bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immigration Policies and the Choice between Documented and Undocumented Migration
Authors: Djajić Slobodan , Vinogradova Alexandra
Published: November 2017

What determines whether a temporary migrant chooses to go abroad as a documented worker or as an illegal alien? We address the question from a theoretical perspective by focusing on how immigration policies, aimed at both documented and undocumented foreign workers, influence the choice between the two modes of migration. Calibrating our model to the specific case of temporary emigration from Thailand, we provide estimates of the relative policy effectiveness. The deportation rate facing undocumented aliens is shown to be the most potent instrument, while some of the measures directed at documented contract workers are found to be more effective in influencing the choice of emigration mode than border controls and employer sanctions aimed at illegal immigrants.
When to Teach for Belief: A Tempered Defense of the Epistemic Criterion
Authors: Tillson John
Published: November 2017

Michael Hand has defended the “epistemic criterion” for “directive and nondirective teaching” in his 2008 Educational Theory article, “What Should We Teach as Controversial? A Defense of the Epistemic Criterion,” as well as subsequent pieces. Here, John Tillson defends use of the epistemic criterion in the case of what he calls “momentous propositions,” but he rejects two of Hand's key arguments in support of the criterion. This rethinking comes in light of important contributions to the debate made by Bryan Warnick and D. Spencer Smith and by Maughn Rollins Gregory, also published in this journal. Tillson begins the article with an elucidation of the directive/nondirective distinction, and then discusses some limitations of defining the distinction in terms of intention. Next, he draws attention to the problems with the “soft‐directive teaching” method that Warnick and Smith advocate. Finally, Tillson provides an additional argument in favor of the epistemic criterion, an argument also grounded in work by Hand, which places emphasis on imparting knowledge alongside cultivating rationality among our educational aims.
Increasing canopy photosynthesis in rice can be achieved without a large increase in water use—A model based on free‐air CO2 enrichment
Authors: Ikawa Hiroki , Chen Charles P. , Sikma Martin , Yoshimoto Mayumi , Sakai Hidemitsu , Tokida Takeshi , Usui Yasuhiro , Nakamura Hirofumi , Ono Keisuke , Maruyama Atsushi , Watanabe Tsutomu , Kuwagata Tsuneo , Hasegawa Toshihiro
Published: November 2017

Achieving higher canopy photosynthesis rates is one of the keys to increasing future crop production; however, this typically requires additional water inputs because of increased water loss through the stomata. Lowland rice canopies presently consume a large amount of water, and any further increase in water usage may significantly impact local water resources. This situation is further complicated by changing the environmental conditions such as rising atmospheric CO2 concentration ([CO2]). Here, we modeled and compared evapotranspiration of fully developed rice canopies of a high‐yielding rice cultivar (Oryza sativa L. cv. Takanari) with a common cultivar (cv. Koshihikari) under ambient and elevated [CO2] (A‐CO2 and E‐CO2, respectively) via leaf ecophysiological parameters derived from a free‐air CO2 enrichment (FACE) experiment. Takanari had 4%–5% higher evapotranspiration than Koshihikari under both A‐CO2 and E‐CO2, and E‐CO2 decreased evapotranspiration of both varieties by 4%–6%. Therefore, if Takanari was cultivated under future [CO2] conditions, the cost for water could be maintained at the same level as for cultivating Koshihikari at current [CO2] with an increase in canopy photosynthesis by 36%. Sensitivity analyses determined that stomatal conductance was a significant physiological factor responsible for the greater canopy photosynthesis in Takanari over Koshihikari. Takanari had 30%–40% higher stomatal conductance than Koshihikari; however, the presence of high aerodynamic resistance in the natural field and lower canopy temperature of Takanari than Koshihikari resulted in the small difference in evapotranspiration. Despite the small difference in evapotranspiration between varieties, the model simulations showed that Takanari clearly decreased canopy and air temperatures within the planetary boundary layer compared to Koshihikari. Our results indicate that lowland rice varieties characterized by high‐stomatal conductance can play a key role in enhancing productivity and moderating heat‐induced damage to grain quality in the coming decades, without significantly increasing crop water use.
The general factor of personality and job performance: Revisiting previous meta‐analyses
Authors: Pelt Dirk H. M. , van der Linden Dimitri , Dunkel Curtis S. , Born Marise Ph.
Published: November 2017

The relationship between the General Factor of Personality (GFP) and several work‐related outcomes such as job performance and organizational citizenship behavior was examined using meta‐analytic data. Confirmatory factor analyses showed sizeable relationships between the GFP and various performance indicators (
 = .34), larger than for any of the Big Five dimensions. Controlling for social desirability did not change the relationship between the GFP and job performance. Moreover, regression analyses showed that the GFP accounted for a larger part of the explained variance in the outcome measures than the unique variances of the Big Five. The results add to the evidence for the GFP as a social effectiveness factor and highlight the validity of the GFP in organizational contexts.
Current trends and pitfalls in endoscopic treatment of urolithiasis
Authors: Inoue Takaaki , Okada Shinsuke , Hamamoto Shuzo , Yoshida Takashi , Matsuda Tadashi
Published: November 2017

Current development of endoscopic technology, lithotripters, and stone‐retrieval devices has expanded the indications for retrograde and antegrade endoscopic therapy in the management of urolithiasis. This technology has also resulted in minimally invasive therapy. As surgeons’ experience of endourological procedures with the newer instruments has become integrated, the surgical technique and indications for urolithiasis have also changed in the past few years. The present review provides an overview of endourological procedures for upper urinary tract stones and the key points related to surgical techniques.
Body size shapes inter‐specific migratory behaviour: evidence from individual tracks of long‐distance migratory shorebirds
Authors: Zhao Meijuan , Christie Maureen , Coleman Jonathan , Hassell Chris , Gosbell Ken , Lisovski Simeon , Minton Clive , Klaassen Marcel
Published: November 2017

Migration is a common phenomenon across many animal taxa. Understanding how migration scales with body size across species is fundamental in the development of migration theory and in making size‐related predictions. Although aerodynamic theory and ecophysiological scaling laws have assisted greatly in generating such predictions, their verifications have been limited by a lack of empirical data across a range of body sizes. The recent development of ultra‐light tracking devices and its rapid application to migration now allows us to put theory to the test. We used tracking data of seven closely related migratory sandpiper species (family Scolopacidae) along the East Asian‐Australasian Flyway to compare their migratory behaviour when migrating towards the breeding grounds as a function of size (50–750 g). We found a marked decline in migration speed (migration distance divided by total migration duration, including time at stopover sites and in flight) with size. Departure date from the non‐breeding (i.e. wintering) ground and arrival date at the breeding ground also scaled negatively with size. Total migration duration, migration distance, total staging duration (the number of days staying at stopover sites plus days preparing, i.e. fuelling, prior to initial migration) and step length (distance covered within one migratory leg) were not significantly related with size. Correction for phylogeny showed consistent results for all variables. Besides improving our fundamental understanding of inter‐specific variation in migration behaviours, the finding of a clear scaling with size in migration speed and migration timing highlight differential size related capabilities and constraints of migrants. Migratory birds, including sandpipers, are declining on a global scale and particularly along the East Asian‐Australasian Flyway. This notion of size‐dependency in migratory traits may have a bearing on their vulnerability to specific environmental disturbances along their flyways.
Hepatitis C Virus Clearance in Older Adults
Authors: Ippolito Antonio Massimo , Iacobellis Angelo , Milella Michele , Conti Fabio , Messina Vincenzo , Valvano Maria Rosa , Niro Grazia Anna , Morisco Filomena , Barone Michele , Termite Antonio Patrizio , Brancaccio Giuseppina , Andriulli Angelo
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To determine whether older adults with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) achieve a sustained viral response (SVR) after treatment with direct‐acting antiviral therapy.

Participants

Individuals aged 80 and older with chronic HCV infection (N = 253; n = 213 with cirrhosis, n = 40 with advanced fibrosis).

Measurements

We investigated the efficacy, safety, and global clinical effect of treatment with different combinations of direct antiviral agents (DAAs). Participants with cirrhosis were staged according to Child‐Pugh‐Turcotte class, Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score, and the D'Amico staging system. The type and number of comorbidities at baseline and hepatic and nonhepatic events during follow‐up were registered.

Results

Ninety‐five percent of participants with cirrhosis and 95% of those with advanced fibrosis attained SVR. The rate was independent of sex, HCV genotype, and treatment schedule. During a mean follow‐up of 14 ± 4 months (range 5–23 months), 34 events occurred in 27 participants: 10 hepatocellular carcinomas, 12 hepatic decompensations, 9 nonhepatic events, 3 deaths. Multivariate analysis of risk factors for experiencing adverse events during follow up showed that participants in D'Amico Stages 4 and 5, with a baseline serum albumin level of 3.5 mg/dL or less, and 3 or more comorbidities were the most at risk.

Conclusion

In a real‐world setting, DAAs are safe and effective in older adults with HCV‐related advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis. Individuals with preserved albumin synthesis and fewer than 3 comorbidities at baseline have the most to gain from long‐term DAA therapy.
On yoderite: Using calculated phase equilibria to investigate its rarity in the geological record of whiteschists
Authors: Alessio Brandon L. , Kelsey David E.
Published: November 2017

A new activity–composition model is presented for green (Mn3+‐absent) yoderite for use in the latest internally consistent thermodynamic data set used by THERMOCALC, for calculations primarily in MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–O system, where O is a proxy for Fe2O3. P–T grids calculated with our model in the MASH and MASHO system feature invariant points and univariant reaction bundles that are consistent with existing experimental results. Using this new model, we have explored the stability of yoderite in whiteschists, a rare type of high‐pressure rock that conforms closely to the MASHO system. Using a series of calculated models in which composition varies, it is shown that yoderite stability is a function of bulk‐rock SiO2, MgO and Al2O3, where the most important component for stabilizing yoderite is a function of pressure and temperature. The rarity of yoderite in naturally occurring whiteschists is largely related to these compositional factors, with most whiteschists having rock compositions that are too SiO2‐rich and Al2O3‐poor to allow yoderite formation. However, in addition to compositional factors, the calculated P–T stability field of yoderite occurs over thermal gradients that are generally too high to occur in modern‐style subduction zones. As nearly all known whiteschist occurrences are Phanerozoic in age, the near‐complete absence of yoderite in late Neoproterozoic–Phanerozoic whiteschists may be at least partially due to modern subduction systems failing to produce the hotter thermal gradients needed to stabilize yoderite. The provision of this new a–x model for green yoderite allows for more rigorous P–T–X investigations of all whiteschists.
The Role of Body, Mind, and Environment in Preterm Birth: Mind the Gap
Authors: Yamamoto Shelby , Premji Shahirose
Published: November 2017

Preterm birth continues to be a problem affecting low‐, middle‐, and high‐income countries, with rates increasing in some areas despite ongoing efforts to reduce the incidence. This emphasizes the need for more effective interventions, particularly if we aim to achieve the broad health targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. The current focus on medically‐oriented interventions such as reducing nonmedically‐indicated induction of labor, cesarean birth, and multiple embryo transfers associated with assisted reproductive technologies, as well as the application of cervical cerclage and use of progesterone therapy, though important, are likely only partial solutions to the complex phenomenon of preterm birth. Preterm birth has multiple etiologies. The biologic mechanisms involved in preterm labor and how it may be triggered are not well understood. There is growing evidence to suggest some of these triggers may also be related to stress and environmental conditions. In this review, we focus on evidence concerning psychosocial (mind) and environmental factors (environment) as well as briefly review the evidence related to maternal and fetal factors (body) associated with the risk of preterm birth, with reference to some of the SDGs. We also assess emerging evidence regarding the interaction of the body, mind, and environment in relation to preterm birth, currently a gap in our knowledge, and how these interactions could impact clinical practice. Findings suggest that multidisciplinary expertise and approaches will be needed to develop effective interventions to address the complex etiologies of preterm birth, as opposed to single‐risk‐factor mitigation. Clinicians and researchers will play key roles in identifying many of these risk factors and shaping interventions that address this complex issue. Addressing the interlinkages between body, mind, and environment through the integration of research and clinical practice is critical to reducing the risk of preterm birth and contributing to the achievement of the SDGs.
Protein components of post‐synaptic density lattice, a backbone structure for type I excitatory synapses
Authors: Suzuki Tatsuo , Kametani Kiyokazu , Guo Weiheng , Li Weidong
Published: November 2017

It is essential to study the molecular architecture of post‐synaptic density (PSD) to understand the molecular mechanism underlying the dynamic nature ofPSD, one of the bases of synaptic plasticity. A well‐known model for the architecture ofPSDof type I excitatory synapses basically comprises of several scaffolding proteins (scaffold protein model). On the contrary, ‘PSDlattice’ observed through electron microscopy has been considered a basic backbone of type IPSDs. However, major constituents of thePSDlattice and the relationship between thePSDlattice and the scaffold protein model, remain unknown. We purified aPSDlattice fraction from the synaptic plasma membrane of rat forebrain. Protein components of thePSDlattice were examined through immuno‐gold negative staining electron microscopy. The results indicated that tubulin, actin, α‐internexin, and Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent kinaseIIare major constituents of thePSDlattice, whereas scaffold proteins such asPSD‐95,SAP102,GKAP, Shank1, and Homer, were rather minor components. A similar structure was also purified from the synaptic plasma membrane of forebrains from 7‐day‐old rats. On the basis of this study, we propose a ‘PSDlattice‐based dynamic nanocolumn’ model forPSDmolecular architecture, in which the scaffold protein model and thePSDlattice model are combined and an idea of dynamic nanocolumnPSDsubdomain is also included. In the model, cytoskeletal proteins, in particular, tubulin, actin, and α‐internexin, may play major roles in the construction of thePSDbackbone and provide linker sites for variousPSDscaffold protein complexes/subdomains.

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Novel topical agent containing superoxide dismutase 100 000 IU and 4% of plant extracts as a mono‐therapy for atopic dermatitis
Authors: Sgouros Dimitrios , Katoulis Alexander , Rigopoulos Dimitrios
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment for the acute phase of atopic dermatitis (AD), whereas topical emollients are mainly used for maintenance of remission. A topical agent that combines emollient and anti‐inflammatory properties would achieve control of all phases of AD, without the need for chronic corticosteroid use.

Aim

To assess the efficacy of a novel topical agent containing superoxide dismutase (SOD) 100 000 IU and 4% of a combination of plant extracts (blackcurrant seed oil, sunflower oil concentrate, balloon vine extract).

Methods

Twenty patients (age range from 8 months to 72 years old) with mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis were assessed. The product was used as mono‐therapy, applied to the affected skin areas twice daily. Patients were evaluated before and after a 30‐day course using the SCORAD and the Visual Analog Scale for assessment of pruritus intensity. Primary endpoint was improvement of AD according to SCORAD and clinical assessment. Secondary endpoint was patient satisfaction and improvement of pruritus.

Results

Mean SCORAD on day 0 was 32.61(range = 16.0‐46.9) and decreased to 10.55 (range = 0‐17.0) on day 30, reflecting a reduction of 67.6%. On day 30, all patients described significant improvement in pruritus and quality of sleep.

Conclusion

The application of the study product cream resulted in significant improvement of AD, as reflected by the objective SCORAD measurement, and the subjective assessment of pruritus and quality of life. This novel anti‐inflammatory emollient product may emerge as a safe and effective therapeutic tool for all phases of AD without the adverse effects of chronic use of corticosteroids.
Effect of Incorporation of Antifungal Agents on the Ultimate Tensile Strength of Temporary Soft Denture Liners
Authors: Neppelenbroek Karin Hermana , Lima Jozely Francisca Mello , Hotta Juliana , Galitesi Lucas Lulo , Almeida Ana Lucia Pompéia Fraga , Urban Vanessa Migliorini
Published: November 2017

Purpose

To investigate the ultimate tensile strength of temporary soft denture liners modified by minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of antifungal agents for Candida albicans biofilm (SC5314) determined in previous microbiological research.

Materials and Methods

Dumbbell‐shaped specimens (n = 7) with a central cross‐sectional area of 6 × 3 × 33 mm were produced by Softone and Trusoft, without (control) or with incorporation of drugs in powder form at MICs for C. albicans biofilm (per g of material powder): nystatin (0.032 g), chlorhexidine diacetate (0.064 g), ketoconazole (0.128 g), miconazole (0.256 g), and itraconazole (0.256 g). After plasticization, specimens were immersed in distilled water at 37°C for 24 hours, 7 or 14 days, and then tested in tension in a universal testing machine at 40 mm/min. Data of tensile strength (MPa) and elongation percentage (%) were submitted to 3‐way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

Results

At the end of 14 days, the tensile strength for both materials was significantly lower in the groups modified by miconazole and itraconazole compared to the other groups (p < 0.0001), which showed no significant difference between them (p > 0.05). After 7 and 14 days in water, miconazole and itraconazole added into both materials resulted in significantly lower elongation percentages compared to the other antifungal agents and control (p < 0.0001), which were similar to each other (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The addition of the nystatin, chlorhexidine, and ketoconazole at MICs for C. albicans biofilm resulted in no harmful effects on the tensile strength and elongation percentage of the temporary soft denture liner materials up to 14 days.
Association between environmental factors including second‐hand smoke and primary lung cancer in dogs
Authors: Zierenberg‐Ripoll A. , Pollard R. E. , Stewart S. L. , Allstadt S. D. , Barrett L. E. , Gillem J. M. , Skorupski K. A.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To estimate prevalence of exposure to environmental tobacco smoke and other environmental toxins in dogs with primary lung tumours and to analyse association between exposure and lung tumour development.

Materials and Methods

In this case–control study, an owner survey was developed to collect data on patient characteristics, general health care and environmental exposures. Dogs diagnosed with primary lung carcinomas formed the Case group. Dogs diagnosed with mast cell tumours served as Control Group 1 and dogs diagnosed with neurologic disease served as Control Group 2. Associations between diagnosis of primary lung tumour and patient and environmental exposure variables were analysed using bivariate and multivariate statistical methods.

Results

A total of 1178 owner surveys were mailed and 470 surveys were returned and included in statistical analysis, including 135 Cases, 169 dogs in Control Group 1 and 166 dogs in Control Group 2. An association between exposure to second‐hand smoke and prevalence of primary lung cancer was not identified in this study.

Clinical Significance

Second‐hand smoke is associated with primary lung cancer in people but a definitive association has not been found in dogs. The results of this study suggest that tobacco smoke exposure may not be associated with primary lung cancer development in dogs but study limitations may have precluded detection of an association.
Phylogeny and a new tribal classification of Opiliaceae (Santalales) based on molecular and morphological evidence
Authors: Le Chi‐Toan , Liu Bing , Barrett Russell L. , Lu Li‐Min , Wen Jun , Chen Zhi‐Duan
Published: November 2017

Opiliaceae are a pantropical family of the Santalales mainly distributed in the Old World with only one genus in the neotropics. Opiliaceae have remained taxonomically unresolved and the generic relationships within the family have been disputed. Here we present molecular phylogenetic analyses of the family and its close relatives using a combined dataset of the nuclear ribosomal (small subunit rDNA and large subunit rDNA) and the chloroplast rbcL, matK, and trnL‐F regions. We also carried out a morphological phylogenetic analysis using 24 characters for all the species of Opiliaceae and three species in Santalaceae s.l. and Strombosiaceae as outgroups. Molecular analyses strongly supported the monophyly of Opiliaceae. Agonandra Miers ex Benth. & Hook. f. is sister to all the other genera of Opiliaceae. The remaining genera form two major clades: the Opilia clade (including Cansjera Juss., Lepionurus Blume, Opilia Roxb., Pentarhopalopilia (Engl.) Hiepko, Rhopalopilia Pierre, and Urobotrya Stapf.), and the other consisting of Anthobolus plus the Champereia clade (including Champereia Griff., Melientha Pierre, and Yunnanopilia C. Y. Wu & D. Z. Li). We propose a new classification of Opiliaceae, recognizing 12 genera and four tribes, with the description of a new tribe, Champereieae Bing Liu, C. T. Le, L. M. Lu & Z. D. Chen.
X exceptionalism in Caenorhabditis speciation
Authors: Cutter Asher D.
Published: November 2017

Speciation genetics research in diverse organisms shows the X‐chromosome to be exceptional in how it contributes to “rules” of speciation. Until recently, however, the nematode phylum has been nearly silent on this issue, despite the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans having touched most other topics in biology. Studies of speciation with Caenorhabditis accelerated with the recent discovery of species pairs showing partial interfertility. The resulting genetic analyses of reproductive isolation in nematodes demonstrate key roles for the X‐chromosome in hybrid male sterility and inviability, opening up new understanding of the genetic causes of Haldane's rule, Darwin's corollary to Haldane's rule, and enabling tests of the large‐X effect hypothesis. Studies to date implicate improper chromatin regulation of the X‐chromosome by small RNA pathways as integral to hybrid male dysfunction. Sexual transitions in reproductive mode to self‐fertilizing hermaphroditism inject distinctive molecular evolutionary features into the speciation process for some species. Caenorhabditis also provides unique opportunities for analysis in a system with XO sex determination that lacks a Y‐chromosome, sex chromosome‐dependent sperm competition differences and mechanisms of gametic isolation, exceptional accessibility to the development process and rapid experimental evolution. As genetic analysis of reproductive isolation matures with investigation of multiple pairs of Caenorhabditis species and new species discovery, nematodes will provide a powerful complement to more established study organisms for deciphering the genetic basis of and rules to speciation.
A sRNA in a reduced mutualistic symbiont genome regulates its own gene expression
Authors: Thairu Margaret W. , Cheng Siyuan , Hansen Allison K.
Published: November 2017

Similar to other nutritional endosymbionts that are obligate for host survival, the mutualistic aphid endosymbiont, Buchnera, has a highly reduced genome with few regulatory elements. Until recently, it was thought that aphid hosts were primarily responsible for regulating their symbiotic relationship. However, we recently revealed that Buchnera displays differential protein regulation, but not mRNA expression. We also identified a number of conserved small RNAs (sRNAs) that are expressed among Buchnera taxa. In this study, we investigate whether differential protein regulation in Buchnera is the result of post‐transcriptional gene regulation via sRNAs. We characterize the sRNA profile of two Buchnera life stages: (i) when Buchnera is transitioning from an extracellular proliferating state in aphid embryos and (ii) when Buchnera is in an intracellular nonproliferating state in aphid bacteriocytes (specialized symbiont cells). Overall, we identified 90 differentially expressed sRNAs, 97% of which were upregulated in aphid embryos. Of these sRNAs, the majority were predicted to be involved in the regulation of various metabolic processes, including arginine biosynthesis. Using a heterologous dual expression vector, we reveal for the first time that a Buchnera antisense sRNA can post‐transcriptionally interact with its cognate Buchnera coding sequence, carB, a gene involved in arginine biosynthesis. These results corroborate our in vivo RNAseq and proteomic data, where the candidate antisense sRNA carB and the protein CarB are significantly upregulated in aphid embryos. Overall, we demonstrate that Buchnera may regulate gene expression independently from its host by utilizing sRNAs.
Fungal community reveals less dispersal limitation and potentially more connected network than that of bacteria in bamboo forest soils
Authors: Xiao Xian , Liang Yuting , Zhou Sai , Zhuang Shunyao , Sun Bo
Published: November 2017

A central aim of this microbial ecology research was to investigate the mechanisms shaping the assembly of soil microbial communities. Despite the importance of bacterial and fungal mediation of carbon cycling in forest ecosystems, knowledge concerning their distribution patterns and underlying mechanisms remains insufficient. Here, soils were sampled from six bamboo forests across the main planting area of Moso bamboo in southern China. The bacterial and fungal diversities were assessed by sequencing 16SrRNAandITSgene amplicons, respectively, with an Illumina MiSeq. Based on structural equation modelling, dispersal limitation had strongest impact on bacterial beta diversity, while the mean annual precipitation had a smaller impact by directly or indirectly mediating the soil organic carbon density. However, only the mean annual temperature and precipitation played direct roles in fungal beta diversity. Moreover, the co‐occurrence network analyses revealed a possibly much higher network connectivity in the fungal network than in the bacteria. With less dispersal limitation, stronger environmental selection and a potentially more connected network, the fungal community had more important roles in the soil carbon metabolisms in bamboo forests. Fungal beta diversity and the clustering coefficient explained approximately 14.4% and 6.1% of the variation in the carbon metabolic profiles among sites, respectively, but that of bacteria only explained approximately 1.7% and 1.8%, respectively. This study explored soil microbial spatial patterns along with the underlying mechanisms of dispersal limitation, selection and connectivity of ecological networks, thus providing novel insights into the study of the distinct functional traits of different microbial taxa.
Biogeography of mutualistic fungi cultivated by leafcutter ants
Authors: Mueller Ulrich G. , Ishak Heather D. , Bruschi Sofia M. , Smith Chad C. , Herman Jacob J. , Solomon Scott E. , Mikheyev Alexander S. , Rabeling Christian , Scott Jarrod J. , Cooper Michael , Rodrigues Andre , Ortiz Adriana , Brandão Carlos R. F. , Lattke John E. , Pagnocca Fernando C. , Rehner Stephen A. , Schultz Ted R. , Vasconcelos Heraldo L. , Adams Rachelle M. M. , Bollazzi Martin , Clark Rebecca M. , Himler Anna G. , LaPolla John S. , Leal Inara R. , Johnson Robert A. , Roces Flavio , Sosa‐Calvo Jeffrey , Wirth Rainer , Bacci Maurício
Published: November 2017

Leafcutter ants propagate co‐evolving fungi for food. The nearly 50 species of leafcutter ants (Atta,Acromyrmex) range from Argentina to the United States, with the greatest species diversity in southern South America. We elucidate the biogeography of fungi cultivated by leafcutter ants usingDNAsequence and microsatellite‐marker analyses of 474 cultivars collected across the leafcutter range. Fungal cultivars belong to two clades (Clade‐A and Clade‐B). The dominant and widespread Clade‐A cultivars form three genotype clusters, with their relative prevalence corresponding to southern South America, northern South America, Central and North America. Admixture between Clade‐A populations supports genetic exchange within a single species,Leucocoprinus gongylophorus. Some leafcutter species that cut grass as fungicultural substrate are specialized to cultivate Clade‐B fungi, whereas leafcutters preferring dicot plants appear specialized on Clade‐A fungi. Cultivar sharing between sympatric leafcutter species occurs frequently such that cultivars ofAttaare not distinct from those ofAcromyrmex. Leafcutters specialized on Clade‐B fungi occur only in South America. Diversity of Clade‐A fungi is greatest in South America, but minimal in Central and North America. Maximum cultivar diversity in South America is predicted by the Kusnezov–Fowler hypothesis that leafcutter ants originated in subtropical South America and only dicot‐specialized leafcutter ants migrated out of South America, but the cultivar diversity becomes also compatible with a recently proposed hypothesis of a Central American origin by postulating that leafcutter ants acquired novel cultivars many times from other nonleafcutter fungus‐growing ants during their migrations from Central America across South America. We evaluate these biogeographic hypotheses in the light of estimated dates for the origins of leafcutter ants and their cultivars.
Factive and nonfactive mental state attribution
Authors: Nagel Jennifer
Published: November 2017

Factive mental states, such as knowing or being aware, can only link an agent to the truth; by contrast, nonfactive states, such as believing or thinking, can link an agent to either truths or falsehoods. Researchers of mental state attribution often draw a sharp line between the capacity to attribute accurate states of mind and the capacity to attribute inaccurate or “reality‐incongruent” states of mind, such as false belief. This article argues that the contrast that really matters for mental state attribution does not divide accurate from inaccurate states, but factive from nonfactive ones.
Arsenic methylation by a novel ArsM As(III) S‐adenosylmethionine methyltransferase that requires only two conserved cysteine residues
Authors: Huang Ke , Xu Yan , Packianathan Charles , Gao Fan , Chen Chuan , Zhang Jun , Shen Qirong , Rosen Barry P. , Zhao Fang‐Jie
Published: November 2017

Arsenic (As) biomethylation is an important component of the As biogeochemical cycle that can influence As toxicity and mobility in the environment. Biomethylation of As is catalyzed by the enzyme arsenite (As[III]) S‐adenosylmethionine methyltransferase (ArsM). To date, all identified ArsM orthologs with As(III) methylation activities have four conserved cysteine residues, which are thought to be essential for As(III) methylation. Here, we isolated an As(III)‐methylating bacterium, Bacillus sp. CX‐1, and identified a gene encoding a S‐adenosylmethionine methyltranserase termed BlArsM with low sequence similarities (≤ 39%) to other ArsMs. BlArsM has six cysteine residues (Cys10, Cys11, Cys145, Cys193, Cys195 and Cys268), three of which (Cys10, Cys145 and Cys195) align with conserved cysteine residues found in most ArsMs. BlarsM is constitutively expressed in Bacillus sp. CX‐1. Heterologous expression of BlarsM conferred As(III) resistance. Purified BlArsM methylated both As(III) and methylarsenite (MAs[III]), with a final product of dimethylarsenate (DMAs[V]). When all six cysteines were individually altered to serine residues, only C145S and C195S derivatives lost the ability to methylate As(III) and MAs(III). The derivative C10S/C11S/C193S/C268S was still active. These results suggest that BlArsM is a novel As(III) S‐adenosylmethionine methyltransferase requiring only two conserved cysteine residues. A model of As(III) methylation by BlArsM is proposed.
Multiple plasmid‐borne virulence genes of Clavibacter michiganensis ssp. capsici critical for disease development in pepper
Authors: Hwang In Sun , Oh Eom‐Ji , Kim Donghyuk , Oh Chang‐Sik
Published: November 2017

Clavibacter michiganensis ssp. capsici is a Gram‐positive plant‐pathogenic bacterium causing bacterial canker disease in pepper. Virulence genes and mechanisms of C. michiganensis ssp. capsici in pepper have not yet been studied.

To identify virulence genes of C. michiganensis ssp. capsici, comparative genome analyses with C. michiganensis ssp. capsici and its related C. michiganensis subspecies, and functional analysis of its putative virulence genes during infection were performed.

The C. michiganensis ssp. capsici type strain PF008 carries one chromosome (3.056 Mb) and two plasmids (39 kb pCM1Cmc and 145 kb pCM2Cmc). The genome analyses showed that this bacterium lacks a chromosomal pathogenicity island and celA gene that are important for disease development by C. michiganensis ssp. michiganensis in tomato, but carries most putative virulence genes in both plasmids. Virulence of pCM1Cmc‐cured C. michiganensis ssp. capsici was greatly reduced compared with the wild‐type strain in pepper. The complementation analysis with pCM1Cmc‐located putative virulence genes showed that at least five genes, chpE, chpG, ppaA1, ppaB1 and pelA1, encoding serine proteases or pectate lyase contribute to disease development in pepper.

In conclusion, C. michiganensis ssp. capsici has a unique genome structure, and its multiple plasmid‐borne genes play critical roles in virulence in pepper, either separately or together.
Identification of perivascular and stromal mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells in porcine endometrium
Authors: Wiater J , Niedziela M , Posmysz A , Wartalski K , Gajda B , Smorąg Z , Rajfur Z , Karasiński J
Published: November 2017

Contents

Mammalian uterus contains a population of mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells that likely contribute to endometrial regeneration during each reproductive cycle. In human and mouse, they reside in perivascular, epithelial and stromal compartments of the endometrial functionalis and basalis. Here, we aimed to identify tissue resident cells expressing mesenchymal stem cell markers CD29, CD44, CD90, CD105, CD140b and CD146 in the porcine endometrium. We used single immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Each of these markers was detected in small cells surrounding endometrial blood vessels. CD105 and CD146 were also expressed in single stromal cells. A few stromal and perivascular cells showed the presence of pluripotency marker Oct4 in the cytoplasm, but not in the nucleus, which may imply they are not truly pluripotent. Endometrial cell cultures were examined for the expression of CD29, CD44, CD90, CD105 and CD140b proteins and tested in wound‐healing assay and culture model of chemotaxis. In conclusion, our results demonstrate perivascular location of prospective mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells in the porcine endometrium and may suggest that stromal CD105+ and CD146+ cells represent more mature precursors originating from their perivascular ancestors.
Estimating the Size and Impact of Affirmative Action in Undergraduate Admissions at the University of Cape Town
Authors: Kerr Andrew , Piraino Patrizio , Ranchhod Vimal
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we estimate the extent and targeting of affirmative action at the University of Cape Town (UCT), a large public university in South Africa. To do this we use admissions data from the UCT, as well as South African population census data and administrative enrolment and graduation data from the South African Department of Higher Education. We find that affirmative action does have a significant effect on the racial distribution of who is made an offer by the university. We also find that affirmative action is well targeted, with those who we estimate to be beneficiaries being of much lower socioeconomic status than those who we estimate are displaced by affirmative action. Beneficiaries of affirmative action have low graduation rates on average, with those beneficiaries who attend UCT being less likely to graduate than those beneficiaries who enrol at other public universities.
Distinct features of multivesicular body‐lysosome fusion revealed by a new cell‐free content‐mixing assay
Authors: Karim Mahmoud Abdul , Samyn Dieter Ronny , Mattie Sevan , Brett Christopher Leonard
Published: November 2017

When marked for degradation, surface receptor and transporter proteins are internalized and delivered to endosomes where they are packaged into intralumenal vesicles (ILVs). Many rounds of ILV formation create multivesicular bodies (MVBs) that fuse with lysosomes exposing ILVs to hydrolases for catabolism. Despite being critical for protein degradation, the molecular underpinnings of MVB‐lysosome fusion remain unclear, although machinery underlying other lysosome fusion events is implicated. But how then is specificity conferred? And how is MVB maturation and fusion coordinated for efficient protein degradation? To address these questions, we developed a cell‐free MVB‐lysosome fusion assay using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model. After confirming that the Rab7 ortholog Ypt7 and the multisubunit tethering complex HOPS (homotypic fusion and vacuole protein sorting complex) are required, we found that the Qa‐SNARE Pep12 distinguishes this event from homotypic lysosome fusion. Mutations that impair MVB maturation block fusion by preventing Ypt7 activation, confirming that a Rab‐cascade mechanism harmonizes MVB maturation with lysosome fusion.
Recurrence rates of hyperemesis gravidarum in pregnancy: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Dean Caitlin , Bannigan Katrina , O’Hara Margaret , Painter Rebecca , Marsden Jon
Published: November 2017

Review question/objective:

The quantitative objective of this review is to identify the recurrence rate of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) in subsequent pregnancies.
Experiences of people with Parkinson's disease and their views of physical activity interventions: a qualitative systematic review protocol
Authors: Hunter Heather , Lovegrove Christopher , Haas Bernhard , Freeman Jennifer , Gunn Hilary
Published: November 2017

Review question/objectives:

: This review aims to explore the experiences of people with Parkinson's disease (pwPD) participation in physical activity and their views of interventions designed to engage and sustain engagement. Synthesis of the best available evidence will be used to determine any gaps in the research literature and make recommendations on approaches to increase and maintain engagement in physical activity in pwPD living in a community setting. The specific objectives are to:

Explore pwPD experiences and preference(s) for physical activity.

Explore pwPD perceptions of barriers and enablers to physical activity.

Identify, from the perspective of pwPD, the impact of support mechanisms and behavior change interventions in maintaining participation in physical activity.
Emotional intelligence in nurse management and nurse job satisfaction and retention: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Phillips Jacqueline , Harris Janet
Published: November 2017

Objective:

The objective of this review is to map what is known about emotional intelligence (EI) in relation to staff job satisfaction and retention in nursing, and the tools that are used to measure EI in this context.

Review questions:

The primary question of this review is: What is known about nurse managers’ EI as it relates to staff job satisfaction and retention in nursing?

Sub-question 1: What tools are being used to measure nurse managers’ EI and what theoretical frameworks are they based on?

Sub-question 2: What gaps exist in the research related to nurse managers’ EI as it relates to staff job satisfaction and retention in nursing?
The association between anti-thyroid antibodies and quality of life in patients with thyroid disorders: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Patti Marion , Christian Robin
Published: November 2017

Review question:

The objective of this systematic literature review is to identify the association between anti-thyroid antibodies and quality of life in patients with thyroid disorders.
Factors influencing self-management in adults with diabetes: an umbrella review protocol
Authors: Alexandre Ketia , Desrichard Olivier , Burnand Bernard , Peytremann-Bridevaux Isabelle
Published: November 2017

Review objectives:

The aim of this umbrella review is to identify and describe factors influencing diabetes self-management (DSM) in adults with diabetes. More specifically, we will address DSM-related factors and their relationships, considering both qualitative and quantitative components of available literature.

The review question for the qualitative component of the umbrella review is:

i) Which are the factors which act as barriers to, or facilitators of, DSM among adults with diabetes?

The review questions for the quantitative component of the umbrella review are:

ii) What are the factors associated with DSM of adults with diabetes?

iii) What is the association between the identified factors and DSM in terms of strength and direction?

An additional question will be applied to both the qualitative and quantitative components of the overview:

iv) Do the identified factors (barriers or facilitators) vary according to patients’ sociodemographic, illness and treatment characteristics, in terms of type of factors, direction and strength of association?
Regulation of TMEM16A/ANO1 and TMEM16F/ANO6 ion currents and phospholipid scrambling by Ca2+ and plasma membrane lipid
Authors: Schreiber Rainer , Ousingsawat Jiraporn , Wanitchakool Podchanart , Sirianant Lalida , Benedetto Roberta , Reiss Karina , Kunzelmann Karl
Published: November 2017

Key points

TMEM16 proteins can operate as Ca2+‐activated Cl− channels or scramble membrane phospholipids, which are both highly relevant mechanisms during disease.

Overexpression of TMEM16A and TMEM16F were found to be partially active at 37°C and at resting intracellular Ca2+ concentrations.

We show that TMEM16 Cl− currents and phospholipid scrambling can be activated by modification of plasma membrane phospholipids, through reactive oxygen species and phospholipase A2.

While phospholipids and Cl− ions are likely to use the same pore within TMEM16F, TMEM16A only conducts Cl− ions.

Lipid regulation of TMEM16 proteins is highly relevant during inflammation and regulated cell death such as apoptosis and ferroptosis.

TMEM16/anoctamin (ANO) proteins form Ca2+‐activated ion channels or phospholipid scramblases. We found that both TMEM16A/ANO1 and TMEM16F/ANO6 produced Cl− currents when activated by intracellular Ca2+, but only TMEM16F was able to expose phosphatidylserine to the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane. Mutations within TMEM16F or TMEM16A/F chimeras similarly changed Cl− currents and phospholipid scrambling, suggesting the same intramolecular pathway for Cl− and phospholipids. When overexpressed, TMEM16A and TMEM16F produced spontaneous Cl− currents at 37°C even at resting intracellular Ca2+ levels, which was abolished by inhibition of phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Connversely, activation of PLA2 or application of active PLA2, as well as lipid peroxidation induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) using staurosporine or tert‐butyl hydroperoxide, enhanced ion currents by TMEM16A/F and in addition activated phospholipid scrambling by TMEM16F. Thus, TMEM16 proteins are activated by an increase in intracellular Ca2+, or independent of intracellular Ca2+, by modifications occurring in plasma and intracellular membrane phospholipids. These results may help to explain why regions distant to the TMEM16 pore and the Ca2+ binding sites control Cl− currents and phospholipid scrambling. Regulation of TMEM16 proteins through modification of membrane phospholipids occurs during regulated cell death such as apoptosis and ferroptosis. It contributes to inflammatory and nerve injury‐induced hypersensitivity and generation of pain and therefore provides a regulatory mechanism that is particularly relevant during disease.
A Prediction Model of Casing Wear in Extended-Reach Drilling With Buckled Drillstring
Authors: Tan Leichuan , Gao Deli , Zhou Jinhui
Published: November 2017

Buckled drillstring easily existed in extended-reach drilling (ERD) engineering, causing casing wear more severe. However, the effect of the buckled drillstring on casing wear prediction is going unheeded in long-term studies. To solve the issue, this paper proposes a new model, named as circumferential casing wear depth (CCWD) model, based on the energy principle and the more complicated geometry relationship than that in casing wear groove depth (CWGD) model. Meanwhile, sensitivity analysis of parameters clearly describes the changing trends among them. With the established composite wear models, the change of casing wear depth versus drilling footage under different composite wear cases is also discussed. The results show that the severe casing wear may occur if there is the buckled drillstring; due to the greater contact force and more sophisticated wear shape than those under nonbuckling condition, a shorter drilling footage could make a larger calculation error when only CWGD model is used. In the case study, the method of the inversion of casing wear factor from the drilled well can be used to predict the well whose structure resembles it; the revised coefficient, the maximum risky casing wear depth can be evaluated for each wellbore section to avoid drilling engineering failure. The new model provides a practical method to improve the prediction accuracy of casing wear in ERD. Neglecting the effect of the buckled drillstring will make the prediction underestimated and a great economic loss, which is significant for ERD.