Drawing and interpreting data: Children's impressions of onchocerciasis and community-directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI) in four onchocerciasis endemic countries in Africa

Although the depiction of a child leading a blind man is the most enduring image of onchocerciasis in Africa, research activities have hardly involved children. This paper aims at giving voice to children through drawings and their interpretation. The study was conducted in 2009 in Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nigeria and Uganda. Children aged 6–16 years were asked to draw their perceptions of onchocerciasis and community-directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI) in their communities. A total of 50 drawings were generated. The drawings depicted four main aspects of onchocerciasis: (1) the disease symptoms, (2) the negative consequences of onchocerciasis among children and in the community generally, (3) the ivermectin distribution process, and (4) the benefits or effects of taking ivermectin. Out of the 50 drawings, 30 were on symptoms, 7 on effects of the disease on children, 8 on distribution process, and 5 represented multiple perceptions on symptoms, drug distribution processes, benefits, and effects of treatment. The lack of clarity when treatment with ivermectin can be stopped in endemic areas requires working with children to ensure continued compliance with treatment into the future. Children's drawings should be incorporated into health education interventions

Could conservative iron chelation lead to neuroprotection in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis?

Iron accumulation has been observed in mouse models and both sporadic and familial forms of Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Iron chelation could reduce iron accumulation and the related excess of oxidative stress in the motor pathways. However, classical iron chelation would induce systemic iron depletion. We assess the safety and efficacy of conservative iron chelation (i.e. chelation with low risk of iron depletion) in a murine preclinical model and pilot clinical trial. In Sod1G86R mice, deferiprone increased the mean life span as compared with placebo. The safety was good, without anemia after 12 months of deferiprone in the 23 ALS patients enrolled in the clinical trial. The decreases in the ALS Functional Rating Scale and the body mass index (BMI) were significantly smaller for the first 3 months of deferiprone treatment (30 mg/kg/day) than for the first treatment-free period. Iron levels in the cervical spinal cord, medulla oblongata and motor cortex (according to MRI), as well as cerebrospinal fluid levels of oxidative stress and neurofilament light chains were lower after deferiprone treatment. Our observation leads to the hypothesis that moderate iron chelation regimen that avoids changes in systemic iron levels may constitute a novel therapeutic modality of neuroprotection for ALS

Typology, architecture and origin of fluid emission structures and their interactions with sedimentary and tectonic processes. Example of the Eastern Mediterranean

Depuis le début des années 80, les progrès technologiques de l'imagerie des fonds marins et l'exploration des marges continentales ont permis de découvrir et d'étudier de nombreuses morphologies du fond marin témoignant de la circulation des fluides dans la colonne sédimentaire et de leur expulsion. Dans cette étude des volcans de boue, nous proposons une méthode d'analyse innovante combinant une approche statistique automatisée incluant la détection et l'analyse de paramètres morphométriques avec une étude géologique classique. Nous avons utilisé un vaste jeu de données de géophysiques marines et géologiques, d’origines académiques et industrielles, à l’échelle du bassin oriental de la mer Méditerranée.Il ressort de cette analyse que le mécanisme de formation des volcans de boue est directement lié à une contrainte locale ou régionale pouvant avoir une origine tectonique ou gravitaire.Différents paramètres géologiques conditionnant les dimensions et formes des volcans de boue ont été étudiés permettant de proposer un modèle original de leur formation. La conception de ce modèle, qui se veut générique, permet de regrouper les paramètres constitutifs d’un système de volcan de boue en trois étapes spatiales, depuis la couche source jusqu’à l’expression superficielle.Since the early 80s, technological advances of seabed imagery and exploration of continental margins allowed to discover and study numerous seabed features recording fluid circulation within the sediment column.In this study of mud volcanoes, we propose an innovative method of analysis combining an automated statistical approach including detection and analysis of morphometric parameters together with a classical geological study. We used broad homogenous academic and industrial marine geophysical and geological dataset, at the scale of Eastern Mediterranean sea.The analysis of these parameters shows that the mechanism of formation of the mud volcanoes is directly related to a local or regional constrain that may have a tectonic or gravitational origin.Various geological parameters conditioning the size and shape of mud volcanoes have been studied and lead to propose an original model for the formation of mud volcanoes. The design of this model, which is intended to be generic, makes it possible to group the constituent parameters of a mud volcano system in three spatial stages, from the source layer to the superficial expression

Typologie, architecture et origine des structures d'émission de fluides et leurs interactions avec les processus sédimentaires et tectoniques. Exemple de la Méditerranée Orientale

Since the early 80s, technological advances of seabed imagery and exploration of continental margins allowed to discover and study numerous seabed features recording fluid circulation within the sediment column.In this study of mud volcanoes, we propose an innovative method of analysis combining an automated statistical approach including detection and analysis of morphometric parameters together with a classical geological study. We used broad homogenous academic and industrial marine geophysical and geological dataset, at the scale of Eastern Mediterranean sea.The analysis of these parameters shows that the mechanism of formation of the mud volcanoes is directly related to a local or regional constrain that may have a tectonic or gravitational origin.Various geological parameters conditioning the size and shape of mud volcanoes have been studied and lead to propose an original model for the formation of mud volcanoes. The design of this model, which is intended to be generic, makes it possible to group the constituent parameters of a mud volcano system in three spatial stages, from the source layer to the superficial expression.Depuis le début des années 80, les progrès technologiques de l'imagerie des fonds marins et l'exploration des marges continentales ont permis de découvrir et d'étudier de nombreuses morphologies du fond marin témoignant de la circulation des fluides dans la colonne sédimentaire et de leur expulsion. Dans cette étude des volcans de boue, nous proposons une méthode d'analyse innovante combinant une approche statistique automatisée incluant la détection et l'analyse de paramètres morphométriques avec une étude géologique classique. Nous avons utilisé un vaste jeu de données de géophysiques marines et géologiques, d’origines académiques et industrielles, à l’échelle du bassin oriental de la mer Méditerranée.Il ressort de cette analyse que le mécanisme de formation des volcans de boue est directement lié à une contrainte locale ou régionale pouvant avoir une origine tectonique ou gravitaire.Différents paramètres géologiques conditionnant les dimensions et formes des volcans de boue ont été étudiés permettant de proposer un modèle original de leur formation. La conception de ce modèle, qui se veut générique, permet de regrouper les paramètres constitutifs d’un système de volcan de boue en trois étapes spatiales, depuis la couche source jusqu’à l’expression superficielle

Distribution and geological control of mud volcanoes and other fluid/free gas seepage features in the Mediterranean Sea and nearby Gulf of Cadiz

Existing knowledge on the distribution of mud volcanoes (MVs) and other significant fluid/free gas-venting features (mud cones, mud pies, mud-brine pools, mud carbonate cones, gas chimneys and, in some cases, pockmark fields) discovered on the seafloor of the Mediterranean Sea and in the nearby Gulf of Cadiz has been compiled using regional geophysical information (including multibeam coverage of most deepwater areas). The resulting dataset comprises both features proven from geological sampling, or in situ observations, and many previously unrecognized MVs inferred from geophysical evidence. The synthesis reveals that MVs clearly have non-random distributions that correspond to two main geodynamic settings: (1) the vast majority occur along the various tectono-sedimentary accretionary wedges of the Africa-Eurasia subduction zone, particularly in the central and eastern Mediterranean basins (external Calabrian Arc, Mediterranean Ridge, Florence Rise) but also along its westernmost boundary in the Gulf of Cadiz; (2) other MVs characterize thick depocentres along parts of the Mesozoic passive continental margins that border Africa from eastern Tunisia to the Levantine coasts, particularly off Egypt and, locally, within some areas of the western Mediterranean back-arc basins. Meaningfully accounting for MV distribution necessitates evidence of overpressured fluids and mud-rich layers. In addition, cross-correlations between MVs and other GIS-based data, such as maps of the Messinian evaporite basins and/or active (or recently active) tectonic trends, stress the importance of assessing geological control in terms of the presence, or not, of thick seals and potential conduits. It is contended that new MV discoveries may be expected in the study region, particularly along the southern Ionian Sea continental margins

Risk and protective factors related to children’s symptoms of emotional difficulties and hyperactivity/inattention during the COVID-19-related lockdown in France: results from a community sample

International audienceThe COVID-19 epidemic has spread worldwide since December 2019. To contain it, preventive measures including social distancing, economic shutdown, and school closures were introduced, carrying the risk of mental health burden in adults and children. Although the knowledge base regarding children's response to trauma and adverse events in general has broadened, descriptions of their mental health during epidemics remain scarce. In particular, the role of family socioeconomic characteristics and parental mental health are poorly understood.MethodsWe assessed the correlates of children’s emotional difficulties and symptoms of hyperactivity/inattention during the COVID-19 lockdown in a French community-based sample. Data came from 432 community-based parents (27–46 years, TEMPO cohort) and their children (mean age 6.8 ± 4.1) interviewed online. Children’s symptoms of emotional difficulties and hyperactivity/inattention were assessed using the parent-reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire during the 5th week of home confinement. Family socioeconomic characteristics and parental mental health and substance use were assessed weekly during the first 5 weeks of home confinement. Data were analyzed using logistic regression models.Results7.1% of children presented symptoms of emotional difficulties and 24.7% symptoms of hyperactivity/inattention. Family financial difficulties and parental symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as children’s sleeping difficulties and screen time, were associated with the presence of psychological difficulties.ConclusionChildren's emotional and behavioural difficulties are associated with parental mental health and socioeconomic difficulties. In the unprecedented situation of the COVID-19 epidemic, parents and professionals involved in caring for children should pay special attention to their mental health needs

Whole and fractionated human platelet lysate biomaterials-based biotherapy induces strong neuroprotection in experimental models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

International audienceAmyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease of motor neurons leading to death within 3 years and without a curative treatment. Neurotrophic growth factors (NTFs) are pivotal for cell survival. A reason for the lack of patient efficacy with single recombinant NTF brain infusion is likely to be due to the synergistic neuroprotective action of multiple NTFs on a diverse set of signaling pathways. Fractionated (protein size <50, <30, <10, <3 kDa) heat-treated human platelet lysate (HHPL) preparations were adapted for use in brain tissue with the aim of demonstrating therapeutic value in ALS models and further elucidation of the mechanisms of action. In neuronal culture all fractions induced Akt-dependent neuroprotection as well as a strong anti-apoptotic and anti-ferroptotic action. In the <3 kDa fraction anti-ferroptotic properties were shown to be GPX4 dependent highlighting a role for other platelet elements associated with NTFs. In the SOD1G86

Inborn errors of TLR3- or MDA5-dependent type I IFN immunity in children with enterovirus rhombencephalitis

International audienceEnterovirus (EV) infection rarely results in life-threatening infection of the central nervous system. We report two unrelated children with EV30 and EV71 rhombencephalitis. One patient carries compound heterozygous TLR3 variants (loss-of-function F322fs2* and hypomorphic D280N), and the other is homozygous for an IFIH1 variant (loss-of-function c.1641+1G&gt;C). Their fibroblasts respond poorly to extracellular (TLR3) or intracellular (MDA5) poly(I:C) stimulation. The baseline (TLR3) and EV-responsive (MDA5) levels of IFN-β in the patients’ fibroblasts are low. EV growth is enhanced at early and late time points of infection in TLR3- and MDA5-deficient fibroblasts, respectively. Treatment with exogenous IFN-α2b before infection renders both cell lines resistant to EV30 and EV71, whereas post-infection treatment with IFN-α2b rescues viral susceptibility fully only in MDA5-deficient fibroblasts. Finally, the poly(I:C) and viral phenotypes of fibroblasts are rescued by the expression of WT TLR3 or MDA5. Human TLR3 and MDA5 are critical for cell-intrinsic immunity to EV, via the control of baseline and virus-induced type I IFN production, respectively

Protoplasma

Botryosphaeria dieback, esca and Eutypa dieback are three economic major grapevine trunk diseases that cause severe yield reduction in vineyards worldwide. The frequency of disease symptoms has increased considerably over the past decade, and no efficient treatment is currently available to control these diseases. The different fungi associated with grapevine trunk diseases mainly induce necrotic wood and characteristic foliar symptoms. In this context, fungi virulence factors and host invasion are not well understood. We hypothesise that extracellular proteins produced by Diplodia seriata and Neofusicoccum parvum, two causal agents associated with Botryosphaeria dieback, are virulence factors responsible for the pathogenicity. In our previous work, we demonstrated that the total extracellular compounds produced by N. parvum induced more necrosis on Chardonnay calli and triggered a different defence gene expression pattern than those produced by D. seriata. Furthermore, this aggressiveness was not clearly correlated with the production of mellein, a characteristic phytotoxin of Botryosphaeriaceae, in our in vitro calli model. To characterise other potential virulence factors and to understand the mechanisms of host invasion by the fungus, we evaluated the profile, quantity and the impact of extracellular proteins produced by these fungi on Vitis vinifera calli necrosis and defence gene expression. Our results reveal that, under the same conditions, N. parvum produces more extracellular proteins and in higher concentrations than D. seriata. With Vitis vinifera cv. Chardonnay cells, we showed that equivalent concentrations of proteins secreted by N. parvum were more aggressive than those of D. seriata in producing necrosis and that they clearly induced more grapevine defence genes