bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro Characterization of Phenylacetate Decarboxylase, a Novel Enzyme Catalyzing Toluene Biosynthesis in an Anaerobic Microbial Community
Authors: Zargar K. , Saville R. , Phelan R. M. , Tringe S. G. , Petzold C. J. , Keasling J. D. , Beller H. R.
Published: August 2016

Anaerobic bacterial biosynthesis of toluene from phenylacetate was reported more than two decades ago, but the biochemistry underlying this novel metabolism has never been elucidated. Here we report results of in vitro characterization studies of a novel phenylacetate decarboxylase from an anaerobic, sewage-derived enrichment culture that quantitatively produces toluene from phenylacetate; complementary metagenomic and metaproteomic analyses are also presented. Among the noteworthy findings is that this enzyme is not the well-characterized clostridial p-hydroxyphenylacetate decarboxylase (CsdBC). However, the toluene synthase under study appears to be able to catalyze both phenylacetate and p-hydroxyphenylacetate decarboxylation. Observations suggesting that phenylacetate and p-hydroxyphenylacetate decarboxylation in complex cell-free extracts were catalyzed by the same enzyme include the following: (i) the specific activity for both substrates was comparable in cell-free extracts, (ii) the two activities displayed identical behavior during chromatographic separation of cell-free extracts, (iii) both activities were irreversibly inactivated upon exposure to O2 and (iv) both activities were similarly inhibited by an amide analog of p-hydroxyphenylacetate. Based upon these and other data, we hypothesize that the toluene synthase reaction involves a glycyl radical decarboxylase. This first-time study of the phenylacetate decarboxylase reaction constitutes an important step in understanding and ultimately harnessing it for making bio-based toluene.
Enemies with benefits: parasitic endoliths protect mussels against heat stress
Authors: Zardi G. I. , Nicastro K. R. , McQuaid C. D. , Ng T. P. T. , Lathlean J. , Seuront L.
Published: August 2016

Positive and negative aspects of species interactions can be context dependant and strongly affected by environmental conditions. We tested the hypothesis that, during periods of intense heat stress, parasitic phototrophic endoliths that fatally degrade mollusc shells can benefit their mussel hosts. Endolithic infestation significantly reduced body temperatures of sun-exposed mussels and, during unusually extreme heat stress, parasitised individuals suffered lower mortality rates than non-parasitised hosts. This beneficial effect was related to the white discolouration caused by the excavation activity of endoliths. Under climate warming, species relationships may be drastically realigned and conditional benefits of phototrophic endolithic parasites may become more important than the costs of infestation.
A chiroptical molecular sensor for ferrocene
Authors: Agnes Marco , Nitti Andrea , Vander Griend Douglas A. , Dondi Daniele , Merli Daniele , Pasini Dario
Published: August 2016

A chiral molecular sensor is used to recognize ferrocene, with the chiroptical readout used selectively in the presence of competing analytes.
Combined PDF and Rietveld studies of ADORable zeolites and the disordered intermediate IPC-1P
Authors: Morris Samuel A. , Wheatley Paul S. , Položij Miroslav , Nachtigall Petr , Eliášová Pavla , Čejka Jiří , Lucas Tim C. , Hriljac Joseph A. , Pinar Ana B. , Morris Russell E.
Published: August 2016

The disordered intermediate, IPC-1P, formed from the ADORable zeolite UTL has been structurally confirmed using the pair distribution function (PDF) technique.
A fully automated microfluidic micellar electrokinetic chromatography analyzer for organic compound detection
Authors: Jang Lee-Woon , Razu Md Enayet , Jensen Erik C. , Jiao Hong , Kim Jungkyu
Published: August 2016

A fully automated micellar electrokinetic chromatography analyzer is developed using Lifting-Gate microvalves, vacuum-driven washing system, and capillary zone electrophoresis chip.
Structural tailoring of the NIR-absorption of bis(1,2-dichalcogenolene) Ni/Pt electrochromophores deriving from 1,3-dimethyl-2-chalcogenoxo-imidazoline-4,5-dichalcogenolates
Authors: Deiana Carlo , Carla Aragoni M. , Isaia Francesco , Lippolis Vito , Pintus Anna , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Derek Woollins J. , Arca Massimiliano
Published: August 2016

Bis(1,2-dithiolene) and (1,2-diselenolene) Ni and Pt complexes with 2-chalcogenoxo-imidazoline-4,5-dichalcogenolates show intense NIR electrochromism tunable by structural modifications.
Design, synthesis and SAR study of novel sulfonylureas containing an alkenyl moiety
Authors: Wei Wei , Cheng Dandan , Liu Jingbo , Li Yuxin , Ma Yi , Li Yonghong , Yu Shujing , Zhang Xiao , Li Zhengming
Published: August 2016

A series of sulfonylurea compounds was designed and synthesizedviaintroducing an alkenyl moiety into the aryl-5 position and most title compounds exhibited enhanced antifungal activities and limited herbicidal activities compared with chlorsulfuron.
pH-Triggered release of gemcitabine from polymer coated nanodiamonds fabricated by RAFT polymerization and copper free click chemistry
Authors: Lai Haiwang , Lu Mingxia , Lu Hongxu , Stenzel Martina H. , Xiao Pu
Published: August 2016

Prodrug (gemcitabine)-based polymer coated nanodiamonds as stimuli-responsive drug delivery platforms for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
GSH-responsive polymeric micelles based on the thio–ene reaction for controlled drug release
Authors: Cao Hongliang , Song Huajie , Xie Debiao , Chen Chao , Chen Xin , Wang Ping , Wang Wenxin
Published: August 2016

A glutathione (GSH) responsive drug carrier is prepared that relies on the thio–ene reaction of olefinic bonds and GSH.
Connecting achievement motivation to performance in general chemistry
Authors: Ferrell Brent , Phillips Michael M. , Barbera Jack
Published: August 2016

Student success in chemistry is inherently tied to motivational and other affective processes. We investigated three distinct constructs tied to motivation: self-efficacy, interest, and effort beliefs. These variables were measured twice over the course of a semester in three sections of a first-semester general chemistry course (n= 170). We explored the connections that exist among these three constructs as well as their connections to course performance. Multiple regression and path analysis revealed that self-efficacy measured during week 12 was the strongest predictor of final course grade followed by situational interest. We also report that personal interest is a significant predictor of future self-efficacy. Our results add to the growing literature on psychological constructs within chemistry education by identifying variables related to motivation that have a significant connection to course performance among chemistry students. We briefly address how these variables could be targeted in the classroom.
Adaptive protection coordination scheme for power networks under penetration of distributed energy resources
Authors: Singh Manohar , Vishnuvardhan Telukunta , Srivani S.G.
Published: August 2016

Integration of distributed energy resources in power networks make them interconnected and active. Depending upon the type, short circuit capability and location of distributed energy resource in transmission and distribution systems, design of protection coordination schemes becomes very challenging. Complexity further increases in the design of protection coordination schemes, when penetration effect of these resources reaches to upstream transmission lines and coordination among the distance and over current relays requires a review. The protection coordination scheme discussed in this article monitors the state of power network continuously. Depending upon the operational topology of the network, time dial settings as well as plug settings of over current relays and zone‐2 setting of distance relays are selected from pre‐optimsed relay group settings. Whenever there is any change in the network fault level either due to change in line parameters or incoming of new distributed energy resource, new relay group settings are communicated to corresponding relays. The proposed protection coordination scheme is implemented in RSCAD software for modified eight bus test bus and modified IEEE14 bus system. It is observed that the proposed protection approach is highly flexible to maintain the coordination among the over current and distance relays.
A law of the wall for turbulent boundary layers with suction: Stevenson’s formula revisited
Authors: Vigdorovich Igor
Published: August 2016

The turbulent velocity field in the viscous sublayer of the boundary layer with suction to a first approximation is homogeneous in any direction parallel to the wall and is determined by only three constant quantities — the wall shear stress, the suction velocity, and the fluid viscosity. This means that there exists a finite algebraic relation between the turbulent shear stress and the longitudinal mean-velocity gradient, using which as a closure condition for the equations of motion, we establish an exact asymptotic behavior of the velocity profile at the outer edge of the viscous sublayer. The obtained relationship provides a generalization of the logarithmic law to the case of wall suction.
Controlling the stability of both the structure and velocity of domain walls in magnetic nanowires
Authors: Brandão J. , Atkinson D.
Published: August 2016

For magnetic nanowire devices, the precise control of both domain wall (DW) motion and pinning behaviour is essential for reliable functional performance. The domain wall velocity and wall structure are typically sensitive to the driving field or spin-polarized current, and the pinning behaviour depends on the walls' structure and chirality, leading to variability in behaviour. Here, a systematic study combining experimental measurements and micromagnetic simulations of planar nanowires with small fixed-angle structural modulations on both edges was undertaken to study the domain wall reversal regime. A phase diagram for the reversal field as a function of modulation amplitude was obtained that shows that three DW reversal regime. A range of field and modulation amplitudes were identified in which stable DW reversal occurs, where the wall velocity is constant as a function of field and the wall structure is stable, which is well suited to applications.
An optical fiber Fabry-Perot flow measurement technology based on partial bend structure
Authors: Yang Huijia , Jiang Junfeng , Zhang Xuezhi , Pan Yuheng , Zhu Wanshan , Zhou Xiang , Liu Tiegen
Published: August 2016

An optical fiber Fabry-Perot (F-P) flow measurement technology is presented, which is based on partial bend structure. A 90° partial bend structure is designed to achieve the non-probe flow measurement with a pressure difference. The fluid simulation results of partial bend structure show that the error of the pressure difference is below 0.05 kPa during steady flow. The optical fiber F-P sensor mounted on the elbow with pressure test accuracy of 1% full scale is used to measure the fluid flow. Flow test results show that when the flow varies from 1 m3/h to 6.5 m3/h at ambient temperature of 25 °C, the response time is 1 s and the flow test accuracy is 4.5% of the F-P flow test system, proving that the F-P flow test method based on partial bend structure can be used in fluid flow measurement.
A simple photoionization scheme for characterizing electron and ion spectrometers
Authors: Wituschek A. , von Vangerow J. , Grzesiak J. , Stienkemeier F. , Mudrich M.
Published: August 2016

We present a simple diode laser-based photoionization scheme for generating electrons and ions with well-defined spatial and energetic (≲2 eV) structures. This scheme can easily be implemented in ion or electron imaging spectrometers for the purpose of off-line characterization and calibration. The low laser power ∼1 mW needed from a passively stabilized diode laser and the low flux of potassium atoms in an effusive beam make our scheme a versatile source of ions and electrons for applications in research and education.
Broadband transverse electric surface wave in silicene
Authors: Ukhtary M. Shoufie , Nugraha Ahmad R. T. , Hasdeo Eddwi H. , Saito Riichiro
Published: August 2016

Transverse electric (TE) surface wave in silicine is theoretically investigated. The TE surface wave in silicene is found to exhibit better characteristics compared with that in graphene, in terms of a broader frequency range and more confinement to the surface which originate from the buckled structure of silicene. We found that even undoped silicene can support the TE surface wave. We expect the similar characteristics of the TE surface wave in other two-dimensional materials that have a slightly buckled honeycomb lattice.
L-shell spectroscopic diagnostics of radiation from krypton HED plasma sources
Authors: Petkov E. E. , Safronova A. S. , Kantsyrev V. L. , Shlyaptseva V. V. , Rawat R. S. , Tan K. S. , Beiersdorfer P. , Hell N. , Brown G. V.
Published: August 2016

X-ray spectroscopy is a useful tool for diagnosing plasma sources due to its non-invasive nature. One such source is the dense plasma focus (DPF). Recent interest has developed to demonstrate its potential application as a soft x-ray source. We present the first spectroscopic studies of krypton high energy density plasmas produced on a 3 kJ DPF device in Singapore. In order to diagnose spectral features, and to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of plasma parameters, a new non-local thermodynamic equilibrium L-shell kinetic model for krypton was developed. It has the capability of incorporating hot electrons, with different electron distribution functions, in order to examine the effects that they have on emission spectra. To further substantiate the validity of this model, it is also benchmarked with data gathered from experiments on the electron beam ion trap (EBIT) at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, where data were collected using the high resolution EBIT calorimeter spectrometer.
Multicolor fluorescent light-emitting diodes based on cesium lead halide perovskite quantum dots
Authors: Wang Peng , Bai Xue , Sun Chun , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zhang Tieqiang , Zhang Yu
Published: August 2016

High quantum yield, narrow full width at half-maximum and tunable emission color of perovskite quantum dots (QDs) make this kind of material good prospects for light-emitting diodes (LEDs). However, the relatively poor stability under high temperature and air condition limits the device performance. To overcome this issue, the liquid-type packaging structure in combination with blue LED chip was employed to fabricate the fluorescent perovskite quantum dot-based LEDs. A variety of monochromatic LEDs with green, yellow, reddish-orange, and red emission were fabricated by utilizing the inorganic cesium lead halide perovskite quantum dots as the color-conversion layer, which exhibited the narrow full width at half-maximum (<35 nm), the relatively high luminous efficiency (reaching 75.5 lm/W), and the relatively high external quantum efficiency (14.6%), making it the best-performing perovskite LEDs so far. Compared to the solid state LED device, the liquid-type LED devices exhibited excellent color stability against the various working currents. Furthermore, we demonstrated the potential prospects of all-inorganic perovskite QDs for the liquid-type warm white LEDs.
Rewritable three-dimensional holographic data storage via optical forces
Authors: Yetisen Ali K. , Montelongo Yunuen , Butt Haider
Published: August 2016

The development of nanostructures that can be reversibly arranged and assembled into 3D patterns may enable optical tunability. However, current dynamic recording materials such as photorefractive polymers cannot be used to store information permanently while also retaining configurability. Here, we describe the synthesis and optimization of a silver nanoparticle doped poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid) recording medium for reversibly recording 3D holograms. We theoretically and experimentally demonstrate organizing nanoparticles into 3D assemblies in the recording medium using optical forces produced by the gradients of standing waves. The nanoparticles in the recording medium are organized by multiple nanosecond laser pulses to produce reconfigurable slanted multilayer structures. We demonstrate the capability of producing rewritable optical elements such as multilayer Bragg diffraction gratings, 1D photonic crystals, and 3D multiplexed optical gratings. We also show that 3D virtual holograms can be reversibly recorded. This recording strategy may have applications in reconfigurable optical elements, data storage devices, and dynamic holographic displays.
Unprecedented toxic algal blooms impact on Tasmanian seafood industry
Authors: Hallegraeff Gustaaf , Bolch Christopher
Published: August 2016

While most microscopic algae provide food for filter-feeding shellfish and larvae of crustaceans and finfish, other so-called Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) can have negative effects, causing severe economic losses to aquaculture, fisheries and tourism. Of greatest concern to human society are blooms of toxic HAB species that cause illness and death of fish, seabirds and mammals via toxins transferred through the food web. Unprecedented Alexandrium (Dinophyceae) blooms along the East Coast of Tasmania in 2012 and 2015, a previously low biotoxin risk area, led to major impacts on the local oyster, mussel, scallop and rock lobster industries. Four human hospitalisations also occurred from eating wild shellfish.
The importance of managing and conserving large old trees: a case study from Victorian Mountain Ash forests
Authors: Lindenmayer David
Published: August 2016

Large old trees are critical structures in the Mountain Ash forests of the Central Highlands of Victoria. They perform many critical ecological and other roles. Populations of these trees are also in serious decline. A range of key management strategies is needed to arrest the decline of existing populations of large old trees and instigate population recovery. In particular all existing large old trees need to be properly protected with adequate buffers of uncut forest. In addition, all stands of old-growth forest, irrespective of their size, need to be protected to ensure they are not logged. The size of the old-growth estate also must be expanded so that it encompasses at least 30%‒50% of the distribution of Mountain Ash. Finally, the recruitment of new cohorts of large old trees is critically important to replace existing trees when they are lost. To achieve this, large areas of existing regrowth forest that regenerated after the 1939 fires need to be excluded from logging and grown through to an old-growth stage. Implementation of altered management in Mountain Ash forests is urgent, as delays in policies will exacerbate the decline of this significant population of large old trees in south-eastern Australia.
Is sexual content in new media linked to sexual risk behaviour in young people? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Smith Lucy Watchirs , Liu Bette , Degenhardt Louisa , Richters Juliet , Patton George , Wand Handan , Cross Donna , Hocking Jane S. , Skinner S. Rachel , Cooper Spring , Lumby Catharine , Kaldor John M. , Guy Rebecca
Published: August 2016

Background: Social networking and digital media increasingly have an impact on the lives of young people. We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that examined the relationship between exposure to sexually explicit websites (SEWs) and ‘sexting’ (i.e. sending semi-nude or nude photos from a mobile phone) and the sexual attitudes and practices of young people. Methods: In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses statement, Medline, EMBASE and PsycINFO were searched for papers that described the statistical association between viewing SEWs or sexting by young people (defined as 10–24 years) and their sexual attitudes and behaviours. Results: Fourteen studies, all cross-sectional in design, met the inclusion criteria. Six studies (10 352 participants) examined young people’s exposure to SEWs and eight (10 429 participants) examined sexting. There was substantial variation across studies in exposure and outcome definitions. Meta-analyses found that SEW exposure was correlated with condomless sexual intercourse (odds ratio (OR) 1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08–1.38, two studies); sexting was correlated with ever having had sexual intercourse (OR 5.58, 95% CI: 4.46–6.71, five studies), recent sexual activity (OR 4.79, 95% CI: 3.55–6.04, two studies), alcohol and other drug use before sexual intercourse (OR 2.65, 95% CI: 1.99–3.32, two studies) and multiple recent sexual partners (OR 2.79, 95% CI: 1.95–3.63, two studies). Most studies had limited adjustment for important potential confounders. Conclusions: Cross-sectional studies show a strong association between self-reported exposure to sexual content in new media and sexual behaviours in young people. Longitudinal studies would provide a greater opportunity to adjust for confounding, and better insight into the causal pathways underlying the observed associations.
Lyme disease and relapsing feverBorreliaelongate through zones of peptidoglycan synthesis that mark division sites of daughter cells
Authors: Jutras Brandon Lyon , Scott Molly , Parry Bradley , Biboy Jacob , Gray Joe , Vollmer Waldemar , Jacobs-Wagner Christine
Published: August 2016

Significance

Spirochetes pose a significant threat to human and animal health, yet little is understood about how these bacteria grow and divide. We discovered that Lyme disease and relapsing fever spirochetes elongate by synthesizing peptidoglycan, a major component of the cell wall, in discrete zones that are spatially regulated over the cell cycle. Zones of cell growth are established in the previous generation and mark future sites of cell division in the next cell cycle. In contrast, other genera display nearly uniform cell wall synthesis, which is commonly reported in bacteria. The distinctive mode of growth exhibited by the Lyme disease and relapsing fever spirochetes may provide an avenue for the strategic design of targeted antimicrobial therapies.
Using visual guidance to retrain an experienced golfer's gaze: A case study
Authors: Bishop Daniel T. , Addington Neil , D'Innocenzo Giorgia
Published: August 2016

Eye movements are essential for both predictive and reactive control of complex motor skills such as the golf swing. We examined the use of a visually guided learning protocol to retrain an experienced golfer's point‐of‐gaze immediately prior to execution of the full golf swing; his swing, and his gaze behaviour, had become established over more than a decade of practice and competition. Performance and eye movement data were obtained, from baseline, through intervention, to retention, for a total of 159 shots struck at a target 200 yards away. Results show that, at baseline, not only was the golfer's point‐of‐gaze not at the intended/predicted location, at the top‐rear of the ball, but there was also high trial‐to‐trial variability. A bespoke visual guidance protocol improved his gaze behaviour considerably, in terms of accuracy and consistency – and this was reflected in accuracy and consistency of his shots. Implications of oculomotor interventions for the relearning of established motor skills are discussed.
Effectiveness of Acupressure in Promoting Sleep Quality
Authors: Hmwe Nant Thin Thin , Subramaniam Pathmawathi , Tan Li Ping
Published: August 2016

This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of acupressure in promoting sleep quality among adults. Study findings included in the review showed that acupressure significantly improved sleep quality compared with the control group, but no superior effect of acupressure was found compared with sham acupressure.
Self-Monitoring of Intraocular Pressure Outside of Normal Office Hours Using Rebound Tonometry: Initial Clinical Experience in Patients With Normal Tension Glaucoma
Authors: Sood Vaneeta , Ramanathan Uthaya S.
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

To determine the value and accuracy of 24-hour intraocular pressure (IOP) phasing using Icare ONE rebound tonometry (RTONE), in subjects with normal tension glaucoma (NTG).

Methods:

Eighteen consecutive patients with treated NTG were studied, all subjects had undergone 24-hour IOP phasing during a 1-year period. Each patient had daytime (08:00 to 16:00) IOP phasing with Goldmann applanation tonometer at 2-hourly intervals; at these same time points an IOP reading was also obtained by the patient using RTONE. Self-measured IOPs were then recorded at home using RTONE between 18:00 and 06:00 (at 2-hourly intervals). The frequency with which the phasing results altered clinical management was evaluated.

Results:

The mean peak IOP was significantly higher during nighttime phasing (15.78±4.8 mm Hg) compared with daytime phasing (12.83±2.7 mm Hg, P=0.0018) and clinic IOP measurements (11.8±1.6 mm Hg, P<0.0001). Following IOP phasing a change in management occurred in 10 of 18 patients (56%). In the majority of these patients, a peak IOP was identified during nighttime phasing compared with daytime phasing, this difference was significant (P=0.0090). There were strong correlations between the IOP measurements obtained with Goldmann applanation tonometer and RTONE (Spearman r values >0.60, P<0.001).

Conclusions:

This study suggests that in patients with NTG with progression that is disproportionate to their clinic IOP measurements, 24-hour phasing can reveal higher IOP spikes than those identified during typical office hours. RTONE is a safe, easy to use, and accurate device for self-monitoring of IOP.
Neuropsychological Testing in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Arnett Peter , Meyer Jessica , Merritt Victoria , Guty Erin
Published: August 2016

Barth and colleagues’ seminal study using baseline neuropsychological testing as a model for sports concussion management serves as the template for many collegiate sports medicine programs. However, there remains a significant need for an evidence-based strategy in cases where no baseline testing has been conducted. In this article, we further articulate such a model based on work with athletes at our Division I university. The foundation of the model involves base rates of impairment in a typical neurocognitive sports concussion battery, with decision rules that differ slightly for males and females. There is flexibility in the model such that its application can start during an acute period postconcussion when athletes are still potentially symptomatic, as well as after athletes self-report being symptom free. We use our population of collegiate athletes and the tests we administer as a framework to provide concrete values to the proposed algorithm based on specific tests, but the logic of our evidence-based model could easily be applied to other sports concussion populations and neurocognitive test batteries. Our proposed neuropsychological concussion management guidelines are evidence based, but also allow for accommodating trends in the literature which suggest that increasingly individualistic clinical concussion management approaches are most prudent.
Increased Partner Risk Characteristic Among Adolescents Using Alcohol In the Moment
Authors: Staras Stephanie AS. , Livingston Melvin D. , Komro Kelli A.
Published: August 2016

Background

Alcohol is a recognized risk factor for sexually transmitted diseases acquisition, but the mechanism is unclear. Potentially, adolescents using alcohol in the 2 hours before sex (in-the-moment use) have riskier sexual partners.

Methods

We used multivariable logistic regression to examine the association between in-the-moment alcohol use and partner risk characteristics reported for the most recent sex among primarily 17- to 18-year-old adolescents originally recruited from a representative sample of Chicago public elementary schools. We created 3 composite partner risk profiles: partner familiarity risk (casual and unexpected), partner context risk (age discordance and met in public), and overall risk using all measures except partner alcohol use.

Results

Teens who reported any in-the-moment alcohol use were more likely than nondrinking teens to report casual (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 3.2; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 2.1–4.9), unexpected (AOR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.0–2.5), age discordant (AOR, 3.0; 95% CI, 2.0–4.6), or met in public partners (AOR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.0 to 2.1). For each composite measure, the number of partner risk characteristics reported increased linearly with the percent of teens drinking in the moment (Cochran-Armitage trend, P < 0.0001). Compared with zero characteristics, in-the-moment alcohol use was associated with increased odds of reporting 1 (AOR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.7–4.5), 2 (AOR, 4.6; 95% CI, 2.7, 7.6), or 3 to 4 characteristics (AOR, 7.1; 95% CI, 3.3–15.3).

Conclusions

Our findings expand the link between in-the-moment alcohol use and partner risk reported in prior studies to encompass adolescents' general sexual experiences and additional partner characteristics including the highly associated composite characteristics.
A Daily Diary Analysis of Condom Breakage and Slippage During Vaginal Sex or Anal Sex Among Adolescent Women
Authors: Hensel Devon J. , Selby Sarah , Tanner Amanda E. , Fortenberry J. Dennis
Published: August 2016

Background

Adolescent women are disproportionately impacted by the adverse outcomes associated with sexual activity, including sexually transmitted infections (STI). Condoms as a means of prevention relies on use that is free of usage failure, including breakage and/or slippage. This study examined the daily prevalence of and predictors of condom breakage and/or slippage during vaginal sex and during anal sex among adolescent women.

Methods

Adolescent women (N = 387; 14 to 17 years) were recruited from primary care clinics for a longitudinal cohort study of STIs and sexual behavior. Data were daily partner-specific sexual diaries. Random intercept mixed-effects logistic regression was used to estimate the fixed effect of each predictor on condom breakage/slippage during vaginal or during anal sex (Stata, 13.0), adjusting model coefficients for the correlation between repeated within-participant diary entries.

Results

Condom slippage and/or breakage varied across sexual behaviors and was associated with individual-specific (eg, age and sexual interest) and partner-specific factors (eg, negativity). Recent behavioral factors (eg, experiencing slippage and/or breakage in the past week) were the strongest predictors of current condom slippage and/or breakage during vaginal or anal sex.

Conclusions

Factors associated with young women's condom breakage/slippage during vaginal or during anal sex should be integrated as part of STI prevention efforts and should be assessed as part of ongoing routine clinical care.
Attitudes and Willingness to Assume Risk of Experimental Therapy to Eradicate Genital Herpes Simplex Virus Infection
Authors: Oseso Linda , Magaret Amalia S. , Jerome Keith R. , Fox Julie , Wald Anna
Published: August 2016

Background

Current treatment of genital herpes is focused on ameliorating signs and symptoms but is not curative. However, as potential herpes simplex virus (HSV) cure approaches are tested in the laboratory, we aimed to assess the interest in such studies by persons with genital herpes and the willingness to assume risks associated with experimental therapy.

Methods

We constructed an anonymous online questionnaire that was posted on websites that provide information regarding genital herpes. The questions collected demographic and clinical information on adults who self-reported as having genital herpes, and assessed attitudes toward and willingness to participate in HSV cure clinical research.

Results

Seven hundred eleven participants provided sufficient responses to be included in the analysis. Sixty-six percent were women; the median age was 37 years, and the median time since genital HSV diagnosis was 4.7 years. The willingness to participate in trials increased from 59.0% in phase 1 to 68.5% in phase 2, and 81.2% in phase 3 trials, and 40% reported willingness to participate even in the absence of immediate, personal benefits. The most desirable outcome was the elimination of risk for transmission to sex partner or neonate. The mean perceived severity of receiving a diagnosis of genital HSV-2 was 4.2 on a scale of 1 to 5.

Conclusions

Despite suppressive therapy available, persons with genital herpes are interested in participating in clinical research aimed at curing HSV, especially in more advanced stages of development.
The Added Value of Pathology Review in Vulvar Cancer: Results From a Population-based Cohort Study
Authors: Barbera Lisa , Gien Lilian T. , Sutradhar Rinku , Thomas Gillian , Covens Al , Elit Laurie , Fyles Anthony , Rakovitch Eileen , Liu Ying , Khalifa Mahmoud
Published: August 2016

We conducted a population-based patterns of care study of vulvar carcinoma. This paper describes the changes in reporting based on pathology review. This is a retrospective population-based cohort study. We obtained all pathology records available from the provincial cancer registry for primary invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva diagnosed between 1998 and 2007. Pathology reviews were conducted centrally by a group of gynecologic pathologists and were identified during abstraction. Corresponding original reports were matched to pathology review reports based on accession numbers. We compared the reported value for presence/absence of invasion, grade, depth, thickness, size, lymphovascular space invasion, peripheral margin status, and deep margin status in the original and review report. A total of 1011 vulvar resection reports were identified. From these, we identified 316 pairs of original/review reports. Missing data were common but improved in the reviews. In total, 55 (17%) reports had at least 1 change from the original to the review based on presence of invasion, depth, lymphovascular space invasion, or margin. When we included reports where a variable was missing in the original but then completed in the review, there were clinically relevant changes in 210 reports (66%). Vulvar carcinoma is a rare diagnosis and pathology reviews resulted in potentially important clinical changes in a significant proportion of cases. Referral pathologists play an important role in contributing to high-quality clinical decisions.
Seascape and life-history traits do not predict self-recruitment in a coral reef fish
Authors: Herrera Marcela , Nanninga Gerrit B. , Planes Serge , Jones Geoffrey P. , Thorrold Simon R. , Saenz-Agudelo Pablo , Almany Glenn R. , Berumen Michael L.
Published: August 2016

The persistence and resilience of many coral reef species are dependent on rates of connectivity among sub-populations. However, despite increasing research efforts, the spatial scale of larval dispersal remains unpredictable for most marine metapopulations. Here, we assess patterns of larval dispersal in the angelfish
Centropyge bicolor
in Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea, using parentage and sibling reconstruction analyses based on 23 microsatellite DNA loci. We found that, contrary to previous findings in this system, self-recruitment (SR) was virtually absent at both the reef (0.4–0.5% at 0.15 km
2
) and the lagoon scale (0.6–0.8% at approx. 700 km
2
). While approximately 25% of the collected juveniles were identified as potential siblings, the majority of sibling pairs were sampled from separate reefs. Integrating our findings with earlier research from the same system suggests that geographical setting and life-history traits alone are not suitable predictors of SR and that high levels of localized recruitment are not universal in coral reef fishes.
Spider silk felting—functional morphology of the ovipositor tip of
Clistopyga
sp. (Ichneumonidae) reveals a novel use of the hymenopteran ovipositor
Authors: Fritzén Niclas R. , Sääksjärvi Ilari E.
Published: August 2016

Apical serrations of the hymenopteran ovipositor have been widely postulated to originally constitute adaptations for cutting through hard substrates. Simplifications of the ovipositor tip have occurred in several ichneumonid wasp genera associated with spiders. Despite such reduction in
Clistopyga
(Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae), the ovipositor still possesses some apical serrations. Through the first detailed study, we believe, on the behaviour of an ovipositing
Clistopyga
species, we show that it can alter its ovipositor for different purposes and that the primary function of the apical serrations is clinging to its spider host as the spider attempts to escape. Intriguingly, we also discover a hitherto undocumented adaptation for the hymenopteran ovipositor. The female wasp seals openings in the silken spider nest by using its ovipositor on the silk in a highly sophisticated way that is comparable to how humans entangle wool by needle felting. By studying the ovipositor morphology through a scanning electron microscope, we elucidate how this works, and we hypothesize that by closing the nest the female wasp protects its developing kin.
Sampling methods for exploring between-subject variability in cardiac electrophysiology experiments
Authors: Drovandi C. C. , Cusimano N. , Psaltis S. , Lawson B. A. J. , Pettitt A. N. , Burrage P. , Burrage K.
Published: August 2016

Between-subject and within-subject variability is ubiquitous in biology and physiology, and understanding and dealing with this is one of the biggest challenges in medicine. At the same time, it is difficult to investigate this variability by experiments alone. A recent modelling and simulation approach, known as population of models (POM), allows this exploration to take place by building a mathematical model consisting of multiple parameter sets calibrated against experimental data. However, finding such sets within a high-dimensional parameter space of complex electrophysiological models is computationally challenging. By placing the POM approach within a statistical framework, we develop a novel and efficient algorithm based on sequential Monte Carlo (SMC). We compare the SMC approach with Latin hypercube sampling (LHS), a method commonly adopted in the literature for obtaining the POM, in terms of efficiency and output variability in the presence of a drug block through an in-depth investigation via the Beeler–Reuter cardiac electrophysiological model. We show improved efficiency for SMC that produces similar responses to LHS when making out-of-sample predictions in the presence of a simulated drug block. Finally, we show the performance of our approach on a complex atrial electrophysiological model, namely the Courtemanche–Ramirez–Nattel model.
Visualizing the Geography of Genetic Variants
Authors: Marcus Joseph H. , Novembre John
Published: August 2016

One of the key characteristics of any genetic variant is its geographic distribution. The geographic distribution can shed light on where an allele first arose, what populations it has spread to, and in turn on how migration, genetic drift, and natural selection have acted. The distribution of a genetic variant can also be of great utility for medical/clinical geneticists. Collectively the geographic distribution of many genetic variants can reveal population structure. As a result, visual inspection of geographic maps for genetic variants is common practice in genetic studies. Here we develop an interactive visualization tool for rapidly displaying the geographic distribution of genetic variants. Through a REST API and dynamic front-end theGeography of Genetic Variants (GGV)browser provides maps of allele frequencies in populations distributed across the globe.
Environmental DNA enables detection of terrestrial mammals from forest pond water
Authors: Ushio Masayuki , Fukuda Hisato , Inoue Toshiki , Makoto Kobayashi , Kishida Osamu , Sato Keiichi , Murata Koichi , Nikaido Masato , Sado Tetsuya , Sato Yukuto , Takeshita Masamichi , Iwasaki Wataru , Yamanaka Hiroki , Kondoh Michio , Miya Masaki
Published: August 2016

Terrestrial animals must have frequent contact with water to maintain their lives, implying that environmental DNA (eDNA) originating from terrestrial animals should be detectable from places containing water in terrestrial ecosystems. Aiming to detect the presence of terrestrial mammals using forest water samples, we applied a set of universal PCR primers (MiMammal, a modified version of fish universal primers) for metabarcoding mammalian eDNA. After verifying the primers’ usefulness in silico and using water samples from zoo cages of animals with known species compositions, we collected five 500-ml water samples from ponds in two cool-temperate forests in Hokkaido, northern Japan. Using eDNA extracted from the water samples, we constructed amplicon libraries using MiMammal primers for Illumina MiSeq sequencing. MiMammal metabarcoding yielded a total of 75,214 reads, which we then subjected to data pre-processing and taxonomic assignment. We thereby detected species of mammals common to the sampling areas, including deer (Cervus nippon), mouse (Mus musculus), vole (Myodes rufocanus), raccoon (Procyon lotor), rat (Rattus norvegicus) and shrew (Sorex unguiculatus). Previous applications of the eDNA metabarcoding approach have mostly been limited to aquatic/semiaquatic systems, but the results presented here show that the approach is also promising even in forest mammal biodiversity surveys.
Intranasal oxytocin enhances intrinsic corticostriatal functional connectivity in women
Authors: Bethlehem Richard A. I. , Lombardo Michael V. , Lai Meng-Chuan , Auyeung Bonnie , Crockford Sarah K. , Deakin Julia , Soubramanian Sentil , Sule Akeem , Kundu Prantik , Voon Valerie , Baron-Cohen Simon
Published: August 2016

Oxytocin may influence various human behaviors and the connectivity across subcortical and cortical networks. Previous oxytocin studies are male-biased and often constrained by task-based inferences. Here we investigate the impact of oxytocin on resting state connectivity between subcortical and cortical networks in women. We collected resting state fMRI data on 26 typically-developing women 40 minutes following intranasal oxytocin administration using a double-blind placebo-controlled crossover design. Independent components analysis (ICA) was applied to examine connectivity between networks. An independent analysis of oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene expression in human subcortical and cortical areas was carried out to determine plausibility of direct oxytocin effects onOXTR. In women,OXTRwas highly expressed in striatal and other subcortical regions, but showed modest expression in cortical areas. Oxytocin increased connectivity between corticostriatal circuitry typically involved in reward, emotion, social-communication, language, and pain processing. This effect was 1.39 standard deviations above the null effect of no difference between oxytocin and placebo. This oxytocin-related effect on corticostriatal connectivity covaried with autistic traits, such that oxytocin-related increase in connectivity was stronger in individuals with higher autistic traits. In sum, oxytocin strengthened corticostriatal connectivity in women, particularly with cortical networks that are involved in social-communicative, motivational, and affective processes. This effect may be important for future work on neurological and psychiatric conditions (e.g., autism), particularly through highlighting how oxytocin may operate differently for subsets of individuals.
HIERARCHY OF E-LEARNING DELIVERY MECHANISM: A PARADIGM SHIFT
Authors: Dimri Anil K. , Chaturvedi Amit
Published: August 2016

In the present paper an attempt has been made to develop an e- learning programme delivery mechanism model for distance mode of learning so that effective student support services could be ensured by making online learning possible in the diversified socio-economic and geo-physical settings of a country like India. The paper also seeks to analyze the growth of the distance and open learning in India with special reference to Indira Gandhi National Open University. Attempt has also been made to analyze the delivery mechanism of IGNOU for providing better students support services. The paper finally concludes that networking of the system through information and communication technology will not only reduce the operational cost to a great extent, particularly in the long ran, but also bring revolution in the field of higher education in a developing country like India by ensuring effective and efficient online learning to those having poor access to electronic mode of learning.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN OPEN AND DISTANCE LEARNING SYSTEM: ANALYTICAL EVALUATION OF TRAINING PROGRAMMES
Authors: Dimri Anil K. , Misra Anil Kumar
Published: August 2016

Present article seeks to analyze the impact of training programmes on the professional development skills of the academics working primarily at the Regional Centers of Indira Gandhi National Open University spread across the country. Article also seeks to analyze how the issues pertaining to the academics which include educational, administration, student support, supervision and maintenance of study centers. monitoring, staff development, survey and research activities, development of self instructional material, admission, examination, teleconferencing, interactive radio counseling, gyanvani, tele-learning center activities, maintenance of database, financial and administrative matters were taken up while imparting training. Interrelationship among the variables was also analyzed in order to asses the impact one variable on the other variables by using regression technique, i.e while dealing with the issues pertaining to educational administration the impact of training on monitoring was also assessed.
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO NETAJI SUBHAS OPEN UNIVERSITY
Authors: Ghosh Anirban
Published: August 2016

There is no alternative to lifelong learning to maintain the sustainability and protect our future generation. The Open and Distance Learning (ODL) gives the opportunity of lifelong learning. Netaji Subhas Open University (NSOU) is one of 14 State Open Universities in India and it was established by the West Bengal State government in the year 1997. The challenge was to provide education at every door step within the state with equity and quality. Within a very short span of 11 years, the University has become a people's University with more than 140,000 learners on its roll. The University is playing a pivotal role in capacity building and it gives a person a chance to earn the degree which (s)he could not get it earlier due to socio-economic reasons. The success of the University has come through effective implementation of support services. The strength of an open and distance learning institute depends on its services which are provided to the learners. On one hand, the learners of this system are adult; on the other hand, they belong to disadvantaged groups like dropouts, scheduled cast, scheduled tribe, women, minorities, house wives etc. Again, they are separated from teacher as well as from the Institutes under open and distance learning system, so they desperately need support before, during and even after their study. The term ‘Student Support Services’ is not associated with the conventional system of education. We commonly use this term in ODL system of education. The Student Support Services in ODL not only include these nonacademic services but also the academic services as provided by the Institute and faculty. NSOU uses both Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and non-ICT related Student Support Services. In this paper I have highlighted how NSOU has achieved the status of Mega University with the help of its Student Support Services.