bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cholesterol in membranes facilitates aggregation of amyloid β protein at physiologically low concentrations
Authors: Banerjee Siddhartha , Hashemi Mohtadin , Zagorski Karen , Lyubchenko Yuri L.
Published: September 2020

The formation of amyloid β (1-42) (Aβ42) oligomers is considered to be a critical step in the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the mechanism underlying this process at physiologically low concentrations of Aβ42 remains unclear. We have previously shown that oligomers assemble at such low Aβ42 monomer concentrationsin vitroon phospholipid membranes. We hypothesized that membrane composition is the factor controlling the aggregation process. Accumulation of cholesterol in membranes is associated with AD development, suggesting that insertion of cholesterol into membranes may initiate the Aβ42 aggregation, regardless of a low monomer concentration. We used atomic force microscopy (AFM) to directly visualize the aggregation process of Aβ42 on the surface of a lipid bilayer containing cholesterol. Time-lapse AFM imaging unambiguously demonstrates that cholesterol in the lipid bilayer significantly enhances the aggregation process of Aβ42 at nanomolar monomer concentration. Quantitative analysis of the AFM data shows that both the number of Aβ42 oligomers and their sizes grow when cholesterol is present. Importantly, the aggregation process is dynamic, so the aggregates assembled on the membrane can dissociate from the bilayer surface into the bulk solution. Computational modeling demonstrated that the lipid bilayer containing cholesterol had an elevated affinity to Aβ42. Moreover, monomers adopted the aggregation-prone conformations present in amyloid fibrils. The low energy barriers between these conformations facilitate the transition between monomer states and is another factor promoting the self-association of the monomers.
Oncogenetic Landscape Of Lymphomagenesis In Coeliac Disease
Authors: Cording Sascha , Lhermitte Ludovic , Malamut Georgia , Berrabah Sofia , Trinquand Amélie , Guegan Nicolas , Villarese Patrick , Kaltenbach Sophie , Meresse Bertrand , Khater Sherine , Dussiot Michael , Bras Marc , Cheminant Morgane , Tesson Bruno , Bole-Feysot Christine , Bruneau Julie , Molina Thierry Jo , Sibon David , Macintyre Elizabeth , Hermine Olivier , Cellier Christophe , Asnafi Vahid , Cerf-Bensussan Nadine
Published: September 2020

Objective

Enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma (EATL) is a rare but severe complication of celiac disease (CeD), often preceded by low-grade clonal intraepithelial lymphoproliferation, referred to as type II refractory CeD (RCDII). Knowledge on underlying oncogenic mechanisms remains scarce. Here, we analysed and compared the mutational landscape of RCDII and EATL in order to identify genetic drivers of CeD-associated lymphomagenesis.

Design

Pure populations of RCDII-cells derived from intestinal biopsies (n=9) or sorted from blood (n=2) were analysed by whole exome sequencing, comparative genomic hybridization and RNA-sequencing. Biopsies from RCDII (n=50), EATL (n=19), type I refractory CeD (n=7) and uncomplicated CeD (n=7) were analysed by targeted next-generation sequencing. Moreover, functional in vitro studies and drug testing were performed in RCDII-derived cell lines.

Results

80% of RCDII and 90% of EATL displayed somatic gain-of-functions mutations in the JAK1-STAT3 pathway, including a remarkable p.G1097 hotspot mutation in the JAK1 kinase-domain in approximately 50% of cases. Other recurrent somatic events were deleterious mutations in NFκB-regulatorsTNFAIP3andTNIP3and potentially oncogenic mutations inTET2, KMT2DandDDX3X. JAK1 inhibitors and the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib could block survival and proliferation of malignant RCDII-cell lines.

Conclusion

Mutations activating the JAK1-STAT3 pathway appear to be the main drivers of CeD-associated lymphomagenesis. In concert with mutations in negative regulators of NFκB, they may favour the clonal emergence of malignant lymphocytes in the cytokine-rich coeliac intestine. The identified mutations are attractive therapeutic targets to treat RCDII and block progression towards EATL.
Dopamine D2 receptors modulate the cholinergic pause and inhibitory learning
Authors: Gallo Eduardo F. , Greenwald Julia , Teboul Eric , Martyniuk Kelly M. , Li Yulong , Javitch Jonathan A. , Balsam Peter D. , Kellendonk Christoph
Published: September 2020

Cholinergic interneurons (CINs) in the striatum respond to salient stimuli with a multiphasic response, including a pause, in neuronal activity. Slice physiology experiments have shown the importance of dopamine D2 receptors (D2Rs) in regulating CIN pausing yet the behavioral significance of the CIN pause and its regulation by dopaminein vivois still unclear. Here, we show that D2R upregulation in CINs of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) lengthens the pause in CIN activityex vivoand enlarges a stimulus-evoked decrease in acetylcholine (ACh) levels during behavior. This enhanced dip in ACh levels is associated with a selective deficit in the learning to inhibit responding in a Go/No-Go task. Our data demonstrate, therefore, the importance of CIN D2Rs in modulating the CIN response induced by salient stimuli and points to a role of the pause in inhibitory learning. This work has important implications for brain disorders with altered striatal dopamine and ACh function, including schizophrenia and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Control of β-glucan exposure by the endo-1,3-glucanase Eng1 inCandida albicansmodulates virulence
Authors: Yang Mengli , Solis Norma V. , Marshall Michaela , Garleb Rachel , Zhou Tingting , Wang Daidong , Swidergall Marc , Pearlman Eric , Filler Scott G. , Liu Haoping
Published: September 2020

Candida albicansis a major cause of invasive candidiasis, which has a high mortality rate. The hyphal form ofC. albicansis virulent and activates the host innate immune response, while the yeast form is hypovirulent and less immunogenic. The innate immune response is critical for host defense, but overactivation can cause tissue damage and sepsis. The innate immune response can be triggered when the C-type lectin receptor Dectin-1 recognizes β-glucans, which is protected by the outer mannan layer of the cell wall onC. albicans. Here, we demonstrate that there is low level of Dectin-1 binding at the septum of yeast cells, but high level of Dectin-1 binding over the entire surface of hyphae. We find that β-glucan masking in yeast is controlled by two highly expressed yeast proteins, the endo-1,3-β-glucanase Eng1 and the Yeast Wall Protein Ywp1. Aneng1deletion mutant shows enhanced Dectin-1 binding at the septa, while aneng1 ywp1double mutant, but not anywp1single mutant, shows strong overall Dectin-1 binding. Thus, Eng1-mediated β-glucan trimming and Ywp1-mediated β-glucan masking are two parallel mechanisms utilized byC. albicansyeast to minimize recognition by Dectin-1. In the model of disseminated candidiasis, mice infected with theeng1deletion mutant showed delayed mortality with an increased renal immune response in males compared to mice infected with the wild-type strain, but earlier mortality with a higher renal immune response in females. Using theeng1mutant that is specifically defective in β-glucan masking in yeast, this study demonstrates that the level of β-glucan exposure is important for modulating the balance between immune protection and immunopathogenesis.

Abstract Importance

Candida albicansis a major opportunistic fungal pathogen of humans. Systemic Candidiasis has high mortality rates.C. albicansis also a constituent of the human microbiome and found in gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of most healthy individuals.C. albicansis able to switch reversibly between yeast and hyphae in response to environmental cues. The hyphal form is virulent, while the yeast form is hypovirulent and less immunogenic. This study demonstrates that β-glucan exposure in yeast is protected by two highly expressed yeast proteins, the endo-1,3-β-glucanase Eng1 and the Yeast Wall Protein Ywp1. Eng1-mediated β-glucan trimming and Ywp1-mediated β-glucan masking are two parallel mechanisms utilized byC. albicansyeast to minimize recognition by the host C-type lectin receptor Dectin-1. Theeng1mutant triggers a higher immune response and leads to earlier mortality compared to the wild-type strain. Thus, β-glucan masking in yeast keeps yeast cells less immunogenic and hypovirulent.
Performances of targeted RNA-sequencing for the analysis of fusion transcripts, gene mutation and expression in haematological malignancies
Authors: Hayette Sandrine , Grange Béatrice , Vallee Maxime , Bardel Claire , Huet Sarah , Mosnier Isabelle , Chabane Kaddour , Simonet Thomas , Balsat Marie , Heiblig Maël , Tigaud Isabelle , Nicolini Franck E. , Mareschal Sylvain , Salles Gilles , Sujobert Pierre
Published: September 2020

RNA sequencing holds great promise to improve the diagnostic of haematological malignancies, because this technique enables to detect fusion transcripts, to look for somatic mutations in oncogenes, and to capture transcriptomic signatures nosological entities. However, the analytical performances of targeted RNA sequencing have not been extensively described in diagnostic samples. Using a targeted panel of 1385 cancer-related genes in a series of 100 diagnosis samples and 8 controls, we detected all the already known fusion transcripts, and also discovered unknown and/or unsuspected fusion transcripts in 12 samples. Regarding the analysis of transcriptomic profiles, we show that targeted RNA sequencing is performant to discriminate acute lymphoblastic leukemia entities driven by different oncogenic translocations. Additionally, we show that 86% of the mutations identified at the DNA level are also detectable at the mRNA level, except for nonsense mutations which are subjected to mRNA decay. We conclude that targeted RNA sequencing might improve the diagnosis of haematological malignancies. Standardization of the preanalytical steps and further refinements of the panel design and of the bioinformatical pipelines will be an important step towards its use in standard diagnostic procedures.
Cytoprotective effects of combination of gypenosides andCostus pictusD.Don extract in BRIN-BD11 β-cells
Authors: Patibandla Chinmai , Campbell Mark James , Bennett Leigh Ann , Shu Xinhua , Patterson Steven
Published: September 2020

Ethnopharmacological Relevance

Gypenosides andCostus pictusD.Don are used as an anti-diabetic herbal remedy in China and India respectively. However, the synergistic effect of these two extracts on β-cell protection is not yet elucidated.

Introduction

In Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), pro-inflammatory cytokines and lipotoxicity are known causes of pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and impaired insulin secretion and eventually β-cell death. Thus, any cytoprotective drug supplements can protect the β-cell and may help in T2DM treatment. Gypenosides, extracted from the Chinese medicinal herbGynostemma pentaphyllumand the leaf extract from an Indian medicinal herbCostus pictusD. Don are used in traditional medicine due to their insulin secretory properties. In our previous studies, both extracts have shown significant cytoprotective effects in insulin-secreting BRIN-BD11 cells. In the present study, we aim to investigate the synergistic effects of a combination of these extracts on BRIN-BD11 β-cell protection.

Methods

Combination of extracts was prepared by adding Gypenosides withCostus pictusat 2:1 to a concentration of 18.75mg/ml. Cell viability was determined by MTT assay following treatment with combination and/or palmitate and cytokine cocktail for 24-48h. Following 24h treatment, proliferation was measured by Ki67 staining and cytoprotective gene expression was quantified by qPCR.

Results

Combination treatment of 25µg/ml enhanced cell viability both at 24h (n=8; P<0.05) and 48h (n=8; P<0.0001) treatment. Over 24h, combination treatment (25&12.5 µg/ml) showed a significant protective effect against 125µM and 250µM palmitate induced (P<0.0001) and cytokine cocktail-(TNFα 1000U, IL-1β 50U & IFNγ 1000U) (P<0.0001 & P<0.01 respectively) induced toxicity. Combination treatment over 24h increased expression of antioxidant genes Nrf2 (P<0.001), Cat (P<0.001) and Sod1 (P<0.05) along with pro-proliferative Erk1 (P<0.01) while pro-inflammatory Nfkb1 expression was reduced(P<0.001).

Conclusion

The results suggest that a combination of gypenosides andcostus pictusmay protect β-cells against inflammatory cytokines and lipotoxicity caused by saturated free fatty acids associated with obesity and diabetes.
Net atomic charges, electric moments, and sign and magnitude of optical rotatory power in α-TeO2 at 296 K
Authors: Karppinen M.
Published: September 2020

Optical activity is determined from a point charge model in one enantiomorph of a chiral and semiconducting α-TeO2 crystal. Net atomic charges of Te and O atoms are iterated and electric moments derived. Second electric moments in the principal axis directions are calculated and their ratio is fitted by comparison with the corresponding ratio of the optical refraction indices. The components of the axial vectors are calculated and converted to the gyration tensor components. The optical rotatory power in the positive direction of the optic axis is determined, and the sense of optical rotation is defined from transformations of polar vectors of first rank of the TeO2 groups and visually confirmed in both enantiomorphs.
A motivational theory perspective on entrepreneurial intentions: a gender comparative study
Authors: Arshad Muhammad , Farooq Mariam , Atif Muhammad , Farooq Omer
Published: September 2020

Purpose

This study aims to analyze individuals’ entrepreneurial intentions from the perspective of motivational theory and examines the effects of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on entrepreneurial intentions of male and female individuals.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from students graduating from Pakistan’s largest university. A structural equation modeling technique was used for model testing.

Findings

Intrinsic factors such as intrinsic interest and community feeling aspiration and extrinsic factors such as perceived relative income and occupational prestige positively affect attitudes and, in turn, stimulate entrepreneurial intentions. Further, as intrinsic interest and perceived relative income scored higher among men, gender moderates those effects. Conversely, the entrepreneurial attitudes of women were primarily driven by community feeling aspiration. Notably, the positive effect of occupational prestige did not vary among men and women.

Originality/value

This paper explores the roles of intrinsic and extrinsic factors in the entrepreneurial intentions of men and women. The integration of motivational theory with gender provides insights into the determinants of entrepreneurial intentions in South Asia.
Promoting tacit knowledge application and integration through guanxi and structural holes
Authors: Liu Jiayuan , Zhu Yilin
Published: September 2020

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impacts of structural holes (SH) and guanxi and their interaction on the application and integration of tacit knowledge among co-workers in inter-organizational arrangements.

Design/methodology/approach

The relationships were examined using a mixed-methods research approach through 305 questionnaires and 50 interviews collected from a university and a pharmaceutical company in China.

Findings

SH hinders the application and integration of tacit knowledge, while guanxi promotes these latter. In addition, guanxi moderates the negative impact of SH on tacit knowledge application (TKA) and tacit knowledge integration (TKI).

Research limitations/implications

By developing a framework to identify how co-workers strategically leverage their guanxi and SH to facilitate TKA and TKI, this study identifies the key factors that drive these latter in complex inter-organizational arrangements, contributing to the literature on knowledge management. In addition, the study makes a contribution to the advancement of SH theory by comparing guanxi with other social relationships in terms of their application to SH in different cultures, and recognizing the cultural contingencies that condition the effect of SH on knowledge management performance, thereby generating an important implication for the identification of the different roles that structural-hole owners play in brokerage situations. Finally, by comparing the difference between guanxi and interpersonal relationships in Chinese culture, this study provides a reasonable explanation for guanxi’s moderating effect on SH.

Practical implications

By uncovering the significance of guanxi cultivation with individuals who occupy yet-to-be-filled SH to make them more committed to the network, this study seeks to provide organizational leaders with helpful suggestions for the creation of incentives to fill SH.

Originality/value

By developing a framework to identify how co-workers strategically leverage their guanxi and SH to facilitate TKA and TKI, this study provides a theoretically defensible and empirically supported solution to the problems experienced by co-workers in applying and integrating tacit knowledge effectively in complex inter-organizational arrangements.
The impact of the sonic logo’s acoustic features on orienting responses, emotions and brand personality transmission
Authors: Mas Lluis , Bolls Paul , Rodero Emma , Barreda-Ángeles Miguel , Churchill Ashley
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine how sonic logo’s acoustic features (intensity, pitch and pace) based on melodic tunes with no voice orient the response of consumers, attract attention, elicit levels of pleasantness and calmness and transmit brand personality traits.

Design/methodology/approach

A within-subject experimental factorial design is applied to measure emotional arousal (indexed as electrodermal activity) and enhancement on perceptual processing (indexed as heart rate), as well as self-reported factors, namely, calmness/excitement, pleasantness and brand personality scales.

Findings

Results show a significant increase on electrodermal activity associated with fast-paced sonic logos and a decrease in heart rate in slow-paced long sonic logos. Also, fade-up, pitch-ascending fast sonic logos are defined as more exciting and descending-pitch sonic logos as more pleasant.

Research limitations/implications

The use of sonic logos with no voice does limit its implications. Besides, the use of three variables simultaneously with 18 versions of sonic logos in a laboratory setting may have driven participants to fatigue; hence, findings should be cautiously applied.

Practical implications

First, sonic logos are best processed in a fade-up form. Second, fast pace is recommended to orient response, whereas slow pace is recommended to transmit calmness. Practitioners may opt for fast-paced sonic logos if the design is new or played in a noisy environment and opt for slow-paced sonic logos in already highly recognized sound designs.

Originality/value

To the best of authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to combine psychophysiological measures and self-reported scales in a laboratory experiment on how sonic logo’s acoustic features orient response, transmit emotions and personality traits.
The effect of materials and design on the reliability of through-glass vias for 2.5 D integrated circuits: a numerical study
Authors: Ahmed Omar , Okoro Chukwudi , Pollard Scott , Jiang Tengfei
Published: September 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the factors responsible for substrate cracking reliability problem in through-glass vias (TGVs), which are critical components for glass-based 2.5 D integration.

Design/methodology/approach

Numerical models were used to examine the driving force for substrate cracking in glass interposers due to stress coupling during heating. An analytical solution was used to demonstrate how the energy release rate (ERR) for the glass substrate cracking is affected by the via design and the mismatch in thermal strain. Then, the numerical models were implemented to investigate the design factors effects, such as the pitch distance, via diameter, via pattern, via design, effect from a stress buffer layer and the interposer materials selection on the susceptibility to substrate cracking.

Findings

ERR for substrate cracking was found to be directly proportional to the via diameter and the thermal mismatch strain. When a via pattern is implemented for high-density integration, a coupling in the stress fields was identified. This coupling effect was found to depend on the pitch distance, the position of the vias, and the via arrangement, suggesting a via pattern-dependent reliability behavior for glass interposers. Changing the design of the via to an annular shape or a substrate-cored via was found to be a promising approach to reduce the susceptibility to substrate cracking compared to a fully filled solid via. Also, the use of a stress buffer layer, an encouraging design prospect presented for the first time for TGVs in this study, was found to significantly reduce cracking. Finally, alternative via and substrate materials showed lower tendency for substrate cracking, indicating that the reliability of glass interposers can be further enhanced with the implementation of such new materials.

Originality/value

This study signifies the first attempt to comprehensively evaluate the susceptibility to crack formation in glass interposers during heating. Therefore, this study provides new perspectives on how to achieve a significant potential reliability improvement for TGVs.
Toward digitalization in the construction industry with immersive and drones technologies: a critical literature review
Authors: Elghaish Faris , Matarneh Sandra , Talebi Saeed , Kagioglou Michail , Hosseini M. Reza , Abrishami Sepehr
Published: September 2020

Purpose

In this study, a critical literature review was utilized in order to provide a clear review of the relevant existing studies. The literature was analyzed using the meta-synthesis technique to evaluate and integrate the findings in a single context.

Design/methodology/approach

Digital transformation in construction requires employing a wide range of various technologies. There is significant progress of research in adopting technologies such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones, and immersive technologies in the construction industry over the last two decades. The purpose of this research is to assess the current status of employing UAVs and immersive technologies toward digitalizing the construction industry and highlighting the potential applications of these technologies, either individually or in combination and integration with each other.

Findings

The key findings are: (1) UAVs in conjunction with 4D building information modeling (BIM) can be used to assess the project progress and compliance checking of geometric design models, (2) immersive technologies can be used to enable controlling construction projects remotely, applying/checking end users’ requirements, construction education and team collaboration.

Practical implications

A detailed discussion around the application of UAVs and immersive technologies is provided. This is expected to support gaining an in-depth understanding of the practical applications of these technologies in the industry.

Originality/value

The review contributes a needed common basis for capturing progress made in UAVs and immersive technologies to date and assessing their impact on construction projects. Moreover, this paper opens a new horizon for novice researchers who will conduct research toward digitalized construction.
Behavioural and emotional disturbances associated with sleep‐disordered breathing symptomatology in children with Down's syndrome
Authors: McConnell E. J. , Hill E. A. , Celmiņa M. , Kotoulas S. ‐ C. , Riha R. L.
Published: September 2020

Background

Down's syndrome (DS) predisposes to sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB). In children with DS, behavioural and emotional disturbances secondary to SDB are often assumed to result from cognitive impairment alone. Our aim was to explore the relationship of behavioural and emotional disturbances with SDB in a population of children with DS.

Methods

A modified sleep questionnaire, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Paediatric ESS and the short form of the developmental behaviour checklist (DBC‐P24) were sent to 261 carers of children aged 4 to 15 years with DS in 2012.

Results

Of 120 participants, 25% had probable SDB. In children with probable SDB compared to those without nocturnal symptoms, the total behaviour problem score (TBPS) was significantly higher (20.3 ± 8.6/48 vs. 12 ± 7.5/48; P = 0.002) as was the PaedESS (7.7 ± 5.6/24 vs. 2.8 ± 3.5/24; P = 0.002). For every increase in frequency of choking attacks, snoring and night awakenings, the TBPS increased by 1.37, 1.28 and 1.75 points, respectively, indicating worsening behaviour. The TBPS was found to decrease by 1.31 points for every hour more of self‐reported sleep duration (r = −0.25, P = 0.017).

Conclusions

SDB symptoms and shorter self‐reported sleep duration are highly prevalent among children with DS and are independently associated with worsening behaviour using the TBPS.
Why it's time for Doughnut Economics
Authors: Raworth Kate
Published: September 2020

Economics needs a new mindset to be fit for tackling this century's social and ecological challenges. The Doughnut of social and planetary boundaries offers a compass for those seeking to achieve this.
Effectiveness of second mating in sperm-depleted females in the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Authors: Morita Akimasa , Ullah Mohammad Shaef , Sera Tatsuya , Gotoh Tetsuo
Published: September 2020

Conspecific males often disturb copulating mites, thus interrupting the mating and a subsequent mating may occur. However, in natural populations of Tetranychus urticae, virgin or sperm-depleted females exist (3.2% of the females in a population) and a second mating may occur when these females are placed with males of unknown age. How does multiple mating benefit the fitness of T. urticae females? To answer this question and to establish the success of re-mating, we investigated the effects of mating interruption at various time intervals after the start on the validity of fertilization. Female offspring ratios were significantly lower if mating was interrupted at 30, 60 or 90 s, compared with complete (undisturbed) mating. Females accepted the second mating if they could not obtain sufficient sperm from the first mating owing to interruption. The success of the second mating and priority of the second male’s sperm depended on how soon the interruption of the first mating occurred. Proportion of females produced female offspring of the second males when mated at 6 days after the first mating was fewer than those when mated just after the first mating. To know the effect of males of unknown age, of which some were assumed to be sperm-depleted, we used them as the first mating partner and then used virgin males as the second mating partner. Three females (6.4%, n = 47) who mated with males of unknown age at the first mating, produced female offspring of the second males, but no females produced female offspring of the second males when mated with virgin males at the first mating. These findings indicate that sperm depletion, caused by mating interruption or paternal age in the first mating, might indeed affect the fertilizing ability.
Soil mite (Acari, Mesostigmata) biomass, species richness and diversity in soil and decayed logs of European Beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) forests

Authors: Kamczyc Jacek , Szemis Daniel , Urbanowski Cezary K. , Malica Jacek , Pers-kamczyc Emilia
Published: September 2020

The European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) is a dominant tree species in European forests and it has a huge ecological significance and high economic value. Due to its large dimensions, it can produce large amounts of decayed wood (CWD) which may be critical for maintaining the population of many rare species including mites. Many studies focused on mite (Mesostigmata) abundance, species richness, or diversity in CWD, however, our knowledge on mite biomass is still scarce. Therefore, the main aim of that study was to recognize the Mesostigmata biomass in logs and adjacent soil. In total, 90 samples (125 cm3, 5 cm depth) were collected from European beech logs and soil with litter thickness. Soil samples were collected from ecotone zone (soil near the log) and further three distances—0.5 m, 1.0 m, 1.5 m away from the log. Body length and width were measured for each individual of rare species and in the case of common species at least for 10 individuals. Our study revealed the highest mite biomass in CWD and soil near to the log (ecotone). Total male biomass was the highest in CWD and differed significantly from all other soil microhabitats. Female biomass did not differ between soil and CWD, whereas deutonymphs biomass differed between CWD and soil 1.0 m away from the log. Mean abundance, species richness, and diversity did not differ between the microhabitats. Decaying logs were dominated by Janietella pulchella whereas soil by Veigaia nemorensis. In conclusion, decayed European beech logs maintain the highest male and deutonymph biomass when compared to adjacent soil. Beech logs are important microhabitats for Mesostigmata mite communities, where they reached the highest abundance.
The scattering of sound by objects with dynamic deformations
Authors: Wang Yao-Ting
Published: September 2020

In this article, a sonic scattering problem of arbitrarily shaped, time-varying rigid surfaces is analytically solved by exploiting perturbation theory. The results demonstrate multi-frequency scattering characteristics resulting from a single moving object and the nonreciprocity from spinning components. The proposed approach is numerically verified, from audio through to ultrasonic frequencies, by full-wave simulation based on the finite-element method. This numerical simulation also validates the non-reciprocal phenomenon in such systems. In addition, the theory for multiple Floquet scattering of sound is built, which lays the foundation for advanced studies relevant to Floquet phononic crystals and novel time-varying sonic devices.
Improving hearing-aid gains based on automatic speech recognition
Authors: Fontan Lionel , Le Coz Maxime , Azzopardi Charlotte , Stone Michael A. , Füllgrabe Christian
Published: September 2020

This study provides proof of concept that automatic speech recognition (ASR) can be used to improve hearing aid (HA) fitting. A signal-processing chain consisting of a HA simulator, a hearing-loss simulator, and an ASR system normalizing the intensity of input signals was used to find HA-gain functions yielding the highest ASR intelligibility scores for individual audiometric profiles of 24 listeners with age-related hearing loss. Significantly higher aided speech intelligibility scores and subjective ratings of speech pleasantness were observed when the participants were fitted with ASR-established gains than when fitted with the gains recommended by the CAM2 fitting rule.
The Role of Myofascial Release in Treating Patients with Tension-Type Headaches: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Khan Irfan A. , Henderson Kelley
Published: September 2020

Clinical Question: What is the efficacy of myofascial release, combined with trigger point therapy, in treating pain in patients with tension-type headaches? Clinical Bottom Line: There is significant evidence to support the use of myofascial release and trigger point therapy in patients with pain from tension-type headaches.
Eleven Years’ Monitoring of the World’s Most Successful Male Biathlete of the Last Decade
Authors: Schmitt Laurent , Bouthiaux Stéphane , Millet Grégoire P.
Published: September 2020

Purpose: To report the changes in the training characteristics, performance, and heart-rate variability (HRV) of the world’s most successful male biathlete of the last decade. Method: During the analyzed 11-year (2009–2019) period, the participant won 7 big crystal globes, corresponding to the winner of the International Biathlon Union World Cup. The training characteristics are reported as yearly volume (in hours) of low-intensity training (LIT), moderate- and high-intensity training, and speed and strength training. Performance was quantified by the number of World Cup top-3 positions per season. HRV was expressed as low- and high-frequency spectral power (in milliseconds squared), root-mean-square difference of successive R–R interval (in milliseconds), and heart rate (in beats per minute). Results: The training volume increased from 530 to ∼700 hours per year in 2009–2019, with a large polarization in training intensity distribution (ie, LIT 86.3% [2.9%]; moderate-intensity training 3.4% [1.5%]; high-intensity training 4.0% [0.7%]; strength 6.3% [1.6%]). The number of top-3 positions increased from 2 to 24–26 in 2009–2018 but decreased to 6 in 2019. The mean supine values in the root-mean-square difference of successive R–R interval and high-frequency spectral power divided by heart rate increased until 2015, which were stable over 2016–2018 but decreased in 2019. The number of top-3 positions was related to the total (r = .66, P = .02) and LIT (r = .92, P < .001) volume and to several markers of supine parasympathetic activity. Conclusion: The improvement in performance of the participant was mainly determined by the progressive increase in training volume, especially performed at low intensity, and was correlated to parasympathetic activity markers. This case study confirms the effectiveness of the training method, with a large amount of LIT in an elite endurance athlete, and of regular HRV monitoring.
Perspectives on the Feldenkrais Method
Authors: Russell Roger
Published: September 2020

Developmental movement unfolds across multiple levels of a person’s biological hierarchy, and in multiple time frames. This article addresses some of the complexity of human moving, learning, and development that is captured in the lessons of the Feldenkrais Method®. It provides an overview of who Moshe Feldenkrais was and how he synthesized a body of work characterized by ontological, epistemological, and ethical stances that make his method unusual and provocative. An overview of his group and individual lessons, with examples, is followed by a closer look at how the complexity of the Feldenkrais method can be understood.
Soccer, CTE, and the Cultural Representation of Dementia
Authors: Malcolm Dominic
Published: September 2020

This article deploys a qualitative media content analysis to examine discourses linking sport, head injury, and longer term neurocognitive decline. It draws on a seminal British television documentary and associated print media coverage to demonstrate that the representation of sport-related brain injury is intricately connected to both conceptions of risk in sport and a wider social response to aging and dementia. The article augments existing North American analyses to provide the first cross-cultural comparison of this phenomenon and, in doing so, illustrates how the social prominence of cultural representations of sport-related brain injury relates in part to the distinct characteristics of the sport-related phenomenon, which extend and amplify both the broader cultural crisis of concussion in sport and existing representations of dementia. The study is therefore important because it provides a unique perspective on both a key contemporary sporting issue and this global health concern.
Sport Biofeedback: Exploring Implications and Limitations of Its Use
Authors: Nelson Ferguson Kendra , Hall Craig
Published: September 2020

Biofeedback is among the various self-regulation techniques that mental performance consultants can utilize in their practice with athletes. Biofeedback produces psychophysiological assessments in real time to enhance awareness of thoughts and emotions. Quantitatively, research shows that biofeedback can facilitate self-regulation, allowing an athlete to gain control over psychophysiological responses that could be detrimental to performance. With technology becoming a widespread tool in monitoring psychophysiological states, an exploration of consultants’ use of biofeedback, their perceptions of effectiveness, and limitations of their use was warranted to qualitatively evaluate efficiency of the tool. A qualitative descriptive approach was taken through semistructured interviews with 10 mental performance consultants. Inductive reasoning uncovered three themes: positive implications, practical limitations, and equipment options. With biofeedback, athletes have the ability to develop a deeper level of self-awareness and thereby facilitate the use of self-regulation strategies intended for optimal performance states and outcomes.
The Development of a Behavior Checklist for Mentally Tough Behaviors in Volleyball
Authors: Madrigal Leilani
Published: September 2020

Mental toughness is a factor related to performance, better coping, and increased confidence. There has been a growing trend toward assessing mental toughness behaviorally. The purpose of this paper was to develop a behavioral assessment of mental toughness in volleyball. Following a five-stage process to develop a systematic observation instrument, the current study identified 10 mental toughness behaviors in volleyball, specifically, six behaviors occurring during a play and four behaviors after a play (i.e., when a point is scored from the opposing team). Furthermore, eight behaviors represent mentally tough actions, while two behaviors represent mentally weak actions. The results indicate that the behavioral checklist is a reliable systematic observation instrument. Coaches and certified mental performance consultants can benefit from using this checklist by discussing mental toughness and behaviors corresponding to mental toughness during game play, and then have a quantifiable way to track behaviors with individuals and volleyball teams.
Metagenomic Analysis of the Virome of Mosquito Excreta
Authors: Ramírez Ana L. , Colmant Agathe M. G. , Warrilow David , Huang Bixing , Pyke Alyssa T. , McMahon Jamie L. , Meyer Dagmar B. , Graham Rikki M. A. , Jennison Amy V. , Ritchie Scott A. , van den Hurk Andrew F.
Published: September 2020

When a mosquito feeds on a host, it ingests not only its blood meal but also an assortment of microorganisms that are present in the blood, thus acting as an environmental sampler. By using specific tests, it is possible to detect arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) like dengue and West Nile viruses in mosquito excreta. Here, we explored the use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) for unbiased detection of RNA viruses present in excreta from experimentally infected and field-collected mosquitoes. We have demonstrated that mosquito excreta provide a suitable template for NGS and that it is possible to recover and assemble near-full-length genomes of both arboviruses and insect-borne viruses, including potentially novel ones. These results importantly show the direct practicality of the use of mosquito excreta for NGS, which in the future could be used for virus discovery, environmental virome sampling, and arbovirus surveillance.
Binding of Leishmania infantum Lipophosphoglycan to the Midgut Is Not Sufficient To Define Vector Competence in
Lutzomyia longipalpis
Sand Flies
Authors: Coutinho-Abreu Iliano V. , Oristian James , de Castro Waldionê , Wilson Timothy R. , Meneses Claudio , Soares Rodrigo P. , Borges Valéria M. , Descoteaux Albert , Kamhawi Shaden , Valenzuela Jesus G.
Published: September 2020

It is well established that the presence of LPG is sufficient to define the vector competence of restrictive sand fly vectors with respect to
Leishmania
parasites. However, the permissiveness of other sand flies with respect to multiple
Leishmania
species suggests that other factors might define vector competence for these vectors. In this study, we investigated the underpinnings of
Leishmania infantum
survival and development in its natural vector,
Lutzomyia longipalpis
. We found that LPG-mediated midgut binding persists in late-stage parasites. This observation is of relevance for the understanding of vector-parasite molecular interactions and suggests that only a subset of infective metacyclic-stage parasites (metacyclics) lose their ability to attach to the midgut, with implications for parasite transmission dynamics. However, our data also demonstrate that LPG is not a determining factor in
Leishmania infantum
retention in the midgut of
Lutzomyia longipalpis
, a permissive vector. Rather, LPG appears to be more important in protecting some parasite strains from the toxic environment generated during blood meal digestion in the insect gut. Thus, the relevance of LPG in parasite development in permissive vectors appears to be a complex issue and should be investigated on a strain-specific basis.
Use of CRISPR-Cas9 To Target Homologous Recombination Limits Transformation-Induced Genomic Changes in Candida albicans
Authors: Marton Timea , Maufrais Corinne , d’Enfert Christophe , Legrand Melanie
Published: September 2020

Genome editing is essential to nearly all research studies aimed at gaining insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying various biological processes, including those in the opportunistic pathogen
Candida albicans
. The adaptation of the CRISPR-Cas9 system greatly facilitates genome engineering in many organisms. However, our understanding of the effects of CRISPR-Cas9 technology on the biology of
C. albicans
is limited. In this study, we sought to compare the extents of transformation-induced genomic changes within strains engineered using CRISPR-Cas9-free and CRISPR-Cas9-dependent transformation methods. CRISPR-Cas9-dependent transformation allows one to simultaneously target both homologs and, importantly, appears less mutagenic in
C. albicans
, since strains engineered using CRISPR-Cas9 display an overall decrease in concomitant genomic changes.
Phosphorylation of
Toxoplasma gondii
Secreted Proteins during Acute and Chronic Stages of Infection
Authors: Young Joanna C. , Broncel Malgorzata , Teague Helena , Russell Matt R. G. , McGovern Olivia L. , Renshaw Matt , Frith David , Snijders Ambrosius P. , Collinson Lucy , Carruthers Vern B. , Ewald Sarah E. , Treeck Moritz
Published: September 2020

Toxoplasma gondii
is a common parasite that infects up to one-third of the human population. Initially, the parasite grows rapidly, infecting and destroying cells of the host, but subsequently switches to a slow-growing form and establishes chronic infection. In both stages, the parasite lives within a membrane-bound vacuole within the host cell, but in the chronic stage, a durable cyst wall is synthesized, which provides protection to the parasite during transmission to a new host.
Toxoplasma
secretes proteins into the vacuole to build its replicative niche, and previous studies identified many of these proteins as phosphorylated. We investigate two secreted proteins and show that a phosphorylated region plays an important role in their regulation in acute stages. We also observed widespread phosphorylation of secreted proteins when parasites convert from acute to chronic stages, providing new insight into how the cyst wall may be dynamically regulated.
Mimicry Embedding Facilitates Advanced Neural Network Training for Image-Based Pathogen Detection
Authors: Yakimovich Artur , Huttunen Moona , Samolej Jerzy , Clough Barbara , Yoshida Nagisa , Mostowy Serge , Frickel Eva-Maria , Mercer Jason
Published: September 2020

In biology, the use of deep neural networks (DNNs) for analysis of pathogen infection is hampered by a lack of large verified data sets needed for rapid network evolution. Artificial neural networks detect handwritten digits with high precision thanks to large data sets, such as MNIST, that allow nearly unlimited training. Here, we developed a novel strategy we call mimicry embedding, which allows artificial intelligence (AI)-based analysis of variable pathogen-host data sets. We show that deep learning can be used to detect and classify single pathogens based on small differences.
Supplemental Material: Estimating the contribution of tributary sand inputs to controlled flood deposits for sandbar restoration using elemental tracers, Colorado River, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Authors: Chapman Katherine A. , al. et
Published: September 2020

The mean reported concentration and standard error for all elemental XRF data and the proportion of total variance between Glen Canyon and Paria River sand populations explained by the first five principal components in each grain size.
Rare case of bilateral pleural effusion caused by pancreaticopleural fistula
Authors: Kull Ivana , Sottas Oriane , Zender Hervé , Hassan Galab
Published: September 2020

A 51-year-old man presented with dyspnoea and basithoracic pain. Chest X-ray revealed bilateral pleural effusion, which was managed by bilateral chest drain placement. The pleural fluid analysis showed elevated lipase. Subsequent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) demonstrated a large fistula from the tail of the main pancreatic duct to the left pleural space. Definitive treatment was accomplished with ERCP guided large pancreatic stents placement.
Case of calcific tricuspid and pulmonary valve stenosis
Authors: Sharma Yash Paul , Panda Prashant Kumar , Uppal Lipi , Debi Uma
Published: September 2020

Isolated right-sided valvular disease is a much less recognised entity when compared with left-sided valvular heart disease. Almost all the cases of combined pulmonary valve with tricuspid valve involvement are a consequence of underlying carcinoid heart disease. Moreover, severe calcification of tricuspid valve is an extremely unusual finding. We report a case of a severe calcific tricuspid valve stenosis along with severe pulmonary valve stenosis where the exact aetiology could not be established. On reviewing the literature, we did not find any reports describing such a morphology.
Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) associated with acute necrotising pancreatitis (ANP)
Authors: Kumaran Naren K , Karmakar Biraj K , Taylor Ormond M
Published: September 2020

Coronavirus is a severe infectious disease (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and has led to increased mortality worldwide. Multiple reports have been published citing that gastrointestinal symptoms are common in patients with COVID-19 infection. It has also been found that the ACE2 receptor of SARS-CoV-2 is expressed more in the pancreas than the lungs. Despite this, little attention has been paid to the extent and details of pancreatic injury caused by COVID-19. Lack of awareness regarding the COVID-19 status of patients presenting with pancreatitis may expose healthcare workers to SARS-CoV-2 while performing interventions to manage complications of pancreatitis such as necrosis. We report a case of COVID-19-induced acute necrotising pancreatitis in the absence of any known risk factors.