scholarly journals The Association between Virus Prevalence and Intercolonial Aggression Levels in the Yellow Crazy Ant, Anoplolepis Gracilipes (Jerdon)

Insects ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (12) ◽  
pp. 436 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hung-Wei Hsu ◽  
Ming-Chung Chiu ◽  
Ching-Chen Lee ◽  
Chow-Yang Lee ◽  
Chin-Cheng Scotty Yang
Keyword(s):  
Social Interactions ◽  
Model System ◽  
Anoplolepis Gracilipes ◽  
Viral Pathogen ◽  
Geographic Ranges ◽  
Virus Prevalence ◽  
Prevalence Level ◽  
Colony Boundary ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Study Sites

The recent discovery of multiple viruses in ants, along with the widespread infection of their hosts across geographic ranges, provides an excellent opportunity to test whether viral prevalence in the field is associated with the complexity of social interactions in the ant population. In this study, we examined whether the association exists between the field prevalence of a virus and the intercolonial aggression of its ant host, using the yellow crazy ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes) and its natural viral pathogen (TR44839 virus) as a model system. We delimitated the colony boundary and composition of A. gracilipes in a total of 12 study sites in Japan (Okinawa), Taiwan, and Malaysia (Penang), through intercolonial aggression assay. The spatial distribution and prevalence level of the virus was then mapped for each site. The virus occurred at a high prevalence in the surveyed colonies of Okinawa and Taiwan (100% infection rate across all sites), whereas virus prevalence was variable (30%–100%) or none (0%) at the sites in Penang. Coincidentally, colonies in Okinawa and Taiwan displayed a weak intercolonial boundary, as aggression between colonies is generally low or moderate. Contrastingly, sites in Penang were found to harbor a high proportion of mutually aggressive colonies, a pattern potentially indicative of complex colony composition. Our statistical analyses further confirmed the observed correlation, implying that intercolonial interactions likely contribute as one of the effective facilitators of/barriers to virus prevalence in the field population of this ant species.

Expansion of Groundnut ringspot virus Host and Geographic Ranges in Solanaceous Vegetables in Peninsular Florida

2011 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 34 ◽  
Author(s):  
Craig G. Webster ◽  
William W. Turechek ◽  
H. Charles Mellinger ◽  
Galen Frantz ◽  
Nancy Roe ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
The United States ◽  
Vegetable Production ◽  
Viral Pathogen ◽  
Geographic Ranges ◽  
First Report ◽  
Geographic Spread ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Production Areas ◽  
Solanaceous Plants

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of GRSV infecting tomatillo and eggplant, and it is the first report of GRSV infecting pepper in the United States. This first identification of GRSV-infected crop plants in commercial fields in Palm Beach and Manatee Counties demonstrates the continuing geographic spread of the virus into additional vegetable production areas of Florida. This information indicates that a wide range of solanaceous plants is likely to be infected by this emerging viral pathogen in Florida and beyond. Accepted for publication 27 June 2011. Published 25 July 2011.

scholarly journals Individual Morphology and Habitat Structure Alter Social Interactions in a Range-Shifting Species

Diversity ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 6 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zachary J. Cannizzo ◽  
Sara K. Nix ◽  
Isabel C. Whaling ◽  
Blaine D. Griffen
Keyword(s):  
Salt Marsh ◽  
Social Interactions ◽  
Foundation Species ◽  
Species Structure ◽  
Geographic Ranges ◽  
Mangrove Tree ◽  
As Species ◽  
Aratus Pisonii ◽  
And Behavior ◽  
Behavioral Assays

Ecosystem engineers that serve as foundation species shape the ecology and behavior of the species which depend on them. As species shift their geographic ranges into ecosystems they have not previously inhabited, it is important to understand how interactions with novel foundation species alter their behavior. By employing behavioral assays and morphological analyses, we examined how individual morphology and foundation species structure impact the ritualistic aggression behavior of the range shifting mangrove tree crab Aratus pisonii between its historic and colonized habitats. Structure of the foundation species of the colonized salt marsh ecosystem increases the incidence and risk of this behavior over the historic mangrove habitat, potentially negating benefits of ritualizing aggression. Further, docks within the salt marsh, which are structurally analogous to mangroves, mitigate some, but not all, of the increased costs of performing ritualized aggression. Crabs in the salt marsh also had relatively larger claws than conspecifics from the dock and mangrove habitats, which has implications for the risk and outcomes of ritualized interactions. These changes to morphology and behavior highlight the impacts that foundation species structure can have on the morphology, ecology, and behavior of organisms and the importance of studying these impacts in range shifting species.

scholarly journals Assessment of Flatfoot Index and Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Foot in Young Athletes: Swimming, Rowing and Weightlifting

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 58-63
Author(s):  
Israel Miguel Andrés ◽  
Milagros Pons Portugal ◽  
José De Jesús Mayagoitia Vázquez ◽  
Elias Gabriel Carrum Siller ◽  
Ma. Eugenia Pérez Rodríguez
Keyword(s):  
Musculoskeletal Disorders ◽  
Average Height ◽  
Young Athletes ◽  
Average Mass ◽  
Prevalence Level ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Cavus Foot ◽  
Soles Of The Feet ◽  
The Right ◽  
Low Prevalence

Objectives: The objective of this work was to analyze the morphology of the soles of the feet in young athletes to find the prevalence of these pathologies through the Chippaux-Smirak index. Material and Methods: Seventy-five athletes between nine and twenty years old participated in the study (56% female and 44% male), the average mass was 62.92 ± 13.46kg and the average height was 1.67 ± 0.11m. The sports considered in the study were weightlifting, swimming, and rowing. Results: The results clearly show that flatfeet in adolescents and young adults is a condition with a low prevalence level, 10.7% and 12% for the right and left foot, respectively. One of the most outstanding results found in the study is the high prevalence of cavus foot, where women are the most affected by this pathology. Furthermore, swimming presented the highest prevalence of cavus foot, 42.1% and 52.6% for the right and left foot, respectively. Conclusion:  In conclusion, the understanding of the morphology of the soles of the feet can help to determine the foot type in these three different sports, and therefore, it can be implemented physiotherapeutic treatments or orthotics devices for overcome the musculoskeletal disorders and prevent future injures.

scholarly journals Psychological Distress Among People Losing Work During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Australia

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alex Collie ◽  
Luke Sheehan ◽  
Caryn van Vreden ◽  
Genevieve Grant ◽  
Peter Whiteford ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Distress ◽  
Social Interaction ◽  
Social Interactions ◽  
Job Loss ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Work Loss ◽  
Occupational Characteristics ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Study Participants ◽  
The Relationship

AbstractIntroductionThis study estimated the extent of psychological distress among people losing work during the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Australia, and examined associations between distress, nature of work loss and degree of social interaction.MethodsData were from a baseline online survey of an inception cohort recruited in the weeks following the introduction of physical distancing and movement restrictions to contain the spread of COVID-19 in Australia. These restrictions resulted in widespread unemployment and working hour reduction. Psychological distress was measured using the Kessler-6 scale. Data on nature of work loss, social interactions, demographic, job and occupational characteristics were also collected. Regression modelling was conducted to determine the relationship between work loss, social interactions and psychological distress, accounting for confounders.ResultsAmong the 551 study participants 31% reported severe psychological distress, 35% in those with job loss and 28% in those still employed but working less. Those who had significantly greater odds of high psychological distress were younger, female, had lost their job and had lower social interactions. The relationship between job loss and distress became non-significant when financial stress, and occupation were included in the regression model, but the protective effect of higher social interactions remained significant.DiscussionThere was a high prevalence of psychological distress in people losing work during the coronavirus pandemic. Age, gender, job loss and social interactions were strongly associated with distress. Interventions that promote social interaction may help to reduce distress during among people losing work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

scholarly journals Estimation of Olfactory Sensitivity Using a Bayesian Adaptive Method

Nutrients ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (6) ◽  
pp. 1278 ◽  
Author(s):  
Richard Höchenberger ◽  
Kathrin Ohla
Keyword(s):  
Social Interactions ◽  
Eating Behavior ◽  
Adaptive Algorithm ◽  
Adaptive Method ◽  
Olfactory Sensitivity ◽  
Established Method ◽  
Environmental Threats ◽  
Reliable Assessment ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Olfactory Stimuli

The ability to smell is crucial for most species as it enables the detection of environmental threats like smoke, fosters social interactions, and contributes to the sensory evaluation of food and eating behavior. The high prevalence of smell disturbances throughout the life span calls for a continuous effort to improve tools for quick and reliable assessment of olfactory function. Odor-dispensing pens, called Sniffin’ Sticks, are an established method to deliver olfactory stimuli during diagnostic evaluation. We tested the suitability of a Bayesian adaptive algorithm (QUEST) to estimate olfactory sensitivity using Sniffin’ Sticks by comparing QUEST sensitivity thresholds with those obtained using a procedure based on an established standard staircase protocol. Thresholds were measured twice with both procedures in two sessions (Test and Retest). Overall, both procedures exhibited considerable overlap, with QUEST displaying slightly higher test-retest correlations, less variability between measurements, and reduced testing duration. Notably, participants were more frequently presented with the highest concentration during QUEST, which may foster adaptation and habituation effects. We conclude that further research is required to better understand and optimize the procedure for assessment of olfactory performance.

scholarly journals Molecular identification and prevalence of tick-borne pathogens in zebu and taurine cattle in North Cameroon

2019 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Babette Abanda ◽  
Archile Paguem ◽  
Mamoudou Abdoulmoumini ◽  
Manchang Tanyi Kingsley ◽  
Alfons Renz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Significant Risk ◽  
Significant Risk Factor ◽  
Control Measures ◽  
Correct Identification ◽  
Ehrlichia Ruminantium ◽  
Rickettsia Africae ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Northern Cameroon ◽  
Study Sites ◽  
High Level

Abstract Background Public interest for tick-borne pathogens in cattle livestock is rising due to their veterinary and zoonotic importance. Consequently, correct identification of these potential pathogens is crucial to estimate the level of exposition, the risk and the detrimental impact on livestock and the human population. Results Conventional PCR with generic primers was used to identify groups of tick-borne pathogens in cattle breeds from northern Cameroon. The overall prevalence in 1260 blood samples was 89.1%, with 993 (78.8%) positive for Theileria/Babesia spp., 959 (76.1%) for Anaplasma/Ehrlichia spp., 225 (17.9%) for Borrelia spp., and 180 (14.3%) for Rickettsia spp. Sanger sequencing of a subset of positively-tested samples revealed the presence of Theileria mutans (92.2%, 130/141), T. velifera (16.3%, 23/141), Anaplasma centrale (10.9%, 15/137), A. marginale (30.7%, 42/137), A. platys (51.1%, 70/137), Anaplasma sp. ‘Hadesa’ (10.9%, 15/137), Ehrlichia ruminantium (0.7%, 1/137), E. canis (0.7%, 1/137), Borrelia theileri (91.3%, 42/46), Rickettsia africae (59.4%, 19/32) and R. felis (12.5%, 4/32). A high level of both intra- and inter-generic co-infections (76.0%) was observed. To the best of our knowledge, B. theileri, T. mutans, T. velifera, A. platys, Anaplasma sp. ‘Hadesa’, R. felis and E. canis are reported for the first time in cattle from Cameroon, and for R. felis it is the first discovery in the cattle host. Babesia spp. were not detected by sequencing. The highest number of still identifiable species co-infections was up to four pathogens per genus group. Multifactorial analyses revealed a significant association of infection with Borrelia theileri and anemia. Whereas animals of older age had a higher risk of infection, the Gudali cattle had a lower risk compared to the other local breeds. Conclusion Co-infections of tick-borne pathogens with an overall high prevalence were found in all five study sites, and were more likely to occur than single infections. Fulani, Namchi and Kapsiki were the most infected breed in general; however, with regions as significant risk factor. A better-adapted approach for tick-borne pathogen identification in co-infected samples is a requirement for epidemiological investigations and tailored control measures.

scholarly journals OV16 Seroprevalence among Persons with Epilepsy in Onchocerciasis Endemic Regions: A Multi-Country Study

Pathogens ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (10) ◽  
pp. 847
Author(s):  
Alfred Dusabimana ◽  
Dan Bhwana ◽  
Michel Mandro ◽  
Bruno P. Mmbando ◽  
Joseph N. Siewe Fodjo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Persons ◽  
Democratic Republic ◽  
Democratic Republic Of Congo ◽  
Antibody Prevalence ◽  
Epidemiological Evidence ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Country Study ◽  
Health Zone ◽  
Study Sites ◽  
River Valleys

There is growing epidemiological evidence that onchocerciasis may induce epilepsy. High prevalence of onchocerciasis has been reported in onchocerciasis-meso and hyper-endemic regions. We aimed to determine the OV16 antibody prevalence in persons with epilepsy (PWE) in four onchocerciasis-endemic regions. PWE were identified during studies in Mahenge area (Tanzania), Kitgum and Pader districts (Uganda), the Mbam and Sanaga river valleys (Cameroon), and the Logo health zone (Democratic Republic of Congo). Exposure to Onchocerca volvulus was assessed by testing PWE for OV16 IgG4 antibodies using a rapid diagnostic test. The OV16 seroprevalence among PWE in the four onchocerciasis-endemic study sites ranged from 35.2% to 59.7%. OV16 seroprevalence increased with age until the age of 39 years, after which it decreased drastically. Our study suggests that, in onchocerciasis-endemic regions, epilepsy in young people is often associated with onchocerciasis, while epilepsy in older persons seems unrelated to O. volvulus exposure.

scholarly journals Meta-analysis of epilepsy prevalence in West Africa and its relationship with onchocerciasis endemicity and control

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 192-202 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joseph Nelson Siewe Fodjo ◽  
Jan H F Remme ◽  
Pierre-Marie Preux ◽  
Robert Colebunders
Keyword(s):  
West Africa ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Population Based ◽  
West African ◽  
Early Years ◽  
African Countries ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Study Sites ◽  
Onchocerciasis Control

Abstract Background A high prevalence and incidence of epilepsy has been reported in onchocerciasis-endemic regions in Central and East Africa. There is compelling epidemiological evidence suggesting that this high burden is caused by onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy (OAE). We hypothesized that OAE had also occured in West African onchocerciasis foci. Methods We searched PubMed, the African Journals Online platform and grey literature for population-based epilepsy studies in West African countries. Epilepsy and onchocerciasis prevalence data were extracted. The pre-control onchocerciasis endemicity in the study sites was estimated from historical data of onchocerciasis control programmes. The prevalence of epilepsy in different sites was analysed, taking into account onchocerciasis endemicity and the duration of control. Results The pooled prevalence of epilepsy in the West African study sites was 13.14 per 1000 (95% confidence interval 11.28–15.00). Higher pre-control endemicity and a shorter duration of onchocerciasis control were both associated with increased epilepsy prevalence (p<0.001). Two studies in Ivory Coast that provided detailed descriptions of persons with epilepsy in onchocerciasis-endemic settings revealed that most of them had features of OAE (73.7% and 83.3%, respectively). Conclusions Our findings suggest that before and during the early years of implementing onchocerciasis control in West Africa, high onchocerciasis endemicity resulted in a high prevalence of OAE and that subsequent control efforts significantly reduced the prevalence of OAE.

scholarly journals High prevalence rates of antibody to three sandfly fever viruses (Sicilian, Naples and Toscana) among Cypriots

1991 ◽  
Vol 107 (3) ◽  
pp. 685-691 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. Eitrem ◽  
M. Stylianou ◽  
B. Niklasson
Keyword(s):  
Neutralizing Antibodies ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Prevalence Rates ◽  
Antibody Prevalence ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
History Of ◽  
Study Sites ◽  
Antibody Levels

SUMMARYNeutralizing antibodies to sandfly fever Naples, sandfly fever Sicilian and Toscana viruses were investigated among 479 sera collected from a normal human population in Cyprus. Antibody prevalence rates of 57%, 32% and 20% were found to Naples, Sicilian and Toscana viruses, respectively. The observed frequency of dual and triple infections was higher than would be expected with a random chance of infection. Antibody prevalence rates were similar for men and women for all three viruses tested, but one of two study sites had significantly higher antibody prevalence to Naples and Sicilian viruses than the other. Individuals with antibodies to both Naples and Toscana viruses had higher antibody levels to Naples virus than those with antibodies to Naples virus only. If the antibody prevalence rates found in this study reflect a history of clinical disease as described in the literature, sandfly fever poses a significant public health problem in Cyprus.

scholarly journals Overview On The Epidemiological Situation And The Brucellosis’ Control, Between 1974 -2014, In West Bank, Palestine

2018 ◽  
Vol 75 (1) ◽  
pp. 104
Author(s):  
Elena AWWAD ◽  
Younis SBEIH ◽  
Osama AWWAD ◽  
Mohammad FARRAJ ◽  
Tamer ESSAWI ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Human Health ◽  
Human Population ◽  
Control Program ◽  
Health Impact ◽  
Vaccination Rate ◽  
Human Infection ◽  
Human Health Impact ◽  
Prevalence Level ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Epidemiological Situation

Brucellosis in Palestine is a problem of huge concern due to the human health impact, as consequence of the high prevalence level of the infection in livestock. The purpose of the research was to give an insight of the current epidemiological peculiarities of the brucellosis in livestock versus human population. This paper processed all data of the brucellosis’ control program and the epidemio-surveillance results. The seroprevalence of brucellosis in 1999, was 18% in sheep and goat and 80% in flocks, and more than 800 human cases. As result of mass vaccination, with 80% coverage vaccination rate, the decrease of brucellosis was registered: 4.8% in animals and 40% in flock; human infection less than 200 cases. The main conclusion of our study is that the vaccination must be in force up to the level of prevalence, below 2% in animals, allowing the next step, the “test-and-slaughter” strategy, toward the eradication goal.

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