bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of genetic structuring at the northern limits of the Australian smelt (Retropinna semoni) cryptic species complex
Authors: Islam Md Rakeb-Ul , Schmidt Daniel J. , Crook David A. , Hughes Jane M.
Published: May 2018

Freshwater fishes often exhibit high genetic population structure due to the prevalence of dispersal barriers (e.g., waterfalls) whereas population structure in diadromous fishes tends to be weaker and driven by natal homing behaviour and/or isolation by distance. The Australian smelt (Retropinnidae:Retropinna semoni) is a native fish with a broad distribution spanning inland and coastal drainages of south-eastern Australia. Previous studies have demonstrated variability in population genetic structure and movement behaviour (potamodromy, facultative diadromy, estuarine residence) across the southern part of its geographic range. Some of this variability may be explained by the existence of multiple cryptic species. Here, we examined genetic structure of populations towards the northern extent of the species’ distribution, using ten microsatellite loci and sequences of the mitochondrial cytbgene. We tested the hypothesis that genetic connectivity among rivers should be low due to a lack of dispersal via the marine environment, but high within rivers due to dispersal. We investigated populations corresponding with two putative cryptic species, SEQ-North (SEQ-N), and SEQ-South (SEQ-S) lineages occurring in south east Queensland drainages. These two groups formed monophyletic clades in the mtDNA gene tree and among river phylogeographic structure was also evident within each clade. In agreement with our hypothesis, highly significant overallFSTvalues suggested that both groups exhibit very low dispersal among rivers (SEQ-SFST= 0.13; SEQ-NFST= 0.27). Microsatellite data indicated that connectivity among sites within rivers was also limited, suggesting dispersal may not homogenise populations at the within-river scale. Northern groups in the Australian smelt cryptic species complex exhibit comparatively higher among-river population structure and smaller geographic ranges than southern groups. These properties make northern Australian smelt populations potentially susceptible to future conservation threats, and we define eight genetically distinct management units along south east Queensland to guide future conservation management. The present findings at least can assist managers to plan for effective conservation and management of different fish species along coastal drainages of south east Queensland, Australia.
A broader active site in Pyrococcus horikoshii CoA disulfide reductase accommodates larger substrates and reveals evidence of subunit asymmetry
Authors: Sea Kevin , Lee Jerry , To Daniel , Chen Berniece , Sazinsky Matthew H. , Crane Edward J.
Published: May 2018

Within the family of pyridine nucleotide disulfide oxidoreductase (PNDOR), enzymes are a group of single‐cysteine containing FAD‐dependent reductases that utilize a tightly bound coenzyme A to assist in the NAD(P)H‐dependent reduction of di‐, per‐, and polysulfide substrates in bacteria and archaea. For many of these homodimeric enzymes, it has proved difficult to determine the substrate specificity and metabolic function based on sequence and genome analysis alone. Coenzyme A‐disulfide reductase (CoADR) isolated from Pyrococcus horikoshii (phCoADR) reduces Co‐A per‐ and polysulfides, but, unlike other highly homologous members of this group, is a poor CoA disulfide reductase. The phCoADR structure has a narrower access channel for CoA substrates, which suggested that this restriction might be responsible for the enzyme's poor activity toward the bulky CoA disulfide substrate. To test this hypothesis, the substrate channel was widened by making four mutations along the channel wall (Y65A, Y66A, P67G, and H367G). The structure of the quadruple mutant shows a widened substrate channel, which is supported by a fourfold increase in kcat for the NAD(P)H‐dependent reduction of CoA disulfide and enhanced activity toward the substrate at lower temperatures. Anaerobic titrations of the enzyme with NADH revealed a half‐site reactivity not observed with the wild‐type enzyme in which one subunit of the enzyme could be fully reduced to an EH4 state, while the other remained in an EH2 or EH2·NADH state. These results suggest that for these closely related enzymes, substrate channel morphology is an important determinant of substrate specificity, and homology modeling will be the preferred technique for predicting function among PNDORs.
Digital Diplomacy
Authors: Hayden Craig
Published: May 2018

Digital diplomacy represents a concurrent set of issues at the intersection of technology and diplomacy: how the practice and context of diplomacy is influenced by the availability of digital platforms for communication, information gathering, and analysis. The term asserts a pivot point in the evolution of diplomacy as much as the broader context of international relations, and the potential ascendance of public diplomacy as a significant instrument of statecraft. Digital diplomacy also provides an important conceptual frame through which to describe how diplomats and foreign ministries have employed a variety of digital platforms, such as popular social media applications, to engage publics, encourage collaboration, and foster transparency. Despite the steady growth of such efforts, much of the traditional obligations of diplomacy remain for practitioners and nation‐states.
Observation of High Capacitance from Molecular Gd@C82 in Aqueous Electrolyte Derived from Energy‐Level Matching with Proton
Authors: Wang Xin , Hu Ziqi , Yuan Xiaotao , Dong Chenlong , Dong Wujie , Riaz Muhammad Sohail , Lin Tianquan , Shi Zujin , Huang Fuqiang
Published: May 2018

Fullerenes with very high specific surface area have never been used as an electrode material in advanced energy storage, which is due to their incompatible electronic structures hindering any large Faradaic capacitance. Here, molecular endohedral metallofullerene of Gd@C82 for the first time as a novel active material is observed a capacitance of 186 F g−1 and good rate capability in aqueous electrolyte, exceeding other fullerenes (<10 F g−1) and commercial activated carbon (YP‐50 ≈155 F g−1). This less symmetric C82 filled by gadolinium achieves apposite energy levels absorbing protons to greatly improve its capacitance, which is confirmed by the results of first‐principals calculations. Gibbs free energy analyses further demonstrate that the Gd@C82 is spontaneous to accept electrons coupled with protons. This research would open up a path for fullerenes as a new‐type electrode material.
Organellar phylogenomics inform systematics in the green algal family Hydrodictyaceae (Chlorophyceae) and provide clues to the complex evolutionary history of plastid genomes in the green algal tree of life
Authors: McManus Hilary A. , Fučíková Karolina , Lewis Paul O. , Lewis Louise A. , Karol Kenneth G.
Published: May 2018

Premise of the Study

Phylogenomic analyses across the green algae are resolving relationships at the class, order, and family levels and highlighting dynamic patterns of evolution in organellar genomes. Here we present a within‐family phylogenomic study to resolve genera and species relationships in the family Hydrodictyaceae (Chlorophyceae), for which poor resolution in previous phylogenetic studies, along with divergent morphological traits, have precluded taxonomic revisions.

Methods

Complete plastome sequences and mitochondrial protein‐coding gene sequences were acquired from representatives of the Hydrodictyaceae using next‐generation sequencing methods. Plastomes were characterized, and gene order and content were compared with plastomes spanning the Sphaeropleales. Single‐gene and concatenated‐gene phylogenetic analyses of plastid and mitochondrial genes were performed.

Key Results

The Hydrodictyaceae contain the largest sphaeroplealean plastomes thus far fully sequenced. Conservation of plastome gene order within Hydrodictyaceae is striking compared with more dynamic patterns revealed across Sphaeropleales. Phylogenetic analyses resolve Hydrodictyon sister to a monophyletic Pediastrum, though the morphologically distinct P. angulosum and P. duplex continue to be polyphyletic. Analyses of plastid data supported the neochloridacean genus Chlorotetraëdron as sister to Hydrodictyaceae, while conflicting signal was found in the mitochondrial data.

Conclusions

A phylogenomic approach resolved within‐family relationships not obtainable with previous phylogenetic analyses. Denser taxon sampling across Sphaeropleales is necessary to capture patterns in plastome evolution, and further taxa and studies are needed to fully resolve the sister lineage to Hydrodictyaceae and polyphyly of Pediastrum angulosum and P. duplex.
Preparation and Physicochemical Attributes of Refined Liver Oil from Deep‐Sea Dogfish
Authors: Chakraborty Kajal , Joseph Dexy
Published: May 2018

The liver oil of deep‐sea dogfish, Centrophorus squamosus, was extracted by different physical methods and refined by sequential processes of degumming, neutralization, decolorization, and deodorization. Phosphoric acid effectively eliminated the mucilaginous substances in crude oil to result in triglycerides with permissible contents of peroxides, unesterified fatty acids, volatile compounds, thiobarbituric acid reactive species, and total oxidation values. A synergistic combination of activated charcoal and Fuller's earth could effectively bleach the crude deep‐sea dogfish liver oil (CDLO) for greater clarity and acceptable color characteristics. The adverse odors in the crude oil were eliminated by acetic acid treatment and vacuum deodorization. This study shows that the multistep refining process of CDLO significantly enhances the composition of C20–22 n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, with the removal of the components responsible for the undesirable physicochemical characteristics.
Conflicting measures and values: How humanities scholars in Australia and Sweden use and react to bibliometric indicators
Authors: Hammarfelt Björn , Haddow Gaby
Published: May 2018

While bibliometric indicators, such as the journal impact factor, have long played an important role in many STEM disciplines it has been repeatedly shown that established bibliometric methods have limited use in the humanities. Using a questionnaire on metrics use and publication practices in Australia and Sweden, we tested the assumption that indicators play a minor role among humanities scholars. Our findings show that our respondents use indicators to a considerable degree, with a range of indicators and rankings being employed. The scholars use metrics as part of institutional policy, in CVs and applications, as well as for general promotion of their work. Notable in our results is that a much larger share of researchers (62%) in Australia used metrics compared to Sweden (14%). Scholar's attitudes regarding bibliometrics are mixed; many are critical of these measures, while at the same time feeling pressured to use them. One main tension described by our respondents is between intradisciplinary criteria of quality and formalized indicators, and negotiating these “orders of worth” is a challenging balancing act, especially for younger researchers.
Delayed posthypoxic leukoencephalopathy following alcohol and psychotropic drug overdose: a case report
Authors: Ueno Kanji , Takahashi Tetsuya , Higashima Masato , Okazaki Ryoko , Takano Seiichiro , Wada Yuji
Published: May 2018

Key Clinical Message

Delayed posthypoxic leukoencephalopathy (DPHL), a demyelinating syndrome, can easily be misdiagnosed as a psychiatric condition. Our case study shows that magnetic resonance imaging is highly useful for an early diagnosis of DPHL and that vascular endothelial growth factor might be a supplementary biomarker for the early detection of DPHL.
Oxidation‐Induced C—H Functionalization: A Formal Way for C—H Activation
Authors: Liu Yichang , Yi Hong , Lei Aiwen
Published: May 2018

Cross‐coupling reactions have developed widely and provided a powerful means to synthesize a variety of compounds in each chemical field. The compounds which have C—H bonds are widespread in fossil fuels, chemical raw materials, biologically active molecules, etc. Using these readily‐ available substances as substrates is high atom‐ and step‐economy for cross‐coupling reactions. Over the past decades, our research group focused on finding and developing new strategies for C—H functionalization. Compared with classical C—H activation methods, for example, C—H bonds are deprotonated by strong base or converted into C—M bonds, oxidation‐induced C—H functionalization would be another pathway for C—H bond activation. This perspective shows a brief introduction of our recent works in this oxidation‐induced C—H functionalization. We categorized this approach of these C—H bond activations by the key intermediates, radical cations, radicals and cations.
Targeting body dissatisfaction among women with overweight or obesity: A proof‐of‐concept pilot study
Authors: Olson KayLoni L. , Thaxton Tyler T. , Emery Charles F.
Published: May 2018

Objective

This proof‐of‐concept study was designed to replicate the effects of the empirically‐supported Body Project intervention on body dissatisfaction when combined with behavioral recommendations for weight loss among women with overweight or obesity.

Method

Women with overweight or obesity who reported body dissatisfaction and a desire to lose weight were randomized to one of two 4‐week treatment conditions. Individuals assigned to the standard group (n = 15) were directed to track diet and activity level daily. Body project (n = 17) participants tracked daily diet and activity, in addition to attending four weekly, group‐based body project intervention sessions. Body mass index, body dissatisfaction, body appreciation, and internalization of thin ideal and weight stigma were evaluated before and after the treatment period.

Results

Feasibility data suggest the Body Project can be implemented with this novel sample. Preliminary estimates suggest greater effects on body appreciation in the Body Project group than in the standard group (ES = 0.43), but no group effects for other body image variables.

Conclusions

With minor modifications, the Body Project was successfully implemented among women with overweight or obesity. The effect on body appreciation is encouraging and worthy of further investigation. Modification to the intervention may be necessary to enhance treatment effects on other body image variables.
Effect of partial or total supplementation of soybean meal with fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) seed meal in the diet of hybrid Catfish (Heteroclarias) fingerlings
Authors: Omosowone Olamiposi Olajumoke , Ogunrinde Abibat Motunrayo
Published: May 2018

The study evaluated the effect of partial or total supplementation of soybean meal with full‐fat Telifaria occidentalis seed meal on performance and whole body composition of Heteroclarias fingerlings. Five iso‐nitrogenous (40% crude protein) basal diets were prepared using locally available feedstuffs, while T. occidentalis seed meal was added at varying inclusion levels (0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%). One hundred and fifty apparently healthy Heteroclarias fingerlings (4.26 ± 0.26 g) were stocked in glass tanks (50 L capacity) at 10 fish / tank with each treatment in triplicate. Fish were fed at 5% body weight in two equal portions daily for 56 days and culture water changed on alternate days. The result of this study showed a significant variation (p < .05) in crude protein and lipid contents of whole body composition of Heteroclarias fingerlings‐fed T. occidentalis seed meal supplemented diets compared with the control. Increasing levels of fat and protein deposition were also observed in the muscle of Heteroclarias with increase in T. occidentalis. Also, some growth evaluation indices (weight gain, specific growth rate, feed intake, and protein efficiency ratio) of Heteroclarias fingerlings decreased with increase in inclusion levels of T. occidentalis seed meal. Dissolved oxygen in culture units also decreased with increase in T. occidentalis. From this study, chemical body composition of Heteroclarias fed T. occidentalis seed meal supplemented diets increased with increase in inclusion levels, while the reverse was the case in weight gain. There was a decline in the quantity of dissolved oxygen with increase in quantity of T. occidentalis seed meal. Other water parameters such as pH, temperature, nitrate, and ammonia were within the limits for culturing tropical fish species.
THE HOLIDAY EFFECT IN STOCK RETURNS: EVIDENCE FROM THE OTC MARKET
Authors: Liano Kartono , Marchand Patrick H. , Huang Gow‐Cheng
Published: May 2018

The patterns of daily returns in over‐the‐counter (OTC) stocks are examined to determine if a holiday effect exists in the OTC market. For the sample period of 1973–1989, test results provide evidence of unusually high returns on pre‐holiday trading days and unusually low returns on post‐holiday trading days in the OTC market. Additional analyses indicate that other documented calendar anomalies do not cause the pre‐holiday effect, but the day‐of‐the‐week effect apparently drives the post‐holiday effect.
VALUATION EFFECTS OF OPEN MARKET STOCK REPURCHASES FOR FINANCIALLY WEAK FIRMS
Authors: Tsetsekos George P.
Published: May 2018

We test the proposition that announcements of open market stock repurchases improve the flow of positive information regarding the firm's prospects, particularly for financially weak firms. For financially strong firms with already good prospects for cash flows, the role of stock repurchases is less important. We provide evidence for an inverse relationship between financial risk, measured by bond rating, and the magnitude of stock repurchase‐induced abnormal returns. Results also suggest that the value of information implied by announcements of open market repurchases about increases in cash flows and leverage, is more important for financially weak firms than for financially strong firms.
PORTFOLIO PERFORMANCE AND THE INTERACTION BETWEEN SYSTEMATIC RISK, FIRM SIZE AND PRICE‐EARNINGS RATIO: THE CANADIAN EVIDENCE
Authors: Elfakhani Said
Published: May 2018

While some American studies relate portfolio performance to P/E ratios, others reject such a hypothesis or find evidence of a confounded P/E‐size effect. This prevents conclusive inferences. Canadian markets are structurally different from American ones; thus American evidence may not apply to Canadian stocks. This study examines how interaction between P/E ratio, beta and firm size affects the portfolio performance of Canadian stocks. The results show a relative support for the firm size effect, even after proper adjustment for risk and alternate change in control variables. This evidence is not uniform across different quarters of the year but not restricted to year‐end effect. The findings also demonstrate a positive correlation among the three variables. However, one cannot generalize conclusions since the analysis may not capture all other pertinent factors.
A tricalcium phosphate/polyether ether ketone anchor bionic fixation device for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: Safety and efficacy in a beagle model
Authors: Mao Genwen , Qin Zili , Li Zheng , Li Xiang , Qiu Yusheng , Bian Weiguo
Published: May 2018

The goal of this study was to develop a bionic fixation device based on the use of a tricalcium phosphate/polyether ether ketone anchor and harvesting of the ulnar carpal flexor muscle tendon for application as a ligament graft in a beagle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction model, with the goal of accelerating the ligament graft‐to‐bone tunnel healing and providing a robust stability through exploration of this new kind of autologous ligament graft. The safety and efficacy of this fixation device were explored 3 and 6 months after surgery in a beagle ACL reconstruction model using biomechanical tests and comprehensive histological observation. The data were compared using a two‐tailed Student's t test and a paired t test. A p value <0.05 was defined as statistically significant. All the models were successfully established. This fixation device possessed the excellent mechanical properties for ACL reconstruction. A comprehensive histological observation revealed that a cartilage layer was visible in the transition zone between the tendon and bone interface at both 3 and 6 months postoperation. The trabecular of the new bone was observed six months after surgery and was found to be similar to a direct connection. This fixation technique provided not only a robust primary mechanical fixation but also a bionic fixation for long‐term knee joint stability by accelerating the healing of the tendon to the bone tunnel, showing a high potential for use in clinical practice. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 554–563, 2019.
Relationships of Changes in Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Substrate Drugs in Drug–Drug Interactions on Metabolizing Enzymes and Transporters
Authors: Yamazaki Shinji
Published: May 2018

A general objective of drug–drug interaction (DDI) studies is to determine whether potential interactions of new molecular entities with concomitantly administered other drugs exist and, if DDIs occur, whether dosage adjustments are required. A typical end point for DDI evaluations is the ratio of area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) of substrate drugs (AUCR), whereas the ratios of maximal plasma concentration (Cmax) and terminal half‐life (t1/2) are also important to understand DDI mechanisms (CmaxR and t1/2R, respectively). Because changes in substrate AUC by precipitant drugs ultimately result from alterations of Cmax and t1/2, AUCR can be considered a hybrid parameter of CmaxR and t1/2R, for example, AUCR ≈ CmaxR  ×  t1/2R. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the relationships between AUCR, CmaxR, and t1/2R in physiologically based pharmacokinetic model–predicted and clinically observed DDI results. First, the model‐predicted results showed the excellent proportional relationship between AUCR and (CmaxR × t1/2R) in DDI results of virtual substrates having a wide range of oral bioavailability with coadministration of ketoconazole, ritonavir, and rifampin. Second, the
reasonable proportional relationships were also observed in the clinically observed DDI results of midazolam and statins (atorvastatin, cerivastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, pitavastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin, and simvastatin) with various inhibitors and inducers. Finally, these results suggest that utilization of the proportional relationship between AUCR and (CmaxR × t1/2R) can provide an additional framework to further interpret DDI results reasonably and clearly. Furthermore, the proportional relationship can be purposely used to assess study design and pharmacokinetic analyses in DDI studies.
Evidence of Strict Stereospecificity in the Structure of sn‐1,2‐Diacyl‐3‐Acetyl‐Glycerols from Euonymus maximowiczianus Seeds Using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Sidorov Roman A. , Shashkov Alexander S. , Solovyev Pavel A. , Gorshkova Elena N. , Tsydendambaev Vladimir D.
Published: May 2018

Asymmetric, optically active sn‐1,2‐diacyl‐3‐acetyl‐glycerols (AcDAG) have been known to scientists for several decades. However, to date, the problem of their structure has not been definitely resolved, which has led to a vast diversity of terms used for their designation in the literature. Using two‐dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance, we have investigated AcDAG from the mature seeds of Euonymus maximowiczianus, from which we have been able to both identify a correlation of the methyl group in acetic acid residue with protons at the carbon atom at sn‐3 position in the glycerol residue of the AcDAG molecule and, for the first time, demonstrate that this correlation is observed exclusively with one carbon atom at the α‐position, but not with two as would have been expected in case of a racemic mixture. Moreover, results of our analysis of AcDAG isolated from the seeds of E. maximowiczianus directly confirm that diacylglycerol‐3‐acetyl‐transferase is responsible for their biosynthesis, which reveals a strict specificity not only to acetyl‐CoA as one of the substrates but also to the sn‐3‐position of the glycerol residue in sn‐1,2‐diacylglycerol during their biosynthesis.
Efficacy and Hematological Responses of Walleyes to Chemosedation and Electrosedation
Authors: Trushenski Jesse T , Johnson J Alan , Bowker James D
Published: May 2018

We conducted a series of experiments to assess Walleyes Sander vitreus that were sedated with tricaine methanesulfonate (150 mg/L), eugenol (60 mg/L), benzocaine (150 mg/L), carbon dioxide (CO2; 360 mg/L), or pulsed-DC electrosedation (100 or 150 V; 5 or 10 s). Fish were sedated individually or in groups and were allowed to recover in order to determine induction and recovery times. Blood samples were collected from group-sedated fish over a 6-h postsedation period to assess physiological indicators of stress. Electrosedation yielded the fastest mean ± SE induction (0.1 ± 0.0 min), and CO2 yielded the slowest (2.1 ± 0.5 min). Recovery times varied, but most fish recovered within 1–3 min and all fish recovered within approximately 5 min postsedation. Voltage and exposure time had little effect on induction, but fish that were exposed to 150 V of pulsed DC for 10 s took approximately twice as long to recover as other electrosedated fish. Plasma cortisol levels increased substantially from 0.5 to 1.0 h postsedation regardless of the sedative used, and plasma glucose levels increased substantially throughout the 6-h postsedation sampling period. Results show that juvenile Walleyes can be effectively sedated with any of the sedation options, but sedative exposure does induce an acute stress response.
Non‐specific interstitial pneumonia associated with clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis showing “crazy paving” appearance on thin‐section lung CT
Authors: Aono Yuya , Eifuku Tatsuru , Uto Tomohiro , Sato Jun , Imokawa Shiro , Suda Takafumi
Published: May 2018

The “crazy paving” appearance consists of ground‐glass opacity superimposed on a network of linear opacities on thin‐section computed tomography (CT) images of the lung. This finding has been described in a variety of diseases but is extremely rare in patients with non‐specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP). We describe a 45‐year‐old woman with biopsy‐proven NSIP associated with clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis that showed a “crazy paving” appearance on thin‐section CT of the lung. Clinicians should include NSIP in the differential diagnosis in patients presenting with “crazy paving” appearance on thin‐section chest CT.
Specifying neural crest cells: From chromatin to morphogens and factors in between
Authors: Rogers Crystal D. , Nie Shuyi
Published: May 2018

Neural crest (NC) cells are a stem‐like multipotent population of progenitor cells that are present in vertebrate embryos, traveling to various regions in the developing organism. Known as the “fourth germ layer,” these cells originate in the ectoderm between the neural plate (NP), which will become the brain and spinal cord, and nonneural tissues that will become the skin and the sensory organs. NC cells can differentiate into more than 30 different derivatives in response to the appropriate signals including, but not limited to, craniofacial bone and cartilage, sensory nerves and ganglia, pigment cells, and connective tissue. The molecular and cellular mechanisms that control the induction and specification of NC cells include epigenetic control, multiple interactive and redundant transcriptional pathways, secreted signaling molecules, and adhesion molecules. NC cells are important not only because they transform into a wide variety of tissue types, but also because their ability to detach from their epithelial neighbors and migrate throughout developing embryos utilizes mechanisms similar to those used by metastatic cancer cells. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms required for the induction and specification of NC cells in various vertebrate species, focusing on the roles of early morphogenesis, cell adhesion, signaling from adjacent tissues, and the massive transcriptional network that controls the formation of these amazing cells.

This article is categorized under:

Nervous System Development > Vertebrates: General Principles

Gene Expression and Transcriptional Hierarchies > Regulatory Mechanisms

Gene Expression and Transcriptional Hierarchies > Gene Networks and Genomics

Signaling Pathways > Cell Fate Signaling
Unexplained variability among spatial replicates in transient elasticity: implications for evolutionary ecology and management of invasive species
Authors: Horvitz Carol C. , Denslow Julie S. , Johnson Tracy , Gaoue Orou , Uowolo Amanda
Published: May 2018

Understanding actual and potential selection on traits of invasive species requires an assessment of the sources of variation in demographic rates. While some of this variation is assignable to environmental, biotic or historical factors, unexplained demographic variation also may play an important role. Even when sites and populations are chosen as replicates, the residual variation in demographic rates can lead to unexplained divergence of asymptotic and transient population dynamics. This kind of divergence could be important for understanding long‐ and short‐ term differences among populations of invasive species, but little is known about it. We investigated the demography of a small invasive tree Psidium cattleianum Sabine in the rainforest of Hawaiʻi at four sites chosen for their ecological similarity. Specifically, we parameterized and analyzed integral projection models (IPM) to investigate projected variability among replicate populations in: (1) total population size and annual per capita population growth rate during the transient and asymptotic periods; (2) population structure initially and asymptotically; (3) three key parameters that characterize transient dynamics (the weighted distance of the structure at each time step from the asymptotic structure, the strength of the sub‐dominant relative to the dominant dynamics, and inherent cyclicity in the subdominant); and (4) proportional sensitivity (elasticity) of population growth rates (both asymptotic and transient) to perturbations of various components of the life cycle. We found substantial variability among replicate populations in all these aspects of the dynamics. We discuss potential consequences of variability across ecologically similar sites for management and evolutionary ecology in the exotic range of invasive species.
Comparative Study of Life Quality Between Migrant Children and Local Students in Small and Medium-Sized Cities in China
Authors: Zhang Junhua
Published: May 2018

Every child deserves a fair chance in life. However, migrant children are at higher risk of developing mental health problems. The problem of migrant children who have left their hukou registration place for 6 months or longer with their parents from rural areas to cities in China has become a unique social issue in the social transformation of China. However, even up to this day, little is known about life satisfaction of migrant children in small and medium-sized cities. To investigate the current situation of migrant children’s life satisfaction, several scales including Chinese Adolescent Students’ Life Satisfaction Questionnaire, Social Economic Status Scale, Social Support Rating Scale and big five inventory were used to obtain data on 142 migrant children and 165 local primary school students. Results showed that migrant children’s life satisfaction was significantly lower when compared to local non-migrant students. The study also highlighted that subjective and objective support, utilization of support, conscientiousness and parent’s educational level were predictive factors of life satisfaction. Migrant children’ life satisfaction was not optimistic and social support was significantly influencing factors of migrant children’s life satisfaction, so they need a support system of government, school, community, family to help them through difficulties.
Estimates of Size of Cycle in a Predator-Prey System
Authors: Lundström Niklas L. P. , Söderbacka Gunnar
Published: May 2018

We consider a Rosenzweig–MacArthur predator-prey system which incorporates logistic growth of the prey in the absence of predators and a Holling type II functional response for interaction between predators and preys. We assume that parameters take values in a range which guarantees that all solutions tend to a unique limit cycle and prove estimates for the maximal and minimal predator and prey population densities of this cycle. Our estimates are simple functions of the model parameters and hold for cases when the cycle exhibits small predator and prey abundances and large amplitudes. The proof consists of constructions of several Lyapunov-type functions and derivation of a large number of non-trivial estimates which are of independent interest.
Resilience trajectories to full recovery in first-episode schizophrenia
Authors: Torgalsbøen Anne-Kari , Fu Susie , Czajkowski Nikolai
Published: May 2018

Background:

Resilience is successful adaptation despite adversity. This personality trait has the potential to add new knowledge to how to achieve a successful outcome, but resilience has been understudied in schizophrenia. The objective of the present study is to investigate if there are significant differences in resilience development among fully recovered and non-recovered patients with first episode schizophrenia (FES).

Methods:

In the ongoing Oslo Schizophrenia Recovery Study spanning 10 years, 28 first-episode patients are interviewed and assessed yearly with comprehensive criteria of full recovery, a measure of social and role functioning and resilience, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale. The present study includes data from six follow-ups over four years. Working or studying, having symptoms that are stably mild or absent for two years or more, having contact with friends and/or dating, participating in leisure activities and living independently define full recovery.

Results:

At the four-year follow-up, 55% were sustained full/partly recovered. Ten percent of those fully recovered were no longer in treatment. Choosing the overall best linear mixed model, we found a significantly larger increase in resilience score among the fully recovered than among those not recovered.

Conclusions:

Based on the theoretical rationale that resilience is activated differently in persons who experience adversity, the significant increase in resilience in the fully recovered group indicates that this psychological trait is present to a higher degree in fully recovered. These results highlight resilience as a factor associated with increased recovery in FES adding to the small literature on improvement among these patients and thus have important clinical implications.
Cafeteria diet during the gestation period programs developmental and behavioral courses in the offspring
Authors: Ribeiro Ana Cláudia Alves Freire , Batista Tatiane Helena , Veronesi Vanessa Barbosa , Giusti‐Paiva Alexandre , Vilela Fabiana Cardoso
Published: May 2018

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of exposure to maternal consumption of a hyperenergetic, highly palatable diet, known as the cafeteria diet, during the gestation period on the development and behavior of offspring. For this, we used pregnant female mice that were fed a normal or a cafeteria diet during the gestation period. The evaluation of maternal behavior in lactating dams was performed from the second to the eighth day postpartum (PND 2‐8). Weight gain, feed intake, and energy intake were recorded during the gestation period. In the offspring, reflex parameters and physical development were evaluated during the lactation period and when they reached adolescence. Behavioral performance was evaluated in light‐dark, open‐field, and play behavior tests. In addition, biochemical parameters of the dams and the adolescent offspring were evaluated. The cafeteria diet during gestation altered maternal behavior and the onset of physical and neurodevelopmental landmarks and had an impact on emotional and play behavior in adolescent offspring. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that exposure to maternal consumption of a cafeteria diet during the gestation period can program developmental and behavioral courses in the offspring.
Geochemical characteristics and analysis of crude-oil source in the deep-water area of the Baiyun Sag, South China Sea
Authors: He Dashuang , Hou Dujie , Chen Tao
Published: May 2018

In the Baiyun Sag, the oil relationship with possible source rocks is complicated, and little research on oil sources in the area has been performed. In this paper, geochemical studies of carbon isotopes, biomarkers, paleoenvironmental deposition, and crude oil maturity, carried out with the use of oil samples from the Baiyun Sag, demonstrate that the organic matter in crude oil has an oxidizing depositional environment and primarily lacustrine facies conditions, with a significantly higher plant input. The oil samples used are mature to highly mature. Crude oil in the northern area of the Baiyun Sag is more mature than samples in the eastern part of the sag. Despite limited source rock data, we were able to conclude that the crude oil samples were derived mainly from the Enping Formation; other potential source rocks of the Wenchang and Zhuhai Formations may also have contributed to the reservoirs in different parts of the sag. Furthermore, the source of crude oil in each structure in the Baiyun Sag was analyzed; for example, crude oil in the LH19-5 structure was generated from the organic matter of the Enping Formation, and crude oil in the LW3-1 structure was derived from the mixed organic matter of the Enping, Wenchang, and Zhuhai Formations.

© 2018, V.S. Sobolev IGM, Siberian Branch of the RAS. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Crustal structure and properties of Archean cratons of Gondwanaland: similarity and difference
Authors: Baranov A.A. , Bobrov A.M.
Published: May 2018

This is a synopsis of available data the on crustal structure and properties of thirteen Archean cratons of Gondwanaland (the cratons of Africa, Australia, Antarctica, South America, and the Indian subcontinent). The data include estimates of surface area, rock age and lithology, Moho depth, thickness of lithosphere and sediments, as well as elevations, all summarized in a table. The cratons differ in size from 0.05 × 106 km2 (Napier craton) to 4 × 106 km2 (Congo craton) and span almost the entire Archean period from 3.8 to 2.5 Ga. Sediments are mostly thin, though reach 7 km in the Congo and West African cratons. Elevations above sea level are from 0 to 2 km; some relatively highland cratons (Kaapvaal, Zimbabwe, and Tanzanian) rise to more than 1 km. On the basis of regional seismic data, the Moho map for cratons has been improved. The Moho diagrams for each craton are constructed. The analysis of the available new data shows that the average Moho depth varies from 33 to 44 km: Pilbara (33 km), Grunehogna (35 km), São Francisco (36 km), Yilgarn (37 km), Dharwar (38 km), Tanzanian (39 km), Zimbabwe (39 km), Kaapvaal (40 km), Gawler (40 km), Napier (40 km), West Africa (40 km), Congo (42 km), and Amazon (44 km) cratons. The Moho depth within the cratons is less uniform than it was assumed before: from 28 to 52 km. The new results differ significantly from the earlier inference of a relatively flat Moho geometry beneath Archean cratons. According to the new data, early and middle Archean undeformed crust is characterized by a shallow Moho depth (28–38 km), while late Archean or deformed crust may be as thick as 52 km.
Climatic factors as risks of recent ecological changes in the shallow zone of Lake Baikal
Authors: Potemkina T.G. , Potemkin V.L. , Fedotov A.P.
Published: May 2018

Eutrophication processes have been recorded in many world’s freshwater reservoirs, which are sources of drinking water. More and more investigations show that global warming is the main natural factor that causes eutrophication. In recent years, signs of eutrophication have also been recorded in Lake Baikal containing 20% of the world’s freshwater reserves. Therefore, we performed the first comprehensive analysis of long-term changes in climatic parameters capable to provoke negative changes in the shallow zone. The largest number of anomalies of climatic indices has been recorded in the 21st century. Moreover, the current decade has been the most favorable for the emergence of negative processes in the lake (outbreak of the mass growth of algae and aquatic vegetation, rotting of their remains at the bottom and on the shores of the lake, changes in the structure and zoning of biocoenoses, etc.). The main natural conditions favoring the emergence of negative signs are elevated temperatures of the air and lake shore water, reduced amount of precipitation, reduced inflow of river waters into Baikal and lowering of its water level, low-water season, and weakening of wind currents, water exchange processes, and, as a result, water self-purification. In the period of continuing global warming, it is necessary to study the climate effect on the processes in the shallow zone and to carry out long-term monitoring for elucidation of recent and expected changes in the ecological state of Lake Baikal and for their valid interpretation.
Alzheimer's disease drug development pipeline: 2018
Authors: Cummings Jeffrey , Lee Garam , Ritter Aaron , Zhong Kate
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Treatments for Alzheimer's disease (AD) are needed due to the growing number of individuals with preclinical, prodromal, and dementia forms of AD. Drug development for AD therapies can be examined by inspecting the drug development pipeline as represented on clinicaltrials.gov.

Methods

Clinicaltrials.gov was assessed as of January 30, 2018 to determine AD therapies represented in phase I, phase II, and phase III.

Results

There are 112 agents in the current AD treatment pipeline. There are 26 agents in 35 trials in phase III, 63 agents in 75 trials in phase II, and 23 agents in 25 trials in phase I. A review of the mechanisms of actions of the agents in the pipeline shows that 63% are disease‐modifying therapies, 22% are symptomatic cognitive enhancers, and 12% are symptomatic agents addressing neuropsychiatric and behavioral changes. Trials in phase III are larger and longer than phase II or phase I trials, particularly those involving disease‐modifying agents. Comparison with the 2017 pipeline shows that there are four new agents in phase III, 14 in phase II, and eight in phase I. Inspection of the use of biomarkers as revealed on clinicaltrials.gov shows that amyloid biomarkers are used as entry criterion in 14 phase III disease‐modifying agent trials and 17 disease‐modifying agent trials in phase II. Twenty‐one trials of disease‐modifying agents in phase II did not require biomarker confirmation for AD at trial entry.

Discussion

The AD drug development pipeline is slightly larger in 2018 than in 2017. Trials increasingly include preclinical and prodromal populations. There is an increase in nonamyloid mechanisms of action for drugs in earlier phases of drug development. Biomarkers are increasingly used in AD drug development but are not used uniformly for AD diagnosis confirmation.
What Makes a Good Neighbor? Race, Place, and Norms of Political Participation
Authors: ANOLL ALLISON P.
Published: May 2018

Social norms are thought to motivate behaviors like political participation, but context should influence both the content and activation of these norms. I show that both race and neighborhood context moderate the social value of political participation in the United States. Using original survey data and a survey experiment, I find that Whites, Blacks, and Latinos not only conceptualize participation differently, but also asymmetrically reward those who are politically active, with minority Americans often providing more social incentives for participation than Whites. I combine this survey data with geographic demography from the American Community Survey and find that neighborhood characteristics outpace individual-level indicators in predicting the social value of political participation. The findings suggest that scholars of political behavior should consider race, place, and social norms when seeking to understand participation in an increasingly diverse America.
BOUNDS FOR TRIPLE EXPONENTIAL SUMS WITH MIXED EXPONENTIAL AND LINEAR TERMS
Authors: YAU KAM HUNG
Published: May 2018

We establish bounds for triple exponential sums with mixed exponential and linear terms. The method we use is by Shparlinski [‘Bilinear forms with Kloosterman and Gauss sums’, Preprint, 2016, arXiv:1608.06160] together with a bound for the additive energy from Roche-Newton et al. [‘New sum-product type estimates over finite fields’, Adv. Math.293 (2016), 589–605].
MAHLER MEASURE OF ‘ALMOST’ RECIPROCAL POLYNOMIALS
Authors: SAUNDERS J. C.
Published: May 2018

We give a lower bound of the Mahler measure on a set of polynomials that are ‘almost’ reciprocal. Here ‘almost’ reciprocal means that the outermost coefficients of each polynomial mirror each other in proportion, while this pattern may break down for the innermost coefficients.
Dictatorships and the Worlds of Work in the Southern Cone: Argentina, Brazil and Chile
Authors: Winn Peter
Published: May 2018

Beginning with Brazil in 1964, continuing with Chile in 1973, and concluding with Argentina in 1976, the ABC powers of South America experienced civil-military coups and long-lived dictatorships that put an end to their democratic governments and programs of structural reform. Each coup reflected national circumstances and histories that differed from country to country—in Brazil, the military overthrew João Goulart's left populist government, in Chile, the Pinochet coup put an end to Allende's democratic road to socialism, while in Argentina, the military Junta and their civilian allies ended the left Peronist “revolutionary” project (already under attack from the Peronist right) and replaced it with a rightist “process” of their own.
Turkish Industrial Relations at the Crossroads: Revisiting the History of Industrial Relations in the Early Post World War Two Period
Authors: Özkiziltan Didem , Çelik Aziz
Published: May 2018

The 1961 constitutional reform in Turkey recognized the right to strike and granted other rights and freedoms related to the collective actions of labor. Conventional wisdom holds that Turkish trade unions became independent of the state power with class-based interests only after this reform. Across mainstream literature, this is considered, in historical institutionalist terms, as the first critical juncture in Turkey's industrial relations. This paper provides a critical account of the institutional continuity, development, and change that took place in Turkey's industrial relations starting from its establishment as a republic in 1923 until the end of the 1950s, by considering the socioeconomic and legal-political environment during these years. Considering the historical evidence employed, and under historical institutionalism, it is argued that the first critical juncture in the country's industrial relations occurred in 1947, when the ruling cliques permitted the establishment of trade unions. In this paper, it is purported that the consensus reached by the trade unions on the necessity of the right to strike from the mid-1950s onwards initiated a peaceful class struggle between Turkish labor and the state, which gradually steered the industrial relations toward the second critical juncture following the promulgation of the 1961 constitution.