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Assessing the Contribution of Vestibular and Auditory Functions in Evolution of Sagitta Morphology
No full textThe otoliths, which are calcified structures found in the inner ear, play a crucial role in hearing and equilibrium of fishes. Saccular otoliths are widely used in fields such as palaeontology and fishery science owing to their species-specific morphology and lifelong recording of environmental conditions, offering a window into virtually every moment of the fish life. Nevertheless, the factors explaining their outstanding morphological diversity remain unclear. The primary aim of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of the drivers that have shaped the current diversity of saccular otoliths in fish.
To achieve this, I pursued two main objectives: (1) to conduct comprehensive broad scale comparative analyses to disentangle the main drivers of morphological variation in otoliths accross fishes and (2) to perform an experimental study to assess the influence of the vestibular function of the sagitta and demonstrate the adaptability of this hard structure in response to environmental conditions.
The diversification of otolith shape was assessed across actinopterygians, encompassing hundreds of species. Geometric morphometric analyses applied to both lateral and dorsal views revealed a strong integration between the overall otolith morphology and sulcus shape, supporting the close functional link between otolith in the inner ear functions. Otolith disparity is primarily driven by rostro-caudal elongation, sulcus acusticus shape variation, and differences in curvature. Otolith shape and size exhibited a low phylogenetic signal and were decoupled from order age and functional diversity. However, there was evidence linking certain aspects of otolith disparity to evolutionary rates and order-level speciation rates, suggesting complex evolutionary dynamics.
Using the same large taxonomic dataset, I then tested the relationships between seven functionally relevant ecological traits and otolith shape. By combining multivariate analyses with phylogenetically informed linear models, I demonstrated that light/dark environment, water column use, social behaviour, and acoustic communication were the strongest predictors of otolith shape. Species living in photic environments and gregarious taxa exhibited thinner, elongated, and curved otoliths with a relatively large sensory area implying a functional feedback of fish lifestyle on otolith morphology. Interestingly, acoustic-related traits had lower influence than expected on lateral and dorsal shape variation compared to ecological factors related to the vestibular function.
A third comparative work focused on the ecologically diverse family of Labridae (wrasses). This study showed that otolith shape resulted from a complex interplay between phylogenetic and ecological constraints. I detected a high level of morphological conservatism within tribes. However, model-fitting approaches revealed that adaptation to various habitats and feeding ecologies was associated with divergence in the complexity of the otolith contour. Benthic feeders possessed more lobate and crenate otoliths than pelagic feeders, likely enhancing vestibular function to accommodate the smoother manoeuvrability required in benthic environments.
Finally, beyond comparative works, an original experimental setup tested the plasticity of otolith morphology in response to environmental complexity. Nile tilapia raised in structurally enriched environments developed larger, thicker, and more voluminous sagittae while their auditory sensitivity remained unchanged. This suggests that the observed morphological variation primarily affected vestibular function rather than hearing capabilities, providing empirical support for the dual function of the sagittae and reinforcing our previous ecomorphological findings.
The approach developed along this PhD thesis and its associated results reaffirm the dual auditory and vestibular influences on sagittae morphology. This study underscores the multifaceted nature of otolith evolution and demonstrates how the combination of genetic inheritance, clade-specific life-history traits, ecological pressures, and phenotypic plasticity had driven the tremendous morphological diversity of otoliths. By combining large-scale phylogenetic analyses with controlled experiments, this work provides new insights into the selective forces driving the diversification of this key sensory structure, encouraging future research to adopt a more integrative approach when studying the evolution of fish inner ear features
Enhancing cognitive functions in aged dogs and cats: a systematic review of enriched diets and nutraceuticals.
No full textpeer reviewedWith advancements in veterinary care and the growing recognition of pets as integral member of the family, the lifespans of dogs and cats have significantly increased, leading to a higher prevalence of age-related conditions, including cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). CDS adversely impacts pets' quality of life and presents emotional and practical challenges for owners. Given its similarities to Alzheimer's disease in humans, CDS has gained attention as a target for nutrition-based interventions aimed at preserving cognitive function. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of enriched diets and nutraceuticals in improving cognition in aging companion animals. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, CAB Abstracts, Web of Science, and Dimensions to identify clinical trials published in English that investigated the effects of enriched diets or nutraceuticals on cognitive functions in aged cats or dogs. Study quality was assessed using a modified CAMARADES checklist. A total of 30 studies (27 canine and 2 feline trials) published between 2002 and 2023 were reviewed. Studies on enriched diets generally demonstrated higher methodological quality compared to those on supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids showed cognitive benefits in aging pets, especially at higher doses, while antioxidants from plant extracts and products and vitamins E and C alone were less effective but remain essential for stabilizing omega-3 fatty acids. Other supplements, including S-adenosyl methionine, medium-chain triglycerides, homotaurine, and apoaequorin, also showed promise. However, future studies must standardize protocols, include robust control groups, and utilize both objective tasks and subjective questionnaires to strengthen conclusions
How I treat… An open bite secondary to ankylosis of a primary molar tooth.
No full texteditorial reviewedInfraclusion is a consequence of dentoalveolar ankylosis. Associated complications include extrusion of the opposing tooth, open bites, and tilts. Early detection and management are crucial to limit and/or correct these complications. Different therapeutic options exist when a deciduous tooth is ankylosed : preservation or extraction (with or without space closure). The goal of this article is to highlight the advantages of the injected composite technique for restoring the tooth when preservation has been chosen.L’infraclusion est une conséquence de l’ankylose alvéolo-dentaire. Les complications qui y sont liées incluent une égression de la dent antagoniste, des béances, des bascules,… Une détection et une prise en charge précoce sont primordiales pour limiter et/ou corriger ces complications. Différentes options thérapeutiques existent lorsqu’une dent de lait (temporaire) est ankylosée : préservation ou extraction (avec ou sans fermeture des espaces). Le but de cet article est d’exposer l’avantage de la technique du composite injecté pour restaurer la dent lors de la préservation de celle-ci
Printing privilege in the Prince-Bishopric of Liège during the Early Modern Period (16th – 17th centuries)
No full textReliability of GFR Estimated by Creatinine-Based Formulas in Moderate-to-Severe Proteinuria.
Full text linkpeer reviewed[en] KEY POINTS: GFR estimations are biased in patients with frank nephrotic syndrome, but the problem is uncharacterized in patients with non-nephrotic proteinuria. We investigated the bias and accuracy of eGFR formulas in patients with mild-to-moderate proteinuria participating in the ramipril in nondiabetic renal failure 1 and 2 trials. The CKD Epidemiology Collaboration 2009 and 2021 and European Kidney Function Consortium equations show no significant bias and sufficient accuracy in moderate-to-severe proteinuria.
BACKGROUND: Creatinine-based GFR formulas introduce a substantial bias in GFR estimations in patients with frank nephrotic syndrome. The bias and accuracy of creatinine-based GFR estimates (eGFR) in patients with non-nephrotic proteinuria need better characterization.
METHODS: We used data from the Ramipril in Nondiabetic Renal Failure (ramipril in nondiabetic renal failure [REIN] 1) and REIN 2 trials involving nondiabetic CKD patients with proteinuria to compare eGFRs derived from the CKD Epidemiology Collaboration formulas (with and without race) and the European Kidney Function Consortium equations with iohexol clearance (a gold-standard GFR measure, measured GFR [mGFR]). Bias was defined as the median difference between eGFR and mGFR while accuracy was assessed using P30 and P15 metrics, which represent the percentage of eGFR values within ±30% and ±15% of mGFR, respectively.
RESULTS: The median bias of the three formulas being compared did not differ, being minimal and in a strict range (0.04–0.05 ml/ml per min per 1.73 m2) in the REIN 1 trial and (−0.04 to 0.03 ml/min per 1.73 m2) in the REIN 2 trial. These findings were confirmed in analyses stratified by age and mGFR. The global accuracy of the three formulas regarding P30 % showed sufficient accuracy (P30 >75%) in the REIN 1 trial and all strata in the REIN 2 trial, but the mGFR stratum was <15 ml/min per 1.73 m2.
CONCLUSIONS: The CKD Epidemiology Collaboration (with and without race) and European Kidney Function Consortium equations show no significant bias and sufficient accuracy in patients with proteinuria. These formulas can be safely applied to nondiabetic CKD patients with moderate-to-severe proteinuria.
CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NAME AND REGISTRATION NUMBER:: This is a post hoc analysis of two trials, REIN 1 and 2, published about 20 years ago
Envisager l’autorité dans les normes rituelles grecques par la terminologie et ses agents
No full textP0129 Distinct involvement of plasma cells and monocytes/macrophages in ileal and colonic ulcer formation in patients with Crohn's disease
Full text linkpeer reviewedAbstract
Background
Despite its interest for the development of personalised medicine, the pathophysiological distinctions between ileal and colonic Crohn’s disease (CD) have been poorly characterised. This study aims to search for immunological differences between ileal and colonic CD.
Methods
We reanalysed our proteomic dataset1 to extract non-exploited immunological information. Using mass spectrometry-based proteomics, we previously compared the proteome of ulcer edges and adjacent normal mucosa (paired design) in the ileum (n=16 biopsies) and colon (n=16 biopsies) of 16 CD patients (Figure 1). A total of 4,428 and 5,204 proteins were screened in the ileum and colon, respectively. To identify proteins specific to particular immune cell populations, we searched in the Human Proteome Atlas and literature.
Results
We identified markers specific to plasma cells (IgA1, IgM, IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, immunoglobulin J chain [IGJ], and immunoglobulin lambda-like polypeptide 5 [IGLL5]), monocytes/macrophages (cluster of differentiation 14 [CD14]), and mast cells (chymase [CMA1], mast cell carboxypeptidase A [CPA3], and tryptase alpha/beta-1 [TPSAB1]). No specific markers were identified for the other immune cells. The number of increased plasma cell markers (ulcer edges vs adjacent normal mucosa) was higher in the ileum (IgA1, IgM, IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IGLL5, and IGJ) than in the colon (IgG3) (Figure 2). Of note, immune exclusion markers (IgM, IgA1, IGJ) were increased in the ileum, but not the colon (ulcer edges vs adjacent normal mucosa). The marker of monocytes/macrophages CD14 was increased in the colon, but not in the ileum (ulcer edges vs adjacent normal mucosa) (Figure 2). Mast cells markers (CMA1, CPA3, and TPSAB1) showed no significant change in the ileum or colon (ulcer edges vs adjacent normal mucosa) (Figure 2).
Conclusion
Plasma cells and monocytes/macrophages may play distinct roles in the formation of ileal and colonic ulcers in patients with CD, suggesting further investigations.
References
1.Pierre N, Salée C, Massot C, Blétard N, Mazzucchelli G, Smargiasso N, et al. Proteomics Highlights Common and Distinct Pathophysiological Processes Associated with Ileal and Colonic Ulcers in Crohn’s Disease. J Crohns Colitis 2020;14(2):205–15.
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Platform for exploiting spatio-temporal maritime data: functionalities and case studies
No full textpeer reviewe
La santé. Une question de justice sociale
Full text linkLes inégalités sociales de santé sont les reflets de disparités socio-économiques, politiques et environnementales, et se traduisent par des écarts significatifs en termes d’accès aux soins, d’état de santé, physique comme mentale, et de mortalité. En Belgique, les données révèlent que les populations défavorisées cumulent ainsi de nombreux désavantages au niveau de la santé. Agir sur ces inégalités exige des politiques inclusives, inscrites dans une démarche de justice sociale et de promotion de la santé.10. Reduced inequalitie