Mosquito genomics. Extensive introgression in a malaria vector species complex revealed by phylogenomics.

Introgressive hybridization is now recognized as a widespread phenomenon, but its role in evolution remains contested. Here, we use newly available reference genome assemblies to investigate phylogenetic relationships and introgression in a medically important group of Afrotropical mosquito sibling species. We have identified the correct species branching order to resolve a contentious phylogeny and show that lineages leading to the principal vectors of human malaria were among the first to split.

Differential evolution of asexual and sexual females in a benign culture environment.

Here we report one of the first investigations of evolvability of lifespan and reproduction in metazoans, examining both extrinsic and intrinsic factors. We tested effects on senescence of an environmental variable (simulated lake hydroperiod, the length of time an aquatic habitat is inundated), female reproductive physiology (asexual females that reproduce by ameiosis, versus sexual females reproducing by meiosis), and time in a benign culture environment (minimal, if any, external mortality factors). To do this we established chemostat cultures of the rotifer s.

Exposure to dsRNA elicits RNA interference in Brachionus manjavacas (Rotifera).

RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful technique for functional genomics, yet no studies have reported its successful application to zooplankton. Many zooplankton, particularly microscopic metazoans of phylum Rotifera, have unique life history traits for which genetic investigation has been limited. In this paper, we report the development of RNAi methods for rotifers, with the exogenous introduction of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) through the use of a lipofection reagent.

Genetic determinants of mate recognition in Brachionus manjavacas (Rotifera).

Background: Mate choice is of central importance to most animals, influencing population structure, speciation, and ultimately the survival of a species. Mating behavior of male brachionid rotifers is triggered by the product of a chemosensory gene, a glycoprotein on the body surface of females called the mate recognition pheromone. The mate recognition pheromone has been biochemically characterized, but little was known about the gene(s).

Assessing adherence to the evidence base in the management of poststroke dysphagia.

Objective: To evaluate the reliability and responsiveness to change of an audit tool to assess adherence to evidence of effectiveness in the speech and language therapy (SLT) management of poststroke dysphagia.

Design: The tool was used to review SLT practice as part of a randomized study of different education strategies. Medical records were audited before and after delivery of the trial intervention.