bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serotonin, behavior, and natural selection in New World monkeys
Authors: Reales Guillermo , Paixão‐Côrtes Vanessa R. , Cybis Gabriela B. , Gonçalves Gislene L. , Pissinatti Alcides , Salzano Francisco M. , Bortolini Maria Cátira
Published: June 2018

Traits that undergo massive natural selection pressure, with multiple events of positive selection, are hard to find. Social behaviour, in social animals, is crucial for survival, and genetic networks involved in behaviour, such as those of serotonin (5‐HT) and other neurotransmitters, must be the target of natural selection. Here, we used molecular analyses to search for signals of positive selection in the 5‐HT system and found such signals in the M3‐M4 intracellular domain of the 5‐HT3A serotonin receptor subunit (HTR3A) in primates. We detected four amino acid sites with signs of putatively positive selection (398, 403, 432 and 416); the first three showed indications of being selected in New World monkeys (NWM, Platyrrhini), specifically in the Callitrichinae branch. Additionally, we searched for associations of these amino acid variants with social behavioural traits (i.e. sex‐biased dispersal, dominance and social monogamy) using classical and Bayesian methods, and found statistically significant associations for unbiased sex dispersal (398L and 416S), unbiased sex dominance (416S) and social monogamy (416S), as well as significant positive correlation between female dispersal and 403G. Furthermore, we found putatively functional protein motifs determined by three selected sites, of which we highlight a ligand motif to GSK3 in the 416S variant, appearing only in Platyrrhini. 5‐HT, 5‐HT3A receptor and GSK3 are part of a network that participates in neurodevelopment and regulates behaviour, among other functions. We suggest that these genetic variations, together with those found in other neurotransmitter systems, must contribute to adaptive behaviours and consequently to fitness in NWMs.
Effect of migration and environmental heterogeneity on the maintenance of quantitative genetic variation: a simulation study
Authors: McDonald Tegan Krista , Yeaman Sam
Published: June 2018

The paradox of high genetic variation observed in traits under stabilizing selection is a long‐standing problem in evolutionary theory, as mutation rates appear too low to explain observed levels of standing genetic variation under classic models of mutation–selection balance. Spatially or temporally heterogeneous environments can maintain more standing genetic variation within populations than homogeneous environments, but it is unclear whether such conditions can resolve the above discrepancy between theory and observation. Here, we use individual‐based simulations to explore the effect of various types of environmental heterogeneity on the maintenance of genetic variation (VA) for a quantitative trait under stabilizing selection. We find that VA is maximized at intermediate migration rates in spatially heterogeneous environments and that the observed patterns are robust to changes in population size. Spatial environmental heterogeneity increased variation by as much as 10‐fold over mutation–selection balance alone, whereas pure temporal environmental heterogeneity increased variance by only 45% at max. Our results show that some combinations of spatial heterogeneity and migration can maintain considerably more variation than mutation–selection balance, potentially reconciling the discrepancy between theoretical predictions and empirical observations. However, given the narrow regions of parameter space required for this effect, this is unlikely to provide a general explanation for the maintenance of variation. Nonetheless, our results suggest that habitat fragmentation may affect the maintenance of VA and thereby reduce the adaptive capacity of populations.
Reinvestigation of Phryganella paradoxa (Arcellinida, Amoebozoa) Penard 1902
Authors: Dumack Kenneth , Kahlich Christopher , Lahr Daniel J. G. , Bonkowski Michael
Published: June 2018

A major drawback in testate amoeba research is a general lack of scientific studies combining molecular approaches and classical laboratory experiments. We isolated five yet uncultured testate amoebae of the genus Phryganella Penard, 1902 from three different rivers and one pond in Germany. Based on established cultures we show their morphology, which we studied by light and electron microscopy, and present their unique feeding mode on abundant and common pennate diatoms like Nitzschia spp. and Synedra spp., whose frustules are bent and frequently, but not always, broken during the feeding process. We further obtained the first SSU rDNA sequences of strains of the family Phryganellidae, all of which contain introns. We used the sequences to confirm the taxonomic placement of the Phryganellidae in the Arcellinida (Amoebozoa), branching as a sister group to the Cryptodifflugiidae.
The effects of a small hydropower scheme on the migratory behaviour of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts
Authors: Moore Andy , Privitera Lucia , Ives Mark J. , Uzyczak Jane , Beaumont William R. C.
Published: June 2018

The potential effects of a hydropower scheme on the migratory behaviour of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts was studied on the River Frome, southern England. The potential delay to migration at the intake of the hydropower scheme was assessed, together with the effects of passage through the turbine on the temporal and spatial migration of the fish in the river and estuary. The migratory behaviour of the emigrating S. salar smolts was monitored using miniature acoustic transmitters and an array of acoustic receivers positioned at the hydropower scheme and in the river and estuary. The majority of the smolts bypassed the hydropower scheme with only 8.1% of the fish moving downstream through the turbine. Movement was nocturnal and occurred during elevated river flows. There was no apparent delay at the turbine intake or at the adjacent weir. The subsequent migration of all smolts through the estuary of the River Frome occurred during both day and night and there was a distinct ebb‐tide migration through the estuary and into the coastal zone. There was no difference in the rate of migration between smolts that moved through the turbine or over the weir. The detection of smolts during both the freshwater migration and the transition from the freshwater to the marine environments was high (91.8 and 73.3%, respectively). A laboratory investigation on the de‐scaling of smolts indicated that removal of 1, 5 and 10% of scales had no significant effect on saltwater survival or the measured physiological parameters (gill Na+–K+‐ATPase activity, plasma osmolality and chloride concentrations). Smolt passage through the turbine was assessed and resulted in either no damage to the integument or scale loss or between 20 and 80% of total body area of recaptured smolts. It is estimated that 1.53% of the smolt population would suffer significant damage after passage through the turbine. The implications of the hydropower scheme on the population of salmon in the River Frome are discussed.
Mineral equilibrium modelling and calculated chemical potential relations of reaction textures in the ultrahigh‐temperature In Ouzzal terrane (In Hihaou area, Western Hoggar, Algeria)
Authors: Doukkari Sid Ali , Diener Johann F.A. , Ouzegane Khadidja , Kienast Jean‐Robert
Published: June 2018

Mg–Al‐rich orthopyroxene–sillimanite‐bearing granulites from In Hihaou, In Ouzzal terrane, NW Hoggar were previously determined to have experienced ultrahigh‐temperature metamorphism at 1,050°C and 10 kbar. Multilayer corona and symplectite reaction textures that pervasively replace peak metamorphic porphyroblasts were interpreted to have formed during near‐isothermal decompression. Pseudosection calculations using new and realistic activity–composition models give estimates of 900 ± 20°C and 8 ± 0.5 kbar for the reaction texture assemblage. Calculated chemical potential relations show that reaction textures formed due to very minor decompression from peak conditions, when the removal of intracrystalline melt led to the development of local equilibrium domains around garnet and sillimanite porphyroblasts. The growth of initial monomineralic coronas further isolated the porphyroblasts from the matrix, leading to the later development of the symplectites. These results indicate that the derivation and interpretation of UHT conditions using the occurrence of diagnostic assemblages on classic petrogenetic grids can overestimate temperature and/or pressure conditions. Similarly, the interpretation of reaction textures to derive retrograde conditions and P–T paths without considering their spatial development is unlikely to be reliable, as textures do not typically form in this way or routinely record this information.
Intersectional Oppression: Multiple Stigmatized Identities and Perceptions of Invisibility, Discrimination, and Stereotyping
Authors: Remedios Jessica D. , Snyder Samantha H.
Published: June 2018

Participants (N = 602; having 0, 1, 2 or 3 stigmatized identities based on gender, race, sexual orientation, and social class) completed a survey on their feelings of invisibility and expectations of receiving unfair treatment (i.e., experiencing discrimination) and being stereotyped due to their group memberships. The results were consistent with the model of intersectional invisibility, with multiply‐stigmatized individuals reporting feeling more invisible than individuals who had one or zero stigmatized identities. In addition, multiply‐stigmatized individuals reported more unfair treatment and greater stereotype concerns than individuals with one stigmatized identity, with both reporting more unfair treatment/stereotype concerns than individuals without stigmatized identities. Thus, the present data suggest that multiply‐stigmatized individuals are keenly aware of their invisibility and that invisibility represents a source of perceived discrimination and stereotyping for multiply‐stigmatized individuals.
“I Have a Dream” of a Colorblind Nation? Examining the Relationship between Racial Colorblindness, System Justification, and Support for Policies that Redress Inequalities
Authors: Yogeeswaran Kumar , Verkuyten Maykel , Osborne Danny , Sibley Chris G.
Published: June 2018

One of Dr. Martin Luther King's most memorable quotes came from his famous “I have a dream” speech, which arguably called for a racially colorblind society. Today, colorblindness represents a complex ideology used in education, businesses, and governments, with both positive and negative implications for intergroup relations. On the one hand, colorblindness is used to promote fairness and equality between groups by asking people to ignore group membership and treat everyone the same. On the other hand, colorblindness serves a system‐justifying function by holding minority groups responsible for their current disadvantages. The present research utilizes a nationally representative sample of majority group New Zealanders (N = 8,728) to examine the implications of colorblindness on support for policies that redress inequalities between the indigenous (Māori) and majority (European) population through resource redistribution and symbolic incorporation into the nation's identity. Additionally, we examine the indirect effect of system‐justifying beliefs on the relationship between colorblindness and policy support. Data revealed that colorblindness predicted opposition toward both resource‐based approaches to redress inequalities and symbolic policies that incorporate indigenous culture into the national identity. Importantly, there was a significant indirect effect of system‐justifying beliefs on both outcomes. Taken together, these findings suggest that colorblindness can be used to undermine support for policies that redress inequalities between majority and minority groups in a post‐colonial society.
The Psychology of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Creative Maladjustment” at Societal Injustice and Oppression
Authors: Allen Aerielle M. , Leach Colin Wayne
Published: June 2018

Many theoretical frameworks in psychology are premised on the notion that people are hedonistic in nature—drawn to pleasure and avoidant of discomfort. In this essay, we argue that psychology's hedonism contrasts with Martin Luther King Jr's conception of creative maladjustment, wherein a feeling of “cosmic discontent” is focused on the ugly truth of societal injustice. After reviewing hedonistic assumptions in the psychology of coping, well‐being, and views of societal inequality, we discuss MLK's conception of creative maladjustment and tie it to critical consciousness and the present‐day idea of being “woke.” We then use MLK's ideas as a lens on contemporary psychological research of views of societal injustice “from above” and “from below.” We suggest that MLK's analysis continues to challenge psychology to develop an approach to cognition, emotion, and motivation at societal injustice that identifies the ethical value of a sustained discontent that illuminates truth and animates opposition.
Improvement in dissolution rate and photodynamic efficacy of chlorin e6 by sucrose esters as drug carrier in nanosuspension formulation: optimisation and in vitro characterisation
Authors: Paul Shubhajit , Heng Paul Wan Sia , Chan Lai Wah
Published: June 2018

Objectives

Chlorin e6 is a poorly water-soluble photoactive drug. Its monomers form aggregates at the tumour physiological pH, which drastically reduces its photodynamic efficacy. This study aimed to improve the dissolution rate and photodynamic efficacy of chlorin e6 by nanosuspension formulation using biodegradable sucrose esters as drug carrier.

Methods

A modified emulsion-solvent diffusion method was used to prepare the nanosuspension, where amount of Ce6, ratio of sucrose monopalmitate to sucrose monolaurate as carrier and ratio of dichloromethane to acetone as solvent, were varied using central composite design. Particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency and in vitro drug release characteristics of the nanosuspensions were evaluated. The formulation was optimised by response surface methodology and its photodynamic efficacy evaluated.

Key findings

The optimised nanosuspension had mean particle size of ~200 nm, 88% drug encapsulation efficiency and faster drug release compared to pure Ce6. Spectroscopic studies showed that Ce6 exists in monomeric form in the carrier, which facilitated a remarkable increase in cellular uptake, in vitro singlet oxygen generation and cytotoxicity to oral squamous carcinoma cells.

Conclusions

The dissolution rate and photodynamic efficacy of Ce6 were markedly improved by formulating the drug as a nanosuspension with sucrose esters as drug carrier.
Canopy height and competition explain species segregation in wet heathlands
Authors: Fagúndez Jaime
Published: June 2018

Questions

What is the general pattern of species co‐occurrence in managed heathlands? Is the pattern consistent among functional groups? Is it ruled by species competition, or by contrasting environments at a fine scale? Does grazing pressure and herbivore species condition species interactions?

Location

Erica mackayana wet heaths, Galicia, NW Iberian Peninsula.

Methods

A null model approach was used to compare species co‐occurrence with generated random matrices from 54 10‐m transects. The C‐score was obtained from the multispecies presence/absence matrix for each transect of shrubs and graminoids recorded at 25‐cm intervals. Differences in canopy height were recorded to assess the importance of the environment compared to inter‐specific competition. Results were linked to different levels of grazing pressure and herbivore species.

Results

Species segregation was the main pattern for all species, but mainly among graminoid species compared to shrubs. Graminoids showed an even proportion of segregated pairs explained by different canopy heights and competition. These differences were mainly species environmental requirements of canopy height. Levels of grazing pressure enhanced species segregation in graminoids but had no effect on shrubs or the total species set.

Conclusions

Competition and canopy height affect the E. mackayana heathland composition, but differently for functional groups. A heterogeneous vegetation profile with shrub mats and open gaps created by light grazing promotes species co‐existence within mats and competition in gaps. I suggest this is an optimum structure for the habitat to be targeted through management.
Complainant emotional expressions and perceived credibility: Exploring the role of perceivers’ facial mimicry and empathy
Authors: Ask Karl
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This research investigated the roles of perceivers’ facial mimicry and empathy in the emotional victim effect (EVE) – the finding that complainants tend to appear more credible when exhibiting (vs. not exhibiting) negative emotional displays during their statements. Because facial mimicry plays a key role in empathic responding, it was hypothesized that inhibiting and facilitating perceivers’ mimicry would attenuate and amplify the EVE, respectively.

Methods

Participants (N = 362) in an experiment were instructed to mimic or not to mimic facial expressions (controls received no mimicry instructions) while watching a statement by an emotional or non‐emotional rape complainant. Participants rated the complainant's believability and the extent to which they experienced cognitive and affective empathy.

Results

The perceived believability of the complainant was not affected by complainant emotions, thus failing to replicate the EVE. However, the inhibition of mimicry unexpectedly reduced the perceived believability of the complainant, apparently by decreasing participants’ cognitive empathy.

Conclusions

The current findings suggest that mimicry inhibition may increase scepticism in the context of credibility assessment. This has important implications for decision‐making in legal settings and for research on the process of credibility attribution. Moreover, the failure to replicate the EVE adds to the cumulative evidence on the underlying effect size for the phenomenon.
Relationship between water quality variations and land use in the Batutegi Dam Watershed, Sekampung, Indonesia
Authors: Somura Hiroaki , Yuwono Slamet B. , Ismono Hanung , Arifin Bustanul , Fitriani Fitriani , Kada Ryohei
Published: June 2018

The Sekampung Hulu and Sangharus rivers were selected as target sites to study improved use and conservation of dam reservoir water because the region is an important source of fresh water, irrigation water for downstream agriculture and production of hydropower. The two rivers exhibited differences in average water quality. Most water quality parameters exhibited clear differences between the two rivers at each sampling event, with the relative differences not changing during the sampling period. Analysis of water quality based on land use percentage indicated that upland fields had a major impact on most water quality parameters. In addition, forest and plantation conditions had a major impact on the suspended solids concentrations. The results of the present study suggest that current management of these land use categories may not be adequate to prevent or even decrease erosion.
Behavioural study of the golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) in a Tropical Lake, Chenderoh Reservoir, Malaysia
Authors: Ismail Siti Norasikin , Abdul Wahab Nurul Izzati , Mansor Mashhor
Published: June 2018

A survey on the egg deposition behaviour of the golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) was conducted at Chenderoh Reservoir in Malaysia. The distribution of P. canaliculata and medium preferences for egg deposition in the lake were recorded. The egg deposition mediums included aquatic plants, rocks and boats and other artificial structures. The number of egg clusters on the aquatic plants was counted to examine the preferred plant species for egg deposition, being collected thereafter for hatching test. This study findings indicated P. canaliculata laid eggs on the stems and leaves of aquatic plants, with a 43% occurrence compared to the other hard medium surfaces such as boats, rocks, fish cages and emerged bamboo piles, with a 14% occurrence recorded for each medium. A total of 65% of the eggs were deposited on the stems, and 35% on the leaves, of the aquatic plants. Phragmites australis (41%) of the Poaceae family was the most preferred plant for egg deposition, whereas the least preferred plant for egg deposition was Neptunia oleracea (3%) of the Fabaceae family. There was no significant difference (p < 0.5) in the percentage of hatched egg between the submersed and nonsubmersed hatching tests. The incubation period of the egg to hatch period was approximately 14 days upon the hardening of the calcium shell. In addition, about 60% of the eggs hatched, even though the eggs were immersed in the water. As the invasive P. canaliculata is considered to be in the top 100 of the “World Most Invasive Alien Species,” these types of behavioural studies are needed to better understand and control the snail, reducing the economic loss, especially in the agriculture sector, as well as facilitating a healthier lake environment.
The choice of universal primers and the characteristics of the species mixture determine when DNA metabarcoding can be quantitative
Authors: Piñol Josep , Senar Miquel A. , Symondson William O. C.
Published: June 2018

DNA metabarcoding is a technique used to survey biodiversity in many ecological settings, but there are doubts about whether it can provide quantitative results, that is, the proportions of each species in the mixture as opposed to a species list. While there are several experimental studies that report quantitative metabarcoding results, there are a similar number that fail to do so. Here, we provide the rationale to understand under what circumstances the technique can be quantitative. In essence, we simulate a mixture of DNA of S species with a defined initial abundance distribution. In the simulated PCR, each species increases its concentration following a certain amplification efficiency. The final DNA concentration will reflect the initial one when the efficiency is similar for all species; otherwise, the initial and final DNA concentrations would be poorly related. Although there are many known factors that modulate amplification efficiency, we focused on the number of primer–template mismatches, arguably the most important one. We used 15 common primers pairs targeting the mitochondrial COI region and the mitogenomes of ca. 1,200 insect species. The results showed that some primers pairs produced quantitative results under most circumstances, whereas some other primers failed to do so. In conclusion, depending on the primer pair used in the PCR amplification and on the characteristics of the mixture analysed (i.e., high species richness, low evenness), DNA metabarcoding can provide a quantitative estimate of the relative abundances of different species.
Evaluating genomic signatures of “the large X‐effect” during complex speciation
Authors: Presgraves Daven C.
Published: June 2018

The ubiquity of the “two rules of speciation”—Haldane's rule and the large X‐effect—implies a general, special role for sex chromosomes in the evolution of intrinsic postzygotic reproductive isolation. The recent proliferation of genome‐scale analyses has revealed two further general observations: (a) complex speciation involving some form of gene flow is not uncommon, and (b) sex chromosomes in male‐ and in female‐heterogametic taxa tend to show elevated differentiation relative to autosomes. Together, these observations are consistent with speciation histories in which population genetic differentiation at autosomal loci is reduced by gene flow while natural selection against hybrid incompatibilities renders sex chromosomes relatively refractory to gene flow. Here, I summarize multilocus population genetic and population genomic evidence for greater differentiation on the X (or Z) vs. the autosomes and consider the possible causes. I review common population genetic circumstances involving no selection and/or no interspecific gene flow that are nevertheless expected to elevate differentiation on sex chromosomes relative to autosomes. I then review theory for why large X‐effects exist for hybrid incompatibilities and, more generally, for loci mediating local adaptation. The observed levels of sex chromosome vs. autosomal differentiation, in many cases, appear consistent with simple explanations requiring neither large X‐effects nor gene flow. Discerning signatures of large X‐effects during complex speciation will therefore require analyses that go beyond chromosome‐scale summaries of population genetic differentiation, explicitly test for differential introgression, and/or integrate experimental genetic data.
An association between differential expression and genetic divergence in the Patagonian olive mouse (Abrothrix olivacea)
Authors: Giorello Facundo M. , Feijoo Matias , D'Elía Guillermo , Naya Daniel E. , Valdez Lourdes , Opazo Juan C. , Lessa Enrique P.
Published: June 2018

Recent molecular studies have found striking differences between desert‐adapted species and model mammals regarding water conservation. In particular, aquaporin 4, a classical gene involved in water regulation of model species, is absent or not expressed in the kidneys of desert‐adapted species. To further understand the molecular response to water availability, we studied the Patagonian olive mouse Abrothrix olivacea, a species with an unusually broad ecological tolerance that exhibits a great urine concentration capability. The species is able to occupy both the arid Patagonian steppe and the Valdivian and Magellanic forests. We sampled 95 olive mouse specimens from four localities (two in the steppe and two in the forests) and analysed both phenotypic variables and transcriptomic data to investigate the response of this species to the contrasting environmental conditions. The relative size of the kidney and the ratio of urine to plasma concentrations were, as expected, negatively correlated with annual rainfall. Expression analyses uncovered nearly 3,000 genes that were differentially expressed between steppe and forest samples and indicated that this species resorts to the “classical” gene pathways for water regulation. Differential expression across biomes also involves genes that involved in immune and detoxification functions. Overall, genes that were differentially expressed showed a slight tendency to be more divergent and to display an excess of intermediate allele frequencies, relative to the remaining loci. Our results indicate that both differential expression in pathways involved in water conservation and geographical allelic variation are important in the occupation of contrasting habitats by the Patagonian olive mouse.
Normativity in joint action
Authors: Gomez‐Lavin Javier , Rachar Matthew
Published: June 2018

The debate regarding the nature of joint action has come to a stalemate due to a dependence on intuitional methods. Normativists, such as Margaret Gilbert, argue that action‐relative normative relations are inherent in joint action, while non‐normativists, such as Michael Bratman, claim that there are minimal cases of joint action without normative relations. In this work, we describe the first experimental examinations of these intuitions, and report the results of six studies that weigh in favor of the normativist paradigm. Philosophical ramifications and further extensions of this work are then discussed.
Co‐occurrence of astrocytoma and astroblastoma: Case report and literature review
Authors: Sali Goksel , Briggs Robert G. , Conner Andrew K. , Palejwala Ali H. , Fung Kar‐Ming , Battiste James D. , Sughrue Michael E.
Published: June 2018

A 41‐year‐old man presented to us with left arm and leg weakness and mild word finding difficulties. His preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated abnormal T1 and T2 signal changes in the right temporal lobe and basal ganglia, indicative of possible glioma. An awake craniotomy for right temporal lobectomy was performed and the tumor was resected. Full pathologic workup later revealed the patient had two distinct tumors occurring simultaneously, anaplastic astrocytoma and astroblastoma. We review the literature regarding the treatment of anaplastic astrocytoma and astroblastoma and discuss their co‐occurrence.
High V‐PPase activity is beneficial under high salt loads, but detrimental without salinity
Authors: Graus Dorothea , Konrad Kai R. , Bemm Felix , Patir Nebioglu Meliha Görkem , Lorey Christian , Duscha Kerstin , Güthoff Tilman , Herrmann Johannes , Ferjani Ali , Cuin Tracey Ann , Roelfsema M. Rob G. , Schumacher Karin , Neuhaus H. Ekkehard , Marten Irene , Hedrich Rainer
Published: June 2018

The membrane‐bound proton‐pumping pyrophosphatase (V‐PPase), together with the V‐type H+‐ATPase, generates the proton motive force that drives vacuolar membrane solute transport. Transgenic plants constitutively overexpressing V‐PPases were shown to have improved salinity tolerance, but the relative impact of increasing PPi hydrolysis and proton‐pumping functions has yet to be dissected.

For a better understanding of the molecular processes underlying V‐PPase‐dependent salt tolerance, we transiently overexpressed the pyrophosphate‐driven proton pump (NbVHP) in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves and studied its functional properties in relation to salt treatment by primarily using patch‐clamp, impalement electrodes and pH imaging.

NbVHP overexpression led to higher vacuolar proton currents and vacuolar acidification. After 3 d in salt‐untreated conditions, V‐PPase‐overexpressing leaves showed a drop in photosynthetic capacity, plasma membrane depolarization and eventual leaf necrosis. Salt, however, rescued NbVHP‐hyperactive cells from cell death. Furthermore, a salt‐induced rise in V‐PPase but not of V‐ATPase pump currents was detected in nontransformed plants.

The results indicate that under normal growth conditions, plants need to regulate the V‐PPase pump activity to avoid hyperactivity and its negative feedback on cell viability. Nonetheless, V‐PPase proton pump function becomes increasingly important under salt stress for generating the pH gradient necessary for vacuolar proton‐coupled Na+ sequestration.
Systematic review of the evidence for sustained efficacy of dietary interventions for reducing appetite or energy intake
Authors: Halford J. C. G. , Masic U. , Marsaux C. F. M. , Jones A. J. , Lluch A. , Marciani L. , Mars M. , Vinoy S. , Westerterp‐Plantenga M. , Mela D. J.
Published: June 2018

We assessed evidence for changes in efficacy of food‐based interventions aimed at reducing appetite or energy intake (EI), and whether this could be used to provide guidance on trial design.

A systematic search identified randomized controlled trials testing sustained efficacy of diets, foods, supplements or food ingredients on appetite and/or EI. Trials had to include sufficient exposure duration (≥3 days) with appetite and/or EI measured after both acute and repeated exposures.

Twenty‐six trials met the inclusion criteria and reported data allowing for assessment of the acute and chronic effects of interventions. Most (21/26) measured appetite outcomes and over half (14/26) had objective measures of EI. A significant acute effect of the intervention was retained in 10 of 12 trials for appetite outcomes, and six of nine studies for EI. Initial effects were most likely retained where these were more robust and studies adequately powered. Where the initial, acute effect was not statistically significant, a significant effect was later observed in only two of nine studies for appetite and none of five studies for EI.

Maintenance of intervention effects on appetite or EI needs to be confirmed but seems likely where acute effects are robust and replicable in adequately powered studies.
Ion‐dependent metabolic responses of Vicia faba L. to salt stress
Authors: Richter Julia A. , Behr Jan H. , Erban Alexander , Kopka Joachim , Zörb Christian
Published: June 2018

Salt‐affected farmlands are increasingly burdened by chlorides, carbonates, and sulfates of sodium, calcium, and magnesium. Intriguingly, the underlying physiological processes are studied almost always under NaCl stress. Two faba bean cultivars were subjected to low‐ and high‐salt treatments of NaCl, Na2SO4, and KCl. Assimilation rate and leaf water vapor conductance were reduced to approximately 25–30% without biomass reduction after 7 days salt stress, but this did not cause severe carbon shortage. The equimolar treatments of Na+, K+, and Cl− showed comparable accumulation patterns in leaves and roots, except for SO42− which did not accumulate. To gain a detailed understanding of the effects caused by the tested ion combinations, we performed nontargeted gas chromatography–mass spectrometry‐based metabolite profiling. Metabolic responses to various salts were in part highly linearly correlated, but only a few metabolite responses were common to all salts and in both cultivars. At high salt concentrations, only myo‐inositol, allantoin, and glycerophosphoglycerol were highly significantly increased in roots under all tested conditions. We discovered several metabolic responses that were preferentially associated with the presence of Na+, K+, or Cl−. For example, increases of leaf proline and decreases of leaf fumaric acid and malic acid were apparently associated with Cl− accumulation.
MtMOT1.2 is responsible for molybdate supply to Medicago truncatula nodules
Authors: Gil‐Díez Patricia , Tejada‐Jiménez Manuel , León‐Mediavilla Javier , Wen Jiangqi , Mysore Kirankumar S. , Imperial Juan , González‐Guerrero Manuel
Published: June 2018

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation in legume root nodules requires a steady supply of molybdenum for synthesis of the iron‐molybdenum cofactor of nitrogenase. This nutrient has to be provided by the host plant from the soil, crossing several symplastically disconnected compartments through molybdate transporters, including members of the MOT1 family. Medicago truncatula Molybdate Transporter (MtMOT) 1.2 is a Medicago truncatula MOT1 family member located in the endodermal cells in roots and nodules. Immunolocalization of a tagged MtMOT1.2 indicates that it is associated to the plasma membrane and to intracellular membrane systems, where it would be transporting molybdate towards the cytosol, as indicated in yeast transport assays. Loss‐of‐function mot1.2‐1 mutant showed reduced growth compared with wild‐type plants when nitrogen fixation was required but not when nitrogen was provided as nitrate. While no effect on molybdenum‐dependent nitrate reductase activity was observed, nitrogenase activity was severely affected, explaining the observed difference of growth depending on nitrogen source. This phenotype was the result of molybdate not reaching the nitrogen‐fixing nodules, since genetic complementation with a wild‐type MtMOT1.2 gene or molybdate‐fortification of the nutrient solution, both restored wild‐type levels of growth and nitrogenase activity. These results support a model in which MtMOT1.2 would mediate molybdate delivery by the vasculature into the nodules.
Reactivity of recombinant Toxocara canis TES‐30/120 in experimentally infected mice
Authors: Santos Lucas Moreira dos , de Moura Micaele Quintana , Azevedo Morgana Lüdtke , Marques Giuli Argou , Avila Luciana Farias da Costa , Scaini Carlos James , Berne Maria Elisabeth , Moreira Ângela Nunes , Conceição Fabricio Rochedo
Published: June 2018

Aim

While the use of recombinant antigens is being widely investigated in the diagnosis of human toxocariasis, relatively little attention has been given to animal diagnostic models. For this reason, this study aimed to investigate the diagnosis potential of Toxocara canis TES‐30 and TES‐120 recombinant antigens in mice, the animal model for toxocariasis studies.

Methods and results

Serum samples obtained from mice infected with T. canis or Toxocara cati were tested by indirect ELISA using T. canis TES‐30 and TES‐120 recombinant antigens produced in Escherichia coli. 90% of the samples reacted with rTES‐30, whereas there was almost no reactivity with rTES‐120.

Conclusion

Despite rTES‐120 being a good antigen for diagnosis in humans, it could not reproduce its reactivity in this animal model. As rTES‐30 has good reactivity in mice, it is a valuable tool for diagnosis.
Comparing the values of progesterone in the blood of bitches as measured with a chemiluminescence immunoassay and a radioimmunoassay
Authors: Nöthling Johan O. , De Cramer Kurt G. M.
Published: June 2018

A 125I radioimmunoassay (RIA) has long been used to determine the value of progesterone in serum or plasma of bitches but was discontinued in 2014. A chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) gained prominence since 2003 to determine the value of progesterone in serum of bitches but the assay changed in 2012. This study assessed the agreement between progesterone values obtained with RIA in plasma (progRIA) and with the post‐2012 CLIA (progCLIA) in the serum of bitches. ProgCLIA was determined in 110 serum samples from 40 bitches in pro‐oestrus or early oestrus and compared to progRIA in plasma samples collected from the same bitches at the same time, where progRIA had a uniform distribution between 0.5 and 25 nmol/L. Two replicate analyses of each serum or plasma sample were simultaneously done in the same assay. For RIA and CLIA, the intra‐assay CVs were 5.85% and 6.70% and the interassay CVs 8.45% and 9.16%. For RIA and CLIA the progesterone values obtained with replicate analyses differed by as much as 11%–31% in 25% of samples. On average, the value of progCLIA was 85% of that of progRIA (95% CI 58%–112%, n = 110), with 88% of progCLIAs being lower than the progRIAs. This study shows that RIA and CLIA may yield replicate values that differ by as much as 11%–30% in about a quarter of samples analysed, necessitating replicate analyses if precise values are required. The study provides an equation by which to estimate progCLIA from progRIA.
Effect of parental origin on early life history traits of European eel
Authors: Benini Elisa , Politis Sebastian N. , Kottmann Johanna S. , Butts Ian A. E. , Sørensen Sune R. , Tomkiewicz Jonna
Published: June 2018

Establishment of European eel (Anguilla anguilla) hatchery production will rely on selectively bred individuals that produce progeny with the best traits in successive generations. As such, this study used a quantitative genetic breeding design, between four females and nine males (four wild‐caught and five cultured), to investigate the effect of paternal origin (wild‐caught vs. cultured) and quantify the relative importance of parental effects, including genetic compatibility, on early life history (ELH) performance traits (i.e. fertilization success, embryonic survival at 32 hr post‐fertilization, hatch success and larval deformities at 2 days post‐hatch) of European eel. Wild‐caught males had higher (56%) spermatocrit values than cultured males (45%), while fertilization success, embryonic survival, hatch success and larval deformities were not significantly impacted by paternal origin. This demonstrates that short‐term domestication of male eels does not negatively affect offspring quality and enables the consideration of cultured male broodstock in future breeding programmes. Moreover, paternity significantly explained 9.5% of the variability in embryonic survival, providing further evidence that paternal effects need to be taken into consideration in assisted reproduction protocols. Furthermore, maternity significantly explained 54.8% of the variation for fertilization success, 61.7% for embryonic survival, 88.1% for hatching success and 62.8% for larval deformities, validating that maternity is a major factor influencing these “critical” ELH traits. At last, the parental interaction explained 12.8% of the variation for fertilization success, 8.3% for embryonic survival, 4.5% for hatch success and 20.5% for larval deformities. Thus, we conclude that eggs of one female can develop more successfully when crossed with a compatible male, highlighting the importance of mate choice for successful propagation of high‐quality offspring. Together, this knowledge will improve early offspring performance, leading to future breeding programmes for this critically endangered and economically important species.
Developmental competence of in vitro matured ovine oocytes vitrified in solutions with different concentrations of trehalose
Authors: Sanaei Batool , Movaghar Bahar , Rezazadeh Valojerdi Mojtaba , Ebrahimi Bita , Bazrgar Masood , Hajian Mehdi , Nasr‐Esfahani Mohammad H.
Published: June 2018

This study aimed to determine the optimum concentration of trehalose in solutions used for vitrification of in vitro matured (IVM) ovine oocytes. IVM oocytes were randomly divided into four experimental (vitrified) and one control (fresh) groups. Experimental groups were treated with different concentrations (0.0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 M) of trehalose. After warming, some viable oocytes were exposed to 0.25% pronase to test zona pellucida hardening, whereas the others were fertilized and cultured in vitro for 8 days to evaluate their developmental competence. Blastocysts quality was assessed by differential staining and TUNEL test. Survival and developmental rates of oocytes vitrified in the presence of 0.5 M trehalose were significantly higher than those of the other vitrified groups. Furthermore, there was a significant difference between fresh and vitrified groups in total blastocyst rate. Analysis of blastocysts quality also revealed a significant difference between the group treated with 0.5 M trehalose and other groups in terms of apoptotic index. Furthermore,zona pellucida digestion time period was longer in trehalose‐free (0.0 M) group compared to other groups. In conclusion, we found that IVM ovine oocytes vitrified in solutions containing 0.5 M trehalose are fertilization‐competent and are able to produce good‐quality blastocysts with an apoptotic index comparable to that of the fresh oocytes. Therefore, 0.5 M may be considered the optimum concentration of trehalose to be used in solutions prepared for vitrification of oocytes.
Stretch imposed on active muscle elicits positive adaptations in strain risk factors and exercise‐induced muscle damage
Authors: Kay Anthony David , Rubley Bethanee , Talbot Chris , Mina Minas , Baross Anthony William , Blazevich Anthony John
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Stretching highly‐contracted plantar flexor muscles (isokinetic eccentric contractions) results in beneficial adaptations in muscle strain risk factors; however its effects in other muscle groups, and on architectural characteristics and exercise‐induced muscle damage (EIMD), are unknown.

Methods

The influence of a 6‐week knee extensor training program was studied in 26 volunteers (13 control; 13 experimental). Before and after the training program, passive and maximal isometric and eccentric knee extensor moments and range of motion (ROM) were recorded on an isokinetic dynamometer with simultaneous ultrasound imaging of vastus lateralis (VL). On a separate day, EIMD markers (creatine kinase [CK], delayed onset muscle soreness [DOMS]) were measured before and 24 hours after a 20‐minute downhill run. The 6‐week training program was performed twice‐weekly where five sets of 12 stretches (3 seconds per stretch) were imposed on maximally contracted knee extensor muscles.

Results

Significant (P < 0.05) increases in eccentric (29.5%) and isometric (17.4%) moments, ROM (5.2°), stretch tolerance (55.4%), elastic energy storage (73.0%), VL thickness (7.8%), pennation angle (9.0%), and tendon stiffness (8.7%) occurred. No change (P > 0.05) in passive muscle‐tendon stiffness (−9.4%) or resting fascicle length (−0.7%) occurred. The downhill run resulted in substantial DOMS and significant increase in CK concentration before the training program (107.6%); however, DOMS was eliminated from the knee extensors and a significantly smaller increase in CK (−70.0%) occurred post‐training.

Conclusion

Positive adaptations in functional and physiological variables confirm that imposing stretch on maximally contracted muscle provides beneficial adaptations likely to mitigate EIMD and injury risk and enhance functional performance.
How political incentives affect Chinese outward foreign direct investment: A UN Security Council membership perspective
Authors: Ma Hong , Teng Yue
Published: June 2018

The UN Security Council has made great contributions to global peace and security over the past 70 years. The five permanent members and ten non‐permanent members of the council share the responsibility by voting for the Security Council resolutions together. In this paper, we study whether Chinese outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) has been influenced by political incentives from perspective of the UN Security Council. Using China's Global Investment Data from 2005 to 2015 provided by the Heritage Foundation, we find that a country attracts more Chinese OFDI when it rotates onto the council. Such an effect increases during the important years when member's votes should be more valuable and among the countries which do not have close cooperation with China.
Use of radiography, ultrasonography, and computed tomography in the diagnosis of a pyogranulomatous ureteral mass in a cat
Authors: Huynh Elizabeth , Bascuñán Ana Luisa , Case J. Brad , Berry Clifford R.
Published: June 2018

An 8‐year‐old, spayed female, domestic short haired cat, with diabetes mellitus, was presented to the University of Florida Veterinary Medical Center for an acute onset of vomiting and inappetence. Abdominal radiographs showed mild retroperitoneal effusion and asymmetric left‐sided renomegaly. Subsequently, on abdominal ultrasound, a hypoechoic left ureteral mass with left hydronephrosis and hydroureter was identified. An abdominal computed tomography revealed a heterogeneously contrast‐enhancing mass circumferentially surrounding the mid to distal left ureter, mild retroperitoneal effusion, left‐sided hydronephrosis and hydroureter, and a distally located ureteral calculus at the level of the ureterovesicular junction. The patient was diagnosed with left‐sided pyogranulomatous ureteritis via surgical biopsy and histopathology.
Extreme Modelling of Missing Acacia Mangium Height Data
Authors: Adam Mohd Bakri
Published: June 2018

Logging activity is one of the most important activities for tropical coun-tries including Malaysia, as it produces quality trees for papers. One of the importanttree species is the Acacia Mangium which it produces a soft tree for papermaking en-terprises. The papers are exported to Europe and countries which have high demandfor paper due to the rapid development of the printing industry. Thus we analyzed theheight for individual trees. We investigate the maximum height of the trees from 1990to 2006 and we t the data using extreme value model. Some of the data are missingand three imputation methods we used to solve this problem.