Search

ABSTRACT In this study, an ANN‐based Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) location data reduction approach was proposed. As GNSS location data becomes more common, efficient data reduction techniques are needed to reduce transmission, storage, and processing costs. This involves selecting key points from the original trajectory to maintain integrity, eliminating redundancy, and lowering transmission and storage expenses. In this study, we proposed a new method for reducing GNSS location data in both online and offline settings, utilizing an ANN trained with a mathematically generated dataset. ANN has not been used in data reduction in the literature. The approach involves training the ANN with a window size of 3 and a threshold value of 10°, followed by using the trained model for data reduction. Experimental results show that the ANN achieves a reduction rate of around 59.18% compared to the original trajectory. Notably, the ANN yields a significantly lower RMSE compared to a mathematical method, particularly in areas requiring precision. Despite the slightly slower computation times, the ANN remains suitable for real‐time applications, demonstrating its efficacy for GNSS location data reduction. Our study highlights its online capability, reasonable reduction rates, and low RMSE values, distinguishing it from existing literature. This method shows potential for scenarios where balancing reduction rates with data quality is crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying and characterizing spawning locations are paramount for the protection of critical fish habitats but can be challenging, particularly in remote locations. Using the underexplored oviduct‐tagging technique, we aimed to identify the timing and location of spawning for wild Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus) and lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) in two high‐Arctic lakes in Nunavut. Specifically, Innovasea V7 acoustic telemetry transmitters were inserted into the oviducts of 13 Arctic char and 4 lake trout, and the timing and location of tag expulsion were determined using a fine‐scale positioning system. Twenty Arctic char and 20 lake trout were also tagged with abdominal V16 transmitters, and 10 of them were paired with the oviduct tags, to further study the behavior of individual fish during the spawning season. Oviduct tags from four Arctic char and one lake trout could be used to assess the timing and location of spawning. Spawning anadromous Arctic char drastically reduced their activity and remained proximate to their presumed spawning location immediately before and for months after spawning. In contrast, a non‐anadromous (i.e., freshwater resident) Arctic char and a lake trout showed little to no reduction in activity around presumed spawning events. Because of the highlighted sedentary behavior of inferred spawning anadromous Arctic char implanted with both abdominal and oviduct tags, we could also infer potential spawning based on the behavior of individuals equipped only with abdominal tags. Spawning areas identified via telemetry also aligned well with Inuit knowledge of those lakes. This is the first field study to use acoustic oviduct and abdominal tags coupled with a fine‐scale positioning system. Despite a limited success rate of ejection, the study reveals the strong potential of the method to study spawning habitat and timing, particularly in remote areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) typically presents with gait disturbances, cognitive decline, and urinary incontinence. Symptomatic improvement generally occurs following shunt placement, but limited evidence exists on the quality of life (QOL) metrics in iNPH. Therefore, we conducted a prospective study of the effect of shunt placement on QOL in iNPH patients, using Quality of Life in Neurologic Disorders (Neuro-QOL) metrics. Eligible patients underwent shunt placement after evidence of symptomatic improvement following temporary cerebrospinal fluid diversion via inpatient lumbar drain trial. Patients were administered short- and long-form Neuro-QOL assessments prior to shunt placement and at 6-month and 1-year postoperative timepoints to evaluate lower extremity mobility, cognitive function, and social roles and activities participation. Changes in QOL measures were analyzed using a repeated-measures linear mixed effects model. There were 48 patients with a mean age of 75.4 ± 6.3 years. Average short-form mobility scores improved by 3.9 points (14.6%) at 6-month follow-up and by 6.2 points (23.2%) at 1-year follow-up compared with preoperative baseline (P = 0.027 and P = 0.0002, respectively). Short-form cognition scores increased by 5.2 points (22.4%) at 6 months and 10.9 points (47.0%) at 1 year postoperatively (P = 0.007 and P < 0.0001, respectively). On long-form assessment, social roles and activity participation scores improved by 29.3 points (23.4%) at 6 months and 31.6 points (25.2%) at 1 year after surgery compared to baseline (P = 0.028 and P = 0.02, respectively). Our findings demonstrate that shunt placement leads to improved QOL in iNPH patients across multiple domains. Significant improvements in mobility, cognition, and social roles and activity participation are realized within the first 6 months and are sustained on 1-year follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commercial value of cucumbers is influenced by the presence of spines or trichomes on their fruit, while the trichomes found on other parts of the plant are essential for protecting the cucumber against a range of biotic and abiotic stresses. In our research, we identified a glabrous nwd mutant from EMS-induced cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) mutant lines. This mutant displays a consistent glabrous phenotype across all plant organs. Upon analysis, it was revealed that the nwd mutation is governed by a lone recessive nuclear gene. The nwd plants show a significant reduction in both their photosynthetic capacity and chlorophyll a content when compared to the wild-type. Furthermore, there are notable changes in the antioxidant enzyme activities, soluble protein levels, and malondialdehyde content of the nwd mutant. Genotyping and MutMap approaches identified the CsNWD gene, encoding a VPS protein, as a candidate responsible for the glabrous trait. Transcriptome analysis indicated that 15 trichome-related genes exhibit significant expression changes in the nwd mutant, implying that CsNWD may regulate trichome development through interactions with these genes. This study contributes to the understanding of VPS proteins in trichome initiation and the underlying mechanisms of trichome development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibrio cholerae, a facultative human pathogen and causative agent of the severe diarrheal disease cholera, transits between the human intestinal tract and aquatic reservoirs. Like other bacterial species, V. cholerae continuously releases bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) from its surface, which have been recently characterised for their role during in vivo colonisation. However, between epidemic outbreaks, V. cholerae persists in the biofilm mode for extended periods in aquatic reservoirs, which enhances environmental fitness and host transition. In this study, we investigated the effect of V. cholerae BEVs on biofilm formation, a critical feature for ex vivo survival. In contrast to BEVs from planktonic cultures, our results show that physiological concentrations of BEVs from dynamic biofilm cultures facilitate V. cholerae biofilm formation, which could be linked to a proteinaceous factor. Comparative proteomic analyses of planktonic‐ and biofilm‐derived BEVs identified a previously uncharacterised outer membrane protein as an abundant component of dynamic biofilm‐derived BEVs, which was found to be responsible for the BEV‐dependent enhancement of biofilm production. Consequently, this protein was named outer membrane‐associated biofilm facilitating protein A (ObfA). Comprehensive molecular studies unravelled ObfA as a negative modulator of HapR activity. HapR is a key transcriptional regulator of the V. cholerae quorum sensing (QS) cascade acting as a potent repressor of biofilm formation and virulence. Consistently, obfA mutants not only exhibited reduced biofilm production but also reduced colonisation fitness. Surprisingly, our results demonstrate that ObfA does not affect HapR through the canonical QS system but via the Csr‐cascade altering the expression of the small regulatory RNAs CsrC and CsrD. In summary, this study elucidates a novel intraspecies BEV‐based communication in V. cholerae that influences biofilm formation and colonisation fitness via a new regulatory pathway involving HapR, Csr‐cascade and the BEV‐associated protein ObfA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) represents one of the most classic and widely used treatments for hydrocephalus in pediatric patients. Migration and externalization of the distal end of the catheter through the rectum are extremely rare complications of intestinal perforation with devastating consequences such as meningitis or peritonitis due to enteric bacteria that are significantly life-threatening. Besides, one of the biggest topics with that is that it can happen without producing symptoms, like the patient we present in this case report, which further masks the condition and puts the patient's life more at risk. Case presentation: We present a case of a 9-month-old infant patient, with a history of prematurity, tuberculous meningitis (TBM), and hydrocephalus, who came to ED with a functional VPS and the distal end of the catheter protruding outside the rectum for 7 days, without presenting neurological or intestinal symptoms accompanying. One of the parameters that guided the diagnosis and made us suspicious of asymptomatic intestinal perforation (IP) was the background of TMB. The patient was immediately transferred to the OR where both ends of the shunt were removed: in the first instance, the shunt tube was disconnected through the abdomen, thus withdrawing through the anus, and subsequently, the proximal end of the catheter was exteriorized. In turn, the intestinal fistula was successfully repaired laparoscopically, and prophylactic antibiotic treatment was early administered. On the 6th postop day, a shunt was internalized, and a child was discharged on postop day 15 without complications with alarm guidelines. Conclusions: The authors of this article strongly suggest that (1) anal extrusion of catheters is an uncommon complication but real: for this reason, its development should be considered in all patients with VPS, especially in infants. (2) The patients are often asymptomatic since false tracts can form around the catheter protecting it from spillage, and thus can be removed without complications. (3) Special care should be taken in patients with conditions that increase the risk of developing IP, such as TMB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement is an effective method to treat internal hydrocephalus in dogs and cats. Although it has a long history in veterinary medicine, the technique continues to evolve. Despite continuing attempts to reduce the incidence of associated complications, shunt failure remains a major problem, and often leads to multiple hospital admissions. This review gives an overview about current knowledge of ventriculoperitoneal shunting techniques in animals, applicable shunt hardware as well as shunt-associated complications and their prevention and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement is an effective method to treat internal hydrocephalus in dogs and cats. Although it has a long history in veterinary medicine, the technique continues to evolve. Despite continuing attempts to reduce the incidence of associated complications, shunt failure remains a major problem, and often leads to multiple hospital admissions. This review gives an overview about current knowledge of ventriculoperitoneal shunting techniques in animals, applicable shunt hardware as well as shunt-associated complications and their prevention and treatment.

The commercial value of cucumbers is influenced by the presence of spines or trichomes on their fruit, while the trichomes found on other parts of the plant are essential for protecting the cucumber against a range of biotic and abiotic stresses. In our research, we identified a glabrous nwd mutant from EMS-induced cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) mutant lines. This mutant displays a consistent glabrous phenotype across all plant organs. Upon analysis, it was revealed that the nwd mutation is governed by a lone recessive nuclear gene. The nwd plants show a significant reduction in both their photosynthetic capacity and chlorophyll a content when compared to the wild-type. Furthermore, there are notable changes in the antioxidant enzyme activities, soluble protein levels, and malondialdehyde content of the nwd mutant. Genotyping and MutMap approaches identified the CsNWD gene, encoding a VPS protein, as a candidate responsible for the glabrous trait. Transcriptome analysis indicated that 15 trichome-related genes exhibit significant expression changes in the nwd mutant, implying that CsNWD may regulate trichome development through interactions with these genes. This study contributes to the understanding of VPS proteins in trichome initiation and the underlying mechanisms of trichome development.

Introduction: Internal hydrocephalus is the most common malformation of the central nervous system in dogs. Although the grades of ventricular distension have importance for long-term prognosis, there is no standard classification scheme describing the grade of the ventricular distension in dogs. Materials and methods: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans from 147 dogs of various breed, sex, skull conformation, and weight were reviewed retrospectively and blinded between three observers. Based on objectively assessable morphologic characteristics, the lateral cerebral ventricles were graded as normal, minimally, mildly, moderately, severely enlarged or end stage (grade 0 to grade 5), respectively. Evans' index or the ventricle brain index was also measured in all animals. Interobserver agreement between a very experienced, experienced, and unexperienced person was evaluated by the Spearman coefficient and kappa tests. Additionally, correlation to the ventricle brain index was determined using the Spearman coefficient and F-tests. Results: The Spearman correlation coefficient reached a very strong correlation (r = 0.97) between the experienced and very experienced observer and a strong correlation (r = 0.91) between the very experienced and unexperienced observer. The kappa value revealed excellent interobserver agreement between the very experienced and experienced observers (weighted kappa 0.91) and moderate between the very experienced and unexperienced observers (weighted kappa 0.75). The ventricular-brain index correlated (r = 0.94, Spearman coefficient test) with the grading system, indicating that a more elevated ratio was related to a more advanced degree of ventricular enlargement. The interobserver agreement with regard to the grade between the neurologist in training and a board-certified neurologist was excellent and between the board-certified neurologist and general practitioner achieved lower values. Conclusion: The presented MRI-based grading of ventricular enlargement is a reliable and functional method for an objective grading of the ventricular system in dogs. Some experience in MRI and brain anatomy is needed for interpretation and grading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Espirales Revista Multidisciplinaria de Investigación is the property of Grupo Compas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

ObjectiveTo investigate the incidence of infection after ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) insertion at the Bustamante Hospital for Children (BHC), Jamaica, West Indies.MethodOf the 178 patients managed by the Neurosurgery team at BHC, who underwent surgery between 2010 and 2016, 122 patients were subjected to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion procedure through a VPS placement. The patients excluded from this study included those with a VPS placed at another institution or one placed prior to the study period. There is a notable transition that saw a switch from the use of the Codman uni-port to Medtronic shunts in 2014–2015, which initiated the process of reuse of shunt passers. Clinical data were retrospectively collected from operating theater logs and available manual health records.ResultsOver the 7-year study period of the 122 first-time shunt placements done, 17 patients (13.9%) had positive CSF cultures, with an additional six (4%) having CSF pleocytosis with negative cultures. The most common isolate was the Staphylococcus species, occurring in 60% of VPS infections. The median time to shunt infection was 2 months. Of the 72 Codman shunts placed, six became infected, and 21.7% (10 of 46) of the Medtronic shunts became infected.ConclusionThe rate of incidence of VPS infection was 13.9% for the period between 2010 and 2016, with most infections occurring after 2014. The major causative agent was Staphylococcus species at 60% within a median 2 months of surgery. Overall, this compares well with data reported in the literature.

IntroductionInternal hydrocephalus is the most common malformation of the central nervous system in dogs. Although the grades of ventricular distension have importance for long-term prognosis, there is no standard classification scheme describing the grade of the ventricular distension in dogs.Materials and methodsMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans from 147 dogs of various breed, sex, skull conformation, and weight were reviewed retrospectively and blinded between three observers. Based on objectively assessable morphologic characteristics, the lateral cerebral ventricles were graded as normal, minimally, mildly, moderately, severely enlarged or end stage (grade 0 to grade 5), respectively. Evans’ index or the ventricle brain index was also measured in all animals. Interobserver agreement between a very experienced, experienced, and unexperienced person was evaluated by the Spearman coefficient and kappa tests. Additionally, correlation to the ventricle brain index was determined using the Spearman coefficient and F-tests.ResultsThe Spearman correlation coefficient reached a very strong correlation (r = 0.97) between the experienced and very experienced observer and a strong correlation (r = 0.91) between the very experienced and unexperienced observer. The kappa value revealed excellent interobserver agreement between the very experienced and experienced observers (weighted kappa 0.91) and moderate between the very experienced and unexperienced observers (weighted kappa 0.75). The ventricular-brain index correlated (r = 0.94, Spearman coefficient test) with the grading system, indicating that a more elevated ratio was related to a more advanced degree of ventricular enlargement. The interobserver agreement with regard to the grade between the neurologist in training and a board-certified neurologist was excellent and between the board-certified neurologist and general practitioner achieved lower values.ConclusionThe presented MRI-based grading of ventricular enlargement is a reliable and functional method for an objective grading of the ventricular system in dogs. Some experience in MRI and brain anatomy is needed for interpretation and grading.

An overview of PARCS (Parallel Asynchronous Recursive Control Space) technology developments is provided. The concept of the control space, i.e., a model apparatus, based on which the logical structure of the investigated problem (system) is described, and dynamic changes in it are reflected, is considered. The PARCS model is proposed whose application leads to flexible and unified adaptation to emerging programming technologies. PARCS-extension of the following programming languages is considered: PASCAL, C, FORTRAN, MODULA2, Java, CUDA, OpenCL, PYTHON,.NET, GO/PYTHON. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An overview of PARCS (Parallel Asynchronous Recursive Control Space) technology developments is provided. The concept of the control space — a model apparatus, based on which the logical structure of the investigated problem (system) is described and dynamic changes in it are reflected, is considered. The PARCS model is proposed, whose application leads to flexible and unified adaptation to emerging programming technologies. PARCS-extension of programming languages is considered: PASCAL, C, FORTRAN, MODULA2, Java, CUDA, OpenCL, PYTHON, .NET, GO/PYTHON.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A reduction in fluid absorption or an obstruction of normal outflow is a common cause of hydrocephalus. It typically requires medical attention, which frequently entails the placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) to lower intracranial pressure. We intend to list the few, documented examples of neurological impairments resulting from the installation of a VPS in this systematic study. Two search engines (PubMed and Cochrane) were used to conduct a systematic review from 1975 to December 12, 2021. The following search terms were employed: neurological deficits or neurological injury or palsies or thalamus or tract or longitudinal fasciculus or somatotropy or fasciculus or hearing loss or hemisensory or cortico AND ventriculoperitoneal shunt or VPS AND hydrocephalus. The inclusion criteria included VPS, neurological deficits, and human participants. The exclusion criteria included ventriculoarterial shunt, lumboperitoneal shunt, nonhuman subjects, and infection. Twenty trials in total, including a total of 25 patients, were included. There were 17 case report studies. A total of 35/785 patients (4.46%) experienced neurological impairments. In 9/25 (36%) of shunt cases had one of the three recognized causes: trapped fourth ventricle, dandy walker, or syringomyelia. Most of the patients developed VI, VII nerve palsies 11/25 (44%) followed by weakness, cerebellar symptoms, and VI nerve palsy. The brainstem was seen to be the most often injured structure (15/25; 60%), followed by deep brain structures (thalamus, basal ganglia, and white matter tracts; 20%). Even though ventriculoperitoneal shunting is a routine and straightforward treatment, issues can still arise. Although rare, there have been reports of cranial nerve impairments, therefore care should be taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Management of hydrocephalus symptoms in the setting of leptomeningeal disease (LMD) includes cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion, which can in the form of ventriculoperitoneal shunting (VPS) and lumboperitoneal shunting (LPS). However, the quantifiable postoperative course following this intervention is poorly defined. Correspondingly the aim of our study was to quantitatively define and analyze the pooled metadata regarding this topic. Methods: Multiple electronic databases from inception to March 2023 were searched following PRISMA guidelines. Respective cohort-level outcomes were then abstracted and pooled by means of meta-analyses and analyzed by means meta-regression, both utilizing random-effects modeling. Post-hoc bias evaluation was then performed for all outcomes. Results: A total of 12 studies were identified for inclusion, describing 503 LMD patients managed by CSF diversion – 442 (88%) by VPS and 61 (12%) by LPS. Median male percentage and age at diversion were 32% and 58 years respectively, with lung and breast cancer the most common primary diagnoses. Meta-analysis demonstrated pooled incidence of symptom resolution in 79% (95% CI 68–88%) of patients after index shunt surgery, and shunt revision required in 10% (95% CI 6–15%) of cases. Pooled overall survival from index shunt surgery was 3.8 mo (95% CI 2.9–4.6 mo) across all studies. Meta-regression demonstrated that studies published later trended towards significantly shorter overall survival from index shunt surgery (co-efficient=-0.38, P = 0.023), whereas the proportion of VPS to LPS in each study did not impact survival (P = 0.89). When accounting for these biases, overall survival from index shunt surgery was re-estimated to be shorter 3.1 mo (95% CI 1.7–4.4 mo). We present an illustrative case demonstrating the course of symptom improvement, shunt revision and an overall survival of 2 weeks from index CSF diversion. Conclusion: Although CSF diversion in the setting of LMD can improve hydrocephalus symptoms in the majority of patients, there is a non-negligible proportion that will require shunt revision. Postoperatively, the prognosis of LMD remains poor irrespective of shunt type, and despite possible biases within the current literature, the expected median overall survival after index surgery is a matter of months. These findings support CSF diversion as an effective palliative procedure when considering symptoms and quality of life. Further research is required to understand how postoperative expectations can be managed to respect the best wishes of patients, their family, and the treating clinical team. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biofilm growth mode is important in both the intestinal and environmental phases of the Vibrio cholerae life cycle. Regulation of biofilm formation involves several transcriptional regulators and alternative sigma factors. One such factor is the alternative sigma factor RpoN, which positively regulates biofilm formation. RpoN requires bacterial enhancer-binding proteins (bEBPs) to initiate transcription. The V. cholerae genome encodes seven bEBPs (LuxO, VC1522, VC1926 [DctD-1], FlrC, NtrC, VCA0142 [DctD-2], and PgtA) that belong to the NtrC family of response regulators (RRs) of two-component regulatory systems. The contribution of these regulators to biofilm formation is not well understood. In this study, we analyzed biofilm formation and the regulation of vpsL expression by RpoN activators. Mutants lacking NtrC had increased biofilm formation and vpsL expression. NtrC negatively regulates the expression of core regulators of biofilm formation (vpsR, vpsT, and hapR). NtrC from V. cholerae supported growth and activated glnA expression when nitrogen availability was limited. However, the repressive activity of NtrC toward vpsL expression was not affected by the nitrogen sources present. This study unveils the role of NtrC as a regulator of vps expression and biofilm formation in V. choleraeIMPORTANCE Biofilms play an important role in the Vibrio cholerae life cycle, contributing to both environmental survival and transmission to a human host. Identifying key regulators of V. cholerae biofilm formation is necessary to fully understand how this important growth mode is modulated in response to various signals encountered in the environment and the host. In this study, we characterized the role of RRs that function as coactivators of RpoN in regulating biofilm formation and identified new components in the V. cholerae biofilm regulatory circuitry.

Objective: Due to the substantial lack of data from Iraq on ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) complications, this study aims to examine the various types of complications after VPS surgery in Baghdad Medical City., Methods: The retrospective cohort study analyzed VPS procedures at Baghdad Medical City from 2019 to 2022. The overall complication rate, including infection and shunt malfunction, was determined from patient records. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board, with consent waived due to the study's retrospective nature. The findings highlight the need for improved management to reduce complication rates in VP shunt procedures., Results: The study involved 113 participants with an average age of 2.62 years (±3.4). The most common indications for VPS placement are congenital hydrocephalus (40%) and postinfectious hydrocephalus (30%). The most common complications of post-VPS surgery are VP obstruction (54%) and postsurgical infections (44%). There were no significant differences in the incidence of postoperative complications across different age groups., Conclusions: Our study showed the significant complication rate associated with VPS surgeries for hydrocephalus, particularly VPS infections and obstruction. There were no significant age-related differences in VPS complication rates across age groups., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Nucleic acid and protein co-condensates exhibit diverse morphologies crucial for fundamental cellular processes. Despite many previous studies that advanced our understanding of this topic, several interesting biophysical questions regarding the underlying molecular mechanisms remain. We investigated DNA and human transcription factor p53 co-condensates-a scenario where neither dsDNA nor the protein demonstrates phase-separation behavior individually. Through a combination of experimental assays and theoretical approaches, we elucidated: (1) the phase diagram of DNA-protein co-condensates at a certain observation time, identifying a phase transition between viscoelastic fluid and viscoelastic solid states, and a morphology transition from droplet-like to "pearl chain"-like co-condensates; (2) the growth dynamics of co-condensates. Droplet-like and "pearl chain"-like co-condensates share a common initial critical microscopic cluster size at the nanometer scale during the early stage of phase separation. These findings provide important insights into the biophysical mechanisms underlying multi-component phase separation within cellular environments., Competing Interests: Declaration of interests The authors declare no competing interests., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Protein trafficking to vacuoles in plants and fungi, and to lysosomes in animals, is essential for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the vacuolar protein sorting (VPS) pathway has been well studied by using vacuolar carboxypeptidase Y (CPY) as a model, and many VPS genes have been identified. By contrast, the vacuolar protein trafficking pathway in Schizosaccharomyces pombe remains poorly understood. In this study, we identified a novel VPS gene (SPBC1709.03) in S. pombe that is broadly conserved in fungi, but not in S. cerevisiae. Owing to its DUF3844 domain of unknown function, the gene was named vps3844. Disruption mutants of vps3844 had defects in both CPY sorting and incorporation of FM4-64 dye into the vacuolar membrane. Partial deletion analysis of the Vps3844 protein revealed that, within the DUF3844 domain, the region comprising amino acids 354 to 380 is important for protein trafficking to the vacuole. Our findings represent the first report of a VPS gene involved in vacuolar transport that is conserved in fungi, particularly S. pombe, but lacks representation in S. cerevisiae.

Currently, the world is undergoing a digital transformation of society. Most types of human activity are gradually being transferred to the digital dimension. Such a sphere of life as education is no exception. Every year, students attend classes face-to-face less and less, the reason for this is various factors. There is a need for educational institutions to switch to distance education. In this connection, difficulties arise in the use of computer laboratories located in educational institutions. So, today, the organization of remote access to computers of educational laboratories is a very urgent task. The purpose of the work is to create a system of remote access to the computer training laboratory from any user's computer by password using web technologies. The article discusses the process of setting up the server part of a virtual private network VPN on a virtual dedicated VPS server. Considered the sequence of commands in the terminal to install and configure the VPN backend. The process of connecting to a virtual private network from a computer of the educational laboratory is described, and the sequence of commands in the terminal for installing and configuring the VPN client part is considered. The installation and configuration of software for remote access on the computers of the educational laboratory is considered. Remote access is simulated, which provides the possibility of remote control of a computer mouse and keyboard, remote start of software, file exchange between a student's computer and a computer of the educational laboratory. Third-party software used in creating a remote access system is free redistributable and free. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofilm formation is critical for the infection cycle of Vibrio cholerae. Vibrio exopolysaccharides (VPS) and the matrix proteins RbmA, Bap1 and RbmC are required for the development of biofilm architecture. We demonstrate that RbmA binds VPS directly and uses a binary structural switch within its first fibronectin type III (FnIII-1) domain to control RbmA structural dynamics and the formation of VPS-dependent higher-order structures. The structural switch in FnIII-1 regulates interactions in trans with the FnIII-2 domain, leading to open (monomeric) or closed (dimeric) interfaces. The ability of RbmA to switch between open and closed states is important for V. cholerae biofilm formation, as RbmA variants with switches that are locked in either of the two states lead to biofilms with altered architecture and structural integrity.

BackgroundCryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic pathogen, which is more common in patients with AIDS. Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is an important complication of cryptococcal meningitis (CM) and affects the therapeutic effect of CM.ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect and treatment for the management of ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) in the treatment of AIDS complicated with CM and to analyze the factors associated with VPS and the indices affecting the outcome of CM patients.MethodsA retrospective case study was conducted on patients with CM treated in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine from 2011 to 2019. The Chi-square test was used for categorical variables and the Student’s t-test was used for continuous variables. Multivariable analysis of baseline factors related to VPS placement was performed with stepwise logistic regression analysis, factors associated with the outcome of these patients were studied by Cox regression analysis, and Kaplan–Meier survival curves were constructed to assess the outcome of patients.ResultsThere were 96 patients with AIDS complicated with CM. VPS had a great effect on the patients, especially those with ICP > 350 mmH2O. The outcome, including the mortality rate and modified Rankin scale (MRS) score of these patients, significantly improved after the placement of VPS. The karnofsky performance status (KPS) scores of patients whose ICP > 350 mmH2O improved from 39.3 ± 21.3 at baseline to 88.7 ± 26.9 at 3 months after VPS, better than those without VPS. Multivariable analysis showed that visual impairment (OR, 0.026; 95% CI, 0.001, 0.567; P = 0.021) and ICP > 350 mmH2O (OR, 0.026; 95% CI, 0.002, 0.293; P = 0.003) were related elements with the placement of shunt, and KPS score (HR, 0.968; 95% CI, 0.943, 0.993; P = 0.013) and ICP > 350 mmH2O (HR, 2.801; 95% CI, 1.035, 7.580; P = 0.043) were indices of the outcome of AIDS patients with CM. For patients with ICP > 350 mmHg, Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that the 3-year outcome of patients with VPS was better than that of patients without VPS (P = 0.0067).ConclusionVPS was associated with better 3-year survival rates, and postshunt placement complications like infections were rare. The identification of factors related to VPS in the initial diagnosis of CM can contribute to more active management and improve the outcome.

Komunikasi jaringan internet butuh keamanan, kemudahan, dan kecepatan transfer data yang baik. Hal ini harus diperhatikan oleh setiap pengguna dalam melakukan kegiatan di dunia maya atau internet, sehingga kerahasiaan informasi bisa terjaga dengan baik dan kemudahan, kecepatan pertukaran data bisa di implementasikan sehingga dapat menjadi suatu nilai lebih. VPN dapat terjadi antara dua PC atau bisa juga antara dua atau lebih jaringan yang berbeda. VPN dapat dibentuk dengan menggunakan teknologi tunneling dan encryption. Server OpenVPN menghasilkan profil jaringan terenkripsi, kemudian semua pengguna dapat membentuk jaringan VPN dan mereka dapat menggunakan layanan organisasi seolah-olah mereka secara geografis berada di tempat yang sama, konfigurasi ini juga memungkinkan penggunaan layanan atau aplikasi eksternal apa pun tanpa memengaruhi keamanan organisasi, VPN dapat berjalan pada IPv6 dan IPv4, dengan kelebihan yang banyak OpenVPN melintasi NAT (Network Address Translation). Jaringan VPN ini dibuat untuk memudahkan pekerja yang sedang melaksanakan aktivitas WFH (Work From Home) VPN sebuah koneksi virtual yang bersifat private dan tidak semua orang bisa mengaksesnya. Implementasi VPN dapat mempermudah komunikasi data jarak jauh tanpa khawatir ada tabrakan data, karena dengan menggunakan jaringan virtual ini dapat terhubung secara bersamaan. Dengan VPN, pengguna mempunyai keamanan data yang lebih dibandingkan dengan menggunakan jaringan lokal biasa. Ketika pengguna terhubung ke jaringan VPN maka akan mempunyai IP yang berbeda dengan IP Physical dibuktikan dengan tool tracert terlihat IP dan hoop. Raspberry Pi berfungsi untuk membuat sertifikat VPN client, karena fungsi tersebut tidak digabungkan ke dalam VPS Server karena masalah keamanan jaringan.

Background Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) and ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery (VPS) are used for the surgical management of pediatric hydrocephalus. There is controversy regarding the safety and efficacy of these procedures according to age, etiologies, and type of hydrocephalus. Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes and complications of ETV and VPS in pediatric hydrocephalus and to evaluate the better procedure. Material and Methods We retrospectively analyzed the pediatric hydrocephalus cases that were operated by ETV and VPS at our department from June 2016 to June 2019. Data were analyzed with respect to the etiology of hydrocephalus, age, and gender of the patients. We compared the outcomes (success and failure) depending on age at surgery, etiology, and type of hydrocephalus, complications at 12 months of follow-up. Fisher's exact test and chi-square test were applied to test the significance of difference. Results There were 195 pediatric hydrocephalus cases, which were operated by ETV (n = 43; 22.05%) and VPS (n = 152; 77.95%). The mean age of the cases was 53.63 ± 60.24 (ranged 0.5–204 months) in the ETV group and 53.44 ± 54.10 (ranged 0.3–210 months) in the VPS group. The male-to-female ratio was 1.41:1 in the ETV group and 1.21: 1 in the VPS group. Overall, ETV had successful outcomes in 30(69.77%) cases and VPS in 102(67.11%) cases at 12 months of follow-up. The complication rates were found in 7 (16.28%) cases in the ETV group and 38 (25.0%) cases in the VPS group. At initial 0.5 months of follow-up, ETV required revisions in 6 (13.95%) cases and VPS in 15 (9.87%) cases. Conclusion Although the success and failure of both the procedure vary according to the age at surgery, etiology and type of hydrocephalus, and complications, and failure rates on follow-up, there were no statistically significant differences between the two surgical groups in respect to these variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Acoustic positioning telemetry is nowadays widely used in behavioural ecology of aquatic animals. Data on the animal’s geographical location and its changes through time are used to study for instance movement patterns, habitat use and migration. The acoustic signals are detected by stand-alone receivers, allowing to collect huge amounts of data over long periods of time. However, large volumes of data might contain large errors. The traditional Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA) method used to calculate underwater positions, is a point-by-point approach: every position is calculated independently of all other positions. This method assumes that the acoustic transmissions follow a linear path. In many environments, this assumption is violated, for instance by reflections of the acoustic signal against hard surfaces, such as rock formations and concrete walls, or by diffractions around obstacles. Hence, acoustic positioning datasets usually require additional filtering. Unfortunately, the performance of the available filtering techniques is often unclear or ambiguous, especially when reflections occur. An alternative to the point-by-point approach, is a track-oriented approach, as used by YAPS (Yet Another Positioning System). This novel algorithm uses the information that is present in previous and subsequent positions, by combining a model of fish behaviour with Time of Arrival (TOA) of the signals on the receivers. In this study, we investigated the performance of two filtering techniques applied to positions provided by the Vemco Positioning System (VPS) in a highly reflective environment. We compared the unfiltered VPS positions with a standard filtering technique, making use of the Horizontal Positioning Error (HPE), and developed a new filter based on receiver cluster classification. Finally, we recalculated the positions with YAPS and compared the performance of this system to the two filtering techniques. Results The performance of the VPS system was strongly impeded by the multiple reflections occurring in this study area, but lowering the power output of transmitters can slightly attenuate this issue. None of the filtering techniques was able to compensate for reflections and to improve the positioning accuracy significantly. Only the YAPS algorithm could cope with the high level of reflectivity in this study site. Conclusions Point-by-point algorithms might fail to provide accurate fine-scale tracks in a highly reflective acoustic environment. As this study has shown, the YAPS algorithm can provide a successful alternative, even in these difficult conditions.

Hydrocephalus is often treated with CSF diversion via ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting. We present the unique case of a 33-year-old female with a history of infiltrating astrocytoma and consequent obstructive hydrocephalus necessitating shunt placement. She later presented with non-specific symptoms prompting shunt evaluation. Ultimately, while a cause for her symptoms was not identified, imaging revealed distal catheter migration into the pleural space. The patient remained asymptomatic during two years of follow-up without surgical intervention. This case highlights the potential for asymptomatic distal catheter migration after VP shunt placement and underscores the importance of appropriate monitoring and management once such migration is detected., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Griffith-Linsley et al.)

Objective: The prevalence, management, and outcomes of hydrocephalus remain underexplored in Africa. This study aimed to analyze demographic and clinical features, evaluate treatment strategies, and assess neurological outcomes of pediatric hydrocephalus in Africa., Methods: A systematic review of the literature using the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science electronic databases was completed according to the PRISMA guidelines to identify articles describing pediatric patients in Africa with hydrocephalus., Results: Seventy-four retrospective and prospective studies and 33 case reports involving 12,355 patients were included. In 54 retrospective articles reporting patient demographics, 53.8% (3926/7297) were male with a mean age of 12.3 months. Nineteen studies reported macrocephaly (80.2%, 1639/2043) as the most common presentation. The etiology of hydrocephalus was reported as postinfectious (41.0%, 2303/5614) across 27 articles and congenital (48.6%, 1246/2563) in 10 articles. Eleven articles reported 46.7% (609/1305) of patients had communicating hydrocephalus while 53.3% (696/1305) had obstructive hydrocephalus. Diagnostic imaging included CT (76.1%, 2435/3202; n = 29 articles), ultrasonography (72.9%, 2043/2801; n = 15 articles), and MRI (44.8%, 549/1225; n = 11 articles). In 51 articles, 83.1% (7365/8865) of patients had ventriculoperitoneal shunting (VPS) while 33 articles described 54.1% (2795/5169) receiving endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) for hydrocephalus surgical management. Postoperative complications included sepsis (6.9%, 29/421; n = 4 articles), surgical site infections (5.1%, 11/218; n = 4 articles), and CSF leaks (2.0%, 15/748; n = 8 articles). Shunt-related complications included infections (4.3%, 117/2717; n = 21 articles) and blockages (4.1%, 34/829; n = 6 studies). In 15 articles, 9.0% (301/3358) of patients with shunts had revisions. The mean follow-up duration was 18.9 ± 16.7 months with an overall mortality rate of 7.4% (397/5383; n = 29 articles). In the analysis of comparative studies, the 160 patients undergoing ETV demonstrated significantly higher odds of a successful operation (OR 1.54, 95% CI 0.51-4.69; p = 0.03) and neurological improvement at last follow-up (OR 3.36, 95% CI 0.46-24.79; p < 0.01) compared with the 158 who received VPS, but no significant differences were observed for complications and mortality between the two groups (p > 0.05)., Conclusions: This review offers a comprehensive summary of pediatric hydrocephalus in Africa, highlighting shunting as the primary treatment. However, the observed variations across studies highlight the need to establish standardized guidelines for reporting patient characteristics, management strategies, and outcomes to ensure consistency and comparability in articles.

As any other aspect of contemporary life, an old and established field of CME undergoes a transformation into a "digital age." Virtual patient simulation (VPS) has shown to be an interactive and efficient way of engaging healthcare professionals (HCP) in continuing medical education. VPS can identify gaps in knowledge and improve competence, using engaging, online tools. The Edocate VPS Platform has been developed by a group of physicians, education experts, and computer specialists. In this communication, we report the experience of several hundreds of HCP using the Edocate VPS application in the fields of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and hyperlipidemia. The Edocate VPS application, displaying both simple and complex clinical situations, was presented to an international group of HCPs who had the task to perform physical exams, order lab and imaging tests, update the medical record with the right diagnoses, prescribe medications, and perform long-term follow-up through multiple visits. The HCPs received personalized, guideline-based, feedback on their actions. The analytical capabilities of the Edocate VPS platform run very deep and allow in-depth analysis of learners' competence in achieving the best outcomes, while teaching to apply a personalized approach, avoiding side effects of medications, and providing instantaneous access to the most current references in the field. The data collected from the program has shown significant gaps in knowledge and adherence to guidelines in the areas of management of T2DM and hyperlipidemia. Only about 50% of all participants achieved guideline-compatible glycemic control – namely HbA1c below 7%. Furthermore, only 41% of practicing physicians and 23% of family medicine residents achieved levels of LDL below 70 mg/dl in their virtual patients. In conclusion, the data presented in this communication strongly suggests that this novel simulation platform can enable medical organizations to create immersive VPS cases for their primary educational and CME efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Space & Form / Przestrzeń i FORMA is the property of West Pomeranian University of Technology, Department of Architecture & Urban Planning and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

• Proposed the UEHAR/ANO 2 /O 2 system for treating coking wastewater. • The COD non-compliance rate reduced by 86.49 %. • The effluent VPs concentration decreased by 90.74 ± 3.69 %. • The BTEX removal efficiency improved by 10.63 ± 2.44 %. • DHA and ATP were increased by 67.23 ± 26.31 % and 40.62 ± 14.22 %, respectively. In this study, the performance of a novel up-flow electrocatalytic hydrolytic acidification reactor (UEHAR) and anoxic/oxic (ANO 2 /O 2) combined system (S 2) was compared with that of a traditional anaerobic/anoxic/oxic (ANA/ANO 1 /O 1) system (S 1) for treating coking wastewater at different hydraulic retention time (HRT). The effluent non-compliance rates of chemical oxygen demand (COD) of S 2 were 45 %, 35 %, 25 % and 55 % lower than S 1 with HRT of 94, 76, 65 and 54 h. The removal efficiency of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (BTEX) in S 2 was 10.6 ± 2.4 % higher than that in S 1. The effluent concentration of volatile phenolic compounds (VPs) in S 2 was lower than 0.3 mg/L. The dehydrogenase activity (DHA) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) of O 2 were enhanced by 67.2 ± 26.3 % and 40.6 ± 14.2 % compared with O 1 , respectively. Moreover, COD was used to reflect the mineralization index of organic matter, and the positive correlation between COD removal rate and microbial activity, VPs, and BTEX was determined. These results indicated that S 2 had extraordinary microbial activity, stable pollutant removal ability, and transcendental effluent compliance rate. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low pressure of inert gas in the vacuum chamber significantly affects the transfer of plasma particle velocity onto powder particles, residence time of powder particles in plasma and the kinetic energy of molten particles before the collision with the substrate. In addition to low pressure of inert gas in the vacuum chamber, the size and mass density of powder particles, together with plasma arc power, have the biggest impact on the average velocity of powder particles. To measure the velocity of powder particles in the vacuum chamber at low pressure, a laser speedometer is applied.The average velocity of molten powder particles V=s/t is calculated when the length of the path of powder particles that pass between two focus distances of the laser beam is divided by the time of particle passage between the two focuses. Measurements are done for vacuum chamber pressure, the values of which are usually from 6.7 to 80 kPa. The paper describes the relationship between the average velocity of Al2O3 and W powder particles and the vacuum chamber pressure, granulate distribution, mass density and plasma arc power. It was found that, for powder of lower mass density, the average velocity of particles can increase for 200 m/s with a decrease in chamber pressure.The effect of pressure on W particles of larger mass density is lower but still important, because a decrease in pressure increases the average velocity of particles up to 50%. Reducing plasma arc power reduces the maximum velocity of both types of powder particles. / Низкое давление инертного газа в вакуумной камере оказывает значительное воздействие на передачу скорости плазменных частиц на частицы порошка, время нахождения порошка в плазме и кинетическую энергию расплавленных частиц до момента соприкосновения с защитным слоем. На среднюю скорость частиц порошка, кроме низкого давления инертного газа в вакуумной камере наибольшее воздействие оказывает величина и плотность частиц порошка, а также сила плазменной дуги. Для измерения скорости частиц порошка в вакуумной камере под низким давлением используются лазерные измерители скорости. Средняя скорость частиц расплавленного порошка V = s/t рассчитывается, следующим образом: длина пути частиц порошка, прошедших между двумя очаговыми расстояниями лазерного луча делится на время прохождения частиц между двумя фокусами. Измерение давления производится в вакуумной камере, при давлении, которое чаще всего применяется: от 6,7–80 kPa. В данной работе представлено каким образом давление в вакуумной камере, распределение гранулята, плотность и сила плазменной дуги влияют на среднюю скорость частиц порошка Al2O3 и W. Исследования показали, что скорость частиц порошка с меньшей плотностью может увеличиваться на 200 м/с при снижении давления в камере. Выявлено, что эффект давления на частицы с большей плотностью W значительно меньше, хотя он тоже важен, так как при снижении давления увеличивается скорость частиц до 50%. При уменьшении силы плазменной дуги снижается удельная скорость частиц обоих видов порошков. / Nizak pritisak inertnog gasa u vakuum-komori znatno utiče na prenos brzine čestica plazme na čestice praha, vreme boravka čestica praha u plazmi i kinetičku energiju istopljenih čestica pre sudara sa podlogom. Na srednju brzinu čestica praha, pored niskog pritiska inertnog gasa u vakuum-komori, najveći uticaj ima veličina i masena gustina čestica praha i snaga plazma-luka. Za merenje brzine čestica praha u vakuumu na niskom pritisku komore primenjuje se laserski merač brzine. Srednja brzina čestica istopljenog praha V = s/t proračunava se kada se dužina puta čestica praha koje prođu između dva žižna odstojanja laserskog zraka podele sa vremenom prolaza čestica između dve žiže. Merenja se obavljaju za pritisak u vakuum-komori koji je najčešće od 6,7 do 80 kPa. U radu je prikazana veza između srednje brzine čestica praha Al2O3 i W u zavisnosti od pritiska u vakuum-komori, raspodele granulata, masene gustine i snage plazma-luka. Ustanovljeno je da se za prah manje masene gustine može, uz smanjenje pritiska u komori, povećati prosečna brzina čestica za 200 m/s. Efekat pritiska na čestice veće masene gustine W je manji, mada je bitan, jer se sa smanjenjem pritiska uvećava srednja brzina čestica do 50%. Smanjenje snage plazma-luka smanjuje maksimalne brzine čestica za oba praha.

Objective: Hydrocephalus is not rare in the child. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is still the gold standard in treating non-obstructive hydrocephalus in children. Several approaches have been described and in modern surgery, in which lesser invasive techniques are predominant. This study aims at presenting a minimally invasive technique for the placement of the abdominal part of the catheter. Methods: We describe a minimally invasive approach for the placement of the abdominal part of the catheter using a single-incision laparoscopic technique (SILS). Furthermore, considerations about complications, follow-up, and advantages and disadvantages of the above mentioned technique will be discussed. Result: These surgeries were performed successfully without any conversion. The operation time was 60 min, and the abdominal procedure was 11 min. The patient had the oral fluid intake 12 h later with the average hospitalization of 3 days after the surgery. During a 2-month follow-up, favorable cosmetic results were obtained with no relevant complications occurred. Conclusion: Single-incision laparoscopically assisted VPS is feasible and safe in the treatment of hydrocephalus with less invasive and better cosmetic results from the preliminary experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As any other aspect of contemporary life, an old and established field of CME undergoes a transformation into a “digital age.” Virtual patient simulation (VPS) has shown to be an interactive and efficient way of engaging healthcare professionals (HCP) in continuing medical education. VPS can identify gaps in knowledge and improve competence, using engaging, online tools. The Edocate VPS Platform has been developed by a group of physicians, education experts, and computer specialists. In this communication, we report the experience of several hundreds of HCP using the Edocate VPS application in the fields of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and hyperlipidemia. The Edocate VPS application, displaying both simple and complex clinical situations, was presented to an international group of HCPs who had the task to perform physical exams, order lab and imaging tests, update the medical record with the right diagnoses, prescribe medications, and perform long-term follow-up through multiple visits. The HCPs received personalized, guideline-based, feedback on their actions. The analytical capabilities of the Edocate VPS platform run very deep and allow in-depth analysis of learners’ competence in achieving the best outcomes, while teaching to apply a personalized approach, avoiding side effects of medications, and providing instantaneous access to the most current references in the field. The data collected from the program has shown significant gaps in knowledge and adherence to guidelines in the areas of management of T2DM and hyperlipidemia. Only about 50% of all participants achieved guideline-compatible glycemic control – namely HbA1c below 7%. Furthermore, only 41% of practicing physicians and 23% of family medicine residents achieved levels of LDL below 70 mg/dl in their virtual patients. In conclusion, the data presented in this communication strongly suggests that this novel simulation platform can enable medical organizations to create immersive VPS cases for their primary educational and CME efforts.

Copyright of Synergies Pays Germanophones is the property of GERFLINT (Groupe d'Etudes et de Recherches pour le Francais Langue Internationale) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare clinical and craniometric outcomes of patients treated for hydrocephalus following fetal myelomeningocele repair (fMMR) via a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) or endoscopic third ventriculostomy with choroid plexus cauterization (ETV/CPC)., Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of children who were treated for hydrocephalus following fMMR via VPS or ETV with or without CPC (ETV ± CPC) at Vanderbilt between 2012 and 2021. The primary outcomes were treatment failure and time to failure (TTF). Secondary outcomes included changes in hydrocephalus metrics (fronto-occipital horn ratio [FOHR] and head circumference measurements) and healthcare resource utilization (number of hospital admissions, clinic visits, and neuroimaging findings)., Results: Among 88 patients who underwent fMMR, 37 (42%) required permanent CSF diversion, of whom 19 received treatment at the authors' institution. Twelve patients underwent ETV ± CPC, and 7 underwent VPS placement at a median corrected age of 23 weeks versus 1 week (p = 0.002). The preoperative median head circumference percentiles and z-scores for patients in the ETV ± CPC cohort were similar to those of the VPS cohort (percentiles: 98.5 vs 94.0, p = 0.064; z-scores: 2.32 vs 1.60, p = 0.111). There was no difference in preoperative median FOHR measurements between the two cohorts (0.57 vs 0.59, p = 0.53). At 6 months postoperatively, the median head circumference percentile and z-score for the ETV ± CPC cohort remained similar between the two cohorts (percentiles: 98.0 vs 67.5, p = 0.315; z-scores: 2.12 vs 0.52, p = 0.307). There was no difference in the change in FOHR (-0.06 vs -0.09, p = 0.37) and change in head circumference percentile (-1.33 vs -28.6, p = 0.058) between the cohorts 6 months after the index CSF diversion procedure. One patient in the ETV ± CPC cohort experienced a seizure and a nonoperative subdural hemorrhage postoperatively; no other complications were observed. Six of the 7 patients in the VPS cohort required shunt revision with a median TTF of 9.8 months while 2 of the 12 ETV ± CPC patients required a repeat ETV at a median of 17.5 months (86% vs 17%, p = 0.013). The median number of hydrocephalus-related hospital readmissions was significantly lower in the ETV ± CPC cohort than in the VPS cohort (0 vs 1, p = 0.006). The ETV ± CPC cohort had fewer CT scans (0 vs 2, p = 0.004) and radiographs (0 vs 2, p < 0.001) than the VPS cohort., Conclusions: In a single-center cohort, hydrocephalic fMMR patients treated via ETV ± CPC remained shunt free, while a majority of patients receiving an upfront shunt required revision. This is the first study comparing ETV ± CPC with VPS in the fMMR hydrocephalus population. While larger, multicenter studies are needed, these results suggest that ETV/CPC may be a preferred means of CSF diversion following fMMR.

Background: Posterior fossa tumors (PFTs) comprise 15%-20% of adult brain tumors, with the reported frequency of hydrocephalus (HCP) ranging between 3.7% and 58%. Most HCP resolves after resection of PFTs, but studies report persistent or new-onset HCP occurring in between 2% and 7% of cases. Preoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS), external ventricular drain (EVD), or endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) has been shown to improve outcomes. Evidence regarding the efficacy of these techniques is limited., Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in line with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Data points were extracted from individual patient cohort data. A failure rate was determined by the number of patients requiring further postoperative CSF diversion., Results: In total, 8863 records were identified. Thirteen studies consisting of 17 patient cohorts met our inclusion criteria. Across all individual cohort studies, 2976 patients underwent surgical resection of a PFT in whom the frequency of hydrocephalus at presentation was 22.98% (1.92%-100%), and persistent hydrocephalus following preoperative CSF diversion was 13.63% (0%-18%). Of the 684 hydrocephalic patients, 83.63% underwent CSF diversion in the form of ETV, EVD, or VPS. Between years 1992 and 2020, 1986 and 2021, and 1981and 2013, the pre-resection ETV, EVD, and VPS failure rates were 14.66% (17/116), 16.26% (60/369), and 0% (0/87), respectively., Conclusions: This systematic review highlights that VPS has a better failure rate profile in minimizing postoperative hydrocephalus in adult patients with PFTs., Competing Interests: None declared., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Neuro-Oncology and the European Association of Neuro-Oncology. All rights reserved. For commercial re-use, please contact reprints@oup.com for reprints and translation rights for reprints. All other permissions can be obtained through our RightsLink service via the Permissions link on the article page on our site—for further information please contact journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Attached Vibrio cholerae biofilms are essential for environmental persistence and infectivity. The vps loci (vpsU, vpsA-K, and vpsL-Q) are required for mature biofilm formation and are responsible for the synthesis of exopolysaccharide. Transcription of vps genes is activated by the signaling molecule bis-(3′–5′)-cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP), whose metabolism is controlled by the proteins containing the GGDEF and/or EAL domains. The ferric uptake regulator (Fur) plays key roles in the transcription of many genes involved in iron metabolism and non-iron functions. However, roles for Fur in Vibrio biofilm production have not been documented. In this study, phenotypic assays demonstrated that Fur, independent of iron, decreases in vivo c-di-GMP levels and inhibits in vitro biofilm formation by Vibrio cholerae. The Fur box-like sequences were detected within the promoter-proximal DNA regions of vpsU, vpsA-K, vieSAB, and cdgD, suggesting that transcription of these genes may be under the direct control of Fur. Indeed, the results of luminescence, quantitative PCR (qPCR), electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), and DNase I footprinting assays demonstrated Fur to bind to the promoter-proximal DNA regions of vpsU, vpsA-K, and cdgD to repress their transcription. In contrast, Fur activates the transcription of vieSAB in a direct manner. The cdgD and vieSAB encode proteins with GGDEF and EAL domains, respectively. Thus, data presented here highlight a new physiological role for Fur wherein it acts as a repressor of V. cholerae biofilm formation mediated by decreasing the production of exopolysaccharide and the intracellular levels of c-di-GMP.

Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is an urgent neurosurgical procedure, effective in the reduction of intracranial pressure (ICP) in patients with elevated ICP and in complications of brain infarction that do not respond to clinical treatment; traumatic brain injury (TBI); intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) and aneurysmal intracerebral haemorrhage. Symptomatic hydrocephalus is present in 2 to 29% of patients who undergo craniectomy. They may require a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS). The literature does not yet show standard management of cranioplasty in patients who have previously undergone a shunt, showing evidence of sinking skin flap syndrome. This case shows parenchymal expansion after VPS occlusion and cranioplasty in the patient’s profile. The 23-year-old male patient, right-handed, went to the hospital in January 2017 due to severe traumatic brain injury following multiple traumas. The patient underwent urgent DC surgery for the management of elevated ICP. The patient developed hydrocephalus. hydrocephalus. It was decided to perform the VPS implant. After 2 years, and with quite a sunken flap, the patient was submitted to cranioplasty procedure after shunt occlusion was performed. The patient left the hospital receiving outpatient care with no more complaints. In spite of the favourable outcome, new studies are fundamental to decide upon the best approach.

Results of a CME-certified activity completed by a total of 986 cardiologists and 783 haematologists-oncologists (haem-oncs) from around the world were examined to determine whether virtual patient simulation could improve decision-making and performance within the simulation related to patient evaluation, tailoring anticoagulant therapy, and patient management to improve adherence using patient-centred care strategies. Results showed a significant overall impact of education from pre- to post-clinical guidance (CG) on correct decisions made in both cases for cardiologists, with a relative improvement of 22% for Case 1 (45% pre- to 55% post-CG, n = 475, t(474) = 14.12, P

The giant sea bass Stereolepis gigas Ayres 1859 (GSB) is a critically endangered top marine predator in California. Since protection in 1982 and 1994, the population has appeared to increase, and individuals within a growing population may expand their ranges to new habitats to reduce intraspecific competition and increase foraging opportunities. In 2016–2018, two GSB tagged with acoustic transmitters were detected at artificial reefs for periods of up to 3 months during October–March, and one individual travelled 53 km from an offshore island to mainland California in 56 h. Artificial reefs may provide important foraging opportunities for these protected marine predators as they recover from exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ventriculoperitoneal shunts (VPS) is commonly performed by pediatric neurosurgeons and there is no consensus in management of VPS infection as it relates to diagnosis and treatment. Objective: We utilized an international practitioner-based survey to study the variability in VPS infection diagnostic and therapeutic measures. Methods: A survey gauging practice patterns of pediatric neurosurgeons regarding VPS and its complication management was distributed. Survey endpoints were analyzed by VPS case volume and pediatric-focused case volume regarding diagnostic measures, use of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) profile, microbiology, and treatment. Results: A total of 439 surveys were distributed, with a response rate of 31%. Responders ranged from Americas (44.9%), European (31.4%), Asian (18.6%), African (2.5%), to Australian continents (2.5%). Practitioners were stratified based on number and percentage pediatric VPS performed. Institutions performing highest VPS and percentage pediatric case volumes had lower rate of VPS infection. Shunt tap was the most widely used diagnostic study. Overall CSF profile did not affect decision making towards VPS internalization, except for leukocyte count ≤ 20 × 109/L. Practitioners utilized 3 negative cultures prior to VPS internalization. Discrepancies in surgical management were noted amongst centers with high versus low VPS volume and proportion of pediatric-focused case volume. Practice patterns were not noted to be organism dependent. Antibiotic-impregnated shunts were utilized in the Americas and Europe over other regions but only in one third of all initial VPS or as a preventive strategy after a VPS infection has been resolved respectively. Discussion: Survey results from 6 continents in VPS management revealed patterns of lower infection in high-volume centers, 3 negative cultures prior to internalization and aggressive surgical VPS infection management in high-volume institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of a CME-certified activity completed by a total of 986 cardiologists and 783 haematologists-oncologists (haem-oncs) from around the world were examined to determine whether virtual patient simulation could improve decision-making and performance within the simulation related to patient evaluation, tailoring anticoagulant therapy, and patient management to improve adherence using patient-centred care strategies. Results showed a significant overall impact of education from pre- to post-clinical guidance (CG) on correct decisions made in both cases for cardiologists, with a relative improvement of 22% for Case 1 (45% pre- to 55% post-CG, n = 475, t(474) = 14.12, P<.001, Cohen's d =.46) and 19% for Case 2 (62% pre- to 74% post-CG, n = 245, t(244) = 11.95, P<.001, Cohen's d =.59). Impact also was seen for haem-oncs, with a relative improvement of 27% for Case 1 (45% pre- to 57% post-CG, n = 280, t(279) = 11.91, P <.001, Cohen's d =.60) and 19% for Case 2 (63% pre- to 75% post-CG, n = 147, t(146) = 9.52, P <.001, Cohen's d =.58). Virtual patient simulation improved cardiologists' and haem-oncs management of patients with pulmonary embolism in a simulated environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attached Vibrio cholerae biofilms are essential for environmental persistence and infectivity. The vps loci (vpsU , vpsA -K, and vpsL-Q) are required for mature biofilm formation and are responsible for the synthesis of exopolysaccharide. Transcription of vps genes is activated by the signaling molecule bis-(3′–5′)-cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP), whose metabolism is controlled by the proteins containing the GGDEF and/or EAL domains. The ferric uptake regulator (Fur) plays key roles in the transcription of many genes involved in iron metabolism and non-iron functions. However, roles for Fur in Vibrio biofilm production have not been documented. In this study, phenotypic assays demonstrated that Fur, independent of iron, decreases in vivo c-di-GMP levels and inhibits in vitro biofilm formation by Vibrio cholerae. The Fur box-like sequences were detected within the promoter-proximal DNA regions of vpsU , vpsA-K , vieSAB , and cdgD , suggesting that transcription of these genes may be under the direct control of Fur. Indeed, the results of luminescence, quantitative PCR (qPCR), electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), and DNase I footprinting assays demonstrated Fur to bind to the promoter-proximal DNA regions of vpsU , vpsA-K , and cdgD to repress their transcription. In contrast, Fur activates the transcription of vieSAB in a direct manner. The cdgD and vieSAB encode proteins with GGDEF and EAL domains, respectively. Thus, data presented here highlight a new physiological role for Fur wherein it acts as a repressor of V. cholerae biofilm formation mediated by decreasing the production of exopolysaccharide and the intracellular levels of c-di-GMP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]