bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensory prediction errors in the human midbrain signal identity violations independent of perceptual distance
Authors: Suarez Javier A , Howard James D , Schoenbaum Geoffrey , Kahnt Thorsten
Published: April 2019

The firing of dopaminergic midbrain neurons is thought to reflect prediction errors (PE) that depend on the difference between the value of expected and received rewards. However, recent work has demonstrated that unexpected changes in value-neutral outcome features, such as identity, can evoke similar responses. It remains unclear whether the magnitude of these identity PEs scales with the perceptual dissimilarity of expected and received rewards, or whether they are independent of perceptual similarity. We used a Pavlovian transreinforcer reversal task to elicit identity PEs for value-matched food odor rewards, drawn from two perceptual categories (sweet, savory). Replicating previous findings, identity PEs were correlated with fMRI activity in midbrain, OFC, piriform cortex, and amygdala. However, the magnitude of identity PE responses was independent of the perceptual distance between expected and received outcomes, suggesting that identity comparisons underlying sensory PEs may occur in an abstract state space independent of straightforward sensory percepts.
Evaluation of potential molecular interaction between quorum sensing receptor, LuxP and grouper fatty acids: in-silico screening and simulation
Authors: Low Chen-Fei , Shamsir Mohd Shahir , Mohamed-Hussein Zeti-Azura , Baharum Syarul Nataqain
Published: April 2019

Pathologically relevant behaviors ofVibrio, such as the expression of virulence factors, biofilm production, and swarming motility, have been shown to be controlled by quorum sensing. The autoinducer-2 quorum sensing receptor protein LuxP is one of the target proteins for drug development to suppress the virulence ofVibrio. Here, we reported the potential molecular interaction of fatty acids identified in vibriosis-resistant grouper with LuxP. Fatty acid, 4-oxodocosahexaenoic acid (4R8) showed significant binding affinity toward LuxP (−6.0 kcal/mol) based on molecular docking analysis. The dynamic behavior of the protein–ligand complex was illustrated by molecular dynamic simulations. The fluctuation of the protein backbone, the stability of ligand binding, and hydrogen bond interactions were assessed, suggesting 4R8 possesses potential interaction with LuxP, which was supported by the low binding free energy (−29.144 kJ/mol) calculated using the molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann surface area.
Properties of a cryptic lysyl oxidase from haloarchaeonHaloterrigena turkmenica
Authors: Pestov Nikolay B. , Kalinovsky Daniel V. , Larionova Tatyana D. , Zakirova Alia Z. , Modyanov Nikolai N. , Okkelman Irina A. , Korneenko Tatyana V.
Published: April 2019

Background

Lysyl oxidases (LOX) have been extensively studied in mammals, whereas properties and functions of recently found homologues in prokaryotic genomes remain enigmatic.

Methods

LOX open reading frame was cloned fromHaloterrigena turkmenicain anE. coliexpression vector. RecombinantHaloterrigena turkmenicalysyl oxidase (HTU-LOX) proteins were purified using metal affinity chromatography under denaturing conditions followed by refolding. Amine oxidase activity has been measured fluorometrically as hydrogen peroxide release coupled with the oxidation of 10-acetyl-3,7-dihydroxyphenoxazine in the presence of horseradish peroxidase. Rabbit polyclonal antibodies were obtained and used in western blotting.

Results

CulturedH. turkmenicahas no detectable amine oxidase activity. HTU-LOX may be expressed inE. coliwith a high protein yield. The full-length protein gives no catalytic activity. For this reason, we hypothesized that the hydrophobic N-terminal region may interfere with proper folding and its removal may be beneficial. Indeed, truncated His-tagged HTU-LOX lacking the N-terminal hydrophobic signal peptide purified under denaturing conditions can be successfully refolded into an active enzyme, and a larger N-terminal truncation further increases the amine oxidase activity. Refolding is optimal in the presence of Cu2+at pH 6.2 and is not sensitive to salt. HTU-LOX is sensitive to LOX inhibitor 3-aminopropionitrile. HTU-LOX deaminates usual substrates of mammalian LOX such as lysine-containing polypeptides and polymers. The major difference between HTU-LOX and mammalian LOX is a relaxed substrate specificity of the former. HTU-LOX readily oxidizes various primary amines including such compounds as taurine and glycine, benzylamine being a poor substrate. Of note, HTU-LOX is also active towards several aminoglycoside antibiotics and polymyxin. Western blotting indicates that epitopes for the anti-HTU-LOX polyclonal antibodies coincide with a high molecular weight protein inH. turkmenicacells.

Conclusion

H. turkmenicacontains a lysyl oxidase gene that was heterologously expressed yielding an active recombinant enzyme with important biochemical features conserved between all known LOXes, for example, the sensitivity to 3-aminopropionitrile. However, the native function in the host appears to be cryptic.

Significance

This is the first report on some properties of a lysyl oxidase from Archaea and an interesting example of evolution of enzymatic properties after hypothetical horizontal transfers between distant taxa.
The Effects of Pre-Harvest Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) Treatments on Fruit Quality Attributes of Braeburn Apples during Cold Storage
Authors: Ozturk Burhan , Karakaya Orhan , Ozkan Yakup , Yildiz Kenan , Karakaya Medeni , Guler Saadet Koc
Published: April 2019

In this study, effects of pre-harvest naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) treatments on weight loss, color, flesh firmness, soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acidity and starch index of Braeburn apples (Malus x domestica Borkh) were determined at harvest and at 45 days post-harvest intervals throughout cold storage at 0±0.5°C and 90±5% RH.  During cold storage, the lowest weight loss was obtained from NAA-treated fruits. L* and hue angle values of both control and NAA-treated fruits decreased in all analysis periods. While chroma value increased for NAA-treated fruits during cold storage, it firstly increased, and then decreased. The flesh firmness of NAA-treated fruits was higher than control fruits at harvest, whereas it was lower in the last two analysis periods. NAA-treated fruits had lower SSC values than the control fruits. The starch degradation of NAA-treated fruits was faster than the control fruits.
Increased Maize Yields through the Transdisciplinary Process with Site Specific Fertilizer Recommendation in Small Holder Farms in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
Authors: Chebet Arusey , Nekesa Otinga A. , Ng’etich Wilson , Njoroge Ruth , Scholz Roland W. , Julius Koech
Published: April 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of site-specific fertilizer recommendations on maize yield using the transdisciplinary (TD) process. 144 farmers participated in the study for the two seasons. Experiments were laid on the farmers’ fields at four sites (Kapyemit, Kipsomba, Ngenyilel and Ziwa, in Uasin Gishu County) using Randomized Complete Block Design in a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement. Treatments included farmers who participated in the TD process (TD2) and those who did not (TD1) in using the interventions for soil fertility improvement which were farmer own practices (ST1); farmers who applied government recommendations (ST2), and site-specific fertilizer recommendations (ST3) which was based on soil testing results. The Data collected was the dry weights of maize which were measured at the end of the seasons and subjected to Analysis of Variance using Genstat 14th edition. Means separation was done using Fischer’s unprotected Least Significant Difference.. There was a significant effect on maize yields by soil testing and participation in TD process p = 0.01. The mean maize grain yield for season one was 5.43 ton ha-1 while for season two was 5.73 ton ha-1. Control farmers (TD1) maize grain yield of 5.27 ton ha-1, had a significant difference (p = 0.05) from the yield of participating farmers (TD2) who had 5.96 ton ha-1. Maize grain yield was increased by the application of site specific fertilizer recommendations which gave an overall mean of 6.57 ton ha-1 for season one and 6.56 ton ha-1 for season two. Following (ST3) recommendations and participation in the TD process, improved soil nutrient content thus maize yield increased. We recommend soil testing and consequent site-specific fertilizer recommendations for any initiative in managing soil fertility.
Unemployment and its Effect on the Growth of Nigeria Economy
Authors: Elorhor Obele Tolulope
Published: April 2019

Unemployment is known to be a worldwide economic problem which retards economic growth. It is found to be one of the serious impediments to colossal waste of a country’s manpower resources; hence it generates lower output thereby leading to lower income and sluggish economic growth. This empirical study however investigated the effect of unemployment on Economic Growth in Nigeria. This study was carried out in Nigeria between the period of 1986 and 2008. The data were analyzed using the ordinary least square approach. This paper also employed the techniques of   stationary test, co – integration test, and error correction model to estimate the dynamic relationship between dependent and the independent or explanatory variables.   

The result shows R2 to be 0.697 i.e. about 70 percent, Adjusted R2    to be about 53 percent due to data transformation, F. statistic 3.709958, t. Statistics of each explanatory variables shows 2.361284 for UNEMPLR, 0.222837 for EMPL, 3.037337 for GCF, 1.938742 for UNEMPLOY, and 0.799706 for JCV, showing that the explanatory variables are statistically significant in explaining the economic growth in Nigeria. Nevertheless, the result give a coefficient of 11.56651 for Unemployment Rate (UNEMPLR), 0.014065 for Employed Labour (EMPL), 0.852883 for Gross Capital Formation(GCF), 3.982484 for Unemployed Labour (UNEMPLOY), 1.161745 for Job Vacancies (JVAC). The result of the Co-integration test shows the presence of long run relationship between employed labour and growth. This result corroborates the fact that unemployment rate retards Nigeria’s economic growth thus, one percent increase in unemployment rate lead to about 11.56 percent decreases in Gross Domestic Product. It was also found that job vacancies have a negative relationship with growth.

Based on the finding, it is recommended that the Nigerian government has to be involved as major players in the establishment and management of economic and other forms of enterprises in order to promote job employment, and growth. To optimally raise the level of capital formation in Nigeria, government has to maintain a steady supply of energy (power) and other infrastructural supplies needed to raise employment level and boost economic growth. And being a reoccurring economic problem, this however needs further work to proffer solution.
How Group Potency Affects Employee Job Satisfaction in Sugar Manufacturing Firms in Kenya
Authors: Wanyama Kadian Wanyonyi , Sifuma Sharon Wefuma , Koyi Nabiswa Patrick , Indiatsi Isaac Mabale , Ojiambo Josephine N.
Published: April 2019

Sugar Manufacturing firms in Kenya are recently experiencing a decrease in productivity and the future of the sugar firms seems dingy. The purpose of this study was to assess how group potency affects employee job satisfaction in sugar manufacturing firms in Kenya. The study adopted descriptive and correlational survey designs. The simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used. The research instruments were tested through the test re-tests method and reliability analysis which gave a Cronbach alpha value of 0.833. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The following were the study findings: regression analysis conducted on the effect of group potency and employee job satisfaction revealed a positive and significant correlation between these two variables, (r = 0.213, b = 0.1804, t = 2.067, p<0.05)). It was recommended that the Human Resource Department should develop and maintain teamwork through capacity building to realise optimal employee productivity. It is hoped that the results would add knowledge and contribute to theory development critical for academia and policy makers in the sugar sector in particular Kenya.
Model Text for the Indian Bilateral Investment Treaty, 2015: A Re-examination of the Provisions Defining Investment and Expropriation
Authors: Chowdhury Dipayan
Published: April 2019

This article was written in the wake of India's termination of its BITs in 2017 with several nations, including at least 22 EU countries, as a consequence of which new investments in and from concerned nations would no longer be governed by the investment treaties assigned between the Governments. However, India released a joint interpretative statement intending that the then existing treaties with nations that were unconcluded would be aligned with the 2015 Model BIT Text. Therefore, touching on this issue, two specific provisions from the 2015 Text were examined in light of their impact on foreign inbound investments in the Indian subcontinent.
(Dis) Investing Homi Bhabha’s Emancipative Discourse (from) in Post-colonial Project Management: Re-thinking the Amodernism of Imperial/African Political Economy
Authors: Ndi Alfred
Published: April 2019

Drawing from Bruno Latour’s amodernist organization theory, which illuminates the canonization of epistemological boundaries in the field of project management studies, this paper argues that Homi Bhabha’s emancipative project in postcolonial research, has failed to assert itself in this globalizing age of projectification of societies. In its historiographical context incarnated in writings by management scholars, the field of project management orientalized Africa as underdeveloped and in need of occidentalist modernization. This Latourian insight driven by the quest for the ‘purified canon’ portraying the metropole as ‘centre’ of civilization and the colonies/Africa, as the Other, was tragically misjudged by nationalist ideologues fighting for independence, post-independence leaderships in Africa, who met in the Bandung Conference, advocates of a New World Economic Order, pan-Africanists, because their interventions were grounded chiefly in hybridization. But hybdization means the demise of the amodern and since the occident will not stand by to witness this decanonization with an applause, the Third World was already ‘mal parti’ (to cite Denan) because its post-independence leadership needlessly staged the post-colonial project on the path of a hybridization logic of inevitable confrontation rather than in a light of participation and solidarity. Hybridization in post-colonial management studies connotes with the inevitability of ‘confrontation’ at a time when the Third World does not have the means to deal efficiently with it. Hybridization can also mean ‘participation’ and ‘solidarity’ (in the sense of understanding the Other’s viewpoint and embedding it) without radiating the perception of threat and taking no responsibility or showing any competence to deal with the  consequences of that perception.

It concludes that, instead of ‘playing’ the ideological game at the level of the ‘super-structures’, more emphasis should be placed on building greater competency in the Latourian amodernism of development, entrepreneurship, etc. The Third World needs to build more projects by investing in the knowledge industry of amodernism while incorporating its cultural values. The West and the emerging world should not see this as a ‘threat’ to amodernism but as a ‘richness’; but for this to happen, they should actively invest in sustainability of this process by supporting the intelligentsia of knowledge producers and interpreters in the Third World.
The Investigation and Study of the Cross-Culture Social Adaption of Students from ASEAN in Jiangxi Province
Authors: Zhiwei Xiong , Jiayun Zeng
Published: April 2019

The social network of foreign students and its heterogeneity are the important factors that influence the cross-cultural adaptation of international students. In this paper, some colleges and universities in Nanchang ASEAN students studying design as an example, the heterogeneity of the questionnaire of social network, analyzes the social network heterogeneity present situation, then using  two element  Logistic regression analysis to examine various dimensions of heterogeneity affect cross-cultural adaptation. At last, drawing conclusions and recommendations for improvement, improving the cross-cultural adaptability of students.
Targeting inaccuracy caused by mechanical distortion of the Leksell stereotactic frame during fixation
Authors: Renier Cécile , Massager Nicolas
Published: April 2019

Background

The stereotactic frame represents the mainstay of accuracy for targeting in stereotactic procedures. Any distortion of the frame may induce a significant source of error for the stereotactic coordinates.

Objective

To analyze the sources of distortion of the Leksell frame G induced by fixation to the patient's head and to evaluate the clinical impact of frame distortion on the accuracy of targeting in stereotactic procedures.

Methods

We analyzed the torques exerted on the fixation screws after frame placement in a series of patients treated stereotactically by an experienced team. We studied the risk for frame bending in an experimental model of stereotactic frame fixation, with increasing torque of fixation screws in a homogeneous and heterogeneous distribution of torques between the four screws. We assessed the impact of expanding dimensions of bending of the Leksell frame both on surgeries utilizing the stereotactic frame, and on radiosurgical procedures with the Gamma Knife.

Results

Frames were fixed clinically at a range of torques of 0.147–0.522 Nm (mean = 0.348 Nm). The torques did not vary significantly with time. Heterogeneity between the two opposite pairs of screws is often limited, but can reach 96.3%. Distortion of the frame may occur even at minimal levels of torque. Heterogeneity between the two opposite pairs of screws will significantly raise the amount of frame distortion. We found a direct correlation between measures of the frame distortion and extend of the deviation from the stereotactic target in clinical models of stereotactic procedures.

Conclusion

Stereotactic frames were subjected to distortion due to the torque used for frame fixation. The risk of distortion increased with the torque used and the heterogeneity between the torques of the fixation screws. Distortion of the frame was a significant source of inaccuracy of targeting for stereotactic procedures in clinical practice.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Hydroxysulfurization and Alkoxysulfurization of Styrenes in the Absence of Photocatalyst: Synthesis of β‐Hydroxysulfides and β‐Alkoxysulfides
Authors: Ruan Hongjie , Meng Ling‐Guo , Zhu Lingqiong , Wang Lei
Published: April 2019

We developed hydroxysulfurization and alkoxysulfurization of styrenes using a visible‐light synthetic strategy in the absence of photocatalyst and oxidant. This strategy provided the corresponding β‐hydroxysulfides and β‐alkoxysulfides in moderate to good yields with high regioselectivity. The reaction was tolerated by a wide range of functional groups. This is the first example of ArSSAr/CBr4 system has been introduced into organic transformation.

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Iron (III)‐Promoted Synthesis of Substituted 4H‐Chalcogenochromenes and Chemoselective Functionalization
Authors: de Oliveira Isadora M. , Esteves C. Henrique A. , Darbem Mariana P. , Pimenta Daniel C. , Zukerman‐Schpector Julio , Ferreira Antonio G. , Stefani Hélio A. , Manarin Flavia
Published: April 2019

The iron(III)‐promoted synthesis of densely‐substituted 4H‐chalcogenchromene from organochalcogen propargylamines in the presence of diaryl dichalcogenides is reported. Subsequent C2‐functionalization with electrophiles and potassium trifluoroborate salts via Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling reaction are also presented. A plausible mechanism based on HRMS experiments is proposed and discussed.

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Chiral Semiconductor Nanoparticles for Protein Catalysis and Profiling
Authors: Hao Changlong , Gao Rui , Li Yue , Xu Liguang , Sun Maozhong , Xu Chuanlai , Kuang Hua
Published: April 2019

In this study, via a simple one‐step method, chiral copper sulfide quantum dots (d/l‐QDs) were prepared using d‐/l‐penicillamine (d‐/l‐Pen). The anisotropy factor of d/l‐QDs was as high as 0.01. The d/l‐QDs can be used as photocatalysts to cleave proteins. Notably, the l‐QDs displayed the highest catalytic performance under left‐circularly polarized light irradiation. Mechanistic investigations indicate the generation of hydroxyl radicals as the reactive species that cause the cutting of proteins.
Hydrodehalogenation of Aryl Halides through Direct Electrolysis
Authors: Ke Jie , Wang Hongling , Zhou Liejin , Mou Chengli , Zhang Jingjie , Pan Lutai , Chi Yonggui Robin
Published: April 2019

A catalyst‐ and metal‐free electrochemical hydrodehalogenation of aryl halides is disclosed. Our reaction by a flexible protocol is operated in an undivided cell equipped with an inexpensive graphite rod anode and cathode. Trialkylamines nBu3N/Et3N behave as effective reductants and hydrogen atom donors for this electrochemical reductive reaction. Various aryl and heteroaryl bromides worked effectively. The typically less reactive aryl chlorides and fluorides can also be smoothly converted. The utility of our method is demonstrated by detoxification of harmful pesticides and hydrodebromination of a dibrominated biphenyl (analogues of flame‐retardants) in gram scale.
Re‐Catalyzed Annulations of Weakly Coordinating N‐Carbamoyl Indoles/Indolines with Alkynes via C−H/C−N Bond Cleavage
Authors: Yang Yunhui , Wang Congyang
Published: April 2019

Described herein are rhenium‐catalyzed [3+2] annulations of N‐carbamoyl indoles with alkynes via C−H/C−N bond cleavage, which provide rapid access to fused‐ring pyrroloindolone derivatives. For the first time, the weakly coordinating O‐directing group was successfully employed in rhenium‐catalyzed C−H activation reactions, enabled by the unique catalytic trio of Re2(CO)10, Me2Zn and ZnCl2. Mechanistic studies revealed that aminozinc species plays an important role in the reaction. Based on the mechanistic understanding, a more powerful catalytic trio of Re2(CO)10, [MeZnNPh2]2 and Zn(OTf)2 was devised and applied successfully in the [4+2] annulations of indolines and alkynes affording pyrroloquinolinone derivatives.
A competing risk analysis of death patterns in male genitourinary cancer
Authors: Bhattacharjee Atanu , Roy Gaurav , Budukh Atul , Dikshit Rajesh , Patil Vijay M. , Joshi Amit , Noronha Vanita , Prabash Kumar , Roy Papai
Published: April 2019

Background

Early diagnosis and improved therapeutic options have contributed to prolonged survival in male genitourinary cancer. However, these cancer survivors may die due to other causes.

Aims

This work is aimed to explore the death patterns among male genitourinary cancer patients due to other causes. The occurrence of death not related to cancer is defined as competing risk (CR).

Methods and results

Data extracted between 1973 and 2014 for male patients (n = 638 393) diagnosed with genitourinary cancer and registered in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program were included for analysis. A CR analysis was performed to explore the death patterns due to cancer or otherwise. Our study evidenced a huge proportion of patients' death due to associated factors including but not limited to cancer. Interestingly, the computed hazard ratios obtained in cancers of male organ sites such as prepuce, glans penis, penis, and spermatic cord were 1.28 (0.98‐1.67), 1.53 (1.33‐1.77), 1.35 (0.19‐1.53), and 1.57 (1.24‐2.0), respectively. However, the hazard ratios evaluated on factors other than cancer in the same organ sites were 0.95 (0.76‐1.18), 1.14 (0.99‐1.3), 1.09 (0.97‐1.22), and 1.12 (0.86‐1.46), respectively.

Conclusion

This study shows that among the male genitourinary cancer patients, the significant proportion of deaths occurs due to reasons unrelated to cancer. It can be concluded that the magnitude of death due to only genitourinary cancer is minimal and is not as high as documented in the earlier literature.
Contribution of Discharge Excited Atomic N, N2*, and N2+to a Plasma/Liquid Interfacial Reaction as Suggested by Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Sakakura Tatsuya , Murakami Naoya , Takatsuji Yoshiyuki , Morimoto Masayuki , Haruyama Tetsuya
Published: April 2019

Electric‐discharge nitrogen comprises three main types of excited nitrogen species‐atomic nitrogen (Natom), excited nitrogen molecules (N2*), and nitrogen ions (N2+) – which have different lifetimes and reactivities. In particular, the interfacial reaction locus between the discharged nitrogen and the water phase produces nitrogen compounds such as ammonia and nitrate ions (denoted as N‐compounds generically); this is referred to as the plasma/liquid interfacial (P/L) reaction. The Natomamount was analyzed quantitatively to clarify the contribution of Natomto the P/L reaction. We focused on the quantitative relationship between Natomand the produced N‐compounds, and found that both N2* and N2+, which are active species other than Natom, contributed to P/L reaction. The production of N‐compounds from N2* and N2+was enhanced upon UV irradiation of the water phase, but the production of N‐compounds from Natomdid not increase by UV irradiation. These results revealed that the P/L reactions starting from Natomand those starting from N2*and N2+follow different mechanisms.
Theoretical analysis of planar and non‐planar electron ‐ acoustic shock waves in electron‐positron‐ion plasma
Authors: Bansal Sona , Aggarwal Munish , Gill Tarsem S.
Published: April 2019

The propagation properties of planar and non‐planar electron acoustic shock waves composed of stationary ions, cold electrons, and q‐non‐extensive hot electrons and positrons are studied in unmagnetized electron‐positron‐ion plasma. In this model, the Korteweg‐de Vries Burgers equation is obtained in the planar and non‐planar coordinates. We have investigated the combined action of the dissipation, non‐extensivity, density ratio of hot to cold electrons, concentration of positrons, and temperature difference of cold electrons, hot electrons, and positrons. It was found that the amplitude of shock wave in e‐p‐i plasma increases when the positron concentration and temperature increase. The same effect is observed in the case of kinematic viscosity η. Furthermore, it is noticed that spherical wave moves faster in comparison to the shock waves in cylindrical geometry. This difference arises due to the presence of the geometry term m/2τ. It should be noted that the contribution of the geometry factor comes through the continuity equation. Results of our work may be helpful to illustrate the different properties of shock wave features in different astrophysical and space environments like supernova, polar regions, and in the vicinity of black holes.
Genetic structure, phylogeography, and demography of Anadara tuberculosa (Bivalvia) from East Pacific as revealed by mtDNA: Implications to conservation
Authors: Diringer Benoit , Pretell Krizia , Avellan Ricardo , Chanta Cesar , Cedeño Virna , Gentile Gabriele
Published: April 2019

Wild populations of the pustulose ark, Anadara tuberculosa (Bivalvia), an emblematic species of the East Pacific mangrove ecosystem declined in South American countries (Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru) mainly due to overharvesting and habitat loss or degradation. Understanding the genetic aspects of geographic variations and population structure of A. tuberculosa, currently unknown, appears as a priority to fishery authorities in order to elaborate integrated and collaborative conservation policies for fishery management, aquaculture, and stock enhancement programs. We used mtDNA sequence data to investigate haplotype diversity, genetic structure, and demography of A. tuberculosa. Results indicate genetic homogeneity of populations distributed north and south of the equator, respectively. However, statistically significant differentiation emerged between northern and southern populations with pairwise фST values ranging between 0.036 and 0.092. The oceanic current system acting in the area (Panama Current and Humboldt Current) might play a role in limiting the larval dispersal of the species, still poorly understood. Demography reconstruction supported recent population expansion, possibly started after last glacial maximum. Our results would suggest separate and independent management of populations north and south of the equator.
Rainfall seasonality predicts the germination behavior of a tropical dry‐forest vine
Authors: Martins Adriana A. , Opedal Øystein H. , Armbruster William Scott , Pélabon Christophe
Published: April 2019

Seed dormancy is considered to be an adaptive strategy in seasonal and/or unpredictable environments because it prevents germination during climatically favorable periods that are too short for seedling establishment. Tropical dry forests are seasonal environments where seed dormancy may play an important role in plant resilience and resistance to changing precipitation patterns. We studied the germination behavior of seeds from six populations of the Neotropical vine Dalechampia scandens (Euphorbiaceae) originating from environments of contrasting rainfall seasonality. Seeds produced by second greenhouse‐generation plants were measured and exposed to a favorable wet environment at different time intervals after capsule dehiscence and seed dispersal. We recorded the success and the timing of germination. All populations produced at least some dormant seeds, but seeds of populations originating from more seasonal environments required longer periods of after‐ripening before germinating. Within populations, larger seeds tended to require longer after‐ripening periods than did smaller seeds. These results indicate among‐population genetic differences in germination behavior and suggest that these populations are adapted to local environmental conditions. They also suggest that seed size may influence germination timing within populations. Ongoing changes in seasonality patterns in tropical dry forests may impose strong selection on these traits.
Dynamic interpersonal neural synchronization underlying pain‐induced cooperation in females
Authors: Wang Chenbo , Zhang Tingyu , Shan Zhoukuidong , Liu Jieqiong , Yuan Di , Li Xianchun
Published: April 2019

Individuals in pain are motivated to be cooperative in social interaction. Yet, there has been little research on how pain dynamically affects cooperation at a neural level. The present study investigated the cooperative behavior under acute physical pain by asking dyads to complete three blocks of button‐press cooperative task, while neural activities were recorded simultaneously on each subject by the fNIRS‐based hyperscanning. Results showed that individuals in pain improved their cooperation rate across task blocks. Accordingly, increased interpersonal neural synchronization (INS) was found at the left prefrontal cortex in second block, whereas increased INS was found at the right prefrontal cortex and the right parietal cortex in third block compared to the first block. Moreover, the change of INS in right parietal cortex was positively correlated with subjective pain rating in the pain treatment group. In addition, dynamic interpersonal neural networks were identified in painful condition with increasing frontoparietal networks across time. By uncovering dissociative neural processes involved in how pain affects cooperation in social interaction, the present work provides the first interbrain evidence to highlight the sociality of pain on social interaction in perspective of motivational aspect of pain.
Evaluation of a Multifaceted Intervention to Reduce Health Disparities in Hepatitis C Screening: A Pre‐Post Analysis
Authors: Jain Mamta K. , Rich Nicole E. , Ahn Chul , Turner Barbara J. , Sanders Joanne M. , Adamson Brian , Quirk Lisa , Perryman Patrice , Santini Noel O. , Singal Amit G.
Published: April 2019

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing in persons born from 1945 to 1965 has had limited adoption despite guidelines, particularly among racial/ethnic minorities and socioeconomically disadvantaged patients, who have a higher prevalence of disease burden. We examined the effectiveness of a multifaceted intervention to improve HCV screening in a large safety‐net health system. We performed a multifaceted intervention that included provider and patient education, an electronic medical record–enabled best practice alert, and increased HCV treatment capacity. We characterized HCV screening completion before and after the intervention. To identify correlates of HCV screening, we performed logistic regression for the preintervention and postintervention groups and used a generalized linear mixed model for patients observed in both preintervention and postintervention time frames. Before the intervention, 10.1% of 48,755 eligible baby boomer patients were screened. After the intervention, 34.6% of the 34,093 eligible baby boomers were screened (P < 0.0001). Prior to the intervention, HCV screening was lower among older baby boomers and providers with large patient panels and higher in high‐risk subgroups including those with signs of liver disease (e.g., elevated transaminases, thrombocytopenia), human immunodeficiency virus–positive patients, and homeless patients. Postintervention, we observed increased screening uptake in older baby boomers, providers with larger patient panel size, and patients with more than one prior primary care appointment. Conclusion: Our multifaceted intervention significantly increased HCV screening, particularly among older patients, those engaged in primary care, and providers with large patient panels.
Injectable Schiff base polysaccharide hydrogels for intraocular drug loading and release
Authors: Yang Chao , Gao Lilong , Liu Xiyan , Yang Ting , Yin Guangming , Chen Jianyu , Guo Haiyong , Yu Bing , Cong Hailin
Published: April 2019

A novel voriconazole (VCZ)‐loaded injectable hydrogel was in situ synthetized via a Schiff base reaction between polyaldehyde dextran (PAD) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCTS) for intraocular drug loading and release. Water‐insoluble VCZ, which is an effective agent in clinic treating fungal endophthalmitis, was loaded through the inclusion into the β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) cavity based on host‐guest interaction on the linear poly β‐CD chain, which was in situ twined in the cross‐linked hydrogel structure. The gelation time, degradation, and drug release process were investigated by studying three kinds of hydrogels with different volume ratio of PAD to CMCTS resolving in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution (3:7, 6:7, 9:7), respectively. The property of VCZ‐loaded injectable hydrogel should be adjusted through changing the cross‐linked density of the hydrogel, the molecular weight or concentration of the linear poly β‐CD to meet the treating requirement, and a multistage drug controlled‐release mechanism was proposed. In conclusion, the VCZ‐loaded in situ injectable hydrogel should be offered as a promising strategy for intraocular drug delivery in vitreous cavity for the treatment of fungal endophthalmitis. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 1909–1916, 2019.
The mutation m.13513G>A impairs cardiac function, favoring a neuroectoderm commitment, in a mutant‐load dependent way
Authors: Galera‐Monge Teresa , Zurita‐Díaz Francisco , Garesse Rafael , Gallardo María Esther
Published: April 2019

Mitochondrial disorders (MDs) arise as a result of a respiratory chain dysfunction. While some MDs can affect a single organ, many involve several organs, the brain being the most affected, followed by heart and/or muscle. Many of these diseases are associated with heteroplasmic mutations in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The proportion of mutated mtDNA must exceed a critical threshold to produce disease. Therefore, understanding how embryonic development determines the heteroplasmy level in each tissue could explain the organ susceptibility and the clinical heterogeneity observed in these patients. In this report, the dynamics of heteroplasmy and the influence in cardiac commitment of the mutational load of the m.13513G>A mutation has been analyzed. This mutation has been reported as a frequent cause of Leigh syndrome (LS) and is commonly associated with cardiac problems. In this report, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSc) technology has been used to delve into the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac disease in LS. When mutation m.13513G>A is above a threshold, iPSc‐derived cardiomyocytes (iPSc‐CMs) could not be obtained due to an inefficient epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. Surprisingly, these cells are redirected toward neuroectodermal lineages that would give rise to the brain. However, when mutation is below that threshold, dysfunctional CM are generated in a mutant‐load dependent way. We suggest that distribution of the m.13513G>A mutation during cardiac differentiation is not at random. We propose a possible explanation of why neuropathology is a frequent feature of MD, but cardiac involvement is not always present.
The immune functions of PCSK9: Local and systemic perspectives
Authors: Liu Xing , Suo Rong , Chan Calista Zhuo Yi , Liu Tong , Tse Gary , Li GuangPing
Published: April 2019

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) binds to low‐density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) to trigger endocytosis and lysosome degradation in hepatocytes, regulating intracellular and plasma cholesterol levels. The discovery of PCSK9 has provided a new target for the management of hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular risk reduction. There is emerging evidence that shows that PCSK9 may influence the activity of various cell types through either LDLR‐dependent or LDLR‐independent mechanisms. Changes in the circulating PCSK9 levels have been observed during infection and proinflammatory conditions. Furthermore, PCSK9 as a secreted protein has both local and systemic effects on cellular function. In this review, we summarize the roles of PCSK9 in inflammation.
Challenges to hemoglobin A1c as a therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ikeda Masayuki , Shimazawa Rumiko
Published: April 2019

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is widely accepted as the most reliable measure of long‐term glycemia. However, there is disagreement among professional medical societies on a proper glycemic target for long‐term benefits in type 2 diabetes (T2D). The use of some glucose‐lowering drugs was associated with heart failure despite substantial lowering of HbA1c. The failure of intensive glycemic control to reduce cardiovascular risk in some trials again brought into question the usefulness of HbA1c as a therapeutic target in T2D. In large cardiovascular outcome trials, some newer glucose‐lowering drugs were associated with higher risks of heart failure or amputation despite comparable glycemic control between the test and placebo groups. Here, we provide evidence that variation in hemoglobin glycation between individuals is responsible for these inconsistencies. We suggest that further research be conducted in this area and that the findings be applied to clinical trials and practice.
Microaggressions and Sexual Risk Behaviors in Black College Women: A Moderated Mediation Analysis
Authors: Marks Laura Reid , Çiftçi Ayşe
Published: April 2019

The study examined the association between microaggressions and sexual risk behaviors, the mediating role of anxiety, and the moderation of this mediation by bicultural self‐efficacy. One hundred twenty‐six Black college women (mean age = 20.63) completed a survey. A moderated mediation analysis showed that anxiety partially mediated the relationship between microaggressions and sexual risk behaviors and that bicultural self‐efficacy did not significantly moderate the indirect relationship. Findings indicate the importance of microaggressions in psychological and physical health.

El estudio examinó la asociación entre microagresiones y comportamientos sexuales de riesgo, el papel mediador de la ansiedad y la moderación de esta mediación la autoeficacia bicultural. Ciento veintiséis mujeres negras universitarias (media de edad = 20.63) completaron una encuesta. Un análisis de mediación moderada mostró que la ansiedad medió parcialmente la relación entre microagresiones y comportamientos sexuales de riesgo, y que la autoeficacia bicultural no moderó la relación indirecta de forma significativa. Los hallazgos indican la importancia de las microagresiones en la salud física y psicológica.
The Mental Health Status of Law Students: Implications for College Counselors
Authors: Flynn Andrea M. , Li Yan , Sánchez Bernadette
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this study was to describe law students' psychological symptoms, assess the role of law school stress in students' symptoms, and suggest ways college counselors can help this population. More than half of the 316 participants displayed symptoms of depression and psychological distress, and nearly half showed symptoms of anxiety. Law school stressors significantly predicted students' symptoms. Workload, peers, and low instrumental support most impacted students, thus providing specific directions and implications for college counselors.
Machine Learning assisted design of tailor‐made nanocellulose films: A combination of experimental and computational studies
Authors: Özkan Merve , Karakoç Alp , Borghei Maryam , Wiklund Jenny , Rojas Orlando J. , Paltakari Jouni
Published: April 2019

Nowadays, modern nanomaterial research is complemented by machine learning methods to reduce experimental costs and process time. With this motivation, here, we implemented artificial neural network (ANN), random forest (RF), and multiple linear regression (MLR) methods to predict the mechanical properties of three‐component nanocomposite films consisting of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) crosslinked 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl (TEMPO) oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCNFs) and either ammonium zirconium carbonate (AZC) or glyoxal (Gx) using the mechanical properties of mono‐component TOCNF films and two‐component nanocomposites containing PVA, AZC, or Gx‐crosslinked TOCNF as the input of prediction system. Prediction methods were evaluated with performance indicators and experimental data. Overall, MLR performed with least accuracy, whereas ANN prediction displayed the lowest error followed closely by RF. Additionally, the physically or/and chemically crosslinked hybrid films with optimized amount of crosslinkers resulted in structures with a strength to rupture that was significantly higher than that of the pure nanocellulose films (increases of up to ~90% in tensile strength and ~70% in Young's modulus). POLYM. COMPOS., 40:4013–4022, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Statistical inference for data‐adaptive doubly robust estimators with survival outcomes
Authors: Díaz Iván
Published: April 2019

The consistency of doubly robust estimators relies on the consistent estimation of at least one of two nuisance regression parameters. In moderate‐to‐large dimensions, the use of flexible data‐adaptive regression estimators may aid in achieving this consistency. However, n1/2‐consistency of doubly robust estimators is not guaranteed if one of the nuisance estimators is inconsistent. In this paper, we present a doubly robust estimator for survival analysis with the novel property that it converges to a Gaussian variable at an n1/2‐rate for a large class of data‐adaptive estimators of the nuisance parameters, under the only assumption that at least one of them is consistently estimated at an n1/4‐rate. This result is achieved through the adaptation of recent ideas in semiparametric inference, which amount to (i) Gaussianizing (ie, making asymptotically linear) a drift term that arises in the asymptotic analysis of the doubly robust estimator and (ii) using cross‐fitting to avoid entropy conditions on the nuisance estimators. We present the formula of the asymptotic variance of the estimator, which allows for the computation of doubly robust confidence intervals and p values. We illustrate the finite‐sample properties of the estimator in simulation studies and demonstrate its use in a phase III clinical trial for estimating the effect of a novel therapy for the treatment of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)–positive breast cancer.
Phylogenetic relationships among species of Barleria (Acanthaceae, Lamiales): Molecular data reveal complex patterns of morphological evolution and support a revised classification
Authors: Darbyshire Iain , Fisher Amanda E. , Kiel Carrie A. , McDade Lucinda A.
Published: April 2019

Barleria is a genus of ~300 species of herbs and shrubs in Africa and Asia, with highest diversity in tropical East Africa and southern Africa. The genus is part of Barlerieae (Acanthaceae), a lineage that is distinguished from other Acanthaceae by quincuncial corolla aestivation. Unequivocal synapomorphies have yet to be identified for Barleria. However, among Barlerieae, species of Barleria can be recognized by the combination of 4‐partite calyces with the anterior and posterior lobes usually larger than the two lateral lobes, pollen with a coarsely reticulate (honeycomb) exine and the corolla limb variously subactinomorphic to strongly zygomorphic but never markedly bilabiate with a hooded upper lip. All Barleria that we have observed also have filaments that twist through 180° and cross just distal to the synstapetal zone. Barleria species have previously been classified into two subgenera and seven sections based on differences in leaf axil spine systems; configuration of the corolla, androecium and stigma; and morphology of the capsule and seed. We tested the subgeneric classification of Barleria by sampling 53 Barleria species and 9 outgroup species for three plastid intergenic spacers (trnS‐G, ndhF‐rpl32‐trnL(UAG)) and the nuclear region nrITS. We found a monophyletic Barleria and support for the two currently recognized subgenera; four of seven currently recognized sections are monophyletic but one of these four, sect. Fissimura, is nested within other sections. Species of sect. Fissimura unexpectedly resolved in subg. Barleria with strong support, although previous classifications placed the section in subg. Prionitis. We propose recognizing two subgenera (i.e., Barleria, Prionitis), the latter comprising three sections (i.e., Prionitis, Somalia, Stellatohirta). Barleria encompasses remarkable morphological diversity; we used an ultrametric tree to examine the evolution of nine morphological traits used to define infrageneric taxa in previous classifications. All characters evolved homoplasiously, but a few states (e.g., woody capsule septa) are supported as synapomorphies, and combinations of characters can be used to delimit subgenera. Members of subg. Barleria have 4‐seeded capsules that lack a prominent beak, with a transition to 2‐seeded capsules in the clade that corresponds to sect. Fissimura. In contrast, members of subg. Prionitis have 2‐seeded capsules (reversed to 4‐seeded in most members of one clade of sect. Somalia) that generally have a prominent beak. Additionally, we surveyed pollen morphology for 15 species sampled from across the classification. Pollen is consistently tricolporate with a coarse honeycomb exine. We provide an infrageneric classification and key to infrageneric taxa of Barleria.