bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between multisensory associative learning and multisensory integration
Authors: Lauzon Sébastien Á. , Abraham Arin. E. , Curcin Kristina , Stevenson Ryan A.
Published: August 2020

Our perception of the world around us is inherently multisensory, and integrating sensory information from multiple modalities leads to more precise and efficient perception and behaviour. Determining which sensory information from different modalities should be perceptually bound is a key component of multisensory integration. To accomplish this feat, our sensory systems rely on both low-level stimulus features, as well as multisensory associations learned throughout development based on the statistics of our environment. The present study explored the relationship between multisensory associative learning and multisensory integration using encephalography (EEG) and behavioural measures. Sixty-one participants completed a three-phase study. First, participants were exposed to novel pairings audiovisual shape-tone pairings with frequent and infrequent stimulus pairings and complete a target detection task. EEG recordings of the mismatch negativity (MMN) and P3 were calculated as neural indices of multisensory associative learning. Next, the same learned stimulus pairs presented in audiovisual as well as unisensory auditory and visual modalities while both early (<120 ms) and late neural indices of multisensory integration were recorded. Finally, participants completed an analogous behavioural speeded-response task, with behavioural indices of multisensory gain calculated using the race model. Significant relationships were found in fronto-central and occipital areas between neural measures of associative learning and both early and late indices of multisensory integration in frontal and centro-parietal areas, respectively. Participants who showed stronger indices of associative learning also exhibited stronger indices of multisensory integration of the stimuli they learned to associate. Furthermore, a significant relationship was found between neural index of early multisensory integration and behavioural indices of multisensory gain. These results provide insight into the neural underpinnings of how higher-order processes such as associative learning guide multisensory integration.
Genome-wide analysis of in vivo CcpA binding with and without its key co-factor HPr in the major human pathogen group AStreptococcus
Authors: DebRoy Sruti , Tobar Victor Aliaga , Galvez Gabriel , Arora Srishtee , Liang Xiaowen , Horstmann Nicola , Maracaja-Coutinho Vinicius , Latorre Mauricio , Hook Magnus , Flores Anthony R. , Shelburne Samuel A.
Published: August 2020

Catabolite control protein A (CcpA) is a master regulator of carbon source utilization and contributes to the virulence of numerous medically important Gram-positive bacteria. Most functional assessments of CcpA, including interaction with its key co-factor HPr, have been performed in non-pathogenic bacteria. In this study we aimed to identify the in vivo DNA binding profile of CcpA and assess the extent to which HPr is required for CcpA-mediated regulation and DNA binding in the major human pathogen group AStreptococcus(GAS). Using a combination RNAseq/ChIPseq approach, we found that CcpA affects transcript levels of 514 of 1667 GAS genes (31%) whereas direct DNA binding was identified for 105 GAS genes. Three of the directly regulated genes encode the key GAS virulence factors Streptolysin S, PrtS (IL-8 degrading proteinase), and SpeB (cysteine protease). Mutating CcpA Val301 to Ala (strain 2221-CcpA-V301A) abolished interaction between CcpA and HPr and impacted the transcript levels of 205 genes (40%) in the total CcpA regulon. By ChIPseq analysis, CcpAV301A bound to DNA from 74% of genes bound by wild-type CcpA, but generally with lower affinity. These data delineate the direct CcpA regulon and clarify the HPr-dependent and independent activities of CcpA in a key pathogenic bacterium.

Data sharing and data availability

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
ORP1L regulates dynein clustering on endolysosmal membranes in response to cholesterol levels
Authors: Thakur Shreyasi , Relich Peter K. , Sorokina Elena M. , Gyparaki Melina T. , Lakadamyali Melike
Published: August 2020

The sub-cellular positioning of endolysosomes is crucial for regulating their function. Particularly, the positioning of endolysosomes between the cell periphery versus the peri-nuclear region impacts autophagy, mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) signaling and other processes. The mechanisms that regulate the positioning of endolysosomes at these two locations are still being uncovered. Here, using super-resolution microscopy, we show that the retrograde motor dynein forms nano-clusters on endolysosomal membranes containing 1-2 dyneins, with an average of ~3 nanoclusters per endolysosome. These data suggest that a very small number of dynein motors (1-6) drive endolysosome motility. Surprisingly, dynein nano-clusters are slightly larger on peripheral endolysosomes having higher cholesterol levels compared to peri-nuclear ones. By perturbing endolysosomal membrane cholesterol levels, we show that dynein copy number within nano-clusters is influenced by the amount of endolysosomal cholesterol while the total number of nano-clusters per endolysosome is independent of cholesterol. Finally, we show that the dynein adapter protein ORP1L (Oxysterol Binding Protein Homologue) regulates the number of dynein motors within nano-clusters in response to cholesterol levels. We propose a new model by which endolysosomal transport and positioning is influenced by the cholesterol sensing adapter protein ORP1L, which influences dynein’s copy number within nano-clusters.
Diversity analysis of gut microbiota between healthy controls and those with atopic dermatitis in a Chinese population
Authors: Ye Siqi , Yan Fenggen , Wang Haiyan , Mo Xiumei , Liu Junfeng , Zhang Yu , Li Hongyi , Chen Dacan
Published: August 2020

An increasing body of evidence suggests that gut microbiota is involved in atopic dermatitis (AD). We aimed to use high‐throughput sequencing to characterize the differences in the composition of the gut microbiota between healthy controls and patients with AD. Fecal samples from 93 volunteers were analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing, including 44 patients with AD and 49 healthy control subjects, aged 6–22 years. Our data show that the operational taxonomic unit composition in patients with AD had greater component similarity than the healthy controls. Patients with AD had a lower alpha diversity than healthy control subjects. The relative abundance ofPorphyromonadaceae,Blautia,Parabacteroides,Bacteroides ovatus,Bacteroides uniformisandPrevotella stercoreawas significantly higher (P < 0.05) in patients with AD than healthy control subjects.ClostridiumandP. stercoreawere higher (P < 0.05) in healthy control subjects compared with patients with AD. The results of linear discriminant analysis effect size show thatBacteroidaceaeandPorphyromonadaceaecan act as possible biomarkers associated with diagnosis of AD. However, this needs further experimental verification. Taken together, these results demonstrate the changes in microbiota composition in AD compared with a healthy control group, opening the way to future diagnosis or intervention studies.
Functional traits of avian frugivores have shifted following species extinction and introduction in the Hawaiian Islands
Authors: Case Samuel B. , Tarwater Corey E.
Published: August 2020

The extinction and introduction of species can alter ecological processes owing to the loss or gain of species roles. In vertebrate‐dependent seed dispersal, mutualisms between frugivores and fruiting plants depend, in part, on matching of functional traits. High species turnover of frugivores has occurred on the Hawaiian Islands, owing to both the loss of native frugivores and the introduction of a new suite of frugivores. How this turnover has altered the functional traits of frugivores and the potential impacts on seed dispersal remain unclear.

We investigated how avian frugivore traits differed between historic and modern assemblages of the Hawaiian Islands. We also tested how traits shifted within foraging guilds (ground vs. arboreal) to distinguish potential impacts on plants within low versus high forest strata.

Compared to historic frugivores, the modern assemblage is smaller in gape width and body mass in both ground and arboreal guilds. Wing shape did not significantly change between assemblages. From the results, we postulate that changes in the frugivore community have likely altered seed dispersal processes by reducing (a) the size of seeds consumed, (b) frugivory rates per animal and (c) seed dispersal distances.

Owing to seed size placing strong constraints on consumption, we reviewed recent studies on frugivory by modern birds in the Hawaiian Islands and compared the size of seeds consumed versus seeds available. We found that larger‐seeded plants (>8.1 mm seed width) were not consumed by modern birds and were more likely to be of conservation risk compared to smaller‐seeded plants. Consequently, dispersal limitation may threaten Hawaiian plant communities, with larger‐seeded plants at greatest risk of extinction.

Broadly, we show that extensive turnover within assemblages may lead to significant changes in functional traits, with potential knock‐on effects for mutualistic interactions and communities.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Negative effect of turbidity on prey capture for both visual and non‐visual aquatic predators
Authors: Ortega Jean C. G. , Figueiredo Bruno R. S. , da Graça Weferson J. , Agostinho Angelo A. , Bini Luis M.
Published: August 2020

Turbidity plays an important role in aquatic predator–prey interactions. Increases in turbidity are expected to reduce prey capture rates, especially for visually oriented predators. However, there is also evidence indicating that turbidity may have little or no effect on predation rates.

Here, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the relationship between turbidity and capture rate. We explored possible sources of heterogeneity in the effect sizes (capture strategy, predator's body size, relative eye size and turbidity range in the experiments) while controlling for the dependence among effects sizes and phylogenetic relationships among predator species.

We found a consistent negative effect of turbidity on prey capture and that turbidity range (manipulated in the experiments) was the main factor accounting for between‐study variation in effect sizes. Also, capture rates of both visually and non‐visually oriented predators decreased with an increase in turbidity. In addition, for visually oriented fish predators, the relative eye size did not influence the effect sizes.

Despite the paucity of studies for some groups of aquatic predators (mainly in tropical regions), we provide corroborative evidence that turbidity is a critical environmental factor controlling predator–prey interactions. This result is especially relevant considering that changes in turbidity is a human‐induced pervasive environmental alteration resulted from, among other mechanisms, runoff after deforestation, eutrophication or oligotrophication in reservoir cascades, which imply changes in predator–prey interactions.
Temperature drives caste‐specific morphological clines in ants
Authors: Brassard François , Francoeur André , Lessard Jean‐Philippe
Published: August 2020

The morphology of organisms relates to most aspects of their life history and autecology. As such, elucidating the drivers of morphological variation along environmental gradients might give insight into processes limiting species distributions. In eusocial organisms, the concept of morphology is more complex than in solitary organisms. Eusocial insects such as ants exhibit drastic morphological differences between reproductive and worker castes. How environmental selection operates on the morphology of each caste, and whether caste‐specific selection has fitness consequences is largely unknown, but is potentially crucial to understand what limits ant species' distributions.

Here we aimed to examine whether ant shape and body size covaries with climate at the scale of an entire continent, and whether such relationship might be caste specific.

We used 26,472 georeferenced morphometric measurements from 2,206 individual ants belonging to 32 closely related North American species in the genus Formica to assess how ant morphology relates to geographic variation in the abiotic environment.

Although precipitation and seasonality explained some of the geographic variation in morphology, temperature was the best predictor. Specifically, geographic variation in body size was positively related to temperature, meaning that ants are smaller in cold than in warm environments. Moreover, the strength of the relationship between size and temperature was stronger for the reproductive castes (i.e. queens and males) than for the worker caste. The shape of workers and males also varied along these large‐scale abiotic gradients. Specifically, the relative length of workers' legs, thoraxes and antennae positively related to temperature, meaning that they had shorter appendages in cold environments. In contrast, males had smaller heads, but larger thoraxes in more seasonal environments.

Overall, our results suggest that geographic variation in ambient temperature influences the morphology of ants, but that the strength of this effect is caste specific. In conclusion, whereas ant ecology has traditionally focused on workers, our study shows that considering the ecology of the reproductive castes is imperative to move forward in this field.
Response surface optimization of the water immersion extraction and macroporous resin purification processes of anhydrosafflor yellow B from Carthamus tinctorius L.
Authors: Zhou Peng , Fangma Yijia , Jin Weifeng , Jin Zhan , Li Xiaohong , He Yu
Published: August 2020

In this study,based on a developed high performance liquid chromatographic quantitative method, the suitable extraction and purification conditions of anhydrosafflor yellow B (AHSYB) from safflower were determined by response surface methodology. The optimal water immersion extraction parameters were as follows: liquid to solid ratio of 22:1; extraction temperature of 75 °C; extraction time of 35 min. Under these conditions, the maximum extraction yield of AHSYB reached 0.465%. The aqueous extract was further purified by HPD‐300 macroporous resin. The optimum adsorption conditions were: pH 2.8; adsorption flow rate of 1.9 mL/min; solution concentration of 0.06 g/mL. The optimum desorption conditions were: ethanol concentrations of 74%; desorption flow rate of 1.6 mL/min; elution volume of 4.4 BV. Under these conditions, the maximum adsorption ratio and desorption ratio reached 1.095 and 0.906 mg/g, respectively. The content of AHSYB reached 6.83%, which was 2.91 times higher than that before purification.

Practical Application

The suitable conditions for water immersion extraction and macroporous resin purification of AHSYB are first determined, which facilitates the further utilization of AHSYB as a food and drug.
r3PG – Anrpackage for simulating forest growth using the 3‐PG process‐based model
Authors: Trotsiuk Volodymyr , Hartig Florian , Forrester David I.
Published: August 2020

Process‐based forest models (PBMs) are important tools for quantifying forest growth and vulnerability, particularly under climate change. The 3‐PG model (Physiological Processes Predicting Growth) is one of the most widely used forest growth simulators for this purpose worldwide.

Here, we presentr3PG, a newFortranimplementation of 3‐PG, wrapped into anrpackage.r3PGcan simulate monospecific as well as mixtures of evergreen and deciduous tree species in even‐aged or uneven‐aged stands.

The combination ofFortranfunctions with anrinterface makes the model extremely fast. This facilitates the use ofr3PGfor extensive computer experiments and sensitivity analysis. We demonstrate this in a case study including (a) single model runs; (b) a sensitivity analysis and a full Bayesian calibration of the model and (c) spatial simulations of forest growth across Switzerland.

r3PGis faster and easier to use than previous implementations of 3‐PG in visual basic. We believe that this will make 3‐PG even more useful and popular for ecologists and climate change scientists.
Expanding the allergen repertoire of salmon and catfish
Authors: Ruethers Thimo , Taki Aya C. , Karnaneedi Shaymaviswanathan , Nie Shuai , Kalic Tanja , Dai Danyi , Daduang Sakda , Leeming Michael , Williamson Nicholas A. , Breiteneder Heimo , Mehr Sam S. , Kamath Sandip D. , Campbell Dianne E. , Lopata Andreas L.
Published: August 2020

Background

Diagnostic tests for fish allergy are hampered by the large number of under‐investigated fish species. Four salmon allergens are well‐characterized and registered with the WHO/IUIS while no catfish allergens have been described so far. In 2008, freshwater‐cultured catfish production surpassed that of salmon, the globally most‐cultured marine species. We aimed to identify, quantify, and compare all IgE‐binding proteins in salmon and catfish.

Methods

Seventy‐seven pediatric patients with clinically confirmed fish allergy underwent skin prick tests to salmon and catfish. The allergen repertoire of raw and heated protein extracts was evaluated by immunoblotting using five allergen‐specific antibodies and patients' serum followed by mass spectrometric analyses.

Results

Raw and heated extracts from catfish displayed a higher frequency of IgE‐binding compared to those from salmon (77% vs 70% and 64% vs 53%, respectively). The major fish allergen parvalbumin demonstrated the highest IgE‐binding capacity (10%‐49%), followed by triosephosphate isomerase (TPI; 19%‐34%) in raw and tropomyosin (6%‐32%) in heated extracts. Six previously unidentified fish allergens, including TPI, were registered with the WHO/IUIS. Creatine kinase from salmon and catfish was detected by IgE from 14% and 10% of patients, respectively. Catfish L‐lactate dehydrogenase, glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase, pyruvate kinase, and glucose‐6‐phosphate isomerase showed IgE‐binding for 6%‐13% of patients. In salmon, these proteins could not be separated successfully.

Conclusions

We detail the allergen repertoire of two highly farmed fish species. IgE‐binding to fish tropomyosins and TPIs was demonstrated for the first time in a large patient cohort. Tropomyosins, in addition to parvalbumins, should be considered for urgently needed improved fish allergy diagnostics.
De novo mutations in idiopathic male infertility—A pilot study
Authors: Hodžić Alenka , Maver Aleš , Plaseska‐Karanfilska Dijana , Ristanović Momčilo , Noveski Predrag , Zorn Branko , Terzic Marija , Kunej Tanja , Peterlin Borut
Published: August 2020

Study question

Are de novo mutations in the human genome associated with male infertility?

Summary answer

We identified de novo mutations in five candidate genes: SEMA5A, NEURL4, BRD2, CD1D, and CD63.

What is known already

Epidemiological and genetic studies have consistently indicated contribution of genetic factors to the etiology of male infertility, suggesting that more than 1500 genes are involved in spermatogenesis.

Study design, size, duration

First, we searched for de novo mutations in patients with idiopathic azoospermia with whole‐exome sequencing (WES). To evaluate the potential functional impact of de novo identified mutations, we analyzed their expression differences on independent testis samples with normal and impaired spermatogenesis. In the next step, we tested additional group of azoospermic patients for mutations in identified genes with de novo mutations. In addition to the analysis of de novo mutations in patients with idiopathic azoospermia, we considered other models of inheritance and searched for candidate genes harboring rare maternally inherited variants and biallelic autosomal and X‐chromosome hemizygous variants.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

We performed WES in 13 infertile males with idiopathic azoospermia and their parents. Potential functional impact of de novo identified mutations was evaluated by global gene expression profiling on 20 independent testis samples. To replicate the results, we performed WES in further 16 independent azoospermic males, which were screened for the variants in the same genes. Library preparation was performed with Nextera Coding Exome Capture Kit (Illumina), with subsequent sequencing on Illumina HiSeq 2500 platform.

Main results and the role of chance

We identified 11 de novo mutations in 10 genes of which 5 were considered potentially associated with azoospermia: SEMA5A, NEURL4, BRD2, CD1D, and CD63. All candidate genes showed significant differential expression in testis samples composed of patients with severely impaired and normal spermatogenesis. Additionally, we identified rare, potentially pathogenic mutations in the genes previously implicated in male infertility—a maternally inherited heterozygous frameshift variant in FKBPL gene and inframe deletion in UPF2 gene, homozygous frameshift variant in CLCA4 gene, and a heterozygous missense variant NR0B1 gene, which represent promising candidates for further clinical implication.

Limitations of the study, reasons for caution

We provided limited functional support for involvement of de novo identified genes in pathogenesis of male infertility, based on expression analysis. Additionally, the sample size was limited.

Wider implications of the findings

We provide support that de novo mutations might contribute to male infertility and propose five genes as potentially implicated in its pathogenesis.
Soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase to placental growth factor ratio in different stages of early‐onset fetal growth restriction and small for gestational age
Authors: Garcia‐Manau Pablo , Mendoza Manel , Bonacina Erika , Garrido‐Gimenez Carmen , Fernandez‐Oliva Antoni , Zanini Julia , Catalan Marina , Tur Helena , Serrano Berta , Carreras Elena
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Increased soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase to placental growth factor ratio (sFlt‐1/PlGF) has been demonstrated in early‐onset fetal growth restriction (FGR) and small for gestational age (SGA). sFlt‐1/PlGF cut‐offs have been described to assess preeclampsia severity; however, sFlt‐1/PlGF values present in early‐onset SGA and different FGR severity stages remain unknown. Hence, the objective of this study was to describe and compare the sFlt‐1/PlGF values and pregnancy outcomes among early‐onset SGA/FGR stages.

Material and methods

This is a prospective case‐control study conducted at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital. Singleton pregnancies with estimated fetal weight <10th centile and a control group of uncomplicated pregnancies between 20+0 and 31+6 weeks of gestation were enrolled. Study women were classified at diagnosis into different stages, according to estimated fetal weight centile and Doppler ultrasound. sFlt‐1/PlGF serum concentrations were measured at diagnosis and, together with pregnancy outcomes, were compared among FGR severity stages, SGA, and controls. Finally, correlations between sFlt‐1/PlGF values and time to delivery, gestational age at delivery, days of neonatal admission, and birthweight z‐scores were investigated.

Results

Among the 207 women enrolled, 32 (15.4%) had uncomplicated pregnancies, 49 (23.7%) pregnancies showed SGA, and 126 (60.9%) involved FGR (92 being stage I, 17 stage II, and 17 stage III). SGA and controls had similar median sFlt‐1/PlGF values (25.7 vs 27.1, P > .05) and pregnancy outcomes. However, all FGR stages had significantly poorer outcomes and greater sFlt‐1/PlGF values than those of SGA and controls. Furthermore, median values differed significantly among all FGR severity stages (9.76 for stage I; 284.3 for stage II, and 625.02 for stage III, P < .05) increasing with FGR severity as well as the frequency of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, a significant correlation was found between greater sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio values and gestational age at delivery, time from diagnosis to delivery, birthweight z‐scores, and time in neonatal intensive care unit (r = −.637, r = −.576, r = −.161, and r = .311, respectively).

Conclusions

Values of sFlt‐1/PlGF at diagnosis permit early‐onset FGR/SGA severity classification with good correlation with Doppler ultrasound findings and the occurrence of adverse outcomes. Thus, sFlt‐1/PlGF could aid in early‐onset FGR/SGA severity classification and clinical management when Doppler assessment is not feasible.
The indication for fertility preservation in women with Turner syndrome should not only be based on the ovarian reserve but also on the genotype and expected future health status
Authors: Nawroth Frank , Schüring Andreas N. , von Wolff Michael
Published: August 2020

Fertility preservation in women with Turner syndrome is highly controversial. Some strongly recommend freezing of ovarian tissue at a young age, others do not. The controversy is partly due to different perspectives and professions. Biologists prefer to freeze young ovaries with high follicle density, reproductive physicians want to avoid risky operations and iatrogenic infertility by removing one ovary, and cardiologists and obstetricians warn against the risks of later pregnancies. Accordingly, fertility preservation in young women with Turner syndrome is more than just the freezing of ovarian tissue or oocytes. Fertility preservation requires a balanced decision considering the conservation of fertility, the protection of reproductive health, and future health consequences. Therefore, fertility preservation strategies should be based not only on the individual ovarian reserve but also on the genotype and the expected cardiac health status to decide what is the best option: to freeze tissue or alternatively to wait and see.
Advancing Primed Goal Research in Organizational Behavior
Authors: Chen Xiao , Latham Gary P. , Piccolo Ronald F. , Itzchakov Guy
Published: August 2020

In this rejoinder, we address three issues discussed in the commentaries on our lead article: possible ethical issues in goal priming in organizational settings, whether goal priming is restricted to routine behaviors, and the relationship of goal priming with self‐fulling prophecies and an organization’s climate. Finally, our data were examined by an independent researcher who tested for publication bias.
The importance of social relationships and loneliness: An inclusive research project in Spain
Authors: Rojas‐Pernia Susana , Haya‐Salmón Ignacio , Lastra‐Cagigas Santiago , Álvarez‐Sáenz de Santa María Lucia
Published: August 2020

Accessible summary

This article presents part of the research project we carried out on the importance of social relationships and loneliness in young people with and without intellectual disabilities.

We interviewed 23 young people during our research which was developed over more than a year and a half.

Social relationships are important for young people both with and without learning disabilities. A person may want or need to be alone, but nobody wants to feel lonely.

We wrote this article collaboratively. People with a intellectual disabilities do not often contribute to written papers.

This article presents the results of a project carried out by a group of researchers with and without intellectual disabilities on the importance of social relationships and loneliness. We wanted to find out about the experience of loneliness in young people with and without intellectual disabilities and know whether this was an important issue for them too. We interviewed a total of 23 young people during our research which was developed over more than a year and a half. This article has been organised into three parts. In the first part, the two academic researchers outline the concept of inclusive research highlighting the value of recognising and making the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities visible. Following this, the four authors describe how the research group was formed and the methodological decisions that were made. Finally, we report the results of the research and the main conclusions. The young people with and without disabilities we interviewed told us that nobody wants to feel lonely. We believe that it is important for other researchers at the university to recognise our work and be encouraged to implement inclusive research processes.
Early endocytosis as a key to understanding mechanisms of plasma membrane tension regulation in filamentous fungi
Authors: Mazheika Igor , Voronko Oksana , Kamzolkina Olga
Published: August 2020

Background Information

Two main systems regulate plasma membrane tension (PMT) and provide a close connection between the protoplast and the cell wall in fungi: turgor pressure and the actin cytoskeleton. These systems work together with the plasma membrane focal adhesion to the cell wall and their contribution to fungal cell organization and physiology has been partially studied. However, it remains controversial in model filamentous ascomycetes and oomycetes and even less investigated in filamentous basidiomycetes. Early endocytosis can be used to research the mechanisms regulating PMT since the dynamics of early endocytosis is largely dependent on this tension.

Results

This study examined the effects of actin polymerization inhibitors and hyperosmotic shock on early endocytosis and cell morphology in two filamentous basidiomycetes. The main obtained results are: (i) the depolymerisation of F‐actin leads to the fast formation of endocytic pits while inhibiting of their scission from the plasma membrane and (ii) the moderate hyperosmotic shock does not affect the dynamics of early endocytosis. These and our other results have allowed suggesting a curtain model for the regulation of PMT in basidiomycetes.

Conclusions and significance

According to the proposed curtain model, the PMT in many non‐apical cells of hyphae is more often regulated not by turgor pressure but by a system of actin driver cables that are associated with the proteins of the focal adhesion sites. The change in PMT occurs similar to the movement of a curtain along the curtain rod using the curtain drivers. This model addresses the fundamental properties of the fungal structure and physiology. It requires confirmation including the currently technically unavailable high‐quality labelling of the actin cytoskeleton of the basidiomycetes.
Long noncoding RNA PICSAR/miR‐588/EIF6 axis regulates tumorigenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma by activating PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Zhikui , Mo Huanye , Sun Liankang , Wang Liang , Chen Tianxiang , Yao Bowen , Liu Runkun , Niu Yongshen , Tu Kangsheng , Xu Qiuran , Yang Nan
Published: August 2020

Accumulating evidence has identified long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) as regulators in tumor progression and development. Here, we elucidated the function and possible molecular mechanisms of the effect of lncRNA‐PICSAR (p38 inhibited cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma associated lincRNA) on the biological behaviors of HCC. In the present study, we found that PICSAR was upregulated in HCC tissues and cells and correlated with progression and poor prognosis in HCC patients. Gain‐ and loss‐of‐function experiments indicated that PICSAR enhanced cell proliferation, colony formation, and cell cycle progression and inhibited apoptosis of HCC cells. PICSAR could function as a competing endogenous RNA by sponging microRNA (miR)‐588 in HCC cells. Mechanically, miR‐588 inhibited HCC progression and alternation of miR‐588 reversed the promotive effects of PICSAR on HCC cells. In addition, we confirmed that eukaryotic initiation factor 6 (EIF6) was a direct target of miR‐588 in HCC and mediated the biological effects of miR‐588 and PICSAR in HCC, resulting in PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway activation. Our data identified PICSAR as a novel oncogenic lncRNA associated with malignant clinical outcomes in HCC patients. PICSAR played an oncogenic role by targeting miR‐588 and subsequently promoted EIF6 expression and PI3K/AKT/mTOR activation in HCC. Our results revealed that PICSAR could be a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC.
Genetic and epigenetic profiling indicates the proximal tubule origin of renal cancers in end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Ishihara Hiroki , Yamashita Satoshi , Liu Yu‐Yu , Hattori Naoko , El‐Omar Omar , Ikeda Takashi , Fukuda Hironori , Yoshida Kazuhiko , Takagi Toshio , Taneda Sekiko , Kondo Tsunenori , Nagashima Yoji , Tanabe Kazunari , Ushijima Toshikazu
Published: August 2020

End‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients on dialysis therapy have a higher incidence of renal cell carcinomas (RCCs), which consist of 2 major histopathological types: clear‐cell RCCs (ESRD‐ccRCCs) and acquired cystic disease (ACD)‐associated RCCs. However, their genetic and epigenetic alterations are still poorly understood. Here, we investigated somatic mutations, copy number alterations (CNAs), and DNA methylation profiles in 9 ESRD‐ccRCCs and 7 ACD‐associated RCCs to identify their molecular alterations and cellular origins. Targeted sequencing of 409 cancer‐related genes, including VHL, PBRM1, SETD2, BAP1, KDM5C, MET, KMT2C (MLL3), and TP53, showed ESRD‐ccRCCs harbored frequent VHL mutations, while ACD‐associated RCCs did not. CNA analysis showed that ESRD‐ccRCCs had a frequent loss of chromosome 3p while ACD‐associated RCCs had a gain of chromosome 16. Beadarray methylation analysis showed that ESRD‐ccRCCs had methylation profiles similar to those of sporadic ccRCCs, while ACD‐associated RCCs had profiles similar to those of papillary RCCs. Expression analysis of genes whose expression levels are characteristic to individual segments of a nephron showed that ESRD‐ccRCCs and ACD‐associated RCCs had high expression of proximal tubule cell marker genes, while chromophobe RCCs had high expression of distal tubule cell/collecting duct cell marker genes. In conclusion, ESRD‐ccRCCs and ACD‐associated RCCs had mutation and methylation profiles similar to those of sporadic ccRCCs and papillary RCCs, respectively, and these 2 histopathological types of RCCs were indicated to have originated from proximal tubule cells of the nephron.
Effects of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with or without intensity‐modulated radiotherapy for patients with rectal cancer
Authors: He Fang , Yu Li , Ding Yi , Li Zhen‐Hui , Wang Jian , Zheng Jian , Chen Hai‐Yang , Liu Shuai , Pang Xiao‐Lin , Ajani Jaffer A. , Wan Xiang‐Bo
Published: August 2020

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by total mesorectal excision and adjuvant chemotherapy is the standard regimen for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). However, whether and to which extent neoadjuvant radiotherapy could be removed from nCRT for patients with LARC is still unclear. This was a multicenter, retrospectively recruited, prospectively maintained cohort study. A propensity score matching model was employed to minimize potential confounding factors between subgroup patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (nCT) or nCRT. Overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS), local recurrence‐free survival (LRFS), and distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS) were assessed between subgroup patients by Kaplan‐Meier analysis, log‐rank test, and Cox regression model. In total, 3233 consecutive patients, consist of 571 nCT and 2662 nCRT‐treated cases, were included. After propensity score matching (1:4), 565 nCT‐treated patients were matched to 1852 nCRT‐treated patients. Compared with nCT, nCRT treatment indeed decreased 3‐y local recurrence (10.0% vs 6.6%, P = .026), but had no impact on OS, DFS and DMFS (all P > .05) for LARC. Stratified analysis further confirmed that nCRT treatment was associated with higher 3‐y LRFS and 3‐y DFS than nCT treatment for baseline high‐risk subgroup (cT4, cN+, and cIII stage) patients (all P < .05). Conversely, for the baseline low‐risk subgroup patients (cT3, cN0, and cII stage), nCRT and nCT treatment had similar 3‐y OS, LRFS, DFS, and DMFS (all P > .05). The administration of neoadjuvant radiotherapy for LARC patients might be determined by baseline risk classification, the high‐risk individuals could be delivered while low‐risk patients might be omitted.
Stereo Inverse Brightness Modulation for Guidance in Dynamic Panorama Videos in Virtual Reality
Authors: Grogorick Steve , Tauscher Jan‐Philipp , Heesen Nikkel , Castillo Susana , Magnor Marcus
Published: August 2020

The peak of virtual reality offers new exciting possibilities for the creation of media content but also poses new challenges. Some areas of interest might be overlooked because the visual content fills up a large portion of viewers' visual field. Moreover, this content is available in 360° around the viewer, yielding locations completely out of sight, making, for example, recall or storytelling in cinematic Virtual Reality (VR) quite difficult.

In this paper, we present an evaluation of Stereo Inverse Brightness Modulation for effective and subtle guidance of participants' attention while navigating dynamic virtual environments. The used technique exploits the binocular rivalry effect from human stereo vision and was previously shown to be effective in static environments. Moreover, we propose an extension of the method for successful guidance towards target locations outside the initial visual field.

We conduct three perceptual studies, using 13 distinct panorama videos and two VR systems (a VR head mounted display and a fully immersive dome projection system), to investigate (1) general applicability to dynamic environments, (2) stimulus parameter and VR system influence, and (3) effectiveness of the proposed extension for out‐of‐sight targets. Our results prove the applicability of the method to dynamic environments while maintaining its unobtrusive appearance.
Gender diversity and the spillover effects of women on boards
Authors: Boutchkova Maria , Gonzalez Angelica , Main Brian G.M. , Sila Vathunyoo
Published: August 2020

Research Question/Issue

This study seeks to understand the circumstances under which board behavior is affected by gender diversity. The “reasoned action approach” is used as a lens through which to assess the extent that the behavior of the board varies with its gender diversity.

Research Findings/Insights

The study uses archival data from a panel sample of 80,395 directorships observed between 1998 and 2012. Boardroom gender diversity is significantly related to director personal responsibility (board attendance), CEO accountability, and risk taking. Our findings highlight the key importance of the exposure of male directors to women directors on boards beyond the focal board. This suggests a positive externality or a spillover effect.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

The empirical findings of this study highlight the importance of allowing for the operation of social norms when studying boardroom decision making. Experience gained by male directors of working with women directors on other boards, beyond the focal board, is shown to enable women directors to contribute more effectively.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

This study offers encouragement to policy makers' intent on increasing the presence of women on corporate boards. These results point to a spillover effect: there is an observed impact of women on boards that acts not only directly on the board on which they sit but also through the network of boards on which their male counterparts sit.

Video Abstract

https://youtu.be/ZlADhUUdZrA
Spatio‐temporal dynamics of the threatened elkhorn coral Acropora palmata: Implications for conservation
Authors: Chen Yi‐Hsiu , Shertzer Kyle W. , Viehman T. Shay
Published: August 2020

Aim

Species distribution models (SDMs) can be useful for predicting spatial dynamics. For species vulnerable to climate change, much attention has focused on predicting the future range of occurrence. However, predicted range changes provide little information about the potential impacts on population structure. Here, we develop and apply an SDM approach that incorporates population demography of a threatened coral species (U.S. Endangered Species Act) and aim to provide guidance for conservation efforts. We additionally use projected climate change scenarios to predict the potential future range of occurrence and spatial population structure.

Location

U.S. Virgin Islands, United States.

Methods

We applied process‐based dynamic range models to jointly model the spatio‐temporal population dynamics and spatial habitat suitability of the threatened elkhorn coral Acropora palmata in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The approach integrates information from multiple data sources under a hierarchical Bayesian framework. The models connect two components: (1) a niche model that correlates environmental predictors with demographic rates and (2) a size‐structured population model that describes local population dynamics and dispersal.

Results

The model predicts that, under scenarios of elevated sea surface temperature and significant wave height, (a) A. palmata will occur at only a small proportion of its potential habitat (water depth ≤ 20 m) and (b) population structure of the colony will shift from larger towards smaller size classes.

Main conclusions

For A. palmata, restricted geographic range and smaller colony sizes, as predicted by the models, would limit future population success. In general, the inclusion of demographic structure into a population range model provides critical information for conservation or restoration efforts in the context of climate change.
Age‐ and sex‐based differences in patients with acute pericarditis
Authors: Lazaros George , Antonopoulos Alexios S. , Lazarou Emilia , Vlachopoulos Charalambos , Vogiatzi Georgia , Vassilopoulos Dimitrios , Tousoulis Dimitris
Published: August 2020

Background

Acute pericarditis has a wide spectrum of clinical presentations largely depending on underlying aetiologies. We assessed the role of age and sex in the clinical features and outcome of acute pericarditis.

Materials and methods

A total of 240 consecutive patients hospitalized with a first episode of acute pericarditis were included. At baseline demographics, clinical features, laboratory and imaging findings and medical therapy were recorded. Patients were followed up for at least 18 months for complications. Data comparisons were performed according to sex and age (≤60 or >60 years).

Results

The male/female ratio was 1.42, and 56% of patients were >60 years. Younger patients depicted more often chest pain (P = .001), fever and rubs (P < .001 for both), ST elevation and PR depression (P = .032 and .009, respectively), higher CRP values (P = .009) and less often dyspnoea (P = .046) and pericardial effusion (P = .036). Moreover, they received less often glucocorticoids (P < .001) and depicted less atrial fibrillation (P = .003) and a higher rate of recurrent pericarditis (P = .013). After multivariate adjustment for confounders, age >60 years remained an independent predictor for a lower risk of recurrent pericarditis (hazard ratio 0.60, 95% CI: 0.39‐0.96, P = .033). Regarding sex, females were older (P = .007), showed less often ST elevation and PR depression (P < .001 and .002, respectively) and had a higher baseline heart rate (P = .02). Sex was not associated with recurrent pericarditis risk.

Conclusions

Patients with acute pericarditis have distinct presenting clinical, biochemical and prognostic features according to age and sex. Awareness of such differences is important for clinical decision‐making.
TMS over the posterior cerebellum modulates motor cortical excitability in response to facial emotional expressions
Authors: Ferrari Chiara , Fiori Francesca , Suchan Boris , Plow Ela B. , Cattaneo Zaira
Published: August 2020

Evidence suggests that the posterior cerebellum is involved in emotional processing. Specific mechanisms by which the cerebellum contributes to the perception of and reaction to the emotional state of others are not well‐known. It is likely that perceived emotions trigger anticipatory/preparatory motor changes. However, the extent to which the cerebellum modulates the activity of the motor cortex to contribute to emotional processing has not been directly investigated. In this study, we assessed whether the activity of the posterior cerebellum influences the modulation of motor cortical excitability in response to emotional stimuli. To this end, we transiently disrupted the neural activity of the left posterior cerebellum using 1 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and examined its effect on motor cortical excitability witnessed during emotional face processing (in comparison to the effects of sham rTMS). Motor excitability was measured as TMS‐based motor evoked potentials (MEPs) recorded from bilateral first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscles during the viewing of negative emotional (i.e. fearful) and neutral facial expressions. In line with previous evidence, we found that MEP amplitude was increased during the viewing of fearful compared to neutral faces. Critically, when left posterior cerebellar activity was transiently inhibited with 1 Hz rTMS, we observed a reduction in amplitude of MEPs recorded from the contralateral (right) motor cortex during the viewing of emotional (but not neutral) faces. In turn, inhibition of the left posterior cerebellum did not affect the amplitude of MEPs recorded from the ipsilateral motor cortex. Our findings suggest that the posterolateral (left) cerebellum modulates motor cortical response to negative emotional stimuli and may serve as an interface between limbic, cognitive, and motor systems.
When Should I Use a Measure to Support Instructional Improvement at Scale? The Importance of Considering Both Intended and Actual Use in Validity Arguments
Authors: Ing Marsha , Chinen Starlie , Jackson Kara , Smith Thomas M.
Published: August 2020

Despite the ease of accessing a wide range of measures, little attention is given to validity arguments when considering whether to use the measure for a new purpose or in a different context. Making a validity argument has historically focused on the intended interpretation and use. There has been a press to consider both the intended and actual interpretations and how users make sense of the data when constructing validity arguments, but the practice is not widespread. This paper contributes to existing research on validity by highlighting the value of attending to the actual interpretation and use of a measure aimed at supporting instructional improvement in mathematics. We describe the use of the same measure across two contexts to highlight the importance of attending to characteristics of both users and the contexts in which the measures are used when assessing the validity of inferences for the purpose of instructional improvement efforts.