenital unilateral calf enlargement mimicking calf hypertrophy.

Desmoid tumours, also known as aggressive fibromatosis, are rare tumours derived from mesenchymal stem cells, accounting for only 0.03 % of all tumours. While 85-90 % of cases are sporadic, desmoid tumours can occasionally be associated with Gardner syndrome (or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis), which is linked to variants in the tumour suppressor gene, APC (adenomatous polyposis coli) gene on chromosome 5.