bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase detection limits in off-axis electron holography from pixelated detectors: gain variations, geometric distortion and failure of reference-hologram correction
Authors: Hÿtch Martin , Gatel Christophe
Published: July 2020

We investigate the effect that recording off-axis electron holograms on pixelated detectors, such as charge-coupled devices (CCD) and direct-detection devices (DDD), can have on measured amplitudes and phases. Theory will be developed for the case of perfectly uniform interference fringes illuminating an imperfect detector with gain variations and pixel displacements. We will show that both these types of defect produce a systematic noise in the phase images that depends on the position of the holographic fringes with respect to the detector. Subtracting a reference hologram from the object hologram will therefore not remove the phase noise if the initial phases of the two holograms do not coincide exactly. Another finding is that pi-shifted holograms are much less affected by gain variations but show no improvement concerning geometric distortions. The resulting phase errors will be estimated and simulations presented that confirm the theoretical developments.
Transnasal flow reduction in endovascular treatment for anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Kawabata Shuhei , Nakamura Hajime , Nishida Takeo , Takagaki Masatoshi , Izutsu Nobuyuki , Takenaka Tomofumi , Terada Eisaku , Oshino Satoru , Kishima Haruhiko
Published: July 2020

Transarterial embolization (TAE) is a useful option for anterior cranial fossa–dural arteriovenous fistula (ACF–dAVF) as endovascular devices have progressed. Liquid agents are usually injected via a microcatheter positioned just proximal to the shunt pouch beyond the ophthalmic artery; however, high blood flow from the internal maxillary artery (IMA) often impedes penetration of embolic materials into the shunt pouch. Therefore, reducing blood flow from the IMA before embolization can increase the success rate. In the present case, to reduce blood flow from branches of the IMA, we inserted surgical gauze infiltrated with xylocaine and epinephrine into bilateral nasal cavities. Using this method, we achieved curative TAE with minimal damage to the nasal mucosa. Transnasal flow reduction is an easy, effective and minimally invasive method. This method should be considered in the endovascular treatment of ACF–dAVF, especially in patients with high blood flow from theIMA.
Spatially resolving the chemical composition of the planet building blocks
Authors: Matter A , Pignatale F C , Lopez B
Published: July 2020

The inner regions of protoplanetary discs (from ∼0.1 to 10 au) are the expected birthplace of planets, especially telluric. In those high-temperature regions, solids can experience cyclical annealing, vapourisation, and recondensation. Hot and warm dusty grains emit mostly in the infrared domain, notably in N-band (8–13 μm). Studying their fine chemistry through mid-infrared spectro-interferometry with the new Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI) instrument Multi AperTure mid-Infrared SpectroScopic Experiment (MATISSE), which can spatially resolve these regions, requires detailed dust chemistry models. Using radiative transfer, we derived infrared spectra of a fiducial static protoplanetary disc model with different inner-disc (<1 au) dust compositions. The latter were derived from condensation sequences computed at local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) for three initial C/O ratios: subsolar (C/O = 0.4), solar (C/O = 0.54), and supersolar (C/O = 1). The three scenarios return very different N-band spectra, especially when considering the presence of sub-micron-sized dust grains. MATISSE should be able to detect these differences and trace the associated sub-au-scale radial changes. We propose a first interpretation of N-band ‘inner-disc’ spectra obtained with the former VLTI instrument MID-infrared Interferometric instrument (MIDI) on three Herbig stars (HD 142527, HD 144432, HD 163296) and one T Tauri star (AS 209). Notably, we could associate a supersolar (‘carbon-rich’) composition for HD 142527 and a subsolar (‘oxygen-rich’) one for HD 1444432. We show that the inner-disc mineralogy can be very specific and not related to the dust composition derived from spatially unresolved mid-infrared spectroscopy. We highlight the need for including more complex chemistry when interpreting solid-state spectroscopic observations of the inner regions of discs, and for considering dynamical aspects for future studies.
Cloud–cloud collision as drivers of the chemical complexity in Galactic Centre molecular clouds
Authors: Zeng S , Zhang Q , Jiménez-Serra I , Tercero B , Lu X , Martín-Pintado J , de Vicente P , Rivilla V M , Li S
Published: July 2020

G+0.693-0.03 is a quiescent molecular cloud located within the Sagittarius B2 (Sgr B2) star-forming complex. Recent spectral surveys have shown that it represents one of the most prolific repositories of complex organic species in the Galaxy. The origin of such chemical complexity, along with the small-scale physical structure and properties of G+0.693-0.03, remains a mystery. In this paper, we report the study of multiple molecules with interferometric observations in combination with single-dish data in G+0.693-0.03. Despite the lack of detection of continuum source, we find small-scale (0.2 pc) structures within this cloud. The analysis of the molecular emission of typical shock tracers such as SiO, HNCO, and CH3OH unveiled two molecular components, peaking at velocities of 57 and 75 km s−1. They are found to be interconnected in both space and velocity. The position–velocity diagrams show features that match with the observational signatures of a cloud–cloud collision. Additionally, we detect three series of class I methanol masers known to appear in shocked gas, supporting the cloud–cloud collision scenario. From the maser emission we provide constraints on the gas kinetic temperatures (∼30–150 K) and H2 densities (104–105 cm−2). These properties are similar to those found for the starburst galaxy NGC 253 also using class I methanol masers, suggested to be associated with a cloud–cloud collision. We conclude that shocks driven by the possible cloud–cloud collision is likely the most important mechanism responsible for the high level of chemical complexity observed in G+0.693-0.03.
Laboratory formation and photochemistry of covalently bonded polycyclic aromatic nitrogen heterocycle (PANH) clusters in the gas phase
Authors: Yang Yuanyuan , Hu Xiaoyi , Zhang Deping , Zhang Weiwei , Liu Guilin , Zhen Junfeng
Published: July 2020

To examine the evolution processes of the nitrogen-containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) molecules occurring in interstellar environments, in this work we focus on the formation of large covalently bonded N-substituted polyaromatic species and their photochemistry behaviour in the gas phase. The experimental results show large PANH (e.g. DC/acridine and DC/phenazine) cluster cations formed in a chemical reaction between large PAH (e.g. dicoronylene, DC, C48H20) cations and small PANHs (e.g. acridine, C13H9N, or phenazine, C12H8N2) by gas-phase condensation through ion–molecule reactions. With laser irradiation, PANH cluster cations are involved in a complex photofragmentation process (e.g. dehydrogenation, HCN/CN, C2 or N2 units lost) and then form large PANH/PAH or multiple dehydrogenated molecules; in particular, the dehydrogenation of PANH clusters provides a possible way to synthesize large nitrogen-containing graphene species (e.g. C59N+ and C61N+). Also, we perform quantum-theoretical calculations on the formation and photochemistry of DC/acridine and DC/phenazine cluster cations: two types of molecular cluster are considered (C–C and C–N bond type) and the formation pathway and dissociation energy for each isomer are determined. The experimental and theoretical findings obtained give a general molecular growth pathway toward all-benzenoid aromatic species with size (> 60 C atoms) in the astrophysically relevant range, during a ground-up formation process, and offer understanding of the nitrogen element effect on their chemical-evolutionary behaviour. Also, studies of DC/acridine and DC/phenazine clusters (89–112 atoms, ∼2 nm in size) offer a feasible means of explanation for the formation of nanoscale dust grains (nitrogen element included) in space.
Outcomes of Police Sexual Misconduct in the UK
Authors: Sweeting Fay , Arabaci-Hills Peter , Cole Terri
Published: July 2020

Sexual misconduct in police officers and staff is a serious form of corruption with negative consequences for victims and the reputation of the police. It can include a variety of behaviours ranging from inappropriate sexual comments to colleagues to sexual activity with vulnerable victims of crime. Analysis of publicly accessible data available from proven cases of sexual misconduct in 30 police forces in England and Wales has identified eight categories of sexual misconduct, together with the subsequent disciplinary outcomes. The most frequently recorded type of sexual misconduct involved officers of Constable rank conducting sexual relationships with victims of crime. Conversely, officers of higher ranks were more frequently found to engage in sexual bullying towards junior officers. Consequential dismissal rates varied greatly across different regions of the country. This research focuses on sexual misconduct within English and Welsh police forces and provides the current picture behaviours across regions, ranks, and gender.
Cross-Sectional Patterns of Mortgage Debt during the Housing Boom: Evidence and Implications
Authors: Foote Christopher L , Loewenstein Lara , Willen Paul S
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we use two comprehensive micro-data sets to study how the distribution of mortgage debt evolved during the 2000s housing boom. We show that the allocation of mortgage debt across the income distribution remained stable, as did the allocation of real estate assets. Any theory of the boom must replicate these facts, and a general equilibrium model shows that doing so requires two elements: (1) an exogenous shock that increases expected house price growth or, alternatively, reduces interest rates and (2) financial markets that endogenously relax borrowing constraints in response to the shock. Empirically, the endogenous relaxation of constraints was largely accomplished with subprime lending, which allowed the mortgage debt of low-income households to increase at the same rate as that of high-income households.
Likelihood Ratio-Based Tests for Markov Regime Switching
Authors: Qu Zhongjun , Zhuo Fan
Published: July 2020

Markov regime-switching models are very common in economics and finance. Despite persisting interest in them, the asymptotic distributions of likelihood ratio-based tests for detecting regime switching remain unknown. This study examines such tests and establishes their asymptotic distributions in the context of nonlinear models, allowing multiple parameters to be affected by regime switching. The analysis addresses three difficulties: (i) some nuisance parameters are unidentified under the null hypothesis, (ii) the null hypothesis yields a local optimum, and (iii) the conditional regime probabilities follow stochastic processes that can only be represented recursively. Addressing these issues permits substantial power gains in empirically relevant settings. This study also presents the following results: (1) a characterization of the conditional regime probabilities and their derivatives with respect to the model’s parameters, (2) a high-order approximation to the log-likelihood ratio, (3) a refinement of the asymptotic distribution, and (4) a unified algorithm to simulate the critical values. For models that are linear under the null hypothesis, the elements needed for the algorithm can all be computed analytically. Furthermore, the above results explain why some bootstrap procedures can be inconsistent, and why standard information criteria can be sensitive to the hypothesis and the model structure. When applied to US quarterly real gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate data, the methods detect relatively strong evidence favouring the regime-switching specification. Lastly, we apply the methods in the context of dynamic stochastic equilibrium models and obtain similar results as the GDP case.
A Theory of Strategic Uncertainty and Cultural Diversity
Authors: Kets Willemien , Sandroni Alvaro
Published: July 2020

We identify a new mechanism through which cultural diversity affects economic outcomes, based on a model of culture as shared cognition. Under this view, cultural diversity matters because it increases strategic uncertainty. The model can help better understand a variety of disparate evidence, including why homogeneous societies can be more conformist, why diverse societies may get stuck in a low-trust trap, why companies with a strong culture may fail to adopt superior work practices, and why autocratic rulers in diverse societies may overinvest in state capacity.
Shocking Racial Attitudes: Black G.I.s in Europe
Authors: Schindler David , Westcott Mark
Published: July 2020

Can attitudes towards minorities, an important cultural trait, be changed? We show that the presence of African American soldiers in the UK during World War II reduced anti-minority prejudice, a result of the positive interactions which took place between soldiers and the local population. The change has been persistent: in locations in which more African American soldiers were posted there are fewer members of and voters for the UK’s leading far-right party, less implicit bias against blacks and fewer individuals professing racial prejudice, all measured around 2010. Our results point towards intergenerational transmission from parents to children as the most likely explanation.
Bank Capital Redux: Solvency, Liquidity, and Crisis
Authors: Jordà Òscar , Richter Björn , Schularick Moritz , Taylor Alan M
Published: July 2020

What is the relationship between bank capital, the risk of a financial crisis, and its severity? This article introduces the first comprehensive analysis of the long-run evolution of the capital structure of modern banking using newly constructed data for banks’ balance sheets in 17 countries since 1870. In addition to establishing stylized facts on the changing funding mix of banks, we study the nexus between capital structure and financial instability. We find no association between higher capital and lower risk of banking crisis. However, economies with better capitalized banking systems recover faster from financial crises as credit begins to flow back more readily.
The Revelation Principle in Multistage Games
Authors: Sugaya Takuo , Wolitzky Alexander
Published: July 2020

The communication revelation principle (RP) of mechanism design states that any outcome that can be implemented using any communication system can also be implemented by an incentive-compatible direct mechanism. In multistage games, we show that in general the communication RP fails for the solution concept of sequential equilibrium (SE). However, it holds in important classes of games, including single-agent games, games with pure adverse selection, games with pure moral hazard, and a class of social learning games. For general multistage games, we establish that an outcome is implementable in SE if and only if it is implementable in a canonical Nash equilibrium in which players never take codominated actions. We also prove that the communication RP holds for the more permissive solution concept of conditional probability perfect Bayesian equilibrium.
A multitrait, multimethod matrix approach for a consumer-grade wrist-worn watch measuring sleep duration and continuity
Authors: Bliwise Donald L , Chapple Christopher , Maislisch Lena , Roitmann Eva , Burtea Teodor
Published: July 2020

Study Objectives

We examined associations between self-reports about typical sleep patterns and sleep data derived from a wearable device worn on a nightly basis for a prolonged period (mean = 214 nights). We hypothesized that sleep characteristics would correlate better across different methods of assessment (self-report versus wearable) than they would correlate within the same method, a classic psychometric approach (multitrait, multimethod matrix).

Methods

A cross-national sample of 6,230 adult wearable users completed a brief sleep questionnaire collecting data on sleep duration and number of awakenings (NAW) and provided informed consent to link their responses to data from their wearable watches. The data collection for the wearable occurred over 12 months and the sleep questionnaire was completed subsequent to that.

Results

Results indicated a large (r = .615) correlation between sleep duration as assessed with the wearable and by self-report. A medium-to-large correlation (r = .406) was also seen for NAW. The multitrait, multimethod matrix suggested minimal method variance, i.e. similar “traits” (sleep duration and NAW) correlated across methods but within a given method, and such “traits” were generally unrelated.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the longer period of data collection with the wearable generates more stable estimates of sleep than have been reported in most studies of actigraphy. Alternatively, the data might imply that individuals modify their self-reports about sleep via daily feedback to align their perceptions to the output of the wearable.
Feasibility of a social media-based weight loss intervention designed for low-SES adults
Authors: Cavallo David N , Martinez Rogelio , Webb Hooper Monica , Flocke Susan
Published: July 2020

Low-socioeconomic status (SES) individuals have higher rates of obesity. Social media platforms are used frequently by low-SES individuals and facilitate important weight loss program components including social support. Very few social media-based weight loss interventions, however, have enrolled or been tailored to low-SES participants. The purpose of this article is to examine the feasibility of a social media-based weight loss intervention among low-SES adults. We conducted a one-group pretest post-test pilot intervention study with two groups (group 1, n = 39, group 2, n = 16) of low-SES overweight/obese adults who were enrolled in a 12-week social media-based weight loss intervention including self-monitoring via Fitbits and participation in a private Facebook group. A moderator provided educational content and encouraged social support via Facebook. Descriptive statistics were used to assess intervention acceptability and engagement. Exploratory analyses were conducted to examine changes in study outcomes and engagement patterns. The study had good retention (86%). Among 55 total participants enrolled, there were 9,175 participant interactions within the Facebook group. Among completers (n = 47), 96% indicated they would recommend the intervention to a friend. Mean weight loss was 1.07 kg (SD = 3.96, p = .0498), and participants reported increases in positive dietary social support (mean = 2.47, SD = 5.09, p = .0007). Engagement in this social media-based pilot intervention was high and exceeded results from previous studies using similar formats. Participants evaluated the intervention favorably. Changes in weight loss and several theoretical mediators were in the desired direction. Overall, our results indicate social media groups as a platform for weight loss intervention delivery among low-SES adults are feasible and should be studied in larger randomized trials.
Grassy Weeds and Corn as Potential Sources of Barley yellow dwarf virus Spread Into Winter Wheat
Authors: Rashidi Mahnaz , Cruzado Regina K. , Hutchinson Pamela J. S. , Bosque-Pérez Nilsa A. , Marshall Juliet M. , Rashed Arash
Published: July 2020

Barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) is an important vector-borne pathogen of cereals. Although many species of grasses are known to host BYDV, knowledge of their role in virus spread in regional agroecosystems remains limited. Between 2012 and 2016, Idaho winter wheat production was affected by BYDV. BYDV-PAV and the bird cherry-oat aphid (BCOA) (Rhopalosiphum padi L.) vector were commonly present in the affected areas. A series of greenhouse bioassays were performed to examine whether two types of corn (Zea mays L.), dent and sweet, and three commonly found grassy weeds, downy brome (Bromus tectorum L.), green foxtail (Setaria viridis L.), and foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum L.), can be inoculated with BYDV (species BYDV-PAV) by BCOA and also act as sources of the virus in winter wheat. BCOA successfully transmitted BYDV-PAV to both corn types and all weed species. Virus titers differed between the weed species (P = 0.032) and between corn types (P = 0.001). In transmission bioassays, aphids were able to survive on these host plants during the 5-day acquisition access period and later successfully transmitted BYDV-PAV to winter wheat (var. SY Ovation). Transmission success was positively correlated with the virus titer of the source plant (P < 0.001) and influenced by weed species (P = 0.028) but not corn type. Overall, the results of our inoculation and transmission assays showed that the examined weed species and corn types can be inoculated with BYDV-PAV by BCOA and subsequently act as sources of infections in winter wheat.
The effect of plant-based dietary patterns on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled intervention trials
Authors: Gibbs Joshua , Gaskin Eleanor , Ji Chen , Miller Michelle A. , Cappuccio Francesco P.
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

The consumption of strict vegetarian diets with no animal products is associated with low blood pressure (BP). It is not clear whether less strict plant-based diets (PBDs) containing some animal products exert a similar effect. The main objective of this meta-analysis was to assess whether PBDs reduce BP in controlled clinical trials.

Methods:

We searched Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Medline, Embase, and Web of Science to identify controlled clinical trials investigating the effect of PBDs on BP. Standardized mean differences in BP and 95% confidence intervals were pooled using a random effects model. Risk of bias, sensitivity, heterogeneity, and publication bias were assessed.

Results:

Of the 790 studies identified, 41 clinical trials met the inclusion criteria (8416 participants of mean age 49.2 years). In the pooled analysis, PBDs were associated with lower SBP [Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension −5.53 mmHg (95% confidence intervals −7.95,–3.12), Mediterranean −0.95 mmHg (–1.70,–0.20), Vegan −1.30 mmHg (–3.90,1.29), Lacto-ovo vegetarian −5.47 mmHg (–7.60,–3.34), Nordic −4.47 mmHg (–7.14,–1.81), high-fiber −0.65 mmHg (–1.83,0.53), high-fruit and vegetable −0.57 mmHg (–7.45,6.32)]. Similar effects were seen on DBP. There was no evidence of publication bias and some heterogeneity was detected. The certainty of the results is high for the lacto-ovo vegetarian and Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension diets, moderate for the Nordic and Mediterranean diets, low for the vegan diet, and very low for the high-fruit and vegetable and high-fiber diets.

Conclusion:

PBDs with limited animal products lower both SBP and DBP, across sex and BMI.
Cinnamaldehyde elicits itch behavior via TRPV1 and TRPV4 but not TRPA1
Authors: Domocos Dan , Follansbee Taylor , Nguyen Amanda , Nguyen Tony , Carstens Mirela I. , Carstens Earl
Published: July 2020

Introduction:

Cinnamaldehyde (CA) elicits itch sensation in humans. We investigated if CA elicits scratching behavior in mice and determined the roles for TRPV1, TRPA1, and TRPV4.

Materials and Methods:

Scratching behavior elicited by intradermal injection of CA was assessed in wildtype (WT) mice and knockout (KO) mice lacking TRPV1, TRPA1, TRPV4, or deficient in mast cells. We also assessed scratching and wet dog shakes elicited by low-threshold mechanical stimulation of skin treated topically with CA or vehicle. Using calcium imaging we tested if CA activates dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons of each genotype.

Results:

Intradermal cheek injection of CA elicited dose-dependent hindlimb scratch bouts, with fewer forelimb wipes and facial groom bouts that were not dose-dependent. CA elicited significantly fewer scratch bouts in TRPV1 and TRPV4 KO mice, but not TRPA1KOs, compared with WTs. There were no sex differences across genotypes. The histamine H1 antagonist cetirizine did not affect CA-evoked scratching, which was normal in mast cell deficient mice, indicating lack of histamine involvement. Scores for alloknesis were significantly greater following topical application of CA compared with vehicle. Post-CA alloknesis scores were significantly higher in TRPV4KOs of both sexes and in female TRPV1 and TRPA1KOs, compared with WTs. Low threshold mechanical stimuli also elicited significantly more wet dog shakes in mice treated topically with 20% CA, with significantly fewer in TRPV1, TRPA1, and TRPV4KOs compared with WTs. In calcium imaging studies, CA excited 24% of WT DRG cells, significantly fewer (11.5%) in cells from TRPV4KOs, and none in TRPA1KOs. Responses of cells of all genotypes exhibited significant sensitization to repeated CA stimulation. Sensitization was significantly enhanced by IL-4, which itself excited 16% of WT DRG cells and none from TRPA1KOs.

Discussion:

The results indicate that TRPA1 is dispensable for CA-evoked scratching, which depends partly on TRPV1 and TRPV4.
Turbulence characterization at a tidal energy site using large-eddy simulations: case of the Alderney Race
Authors: Bourgoin Adrien C. L. , Guillou Sylvain S. , Thiébot Jérôme , Ata Riadh
Published: July 2020

Sites suitable for the deployment of tidal turbines generally show a combination of complex seabed morphologies and extreme current magnitudes. Such configurations favour the formation of vortices, which can be very powerful. Anticipating the vortex effect on the turbine performance and/or lifespan requires refined description of the turbulence. Thanks to increased calculation resources, large-eddy simulation (LES) can now be applied to natural flow. An LES approach developed within the TELEMAC-3D open-source software is presented here. After validating the model with
in-situ
measurements, the model is applied to characterize the flow statistics of the Alderney Race.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘New insights on tidal dynamics and tidal energy harvesting in the Alderney Race’.
Experimental analysis of the shear flow effect on tidal turbine blade root force from three-dimensional mean flow reconstruction
Authors: Gaurier B. , Druault Ph. , Ikhennicheu M. , Germain G.
Published: July 2020

In the main tidal energy sites like Alderney Race, turbulence intensity is high and velocity fluctuations may have a significant impact on marine turbines. To understand such phenomena better, a three-bladed turbine model is positioned in the wake of a generic wall-mounted obstacle, representative of
in situ
bathymetric variation. From two-dimensional Particle Image Velocimetry planes, the time-averaged velocity in the wake of the obstacle is reconstructed in the three-dimensional space. The reconstruction method is based on Proper Orthogonal Decomposition and enables access to a representation of the mean flow field and the associated shear. Then, the effect of the velocity gradient is observed on the turbine blade root force, for four turbine locations in the wake of the obstacle. The blade root force average decreases whereas its standard deviation increases when the distance to the obstacle increases. The angular distribution of this phase-averaged force is shown to be non-homogeneous, with variation of about 20% of its time-average during a turbine rotation cycle. Such force variations due to velocity shear will have significant consequences in terms of blade fatigue.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘New insights on tidal dynamics and tidal energy harvesting in the Alderney Race’.
Transcriptomics of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Cells Identifies New Molecular Endotypes of Sarcoidosis
Authors: Vukmirovic Milica , Yan Xiting , Gibson Kevin F. , Gulati Mridu , Schupp Jonas C. , DeIuliis Giuseppe , Adams Taylor S. , Hu Buqu , Mihaljinec Antun , Woolard Tony , Lynn Heather , Emeagwali Nkiruka , Herzog Erica L. , Chen Edward S. , Morris Alison , Leader Joseph K. , Zhang Yingze , Garcia Joe G. N. , Maier Lisa A. , Colman Ron , Drake Wonder P. , Becich Michael , Hochheiser Harrison , Wisniewski Steven R. , Benos Panayiotis V. , Moller David R. , Prasse Antje , Koth Laura L. , Kaminski Naftali
Published: July 2020

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown origin with a variable and often unpredictable course and pattern of organ involvement. In this study we sought to identify specific bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cell gene expression patterns indicative of distinct disease phenotypic traits.

RNA sequencing by Ion Torrent Proton was performed on BAL cells obtained from 215 well characterized patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis enrolled in the multicenter Genomic Research in Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and Sarcoidosis (GRADS) study. Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) and non-parametric statistics were used to analyze genome wide BAL transcriptome. Validation of results was performed using a microarray expression data set of an independent sarcoidosis cohort (Freiburg, Germany (n=50)).

Our supervised analysis found associations between distinct transcriptional programs and major pulmonary phenotypic manifestations of sarcoidosis including; TH1 and TH17 pathways associated with hilar lymphadenopathy; TGFB1 and MTOR signaling with parenchymal involvement, and IL7 and IL2 with airway involvement. Our unsupervised analysis revealed gene modules that uncovered four potential sarcoidosis endotypes including hilar lymphadenopathy with increased acute T cell immune response; extraocular organ involvement with PI3K activation pathways; chronic and multiorgan disease with increased immune response pathways; and multiorgan with increased IL-1 and IL-18 immune and inflammatory responses. We validated the occurrence of these endotypes using gene expression, pulmonary function tests and cell differentials from Freiburg. Taken together our results identify BAL gene expression programs that characterize major pulmonary sarcoidosis phenotypes and suggest the presence of distinct disease molecular endotypes.

Take home message

Genome wide BAL transcriptomics identified novel gene expression profiles associated with distinct phenotypic traits in sarcoidosis and is suggestive of the presence of novel molecular and clinical sarcoidosis endotypes that could help with further understanding of this heterogenous disease.
Spatial and temporal context jointly modulate the sensory response within the ventral visual stream
Authors: He Tao , Richter David , Wang Zhiguo , de Lange Floris P.
Published: July 2020

Both spatial and temporal context play an important role in visual perception and behavior. Humans can extract statistical regularities from both forms of context to help processing the present and to construct expectations about the future. Numerous studies have found reduced neural responses to expected stimuli compared to unexpected stimuli, for both spatial and temporal regularities. However, it is largely unclear whether and how these forms of context interact. In the current fMRI study, thirty-three human volunteers were exposed to object stimuli that could be expected or surprising in terms of their spatial and temporal context. We found a reliable independent contribution of both spatial and temporal context in modulating the neural response. Specifically, neural responses to stimuli in expected compared to unexpected contexts were suppressed throughout the ventral visual stream. Interestingly, the modulation by spatial context was stronger in magnitude and more reliable than modulations by temporal context. These results suggest that while both spatial and temporal context serve as a prior that can modulate sensory processing in a similar fashion, predictions of spatial context may be a more powerful modulator in the visual system.

Significance Statement

Both temporal and spatial context can affect visual perception, however it is largely unclear if and how these different forms of context interact in modulating sensory processing. When manipulating both temporal and spatial context expectations, we found that they jointly affected sensory processing, evident as a suppression of neural responses for expected compared to unexpected stimuli. Interestingly, the modulation by spatial context was stronger than that by temporal context. Together, our results suggest that spatial context may be a stronger modulator of neural responses than temporal context within the visual system. Thereby, the present study provides new evidence how different types of predictions jointly modulate perceptual processing.
Long non-coding RNA regulation of spermatogenesis and endosomal processes via the spectrin cytoskeleton inDrosophila
Authors: Bouska Mark J , Bai Hua
Published: July 2020

The spectrin cytoskeleton has been shown to be critical in diverse processes such as axon development and degeneration, myoblast fusion, and spermatogenesis. Spectrin can be modulated in a tissue specific manner through junctional protein complexes, however, it has not been shown that lncRNAs interact with and regulate spectrin. Here we provide evidence of a lncRNA that interacts with α and β Spectrin to regulate spermatogenesis and endosomal related activity in fat bodies ofDrosophila. Protein-RNA and Protein-Protein biochemical analysis indicated the interaction between α and β Spectrin is modulated by the lncRNA CR45362. Immunocytochemistry revealed CR45362 is highly expressed in the basal testis while α and β Spectrin are clearly disrupted in this same region of CR45362 mutants. We genetically demonstrate α-Spectrin and CR45362 deficiencies cause spermatid nuclear bundling defects with congruous changes of spectrin distribution and reduced Lysotracker staining in the fat body. Our data suggests lncRNA regulation of spectrin could provide cells with a repertoire of modulatory molecules to manipulate cell-type specific cytoskeletal and endosomal requirements.
Species detection within theEchinococcus granulosus sensu latocomplex by novel probe-based Real-Time PCRs
Authors: Maksimov Pavlo , Bergmann Hannes , Wassermann Marion , Romig Thomas , Gottstein Bruno , Casulli Adriano , Conraths Franz J.
Published: July 2020

Infections with eggs ofEchinococcus granulosus sensu lato(s.l.) can cause cystic echinococcosis in intermediate host animals and humans. Upon ingestion of viable eggs, oncospheres hatch from the eggs and subsequently develop into fluid-filled larval cysts, most frequently in the liver or the lungs. The slowly growing cysts progressively interfere with organ function. The risk of infection is determined by the host range of the parasite, its pathogenicity and other epidemiologically relevant parameters, which differ significantly among the five species within theE. granulosus s.l. complex. It is therefore essential to diagnose the correct species withinE. granulosus s.l. to help understand specific disease epidemiology and to facilitate effective implementation of control measures. For this purpose, simple, fast and cost-effective typing techniques are needed.

We developed quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reactions (qPCRs) and corresponding sequence-specific hydrolysis DNA probes to target polymorphic regions in the mitochondrial genome ofE. granulosus s.l.. In a single-step typing approach, we distinguishedE. granulosus s.l. members in four epidemiologically relevant subgroups. These wereE. granulosus sensu stricto(G1, G3),E. equinus(G4),E. ortleppi(G5) and theE. canadensiscluster (G6 to G8 and G10). The technique also allowed identification and differentiation of these species from otherEchinococcusorTaeniataxa for samples isolated from cysts or faeces.

Single-step genotyping techniques for the molecular diagnosis ofEchinococcusspp. by qPCRs may not only improve diagnostic performance, but also our knowledge on the epidemiology of the parasites and help controlling the various agents of cystic echinococcosis.
Functional mapping of B-cell linear epitopes of SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19 convalescent population
Authors: Yi Zhigang , Ling Yun , Zhang Xiaonan , Chen Jieliang , Hu Kongying , Wang Yuyan , song Wuhui , Ying Tianlei , Zhang Rong , Lu Hongzou , Yuan Zhenghong
Published: July 2020

Pandemic SARS-CoV-2 has infected over 10 million people and caused over 500,000 mortalities. Vaccine development is in urgent need to stop the pandemic. Despite great progresses on SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development, the efficacy of the vaccines remains to be determined. Deciphering the interactions of the viral epitopes with their elicited neutralizing antibodies in the convalescent COVID-19 population inspires the vaccine development. In this study, we devised a peptide array composed of 20-mer overlapped peptides of spike (S), membrane (M) and envelope (E) proteins, and performed a screening with 120 COVID-19 convalescent serums and 24 non-COVID-19 serums. We identified five SARS-CoV-2-specific dominant epitopes that reacted with above 40% COVID-19 convalescent serums. Epitopes in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of S ill reacted with the convalescent serums. Of note, two peptides non-specifically interacted with most of the non-COVID-19 serums. Neutralization assay indicated that only five serums completely blocked viral infection at the dilution of 1:200. By using a peptide-compete neutralizing assay, we found that three dominant epitopes partially competed the neutralization activity of several convalescent serums, suggesting antibodies elicited by these epitopes played an important role in neutralizing viral infection. The epitopes we identified in this study may serve as vaccine candidates to elicit neutralizing antibodies in most vaccinated people or specific antigens for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis.
Inhibitory and Transport Mechanisms of the Human Cation-Chloride Cotransport KCC1
Authors: Zhao Yongxiang , Shen Jiemin , Wang Qinzhe , Zhou Ming , Cao Erhu
Published: July 2020

Secondary active cation-chloride cotransporters (CCCs) catalyze electroneutral symport of Cl−with Na+and/or K+across membranes1,2. CCCs are fundamental in cell volume homeostasis, transepithelia ion movement, maintenance of intracellular Cl−concentration, and inhibitory synaptic transmission3–6. K+-Cl−cotransport 1 (KCC1) was first characterized in red blood cells and later in many other cell types as a crucial player in regulatory volume decrease in defense against cell swelling upon hypotonic challenges7,8. Here we present two cryo-EM structures of human KCC1: one captured in an inward-open state and another arrested in an outward-open state by a small molecule inhibitor. KCC1 can surprisingly adopt two distinct dimeric architectures via homotypic association of different protein domains and conversion between these two forms of dimers may entail dynamic formation and rupture of two interdigitating regulatory cytoplasmic domains. The inhibitor wedges into and forces open an extracellular ion permeation path and arrests KCC1 in an outward-open conformation. Concomitantly, the outward-open conformation involves inward movement of the transmembrane helix 8 and occlusion of the intracellular exit by a conserved short helix within the intracellular loop 1. Our structures provide a blueprint for understanding the mechanisms of CCC transporters and their inhibition by small molecule compounds.
High-content analysis reveals senescence of cultured canine adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells to be reversible with a novel immortalization approach
Authors: Stojiljković Ana , Gaschen Véronique , Forterre Franck , Rytz Ulrich , Stoffel Michael H. , Bluteau Jasmin
Published: July 2020

1

In the last decades, the scientific community spared no effort to elucidate the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Unfortunately,in vitrocellular senescence occurring along with a loss of proliferative capacity is a major drawback in view of future therapeutic applications of these cells in the field of regenerative medicine. Even though insight into the mechanisms of replicative senescence in human medicine has evolved dramatically, knowledge about replicative senescence of canine MSCs is still scarce. Thus, we developed a high-content analysis workflow to simultaneously investigate three important characteristics of senescence in canine adipose-derived MSCs (cAD-MSCs): morphological changes, activation of the cell cycle arrest machinery and increased activity of the senescence-associated β-galactosidase. We took advantage of this tool to demonstrate that passaging of cAD-MSCs results in the appearance of a senescence phenotype and proliferation arrest. This was partially prevented upon immortalization of these cells using a newly designed PiggyBac™ Transposon System, which allows for the expression of the human polycomb ring finger proto-oncogene BMI1 and the human telomerase reverse transcriptase under the same promotor. Our results indicate that cAD-MSCs immortalized with this new vector maintain their proliferation capacity and differentiation potential for a longer time than untreated cAD-MSCs. This study not only offers a workflow to investigate replicative senescence in eukaryotic cells with a high-content analysis approach but also paves the way for a rapid and effective generation of immortalized MSC lines. This promotes a better understanding of these cells in view of future applications in regenerative medicine.
Structure of the HLTF HIRAN domain and its functional implications in regression of a stalled replication fork
Authors: Hishiki Asami , Sato Mamoru , Hashimoto Hiroshi
Published: July 2020

HLTF (helicase-like transcription factor) is a yeast RAD5 homolog that is found in mammals. HLTF has E3 ubiquitin ligase and DNA helicase activities, and is a pivotal protein in template-switched DNA synthesis that allows DNA replication to continue even in the presence of DNA damage by utilizing a newly synthesized undamaged strand as a template. In addition, HLTF has a DNA-binding domain termed HIRAN (HIP116 and RAD5 N-terminal). HIRAN has been hypothesized to play a role in DNA binding; however, the structural basis of its role in DNA binding has remained unclear. In the past five years, several crystal structures of HIRAN have been reported. These structures revealed new insights into the molecular mechanism underlying DNA binding by HIRAN. Here, the structural information on HIRAN is summarized and the function of HIRAN in recognizing the 3′-terminus of the daughter strand at a stalled replication fork and the implications for its involvement in fork regression are discussed.
Understanding the implications of Belt and Road Initiative for sustainable supply chains: an environmental perspective
Authors: Butt Atif Saleem , Ali Imran
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This research aims to explore the potential impacts of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on sustainable supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs twenty qualitative interviews with supply chain managers located on the BRI lane from Asian countries.

Findings

Findings revealed that if not managed properly, BRI can pose a serious threats to sustainable supply chains from environmental perspective. The findings also revealed additional properties which lead to the emergence of these perspective.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study may not be generalizable to a broader population. Second, this study explores supply chain managers’ interpretations from Asian countries only.

Practical implications

Supply chain firms can use the findings from this study to understand the implications of BRI for sustainable supply chains. Particularly, firms can understand how the BRI may harm the organization's sustainable supply chains from the environmental perspective.

Originality/value

This is, perhaps, the first study which provides empirical evidence concerning the potential impacts of BRI on the management of sustainable supply chains.
The redBus in Saga: Managing the Start-up Acquisition Phase
Authors: Ghura Amarpreet Singh , Abhishek
Published: July 2020

In June 2013, redbus.in, a bus ticketing website, was acquired by the Ibibo Group, a subsidiary of South Africa based internet and media firm Naspers Ltd, for USD 135 million. Soon after signing the deal, Phanindra Sama - CEO and co-founder of redBus, went for a holiday to London along with his parents. Sama remained incommunicado during the 10 day trip by not acquiring a local number and not accessing his emails. During Sama's absence, senior management team of Alok Goel and Satish Gidugu at redBus along with three mid-level managers submitted their resignation. Apart from employees of redBus, the Ibibo takeover team was also ‘foxed’ as desperate calls and emails to Sama elicited no response. This case examines the chaos created due to Sama's absence and helps in understanding the issues when a technology start up is acquired.
Characterization of rotor losses in permanent magnet machines
Authors: Caunes Antomne , Takorabet Noureddine , Chaithongsuk Sisuda , Duranton Laurent
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a synthesis of the analysis and modeling of the rotor losses in high speed permanent magnets motors.

Design/methodology/approach

Three types of losses are as a result of eddy currents in the conductive parts of the rotor. The analysis includes their characterization and the setup of a numerical model using finite element method. The adopted methodology is based on the separation of the losses which allows a better understanding of the physical phenomena. Each type of losses will be modeled and computed separately.

Findings

It is possible to make a precise estimate of the different losses in the rotor while keeping a relatively short computing time.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis is applied on a high-speed permanent magnet motor for avionic application. The model is validated with the commercial finite element model (FEM) software Flux2D.

Originality/value

The developed model allows an important save in terms of CPU-time compared to commercial FEM software while staying accurate. The separation of each losses and their sources is important for motor engineers and was requested for them to improve the designs more easily.
A death in the family: a metaphor about race and police brutality
Authors: Avery Derek R. , Ruggs Enrica N.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This essay was written in response to the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Rayshard Brooks by police in 2020 and the surge of social justice protests they helped to reignite.

Design/methodology/approach

This essay uses a metaphor that nearly everyone can understand to help build common understanding around the unique impact of police killings of Black people on other Black people.

Findings

This essay uses social psychological theory and our experiences as Black Americans and diversity scholars to illustrate why interracial conversations about police killings of Black people may not proceed as intended.

Originality/value

In the wake of growing social justice protests aimed at combating systemic racism in the US, many individuals and organizations are wrestling with determining how people can talk about race. This is uncharted territory for many, as sociological research shows that racioethnic integration has stalled or even regressed in schools, workplaces and social networks in the US This essay seeks to help readers move toward a common understanding to facilitate more empathetic interracial interactions involving Black people in the aftermath of these traumatic experiences.