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This Special Issue presents articles that combine traditional approaches, novel experimental methods, and advanced techniques, to provide a more in-depth understanding of trophic interactions in biological control. Studies mainly cover behavioural and chemical ecology, molecular ecology using PCR, qPCR and high-throughput sequencing, population genetics, automated deep learning image analysis and photo trapping. Through laboratory and field investigations, articles provide novel insights into host/prey specificity of natural enemies, their multitrophic interactions, and how they behave in space and time. Ultimately, results may be useful for the development of management strategies that aim to improve biocontrol effectiveness against native and invasive herbivorous insects.

The development of leadership skills has been the topic of several position statements over recent decades, and the need of medical leaders for a specific training was emphasized during the COVID-19 crisis, to enable them to adequately collaborate with governments, populations, civic society, organizations, and universities. However, differences persist as to the way such skills are taught, at which step of training, and to whom. From these observations and building on previous experience at the University of Ottawa, a team of medical professors from Lyon (France), Ottawa, and Montreal (Canada) universities decided to develop a specific medical leadership training program dedicated to faculty members taking on leadership responsibilities. This pilot training program was based on a holistic vision of a transformation model for leadership development, the underlying principle of which is that leaders are trained by leaders. All contributors were eminent French and Canadian stakeholders. The model was adapted to French faculty members, following an inner and outer analysis of their specific needs, both contextual and related to their time constraints. This pilot program, which included 10 faculty members from Lyon, was selected to favor interactivity and confidence in older to favor long-term collaborations between them and contribute to institutional changes from the inner; it combined several educational methods mixing interactive plenary sessions and simulation exercises during onescholar year. All the participants completed the program and expressed global satisfaction with it, validating its acceptability by the target. Future work will aim to develop the program, integrate evaluation criteria, and transform it into a graduating training.

BackgroundPregnancy apps are widely used by pregnant women, who benefit from self-tracking features to support their health goals. Pregnant radiographers are considered a high-risk group of health workers practicing in ionizing radiation environments. Radiation exposure above threshold limits can cause harmful genetic effects on a fetus. Accordingly, pregnant radiographers are required to wear special fetal dosimeters, which provide real-time readings of radiation dose exposure to the fetus. Pregnant radiographers have the responsibility to self-track their fetal doses to ensure that the threshold limit of 1 mGy is not exceeded. The traditional method used to track doses includes a written log of doses in a notebook. Thus, PregiDose, a unique offering in the context of pregnancy apps, was developed to enhance fetal dose tracking and monitoring using technological methods. ObjectiveThis study aims to describe the users’ perceptions of the app’s usefulness using PregiDose in a natural setting. MethodsThe overarching framework adopted for the study was a design science research (DSR) methodology encompassing five steps, namely (1) problem awareness, (2) suggestion, (3) development, (4) evaluation, and (5) conclusion. This paper presents the evaluation step of DSR. DSR step 4 included a qualitative approach to explore users’ perceptions regarding the app. Data were collected using a semistructured interview guide. Open-ended questions were guided by the app’s core features, namely dose tracking, education, and wellness. In total, 17 pregnant radiographers in South Africa enrolled to use the app, 9 (53%) engaged with the app, and 4 (24%) agreed to participate in the feedback interviews. The data were collected from October 2023 to March 2024 and analyzed using a reflective thematic data analysis method. ResultsThree overarching themes emerged from the data, namely (1) usefulness of PregiDose, (2) barriers to PregiDose adoption and use, and (3) recommendations for the advancement of PregiDose. Users labeled the app’s usefulness as positive and perceived it as a modern approach to traditional dose-tracking methods. They perceived the graph output of the dose-tracking feature to be useful for viewing their accumulative doses. They did not fully engage with the journaling feature, indicating that it was a personal preference and not a practice they would usually engage in. Physiological barriers, such as fatigue and “pregnancy brain,” were contributors to decreased engagement. Finally, because of the demanding workload and fast-paced nature of the radiography department, users recommended the automation of fetal dosimetry through the Internet of Things. ConclusionsPregiDose is an occupational health and safety mobile app developed for pregnant radiographers through a DSR approach. The app offers a modern method of dose tracking consistent with technological advancements in the context of self-tracking. However, future implementation would require using Internet of Things to make fetal dose tracking more effective.

While foraging in agricultural habitats, natural enemies, such as egg parasitoids, may encounter insecticide residues, which, if not lethal, can alter host location behaviour and learning capacity. Such interference can reduce the potential of biological control agents, especially exotic species which are released in small numbers in a new environment and first need to establish and build up their populations. Several studies have investigated the lethal effects of pesticides on parasitoids, but less information is available about non-lethal consequences, and no information is available on the potential effect on associative learning in egg parasitoids. The egg parasitoid Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmed) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) is a biological control agent of the invasive brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). We hypothesised that a low concentration (causing 20 % parasitoid mortality) of a commonly used neonicotinoid insecticide (acetamiprid) alters the behaviour and learning capacity of T. japonicus to exploit the chemical traces left by reproductive females of either the main host, H. halys, or of an alternative host, Arma custos (F.) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). In open arena bioassays, parasitoid females responded positively to traces left by both stink bug species. Following oviposition experience and encounter with host traces (associative learning), T. japonicus reduced foraging time. Parasitoids previously exposed to neonicotinoid showed changes in foraging behaviour, with increased residence time spent in the host-contaminated area and altered kinetics of the walking behaviour. Neonicotinoid exposition did not affect the learning ability of parasitoid females 1 h after oviposition experience but prolonged the memory retention. The insecticide effects on female parasitoid behaviour may affect its reproductive ability and this should be considered when attempting its establishment in the introduction areas.

Background/Objectives: In a Phase 2a, double-blind, placebo-controlled study including healthy participants aged 18–55 years, OVX836, a nucleoprotein (NP)-based candidate vaccine, previously showed a good safety profile, a robust immune response (both humoral and cellular) and a preliminary signal of protection (VE = 84%) against PCR-confirmed symptomatic influenza after a single intramuscular dose of 180 µg, 300 µg or 480 µg. Methods: Using the same methodology, we confirmed the good safety and strong immunogenicity of OVX836 at the same doses in older adults (≥65 years), a key target population for influenza vaccination. Results: Significant humoral (anti-NP IgG) and cellular (interferon gamma (IFNγ) spot-forming cells per million peripheral blood mononuclear cells and specific CD4+ IFNγ+ T-cells) immune responses were observed at the three dose levels, without clear dose–response relationship. T-cell responses were shown to be highly cross-reactive against various influenza A strains, both seasonal and highly pathogenic avian strains. We also evaluated the effect of sex (stronger immune response in females) and age (stronger immune response in young adults) on the immune response to OVX836 after adjustment based on the pre-vaccination immune status. Conclusions: The results obtained with OVX836 lay the groundwork for a future placebo-controlled, field proof of concept efficacy Phase 2b trial.

We investigated the effect of de-icing salt in stormwater runoff on bioretention system hydrology and filtration of contaminants. Salt runoffs during the snow melt period were simulated in 20 mesocosms planted with 1 of 3 plant species (Cornus sericea, Juncus effusus and Iris versicolor) or left unplanted, and then watered with semi-synthetic stormwater runoffs supplemented with 4 NaCl concentrations (0, 250, 1,000 or 4,000 mg Cl/L). All bioretention mesocosms, irrespective of treatment, were efficient in reducing water volume, flow and pollution level. There was no phytotoxic effect of NaCl on plants, even at the highest NaCl concentration tested. Water volume reduction and flow rate were influenced by plant species, but salt concentration had no effect. Salt runoffs significantly increased the removal of some metals, such as Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn, but had no effect on nutrient removal. Because snowmelt laden with de-icing salt is of short duration and occurs during plant dormancy, plants in bioretention may be less affected by de-icing salt than previously thought, provided that salinity decreases rapidly to normal levels in the soil water. The long-term effects of de-icing salt and general performance of bioretention should be further studied under full-scale conditions. HIGHLIGHTS Salt runoff did not reduce metal removal after one season.; High nutrient removal efficiency regardless of salt concentration.; Salt runoff did not alter the flow and water volume reduction.; No phytotoxic effect of de-icing salt in stormwater runoff.;

The use of treatment wetlands (TWs) presents particular challenges in regions with sub-zero winter temperatures, due to reduced biological activity and risk of pipe breakage or clogging due to freezing. We studied the vertical temperature distribution in four pilot-scale TWs exposed to winter temperatures in order to determine the impact of operational system parameters and the role of insulation on heat conservation inside the filtering bed. The overall temperature pattern was similar in all wetlands, with a trend of increasing temperature from the surface toward the bottom during the cold season. No freezing was detected in the wetlands despite average daily temperatures as low as −20 °C. Influent water temperature and hydraulic loading had a stronger influence on TW temperatures in winter than air temperature. The vertical distribution of temperatures in TWs is more sensitive to hydraulic loading variation in the percolating operating condition than in the saturated flow with forced aeration configuration. Our results suggest that TW systems can remain operational under cold winter conditions provided the surface is properly insulated by vegetation, mulch and/or snow. HIGHLIGHTS In winter, temperature increases from the surface towards the bottom in vertical flow treatment wetlands.; The vertical distribution of temperatures is more sensitive to hydraulic loading variation in the percolating operating condition than in saturated flow with forced aeration.; Given proper surface insulation, influent water temperature and hydraulic loading have a stronger influence on treatment wetland temperatures in winter than air temperature.; Vertical flow treatment wetlands can remain operational in winter, if the surface is properly insulated by vegetation, mulch and/or snow.;

IntroductionToxoplasma gondii (TG) is a common protozoan parasite infecting approximately one third of the human population. Animal studies have shown that this parasite can manipulate its host behavior. Based on this, human studies have assessed if TG can be involved in mental health disorders associated with important behavioral modifications such as schizophrenia. However, results have been discrepant. Given that TG has a strong impact on fear and risk-taking processes in animal studies and that fear and risk-taking behaviors are associated with the human stress response, we tested whether glucocorticoid biomarkers (salivary and hair) differ in people with schizophrenia and controls as a function of TG status. MethodsWe measured TG antibodies in blood samples, as well as salivary and hair glucocorticoid levels in 226 people with schizophrenia (19.9% women, mean age = 39 years old) and 129 healthy individuals (controls) (45.7% women, mean age = 41 years old). ResultsThe results showed that people with schizophrenia infected with TG presented significantly higher hair glucocorticoid concentrations than non-infected people with schizophrenia. This effect was not found in control participants. No effect was observed for salivary glucocorticoid levels. Additionally, there were no associations between TG infection and positive psychotic symptoms nor impulsivity. DiscussionThese results show that people with schizophrenia present high levels of hair glucocorticoid levels only when they are infected with TG. Further studies performed in populations suffering from other mental health disorders are needed to determine if this effect is specific to schizophrenia, or whether it is generalized across mental health disorders.

Neurotransmitters are released at synapses by synaptic vesicles (SVs), which originate from SV precursors (SVPs) that have traveled along the axon. Because each synapse maintains a pool of SVs, only a small fraction of which are released, it has been thought that axonal transport of SVPs does not affect synaptic function. Here, studying the corticostriatal network both in microfluidic devices and in mice, we find that phosphorylation of the Huntingtin protein (HTT) increases axonal transport of SVPs and synaptic glutamate release by recruiting the kinesin motor KIF1A. In mice, constitutive HTT phosphorylation causes SV over-accumulation at synapses, increases the probability of SV release, and impairs motor skill learning on the rotating rod. Silencing KIF1A in these mice restored SV transport and motor skill learning to wild-type levels. Axonal SVP transport within the corticostriatal network thus influences synaptic plasticity and motor skill learning.

Abstract 8-Oxoguanine DNA glycosylase (OGG1) initiates base excision repair of the oxidative DNA damage product 8-oxoguanine. OGG1 is bifunctional; catalyzing glycosyl bond cleavage, followed by phosphodiester backbone incision via a β-elimination apurinic lyase reaction. The product from the glycosylase reaction, 8-oxoguanine, and its analogues, 8-bromoguanine and 8-aminoguanine, trigger the rate-limiting AP lyase reaction. The precise activation mechanism remains unclear. The product-assisted catalysis hypothesis suggests that 8-oxoguanine and analogues bind at the product recognition (PR) pocket to enhance strand cleavage as catalytic bases. Alternatively, they may allosterically activate OGG1 by binding outside of the PR pocket to induce an active-site conformational change to accelerate apurinic lyase. Herein, steady-state kinetic analyses demonstrated random binding of substrate and activator. 9-Deazaguanine, which can’t function as a substrate-competent base, activated OGG1, albeit with a lower Emax value than 8-bromoguanine and 8-aminoguanine. Random compound screening identified small molecules with Emax values similar to 8-bromoguanine. Paraquat-induced mitochondrial dysfunction was attenuated by several small molecule OGG1 activators; benefits included enhanced mitochondrial membrane and DNA integrity, less cytochrome c translocation, ATP preservation, and mitochondrial membrane dynamics. Our results support an allosteric mechanism of OGG1 and not product-assisted catalysis. OGG1 small molecule activators may improve mitochondrial function in oxidative stress-related diseases.

Quantifying axonal branching is crucial for understanding neural circuit function, developmental and regeneration processes and disease mechanisms. Factors that regulate patterns of axonal arborization and tune neuronal circuits are investigated for their implication in various disorders in brain connectivity. The lack of a reliable and user-friendly method makes the quantitative analysis of axon morphology difficult. Specifically, methods to visualize and quantify the complex axon arborization are challenging to implement and apply practically. Our study was aimed at developing a robust but simple method of quantification that used ImageJ 2D analysis and compared it with Imaris visualization and analysis of 3D images. We used zebrafish fluorescent transgenic lines to perform in vivo imaging of developing motor neuron axons that adequately reflected the complexity of axonal networks. Our new method, developed on ImageJ, is easy and fast, giving access to new information such as collateral distribution along the axonal shaft. This study describes step-by-step procedures that can be easily applied to a variety of organisms and in vitro systems. Our study provides a basis for further exploration of neural circuits to gain new insights into neuronal disorders and potential therapeutic interventions.

Abstract Population genetic studies of insect pests enhance our ability to anticipate problems in agroecosystems, such as pest outbreaks, insecticide resistance, or expansions of the host range. This study focuses on geographic distance and host plant selection as potential determinants of genetic differentiation of the carrot weevil Listronotus oregonensis, a major pest of several apiaceous crops in North America. To undertake genetic studies on this species, we assembled the first complete genome sequence for L. oregonensis. Then, we used both haplotype discrimination with mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and a genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) approach to characterize the genetic population structure. A total of 220 individuals were sampled from 17 localities in the provinces of Québec, Ontario, Nova Scotia (Canada), and the state of Ohio (USA). Our results showed significant genetic differences between distant populations across North America, indicating that geographic distance represents an important factor of differentiation for the carrot weevil. Furthermore, the GBS analysis revealed more different clusters than COI analysis between Québec and Nova Scotia populations, suggesting a recent differentiation in the latter province. In contrast, we found no clear evidence of population structure associated with the four cultivated apiaceous plants tested (carrot, parsley, celery, and celeriac) using populations from Québec. This first characterization of the genetic structure of the carrot weevil contributes to a better understanding of the gene flow of the species and helps to adapt local pest management measures to better control this agricultural pest.

Abstract Intramedullary astrocytomas (IMAs) are rare tumors, and few studies specific to the molecular alterations of IMAs have been performed. Recently, KIAA1549-BRAF fusions and the H3F3A p.K27M mutation have been described in low-grade (LG) and high-grade (HG) IMAs, respectively. In the present study, we collected clinico-radiological data and performed targeted next-generation sequencing for 61 IMAs (26 grade I pilocytic, 17 grade II diffuse, 3 LG, 3 grade III and 12 grade IV) to identify KIAA1549-BRAF fusions and mutations in 33 genes commonly implicated in gliomas and the 1p/19q regions. One hundred seventeen brain astrocytomas were analyzed for comparison. While we did not observe a difference in clinico-radiological features between LG and HG IMAs, we observed significantly different overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS). Multivariate analysis showed that the tumor grade was associated with better OS while EFS was strongly impacted by tumor grade and surgery, with higher rates of disease progression in cases in which only biopsy could be performed. For LG IMAs, EFS was only impacted by surgery and not by grade. The most common mutations found in IMAs involved TP53, H3F3A p.K27M and ATRX. As in the brain, grade I pilocytic IMAs frequently harbored KIAA1549-BRAF fusions but with different fusion types. Non-canonical IDH mutations were observed in only 2 grade II diffuse IMAs. No EGFR or TERT promoter alterations were found in IDH wild-type grade II diffuse IMAs. These latter tumors seem to have a good prognosis, and only 2 cases underwent anaplastic evolution. All of the HG IMAs presented at least one molecular alteration, with the most frequent one being the H3F3A p.K27M mutation. The H3F3A p.K27M mutation showed significant associations with OS and EFS after multivariate analysis. This study emphasizes that IMAs have distinct clinico-radiological, natural evolution and molecular landscapes from brain astrocytomas.

OVX836 is a recombinant protein-based vaccine targeting the highly conserved influenza nucleoprotein (NP), which aims to confer a broad-spectrum protection against influenza. In a Phase 1 study, OVX836, administered intramuscularly, has been found safe and immunogenic. The 90µg and 180µg dose levels were selected to be further evaluated in this randomized, monocenter, reference-controlled (Influvac Tetra™: quadrivalent seasonal influenza subunit vaccine), parallel group, double-blind, Phase 2a study in 300 healthy volunteers, aged 18-65 years, during the 2019/2020 flu season. Safety, influenza-like illness episodes (ILI; based on the Flu-PRO® questionnaire) and immunogenicity were assessed up to 180 days post-vaccination. OVX836 was safe and presented a reactogenicity profile similar to Influvac Tetra. It induced a significant increase in terms of NP-specific interferon-gamma (IFNγ) spot forming cells (SFCs), NP-specific CD4+ T-cells (essentially polyfunctional cells) and anti-NP IgG responses. OVX836 was superior to Influvac Tetra for all immunological parameters related to NP, and the 180µg dose was significantly superior to the 90µg dose for SFCs and CD4+ T-cells expressing IFNγ. Both the CD4+ T-cell and the anti-NP IgG responses persisted up to Day 180. An efficacy signal was observed with OVX836 at 180µg through reduction of ILI episodes occurring during the flu season as of 14 days post-vaccination. In conclusion, these results encourage further clinical evaluation of OVX836 in order to confirm the signal of efficacy on ILIs and/or laboratory-confirmed influenza cases. NCT04192500 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT04192500)

Background: V-306 is a virus-like particle-based vaccine candidate displaying respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) F site II protein mimetics (FsIIm) as an antigenic epitope. Methods: This was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, dose-escalating, first-in-human study, conducted in 60 women aged 18–45 years. Twenty subjects per cohort (15 vaccine and five placebo) received two V-306 intramuscular administrations on Days 0 and 56 at 15 µg, 50 µg, or 150 µg. Safety and immunogenicity were assessed after each vaccination and for 1 year in total. Results: V-306 was safe and well tolerated at all dose levels, with no increase in reactogenicity and unsolicited adverse events between the first and second administrations. At 50 µg and 150 µg, V-306 induced an increase in FsIIm-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) titers, which lasted at least 4 months. This did not translate into an increase in RSV-neutralizing antibody titers, which were already high at baseline. No increase in the anti-F protein-specific IgG titers was observed, which were also high in most subjects at baseline due to past natural infections. Conclusions: V-306 was safe and well-tolerated. Future modifications of the vaccine and assay conditions will likely improve the results of vaccination.

Abstract Introduction Chronic Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (cHP) is a fibrotic interstitial lung disease (ILD) resulting from repeated exposure to an offending antigen. Prognostication in cHP remains challenging, and the relationship between comorbidities and survival has yet to be characterized. The aim of this study was to describe the relationship between comorbid conditions and survival in patients with cHP. Methods The prospective database from a tertiary referral centre for ILD was reviewed for patient-reported comorbidities, their frequency, and relationship with survival in cHP patients. Comorbidities were assessed by direct questioning of the patient at the baseline visit and by a standardized questionnaire for the diagnosis of interstitial lung diseases. During the follow-up examinations, patients were asked about newly diagnosed comorbidities. Results Two hundred eleven patients with cHP were identified (mean age 63 years, 53% male, mean FVC 73%), with mean follow-up of 32 months. The mean number of comorbidities was 3 (10% had 0, 59% 1–3 and 31% ≥4 comorbidities). Most frequent comorbidities groups were cardiovascular (65%) and respiratory (26%), most common comorbidities were hypertension (56%), gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) (24%), diabetes (20%) and coronary heart disease (18%). In general, deceased patients had more comorbidities than survivors (p = 0.005), yet there was no association between the absolute number of comorbidities and survival. Pulmonary hypertension (30.8% versus 5.7%, p = 0.001;), diastolic dysfunction (26.9% versus 6.4%, p = 0.004) and cerebrovascular disease were more frequent in non-survivors (23.1% versus 7.6%, p = 0.026). Lung cancer was not observed, and neither GERD nor antacid drugs were associated with outcome (p = 0.357 and p = 0.961, respectively). Conclusions Comorbidities are common in cHP are associated with survival. Further work should determine whether interventions for these specific comorbidities can positively affect survival.

Na busca de alternativas para o Ensino de Física, muitos recursos didáticos são propostos e nem sempre se leva em consideração aspectos teórico-metodológicos para a elaboração e utilização destes recursos. Uma simulação virtual pode ser tão tradicional quanto uma lousa de giz quando não é bem planejada ou quando é mal utilizada. Nesse sentido, este artigo se propõe a apresentar uma abordagem de desenvolvimento de simulações virtuais de experimentos históricos voltadas para o Ensino de Física, considerando aspectos de áreas como a Física, Didática das Ciências, História e Filosofia da Ciência, Design e Ciência da Computação para obter um recurso didático que reflita competências das áreas envolvidas. Além disso, são sugeridos elementos para que o trabalho colaborativo em equipe seja otimizado e produtivo.

Abstract Background Intermittent hypoxia (IH) is the major feature of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, well‐known to induce cardiometabolic complications. We previously demonstrated that IH induces hyperinsulinemia and associated altered insulin signaling in adipose tissue, liver, and skeletal muscle, but impact of IH on cardiac insulin signaling and functional/structural consequences remains unknown. Therefore, the aims of this study were to investigate in both lean and obese mice the effects of chronic IH on the following: (1) cardiac insulin signaling and (2) cardiac remodeling and function. Methods C57BL/6 J male mice were fed low‐fat (LFD) or high‐fat (HFD) diet for 20 weeks, and exposed to IH (21–5% FiO2, 60 s cycle, 8 h/day) or normoxia (N) for the last 6 weeks. Systemic insulin sensitivity was evaluated by an insulin tolerance test. Cardiac remodeling and contractile function were assessed by cardiac ultrasonography. Ultimately, hearts were withdrawn for biochemical and histological analysis. Results In LFD mice, IH‐induced hyperinsulinemia and systemic insulin resistance that were associated with increased phosphorylations of cardiac insulin receptor and Akt on Tyr1150 and Ser473 residues, respectively. In addition, IH significantly increased cardiac interstitial fibrosis and cardiac contractility. In the HFD group, IH did not exert any additional effect, nor on insulin/Akt signaling, nor on cardiac remodeling and function. Conclusion Our study suggests that, despite systemic insulin resistance, IH exposure mediates an adaptive cardiac response in lean but not in obese mice. Further studies are needed to investigate which specific mechanisms are involved and to determine the long‐term evolution of cardiac responses to IH.

The cascading effects of microbe–plant symbioses on the second trophic level, such as phytophagous insects, have been most studied. However, few studies have examined the higher third trophic level, i.e., their natural enemies. We investigated the effects of the symbiotic associations between an arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus, Rhizophagus irregularis (Glomerales: Glomeraceae), a nitrogen-fixing bacterium, Bradyrhizobium japonicum (Rhizobiales: Bradyrhizobiaceae), and soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merr. (Fabaceae) on two natural enemies of the soybean aphid, Aphis glycines Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae), the ladybird beetle Coleomegilla maculata (De Geer) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), and the parasitoid Aphelinus certus Yasnosh (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae). We measured the growth and survival in the predator and parasitoid reared on aphids feeding on soybean inoculated seedlings. The rhizobium symbiosis alone was affected with a decreased rate of parasitoid emergence, presumably due to decreased host quality. However, number of mummies, sex-ratio, development time, and parasitoid size were all unaffected by inoculation. AM fungus alone or co-inoculated with the rhizobium was unaffected with any of the parameters of the parasitoid. For the predator, none of the measured parameters was affected with any inoculant. Here, it appears that whatever benefits the microbe–plant symbioses confer on the second trophic level are little transferred up to the third.

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder affecting human population since many centuries ago. To contend this disorder, effective alternative use of non-pharmacological approaches, particularly natural herbal plants, has become a subject of interest since the last decade. Aim: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Lannea coromandelica in the management of diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: A systematic review on randomised controlled trials will be carried out. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines will be followed. The search strategies will be conducted in PubMed/ MEDLINE, J-Gate, EMBASE, COCHRANE database and Google Scholar. The search period will be included from 1968 to December 2020. The screening process will be initiated by two authors for title and abstract followed by four authors for full-text articles. The extraction will be performed by using the following characteristicsStudy design, Animal model, Intervention of interest. Conclusion: This current review will provide evidence based on the available literature either to accept or reject the hypothesis that efficacy of Lannea coromandelica herbal plant may be beneficial for controlling glucose levels in diabetic model.

Animals have evolved the capacity to learn, and the conventional view is that learning allows individuals to improve foraging decisions. The parasitoid Telenomus podisi has been shown to parasitize eggs of the exotic stink bug Halyomorpha halys at the same rate as eggs of its coevolved host, Podisus maculiventris, but the parasitoid cannot complete its development in the exotic species. We hypothesized that T. podisi learns to exploit cues from this non-coevolved species, thereby increasing unsuccessful parasitism rates. We conducted bioassays to compare the responses of naïve vs. experienced parasitoids on chemical footprints left by one of the two host species. Both naïve and experienced females showed a higher response to footprints of P. maculiventris than of H. halys. Furthermore, parasitoids that gained an experience on H. halys significantly increased their residence time within the arena and the frequency of re-encounter with the area contaminated by chemical cues. Hence, our study describes detrimental learning where a parasitoid learns to associate chemical cues from an unsuitable host, potentially re-enforcing a reproductive cul-de-sac (evolutionary trap). Maladaptive learning in the T. podisi-H. halys association could have consequences for population dynamics of sympatric native and exotic host species.

The effect of temperature during host patch exploitation by parasitoids remains poorly understood, despite its importance on female reproductive success. Under laboratory conditions, we explored the behaviour of Anaphes listronoti, an egg parasitoid of the carrot weevil, Listronotus oregonensis, when foraging on a host patch at five temperatures. Temperature had a strong effect on the female tendency to exploit the patch: A. listronoti females parasitized more eggs at intermediate temperature (20 to 30°C) compared to those foraging at the extreme of the range (15.9°C and 32.8°C). However, there was no difference in offspring sex-ratio and clutch size between temperature treatments. Mechanisms of host acceptance within a patch differed between temperatures, especially at 32.8°C where females used ovipositor insertion rather than antennal contact to assess whether a host was already parasitized or not, suggesting that host handling and chemical cues detection were probably constrained at high temperature. Females spent less time on the host patch with increasing temperatures, but temperature had no effect on patch-leaving rules. Our results show that foraging A. listronoti females behave better than expected at sub-optimal temperatures, but worse than expected at supra-optimal temperatures. This could impair parasitoid performance under ongoing climate change.

Microtubule-associated protein 6 (MAP6) is known to be important for synaptic plasticity and cognition, supposedly via interaction with microtubules. Here, the authors found that MAP6 is crucial for the stabilisation of enlarged synapses through its association with a different cytoskeletal element, actin.

Abstract Background The skeletal muscle fiber has a specific and precise intracellular organization which is at the basis of an efficient muscle contraction. Microtubules are long known to play a major role in the function and organization of many cells, but in skeletal muscle, the contribution of the microtubule cytoskeleton to the efficiency of contraction has only recently been studied. The microtubule network is dynamic and is regulated by many microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs). In the present study, the role of the MAP6 protein in skeletal muscle organization and function has been studied using the MAP6 knockout mouse line. Methods The presence of MAP6 transcripts and proteins was shown in mouse muscle homogenates and primary culture using RT-PCR and western blot. The in vivo evaluation of muscle force of MAP6 knockout (KO) mice was performed on anesthetized animals using electrostimulation coupled to mechanical measurement and multimodal magnetic resonance. The impact of MAP6 deletion on microtubule organization and intracellular structures was studied using immunofluorescent labeling and electron microscopy, and on calcium release for muscle contraction using Fluo-4 calcium imaging on cultured myotubes. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t test or the Mann-Whitney test. Results We demonstrate the presence of MAP6 transcripts and proteins in skeletal muscle. Deletion of MAP6 results in a large number of muscle modifications: muscle weakness associated with slight muscle atrophy, alterations of microtubule network and sarcoplasmic reticulum organization, and reduction in calcium release. Conclusion Altogether, our results demonstrate that MAP6 is involved in skeletal muscle function. Its deletion results in alterations in skeletal muscle contraction which contribute to the global deleterious phenotype of the MAP6 KO mice. As MAP6 KO mouse line is a model for schizophrenia, our work points to a possible muscle weakness associated to some forms of schizophrenia.

In French Guiana, a French overseas territory in South America facing a fourth wave of COVID-19, vaccination coverage is very low, both in the population and among health care workers (HCWs). Vaccine hesitancy concerned 35.7% of the latter in early 2021. The objective of this complementary study is to understand barriers and levers and to adapt messages to increase vaccination coverage among HCWs. We conducted a regional cross-sectional survey of HCWs with a questionnaire containing open-ended questions exploring factors associated with vaccine hesitancy and the needs to adapt the vaccination campaign in French Guiana. The discourses were analyzed using a qualitative approach based on grounded theory, with open coding of data by themes and construction of abstract categories. The analysis of the 357 responses collected from January to March 2021 reveals several trends. The ethical aspect of the HCWs’ role emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated themselves (to protect patients, to set an example...) and of vaccinating as many people as possible, including the most geographically or socially distant, such as undocumented migrants. However, some HCWs remain suspicious of the vaccine with concerns over the efficacy and side effects, of health institutions, and of the pharmaceutical industry. The role of fake news circulating on social networks has been widely discussed. Efforts to explain and convince HCWs must be continued in French Guiana using the identified levers to improve the acceptability of vaccination.

Horizontal-to-Vertical Spectral Ratios (HVSR) and Rayleigh group velocity dispersion curves (DC) can be used to estimate the shallow S-wave velocity (VS) structure. Knowing the VS structure is important for geophysical data interpretation either in order to better constrain data inversions for P-wave velocity (VP) structures such as travel time tomography or full waveform inversions or to directly study the VS structure for geo-engineering purposes (e.g., ground motion prediction). The joint inversion of HVSR and dispersion data for 1D VS structure allows characterising the uppermost crust and near surface, where the HVSR data (0.03 to 10s) are most sensitive while the dispersion data (1 to 30s) constrain the deeper model which would, otherwise, add complexity to the HVSR data inversion and adversely affect its convergence. During a large-scale experiment, 197 three-component short-period stations, 41 broad band instruments and 190 geophones were continuously operated for 6 months (April to October 2017) covering an area of approximately 1500km2 with a site spacing of approximately 1 to 3km. Joint inversion of HVSR and DC allowed estimating VS and, to some extent density, down to depths of around 1000m. Broadband and short period instruments performed statistically better than geophone nodes due to the latter’s gap in sensitivity between HVSR and DC. It may be possible to use HVSR data in a joint inversion with DC, increasing resolution for the shallower layers and/or alleviating the absence of short period DC data, which may be harder to obtain. By including HVSR to DC inversions, confidence improvements of two to three times for layers above 300m were achieved. Furthermore, HVSR/DC joint inversion may be useful to generate initial models for 3D tomographic inversions in large scale deployments. Lastly, the joint inversion of HVSR and DC data can be sensitive to density but this sensitivity is situational and depends strongly on the other inversion parameters, namely VS and VP. Density estimates from a HVSR/DC joint inversion should be treated with care, while some subsurface structures may be sensitive, others are clearly not. Inclusion of gravity inversion to HVSR/DC joint inversion may be possible and prove useful.

Abstract Background Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is responsible for severe respiratory infections and higher costs in medical care. The two aims of this work were to assess the performances of SOFIA®RSV tests in “real-life-laboratory” conditions (study 1) and implemented at point-of-care testing in a pediatric emergency department (ED, study 2), during two consecutive winter seasons. Methods In study 1, fresh nasopharyngeal swabs from patients of all ages were sampled in 1.5 ml of Universal virological Transport Medium (UTM) and prospectively tested using SOFIA®RSV tests. In study 2, conducted in a pediatric ED, nasopharyngeal swabs were placed in 3 ml of UTM. All SOFIA®RSV tests were confirmed by molecular testing, considered as reference method. The epidemiological and clinical features of tested patients, as well as the care of these patients after obtaining quick results were evaluated. Results The sensitivities of SOFIA®RSV in infants (aged under 24 months) performed in the laboratory and in the pediatric ED were respectively 95% (95% CI: 86.8–98.1) and 74.8% (95% CI: 68.0–80.9) compared to PCR. In study 1, the sensitivity among children (from 2 to 15 years old) and adults (above 15 years old) dropped to 45% (95% CI: 23.1–68.5) and 59% (95% CI: 32.9–81.6), respectively. In study 2, there were some differences in bed-management of SOFIA®RSV positive compared to SOFIA®RSV negative infants. Conclusions SOFIA®RSV tests performed in the laboratory and in the pediatric ED show high and satisfactory sensitivities among young children under 24 months, which supports its robustness and reliability. However, the impact of these tests on patient care at point-of-care cannot be clearly assessed when considering the limits of the study 2 design.

Morphometry characterization is an important procedure in describing neuronal cultures and identifying phenotypic differences. This task usually requires labor-intensive measurements and the classification of numerous neurites from large numbers of neurons in culture. To automate these measurements, we wrote AutoNeuriteJ, an imageJ/Fiji plugin that measures and classifies neurites from a very large number of neurons. We showed that AutoNeuriteJ is able to detect variations of neuritic growth induced by several compounds known to affect the neuronal growth. In these experiments measurement of more than 5000 mouse neurons per conditions was obtained within a few hours. Moreover, by analyzing mouse neurons deficient for the microtubule associated protein 6 (MAP6) and wild type neurons we illustrate that AutoNeuriteJ is capable to detect subtle phenotypic difference in axonal length. Overall the use of AutoNeuriteJ will provide rapid, unbiased and accurate measurement of neuron morphologies.

Egg parasitoids have evolved adaptations to exploit host-associated cues, especially oviposition-induced plant volatiles and odors of gravid females, when foraging for hosts. The entire host selection process is critical for successful parasitism and relevant in defining host specificity of parasitoids. We hypothesized that naïve egg parasitoid females reared on their coevolved host are able to exploit cues related to the coevolved host but not those from a novel host. We used the egg parasitoid Trissolcus japonicus, its coevolved host Halyomorpha halys, and the non-coevolved host Podisus maculiventris to evaluate this hypothesis. H. halys, a polyphagous pest native from Eastern Asia, has invaded North America and Europe, resulting in serious damage to crops. T. japonicus is the most effective egg parasitoid of H. halys in its native area and thus considered a major candidate for biological control. This parasitoid was detected in North America and Europe as a result of accidental introductions. Laboratory host range of T. japonicus includes P. maculiventris, an American predatory stink bug used as a biological control agent of several pests. Using T. japonicus reared on its natural host H. halys, we tested in a Y-tube olfactometer the responses of naïve parasitoid females to volatiles from tomato plants with a deposited egg mass and feeding punctures of either H. halys or P. maculiventris. Additionally, using two different olfactometer set-ups, we tested T. japonicus responses to volatiles emitted by eggs and mature males and females of H. halys or P. maculiventris. Tomato plants subjected to oviposition and feeding by H. halys were preferred by the wasp compared to clean plants, suggesting a possible activation of an indirect defense mechanism. Furthermore, T. japonicus females were attracted by cues from gravid females and mature males of H. halys but not from eggs. By contrast, naïve parasitoid females never responded to cues associated with P. maculiventris, although this non-target host is suitable for complete parasitoid development. Such lack of responses might reduce the probability of T. japonicus locating and parasitizing P. maculiventris under field conditions. Our experimental approach properly simulates the parasitoid host-location process and could be combined with the required host specificity tests for risk assessment in biological control programs.

Background: In the context of the global COVID-19 pandemic and the expansion of the more transmissible 20J/501Y.V3 (Gamma) variant of concern (VOC), mRNA vaccines have been made available in French Guiana, an overseas French territory in South America, from mid-January 2021. This study aimed to estimate the willingness to be vaccinated and the socio-demographic and motivational correlates among Health Care Workers (HCWs) in French Guiana. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January 22 to March 26, 2021 among a sample of HCWs in French Guiana. They were asked about their willingness to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and vaccine hesitancy, vaccine uptake and vaccines attitudes. Factors associated with willingness to get vaccinated have been analyzed with ordinal logistic regression, using Stata software. Results: A total of 579 HCWs were interviewed, including 220 physicians and 200 nurses most often working in hospital (54%) or in the liberal sector (22%). Overall, 65.6% of respondents reported that they were willing or had already been vaccinated against COVID-19, while 24.3% of respondents reported that they did not want to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and 11.2% were unsure. HCWs were more willing to get vaccine if they were older, were worried about COVID-19 and were confident in the management of epidemic. Conversely, participants were less likely to have been vaccinated or willing to if they were nurses or of another non-medical profession, born in French Guiana, feared adverse effects, or if they did not trust pharmaceutical companies and management of the epidemic by authorities. Conclusion: Negative attitudes towards vaccines are a major public health concern among HCWs in French Guiana when considering the current active epidemic with Gamma VOC. General vaccine hesitancy and concerns about future side effects in particular represent important barriers. Low confidence in government and science are significant in COVID-19 vaccine refusal among non-medical staffs. Public health messaging with information on vaccine safety should be tailored to address these concerns. The specific challenges of HCWs from French Guiana must be taken into account.

Over two years (2012–2014), 719 nasopharyngeal samples were collected from 6-week- to 12-month-old infants presenting at the emergency department with moderate to severe acute bronchiolitis. Viral testing was performed, and we found that 98% of samples were positive, including 90% for respiratory syncytial virus, 34% for human rhino virus, and 55% for viral co-detections, with a predominance of RSV/HRV co-infections (30%). Interestingly, we found that the risk of being infected by HRV is higher in the absence of RSV, suggesting interferences or exclusion mechanisms between these two viruses. Conversely, coronavirus infection had no impact on the likelihood of co-infection involving HRV and RSV. Bronchiolitis is the leading cause of hospitalizations in infants before 12 months of age, and many questions about its role in later chronic respiratory diseases (asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) exist. The role of virus detection and the burden of viral codetections need to be further explored, in order to understand the physiopathology of chronic respiratory diseases, a major public health issue.

Pentachlorophenol and chromated copper arsenate (CCA) have been used worldwide as wood preservatives, but these compounds can toxify ecosystems when they leach into the soil and water. This study aimed to evaluate the capacity of four treatment wetland macrophytes, Phalaris arundinacea, Typha angustifolia, and two subspecies of Phragmites australis, to tolerate and treat leachates containing wood preservatives. The experiment was conducted using 96 plant pots in 12 tanks filled with three leachate concentrations compared to uncontaminated water. Biomass production and bioaccumulation were measured after 35 and 70 days of exposure. There were no significant effects of leachate contamination concentration on plant biomass for any species. No contaminants were detected in aboveground parts of the macrophytes, precluding their use for phytoextraction within the tested contamination levels. However, all species accumulated As and chlorinated phenols in belowground parts, and this accumulation was more prevalent under a more concentrated leachate. Up to 0.5 mg pentachlorophenol/kg (from 81 µg/L in the leachate) and 50 mg As/kg (from 330 µg/L in the leachate) were accumulated in the belowground biomass. Given their high productivity and tolerance to the contaminants, the tested macrophytes showed phytostabilization potential and could enhance the degradation of phenols from leachates contaminated with wood preservatives in treatment wetlands.

Background: The need to incorporate tools to promote medical student wellness in medical education is underscored by the concerning rates of psychological distress among them. The objective of this prospective cohort study was to obtain preliminary data on the feasibility and effectiveness of an online mindfulness intervention for medical student wellness. Methods: A convenience sample of 52 medical students consented to participate in this study. Feasibility was assessed by ease of recruitment, number of modules completed, satisfaction with the program, and adherence to a regular meditation practice. Participants completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Jefferson Scale of Empathy-medical student version, the Five Face of Mindfulness Questionnaire-short form, and the Self Compassion Scale-short form pre and post intervention. Results: The convenience sample was recruited within a two-month period. Forty-five participants completed at least one of seven modules. Descriptive statistics (mean±standard deviation) revealed that the mean number of modules completed was 4.85±2.7. Mean satisfaction with the modules was 7.07±1.1 out of 10. Adherence to a regular formal meditation practice was poor; the average amount of formal meditation practice per module was 34.14±27.44 minutes. Self-compassion and the “observe and describe” facets of mindfulness practice significantly statistically increased from baseline, but no such change was observed for levels of burnout and empathy. Conclusion: The present study indicates that an online mindfulness meditation program may be of interest to medical students. The results did not provide any evidence that the program was effective but we believe further research and development is warranted.

Consequences of inter-annual environmental fluctuations, including those associated with climate change, can have a knock-on effect from individual to community scale. In particular, changes in species seasonal phenology can modify the structure and composition of communities, with potential consequences on their functioning and the provision of ecosystem services. In mild climate areas, aphids can be present in cereal fields throughout the winter, which allows aphid parasitoids to remain active. Using a 9-year dataset of aphid-parasitoid winter trophic webs in cereal fields of Western France, we report that the community structure and composition that prevailed before 2011 have recently shifted toward a more diversified community, with the presence of two new braconid parasitoid species (Aphidius ervi and Aphidius avenae), a few hyperparasitoid species and one aphid species (Metopolophium dirhodum). Modifications in minimal winter temperatures and frequency of frost events across the years partially explain observed community changes, although no clear climatic trend can be emphasized. Strong bottom-up effects from the relative abundance of aphid species also determine the relative abundance of parasitoid species each winter. Strong compartmentalization in parasitoid preference for host is reported. We suggest the recent modifications in parasitoid community composition to be linked to shifts in diapause expression (reduction or arrest of the use of winter diapause) and to host availability throughout the year. We highlight the implications for natural biological control in cereal fields. Perspectives are proposed to predict the composition of future host-parasitoid communities in the climate change context.

Determining the adaptive potential of alien invasive species in a new environment is a key concern for risk assessment. As climate change is affecting local climatic conditions, widespread modifications in species distribution are expected. Therefore, the genetic mechanisms underlying local adaptations must be understood in order to predict future species distribution. The soybean cyst nematode (SCN), Heterodera glycines Ichinohe, is a major pathogen of soybean that was accidentally introduced in most soybean-producing countries. In this study, we explored patterns of genetic exchange between North American populations of SCN and the effect of isolation by geographical distance. Genotyping-by-sequencing was used to sequence and compare 64 SCN populations from the United States and Canada. At large scale, only a weak correlation was found between genetic distance (Wright's fixation index, FST) and geographic distance, but local effects were strong in recently infested states. Our results also showed a high level of genetic differentiation within some populations, allowing them to adapt to new environments and become established in new soybean-producing areas. Bayesian genome scan methods identified 15 loci under selection for climatic or geographic co-variables. Among these loci, two non-synonymous mutations were detected in SMAD-4 (mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 4) and DOP-3 (dopamine receptor 3). High-impact variants linked to these loci by genetic hitchhiking were also highlighted as putatively involved in local adaptation of SCN populations to new environments. Overall, it appears that strong selective pressure by resistant cultivars is causing a large scale homogenization with virulent populations.

This article is the summary of a workshop, which took place in November 2013, on the roles of microorganisms in chronic respiratory diseases. Until recently, it was assumed that lower airways were sterile in healthy individuals. However, it has long been acknowledged that microorganisms could be identified in distal airway secretions from patients with various respiratory diseases, including cystic fibrosis (CF) and non-CF bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and other chronic airway diseases (e.g. post-transplantation bronchiolitis obliterans). These microorganisms were sometimes considered as infectious agents that triggered host immune responses and contributed to disease onset and/or progression; alternatively, microorganisms were often considered as colonisers, which were considered unlikely to play roles in disease pathophysiology. These concepts were developed at a time when the identification of microorganisms relied on culture-based methods. Importantly, the majority of microorganisms cannot be cultured using conventional methods, and the use of novel culture-independent methods that rely on the identification of microorganism genomes has revealed that healthy distal airways display a complex flora called the airway microbiota. The present article reviews some aspects of current literature on host–microbe (mostly bacteria and viruses) interactions in healthy and diseased airways, with a special focus on distal airways.

The article introduces the notion of dialogism enlightened by M. Bakhtine's texts. A conception of its origin will be dealt with as well as the three dimensions (interdiscursive, interlocutional, intralocutive), the levels and modes of its realization which underpin dialogism and mark its relevance for the study of discourses related to teaching.

The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is an invasive species in North America and Europe that damages many different host plants. Substantial work has been conducted on the genetic diversity and invasion pathways of H. halys in some of the countries where it has been found, based on mitochondrial sequences. The main objective of the present study was to further explore the genetic diversity of invasive populations of H. halys exploiting both mitochondrial and nuclear markers. We used two molecular markers: the mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) gene, an ideal standardized molecular marker for distinguishing closely related species, and the ribosomal Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 (ITS1), because only a few sequences of H. halys exist to this point in global databases. We used specimens from eight populations from Greece, Italy, Canada, and the US. Among the 14 haplotypes retrieved based on the mtCOI gene, two of them (H162–H163) were detected for the first time. These two haplotypes were found in specimens from Canada, Italy, and the US. Concerning the ITS1 region, 24 haplotypes were identified, with 15 being unique for a sampled population. In Greece and the US, 14 and 12 haplotypes were found, respectively, with 7 and 6 of them being unique for Greece and the US, respectively. Our analysis of the nuclear genes of H. halys indicates high genetic diversity of the invading populations in North America and Europe.

Peroxiredoxins (Prxs) are a family of thiol peroxidases that participate in hydroperoxide detoxification and regulates H2O2 signaling. In mammals, the four typical 2-Cys Prxs (Prxs 1, 2, 3 and 4) are known to regulate H2O2-mediated intracellular signaling. The 2 catalytic cysteines of 2-Cys Prxs, the so-called peroxidatic and resolving cysteines, are regulatory switches that are prone to react with redox signaling molecules. We investigated the respective modifications induced by H2O2, NO and H2S in the murine macrophage cell line RAW264.7 by mass spectrometry and immunoblotting after separating 2-Cys Prxs by one-dimensional or two-dimensional PAGE. We found that H2S, unlike NO, does not prevent H2O2-mediated sulfinylation of 2-Cys Prxs and that Prx2 is more sensitive to NO-mediated protection against sulfinylation by peroxides. We also observed that cells exposed to exogenous NO, released by Cys-SNO or DETA-NO, or producing NO upon stimulation by IFN-γ and LPS, present an acidic form of Prx1 whose modification is consistent with S-homocysteinylation of its peroxidatic cysteine.

The spotted wing drosophila Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae), a pest of berries stone fruits, invaded North America and Europe in 2008. Current control methods rely mainly on insecticides. The sterile insect technique (SIT) has potential as an additional control tactic for the integrated management of D. suzukii. As a step towards the development of the SIT, this study aimed at finding the optimum irradiation dose to sterilize D. suzukii under controlled laboratory conditions. Four-day-old D. suzukii pupae were irradiated 12 to 24 hours prior to adult emergence in a 60Co Gamma Cell 220 and in a 137Cs Gamma Cell 3000 with doses of 30, 50, 70, 80, 90, 100 or 120 Gy. Emergence rate (88.1%), percent of deformed flies (4.0%) and survival curves were not affected by the tested irradiation doses. However, some reproductive parameters of the flies were affected by irradiation. Females irradiated with a dose of 50 Gy or more had almost no fecundity. When non-irradiated females were mated with irradiated males, egg hatch decreased exponentially with irradiation dose from 82.6% for the untreated control males to 4.0% for males irradiated with 120 Gy. Mortality of F1 individuals from the irradiated treatment also occurred during larval and pupal stages, with an egg to adult survival of 0.2%. However, descendants produced by the irradiated generation were fertile. These results are an encouraging first experimental step towards the development of the SIT for the management of D. suzukii populations.

Background: Mindfulness meditation has gained momentum in medical circles for bolstering wellbeing and other facets of professionalism. This study evaluated the feasibility and benefits of a peer-led mindfulness meditation program (MMP) on medical student wellness and professionalism. Method: Pre-clerkship students were recruited and randomized to the 8-week MMP or wait-list. Feasibility outcomes included ease of recruitment, program attendance and homework compliance. Other outcomes included self-reported psychological distress, empathy, self-compassion, mindfulness, altruism and program satisfaction. Results: The MMP decreased levels of stress and enhanced mindfulness, self-compassion and altruism from baseline to post-study. Changes were not significant for the wait-list condition. Although satisfaction with the MMP was high compliance was suboptimal. Conclusions: A peer-led MMP is feasible and may be a promising approach to enhance medical student wellbeing. Further research is needed to explore strategies to improve program compliance in this student population.

Will the Convention on Biological Diversity put an end to biological control? Under the Convention on Biological Diversity countries have sovereign rights over their genetic resources. Agreements governing the access to these resources and the sharing of the benefits arising from their use need to be established between involved parties. This also applies to species collected for potential use in biological control. Recent applications of access and benefit sharing principles have already made it difficult or impossible to collect and export natural enemies for biological control research in several countries. If such an approach is widely applied it would impede this very successful and environmentally safe pest management method based on the use of biological diversity. The International Organization for Biological Control of Noxious Animals and Plants has, therefore, created the "Commission on Biological Control and Access and Benefit Sharing". This commission is carrying out national and international activities to make clear how a benefit sharing regime might seriously frustrate the future of biological control. In addition, the IOBC Commission members published information on current regulations and perceptions concerning exploration for natural enemies and drafted some 30 case studies selected to illustrate a variety of points relevant to access and benefit sharing. In this article, we summarize our concern about the effects of access and benefit sharing systems on the future of biological control.

Ferroquine (FQ or SR97193) is a novel antimalarial drug candidate, currently in development at Sanofi-Aventis. In contrast to conventional drugs, FQ is the first organometallic drug: a ferrocenyl group covalently flanked by a 4-aminoquinoline and a basic alkylamine. FQ is able to overcome the CQ resistance problem, an important limit to the control of Plasmodium falciparum, the principal causative agent of malaria. After fifteen years of effort, it is now possible to propose a multifactorial mechanism of action of FQ by its capacity to target lipids, to inhibit the formation of hemozoin and to generate reactive oxygen species.

Behavioural plasticity can drive the evolution of new traits in animals. In oviparous species, plasticity in oviposition behaviour could promote the evolution of new egg traits by exposing them to different selective pressures in novel oviposition sites. Individual females of the predatory stink bug Podisus maculiventris are able to selectively colour their eggs depending on leaf side, laying lightly pigmented eggs on leaf undersides and more pigmented eggs, which are more resistant to ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage, on leaf tops. Here, we propose an evolutionary scenario for P. maculiventris egg pigmentation and its selective application. We experimentally tested the influence of several ecological factors that: (i) could have favoured a behavioural shift towards laying eggs on leaf tops and thus the evolution of a UV-protective egg pigment (i.e. exploitation of enemy-reduced space or a thermoregulatory benefit) and (ii) could have subsequently led to the evolution of selective pigment application (i.e. camouflage or costly pigment production). We found evidence that a higher predation pressure on leaf undersides could have caused a shift in oviposition effort towards leaf tops. We also found the first evidence of an insect egg pigment providing a thermoregulatory advantage. Our study contributes to an understanding of how plasticity in oviposition behaviour could shape the responses of organisms to ecological factors affecting their reproductive success, spurring the evolution of new morphological traits.

INTRODUCTION:Comorbidities significantly influence the clinical course of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). However, their prognostic impact is not fully understood. We therefore aimed to determine the impact of comorbidities, as individual and as whole, on survival in IPF. METHODS:The database of a tertiary referral centre for interstitial lung diseases was reviewed for comorbidities, their treatments, their frequency and survival in IPF patients. RESULTS:272 patients were identified of which 12% had no, 58% 1-3 and 30% 4-7 comorbidities, mainly cardiovascular, pulmonary and oncologic comorbidities. Median survival according to the frequency of comorbidities differed significantly with 66 months for patients without comorbidities, 48 months when 1-3 comorbidities were reported and 35 months when 4-7 comorbidities were prevalent (p = 0.004). A multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses identified other cardiac diseases and lung cancer as significant predictors of death, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and diastolic dysfunction had a significant positive impact on survival. A significant impact of comorbidities associated therapies on survival was not discovered. This included the use of proton pump inhibitors at baseline, which was not associated with a survival benefit (p = 0.718). We also established a predictive tool for highly prevalent comorbidities, termed IPF comorbidome which demonstrates a new relationship of IPF and comorbidities. CONCLUSION:Comorbidities are frequent in IPF patients. Some comorbidities, especially lung cancer, mainly influence survival in IPF, while others such as GERD may inherit a more favourable effect. Moreover, their cumulative incidence impacts survival.

The human coronavirus NL63 (HCoV-NL63) was first identified in the Netherlands, and its circulation in France has not been investigated. We studied HCoV-NL63 infection in hospitalized children diagnosed with respiratory tract infections. From November 2002 to April 2003, we evaluated 300 respiratory specimens for HCoV-NL63. Of the 300 samples, 28 (9.3%) were positive for HCoV-NL63. The highest prevalence was found in February (18%). The main symptoms were fever (61%), rhinitis (39%), bronchiolitis (39%), digestive problems (33%), otitis (28%), pharyngitis (22%), and conjunctivitis (17%). A fragment of the spike protein gene was sequenced to determine the variety of circulating HCoV-NL63. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that strains with different genetic markers cocirculate in France.

Minocycline has been shown to be neuroprotective in various models of neurodegenerative diseases. However, its potential in Huntington's disease (HD) models characterized by calpain-dependent degeneration and inflammation has not been investigated. Here, we have tested minocycline in phenotypic models of HD using 3-nitropropionic acid (3NP) intoxication and quinolinic acid (QA) injections. In the 3NP rat model, where the development of striatal lesions involves calpain, we found that minocycline was not protective, although it attenuated the development of inflammation induced after the onset of striatal degeneration. The lack of minocycline activity on calpain-dependent cell death was also confirmed in vitro using primary striatal cells. Conversely, we found that minocycline reduced lesions and inflammation induced by QA. In cultured cells, minocycline protected against mutated huntingtin and staurosporine, stimulations known to promote caspase-dependent cell death. Altogether, these data suggested that, in HD, minocycline may counteract the development of caspase-dependent neurodegeneration, inflammation, but not calpain-dependent neuronal death.