Sleep assessment using EEG-based wearables - A systematic review

Polysomnography (PSG) is the reference standard of sleep measurement, but is burdensome for the participant and labor intensive. Affordable electroencephalography (EEG)-based wearables are easy to use and are gaining popularity, yet selecting the most suitable device is a challenge for clinicians and researchers. In this systematic review, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of available EEG-based wearables to measure human sleep. For each wearable, an overview will be provided regarding validated population and reported measurement properties. A systematic search was conducted in the databases OVID MEDLINE, Embase.com and CINAHL. A machine learning algorithm (ASReview) was utilized to screen titles and abstracts for eligibility. In total, 60 papers were selected, covering 34 unique EEG-based wearables. Feasibility studies indicated good tolerance, high compliance, and success rates. The 42 included validation studies were conducted across diverse populations and showed consistently high accuracy in sleep staging detection. Therefore, the recent advancements in EEG-based wearables show great promise as alternative for PSG and for at-home sleep monitoring. Users should consider factors like user-friendliness, comfort, and costs, as these devices vary in features and pricing, impacting their suitability for individual needs.

Speech and language in DDX3X-neurodevelopmental disorder: A call for early augmentative and alternative communication intervention

Pathogenic variants in DDX3X are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. Communication impairments are commonly reported, yet specific speech and language diagnoses have not been delineated, preventing prognostic counseling and targeted therapies. Here, we characterized speech and language in 38 female individuals, aged 1.69-24.34 years, with pathogenic and likely pathogenic DDX3X variants (missense, n = 13; nonsense, n = 12; frameshift, n = 7; splice site, n = 3; synonymous, n = 2; deletion, n = 1). Standardized speech, language, motor, social, and adaptive behavior assessments were administered. All participants had gross motor deficits in infancy (34/34), and fine motor deficits were common throughout childhood (94%; 32/34). Intellectual disability was reported in 86% (24/28) of participants over 4 years of age. Expressive, receptive, and social communication skills were, on average, severely impaired. However, receptive language was significantly stronger than expressive language ability. Over half of the assessed participants were minimally verbal (66%; 22/33; range = 2 years 2 months-24 years 4 months; mean = 8 years; SD = 6 years) and augmented speech with sign language, gestures, or digital devices. A quarter of the cohort had childhood apraxia of speech (25%; 9/36). Despite speech and language impairments, social motivation was a relevant strength. Many participants used augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), underscoring the need for early, tailored, and comprehensive AAC intervention.

Lessons from two series by physicians and caregivers' self-reported data in DDX3X-related disorders

INTRODUCTION AND METHODS

We report two series of individuals with DDX3X variations, one (48 individuals) from physicians and one (44 individuals) from caregivers.

RESULTS

These two series include several symptoms in common, with fairly similar distribution, which suggests that caregivers' data are close to physicians' data. For example, both series identified early childhood symptoms that were not previously described: feeding difficulties, mean walking age, and age at first words.

DISCUSSION

Each of the two datasets provides complementary knowledge. We confirmed that symptoms are similar to those in the literature and provides more details on feeding difficulties. Caregivers considered that the symptom attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder were most worrisome. Both series also reported sleep disturbance. Recently, anxiety has been reported in individuals with DDX3X variants. We strongly suggest that attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, and sleep disorders need to be treated.

Ocular manifestations in Koolen-de Vries syndrome: an international study

OBJECTIVES

Koolen-de Vries Syndrome (KdVS) is a rare multisystem neurodevelopmental disorder. Ocular manifestations, including strabismus, ptosis, and hyperopia, have been reported in KdVS patients, but detailed clinical data are limited. This study aims to investigate the already known ocular malformations and their frequency while uncovering novel ocular associations.

METHODS

This was an international cross-sectional study. An anonymous questionnaire was sent to 237 KdVS patients registered in the GenIDA database. The questionnaire inquired about demographic data, ocular symptoms, findings reported by ophthalmologists, and ophthalmologic surgical interventions. The main outcome measures included ocular findings and surgical interventions.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven respondents worldwide completed the questionnaire, most (n = 53; 79%) under 18 years of age. Ophthalmologic abnormalities, noted in 79% of patients, included refractive errors (n = 35; 52.2%), strabismus (n = 23; 34.3%), amblyopia (n = 13; 19.5%), and eyelid ptosis (n = 9; 13.4%). Lacrimal disorders were present (n = 6; 9.0%), as were retinal findings (n = 7; 10.4%), including retinal hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation (n = 4; 7.5%), Sjögren's pigment epithelial reticular dystrophy (n = 1; 1.5%), and macular chorioretinal coloboma (n = 1; 1.5%). Other manifestations included ocular surface disorders (n = 5; 7.5%), cataracts (n = 3; 4.5%), Brown syndrome (n = 1; 1.5%), glaucoma (n = 1; 1.5%), cerebral visual impairment (n = 1; 1.5%), and optic atrophy (n = 1; 1.5%). Fourteen patients (20.8%) had undergone surgical interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

KdVS is associated with various ophthalmic findings, such as amblyopia, refractive errors, strabismus, and eyelid ptosis. We describe, for the first time, a high rate of nasolacrimal disorders and retinal abnormalities consisting mainly of pigmentary findings, including a rare case of Sjögren's pigment epithelial reticular dystrophy. A comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation is therefore recommended for all KdVS patients at initial diagnosis or at 4-6 months of age for diagnosed newborns.

A burning question from the first international BPAN symposium: is restoration of autophagy a promising therapeutic strategy for BPAN?

Beta-propeller protein-associated neurodegeneration (BPAN) is a rare neurodegenerative disease associated with severe cognitive and motor deficits. BPAN pathophysiology and phenotypic spectrum are still emerging due to the fact that mutations in the WDR45 (WD repeat domain 45) gene, a regulator of macroautophagy/autophagy, were only identified a decade ago. In the first international symposium dedicated to BPAN, which was held in Lyon, France, a panel of international speakers, including several researchers from the autophagy community, presented their work on human patients, cellular and animal models, carrying WDR45 mutations and their homologs. Autophagy researchers found an opportunity to explore the defective function of autophagy mechanisms associated with WDR45 mutations, which underlie neuronal dysfunction and early death. Importantly, BPAN is one of the few human monogenic neurological diseases targeting a regulator of autophagy, which raises the possibility that it is a relevant model to directly assess the roles of autophagy in neurodegeneration and to develop autophagy restorative therapeutic strategies for more common disorders.Abbreviations: ATG: autophagy related; BPAN: beta-propeller protein-associated neurodegeneration; ER: endoplasmic reticulum; KO: knockout; NBIA: neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation; PtdIns3P: phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate; ULK1: unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 1; WDR45: WD repeat domain 45; WIPI: WD repeat domain, phosphoinositide interacting.

Clinical and radiological assessment of scoliosis in Koolen-de Vries syndrome

The Koolen-de Vries syndrome (KdVS) is a multisystem disorder characterized by developmental delay, intellectual disability, characteristic facial features, epilepsy, cardiovascular and urogenital malformations, and various musculoskeletal disorders. Scoliosis is a common feature. The aim of this study is to fill the gap in the current knowledge about scoliosis in individuals with KdVS and to provide recommendations for management and follow-up. In total, 54 individuals with KdVS were included in the study, with a mean age of 13.6 years (range 1.9-38.8 years). Spine radiographs, MR scans, and corresponding radiology reports were analyzed retrospectively for scoliosis and additional anomalies. The presence of scoliosis-related clinical conditions was assessed in participants' medical records and by use of a parent survey. Scoliosis was present in 56% of the participants (30/54) with a mean age of onset of 10.6 years and curve progression during the growth spurt. Prevalence at age 6, 10, and 18 years was, respectively, 9%, 41%, and 65%. Most participants were diagnosed with a single curve (13/24, 54%), of which five participants had a long C-curve type scoliosis. No significant risk factors for development of scoliosis could be identified. Severity was mostly classified as mild, although 29% (7/24) of the curves were larger than 30° at last follow-up. Bracing therapy was received in 13% (7/54), and surgical spinal fusion was warranted in 6% (3/54). Remarkably, participants with scoliosis received less often physical therapy compared to participants without scoliosis (P = 0.002). Scoliosis in individuals with KdVS should be closely monitored and radiologic screening for scoliosis and vertebrae abnormalities is recommended at diagnosis of KdVS, and the age of 10 and 18 years.

GenIDA: an international participatory database to gain knowledge on health issues related to genetic forms of neurodevelopmental disorders

Intellectual disability with or without manifestations of autism and/or epilepsy affects 1-2% of the population, and it is estimated that more than 30-50% of these cases have a single genetic cause. More than 1000 genes and recurrent chromosomal abnormalities are involved in these genetic forms of neurodevelopmental disorders, which often remain insufficiently described in terms of clinical spectrum, associated medical problems, etc., due to their rarity and the often-limited number of patients' phenotypes reported. GenIDA is an international online participatory database that aims to better characterise the clinical manifestations and natural histories of these rare diseases. Clinical information is reported by parents of affected individuals using a structured questionnaire exploring physical parameters, cognitive and behavioural aspects, the presence or absence of neurological disorders or problems affecting major physiological functions, as well as autonomy and quality of life. This strengthens the implication in research of the concerned families. GenIDA aims to construct international cohorts of significant size of individuals affected by a given condition. As of July 2022, GenIDA counts some 1545 documented patient records from over 60 nationalities and collaborates with clinicians and researchers around the world who have access to the anonymized data collected to generate new, medically meaningful information to improve patient care. We present the GenIDA database here, together with an overview of the possibilities it offers to affected individuals, their families, and professionals in charge of the management of genetic forms of neurodevelopmental disorders. Finally, case studies of cohorts will illustrate the usefulness of GenIDA.

How to improve inpatient sleep in regular care wards: a systematic review and meta-analysis of sleep disturbers and non-pharmacological interventions

OBJECTIVE

To determine factors affecting inpatient sleep and assess the range and effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions aimed at improving the sleep of patients admitted to regular care wards.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted in five scientific databases, including articles published from inception to June 23rd, 2023. Eligible studies evaluated sleep disturbing factors or the effect of non-pharmacological intervention(s). Meta-analyses on intervention studies were conducted using a random effects model. Certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach.

RESULTS

Out of 591 potentially eligible studies, 229 were included in this review. Sleep disturbers were identified in 153 studies, and 102 studies were eligible for meta-analysis. Common factors contributing to poor sleep included noise, light, care-related interruptions, pain, and anxiety. The meta-analyses revealed large pooled effects in favor of sleep for the use of eye masks and earplugs, headphones and white noise, aromatherapy, massage, muscle relaxation and breathing exercises, and advanced nursing strategies. However, the certainty of the evidence ranged from moderate to very low.

CONCLUSION

Inpatient sleep is often disturbed by patient-related, care-related, and environmental factors. While there are promising non-pharmacological interventions, the overall quality of studies, heterogeneity in study populations, and differences in outcome measures present challenges for drawing definitive conclusions.

Individual lifetime benefit from low-dose colchicine in chronic coronary artery disease patients

Background

Low-dose colchicine reduces the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with chronic coronary artery disease (CAD), but the absolute benefit may vary between patients. Individual benefit from preventive therapies can be estimated using the guideline-recommended SMART-REACH model.

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the range of individual absolute 10-year and lifetime benefit from low-dose colchicine according to patient risk profile.

Methods

The SMART-REACH model was combined with the relative treatment effect of low-dose colchicine, and applied to all participants from the LoDoCo2 trial (n=5,522), and patients with chronic CAD from the UCC-SMART cohort (n=5,308). Individual treatment benefit was expressed as (i) 10-year absolute risk reductions (ARRs) for myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, or cardiovascular death (MACE), and (ii) life-years gained free of MACE. Predictions were also performed for MACE plus ischemia-driven coronary revascularization (MACE+), through development of a new competing risk-adjusted lifetime prediction model in data from the REACH registry (n=14,522). Low-dose colchicine was compared to alternative intensive prevention goals, i.e. low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c) reduction to <1.4 mmol/L, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) reduction to <130 mmHg.

Results

Median individual 10-year ARR for MACE from low-dose colchicine therapy was 4.6% (interquartile range [IQR] 3.6–6.0%), and median gain in life expectancy free of MACE was 2.0 (IQR 1.6–2.5) years. Median 10-year ARR for MACE+ was 8.6% (IQR 7.6–9.8%), and median gain in MACE+-free life expectancy was 3.4 (IQR 2.6–4.2) years. For intensified LDL-c and SBP reduction respectively, median 10-year ARRs were 3.0% (IQR 1.5–5.1%) and 1.7% (IQR 0.0–5.7%) for MACE, and 5.2% (IQR 2.5–8.7%) and 2.9% (IQR 0.0–9.5%) for MACE+. Median life-years gained from LDL-c and SBP reduction were 1.2 (IQR 0.6–2.1) and 0.7 (IQR 0.0–2.3) years free of MACE, and 1.8 (IQR 0.8–3.3) and 0.9 (IQR 0.0–3.4) years free of MACE+.

Conclusion

The individual absolute benefit from low-dose colchicine varies between patients. In an era where lipid- and blood pressure-lowering therapies are already routinely used, the benefits of low-dose colchicine are expected to be of at least similar magnitude to those of intensified LDL-c and SBP reduction in patients with chronic CAD.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

The impact of lockdown on young people with genetic neurodevelopmental disabilities: a study with the international participatory database GenIDA

BACKGROUND

Previous publications suggested that lockdown is likely to impact daily living issues of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The authors notably suspected an intensification of behavioural, eating and sleep problems.

METHODS

To test these hypotheses, we conducted an international online survey about the impact of COVID-19-associated first lockdown on people with genetic neurodevelopmental disorders. This survey was carried out using GenIDA, an international participatory database collecting medical information on genetic neurodevelopmental disorders. Patients' relatives took part in this online survey from 30/04/2020 to 09/06/2020. This survey adapted from GenIDA standard questionnaire requested information on diagnosis, lifestyle and was based on yes/no answers to questions regarding behaviour, diet, and sleep, in the 6-months period before lockdown and during lockdown. We also asked relatives to evaluate the intensity of these problems by severity level. Finally, relatives could freely comment in open fields on the medical and/or quality of life problems they had encountered during lockdown.

RESULTS

In total 199 participants-144 children and 45 adults-with neurodevelopmental disorders (intellectual disability (79.4%) and/or autism spectrum disorder (21.6%)) of various genetic origins, with near-equal male/female (96/103) contribution and originating mainly from Europe and Northern America, were included. The average lockdown duration at time of the survey was 57 days. We did not find differences in the frequency of behavioural, eating and sleep problems before and during lockdown. Moreover, there was no apparent difference in the intensity of eating and sleep disorders between both periods. However, for persons with behavioural problems at both periods, relatives reported an increase in aggressivity, self-aggressivity, depressiveness, stereotypies, and restricted interests during lockdown, all of which might be interpreted as consequences of a lack of stimulation or a reaction to unexpected changes in daily habits.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results support previous studies that suggest that the negative impact of lockdown does not depend on the intellectual disability per se but on the associated comorbidities such as behavioural disorders. This study addresses the need for prevention of behavioural disturbance in the vulnerable population with genetic neurodevelopmental disabilities.

Neurocognitive and neurobehavioural characterization of two frequent forms of neurodevelopmental disorders: the DYRK1A and the Wiedemann-Steiner syndromes

DYRK1A and Wiedemann-Steiner syndromes (WSS) are two genetic conditions associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Although their clinical phenotype has been described, their behavioural phenotype has not systematically been studied using standardized assessment tools. To characterize the latter, we conducted a retrospective study, collecting data on developmental history, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), adaptive functioning, behavioural assessments, and sensory processing of individuals with these syndromes (n=14;21). In addition, we analysed information collected from families (n=20;20) using the GenIDA database, an international patient-driven data collection aiming to better characterize natural history of genetic forms of NDDs. In the retrospective study, individuals with DYRK1A syndrome showed lower adaptive behaviour scores compared to those with WSS, whose scores showed greater heterogeneity. An ASD diagnosis was established for 57% (8/14) of individuals with DYRK1A syndrome and 24% (5/21) of those with WSS. Language and communication were severely impaired in individuals with DYRK1A syndrome, which was also evident from GenIDA data, whereas in WSS patients, exploration of behavioural phenotypes revealed the importance of anxiety symptomatology and ADHD signs, also flagged in GenIDA. This study, describing the behavioural and sensorial profiles of individuals with WSS and DYRK1A syndrome, highlighted some specificities important to be considered for patients' management.

Anti-Aging Potential of a Rosa centifolia Stem Extract with Focus on Phytochemical Composition by Bioguided Fractionation

Agricultural practices generate huge amounts of by-products, often simply discarded as waste that must be processed at some cost. The natural by-products revalorisation as raw material to produce high-added value ingredients for various industrial sectors may pave the way towards more sustainable industrial practices, via an optimised utilisation of natural resources. Integrating the circular economy precepts to production systems is considered to be a more and more promising management solution to significantly reduce the environmental impact of economic activities. This article discusses the valorisation of Rosa centifolia stem to produce a natural extract with cosmetic anti-aging potential. To do so, the cosmetic potential of 30 extracts obtained by maceration of agricultural by-products in a hydroalcoholic solvent was evaluated: their activities, as well as their inhibitory activities of specific enzymes were assessed in vitro to identify those that could be used effectively as anti-ageing actives while meeting the consumer's expectations in terms of sustainability, naturality, transparency and traceability.^[1] A hydroalcoholic extract of R. centifolia stem revealed itself particularly promising due to its valuable anti-hyaluronidase and antioxidant activities, and its interesting anti-elastase and anti-inflammatory potential. The bio-guided fractionation of this extract allows the characterisation of three major compounds, e. g., isoquercitrin, quercitrin and euscaphic acid, never identified in R. centifolia previously.

A perspective on the role of uncertainty in sustainability science and engineering

The Trans-Atlantic Research and Development Interchange on Sustainability Workshop (TARDIS) is a meeting on scientific topics related to sustainability. The 2019 workshop theme was "On the Role of Uncertainty in Managing the Earth for Global Sustainability." This paper presents the perspectives on this topic derived from talks and discussions at the 2019 TARDIS workshop. There are four kinds of uncertainties encountered in sustainability ranging from clear enough futures to true surprises. The current state-of-the-art in assessing and mitigating these uncertainties is discussed.

Extraction of Natural Fragrance Ingredients: History Overview and Future Trends

For centuries, perfumes consisted in a combination of natural ingredients, mainly of plant origin. From the 19th century on, the advent of organic synthesis enabled the deployment of multiple synthetic olfactory notes, enriching significantly the perfumers' portfolio. Chemistry is ever since the foundation of modern perfumery. However, sustainable-minded consumers, massively rejecting synthetics for safety and ecological issues, engaged a global return to nature in numerous sectors, and the fragrance industry is not outdone. Sustainable extraction of natural products, making use of innovative technologies, process intensification and agro-based solvents, constitutes the answer to develop eco-conceived fragrant ingredients covering every olfactory family without endangering biodiversity any further. The objective of this review is to draw a clear picture of where those technological advances are today and to assess the ones that may be effectively transposed at the industrial scale tomorrow.

UHPLC-HRMS/MS Based Profiling of Algerian Lichens and Their Antimicrobial Activities

Lichens are complex symbiotic organisms able to produce a vast array of compounds. The Algerian lichen diversity has only prompted little interest even given the 1085 species listed. Herein, the chemodiversity of four Algerian lichens including Cladonia rangiformis, Ramalina farinaceae, R. fastigiata, and Roccella phycopsis was investigated. A dereplication strategy, using ultra high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS), was carried out for a comprehensive characterization of their substances including phenolics, depsides, depsidones, depsones, dibenzofurans, and aliphatic acids. Some known compounds were identified for the first time in some species. Additionally, the lichenic extracts were evaluated for their antifungal and antimicrobial activities on human pathogenic strains (Candida albicans, C. glabrata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli). Cyclohexane extracts were found particularly active against human pathogenic fungi with MIC₈₀ values ranging from 8 to 62.5 μg/mL, without cytotoxicity. This study highlights the therapeutic and prophylactic potential of lichenic extracts as antibacterial and antifungal agents.

High ligation of the saphenofemoral junction is necessary!

Neovascularisation can compromise the success of high ligation and resection of the greater saphenous vein. Studies using duplexultrasound to classify recurrent groin veins have described rates of neovascularisation as high as 60% and raised the question whether high ligation is actually able to prevent groin recurrences. In the present study, recurrent groin veins were excised and examined histologically in order to prove whether neovascularisation is the main cause for sapheno-femoral recurrences. Patients, methods: 419 patients accounting for 458 legs with clinically symptomatic groin recurrences were included in a country-wide multicenter study. The recurrent groin veins were excised in a standardized fashion and subsequently divided into the different types of recurrence based on histopathological criteria. Results: 427 specimen (93%) were available for histopathological examination. In 69 cases (16.2%) a neovascularisation was found to be the cause of recurrence. 311 specimen (72.8%) contained a long residual stump of the greater saphenous vein, out of which 32 (7.5%) showed additional neovascularisation at the site of the ligation. In 29 cases (6.8%) a venous side branch was found to be the recurrent groin vein. 11 specimen (2.6%) did not contain any evidence of venous material and in another 7 cases (1.6%) it was not possible to clearly identify the cause of recurrence during the histo pathological workup. Conclusion: The high rates of neovascularisation described in several duplex ultrasound studies could not be confirmed in our investigation. Recurrences seem to be mainly caused by a technically incorrect initial operation which leaves a long residual stump of the saphenous vein in place. Following a technically correct high ligation, clinically relevant recurrences appear to be rare. This finding underlines the necessity of a high ligation of the saphenous vein according to current guidelines.

Der lang belassene Saphenastumpf

Ziel: Nach endovenöser Hitzeablation der V. saphena magna verbleibt im Bereich der Krosse nahezu regelhaft bis zu 5 cm langer Venenstumpf unverschlossen. Aufgrund fehlender Langzeiterfahrungen ist unklar, ob sich aus dem zurückgelassenen Stumpf im Spätverlauf ein Leistenrezidiv entwickelt. Um Anhaltspunkte für den potenziellen Zeitpunkt der Rezidiventwicklung zu gewinnen, sollte bei Pat. mit histologisch gesichertem Saphenastumpfrezidiv geklärt werden, wie lange es dauerte, bis nach dem Ersteingriff Rezidiv klinisch apperent wird. Methoden: Im Rahmen einer an sieben Zentren durchgeführten Multizenterstudie wurden operativ exstirpierte Leistenrezidive histologisch klassifiziert. Die Pat. mit eindeutigem Saphenastumpfrezidiv wurden anhand eines standardisierten Fragebogens nach den ersten Rezidivzeichen befragt. Anhand der Angaben wurde das beschwerdefreie Intervall ermittelt, das Zeitraum zwischen dem Ersteingriff und dem ersten Auftreten von Rezidivzeichen kennzeichnet. Ergebnisse: Bei 251 Pat. wurde an 278 Extremitäten ein lang belassener Saphenastumpf als Ursache des Leistenrezidivs ermittelt. den meisten Pat. bestand nach dem Ersteingriff ein beschwerdefreies Intervall, das im Durchschnitt 7,4 ± 5,70 Jahre betrug. Rezidivvarizen kündigten nach durchschnittlich 6,3 ± 5,68 Jahre und Stauungsbeschwerden nach durchschnittlich 8,5 ± 5,71 Jahre das Rezidiv an. Schlussfolgerungen: Überträgt man die Erfahrungen aus operativen Therapie auf die unverschlossenen Krossestümpfe nach endovenöser Therapie, so ist frühestens nach 7–8 Jahren mit den klinischen Zeichen eines Leistenrezidivs zu rechnen. Die gegenwärtig vorhandenen Nachbeobachtungszeiten reichen nicht aus, um den Langzeitverlauf nach endovenöser Therapie beurteilen zu können.

Vetiver Essential Oil in Cosmetics: What Is New?

Background: Vetiver is a key ingredient for the perfume industry nowadays. However, with the constant and rapid changes of personal tastes, this appeal could vanish and this sector could decline quite quickly. New dissemination paths need to be found to tap this valuable resource. Methods: In this way, its potential use in cosmetics either as an active ingredient per se (with cosmeceutical significance or presenting antimicrobial activity) has hence been explored in vitro. Results: In this contribution, we demonstrated that vetiver essential oil displays no particularly significant and innovative cosmetic potential value in formulations apart from its scent already largely exploited. However, evaluated against twenty bacterial strains and two Candida species using the in vitro microbroth dilution method, vetiver oil demonstrated notably some outstanding activities against Gram-positive strains and against one Candida glabrata strain. Conclusions: Based on these findings, vetiver essential oil appears to be an appropriate aspirant for the development of an antimicrobial agent for medicinal purposes and for the development of a cosmetic ingredient used for its scent and displaying antimicrobial activity as an added value.

Dynamics of African horse sickness virus nucleic acid and antibody in horses following immunization with a commercial polyvalent live attenuated vaccine

African horse sickness (AHS) is a fatal disease of equids relevant to the global equine industry. Detection of AHS virus (AHSV) during outbreaks has become more rapid and efficient with the advent of group specific reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (GS RT-qPCR) assays to detect AHSV nucleic acid. Use of GS RT-qPCR together with recently described type specific (TS RT-qPCR) assays cannot only expedite diagnosis of AHS but also facilitate further evaluation of the dynamics of AHSV infection in the equine host. A potential limitation to the application of these assays is that they detect viral nucleic acid originating from any AHS live attenuated vaccine (LAV), which is the vaccine type routinely administered to horses in South Africa. The aim of this study was to contrast the dynamics and duration of the RNAaemia to the serological responses of horses following immunization with a commercial polyvalent AHSV-LAV using GS and TS RT-qPCR assays and serum neutralisation tests. The results of the study showed extended RNAemia in vaccinated horses, and that more horses tested positive on GS RT-qPCR with lower Cq values after receiving the AHSV-LAV containing types 1, 3 and 4 prior to the vaccine containing types 2, 6, 7 and 8, rather than when the vaccine combinations were reversed. Furthermore, lower Cq values were obtained when vaccines were administered 4weeks apart as compared with a longer interval or 12weeks apart. These findings are of particular relevance in regions where AHSV-LAVs are used as the use of these vaccines may complicate the accurate interpretation of diagnostic testing results.

Identification, Geochemical Characterisation and Significance of Bitumen among the Grave Goods of the 7th Century Mound 1 Ship-Burial at Sutton Hoo (Suffolk, UK)

The 7th century ship-burial at Sutton Hoo is famous for the spectacular treasure discovered when it was first excavated in 1939. The finds include gold and garnet jewellery, silverware, coins and ceremonial armour of broad geographical provenance which make a vital contribution to understanding the political landscape of early medieval Northern Europe. Fragments of black organic material found scattered within the burial were originally identified as 'Stockholm Tar' and linked to waterproofing and maintenance of the ship. Here we present new scientific analyses undertaken to re-evaluate the nature and origin of these materials, leading to the identification of a previously unrecognised prestige material among the treasure: bitumen from the Middle East. Whether the bitumen was gifted as diplomatic gesture or acquired through trading links, its presence in the burial attests to the far-reaching network within which the elite of the region operated at this time. If the bitumen was worked into objects, either alone or in composite with other materials, then their significance within the burial would certainly have been strongly linked to their form or purpose. But the novelty of the material itself may have added to the exotic appeal. Archaeological finds of bitumen from this and earlier periods in Britain are extremely rare, despite the abundance of natural sources of bitumen within Great Britain. This find provides the first material evidence indicating that the extensively exploited Middle Eastern bitumen sources were traded northward beyond the Mediterranean to reach northern Europe and the British Isles.

β-1 tubulin R307H SNP alters microtubule dynamics and affects severity of a hereditary thrombocytopenia

BACKGROUND

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in platelet-associated genes partly explain inherent variability in platelet counts. Patients with monoallelic Bernard Soulier syndrome due to the Bolzano mutation (GPIBA A156V) have variable platelet counts despite a common mutation for unknown reasons.

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the effect of the most common SNP (R307H) in the hematopoietic-specific tubulin isotype β-1 in these Bernard Soulier patients and potential microtubule-based mechanisms of worsened thrombocytopenia.

PATIENTS/METHODS

Ninety-four monoallelic Bolzano mutation patients were evaluated for the R307H β-1 SNP and had platelet counts measured by three methods; the Q43P SNP was also evaluated. To investigate possible mechanisms underlying this association, we used molecular modeling of β-1 tubulin with and without the R307H SNP. We transfected SNP or non-SNP β-1 tubulin into MCF-7 and CMK cell lines and measured microtubule regrowth after nocodazole-induced depolymerization.

RESULTS

We found that patients with at least one R307H SNP allele had significantly worse thrombocytopenia; manual platelet counting revealed a median platelet count of 124 in non-SNP patients and 76 in SNP patients (both ×10(9)  L(-1) ; P < 0.01). The Q43P SNP had no significant association with platelet count. Molecular modeling suggested a structural relationship between the R307H SNP and microtubule stability via alterations in the M-loop of β tubulin; in vitro microtubule recovery assays revealed that cells transfected with R307H SNP β-1 had significantly impaired microtubule recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data show that the R307H SNP is significantly associated with the degree of thrombocytopenia in congenital and acquired platelet disorders, and may affect platelets by altering microtubule behavior.

From framework to action: the DESIRE approach to combat desertification

It has become increasingly clear that desertification can only be tackled through a multi-disciplinary approach that not only involves scientists but also stakeholders. In the DESIRE project such an approach was taken. As a first step, a conceptual framework was developed in which the factors and processes that may lead to land degradation and desertification were described. Many of these factors do not work independently, but can reinforce or weaken one another, and to illustrate these relationships sustainable management and policy feedback loops were included. This conceptual framework can be applied globally, but can also be made site-specific to take into account that each study site has a unique combination of bio-physical, socio-economic and political conditions. Once the conceptual framework was defined, a methodological framework was developed in which the methodological steps taken in the DESIRE approach were listed and their logic and sequence were explained. The last step was to develop a concrete working plan to put the project into action, involving stakeholders throughout the process. This series of steps, in full or in part, offers explicit guidance for other organizations or projects that aim to reduce land degradation and desertification.

Nematic susceptibility of hole-doped and electron-doped BaFe2As2 iron-based superconductors from shear modulus measurements

The nematic susceptibility, χφ, of hole-doped Ba(1-x)K(x)Fe2As2 and electron-doped Ba(Fe(1-x)Co(x))2As2 iron-based superconductors is obtained from measurements of the elastic shear modulus using a three-point bending setup in a capacitance dilatometer. Nematic fluctuations, although weakened by doping, extend over the whole superconducting dome in both systems, suggesting their close tie to superconductivity. Evidence for quantum critical behavior of χφ is, surprisingly, only found for Ba(Fe(1-x)Co(x))2As2 and not for Ba(1-x)K(x)Fe2As2--the system with the higher maximal Tc value.

Long-term survival of children less than six years of age enrolled on the CCG-945 phase III trial for newly-diagnosed high-grade glioma: a report from the Children's Oncology Group

BACKGROUND

We analyzed the long-term survival of children under 6 years of age (<6 years) enrolled upon the Children's Cancer Group (CCG)-945 high-grade glioma (HGG) study to determine the impact of intrinsic biological characteristics as well as treatment upon both survival and quality of life (QOL) in this younger age population.

PROCEDURE

Analyses were undertaken on patients <6 years with institutionally diagnosed HGG enrolled on the CCG-945 trial. Comparisons of survival were performed for patients <3 years of age (<3 years) (treated with intent to avoid irradiation) versus those between 3 and 6 years of age (3-6 years) (treated with irradiation and chemotherapy) at diagnosis. Discordance between the institutional diagnoses of HGG and consensus-reviewed diagnoses led us to perform further survival analyses for both groups. We compared the two groups of patients for biological markers, and evaluated the neuropsychological and QOL outcomes of long-term survivors.

RESULTS

Patients <3 years (n = 49, 19.5% of all enrolled patients) at diagnosis had a 10-year EFS and OS of 29 ± 6.5% and 37.5 ± 7%, respectively, while for patients 3-6 years (n = 34, 13.5% of all enrolled patients) 10-year EFS and OS were 35 ± 8% and 36 ± 8%, respectively. Molecular marker analysis showed that a smaller proportion of patients <3 years harbored TP53 mutations (P = 0.05). Analysis of QOL outcomes with a median length of follow-up of 15.1 years (9.5-19.2) showed comparable results.

CONCLUSIONS

QOL and survival data were similar for the two groups. A larger prospective study is justified to study the efficacy of chemotherapy only regimens in younger children.

Evidence of strong correlations and coherence-incoherence crossover in the iron pnictide superconductor KFe2As2

Using resistivity, heat-capacity, thermal-expansion, and susceptibility measurements we study the normal-state behavior of KFe2As2. Both the Sommerfeld coefficient (γ≈103 mJ mol(-1) K(-2)) and the Pauli susceptibility (χ≈4×10(-4)) are strongly enhanced, which confirm the existence of heavy quasiparticles inferred from previous de Haas-van Alphen and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy experiments. We discuss this large enhancement using a Gutzwiller slave-boson mean-field calculation, which shows the proximity of KFe2As2 to an orbital-selective Mott transition. The temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibility and the thermal expansion provide strong experimental evidence for the existence of a coherence-incoherence crossover, similar to what is found in heavy fermion and ruthenate compounds, due to Hund's coupling between orbitals.