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Objectives: To evaluate the potential of a fully automatic artificial intelligence (AI)-driven computed tomography (CT) software prototype to quantify severity of COVID-19 infection on chest CT in relationship with clinical and laboratory data.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 50 patients with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 infection who had received chest CT between March and July 2020. Pulmonary opacifications were automatically evaluated by an AI-driven software and correlated with clinical and laboratory parameters using Spearman-Rho and linear regression analysis. We divided the patients into sub cohorts with or without necessity of intensive care unit (ICU) treatment. Sub cohort differences were evaluated employing Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney-Test.Results: We included 50 CT examinations (mean age, 57.24 years), of whom 24 (48%) had an ICU stay. Extent of COVID-19 like opacities on chest CT showed correlations (all p < 0.001 if not otherwise stated) with occurrence of ICU stay (R = 0.74), length of ICU stay (R = 0.81), lethal outcome (R = 0.56) and length of hospital stay (R = 0.33, p < 0.05). The opacities extent was correlated with laboratory parameters: neutrophil count (NEU) (R = 0.60), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (R = 0.60), troponin (TNTHS) (R = 0.55) and c-reactive protein (CRP) (R = 0.51). Differences (p < 0.001) between ICU group and non-ICU group concerned longer length of hospital stay (24.04 vs. 10.92 days), higher opacity score (12.50 vs. 4.96) and severity of laboratory data changes such as c-reactive protein (11.64 vs. 5.07 mg/dl, p < 0.01).Conclusions: Automatically AI-driven quantification of opacities on chest CT correlates with laboratory and clinical data in patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection and may serve as non-invasive predictive marker for clinical course of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigations on the internal anatomy of stalked jellyfishes (Staurozoa) are crucial for species descriptions and systematic studies on this taxon. Contrast-enhanced X-ray micro computed tomography (micro-CT) has increased the opportunities for morphological descriptions of soft-bodied invertebrates in the last decade, but only few studies have focused on cnidarian taxa so far. We performed a micro-CT-based morphological study on the staurozoan Craterolophus convolvulus (Johnston, 1835) including the juvenile stage of the species for the first time. Virtual sections allowed for the analysis of specific anatomical details and revealed stage specific differences. For example, the peduncle length was longer in relation to the calyx length, the arrangement of arms in pairs was more pronounced, and the number of secondary tentacles and adhesive pads was lower in the juvenile specimen. Longitudinal virtual sections revealed the internal septa (claustra) with triangular lower edges in the adult and semicircular lower edges in the juvenile specimen. The primary tentacles, only present in the juvenile stage, had distinct distal swellings and adhesive pads at their stem bases. For both stages, our results revealed an internal canal system at the tip of the arms previously described as "intertentacular lobules". Virtual sections also clarified the organization of gonads in densely folded gonad bands, which form sac-like pouches with small pathways. Even though our micro-CT data allowed for the discrimination of different tissues such as epidermis, gastrodermis, mesoglea, gonads, and muscles, their resolution was not sufficient to depict micro-anatomical details of gametes and nematocysts, which can be relevant for morphological studies on stauromedusae. Thus, micro-CT cannot replace histological standard techniques, but allow for a better spatial understanding of anatomical details and morphological features, facilitating taxonomic and phylogenetic studies on Staurozoa and other soft-bodied cnidarians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital lifecycle records provide a high potential for securing and passing of plant-specific information. Today, however, their use is limited to individual life phases and in-house applications. Further use cases such as the use in the context of an inter-company knowledge management are not yet implemented. The potentials and challenges of digital lifecycle records in networked value creation structures are examined and evaluated in this article using the example of inter-company knowledge management. As a result, recommendations for action and a specification of further research needs are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autonomous control methods (ACMs) are considered as a promising approach to deal with an increasingly dynamic and complex production environment. However, existing ACMs do not sufficiently utilize the potential arising out of the plannability offered by condition based maintenance orders in the context of predictive maintenance when doing dynamic and myopic production scheduling. In order to better leverage the potentials of a combined approach, this work presents a negotiation environment based on a reversed contract net protocol to enable a monetary comparability of both order types. This is intended to realize a better integration of condition based maintenance orders into the reactive machine allocation decision-making of ACMs. Furthermore, factors influencing the bid amounts of orders are presented and resulting monetary and time-related inconsistencies due to the different value-adding character of both order types are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Evidence based midwifery education and practice are fundamental to assure high quality care of childbearing women, also with complications. In Poland, midwifery education includes aspects of participation in the abortion. A cross-sectional study was designed to describe the attitudes towards abortion at the beginning and at the end of students' university education. The study was aimed to verify change of attitudes throughout the course of the university education. Most of the students approved abortion if the pregnancy constitutes a threat to woman's health or life, results from a rape, or whenever the fetus presents with a lethal defect. More than a half did not approve participation in the abortion if the fetus presents with a non-lethal defect. Generally, the acceptance rates were significantly higher among the final year students, but more than a half of them stated, that the abortion-related topics were inadequately addressed in their study curriculum. That bring to the conclusion that higher rates of abortion acceptance among the final year students, were not necessarily a manifestation of informed approval for this procedure, but rather a form of a "systemic" adjustment. Midwifery program need to be revised to support students in developing informed and evidence-based attitudes toward abortion. Highlights • Although available under some circumstances, abortion is controversial in highly religious Poland. • High quality midwifery care includes access to abortion. • Midwifery education in Poland include aspects of participation in the abortion. • Most midwifery students do not accept abortion as a part of future practice. • Midwifery students claim not enough training to be involved in the abortion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Assessment of structural cartilage damage is of high scientific and clinical interest. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a light-based cross-sectional imaging modality that allows the real-time assessment of articular cartilage at near-histological resolution. Algorithm routines for the detection, parameterization and quantification of sub-surface defects as assessed by OCT were implemented and validated in this study. Standard defects of 0.9 mm, 1.1 mm and 1.3 mm diameter were created in the sub-surface regions of macroscopically intact human articular cartilage samples (n = 60 defects of variable sizes in n = 20 samples). Subsequently, samples were scanned by 3D OCT and defect size, height, width and distance to the surface were determined based on the algorithm and related to manual measurements. Histology served as the standard-of-reference. Statistical analysis included one-way ANOVA's and Tukey's post-hoc test. All defects were correctly identified by the algorithm, while five structural tissue inhomogeneities were erroneously marked as defects (sensitivity 100%, specificity: 92.3%). Inter-modality analysis revealed no significant differences in terms of defect area, height or width within the different defect sizes, while the distance to the surface was significantly different. The comprehensive algorithm-based characterization of cartilage defects is consistent and reliable and allows their more objective evaluation. Given further research in this field, OCT and OCT-based quantitative measures may become clinically useful in the arthroscopic detection and evaluation of sub-surface cartilage defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Product-Service Systems (PSS) are a promising opportunity for manufacturing companies to realign their value creation process towards customer-oriented and resource efficient solutions. However, many companies still struggle to create new business models based on providing efficient solutions instead of physical products. The concept of PSS has been the subject of research for many years, yet there is a severe lack of utilizing the most crucial resource of the information age: Data. The authors propose products enriched with digital services based on customer data to develop a cohesive value proposition as the basis for business model innovation in manufacturing companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In light of continuously accumulating data and knowledge on major human pathogens, comprehensive and up-to-date sources of easily accessible information are urgently required. The Aureo Wiki database ( http://aureowiki.med.uni-greifswald.de ) provides detailed information on the genes and proteins of clinically and experimentally relevant S. aureus strains, currently covering NCTC 8325, COL, Newman, USA300_FPR3757, and N315. By implementing a pan-genome approach, Aureo Wiki facilitates the transfer of knowledge gained in studies with different S. aureus strains, thus supporting functional annotation and better understanding of this organism. All data related to a given gene or gene product is compiled on a strain-specific gene page. The gene pages contain sequence-based information complemented by data on, for example, protein function and localization, transcriptional regulation, and gene expression. The information provided is connected via links to other databases and published literature. Importantly, orthologous genes of the individual strains, which are linked by a pan-genome gene identifier and a unified gene name, are presented side by side using strain-specific tabs. The respective pan-genome gene page contains an orthologue table for 32 S. aureus strains, a multiple-strain genome viewer, a protein sequence alignment as well as other comparative information. The data collected in Aureo Wiki is also accessible through various download options in order to support bioinformatics applications. In addition, based on two large-scale gene expression data sets, Aureo Wiki provides graphical representations of condition-dependent mRNA levels and protein profiles under various laboratory and infection-related conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allergies are complex diseases featuring local tissue inflammation, which is characterized by an exaggerated type 2 immune response to environmental compounds known as allergens. Pollens, environmental fungi, and house dust mites are examples of common allergens. Bacteria have a dual role in allergy. Usually, they are associated with protection, however, certain bacterial species promote the development and exacerbation of allergic inflammation. Notably, IgE antibodies specific for bacterial antigens are found in the sera of allergic individuals. This implies that some bacterial factors are allergens, eliciting a specific type 2 immune response. However, to date, only a few of these are molecularly defined. This review summarizes the current knowledge about known bacterial allergens, and it provides an overview of the available techniques for the discovery of new allergens as well as for measuring the immune responses directed against them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To determine the effect of short-term cold-water immersion (CWI) on muscle pain sensitivity after maximal anaerobic power training in track cyclists. Design Repeated measures. Setting University Laboratory. Participants 12 elite sprint track cyclists (age 24,75 ± 4,23 years). Main outcome measures PPT measurements were made on dominant lower extremity (right) in 20 reference points, including anterior thigh muscles, posterior thigh muscles and posterior cuff muscles. PPT levels were measured: 1) before workout, 2) immediately after workout, but before CWI 3) 1 h after CWI and 4) 12 h after CWI. Mean PPT values for each muscle group per participant were calculated for further statistical analysis. Results The average PPT for anterior thigh muscles decreased significantly after effort (p = 0.001) and increased significantly 1 h after CWI (p = 0.048). In posterior thigh muscles PPT decreased significantly after effort (p = 0.014) and increased significantly 1 h and 12 h after CWI (p = 0.045 and p = 0.25 respectively). However, in posterior cuff muscles PPT decreased only after effort (p = 0.001). Conclusions Short-term repeated sprint exercise appears to affect PPT in track cyclists. This study have reported that CWI in 5 °C for 5 min have had a beneficial effect in minimizing PPT 1 h post repeated maximal sprint training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Global experiences in general surgery suggest that previous abdominal surgery may negatively influence different aspects of perioperative care. As the incidence of bariatric procedures has recently increased, it is essential to assess such correlations in bariatric surgery. Objectives To assess whether previous abdominal surgery influences the course and outcomes of laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Setting Seven referral bariatric centers in Poland. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 2413 patients; 1706 patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) matched the inclusion criteria. Patients with no history of abdominal surgery were included as group 1, while those who had undergone at least 1 abdominal surgery were included as group 2. Results Group 2 had a significantly prolonged median operation time for RYGB ( P = .012), and the longest operation time was observed in patients who had previously undergone surgeries in both the upper and lower abdomen ( P = .002). Such a correlation was not found in SG cases ( P = .396). Groups 1 and 2 had similar rates of intraoperative adverse events and postoperative complications ( P = .562 and P = .466, respectively). Group 2 had a longer median duration of hospitalization than group 1 ( P = .034), while the readmission rate was similar between groups ( P = .079). There was no significant difference between groups regarding the influence of the long-term effects of bariatric treatment on weight loss (percentage of follow-up was 55%). Conclusions Previous abdominal surgery prolongs the operative time of RYGB and the duration of postoperative hospitalization, but does not affect the long-term outcomes of bariatric treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Borrelia miyamotoi is an emerging human pathogen that causes a relapsing fever-like disease named B. miyamotoi disease. The bacterium belongs to the relapsing fever borreliae, and similar to spirochetes of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato group, it is transmitted only by hard ticks of the Ixodes ricinus complex. To date, B. miyamotoi has not been demonstrated to cause illness in dogs or cats, and is poorly documented in veterinary medicine. The aim of this study was to determine the B. miyamotoi presence in (i) host-seeking ticks and (ii) engorged Ixodes sp. ticks collected from dogs and cats during their inspection in veterinary clinics of the city of Poznań, west-central Poland. Host-seeking ticks were sampled in dog walking areas localized in urban forested recreational sites of the city. In this study, 1,059 host-seeking and 837 engorged I. ricinus ticks collected from 680 tick-infested animals (567 dogs and 113 cats) were screened. Additionally, 31 I. hexagonus ticks (one larva, 13 nymphs, and 17 females) were collected from three cats; one larva and one nymph were collected from two dogs; and one dog was infested with a single Dermacentor reticulatus female. Borrelia DNA was identified by the amplification and sequencing of the V4 hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA gene and flaB gene fragments. DNA of B. miyamotoi was detected in 22 (2.1%) of the host-seeking ticks (in all developmental tick stages and in all study areas). In addition, the engorged I. ricinus ticks exhibited a similar B. miyamotoi presence (1.8%). Fifteen I. ricinus ticks collected from animals tested positive for the presence of B. miyamotoi DNA, and the DNA of B. miyamotoi was observed in three (9.1%; one female and two nymphs) I. hexagonus ticks. The single D. reticulatus female collected from a dog tested PCR-negative for the bacterium. The results of this study demonstrated the establishment and broad presence of the bacterium in tick populations from different urban ecosystems of the city of Poznań. The lack of difference in the mean infection presence of animal-derived and host-seeking I. ricinus ticks suggests that the systematic surveillance of pets may be useful for the evaluation of human exposure to B. miyamotoi infected ticks in urban areas. Additional studies are required to further elucidate the role of domestic and wild carnivores in the epidemiology of B. miyamotoi , which remains unknown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bottom ash (BA) samples from a municipal waste incinerator in Poland were collected to investigate metallic components. Numerous metal-rich phases were present in the BA as a part of the incombustible waste fraction, concentrated and modified during thermal treatment. Metallic components in the BA occurred as heterogeneous assemblages of elements with various oxygen content. Fe- and Al-rich occurrences prevailed other types of compositions (e.g. Cu-, Zn- and Ti-rich). Elements in metal-rich phases co-occurred with each other (e.g. Fe occurred with Si, Ca, P, Al and Ti; Al occurred with Fe, Si and Ca; Zn occurred with Ca, Al and Si). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incineration products composition is dependent on the incineration technology, operating conditions and also on the waste feed composition, which can change seasonally, depending on the temporal growth of the population due to tourism, micro-industry seasonality, intensity of atmospheric precipitation and other factors. Seasonal variations in potentially valuable elements concentrations in incineration products are visible but their overall content is low, therefore this material should not be considered as a source of valuable elements. Due to high content of phosphorus (7.5 wt%) only the fly ash can be considered as a potential source of this critical raw material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most harvestman species are dependent on high humidity levels and amenable temperatures for homeostasis. While they are known to actively choose environments with these conditions, no thermo-/hygroreceptor has yet been identified in harvestmen. Using electron microscopy, we investigated the ultrastructure of two types of hair sensilla of the armored harvestman Heteromitobates discolor (Laniatores, Gonyleptidae): namely the sensillum basiconicum and the hooded sensillum. Both structures occur in small numbers ( sensilla basiconica : 28 units; hooded sensilla: 4 units) and are distributed on the distal parts of the legs. On the distalmost tarsomeres I and II, the receptor cells of paired sensilla basiconica and single hooded sensillum occupy a large volume of the inner tissue, and appear tightly associated. The sensillum basiconicum is innervated by 3-4 dendrites and has a longitudinal slit giving the impression of a shaft with two flaps, resembling a beak. The slit probably allows for evaporation of sensillum lymph. The hooded sensillum is innervated by two bundles of three dendrites each, has two pore-like structures on its tip and displays an unusual reticulate cuticle of the shaft. Details of shaft cuticle, the evidence of evaporation of sensillum lymph, and specific innervation patterns support our hypothesis that sensilla basiconica are thermo- and/or hygroreceptors. Even though the definite function of hooded sensilla remains unclear, its putative receptor modalities are assessed by means of specific ultrastructures. Finally, we discuss with regard to functional ultrastructures as to whether the evaporation system of sensilla basiconica fits mechanisms of hygroreception as known from current literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal solid waste incineration residues from one of the Polish incineration plants were sampled to characterize the distribution of metallic elements among them. Those elements previously dispersed within the waste mass, as a result of incineration processes were unequally distributed to bottom ash (BA), fly ash (FA) and air pollution control residues (APC) due to their physical properties, form of occurrence and characteristics of the incineration system. Fe, Cu, Cr were concentrated in BA; Mg, Ti in FA; Pb, Sn in APC. Beside them several elements were equally distributed among BA and FA (Al, Mn), and FA and APC (Zn). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sewage sludge thermal utilization leads to production of fly ash and APC residues which may contain elevated amounts of some metallic or toxic elements (Fe, Zn, Pb, Sn, Au, Hg, Cd, As). Distribution of these elements in studied fly ash and APC residues was unequal and dependent on their melting temperature. Metals in fly ash are present as Fe-rich grains and rims around Si-glass whereas in APC metallic components are mostly represented by Sn-rich inclusions dispersed in matrix, Ca-phosphates or as separate micro-grains. Elements concentrations were elevated but overall content was low thus disqualifying the material in terms of recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ixodes ricinus L. is the commonest tick encountered by humans in Central Europe and the most important vector of tick-borne diseases (TBD) in Europe. Foresters represent a group at elevated risk of exposure to I. ricinus throughout Europe. Here, we employed an experimental design similar to one used previously to determine what behavioral factors heighten exposure to questing Ixodes pacificus nymphs in a hardwood forest in the far-western United States. Five activities were evaluated systematically in a coniferous forest and a mixed broadleaved forest in west-central Poland: (i) walking in low-cut running shoes; (ii) sitting atop logs; (iii) sitting on leaf litter; (iv) sitting against tree trunks; and (v) gathering firewood. In total, 540 I. ricinus ticks were collected (198 larvae, 327 nymphs, 15 adults) in spring and late summer. Many more ticks were collected in spring than in late summer, and in the mixed broadleaved forest versus the coniferous forest. The riskiest behavior for acquiring nymphs in both spring and late summer was gathering firewood, though sitting atop logs was nearly as perilous in late summer. In contrast, the riskiest behaviors for encountering larvae in spring and late summer were sitting against trunks and sitting on leaf litter, respectively. Pairwise comparisons revealed only two significant associations among the variables explored for the nymphs: season and human gender, and season and type of forest. For larval ticks, the most significant associations were gender and sitting behaviors and for type of forest and sitting on leaf litter or against tree trunks. The most commonly infested body region was the lower legs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

European badgers and raccoon dogs and their associated ticks and lice were assayed for the presence of Lyme borreliosis and relapsing fever-group spirochete DNA in western Poland. Analyses of blood, ear-biopsy and liver samples revealed that 25% of 28 raccoon dogs and 12% of 34 badgers were PCR positive for borreliae. Borrelia garinii was the dominant species in raccoon dogs (62.5%), followed by B. afzelii (25%) and B. valaisiana (12.5%). PCR-positive badgers were infected only with B. afzelii . A total of 351 attached ticks was recovered from 23 (82%) of the raccoon dogs and 13 (38%) of the badgers. Using a nested PCR targeting the ITS2 fragments of Ixodes DNA, four Ixodes species were identified: I. ricinus , I. canisuga , I. hexagonus , and one provisionally named I. cf . kaiseri . Ixodes canisuga and I. ricinus prevailed on both host species. The highest infection prevalence was detected in I. ricinus , followed by I. canisuga and I. cf. kaiseri . Borrelia garinii and B. afzelii accounted for 61.6% and 30.1% of the infections detected in all PCR-positive ticks, respectively. Four other Borrelia species ( B. burgdorferi sensu stricto, B. valaisiana , B. lusitaniae and B. miyamotoi ) were detected only in I. ricinus from raccoon dogs. Moreover, Borrelia DNA, mostly B. garinii , was detected in 57 (81.4%) of 70 Trichodectes melis lice derived from 12 badgers. The detection of B. afzelii in one-half of PCR-positive biopsies reconfirms previous associations of this species with mammalian hosts, whereas the high prevalence of B. garinii in feeding lice and I. ricinus ticks (including larvae) demonstrates that both carnivores serve as hosts for B. garinii . The lack of B. garinii DNA in the tissues of badgers versus its prevalence in raccoon-dog biopsies, however, incriminates only the latter carnivore as a potential reservoir host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article deals with differences the programming of production of thin-walled parts using CAM applications for industrial production. Were compared by the amount of time and the number of clicks buttons during which the G codes generated and longitudinal roughness of surfaces. The first side parts has been produced by the program generated by CAD applications WorkNC G3 21.06 and the second side part using Autodesk Inventor Professional HSM PRO 2016. Using generated G codes for Fanuc control system in the various CAM application was made component on CNC vertical machining center Pinnacle VMC 650 S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ixodes ricinus is the most prevalent and widely distributed tick species in European countries and plays a principal role in transmission of a wide range of microbial pathogens. It is also a main vector and reservoir of Rickettsia spp. of the spotted fever group with the infection level ranging in Poland from 1.3% to 11.4%. Nevertheless, little research has been conducted so far to identify reservoir hosts for these pathogens. A survey was undertaken to investigate the presence of Rickettsia spp. in wild small rodents and detached I. ricinus . Rodents, Apodemus flavicollis mice and Myodes glareolus voles were captured in typically sylvatic habitats of west-central Poland. Blood samples and collected ticks were analyzed by conventional, semi-nested and nested PCRs. Rickettsial species were determined by sequence analysis of obtained fragments of gltA and 16S rRNA genes. A total of 2339 immature I. ricinus (mostly larvae) were collected from 158 animals. Proportion of hosts carrying ticks was 84%, being higher for A. flavicollis than for M. glareolus . Rickettsia helvetica , the only species identified, was detected in 8% of 12 nymphs and in at least 10.7% (MIR) of 804 larvae investigated. Prevalence of infected ticks on both rodent species was comparable (10.8 vs . 9%). None of blood samples tested was positive for Rickettsia spp. The results showed that in sylvatic habitats the level of infestation with larval I. ricinus was higher in A. flavicollis mice in comparison with M. glareolus voles. They show that R. helvetica frequently occurred in ticks feeding on rodents. Positive immature ticks were collected from non-rickettsiemic hosts what might suggest a vertical route of their infection (transovarial and/or transstadial) or a very short-lasting rickettsiemia in rodents. A natural vertebrate reservoir host for R. helvetica remains to be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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To study the effects of gas storage, long-term autoclave experiments with rock cores originating from a natural gas reservoir and brines taken from a gas well were conducted at 40 bar and 80 o C in a CO 2 atmosphere. While the main mineral composition of the sandstones was not affected due to CO 2 exposure over a period of 31 months, the dissolution of rock-forming minerals such as feldspar, quartz or pore-filling anhydrite and calcite was noted. Changes in the brine composition were also detected. A release of iron and total organic carbon (TOC) from the rock samples to the saline fluid was observed. Temporary changes in the acetic acid concentration might have contributed to the dissolution processes. Precipitation and dissolution of minerals in sandstones were mostly related to diagenetic fluid-rock reactions and CO 2 exposure, but in general the impact of CO 2 on rock composition was only minor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidation zones of ore deposits offer valuable insights into the long-term fate of many metals and metalloids. In this work, we have studied a paleo-acid rock drainage (ARD) system – the oxidation zone of Mississippi-valley type Zn–Pb deposits near Olkusz in southern Poland. The ARD systems exhausted their acid-generating capacity and have come almost to the conclusion of the mineral and geochemical transformations. Primary pyrite, marcasite, galena and sphalerite have been decomposed but the acidity was neutralized by the abundant carbonate host rocks. Zinc is stored in smithsonite, hemimorphite, and Zn-rich sheet aluminosilicates. Some of these minerals formed simultaneously with the oxidation zone but some precipitated in the soils in situ, thus documenting the mobility of Zn, Al, and Si in the soils. Iron oxides are represented mostly by goethite, either well-crystalline or nanocrystalline, as determined by a combination of powder X-ray diffraction, micro-X-ray diffraction, and Mössbauer spectroscopy. Iron oxides bind a substantial amount of arsenic, to a lesser extent also zinc, lead, and cadmium, as shown by electron microprobe analyses and sequential extractions. The X-ray absorption spectroscopy data of the local environment of arsenic in goethite suggest the existence of bidentate mononuclear complex, in addition to the more common bidentate binuclear complex. These results suggest that arsenic is incorporated in the crystal structure of goethite, in addition to adsorbed to the surface of the particles or occluded in the voids and pores. Zinc is bound in goethite as a mixture of tetrahedrally and octahedrally coordinated cations. This study shows that the mature system binds the metals from the primary sulfides relatively strongly. Yet, some release of the metals was observed in this study, either in the laboratory (by sequential extractions) and in nature (e.g., neoformed Zn phyllosilicates). The physical conditions in the oxidation zone and on the surface are largely similar but the metals, to a certain extent, are still mobile in the soils. We may speculate that their mobility near the surface, in the mining waste, may be enhanced by a higher water/rock ratio than in the oxidation zone. This result implies that although the studied material is relatively benign, it still has a potential to cause local environmental problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Case reports from Johan Czermak, Marc Ruffer, and others a century or more ago demonstrated ancient Egyptians had atherosclerosis three millennia ago. The Horus study team extended their findings, demonstrating that atherosclerosis was prevalent among 76 ancient Egyptian mummies and among 61 mummies from each of the ancient cultures of Peru, the American Southwest, and the Aleutian Islands. These findings challenge the assumption that atherosclerosis is a modern disease caused by present day risk factors. An extensive autopsy of an ancient Egyptian teenage male weaver named Nakht found that he was infected with four parasites: Schistosoma haematobium, Taenia species, Trichinella spiralis, and Plas-modium falciparum. Modern day patients with chronic inflammatory disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and human immunodeficiency virus experience premature atherosclerosis. Could the burden of chronic inflammatory disease have been a risk factor for atherosclerosis in these ancient cultures? The prevalence of atherosclerosis in four diverse ancient cultures is consistent with atherosclerosis being fundamental to aging. The impact of risk factors in modern times, and potentially in ancient times, suggests a strong gene-environmental interplay: human genes provide a vulnerability to atherosclerosis, the environment determines when and if atherosclerosis becomes manifest clinically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Light harvesting complexes developed by living organisms render themselves as an excellent system for understanding basic physical and chemical processes behind the conversion of sunlight energy. Although light harvesting complexes are pretty robust, biochemical reconstitution and genetic modifications have proven the flexibility to tailor their absorption spectra and energy transfer. Importantly, the refolding of the protein and the exchanging of the pigment in micellar media results in very similar pigment arrangement within the native complexes. Here, we show reconstitution approaches with different pigments that have been carried out in PCP, LHCII, and LHI complexes. Monitoring on the spectral changes and energy transfer has also been described. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Staphylococcus aureus is a versatile pathogen that can be a commensal but also cause a wide range of different infections. This broad disease spectrum is a reflection of the complex regulation of a large collection of virulence factors that together with metabolic fitness allow adaptation to different niches. The alternative sigma factor SigB is one of the global regulators mediating this adaptation. However, even if SigB contributes to expression of many virulence factors its importance for successful infection greatly varies with the strain and the infection setting analyzed. We have recently established a proteomics workflow that combines high efficiency cell sorting with sensitive mass spectrometry and allows monitoring of global proteome adaptations with roughly one million bacterial cells. Thus, we can now approach the adaptation of pathogens to the intracellular milieu. In the current study this proteomics workflow was used in conjunction with qRT-PCR and confocal fluorescence microscopy to comparatively analyze the adaptation of the S. aureus wild type strain HG001 and its isogenic sigB mutant to the intracellular milieu of human S9 bronchial epithelial cells. The study revealed fast and transient activation of SigB following internalization by human host cells and the requirement of SigB for intracellular growth. Loss of SigB triggered proteome changes reflecting the different residual growth rates of wild type and sigB mutant, respectively, the resistance to methicillin, adaptation to oxidative stress and protein quality control mechanisms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Lifespan is a life-history trait being of utmost importance, as it is frequently closely related to individual fitness. However, interspecific comparisons are relatively rare, being hampered by the high effort to collect longevity data across taxa. We here compiled lifespan data for 85 species of bird-eating spiders (Theraphosidae) held in captivity, based on 2183 individual records from the animal record books of both zoological gardens of Berlin, Germany. Using a data-mining approach we sought for broad patterns of correlations between lifespan and an array of other variables as derived from the literature. We found that the subfamily Eumenophoriinae lived on average longest, followed by the Theraphosinae, Ornithoctinae, Grammostolinae, Selenocosmiinae, Ischnocolinae and finally the Avicularinae. Species inhabiting tropical, more humid and/or low-altitude environments lived longer, suggesting that more predictable environments facilitate the evolution of longer lifespans. Furthermore, large range size, low abundance, sub-terrestrial life-style, and aggressive behavior were all associated with longer lifespans. Evidence for resource allocation trade-offs was revealed as larger spiderling and prosoma size was negatively related to longevity. Our rather rough approach revealed several patterns worth of future investigations, and illustrate the value of zoo records for interspecific comparisons. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In contrast to the monitoring and prevention of occupational radiation risk caused by enhanced natural radioactivity, relatively little attention has been paid to the environmental impact associated with residues containing enhanced activity concentration of naturally occurring radionuclides. Such materials are often deposited directly into the environment, a practice which is strictly forbidden in the management of other types of radioactive waste. In view of the new trends in radiation protection, the need to consider the occurrence of anthropogenically enhanced natural radioactivity as a particular unique case of environmental hazard is quite apparent. Residues containing high activity concentrations of some natural radionuclides differ from radioactive materials arising from the nuclear industry. In addition, the radiation risk is usually combined with the risk caused by other pollutants. As such and to date, there are no precise regulations regarding this matter and moreover, the non-nuclear industry is often not aware of potential environmental problems caused by natural radioactivity. This article discusses aspects of environmental radiation risks caused by anthropogenically enhanced natural radioactivity stored at unauthorised sites. Difficulties and inconclusiveness in the application of recommendations and models for radiation risk assessment are explored. General terms such as “environmental effects” and the basic parameters necessary to carry out consistent and comparable Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA) have been developed and defined. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are fatty acid-activated transcription factors belonging to the nuclear hormone receptor family. While PPARs are best known as regulators of energy homeostasis, evidence also has accumulated recently for their involvement in basic cellular functions. We review novel insights into PPAR functions in skin wound healing and liver, with emphasis on PPARβ/δ and PPARα, respectively. Activation of PPARβ/δ expression in response to injury promotes keratinocyte survival, directional sensing, and migration over the wound bed. In addition, interleukin (IL)-1 produced by the keratinocytes activates PPARβ/δ expression in the underlying fibroblasts, which hinders the mitotic activity of keratinocytes via inhibition of IL-1 signaling. Initially, roles were identified for PPARα in fatty acid catabolism. However, PPARα is also involved in downregulating many genes in female mammals. We have elucidated the mechanism of this repression, which requires sumoylation of PPARα. Physiologically, this control confers protection against estrogen-induced intrahepatic cholestasis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: The role of airway wall remodelling in bronchial asthma is well established. Myofibroblasts, the cells displaying features intermediate between fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells, are involved in this process but the mechanism of myofibroblasts activation in the onset of the disease remains obscure. Myofibroblasts can differentiate from various cell types, including resident fibroblasts, and the fibroblasts to myofibroblasts transition (FMT) can be reproduced in vitro. We aimed to investigate the process of FMT in human bronchial fibroblasts (HBF) derived from non-asthmatic (n = 7) and asthmatic (n = 7) subjects. We also tested whether cell–cell contacts affect FMT by using N-cadherin blocking antibody. HBF plated in low or high cell density were treated with TGF-β1 up to one week to induce FMT. The percentage of myofibroblsts was counted and expression of α−smooth muscle actin was evaluated by cytoimmunofluorescence, flow cytometry and immunobloting. We demonstrated that the intensity of FMT induced by TGF-β1 in vitro was strongly enhanced in asthmatic as compared to non-asthmatic HBF populations. This process was facilitated by low cell plating density in both groups of cultures. Furthermore, we proved that neither HBF-conditioned medium nor growth arrest in G0/G1 phase of cell cycle could stop the TGF-β1-induced FMT in asthmatic cell populations. However, even in sparse asthmatic HBF, the blocking of N-cadherin resulted in the inhibition of FMT. Our findings show for the first time that the initial absence or an induced loss of cell–cell adhesions in asthmatic HBF populations is important for the completion of FMT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The ultrastructure of spermatozoa is a valuable tool for phylogenetic and systematic studies. Ricinulei are enigmatic and poorly studied arachnids. So far, spermatozoa are only known from New World ricinuleids. The goals were to study, by means of light and transmission electron microcopy, the spermatozoa of an Old World species with regard to their phylogenetic implications, e.g., does the sperm structure contribute to the debated sister-group relationship of Acari and Ricinulei. The spermatozoa are coiled-flagellate and characterized by a cap-like acrosomal vacuole covered by electron-dense material, an elongated nucleus covered by a manchette of microtubules during spermiogenesis, an axoneme with a 9+2 microtubular pattern, a nuclear tube and axonemal basis which both originate underneath the acrosomal vacuole and cleistospermia as transfer form equipped with three intracellular plates. The data of the present study did not support a close relationship of Ricinulei and Acari which have aflagellate sperm with various synapomorphies as e.g., lacking nuclear envelopes/membranes in Actinotrichida (very similar to Solifugae) or vacuolated spermatozoa in Anactinotrichida. Affinities of Ricinulei are discussed in the light of the ultrastructure of arachnid spermatozoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We present a strategy to develop a mesh manipulation module of a flexible and robust adaptive finite element application that will perform accurate modelling of flows, handling complicated computational domains. We describe guidelines for developing such a module focusing on three aspects: parallelism on domain and computational node level, improving speed through better cache hit-ratio and assuring flexibility thanks to modern object oriented programming techniques. In subsequent development the module is intended to bu used in multi-physics and multi-scale simulations of fluid-structure interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Monogyny in spiders culminates in extreme traits, like dramatic male self-sacrifice and emasculation of the male by the female during copulation. Here we show that monogynous males can be highly adapted for this fatal sexual behaviour. Dwarf males of the one-palped theridiid spider Tidarren argo, which are cannibalised immediately after the insertion of their single copulatory organ, stop spermiogenesis when reaching adulthood. Their testes atrophy, which might economise the energy expenditures of these males. We also found that the amount of seminal fluid produced is stored in an enlarged seminal vesicle until the single sperm induction takes place. The volume of the seminal vesicle is similar to the sperm droplet taken up into the copulatory organ (palpal organ). Sperm uptake takes much longer than in related species most likely due to the large amount of seminal fluid. As shown by histological observations males are able to fill one of the paired female sperm storage organs during copulation thereby presumably impeding subsequent charging by rival males. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: It is generally assumed that neurodegeneration is connected with glutamatergic hyperactivity, and that neuropeptide Y (NPY) inhibits glutamate release. Some earlier studies indicated that NPY may have neuroprotective effect; however, the results obtained so far are still divergent, and the role of different Y receptors remains unclear. Therefore in the presented study we investigated the neuroprotective potential of NPY and its Y2, Y5 or Y1 receptor (R) ligands against the kainate (KA)-induced excitotoxicity in neuronal cultures in vitro, as well as in vivo after intrahippocampal KA injection and also in an ischemic middle cerebral artery occlusion model after intraventricular injection of Y2R agonist. NPY compounds were applicated 30min, 1, 3 or 6h after the start of the exposure to KA, or 30min after the onset of ischemia. Our results indicate the neuroprotective activity of NPY and its Y2R and Y5R ligands against the kainate-induced excitotoxicity in primary cortical and hippocampal cultures. Importantly, NPY was effective when given as late as 6h, while Y2R or Y5R agonists 3h, after starting the exposure to KA. In in vitro studies those protective effects were inhibited by the respective receptor antagonists. Neuroprotection was also observed in vivo after intrahippocampal injection of Y2R and Y5R agonists 30min or 1h after KA. No protection was found either in vitro or in vivo after the Y1R agonist. The Y2R agonist also showed neuroprotective activity in the ischemic model. The obtained results indicate that neuropeptide Y produces neuroprotective effect via Y2 and Y5 receptors, and that the compounds may be effective after delayed application. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Studies on the sperm morphology in scorpions are rare, but the existing investigations already revealed a remarkable interfamiliar diversity. The present study reports for the first time on the spermatozoa and sperm packages of a representative of the family Troglotayosicidae, the troglophylous species Belisarius xambeui. The spermatozoa are characterized by (1) a thread-like nucleus, which is slightly bent anteriorly; (2) an asymmetrical cap-like acrosomal vacuole, which encloses the anterior tip of the nucleus; an acrosomal filament is absent; (3) an axoneme with a 9+0 microtubular pattern; (4) a midpiece consisting of elongated mitochondria coiling around the axoneme; the number can vary between 3 and 6 (mostly 4). At the end of spermiogenesis, the spermatozoa aggregate in order to form oval-shaped sperm packages in which all sperm cells show the same orientation. A single package consists of approximately 150 sperms. A secretion sheath is always absent. The present results might provide new characters for further systematic studies and their phylogenetic implications are briefly discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Questing Ixodes ricinus ticks from different regions of Poland were investigated for the presence of spotted fever group (SFG) rickettsiae. A total of 1214 DNA samples of 2813 ticks, including 820 individual adult ticks and 394 pools containing 1993 nymphs, were tested by PCR for a fragment of the rickettsial gltA gene using the primers RpCs.877 and RpCs.1258. Overall, at least 5.5% ticks were found to be positive with the highest prevalence observed in females (10.6%). A sample of 14 positive PCR products was sequenced. Analyzed fragments of 270–370bp showed 100% similarities to corresponding sequences of Rickettsia helvetica deposited in the GenBank. Results of our investigation confirm the occurrence and wide distribution of R. helvetica in I. ricinus tick populations in Poland. This rickettsia should be added to the list of potentially dangerous pathogens transmitted by ticks in our country. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Between May and September of 2002, forest passerine birds and immature Ixodes ricinus ticks infesting them were surveyed for infection with Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. in a sylvatic habitat in west-central Poland. A total of 738 feeding I. ricinus ticks were recovered from 114 birds belonging to 9 species. The majority of ticks (65.7%) were collected from two thrush species, the blackbird (Turdus merula) and the song thrush (T. philomelos). Since only the two Turdus species proved to be parasitized by Borrelia-infected ticks, this study focused mainly on these birds. Immature ticks were removed from 53 of the 54 captured thrushes. A total of 304 partially or fully engorged ticks (110 larvae and 194 nymphs), and 53 bird-derived blood samples were tested for borreliae. B. burgdorferi s.l. DNA was detected by PCR in 11% of the larval ticks and in 7.2% of the nymphs. The PCR-positive ticks were found on 8 of 53 tick-infested thrushes. B. garinii and B. valaisiana accounted for 88.5% and 11.5% of the infections detected in Borrelia-positive ticks, respectively. Only one out of 53 of Turdus blood samples were PCR-positive for borreliae. The blood-positive thrush was infected with B. burgdorferi s.s. B. afzelii was the most frequently identified genospecies in PCR-positive questing I. ricinus ticks, followed by B. valaisiana (89% and 11%, respectively). The absence of B. afzelii infection in ticks feeding on passerine birds, despite its strong predominance in local questing nymph populations, indicates that avian hosts are not reservoirs of this genospecies and consequently that the rodent-adapted B. afzelii is negatively selected in ticks feeding on these hosts. These results validate the concept of some avian-associated genospecies within the B. burgdorferi s.l. complex and demonstrate that thrush species may support the circulation of B. garinii and B. valaisiana under natural conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Anthropogenic water bodies namely fish ponds, clay pits, sand pits, dam reservoirs or mining subsidence pools are the characteristic feature of Upper Silesian landscape. In the study, the gastropod communities occurring in 296 anthropogenic water bodies were discussed in relation to their distribution in macroregions of Upper Silesia, role in industrialised and urbanised environment and the significance for regional biodiversity. In period 1998–2002, 31 freshwater gastropod species were found in the study area. It is noteworthy, that the anthropogenic water habitats of Upper Silesia provide a refuge for several rare and vulnerable species, among them e.g. Anisus leucostoma (Millet, 1813), Gyraulus rossmaessleri (V. Auerswald, 1852) and Hippeutis complanatus (Linnaeus, 1758). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Understanding immune responses over time following natural varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection and vaccination is important with regard to the potential use of the newly developed herpes zoster (shingles) vaccine. This vaccine results in considerable reduction in the incidence and severity of zoster and its complications. Its impact on zoster epidemiology is anticipated to be significant, although further data will be necessary to plan its optimal use. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Until now, the knowledge on pholcid spermatozoa is based on two species, Pholcus phalangioides and, incompletely, Holocnemus pluchei. To complete this knowledge and to reveal more potential phylogenetic characters, we have investigated sperm ultrastructure and spermiogenesis of H. pluchei. We found that the sperm cells of this species are clearly different from those of P. phalangioides with respect to: (1) the lack of specialization in the cylindrical acrosomal vacuole; (2) a nuclear canal which is located in the periphery and not in the center of the nucleus; (3) a more prominent postcentriolar elongation of the nucleus; (4) the presence of “inner microtubules” in the implantation fossa in early and mid-spermatids; (5) the absence of a helical band of nuclear material; (6) the proximal centriole which is not prolonged; (7) the types of secretion in the seminal fluid (only two types in H. pluchei). Similarities in the spermatozoa of both species concern: (1) a large implantation fossa which contains large amounts of glycogen in mature spermatozoa; (2) absence of a centriolar adjunct; (3) an axonemal basis located in the posterior part of the implantation fossa; (4) the formation of the so-called cleistospermia in the vas deferens. Our results strongly support systematic relationships within Pholcidae placing these two species in different subgroups. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A major change in oceanic sedimentation from mid-Cretaceous organic carbon-enriched deep-sea deposits to predominantly Upper Cretaceous oceanic red beds (CORBs), represented mainly by deep-sea red shales and marls, occurred during the Late Cretaceous and early Tertiary in the Tethys. A variety of earth processes such as organic carbon draw-down, tectonic, palaeoceanographic, eustatic and palaeoclimatic changes, or a combination of these could cause such a change, the main significance of which is that it demonstrates that the deep ocean basins ceased to be the preferential burial site for organic carbon. A compilation of available data on CORB occurrences, composition, and age indicate that: (1) CORBs are found in a broad geographic belt extending from the Caribbean across the central North Atlantic, southern and eastern Europe to Asia; with limited occurrences in the Indian ocean; (2) both the first and the last occurrences of CORBs are diachronous; (3) CORBs are of pelagic and hemipelagic origin and were deposited in a variety of environments from continental slope to deep oceanic basin, above and below the carbonate compensation depth (CCD); (4) total organic carbon (TOC) is mostly &#60;0.1%; haematite is relatively abundant, up to 10% in red shales; (5) the termination of CORB deposition in the Alps, Carpathians, and Himalayas was mostly a result of major tectonic events associated with intensification of continental plate migration and initial stages of collision of the Indian and Asian plates and the African and European continental plates. We suggest that changes in dissolved oxygen in the deep ocean were mainly the result of changes in the location and formation of deep water and changes in ocean circulation. It is more than probable that a score of different earth processes, including changes in climate, all acting in concert, were involved in such a major change in the deep-sea environment and location of the carbon reservoir. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Two species of the early derivative spider family Heptathelidae (Heptathela kimurai yanbaruensis and Ryuthela nishihirai nishihirai) have been investigated with respect to spermiogenesis, focussing on late events during which peculiar transfer forms are developed. It is shown, for the first time in detail, that these spiders produce coenospermia.The coenospermia of these species are large aggregates containing more than 20 individual encapsulated spermatozoa. The coenospermia possess a likely flexible envelope formed by a thick multilayered secretion, which protects the spermatozoa during transfer to the female genital system and storage in the receptacula. In addition, a short description of the main cell components of the individual spermatozoa is given as a complement to previous studies. With the observation presented here, the suggestion that coenospermia are an ancestral character in the Araneae is further confirmed, and plesiomorphic features of spider sperms are consolidated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Babesia canis , a widely distributed European tick-borne protozoan haemoparasite, causes canine babesiosis, the most important tick-borne disease afflicting dogs worldwide. The meadow tick, Dermacentor reticulatus , is considered to be the primary vector of this parasite in central Europe. Females of the more broadly distributed and medically important castor bean tick, Ixodes ricinus , also commonly feed upon dogs, but their role in the enzootic transmission cycle of B. canis is unclear. Here, we screened 1,598 host-seeking I. ricinus ticks collected from two different ecosystems, forest stands vs. urban recreational forests, for the presence of B. canis DNA. Ticks were sampled during their two seasonal peaks of activity, spring (May/June) and late summer (September). Babesia species were identified by amplification and sequencing of a hypervariable 18S rRNA gene fragment. Babesia canis was the only piroplasm detected in 13% of 200 larvae and 8.2% of 324 nymphs in the forest ecosystems. In urban recreational areas, B. canis DNA was found in 1.5% of 460 nymphs, 3.5% of 289 females and 3.2% of 280 males. Additionally, three samples, including one female, one male, and one nymph, were co-infected with B. venatorum and one nymph with B. divergens or B. capreoli. Our findings implicate that B. canis can be transmitted transovarially and maintained transstadially within populations of I. ricinus , but the vector competence of I. ricinus for transmitting B. canis remains to be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The novel iminosugar (1R,2S,3R,5R,8aR)-3-(hydroxymethyl)-5-methyloctahydroindolizine-1,2-diol (steviamine) was isolated from leaf material of Stevia rebaudiana and leaves and bulbs of Veltheimia capensis. This is the first report of an indolizidine iminosugar alkaloid from the Asteraceae and Hyacinthaceae. Steviamine may occur in some Stevia products and influence taste. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bats comprise one quarter of the world's mammal species. In Europe, three nidicolous Ixodes tick species, I. vespertilionis, I. simplex and I. ariadnae are specifically associated with cave-dwelling bats, but their role as potential vectors of zoonotic agents is unknown. In this study, we used PCR-based methods to provide the first evidence of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) infections in the three bat-associated tick species collected from ten bat species sampled in Poland and Romania. B. burgdorferi s.l. was detected in 24% (64/266) of tick samples, and 40.3% (60/149) of the bats carried infected chiropterophilic ticks. In Poland, the B. burgdorferi s.l. infection prevelance of I. ariadnae ticks parasitizing Myotis species was four times higher compared to the I. vespertilionis ticks derived from Rhinolophus hipposideros bats (44.4% vs.10%, respectively). The observed differences in infection prevalence could be explained by differences in reservoir potential between bat species. Bats from the genus Myotis and Miniopterus schreibersii carried more infected ticks than R. hipposideros regardless of the tick species. Analysis of the flaB gene sequences revealed seven species from the B. burgdorferi s.l. complex (B. afzelii, B. carolinensis, B. garinii, B. lanei, B. spielmanii, B. burgdorferi s.s., and B. valaisiana), of which five are considered as human pathogens. This large diversity of Borrelia species may reflect differences in susceptibility of chiropteran hosts and/or the tick vectors. Generally, mammal-associated B. burgdorferi s.l. species were more common than bird-associated species. Our study provides evidence for new enzootic transmission cycles of B. burgdorferi s.l. spirochetes involving nidicolous Ixodes tick species and cave-dwelling bats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]