Factors promoting the release of picrotoxin from the trap in the GABA(A) receptor pore

Picrotoxin (PTX), a convulsant of plant origin, has been used in many studies as research tool. PTX is the open channel blocker of the GABAA receptor (GABAAR). Being in the pore, PTX initiates transfer of the channel to the closed state and thus it falls into the "trap". The consequence of this PTX trapping is so-called aftereffect, i.e. continuation of the blockade of the GABA-induced chloride current (IGABA) after removal of PTX from the external solution. The present work shows that the positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of the GABAA receptor, allopregnanolone (Allo) and zolpidem (Zolp) as well as a high concentration of GABA shortened the PTX aftereffect. Experiments were carried out on isolated Purkinje neurons of the rat cerebellum using the whole-cell patch-clamp method. IGABA was induced by applications of 5 μM GABA (EC30) for 1 s with 30 s intervals. 50 μM PTX completely blocked IGABA, and recovery upon PTX washout occurred with a time constant (τrec) of 20.2 min. 1 μM Allo reduced the blocking effect of PTX by 30% and accelerated the recovery of IGABA by almost 10 times (τrec = 2.4 min). 0.5 μM Zolp did not change the IGABA block in the presence of PTX but accelerated the recovery of IGABA by more than 3 times (τrec = 5.6 min). Increasing the GABA concentration to 20 μM did not change the blocking effect of PTX, but accelerated recovery by 6 times (τrec = 3.3 min). The mechanism of the shortening of the PTX aftereffect is presumably the expansion of the GABAAR pore in the presence of PAMs and a high concentration of the agonist and, as a consequence, the escape of PTX from the "trap". The work describes new pharmacological properties of Allo and Zolp.

Spatial accumulation of flood-driven riverside litter in two Northern Atlantic Rivers

The escalation of litter accumulation in aquatic environments is recognized as an emerging global concern. Although rivers represent the main conduits for land-based waste into the oceans, the spatial dynamics of litter accumulation in these systems remain poorly investigated, especially after hydro-climatic extreme events. Floods have been identified as major drivers of litter mobilization, including macroplastics, within rivers. However, predicting flood-induced litter accumulation along riverbanks is complex due to the cumulative interplay of multiple environmental (geomorphological and riparian) and anthropogenic factors. Using empirical data collected from 14 stream reaches in two Northern Atlantic rivers in Portugal, our study evaluates which factors, among geomorphological, riparian, and anthropogenic descriptors, best drive riverside litter accumulation after floods. Taking into account the longitudinal gradient and the spatial heterogeneity of the studied reaches, our study enhances how the accumulation and characteristics (type, size) of riverside litter vary across a rural-urban continuum. Our model reveals that the combination of the human population density and the stream slope at river reach showed the highest explanatory power for the accumulation of riverside litter. Our findings indicate that litter tends to be retained close to the source, even under flood conditions. We also found that the structure of riparian vegetation showed low explanatory power for litter accumulation. However, riparian trapping could be influenced by litter input (density and type) which varies with anthropogenic activities. This work highlights the importance of gathering field data to identify critical areas of riverside litter accumulation within river basins. Our findings can further support environmental managers in designing and implementing effective cleanup campaigns and implementing plastic recovery strategies at specific areas. Nevertheless, it is crucial to enhance coordinated efforts across the entire value chain to reduce plastic pollution, promote innovative approaches for plastic litter valorization, and establish effective prevention pathways.

Natural Oil Lure Outperforms Trimedlure in Capturing Males of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly, Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Females of certain tephritid fruit fly species (Diptera: Tephritidae) pose an enormous agricultural threat, as they oviposit in commercially important fruits and vegetables. Trapping networks are often operated in fruit fly-free areas to detect incipient infestations. Trapping relies largely on male attractants, so-called male lures, with trimedlure (TML) being used to detect invasive Ceratitis spp. Operating large-scale surveillance programs incurs substantial costs for both supplies and labor, and the problem is exacerbated by the fact that trimedlure (as well as other male lures) is effective for relatively short intervals in the field (6-8 weeks). Because frequent servicing increases costs, there is considerable interest in modifying existing lures or developing new formulations to extend their effective field longevity. Here, we present results of a field study in Hawaii on a wild population of the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), that compared male captures in traps baited with (i) fresh liquid TML, (ii) TML plugs, (iii) a novel controlled-release TML sachet, and (iv) a novel natural oil blend dispensed from a sachet. Catch was recorded weekly for 12 weeks and then at 16 and 20 weeks, with 12 traps deployed per treatment. The natural oil formulation, which contains the natural plant product α-copaene, was as effective as the fresh liquid TML even after weathering for 20 weeks. Future work will focus on developing a dispenser for this formulation that is compatible with standard trap design and deployment.

Scintillation and radioluminescence mechanism in β-Ga2O3 semiconducting single crystals

In this paper, we present the results of experiments on samples of β-Ga2O3 single crystals under a project aimed at assessing and improving the scintillation performance of this material by studying scintillation and radioluminescence mechanism and its limitations. In addition to standard experiments, such as scintillation light yields and time profiles, radio-, and thermoluminescence, we developed and tested a new and promising two-beam experiment, in which a sample is excited by an X-ray beam and additionally stimulated by an IR laser diode. Fe and Mg doping compensate for the inherent n-type conductivity of β-Ga2O3 to obtain semi-insulating single crystals for large-area substrates and wafers. At the same time, residual Fe and Ir are ubiquitous uncontrolled impurities leached from the Ir crucibles used to grow large bulk crystals by the Czochralski method. For these experiments, we selected four samples cut from the Czochralski grown 2-cm diameter β-Ga2O3 single crystal boules; one with a reduced Fe content, two unintentionally Fe- and Ir-doped (UID) with lower and higher Fe content, and one doped with Mg. We find that steady-state radioluminescence spectra measured at temperatures between 10 and 350 K are dominated by the UV emission peaking at about 350-370 nm. Unfortunately, even for the best sample with a reduced Fe-content, the intensity of this emission drops precipitously with the temperature down to about 10 % at 300 K. From the two-beam experiments, we conclude that recombination via inadvertent Fe impurity involving three charge states (2+, 3+, and 4+) may reduce a steady-state UV emission of β-Ga2O3 under X-ray excitation by as much as 60-70 %, one-third to one-half of which is due to the recombination (specific for Fe-doped β-Ga2O3) involving the 4+ and 3+ charge states of Fe and the remaining 50-70 % being due to a more familiar route typical of other oxides, involving the 2+ and 3+ charge states of Fe. These losses are at higher temperatures enhanced by a thermally activated redistribution of self-trapped holes (STHs). In addition, the trapping of electrons by Fe and holes by Mg, Fe, and Ir may be responsible for scintillation light loss and reduction of the zero-time amplitude essential for the fast timing scintillation applications. Despite indirect evidence of competitive recombination in β-Ga2O3 involving a deep Ir3+/4+ donor level, we could not quantitatively assess losses of the UV steady state radioluminescence light due to the inadvertent Ir impurity.

Proteomics-based trapping with single or multiple inactive mutants reproducibly profiles histone deacetylase 1 substrates

Histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) plays a key role in diverse cellular processes. With the aberrant expression of HDAC1 linked to many diseases, including cancers, HDAC inhibitors have been used successfully as therapeutics. HDAC1 has been predominantly associated with histone deacetylation and gene expression. Recently, non-histone substrates have revealed diverse roles of HDAC1 beyond epigenetics. To augment discovery of non-histone substrates, we introduced "substrate trapping" to enrich HDAC1 substrates using an inactive mutant. Herein, we performed a series of proteomics studies to test the robustness of HDAC1 substrate trapping. Based on our recent results documenting that different HDAC1 mutants preferentially bound different substrates, which suggested that multiple mutants could be used for efficient trapping, trapping with three single point mutants simultaneously identified several potential substrates uniquely compared to a single mutant alone. However, a greater number of biologically interesting hits were observed using only a single mutant, which suggests that the C151A HDAC1 mutant is the optimal trap. Importantly, comparing independent trials with a single mutant performed by different experimentalists and HEK293 cell populations, trapping was robust and reproducible. Based on the reproducible trapping data, carnosine N-methyltransferase 1 (CARNMT1) was validated as an HDAC1 substrate. The data document that mutant trapping is an effective method for discovery of unanticipated HDAC substrates. SIGNIFICANCE: Histone deacetylase (HDAC) proteins are well established epigenetic transcriptional regulators that deacetylate histone substrates to control gene expression. More recently, deacetylation of non-histone substrates has linked HDAC activity to functions outside of epigenetics. Given the use of HDAC inhibitor drugs as anti-cancer therapeutics, understanding the full functions of HDAC proteins in cell biology is essential to future drug design. To discover unanticipated non-histone substrates and further characterize HDAC functions, inactive mutants have been used to "trap" putative substrates, which were identified with mass spectrometry-based proteomics analysis. Here multiple trapping studies were performed to test the robustness of using inactive mutants and proteomics for HDAC substrate discovery. The data confirm the value of trapping mutants as effective tools to discover HDAC substrates and link HDAC activity to unexpected biological functions.

Microfluidics for single cell analysis

Cells have several internal molecules that are present in low amounts and any fluctuation in its number drives a change in cell behavior. These molecules present inside the cells are continuously fluctuating, thus producing noises in the intrinsic environment and thereby directly affecting the cellular behavior. Single-cell analysis using microfluidics is an important tool for monitoring cell behavior by analyzing internal molecules. Several gene circuits have been designed for this purpose that are labeled with fluorescence encoding genes for monitoring cell dynamics and behavior. We discuss herewith designed and fabricated microfluidics devices that are used for trapping and tracking cells under controlled environmental conditions. This chapter highlights microfluidics chip for monitoring cells to promote their basic understanding.

A compound post-column re-focusing approach in supercritical fluid chromatography

Supercritical-fluid chromatography (SFC) is regaining popularity in various fields of analytical chemistry owning to significant advances in instrumentation made in the past decade. However, due to the CO₂ based mobile phase and the high flow rates often employed, detection of trace amounts of analytes and coupling with certain detectors or other chromatography techniques are still difficult under many circumstances. In this study we propose a post-column re-focusing approach for SFC analysis to achieve not only signal enhancement in UV-Vis detection, but also actual concentration enhancement of the analyte. By heart-cutting and transporting a selected fraction from the SFC flow into a trapping column with a flushing solvent, re-focusing of the collected analytes can be achieved by re-mobilization with another solvent once the depressurized CO₂ is eliminated. By carefully selecting the trapping stationary phase and the two solvents, signal-enhancement ratios between 2.2 and 6.4 were realized for four representative compounds eluting with very different percentages of SFC modifier (methanol). The actual concentration enhancement was lower (ratios between 1.7 to 2.9), because the UV response of the analytes was found to differ significantly under SFC and LC conditions.

Testing pigeon control efficiency by different methods in urban industrial areas, Hungary

The development of cities and urban sprawl has made room for wildlife inhabiting human environments. Among birds, feral pigeons (Columba livia domestica) are often present in large numbers in the cities. Problems related to pigeon occurrence result in economic loss and health issues for humans. There are different methods of controlling pigeon populations in urban areas. In this study, we compared three techniques that can be used for pigeon pest control. In two urban industrial sites in Hungary, we used trapping, falconry (in both Study Area 1 and 2) and mist-netting (only in Study Area 2) to remove pigeons. We compared the effectiveness and limitations of each method. Our results show that over 105 days in Study Area 1, we managed to remove 173 individual pigeons. We did not find a significant difference between the effectiveness of trapping or falconry. In Study Area 2, the overall number of pigeons removed was 1412 over a period of 150 days. There, we managed to catch significantly more birds by netting than by trapping or falconry, but the latter two did not differ statistically. We recommend a combination of techniques for pigeon control. Mist-netting can be the most effective way for direct pigeon removal, whereas trapping is an easier but less efficient method to catch pigeons. Falconry is the least efficient in pigeon catching and requires the most investments, but the bird of prey may chase the pigeons away for a short time.

Measurement of catestatin and vasostatin in wild boar Sus scrofa captured in a corral trap

Objective

Our aim was to analyse the chromogranin A-derived peptides vasostatin and catestatin in serum from wild boar (Sus scrofa) captured in a corral trap. Acute capture-related stress quickly leads to a release of adrenalin and noradrenalin, but these hormones have a short half-life in blood and are difficult to measure. Chromogranin A (CgA), a glycoprotein which is co-released with noradrenalin and adrenalin, is relatively stable in circulation and the CgA-derived peptides catestatin and vasostatin have been measured in domestic species, but not yet in wildlife.

Results

Vasostatin and catestatin could be measured and the median (range) serum concentrations were 0.91 (0.54–2.86) and 0.65 (0.35–2.62) nmol/L, respectively. We conclude that the CgA-derived peptides vasostatin and catestatin can be measured in wild boar serum and may thus be useful as biomarkers of psychophysical stress.

Microsurgical Clip Trapping of Dorsal Internal Carotid Artery Blister Ruptured Aneurysm: 2-Dimensional Operative Video

Dorsal internal carotid artery (ICA) blister aneurysms are an uncommon aneurysm variant constituting 0.3% to 1% of intracranial aneurysms and can be due to ulceration, atherosclerosis, or dissection.1-3 Despite its rarity, it carries a high risk of rupture with an estimation of 0.9% to 6.5% among intracranial aneurysms.1,2 Blister aneurysms are small in size, have no distinguishable neck, and have a friable wall that can easily rupture if manipulated, hence the difficulty in its treatment utilizing both microsurgical and endovascular techniques.1,2,4-6 Endovascular coiling of these lesions may not be adequate due to the broad-based size; stenting requires the use of antiplatelet medications, which could lead to rebleeding; flow diversion takes longer to exert its treatment effect.1,4 Conversely, microsurgical management carries a higher intraoperative rupture rate.2 Microsurgical options include clipping, clip reconstruction, trapping with bypass, and wrapping.4,7 We present a case of a 38-yr-old man who presented with a ruptured right dorsal ICA blister aneurysm treated with microsurgical trapping with intraoperative flow measurements. We demonstrate how the use of quantitative intraoperative flow measurements allows confident sacrifice of the supraclinoid ICA. We also demonstrate in contrast another case example of utilizing a clip-graft repair. The patient remained unchanged with an intact neurological exam, and postoperative imaging showed no aneurysm remnant and patent anterior choroidal artery. We review the literature and management of dorsal ICA aneurysms.8-15 We also review the technical nuances and different endovascular and microsurgical treatments that can be used for this condition.  The patient gave informed consent for the procedure and verbal consent to the publication.

Development of a Phytochemical-Based Lure for the Dried Bean Beetle Acanthoscelides obtectus Say (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

The dried bean beetle, Acanthoscelides obtectus, is an economically important, worldwide pest of legume crops including dry beans, Phaseolus vulgaris. Assessment of A. obtectus infestation levels in pre-harvest field crops and post-harvest granaries is difficult to achieve because there is no effective monitoring tool for early detection so that interventions can be deployed as needed. Because A. obtectus is a generic pollen and nectar feeder, we adopted an electrophysiological (EAG) screening approach, using the antennae of female A. obtectus to identify physiologically active, volatile phytochemicals, which could then be investigated for their attractiveness to A. obtectus in laboratory behavioral assays and preliminary field tests. Of the 27 compounds tested in EAG screening, 5 compounds, i.e., methyl anthranilate, methyl eugenol, benzyl alcohol, (RS)-lavandulol, and 2-phenylethanol, elicited stronger EAG responses than the standard (1-phenylethanol). In 4-arm olfactometer bioassays, female A. obtectus preferred the olfactometer arm containing the odor of either methyl anthranilate or benzyl alcohol compared to the solvent control. In preliminary field tests using these 2 compounds as a binary mixture, at least 5 times as many beetles were caught on baited traps compared to non-baited traps. The field data also suggested that benzyl alcohol was primarily responsible for the field activity of the blend. We hypothesize that the attraction of A. obtectus to the combined benzyl alcohol/methyl anthranilate and the single benzyl alcohol baits is connected to the species` nectar- and pollen-feeding behaviour and not to its intraspecific communication. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence that A. obtectus behavior in the field can be modified by the deployment of plant-derived semiochemicals.

Surgical Trapping of a Large Complex Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysm With Double-Barrel Bypass: 3-Dimensional Operative Video

Large middle cerebral artery (MCA) bifurcation aneurysms are known vascular lesions that are usually symptomatic but often difficult to treat (whether with open or endovascular techniques), especially when the M2 branches originate from the aneurysm dome.1-7 The challenge lies in securing the aneurysm while fully maintaining the flow in the vessels arising from the dome. Standard microsurgical clipping or endovascular techniques are not feasible in perfectly treating these aneurysms. Revascularization of the MCA branches with bypass and trapping of the aneurysm is often necessary. Here, we present a case of a large complex partially thrombosed right MCA bifurcation aneurysm with both the superior and the inferior divisions arising from the dome. The patient initially presented with a right MCA stroke and left hemiparesis. Using radial artery as an interposition graft, 2 bypasses-internal maxillary artery to the inferior division and superficial temporal artery to the superior division-were performed. The aneurysm was trapped and decompressed by placing clips at the M1 terminus and the M2 origins. Intraoperative angiography and postoperative NOVA (VasSol Inc.) magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) confirmed patency and excellent flow in the bypass grafts. The patient's postoperative course was uncomplicated, and at 2-mo follow-up, had significant improvement of her hemiparesis. The patient provided informed consent for the procedure.

Three-dimensional random walk models of individual animal movement and their application to trap counts modelling

BACKGROUND

Random walks (RWs) have proved to be a powerful modelling tool in ecology, particularly in the study of animal movement. An application of RW concerns trapping which is the predominant sampling method to date in insect ecology and agricultural pest management. A lot of research effort has been directed towards modelling ground-dwelling insects by simulating their movement in 2D, and computing pitfall trap counts, but comparatively very little for flying insects with 3D elevated traps.

METHODS

We introduce the mathematics behind 3D RWs and present key metrics such as the mean squared displacement (MSD) and path sinuosity, which are already well known in 2D. We develop the mathematical theory behind the 3D correlated random walk (CRW) which involves short-term directional persistence and the 3D Biased random walk (BRW) which introduces a long-term directional bias in the movement so that there is an overall preferred movement direction. In this study, we focus on the geometrical aspects of the 3D trap and thus consider three types of shape; a spheroidal trap, a cylindrical trap and a rectangular cuboidal trap. By simulating movement in 3D space, we investigated the effect of 3D trap shapes and sizes and of movement diffusion on trapping efficiency.

RESULTS

We found that there is a non-linear dependence of trap counts on the trap surface area or volume, but the effect of volume appeared to be a simple consequence of changes in area. Nevertheless, there is a slight but clear hierarchy of trap shapes in terms of capture efficiency, with the spheroidal trap retaining more counts than a cylinder, followed by the cuboidal type for a given area. We also showed that there is no effect of short-term persistence when diffusion is kept constant, but trap counts significantly decrease with increasing diffusion.

CONCLUSION

Our results provide a better understanding of the interplay between the movement pattern, trap geometry and impacts on trapping efficiency, which leads to improved trap count interpretations, and more broadly, has implications for spatial ecology and population dynamics.

Real-world treatment results for ruptured blood-blister aneurysm of the internal carotid artery: analysis of a Japanese nationwide multicenter study

Ruptured blood-blister aneurysm (BBA) of the internal carotid artery (ICA) remains a challenging lesion, even in the age of modern neurosurgery and endovascular treatment. This retrospective multicenter study aimed to investigate the real-world treatment choice and treatment results. We included 182 ruptured BBAs of the ICA treated at 51 neurosurgical centers in Japan between 2013 and 2017. The baseline patient characteristics, radiological features of the aneurysm, treatment modality, details of treatment, complications of treatment, and treatment results were retrospectively collected. The treatment strategy was divided into deconstructive and reconstructive procedures. Primary clinical outcomes were evaluated using the modified Rankin scale (mRS) at final follow-up. Direct surgery was performed in 144 (79%) cases, and the remaining 38 (21%) cases received endovascular treatment. The majority of treatment selections were deconstructive and reconstructive procedures in the direct surgery group and endovascular treatment group, respectively. Overall, favorable clinical outcomes (mRS 0 to 2) were achieved in 66% of cases, and the mortality rate was 15% at the final follow-up (mean 23 months). There was no significant difference in clinical outcome between direct and endovascular treatment groups. Our large nationwide study compared the real-world treatment options for ruptured BBAs and their results. Our findings may offer beneficial information for treatment decision and for future studies investigating ruptured BBAs.

A Case Series of Double Bypass Technique Used for the Treatment of Internal Carotid Blood Blister-like Aneurysms in Patients in Poor Initial Neurological Condition at the Early Stage of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Optimal surgical treatment of blood-blister aneurysms (BBA) remains controversial. Some surgeons prefer clipping reconstruction while others favor primary bypass with trapping.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze of benefit of double bypass technique to surgical outcomes in patients with ruptured BBA in poor initial neurological condition (PINC).

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of clinical, radiological, and surgical data in 9 patients treated between January 2009 and December 2015. Intraoperative middle cerebral artery blood pressure (MCABP) measurement was used for selection of bypass procedure.

RESULTS

Seven patients presented with World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) score 4 or 5. No pulse pressure in the MCA after internal carotid artery (ICA) clamping was found in 3 patients, although their ACoA or PCoA were well visualized on preoperative angiograms. By contrast, only a minimal drop in MCABP following ICA clamping was detected in two cases, although their collaterals were slim/nonvisualized on imaging. Although angiographic vasospasms were not observed in our patients, two of them experienced cerebral infarction, attributable more to the mass effect and postoperative ICA thrombosis than to SAH-induced vasospasm. There were 2 premature intraoperative ruptures, but no perioperative mortality, aneurysm recurrence, or rebleeding. Five patients with WFNS SAH score 4 or 5 achieved favorable outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Early double bypass technique guided by MCABP measurement and combined with trapping (or rarely clipping) seems to be a safe method with excellent long-term outcomes in patients in PINC. This study may thus contribute to the debate on the optimal treatment strategy for BBA.

Electrophysiological Responses of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly, Ceratitis capitata, to the Cera Trap® Lure: Exploring Released Antennally-Active Compounds

The Mediterranean fruit fly (medfly), Ceratitis capitata, is a worldwide pest of agriculture able to use olfactory cues to locate habitat, food sources, mates and oviposition sites. The sensitivity of medfly olfaction has been exploited to develop olfactory-based attractants that are currently important tools for detection, control and eradication of its populations. Among these is Cera Trap^® (BIOIBERICA, S.A.U.), a cost-effective bait. Here we used coupled gas chromatography/electroantennographic detection (GC-EAD) and GC/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) approaches to characterize the medfly antennally-active compounds released by this lure. We identified GC peaks corresponding to chemicals belonging to six different classes including heterocyclic aromatic compounds, aliphatic alcohols, aldehydes, esters, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, and aromatic alcohols. We tested ten potential candidate volatiles belonging to these classes and predicted to be emitted by the lure and found that they were eliciting electroantennographic responses in medfly adults. These results will help in unravelling the physiological mechanisms of odor perception in both sexes, especially in relation to Cera Trap^® attractant activity, which in the field has been shown to be female-specific. These findings and their developments will ultimately expand the toolbox for medfly control in the field.

Surgical treatment of intracranial blister aneurysms: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Intracranial blister aneurysms (BAs) are challenging vascular lesions related to high morbidity and mortality rates. Different surgical and endovascular techniques have been proposed to treat BAs; however, there is no consensus on a preferred treatment.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the pertinent literature on clinical and radiological outcomes of different surgical treatments for BAs management, to meta-analyze their clinical and radiological outcomes, and compare these results with those from recent meta-analyses on endovascular treatments for BAs.

METHODS

The present study was consistently conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Five different online medical databases (PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web-of-Science) were screened from 2010 through 2020. Papers reporting clinical and radiological outcomes of different surgical treatments for BAs were considered. Event rates were pooled across studies using random-effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 35 studies reporting on 514 patients (534 aneurysms) were included. Aneurysm clipping in 223 patients (45.4%; 95% CI 21.9-53.8), bypass and trapping in 87 (17.7%; 95% CI 1.89-21.6), clipping and wrapping in 82 (16.7%; 95% CI 3.71-19.0), and wrapping in 33 (6.7%; 95% CI 0.0-4.87) were the mostly common performed treatments. Complete occlusion rate was reported in 90.7% of patients. The complication rate was as high as 61.1%, the mortality rate was 7.4%, and the mean mRS at follow-up was 2.5.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis suggests that surgical treatments for BAs are related to higher occlusion, complications and mortality rate than endovascular strategies. However, there is a high-heterogeneity among the included studies and data are poorly reported; so comparing the two type of treatments is unreliable in order to establish which one is better.

Complete or Partial Parent Artery Sacrifice: Effect of Vessel-Occlusion Strategies on Complete Obliteration of Complex Aneurysms

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND

A small number of complex intracranial aneurysms are not amenable to direct clipping strategies or endovascular treatment. In these patients, parent artery sacrifice and bypass revascularization for aneurysm occlusion is an option. There are 3 strategies for parent artery sacrifice: trapping, complete occlusion of the inflow, and outflow segment; proximal occlusion of the inflow vessel; and distal occlusion of the outflow vessel(s). This study aimed to compare these techniques with regard to aneurysm occlusion rates.

METHODS

We reviewed our database for cerebral revascularization before parent artery sacrifice to treat cerebral aneurysms. We assessed aneurysm occlusion rates 3 and 12 months after surgery, outcome, and postoperative aneurysm rupture.

RESULTS

In total, 121 patients underwent parent artery sacrifice for complex aneurysms; 30% of the parent arteries were trapped, 58% proximally, and 12% distally occluded. Postoperative digital subtraction angiography revealed an aneurysm occlusion rate of 100% after trapping. Proximal occlusion led to early complete aneurysm occlusion in 71% of the cases, 21% occluded during follow-up. The complete occlusion rate was 96%, distal occlusion had an early aneurysm occlusion rate of 40%, 40% occluded during follow-up. Complete aneurysm occlusion rate was only 80%. All 3 techniques resulted in a volume reduction of more than 60% without a significant difference between the groups. The annual aneurysm rupture rate after distal parent artery sacrifice was 15%; there was no rupture after trapping or proximal parent artery sacrifice.

CONCLUSIONS

Trapping and proximal parent artery sacrifice seem to be superior to distal parent artery sacrifice regarding occlusion and rupture rates.

Wild boar behaviour during live-trap capture in a corral-style trap: implications for animal welfare

Background

Wildlife traps are used in many countries without evaluation of their effect on animal welfare. Trap-capture of wild animals should minimise negative effects on animal welfare, irrespective of whether the animals are trapped for hunting, research, or management purposes. Live-trap capture of wild boar (Sus scrofa) followed by killing inside the trap by gunshot is a recently introduced but disputed hunting method in Sweden. Approval of trap constructions is based on gross necropsy findings of 20 trapped and shot wild boars. For improved animal welfare evaluation, our aim was to study wild boar behaviour during live-trapping in a 16 m² square corral-style trap. Behavioural assessments were conducted after filming 12 capture events of in total 38 wild boars (five adults, 20 subadults, 13 piglets). Selected behavioural traits were compared with pathological changes (trap-related lesions) found at necropsy of the 20 subadults, to determine if these variables were useful proxies of capture-induced stress in wild boar.

Results

The wild boars spent less time resting in the evening than in the night and morning. Using Friedman’s ANOVA, there was an overall difference in the time spent foraging. However, we only found a difference between the evening and morning in the Wilcoxon matched pairs test after the Sequential Bonferroni correction, where the wild boars spent more time foraging in the evening than in the morning. Single captured individuals showed more escape behaviours and reacted more strongly to external stimuli than individuals captured in a group. It was more common for animals to charge against the mesh walls of the trap upon human approach compared to upon initial capture when the trap door closed. Trap-related pathological findings due to trauma were documented in 13 of the 20 subadults that were necropsied. Behavioural alterations indicative of capture-induced stress (e.g. charging into the trap walls) were documented in trapped wild boars with no or minor physical injuries (e.g. skin abrasions, subcutaneous haemorrhage).

Conclusions

Behavioural assessment provided valuable information for determination of capture-induced stress in wild boar when evaluating live-trapping in a corral-style trap, whereas pathological evaluation through necropsy did not fully reflect the animal welfare aspects of live-trapping. We emphasize the inclusion of species-specific behavioural data assessment for evaluation of capture-related stress during live-trapping and for testing of new trap constructions before approval.

Wild meat hunting and use by sedentarised Baka Pygmies in southeastern Cameroon

As a result of sedentarisation many Baka Pygmies have changed their mobility patterns away from nomadic lifestyles to living in roadside villages. These settled groups are increasingly dependent on cultivated foods but still rely on forest resources. The level of dependence on hunting of wild animals for food and cash, as well as the hunting profiles of sedentarised Pygmy groups is little known. In this study we describe the use of wild meat in 10 Baka villages along the Djoum-Mintom road in southeastern Cameroon. From data collected from 1,946 hunting trips by 121 hunters, we show that most trips are of around 13 hours and a median of eight hours. A mean ± SD of 1.15 ± 1.11 animal carcasses are taken in a single trip; there was a positive correlation between duration of trips and carcasses. A total of 2,245 carcasses of 49 species of 24 animal families were taken in the study; species diversity was similar in all villages except one. Most hunted animals were mammals, with ungulates contributing the highest proportion. By species, just over half of the animal biomass extracted by all hunters in the studied villages was provided by four mammal species. Most animals were trapped (65.77% ± 16.63), followed by shot with guns (22.56% ± 17.72), other methods (8.69% ± 6.96) and with dogs (2.96% ± 4.49). A mean of 7,569.7 ± 6,103.4 kg yr⁻¹ (2,080.8–19,351.4) were extracted per village, giving 75,697 kg yr⁻¹ in total, which is equivalent to 123 UK dairy cattle. In all villages, 48.07% ± 17.58 of animals hunted were consumed by the hunter and his family, around 32.73% ± 12.55, were sold, followed by a lower percentage of carcasses partially sold and consumed (19.21% ± 17.02). Between 60% and 80% of carcasses belonged to the “least concern” category, followed by “near threatened”, “vulnerable” and, rarely “endangered”. The only endangered species hunted was the chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes). We suggest that hunting is a critical activity that provides a vital source of food for our study communities. Measured wild meat extraction levels are likely to be sustainable if hunter densities do not increase.

(7Z)-Tricosene Improves Pheromone Trap Catch of Raspberry Bud Moth, Heterocrossa rubophaga

Heterocrossa rubophaga, the raspberry bud moth, is a pest of commercial Rubus berry crops and wild Rubus species. Its pheromone was initially identified as a single component, (7Z)-nonadecen-11-one. Here we report further investigation of this carposinid pheromone including volatile collection, gland extraction, mass spectrometry, microchemical analysis, electrophysiology and field testing. The alkene (7Z)-tricosene was identified from female gland extracts and the synthetic compound gave antennal responses from the male moth. Field testing of (7Z)-tricosene showed that it was unattractive alone but in combination with (7Z)-nonadecen-11-one it more than doubled male moth trap catch for all doses tested compared to that of (7Z)-nonadecen-11-one alone. We recommend a blend of 300 µg of (7Z)-nonadecen-11-one and 300 µg of (7Z)-tricosene as an improved monitoring tool for raspberry bud moth for use by berry growers. This is the second report of the Z-alkene as a pheromone component in the Carposinidae family among the three carposisnid pheromones identified to date.

Rescue Surgery in the Flow Diverter Era: Partial Trapping Plus Revascularization Technique for a Giant Carotid-Ophthalmic Aneurysm

BACKGROUND

Flow diverters (FDs) are an excellent option for the management of giant carotid artery aneurysms. However, in a nonnegligible percent of cases, the aneurysm may continue to grow despite multiple endovascular treatments and apparent occlusion on the angiogram. Due to the recent introduction of FDs, surgical experience after their failure is scarce and neurosurgeons have to face these challenging cases without much previous reference. Here we describe a giant ophthalmic-carotid aneurysm that presented with new severe mass effect 5 years after initially successful treatment with FDs and coils. We investigate the likely advantages of partial trapping versus complete trapping in this particular type of case.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 63-year-old patient with a subarachnoid hemorrhage from a 26-mm left carotid-ophthalmic aneurysm was initially embolized with coils. One year later a recanalization was observed and treated with an FD. Five years afterward, the patient's mild cognitive impairment prompted a magnetic resonance image that showed significant aneurysm growth despite apparent occlusion on angiogram. Rescue surgery consisted of partial trapping + extracranial-intracranial bypass and aneurysm debulking. The patient recovered from his deficits and remains asymptomatic 2 years later.

CONCLUSIONS

In selected patients with previous long-term FDs, partial trapping may be a choice even if aneurysm debulking is needed. After years of stent placement, some endothelialization and neointimal membrane formation could have a summing effect to facilitate surgical exclusion and enable a safe thrombectomy. Classic revascularization techniques must be rethought and retested in this new FD era scenario.

Neuroendoscope-Assisted Aneurysm Trapping for Ruptured Intraventricular Aneurysms in Moyamoya Disease Patients

BACKGROUND

Intracranial hematomas associated with abnormal collateral vessels are observed in certain populations of adult patients with moyamoya disease (MMD). Of these, intraventricular hematomas resulting from rupture of intraventricular aneurysms, which are formed along an abnormal peripheral choroidal artery, are sometimes detected and could be severe. No appropriate treatment option for these ruptured aneurysms has been well established to date. Therefore in this report, we describe the case of an MMD patient with an intraventricular hematoma resulting from a ruptured intraventricular aneurysm arising along the abnormal collateral vessels near the lateral ventricular wall, which was successfully treated using a neuroendoscope.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 53-year-old female with MMD presented with an intraventricular hematoma. The patient had already undergone bilateral, combined direct/indirect cerebral revascularization surgery 3 years prior. Digital subtraction angiography revealed an aneurysm along the abnormal collateral choroidal artery near the posterior horn of the left lateral ventricle. A neuroendoscopic technique was applied to approach and treat the aneurysm; this was performed successfully by trapping using aneurysm clips without intraoperative or postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Neuroendoscopic aneurysm trapping using aneurysm clips is a treatment option for an intraventricular aneurysm that causes an intraventricular hematoma in patients with MMD. This technique is minimally invasive and offers good visibility of the surgical field.

Optimisation and field validation of odour-baited traps for surveillance of Aedes aegypti adults in Paramaribo, Suriname

BACKGROUND

Emerging arboviral diseases like Zika, dengue and chikungunya that are transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, are increasingly threatening human health. Blends of human-like synthetic chemical attractants can be used to attract host-seeking mosquitoes. The aim of this study was to test new combinations of traps and odour baits in the laboratory, followed by testing the best candidates in the field to improve Ae. aegypti monitoring and surveillance.

METHODS

First, the BG-Suna trap was evaluated for capturing laboratory-reared Ae. aegypti by testing normal and inverted positions in screen cage tests. Secondly, the attractiveness of the MB5 blend, CO₂, and their combination was tested. Thirdly, we tested the attractiveness of different trap types (BG-Suna, BG-Sentinel, MM-X and CDC light trap). Finally, we confirmed laboratory results in the field in Paramaribo, Suriname, using the MB5 and BG-Lure odour blends, CO₂ and the BG-Sentinel and BG-Bowl trap using a Latin Square design.

RESULTS

The MB5 blend in combination with CO₂ outperformed traps baited only with CO₂ or MB5 in screen cage tests (P < 0.0001). The BG-Sentinel trap performed equally well as the inverted BG-Suna and was taken to the field (P = 0.729). In the field, we captured Ae. aegypti, Cx. quinquefasciatus and Cx. nigripalpus. We confirmed the laboratory results and found that the combination of the MB5 blend and CO₂ almost doubled Ae. aegypti female captures (P = 0.004) and more than doubled Culex spp. female captures (P = 0.005) compared to using only CO₂. Interestingly, the MB5 blend outperformed the commercially available BG-Lure, in the BG-Sentinel (P < 0.001). The BG-Bowl also attracted Ae. aegypti when baited with the MB5 blend in similar numbers as the BG-Sentinel baited with the MB5 (P = 0.362).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that the BG-Sentinel trap baited with the MB5 blend and CO₂ outperforms the current golden standard (BG-Sentinel trap with BG-Lure) for monitoring Ae. aegypti females and males, in both laboratory and field experiments. The BG-Bowl baited with the MB5 blend is a good candidate for home use. Finally, the results show that CO₂ is an indispensable component of the attractive blend.

Electrothermal transport of third-order fluids regulated by peristaltic pumping

The study of heat and electroosmotic characteristics in the flow of a third-order fluid regulated by peristaltic pumping is examined by using governing equations, i.e., the continuity equation, momentum equation, energy equation, and concentration equation. The wavelength is considered long compared to its height and a low Reynolds number is assumed. The velocity slip condition is employed. Analytical solutions are performed through the perturbation technique. The expressions for the dimensionless velocity components, temperature, concentration, and heat transfer rate are obtained. Pumping features were computed numerically for discussion of results. Trapping and heat transfer coefficient distributions were also studied graphically. The findings of the present study can be applied to design biomicrofluidic devices like tumor-on-a-chip and organ-on-a-chip.

Signalling molecule transport analysis in lacunar-canalicular system

Mechanical loading-induced fluid flow in lacunar-canalicular space (LCS) of bone excites osteocyte cells to release signalling molecules which initiate osteo-activities. Theoretical models considered canaliculi as a uniform and symmetrical space/channel in bone. However, experimental studies reported that canalicular walls are irregular and curvy resulting in inhomogeneous fluid motion which may influence the molecular transport. Therefore, a new mathematical model of LCS with curvy canalicular walls is developed to characterize cantilever bending-induced canalicular flow behaviour in terms of pore-pressure, fluid velocity, and streamlines. The model also analyses the mobility of signalling molecules involved in bone mechanotransduction as a function of loading frequency and permeability of LCS. Inhomogeneous flow is observed at higher loading frequency which amplifies mechanotransduction; nevertheless, it also promotes trapping of signalling molecules. The effects of shape and size of signalling molecules on transport behaviour are also studied. Trivially, signalling molecules larger in size and weight move slower as compared to molecules small in size and weight which validates the findings of the present study. The outcomes will ultimately be useful in designing better biomechanical exercise in combination with pharmaceutical agents to improve the bone health.

Surgical Trapping With Revascularization of Concomitant Cervical and Petrous Internal Carotid Artery Aneurysms: 2-Dimensional Operative Video

Petrous internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms are rare, complicated lesions to treat. The management paradigms include observation, endovascular exclusion, or surgical trapping with or without revascularization. The case described in this video involved a 67-yr-old woman with a known history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, who presented after a mechanical ground-level fall. Clinically, she had a nasal deformity and resolving epistaxis consistent with mild facial trauma. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a comminuted nasal bone fracture and an incidental 3-cm right petrous ICA aneurysm. Subsequent vascular imaging demonstrated a concurrent 1.5-cm right cervical ICA dissecting pseudoaneurysm. Flow diversion with a Pipeline stent (Medtronic, Dublin, Ireland) was unsuccessful because the aneurysm's size precluded microcatheter selection of the ICA distal to the lesion. When the patient did not tolerate balloon test occlusion of the ICA, we proceeded with surgical trapping of both aneurysms and high-flow extracranial-to-intracranial bypass. The patient underwent a right frontotemporal craniotomy and an external carotid artery-to-frontal M2 middle cerebral artery bypass with a radial artery graft. Following a clinoidectomy, an aneurysm clip was applied to the paraclinoid ICA, and the cervical ICA was ligated just distal to the bifurcation, effectively trapping both aneurysms. The patient tolerated the procedure well. Postoperatively, she experienced symptomatic hypotension requiring vasopressor therapy and a transient partial oculomotor palsy that resolved during her hospital course. She was discharged home without neurological sequelae. Postoperative CT angiography demonstrated complete exclusion of the ICA aneurysms and a patent radial bypass graft after surgery and at 6-month follow-up. The patient provided consent for publication.

Trapping, dome puncture, and direct suction decompression in conjunction with assistant superficial temporal artery- middle cerebral artery bypass to clip giant internal carotid artery bifurcation aneurysm

Background:

Very large and giant aneurysms (≥20 mm) of the internal carotid artery (ICA) bifurcation (ICAbif) are definitely rare, and optimal treatment is not established. Endovascular treatments are reported as suboptimal due to difficulties of complete occlusion and tendencies to recanalization. Therefore, direct surgery remains an effective strategy if the clipping can be performed safely and reliably, although very difficult.

Case Description:

Two cases of ICAbif aneurysms (>20 mm) were treated. Prior assistant superficial temporal artery (STA)-middle cerebral artery (MCA) bypass was performed to avoid ischemic complications during prolonged temporary occlusion of the arteries in both cases. In Case 1 (22-mm aneurysm), the dome was inadvertently torn in applying the clip because trapping had resulted in insufficient decompression. Therefore, in Case 2 (28-mm aneurysm), almost complete trapping of the aneurysm and subsequent dome puncture was performed, and the aneurysm was totally deflated by suction from the incision. This complete aneurysm decompression allowed safe dissection and successful clipping.

Conclusion:

Trapping, deliberate aneurysm dome puncture, and suction decompression from the incision in conjunction with assistant STA-MCA bypass can achieve complete aneurysm deflation, and these techniques enable safe dissection of the aneurysm and direct clipping of the aneurysm neck. Direct clipping with this technique for very large and giant ICAbif aneurysms may be the optimal treatment choice with the acceptable outcome if endovascular treatment remains suboptimal.

Development of a Female-Targeted Lure for the Box Tree Moth Cydalima perspectalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae): a Preliminary Report

The box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis, is an invasive pest in Europe causing damage on Buxus species. In this study, we aimed to develop a "bisexual" lure to attract both female and male moths. Based on a previous screening bioassay we tested methyl salicylate, phenylacetaldehyde and eugenol as potential attractants in different combinations. The trapping results showed that both binary and ternary blends attracted male and female moths. Catches with these blends were comparable to catches with the synthetic pheromone. Subsequently we carried out single sensillum recordings, which proved the peripheral detection of the above-mentioned compounds on male and female antennae. To identify synergistic flower volatiles, which can be also attractive and can increase the trap capture, we collected flower headspace volatiles from 12 different flowering plant species. Several components of the floral scents evoked good responses from antennae of both females and males in gas chromatography-electroantennographic detection. The most active components were tentatively identified by gas chromatography coupled mass spectrometry as benzaldehyde, cis-ß-ocimene, (±)-linalool and phenethyl alcohol. These selected compounds in combination did not increase significantly the trap capture compared to the methyl salicylate- phenyacetaldehyde blend. Based on these results we discovered the first attractive blend, which was able to attract both adult male and female C. perspectalis in field conditions. These results will yield a good basis for the optimization and development of a practically usable bisexual lure against this invasive pest.

A Retrospective Study in Microsurgical Procedures of Large and Giant Intracranial Aneurysms: An Outcome Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Intracranial aneurysms are considered large if >10 mm and giant if >25 mm. The risk of aneurysmal rupture compounds with increase in size of the aneurysm, thus, warranting appropriate intervention. In this study, we have analyzed the outcome and effectiveness of microsurgical procedures in large and giant aneurysms.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all the patients who underwent microsurgical procedures for large and giant cerebral aneurysms from 2014-2018 in our institute was conducted. There were a total of 52 patients, in which direct clipping was performed in 42 (80.7%) patients, proximal trapping in 3 (5.7%) patients, trapping with bypass in 3 (5.7%) patients, suction decompression in 3 (5.7%) patients, and 1 (1.9%) patient underwent surgical reconstruction.

RESULTS

Among the 52 patients, in the postoperative period, 1 (1.9%) patient became comatose, 1 (1.9%) patient developed hemiplegia, 1 (1.9%) patient had a transient hemiparesis, and 1 (1.9%) patient had transient lower cranial nerve palsy. Two (3.8%) patients had chronic subdural hematoma during the 3-month follow-up. There was no mortality in our series.

CONCLUSIONS

There are several treatment strategies available to manage large and giant cerebral aneurysms. In this study, we had minimal morbidity (3.8%), favorable outcome (96.1%), and no mortality. Therefore, we would like to conclude that appropriate microsurgical procedures, in experienced hands, can be considered as first line in the management for large and giant intracranial aneurysms, especially those with complex anatomy, wide neck, mass effect, partial thrombosis, and the presence of critical perforating vessels from the aneurysm wall.

Posterior Cerebral Artery Reconstruction by In-Situ Bypass with Superior Cerebellar Artery via Occipital Transtentorial Approach

BACKGROUND

Posterior cerebral artery (PCA) aneurysms are relatively rare, and neck clipping is often difficult due to their fusiform shape. We report a case of a thrombosed aneurysm of the distal PCA for which curative trapping and parent artery reconstruction by in situ bypass were performed through an occipital transtentorial approach (OTA).

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 67-year-old woman had been suffering from numbness in the right face and limbs for 4 months. Radiologic imaging demonstrated a thrombosed aneurysm on a distal portion of the left PCA. Curative trapping of the aneurysm and in-situ bypass between the distal PCA and superior cerebellar artery were performed through the OTA. Before surgery, we had evaluated access to the PCA and feasibility of the bypass in a cadaveric simulation. The PCA was well exposed in the posterior half of the ambient cistern, and the proximity of the distal PCA to the superior cerebellar artery through a tentorial incision was confirmed.

CONCLUSIONS

This OTA could represent a useful option for definitive treatment of distal PCA aneurysms.

Collection and Preservation of Terrestrial Arthropods

Arthropods comprise an amazingly diverse group of life forms that are extensively studied in almost every field of the biological sciences. Given that the vast majority of animals are arthropods (primarily insects, arachnids, and crustaceans), knowledge of the specific methods to collect and preserves these organisms for scientific purposes can be indispensable. The application of this research can play major roles in fundamental aspects of human society, including agriculture and medicine. With something on the order of 5-10 million or more arthropod species in existence, it is a challenge for any biologist to attempt to assess and document biodiversity, but many of us find ourselves in a position to either perform this task, or assist others in doing so. It is therefore of utmost importance that proper collection and preservation techniques are used for arthropods which are then made available to scientists for diverse fields of research. The actual practical details of collection and preservation are nearly as diverse as the organisms themselves, so we can only attempt to give basic guidelines here, discussing equipment, trapping techniques, preservation methods, and documentation methods necessary for scientists inexperienced in arthropod collecting to preserve research-quality specimens.

Endovascular Trapping of Large Cervical Carotid Pseudoaneurysm in Marfan Syndrome Presenting with Progressive Respiratory Distress

BACKGROUND

Isolated cervical pseudoaneurysms of the internal carotid artery (ICA) in patients with Marfan syndrome are extremely rare.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 73-year-old female with Marfan syndrome and history of multiple aortic aneurysms presented to an outside hospital with dysphagia, a mass in her neck, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. A computed tomography angiogram showed bilateral cervical ICA pseudoaneurysms, more significant on the right side. A laryngoscopy demonstrated edematous vocal cords and a significant mass effect on the right side. She suffered from significant respiratory distress and aspiration, for which she had to be intubated and transferred to our institution for definitive care. The patient was taken for angiography for carotid artery test occlusion and endovascular trapping with coils and onyx embolization of the carotid pseudoaneurysm. The hospital course was complicated with femoral closure device failure, leading to groin hematoma, pneumonia, and respiratory failure requiring tracheostomy and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. The patient was discharged to rehabilitation 34 days after admission. Stable exclusion of the large right pseudoaneurysm was observed at 3 months' follow-up with computed tomography angiography, as well as significant improvement in the last clinical follow-up obtained 6 months after the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Pseudoaneurysms of the cervical ICA associated with Marfan syndrome are rare. Carotid test occlusion and endovascular permanent embolization are possible in a patient with life-threatening symptoms. Cautious use of vascular closure devices, especially collagen plug-based ones, are required in such patients, given their abnormal extracellular matrix structure.

Estimating disease survey intensity and wildlife population size from the density of survey devices: Leg-hold traps and the brushtail possum

Wildlife disease surveillance requires accurate information on the proportion of managed populations sampled or their population density, parameters that are typically expensive to measure. However, these parameters can be estimated using spatially explicit modelling of capture probabilities, based on the distribution and deployment times of capture devices, given accurate information on the relationships between these variables. This approach is used in New Zealand's surveillance programme aimed at confirming areas free of bovine tuberculosis (bTB¹) in brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula). However, there is uncertainty about the accuracy of the underpinning parameters characterizing possum trappability (g), given the distance between where a trap is placed and the possum home range centre. Sampling intensity (SI: the percentage of the population sampled during a population survey) and sigma (σ; 95% home range radius/2.45) were measured, using leg-hold traps deployed under a set protocol to standardize survey effort, at four sites containing previously radio- and GPS-collared individuals. Those data were used to derive an estimate of the nightly probability of capture of possums in a trap set at their home range centre (g₀). Those estimates were compared to the standard assumptions currently used as defaults in the day-to-day approach used by bTB managers. Home-range size (and therefore σ) varied widely between sites (range 3.6-49.4 ha), probably largely in response to differences in possum density. Field measured SI also varied widely between sites, and was closely positively correlated with home range size (R² = 0.967; P =  0.017); wide-ranging possums were more trappable than sedentary ones. We found that g₀ was inversely related to σ, but the magnitude of increases in g₀ with declining σ appeared to be insufficient to compensate for the fewer places at which each possum could be trapped when those home ranges were small. SI was, therefore, not constant across sites where a standard survey effort was applied. The assumed relationship between g₀ and σ in the current spatial model may, therefore, need reassessment. The management implication of these result is that the sampling effort required to attain a target sampling intensity is dependant on the target animal density, and for bTB management of possums in New Zealand, is under-estimated by the current default parameters in a model of freedom-from-disease for higher density possum populations.

Generic and reversible opto-trapping of biomolecules

Molecular traps can control activity and abundance of many biological factors. Here, we report the development of a generic opto-trap to reversibly bind and release biomolecules with high spatiotemporal control by illumination with non-invasive and cell-compatible red and far-red light. We use the Arapidopsis thaliana photoreceptor phytochrome B to regulate the release of diverse proteins from a variety of material scaffolds. Fusion of a short 100 amino acids "PIF-tag", derived from the phytochrome interacting factor 6, renders arbitrary molecules opto-trap-compatible. Reversible opto-trapping of target molecules enables novel possibilities for future developments in diagnostics, therapeutics, and basic research.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

The investigation of cellular signaling events or the development of complex therapeutics and integrative diagnostic devices requires the deliberate control of biomolecule abundance and activity. During recent years, the use of natural photoreceptors within cells leveraged the control of diverse cellular events, benefiting from the superior spatial and temporal control characteristics of light as compared to conventional chemical stimuli. Concurrently, biological switches entailing intrinsic compatibility toward biological environments increasingly found application in biohybrid materials. We employ the plant red/far-red photoreceptor phytochrome B, which reversibly interacts with its phytochrome interacting factors (PIFs), for developing a generic opto-trap. This platform allows the use of red and far-red light to spatiotemporally control binding and release of arbitrary PIF-fused biomolecules from various material scaffolds.

Complex Aneurysm: The Unpredictable Pathological Entity

BACKGROUND

Surgical treatment of complex aneurysms often requires the execution of a revascularization procedure. Even if avoiding the concomitant trapping of the aneurysm during the bypass procedure (waiting for the subsequent endovascular or spontaneous closure) permits one to verify the graft's patency and patient's adaptation to increased flow, the hemodynamic changes induced by the bypass may cause the aneurysmal rupture. Whether or not to perform the concomitant trapping of the aneurysm still remains a dilemma. Here we illustrate our management protocol through the critical analysis of some illustrative cases of our series.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 1990 and 2016, 48 of 157 patients affected by complex aneurysms underwent a revascularization procedure. In 19 cases (1990-1997) only a bypass procedure was performed. Spontaneous or endovascular closure was obtained within the first postoperative week once the graft patency had been verified (staged revascularization strategy). In the remaining 29 cases. The total amount of cases is 48. 19 cases staged revascularization strategy. 29 cases single stage revascularization strategy.

RESULTS

In the staged revascularization era, one patient died because of the rupture of the aneurysm before its closure.In the single-stage era no further cases of rebleeding were observed. Neurologic status of this group was unvaried or improved.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the unpredictable response of complex aneurysms to the hemodynamic changes induced by the revascularization, in our opinion it is always preferable to perform complete or at least incomplete trapping of the aneurysm during the bypass procedure.

On the recent developments of insulator-based dielectrophoresis: A review

Insulator-based dielectrophoresis (iDEP), also known as electrodeless DEP, has become a well-known dielectrophoretic technique, no longer viewed as a new methodology. Significant advances on iDEP have been reported during the last 15 years. This review article aims to summarize some of the most important findings on iDEP organized by the type of dielectrophoretic mode: streaming and trapping iDEP. The former is primarily used for particle sorting, while the latter has great capability for particle enrichment. The characteristics of a wide array of devices are discussed for each type of dielectrophoretic mode in order to present an overview of the distinct designs and applications developed with iDEP. A short section on Joule heating effects and electrothermal flow is also included to highlight some of the challenges in the utilization of iDEP systems. The significant progress on iDEP illustrates its potential for a large number of applications, ranging from bioanalysis to clinical and biomedical assessments. The present article discusses the work on iDEP by numerous research groups around the world, with the aim of proving the reader with an overview of the state-of-the-art in iDEP microfluidic systems.

Transport and trapping of nanosheets via hydrodynamic forces and curvature-induced capillary quadrupolar interactions

HYPOTHESIS

The manipulation of nanosheets on a fluid-fluid interface remains a significant challenge. At this interface, hydrodynamic forces can be used for long-range transport (>1× capillary length) but are difficult to utilize for accurate and repeatable positioning. While capillary multipole interactions have been used for particle trapping, how these interactions manifest on large but thin objects, i.e., nanosheets, remains an open question. Hence, we posit hydrodynamic forces in conjunction with capillary multipole interactions can be used for nanosheet transport and trapping.

EXPERIMENTS

We designed and characterized a fluidic device for transporting and trapping nanosheets on the water-air interface. Analytical models were compared against optical measurements of the nanosheet behavior to investigate capillary multipole interactions. Energy-based modeling and dimensional analysis were used to study trapping stability.

FINDINGS

Hydrodynamic forces and capillary interactions successfully transported and trapped nanosheets at a designated trapping location with a repeatability of 10% of the nanosheet's length and 12% of its width (length = 1500 µm, width = 1000 µm) and an accuracy of 20% of their length and width. Additionally, this is the first report that surface tension forces acting upon nanoscale-thick objects manifest as capillary quadrupolar interactions and can be used for precision manipulation of nanosheets.

Closed loop control of microscopic particles incorporating steady streaming and visual feedback

Automatic manipulation of microscopic particles is very important in biology, especially in new lab-on-chip systems for automatic testing and DNA manipulation. We suggest a particle manipulation system (PMS) based on vibrating piezoelectric beams creating steady streaming flow in a viscous liquid. The flow is nearly unidirectional and it is used to control the position and velocity of the particles in the workspace of the PMS. The particles position in the PMS are controlled by visual feedback. This study presents the manipulation method, the system's model describing its behavior and characterizes experimentally its performance. The PMS is capable moving a 2-200 μm particle in a workspace of 8x8 mm² with an absolute accuracy of 0.2 μm. The characteristic velocity in 500 cP Si oil, is 20 μm/s using an actuation voltage amplitude of 5 V and can reach 250 μm/s using 15 V respectively. We can also move a constellation of several particles in various sizes without changing the distance between them. The accuracy of the manipulation can be increased by enhancing the amplification of the microscope on the expanse of a smaller workspace field of view.

Trapping and resection of cortical MCA mycotic aneurysm in eloquent area

BACKGROUND

Mycotic aneurysms, although well recognized, are relatively rare intracranial vascular pathology. These aneurysms are typically located in distal cortical vessels. When these aneurysms are located in eloquent cerebral territories, they may become challenging to treat. Eloquent location may necessitate intraoperative angiographic evaluation to verify complete aneurysmal occlusion/obliteration and preservation of normal adjacent vasculture. Recently, ICG videoangiography has become a widely used intra-operative adjunct and is an important tool used to assess complete occlusion and vessel patency at the conclusion of clip reconstruction. In this report, we outline the comprehensive and concurrent utilization of both vascular imaging modalities to ensure safe and complete occlusion of a mycotic aneurysm.

METHODS

We describe our experience with a patient with left M4, Rolandic, enlarging mycotic aneurysm that was treated in a comprehensive fashion with microsurgery and intra-operative angiography (IA).

CONCLUSIONS

ICG videoangiography, in combination with concurrent intraoperative angiography in the setting of complex vascular lesions, may support intraoperative decision-making and provide demonstration of complete occlusion in an immediate fashion. A hybrid operative suite allows for high-quality imaging confirming complete resection.

Next-Generation Trapping of Protease Substrates by Label-Free Proteomics

AAA⁺ proteases (ATPases associated with various cellular activities) shape the cellular protein pool in response to environmental conditions. A prerequisite for understanding the underlying recognition and degradation principles is the identification of as many protease substrates as possible. Most previous studies made use of inactive protease variants to trap substrates, which were identified by 2D-gel based proteomics. Since this method is known for limitations in the identification of low-abundant proteins or proteins with many transmembrane domains, we established a trapping approach that overcomes these limitations. We used a proteolytically inactive FtsH variant (FtsH^trap) of Escherichia coli (E. coli) that is still able to bind and translocate substrates into the proteolytic chamber but no longer able to degrade proteins. Proteins associated with FtsH^trap or FtsH^wt (proteolytically active FtsH) were purified, concentrated by an 1D-short gel, and identified by LC-coupled mass spectrometry (LC-MS) followed by label-free quantification. The identification of four known FtsH substrates validated this approach and suggests that it is generally applicable to AAA⁺ proteases.

Light-Curing Volumetric Shrinkage in Dimethacrylate-Based Dental Composites by Nanoindentation and PAL Study

Light-curing volumetric shrinkage in dimethacrylate-based dental resin composites Dipol® is examined through comprehensive kinetics research employing nanoindentation measurements and nanoscale atomic-deficient study with lifetime spectroscopy of annihilating positrons. Photopolymerization kinetics determined through nanoindentation testing is shown to be described via single-exponential relaxation function with character time constants reaching respectively 15.0 and 18.7 s for nanohardness and elastic modulus. Atomic-deficient characteristics of composites are extracted from positron lifetime spectra parameterized employing unconstrained x3-term fitting. The tested photopolymerization kinetics can be adequately reflected in time-dependent changes observed in average positron lifetime (with 17.9 s time constant) and fractional free volume of positronium traps (with 18.6 s time constant). This correlation proves that fragmentation of free-volume positronium-trapping sites accompanied by partial positronium-to-positron traps conversion determines the light-curing volumetric shrinkage in the studied composites.

Field evaluation of a new light trap for phlebotomine sand flies

Light traps are one of the most common attractive method for the collection of nocturnal insects. Although light traps are generally referred to as "CDC light traps", different models, equipped with incandescent or UV lamps, have been developed. A new light trap, named Laika trap 3.0, equipped with LED lamps and featured with a light and handy design, has been recently proposed into the market. In this study we tested and compared the capture performances of this new trap with those of a classical light trap model under field conditions. From May to November 2013, a Laika trap and a classical light trap were placed biweekly in an area endemic for sand flies. A total of 256 sand fly specimens, belonging to 3 species (Sergentomyia minuta, Phlebotomus perniciosus, Phlebotomus neglectus) were collected during the study period. The Laika trap captured 126 phlebotomine sand flies: P. perniciosus (n=38); S. minuta (n=88), a similar number of specimens (130) and the same species were captured by classical light trap which collected also 3 specimens of P. neglectus. No significant differences in the capture efficiency at each day of trapping, neither in the number of species or in the sex of sand flies were observed. According to results of this study, the Laika trap may be a valid alternative to classical light trap models especially when handy design and low power consumption are key factors in field studies.

Habits and customs of crab catchers in southern Bahia, Brazil

BACKGROUND

Brazilian mangrove forests are widely distributed along the coast and exploited by groups of people with customs and habits as diverse as the biology of the mangrove ecosystems. This study identifies different methods of extracting crabs that inhabit the mangrove belts; some of these activities, such as catching individual crabs by hand, are aimed at maintaining natural stocks of this species in Mucuri (south Bahia), Brazil.

METHODS

In the studied community, illegal hunting activities that violate Brazilian legislation limiting the use of tangle-netting in mangrove ecosystem were observed.

RESULTS

According to our observations, fishermen, to catch individual crabs, use the tangle-netting technique seeking to increase income and are from families that have no tradition of extraction.

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis leads us to conclude that catchers from economically marginalised social groups enter mangroves for purposes of survival rather than for purposes of subsistence, because the catching by tangle-netting is a predatory technique. Tangle-netting  technique increase caught but also increases their mortality rate. We emphasise that traditional catching methods are unique to Brazil and that manual capturing of crab should be preserved through public policies aimed at maintaining the crab population.

Biomechanically driven unsteady non-uniform flow of Copper water and Silver water nanofluids through finite length channel

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

This paper aims to investigate the unsteady flow of two types of nanofluids i.e Copper water nanofluids and Silver water nanofluids) through finite length non-uniform channel driven by peristaltic sinusoidal wave propagations.

METHODS

The governing equations are reduced in linear form using dimensional analysis and considering the low Reynolds number and large wavelength approximations. The time dependent temperature field, axial velocity, transverse velocity and pressure difference are obtained analytically in closed form solution. Trapping phenomenon is also discussed with the help of contour plots of stream function. A comparative study of pure water (Newtonian fluid), Copper water nanofluids and Silver water nanofluids under the influence of relevant physical parameters is made in graphical form and also discussed. The effects of absorption parameter and Grashof number on velocity profiles, temperature profiles and pressure distribution along the length of channel are examined.

RESULTS CONCLUSIONS

The computational results reveal that the velocity profile is maximum for Silver water nanofluids however, it is least for Copper water nanofluids. It is also concluded the temperature profile is more for pure water in comparison to Silver water and Copper water nanofluids. This model is applicable to design, micro-peristaltic pumps which help in Nanoparticle-based targeted drug delivery and to transport the sensitive or corrosive fluids, sanitary fluids, slurries and noxious fluids in nuclear industry.

Female Sex Pheromone of the Cone Moth, Dioryctria mendacella: Investigation of Synergism between Type I and Type II Pheromone Components

Polyunsaturated hydrocarbons (Type II pheromone components) have been reported to be synergists for unsaturated acetates, alcohols or aldehydes (Type I components) in the sex pheromones of several species of Lepidoptera. However, there is some debate over whether the active components are the hydrocarbons themselves or more volatile degradation products. Extracts of pheromone glands of adult females of the cone moth, Dioryctria mendacella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), contain (Z,E)-9,11-tetradecadienyl acetate (ZE9,11-14:Ac) and at least ten times as much (Z,Z,Z,Z,Z)-3,6,9,12,15-pentacosapentaene (ZZZZZ3,6,9,12,15-25:H). The former elicits a strong electroantennogram response from males while no response could be recorded to the latter. In field trapping tests, both compounds were individually unattractive to male D. mendacella moths, but blends of the two compounds containing at least a 10:1 ratio of ZZZZZ3,6,9,12,15-25:H : ZE9,11-14:Ac were highly attractive. The relatively involatile hydrocarbon was shown to be released from the dispensers used and no significant degradation could be detected. Furthermore, blends of ZE9,11-14:Ac and analogs of ZZZZZ3,6,9,12,15-25:H with fewer carbons and/or double bonds that might be expected to produce similar degradation products to ZZZZZ3,6,9,12,15-25:H were unattractive. This indicated a specific response to the hydrocarbon itself, further substantiated by the observation that related hydrocarbons did not interfere with the activity of ZZZZZ3,6,9,12,15-25:H. Thus a three-step conversion of fish oil was used to produce a blend of unsaturated hydrocarbons containing ZZZZZ3,6,9,12,15-25:H as the major component, albeit only 30% of the total, and a blend of this material with ZE9,11-14:Ac was as attractive to male D. mendacella moths as blends with an equivalent amount of the purified material. This mixture of unsaturated hydrocarbons is much cheaper to produce than the pure pentaene, and may be useful in lures for other species using these compounds. Dioryctria mendacella is a major constraint to production of edible pine kernels throughout the Mediterranean region. Pheromone traps will provide a means to improve monitoring of seasonal flight patterns and changes in population abundance of this pest.

3D shaping of electron beams using amplitude masks

Shaping the electron wavefunction in three dimensions may prove to be an indispensable tool for research involving atomic-sized particle trapping, manipulation, and synthesis. We utilize computer-generated holograms to sculpt electron wavefunctions in a standard transmission electron microscope in 3D, and demonstrate the formation of electron beams exhibiting high intensity along specific trajectories as well as shaping the beam into a 3D lattice of hot-spots. The concepts presented here are similar to those used in light optics for trapping and tweezing of particles, but at atomic scale resolutions.

Assaying the Effects of Splice Site Variants by Exon Trapping in a Mammalian Cell Line

There are several in silico programs that endeavor to predict the functional impact of an individual's sequence variation at splice donor/acceptor sites, but experimental confirmation is problematic without a source of RNA from the individual that carries the variant. With the aid of an exon trapping vector, such as pSPL3, an investigator can test whether a splice site sequence change leads to altered RNA splicing, through expression of reference and variant mini-genes in mammalian cells and analysis of the resultant RNA products.

Water-Vapor Sorption Processes in Nanoporous MgO-Al2O3 Ceramics: the PAL Spectroscopy Study

The water-vapor sorption processes in nanoporous MgO-Al2O3 ceramics are studied with positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopy employing positron trapping and positronium (Ps)-decaying modes. It is demonstrated that the longest-lived components in the four-term reconstructed PAL spectra with characteristic lifetimes near 2 and 60-70 ns can be, respectively, attributed to ortho-positronium (o-Ps) traps in nanopores with 0.3- and 1.5-1.8-nm radii. The first o-Ps decaying process includes "pick-off" annihilation in the "bubbles" of liquid water, while the second is based on o-Ps interaction with physisorbed water molecules at the walls of the pores. In addition, the water vapor modifies structural defects located at the grain boundaries in a vicinity of pores, this process being accompanied by void fragmentation during water adsorption and agglomeration during water desorption after drying.

Free Volume Structure of Acrylic-Type Dental Nanocomposites Tested with Annihilating Positrons

Positron annihilation spectroscopy in lifetime measuring mode exploring conventional fast-fast coincidence ORTEC system is employed to characterize free volume structure of commercially available acrylic-type dental restorative composite Charisma® (Heraeus Kulzer GmbH, Germany). The measured lifetime spectra for uncured and light-cured composites are reconstructed from unconstrained x3-term fitting and semi-empirical model exploring x3-x2-coupling decomposition algorithm. The governing channel of positron annihilation in the composites studied is ascribed to mixed positron-Ps trapping, where Ps decaying in the third component is caused entirely by input from free-volume holes in polymer matrix, while the second component is defined by free positron trapping in interfacial free-volume holes between filler nanoparticles and surrounded polymer matrix. Microstructure scenario of the photopolymerization shrinkage includes cross-linking of structural chains in polymer matrix followed by conversion of bound positron-electron (positronium) traps in positron-trapping interfacial free-volume voids in a vicinity of agglomerated filler nanoparticles.