bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genetic signatures of small effective population sizes and demographic declines in an endangered rattlesnake, Sistrurus catenatus
Authors: Sovic Michael , Fries Anthony , Martin Scott A. , Lisle Gibbs H. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractEndangered species that exist in small isolated populations are at elevated risk of losing adaptive variation due to genetic drift. Analyses that estimate short‐term effective population sizes, characterize historical demographic processes, and project the trajectory of genetic variation into the future are useful for predicting how levels of genetic diversity may change. Here, we use data from two independent types of genetic markers (single nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs] and microsatellites) to evaluate genetic diversity in 17 populations spanning the geographic range of the endangered eastern massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus). First, we use SNP data to confirm previous reports that these populations exhibit high levels of genetic structure (overall Fst = 0.25). Second, we show that most populations have contemporary Ne estimates <50. Heterozygosity–fitness correlations in these populations provided no evidence for a genetic cost to living in small populations, though these tests may lack power. Third, model‐based demographic analyses of individual populations indicate that all have experienced declines, with the onset of many of these declines occurring over timescales consistent with anthropogenic impacts (<200 years). Finally, forward simulations of the expected loss of variation in relatively large (Ne = 50) and small (Ne = 10) populations indicate they will lose a substantial amount of their current standing neutral variation (63% and 99%, respectively) over the next 100 years. Our results argue that drift has a significant and increasing impact on levels of genetic variation in isolated populations of this snake, and efforts to assess and mitigate associated impacts on adaptive variation should be components of the management of this endangered reptile.
Genomic signatures of introgression between commercial and native bumblebees, Bombus terrestris, in western Iberian Peninsula—Implications for conservation and trade regulation
Authors: Seabra Sofia G. , Silva Sara E. , Nunes Vera L. , Sousa Vitor C. , Martins Joana , Marabuto Eduardo , Rodrigues Ana S. B. , Pina‐Martins Francisco , Laurentino Telma G. , Rebelo Maria Teresa , Figueiredo Elisabete , Paulo Octávio S. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractHuman‐mediated introductions of species may have profound impacts on native ecosystems. One potential impact with largely unforeseen consequences is the potential admixture of introduced with autochthonous species through hybridization. Throughout the world, bumblebees have been deliberately introduced for crop pollination with known negative impacts on native pollinators. Given the likely allochthonous origin of commercial bumblebees used in Portugal (subspecies Bombus terrestris terrestris and B. t. dalmatinus), our aim was to assess their putative introgression with the native Iberian subspecies B. terrestris lusitanicus. We analysed one mitochondrial gene, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX1) and genomic data involving thousands of genome‐wide restriction‐site‐associated DNA markers (RAD‐seq). In the mitochondrial COX1 analyses, we detected one relatively common haplotype in commercial bumblebees, also present in wild samples collected nearby the greenhouses where the commercial hives are used. In the RAD‐seq analysis, we found a clear genetic differentiation between native and commercial lineages. Furthermore, we detected candidate hybrids in the wild, as well as putatively escaped commercial bumblebees, some of which being potentially fertile males. Although we cannot assess directly the fitness effects of introgressed alleles, there is a risk of maladaptive allele introgression to the local bumblebee subspecies, which can negatively impact autochthon populations. One immediate recommendation to farmers is for the proper disposal of hive boxes, after their use in greenhouses, so as to minimize the risk of escapees contaminating native populations. On the other hand, the feasibility of using local subspecies B. t. lusitanicus, preferably with local production, should be evaluated.
Activography reveals aberrant proteolysis in desquamating diseases of differing backgrounds
Authors: Zingkou Eleni , Pampalakis Georgios , Kiritsi Dimitra , Valari Manthoula , Jonca Nathalie , Sotiropoulou Georgia 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe role of epidermal proteolysis in overdesquamation was revealed in Netherton syndrome, a rare ichthyosis due to genetic deficiency of the LEKTI inhibitor of serine proteases. Recently, we developed activography, a new histochemical method, to spatially localize and semiquantitatively assess proteolytic activities using activity‐based probes. Activography provides specificity and versatility compared to in situ zymography, the only available method to determine enzymatic activities in tissue biopsies. Here, activography was validated in skin biopsies obtained from an array of distinct disorders and compared with in situ zymography. Activography provides a methodological advancement due to its simplicity and specificity and can be readily adapted as a routine diagnostic assay. Interestingly, the levels of epidermal proteolysis correlated with the degree of desquamation independent of skin pathology. Thus, deregulated epidermal proteolysis likely represents a universal mechanism underlying aberrant desquamation.
Detection of fluid secretion of three‐dimensional reconstructed eccrine sweat glands by magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Li Haihong , Chen Liyun , Zhang Mingjun , Xie Sitian , Zhang Cuiping 
Published: November 2018

AbstractWe previously showed three‐dimensional (3D) reconstructed eccrine sweat glands have similar structures as native eccrine sweat glands, but whether the 3D reconstructed sweat glands appropriately secrete fluid is still unknown. In this study, Matrigel‐embedded human eccrine sweat gland cells or Matrigel alone were implanted into the groin subcutis of the nude mice. Ten weeks post‐implantation, images of the subcutaneously formed plugs, as well as footpads of rats, pre‐ and post‐pilocarpine/normal saline (NS) injection were acquired using a fat‐suppressed proton density‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequence at 7.0 T, and the regions of interest (ROIs) in plugs and rat footpads were analysed and graphed. A significant increase in the ROI mean proton intensity occurred in both 3D reconstructed and native eccrine sweat glands after pilocarpine injection. The mean proton intensity had no noticeable changes in ROIs of Matrigel plugs between pre‐ and post‐pilocarpine injection, and in ROIs of rat footpads between pre‐ and post‐NS injection. In conclusion, the 3D reconstructed sweat glands possess fluid secretion, which is detectable by fat‐suppressed proton density‐weighted MRI.
CGRP, Amylin, Immunology, and Headache Medicine
Authors: Taylor Frederick R. 
Published: November 2018

BackgroundCalcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) therapeutics introduce new excitement and possibly yet to be determined distressing discords in the field of Headache Medicine. Growth in knowledge of CGRP in the pathophysiology of migraine introduced CGRP antagonism to headache treatment. Potential adverse effects on the other circulatory and neurovascular diseases have been foremost concerns. Failures in development of gepants and growth in knowledge of monoclonal antibody therapeutics combined to deliver the anti‐CGRP monoclonal antibodies (mAbs).Current Situation as of July 2018Erenumab, eptinezumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab are approved, submitted to, or preparing for submission at both the European Medicines Agency and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).MethodsThis Headache Currents update emanates from a symposium on CGRP and immunology in Headache Medicine, and reviews both.Results and ConclusionUnderstanding CGRP in Headache Medicine requires information on aspects of the CGRP ligand, cell surface G protein receptor, CGRP receptor specifics, and antagonism by CGRP small and large molecules. Recent reports of CGRP’s high affinity for amylin receptors dictate some attention to this family‐related peptide. To better understand potential immunogenic risks and off‐target toxicities of the anti‐CGRP monoclonal antibodies, this review discusses immunology and CGRP and reviews IgG structure and function, monoclonal antibody production, ligand–antigen–antibody relationships, and clinical CGRP mAb specifics. Upon completion, the reader should better summarize CGRP antagonist fundamentals, recall antibody structure and function, restate therapeutic mAbs attributes, and appraise immunogenic risks.
Purification of β‐carotene 15,15′‐monooxygenase from pig intestine and its enzymatic hydrolysis of pigment in soybean oil
Authors: Yu Dianyu , Zhang Ruchun , Wang Yuqi , Zou Dezhi , Li Tingting , Tang Honglin , Jiang Lianzhou , Wang Liqi 
Published: November 2018

Summaryβ‐Carotene 15,15′‐monooxygenase was isolated and purified from the intestinal mucosa of pigs, and then, it was applied to hydrolyse the pigment in soybean oil, and thus, vitamin A fortified soybean oil was obtained. The pig intestinal mucosal protein solution was purified to a specific activity of 2.487 × 10−4 U mg−1, maximum reaction velocity (Vmax) of 8.42 × 10−9 mol/h and Michaelis constant (Km) of 2.03 × 10−5 m. The protein solution had a molecular mass of 156 kDa by gel filtration. The sodium deoxycholate concentrations, optimum pH, Tween 40 amount and enzyme amount for vitamin A production in soybean oil were determined to be 6.0 mm, 8.0, 3.0% (w/v) and 0.2 U/mL enzyme, respectively. Under these conditions, β‐carotene 15,15′‐monooxygenase produced 14.65 mg/L vitamin A after 20 h, with a conversion yield of β‐carotene of 33.29% (w/w). Therefore, the nutrients in soybean oil were improved.
Process optimisation of pulsed electric fields pre‐treatment to reduce the sous vide processing time of beef briskets
Authors: Alahakoon Amali U. , Oey Indrawati , Bremer Phil , Silcock Patrick 
Published: November 2018

SummaryThis study used multiple regression to model the effect of pulsed electric field (electric field strengths 0.7, 1.0 or 1.5 kV cm−1) and sous vide (60 °C for either 12, 18 or 24 h) processing on the quality parameters (tenderness, cooking loss, colour, lipid stability) of beef brisket. Pulsed electric fields (PEF) at 0.7 kV cm−1 and 1.5 kV cm−1 followed by sous vide processing for 12–20.2 and 20.8–23.7 h, respectively gave the lowest values for hardness (<20.2 N), shear force (100.5 N mm−1 s−1) and cooking loss (<17.4%). PEF treatment prior to sous vide processing had no significant effect on lipid oxidation, colour stability, cooking loss or in vitro protein digestibility of sous vide‐processed brisket. Increasing the electric field strength and/or prolonging the sous vide time significantly increased collagen solubilisation in the sous vide brisket. This study demonstrated that a PEF pre‐treatment can reduce sous vide processing time while enhancing the tenderness of tough meat cuts.
Longitudinal investigation of the reciprocal relationship between depressive symptoms and glycemic control: The moderation effects of sex and perceived support
Authors: Chiu Ching‐Ju , Du Ye‐Fong 
Published: November 2018

AbstractAims/IntroductionThe present study investigated the longitudinal associations between depressive symptoms and glycemic control in nationally representative adults with type 2 diabetes, and tested the effects of sex and perceived family support in moderating this association.Materials and MethodsIn this longitudinal study of middle‐aged and older adults who participated in the 2002 and 2006 Health and Retirement Study, and the 2003 and 2006 Diabetes Study (n = 398), we applied a cross‐lagged structural equation model to examine the reciprocal relationship between depressive symptoms and glycemic control over a 3‐year period.ResultsMen and women were not different in terms of the depressive symptoms and glycemic control relationship, with a stronger association noted for higher depressive symptom scores predicting worse glycemic control (β = 0.22, critical ratio 3.03), as opposed to worse glycemic control predicting higher depressive symptom scores. Family and friend support for diabetes self‐management serves as an important buffer. In patients with low family and friend support, more depressive symptoms at baseline were associated with subsequent worse glycemic levels (β = 0.36, critical ratio 4.03). In contrast, in individuals who had strong support, depressive symptoms did not predict subsequent glycemic control.ConclusionsThe present study provided evidence for the relationship between glycemic control and depression, finding that depressive symptoms predicted poorly controlled glycemic status, especially when the participants perceived inadequate support from their family or friends. A quick survey in clinics to assess the level of family or friend support for diabetes management and depressive symptoms might be an important part of individualized diabetic care.
The economics of markets and platforms
Authors: Spulber Daniel F. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractAdvances in the study of both markets and platforms contribute to economics. Platforms are typically digital markets, although platforms can designate markets generally. So, the economics of markets and the economics of platforms are one and the same. Platforms show the critical role of intermediaries in endogenous price adjustment and market clearing. The platform model remedies problems with general equilibrium analysis by combining and extending the basic Walrasian and Marshalian market models. The analysis of platforms provides explanations for the bid–ask spread, including market power, search costs, matching costs, adverse selection, and moral hazard. The study of platforms demonstrates the importance of participation and coordination in the formation of markets. The discussion emphasizes that platforms have significant implications for the theory of the firm. The analysis further considers how platforms affect innovation and entrepreneurship.
Financial constraints and synergy gains from mergers and acquisitions
Authors: Duan Yang , Jin Yong 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThis paper examines mergers and acquisitions motivated by financial constraints. Synergy gain is measured as the cumulative abnormal return of a value‐weighted portfolio of the acquirer and the target around the acquisition announcement. By constructing a financial constraint difference between the target and the acquirer, we find a positive relationship between the financial constraint difference and synergy gains generated from the acquisition. The positive effect of the financial constraint difference is only significant for high growth targets and severely constrained targets. The acquirer's corporate governance also enhances the synergy gains created from the financial constraint difference. Additional evidence shows that both acquirer's and target's shareholders benefit from the financial constraint difference. Our results are robust for different measures of financial constraint.
Migrants’ Healthcare Experience: A Meta‐Ethnography Review of the Literature
Authors: Luiking Marie‐Louise , Heckemann Birgit , Ali Parveen , Dekker‐van Doorn Connie , Ghosh Sumana , Kydd Angela , Watson Roger , Patel Harshida 
Published: November 2018

AbstractPurposeWorldwide, more than 214 million people have left their country of origin. This unprecedented mass migration impacts health care in host countries. This article explores and synthesizes literature on the healthcare experiences of migrants.DesignA meta‐ethnography study of qualitative studies was conducted.MethodsEight databases (Medline, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature [CINAHL], PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Science, Migration Observatory, National Health Service Scotland Knowledge Network, and Adaptive Spectrum and Signal Alignment [ASSIA]) were searched for relevant full‐text articles in English, published between January 2006 and June 2016. Articles were screened against inclusion criteria for eligibility. Included articles were assessed for quality and analyzed using Noblit and Hare's seven‐step meta‐ethnography process.FindingsTwenty‐seven studies were included in the review. Five key contextualization dimensions were identified: personal factors, the healthcare system, accessing healthcare, the encounter, and the healthcare experience. These five areas all underlined the uniqueness of each individual migrant, emphasizing the need to treat a person rather than a population. Within a true person‐centered approach, the individual's cultural background is fundamental to effective care.ConclusionsFrom the findings, a model has been designed using the five dimensions and grounded in a person‐centered care approach. This may help healthcare providers to identify weak points, as well as to improve the organization and healthcare professionals’ ability to provide person‐centered care to migrant patients.Clinical RelevanceThe proposed model facilitates identification of points of weakness in the care of migrant patients. Employing a person‐centered care approach may contribute to improve health outcomes for migrant patients.
Qualitative and quantitative molecular analysis indicate the presence of Phaeomoniella chlamydospora in vineyard soils
Authors: Saccà Maria Ludovica , Manici Luisa Maria , Caputo Francesco , Frisullo Salvatore 
Published: November 2018

AbstractDuring the past two decades, esca disease has emerged as one of the most important diseases of grapevines. Esca is caused by complex of fungal pathogens, one of the main being Phaeomoniella chlamydospora (Pch). Since propagation material is considered one of the main infection sources of this fungus, most studies on Pch detection have focused on plant tissues and nursery soils. Conversely, due to methodological limitations encountered in retrieving this slow‐growing fungus, little is known about its true occurrence in vineyard soils. This study presents the adaptation of a molecular‐based methodology for the detection and quantification of Pch in soil samples. For this purpose, soil from the root‐explored area of esca‐foliar symptomatic and asymptomatic plants was sampled in 17 adult vineyards in two different climatic regions. Qualitative and quantitative nested PCR assays indicated the presence of Pch DNA in soil, differentiating between vineyards and regions, regardless of esca symptoms. The number of positive samples (32%) detected in the vineyards indicates that Pch can be recovered in natural soils, thus opening perspectives for the use of molecular tools in the study of the ecology and epidemiology of this fungus in soil.
Feed processing effects on digestibility, palatability, excreta fermentation products and blood parameters in blue‐fronted amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva)†
Authors: Di Santo Ludmilla G. , Braos Lucas B. , Kawanami Aline E. , Oliveira Juliana P. , Cruz Nathan R. N. , Mendonça Fernanda S. , Peixoto Mayara C. , Carciofi Aulus C. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractCaptive parrots show a high incidence of obesity and other metabolic disorders due to the consumption of unbalanced diets. Therefore, this study evaluated the digestibility and metabolic effects of transitioning blue‐fronted amazons from a high fat diet (sunflower seeds) to processed diets with three degrees of starch gelatinization (SG). The same feed formulation was processed to obtain pelletized feed (PEL) at 27.1% SG; low‐cooked extruded feed (EXTL) at 81.6% SG; and high‐cooked extruded feed (EXTH) at 98.5% SG. Thirty adult parrots were fed sunflower seeds for 90 days, then were distributed in a completely randomized design with 10 repetitions per treatment, and fed one of the three prepared diets for 160 days. Feed palatability, apparent digestibility, excreta concentrations of volatile fatty acids, lactate and ammonia, initial and final radiographic examinations, blood cell counts and glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, total protein, albumin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and uric acid levels were evaluated. The data were analysed by an analysis of variance and compared by Tukey's test (p < 0.05). Sunflower seed was more digestible than processed feeds (p < 0.05). Diet processing interfered with fat and starch digestibility (p < 0.001), being higher in the PEL than in the EXTH and EXTL respectively. Transitioning from sunflower seeds to balanced diets reduced serum glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol and AST (p < 0.05) and increased red blood cell, haemoglobin, lymphocyte, monocyte and leucocyte counts (p < 0.01). Radiographs indicated a decreased hourglass (p = 0.015) and a reduced heart‐liver ratio after ingesting the processed feeds (p < 0.05). Feed processing did not affect blood cell counts, serum biochemistry or radiographic examinations. In conclusion, parrots preferred the extruded diet and did not require an extensive SG to properly digest the feed. Consuming the processed diets improved the birds’ metabolism and health.
Genome sequencing of oomycete isolates from Chile supports the New Zealand origin of Phytophthora kernoviae and makes available the first Nothophytophthora sp. genome
Authors: Studholme David J. , Panda Preeti , Sanfuentes Von Stowasser Eugenio , González Mariela , Hill Rowena , Sambles Christine , Grant Murray , Williams Nari M. , McDougal Rebecca L. 
Published: November 2018

SummaryGenome sequences were generated for six oomycete isolates collected from forests in Valdivia, Chile. Three of the isolates were identified morphologically as Phytophthora kernoviae, whereas two were similar to other clade 10 Phytophthora species. One isolate was tentatively identified as Nothophytophthora valdiviana based on nucleotide sequence similarity in the cytochrome oxidase 1 gene. This is the first genome sequence for this recently described genus. The genome assembly was more fragmented and contained many duplicated genes when compared with the other Phytophthora sequences. Comparative analyses were performed with genomic sequences of the P. kernoviae isolates from the UK and New Zealand. Although the potential New Zealand origin of P. kernoviae has been suggested, new isolations from Chile had cast doubt on this hypothesis. We present evidence supporting P. kernoviae as having originated in New Zealand. However, investigation of the diversity of oomycete species in Chile has been limited and warrants further exploration. We demonstrate the expediency of genomic analyses in determining phylogenetic relationships between isolates within new and often scantly represented taxonomic groups, such as Phytophthora clade 10 and Nothophytophthora. Data are available on GenBank via BioProject accession number PRJNA352331.