bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Polygenic selection drives the evolution of convergent transcriptomic landscapes across continents within a Nearctic sister-species complex
Authors: Rougeux Clément , Gagnaire Pierre-Alexandre , Praebel Kim , Seehausen Ole , Bernatchez Louis 
Published: April 2018

ABSTRACTIn contrast to the plethora of studies focusing on the genomic basis of adaptive phenotypic divergence, the role of gene expression during speciation has been much less investigated and consequently, less understood. Yet, the convergence of differential gene expression patterns between closely related species-pairs might reflect the role of natural selection during the process of ecological speciation. Here, we test for intercontinental convergence in differential transcriptional signatures between limnetic and benthic sympatric species-pairs of Lake Whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) and its sister-lineage, the European Whitefish (C. lavaretus), using six replicated sympatric species-pairs (two in North America, two in Norway and two in Switzerland). We characterized both sequence variation in transcribed regions and differential gene expression between sympatric limnetic and benthic species across regions and continents. Our first finding was that differentially expressed genes (DEG) between limnetic and benthic whitefish tend to be enriched in shared polymorphism among sister-lineages. We then used both genotypes and co-variation in expression in order to infer polygenic selection at the gene level. We identified parallel outliers and DEG involving genes primarily over-expressed in limnetic species relative to the benthic species. Our analysis finally revealed the existence of shared genomic bases underlying parallel differential expression across replicated species pairs from both continents, such as a cis-eQTL affecting the pyruvate kinase expression level involved in glycolysis. Our results are consistent with a longstanding role of natural selection in maintaining transcontinental diversity at phenotypic traits involved in ecological speciation between limnetic and benthic whitefishes.
MIN1PIPE: A Miniscope 1-photon-based Calcium Imaging Signal Extraction Pipeline
Authors: Lu Jinghao , Li Chunyuan , Singh-Alvarado Jonnathan , Zhou Zhe Charles , Fröhlich Flavio , Mooney Richard , Wang Fan 
Published: April 2018

SUMMARYIn vivo calcium imaging using 1-photon based miniscope and microendoscopic lens enables studies of neural activities in freely behaving animals. However, the high and fluctuating background, the inevitable movements and distortions of imaging field, and the extensive spatial overlaps of fluorescent signals emitted from imaged neurons inherent in this 1-photon imaging method present major challenges for extracting neuronal signals reliably and automatically from the raw imaging data. Here we develop a unifying algorithm called MINiscope 1-photon imaging PIPEline (MIN1PIPE) that contains several standalone modules and can handle a wide range of imaging conditions and qualities with minimal parameter tuning, and automatically and accurately isolate spatially localized neural signals. We quantitatively compare MIN1PIPE with other existing partial methods using both synthetic and real datasets obtained from different animal models, and show that MIN1PIPE has a superior performance both in terms of efficiency and precision in analyzing noisy miniscope calcium imaging data.
Decision-making increases episodic memory via post-encoding consolidation
Authors: Murty Vishnu P. , DuBrow Sarah , Davachi Lila 
Published: April 2018

AbstractThe ability for individuals to actively make decisions engages regions within the mesolimbic system and enhances memory for chosen items. In other behavioral contexts, mesolimbic engagement has been shown to enhance episodic memory by supporting consolidation. However, research has yet to investigate how consolidation may support interactions between decision-making and episodic memory. Across two studies, participants encoded items that were occluded by cover screens and could either actively decide which of two items to uncover or were pre-selected by the experimenter. In Study 1, we show that active decision-making reduces forgetting rates across an immediate and 24-hour memory test, a behavioral marker of consolidation. In Study 2, we use functional neuroimaging to characterize putative neural markers of memory consolidation by measuring post-encoding interactions between the hippocampus and perirhinal cortex (PRC). We show that choice-related striatal engagement is associated with increased post-encoding hippocampal-PRC interactions. Finally, we show that a previous reported relationship between choice-related striatal engagement and long-term memory is accounted for by post-encoding hippocampal-PRC interactions. Together these findings support a model by which actively deciding to encode information enhances subsequent consolidation mechanisms to preserve episodic memory for outcomes.
Calcium-Calmodulin Gating of Connexin43 Gap Junctions in the Absence of the pH Gating Domain
Authors: Wei Siyu , Cassara Christian , Lin Xianming , Veenstra Richard D 
Published: April 2018

AbstractIntracellular protons and calcium ions are two major chemical factors that regulate connexin43 (Cx43) gap junction channels and the synergism or antagonism between pH and Ca2+ has been questioned for decades. In this study, we assessed whether the calcium gating mechanism occurs independently of the pH gating mechanism by utilizing the Cx43-M257 (Cx43K258stop) mutant, a carboxyl-terminal (CT) truncated version of Cx43 lacking the pH gating domain. Dual whole cell patch clamp experiments were performed on Neuroblastoma-2a (N2a) cells or neonatal mouse ventricular myocytes (NMVMs) expressing either full length Cx43 or Cx43-M257 proteins. Addition of 1 μM ionomycin to normal calcium saline reduced Cx43 or Cx43-M257 macroscopic gap junction conductance (gj) to zero within 15 min of perfusion, while this response was prevented by omitting 1.8 mM CaCl2 from the external solution or adding 100 nM calmodulin (CaM) inhibitory peptide to the internal pipette solution. The ability of connexin calmodulin binding domain (Cx CaMBD) mimetic peptides and the Gap19 peptide to inhibit the Ca2+/CaM gating response of Cx43 gap junctions was also examined. Internal addition of a Cx50 cytoplasmic loop CaMBD peptide (200 nM) prevented the Ca2+/ionomycin-induced decrease in Cx43 gj, while 100 μM Gap19 peptide had no effect. Lastly, the transjunctional voltage (Vj) gating properties of NMVM Cx43-M257 gap junctions were investigated. We confirmed that the fast kinetic inactivation component was absent in Cx43-M257 gap junctions, but also observed that the previously reported facilitated recovery of gj from inactivating potentials was abolished by CT truncation of Cx43. We conclude that CT pH gating domain of Cx43 contributes to the Vj-dependent fast inactivation and facilitated recovery of Cx43 gap junctions, but the Ca2+/CaM-dependent gating mechanism remains intact. Sequence-specific Cx CaMBD mimetic peptides act by binding Ca2+/CaM non-specifically and the Cx43 mimetic Gap19 peptide has no effect on this chemical gating mechanism.
Interneuronal gap junctions increase synchrony and robustness of hippocampal ripple oscillations
Authors: Holzbecher André , Kempter Richard 
Published: April 2018

1AbstractSharp wave-ripple (SWRs) are important for memory consolidation. Their signature in the hippocampal extracellular field potential (EFP) can be decomposed into a ≈ 100 ms long sharp wave superimposed by ≈ 200 Hz ripple oscillations. How ripple oscillations are generated is currently not well understood. A promising model for the genesis of ripple oscillations is based on recurrent interneuronal networks (INT-INT). According to this hypothesis, the INT-INT network in CA1 receives a burst of excitation from CA3 that generates the sharp wave, and recurrent inhibition leads to an ultrafast synchronization of the CA1 network causing the ripple oscillations; fast-spiking parvalbumin-positive basket cells (PV+BCs) may constitute the ripple-generating interneuronal network. PV+BCs are also coupled by gap junctions (GJs) but the function of GJs for ripple oscillations has not been quantified. Using simulations of CA1 hippocampal networks of PV+BCs, we show that GJs promote synchrony and increase the neuronal firing rate of the interneuronal ensemble, while the ripple frequency is only affected mildly. The promoting effect of GJs on ripple oscillations depends on fast GJ transmission (≲ 0.5 ms), which requires proximal gap junction coupling (≲ 100 μm from soma).
The impact of board characteristics on the financial performance of Tanzanian firms
Authors: Assenga Modest Paul , Aly Doaa , Hussainey Khaled 
Published: April 2018

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the impact of board characteristics on the financial performance of listed firms in Tanzania. Board characteristics, including outside directors, board size, CEO/Chair duality, gender diversity, board skill and foreign directors are addressed in the Tanzanian context by applying two corporate governance theories, namely, agency theory and resource dependence theory.

Design/methodology/approach
The paper uses balanced panel data regression analysis on 80 firm-years observations (2006-2013) from annual reports, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 key stakeholders. The study uses also a mixed methods approach and applies a convergent parallel design (Creswell and Plano Clark, 2011) to integrate quantitative and qualitative data.

Findings
It was found that in terms of agency theory, while the findings support the separation of CEO/Chairperson roles, they do not support outside directors-financial performance linkage. With regard to resource dependence theory, the findings suggest that gender diversity has a positive impact on financial performance. Furthermore, the findings do not support an association between financial performance and board size, PhD qualification and foreign directors.

Practical implications
The study contributes to the understanding of board-performance link and provides academic evidence to policy makers in Tanzania for current and future governance reforms.

Originality/value
The findings contribute to the literature by providing new and original insights that, within a developing setting, extend current understanding of the association between corporate governance and financial performance. This is predicated, also, on the use of uncommon mixed methods approach.
Developing cultural intelligence: learning together with reciprocal mentoring
Authors: Desai Sheetal , Rao Srinivasa A. , Jabeen Shazi Shah 
Published: April 2018

Purpose
This paper aims to focus on how reciprocal mentoring can be used to make employees culturally intelligent.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors conceptualize and present this framework based on their own experience in the industry and research experience in cross-cultural competence.

Findings
Workplaces today are characterized by high levels of multiculturalism. In such environments, being able to navigate this cultural diversity can be a challenge to many employees. Investing in cross-cultural training can be costly and time consuming. In such a situation, what better way to learn and appreciate cultural diversity than by bringing together two individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Reciprocal mentoring for developing cultural intelligence can be an effective practice that organizations can follow to develop intercultural competence amongst its employees.

Practical implications
The concept presented in the paper can help organizations use their own existing resources to develop cultural intelligence company-wide, rather than choosing third-party interventions/training.

Originality/value
This paper provides executives with a quick glimpse into the concept of cultural intelligence and its development through reciprocal mentoring.
HR tech startups in India
Authors: Madhvapaty Havish , Rajesh Anupama 
Published: April 2018

Purpose
This article aims to establish the need for professionals and industry to get together on a common platform to engage in discussions, identify innovations and set standards. The movement of employees from unorganized to organized segment is accelerating and subsequently the cost of managing employees is also going to increase manifold for Indian organizations. The HR Tech landscape is pegged at $400m annually and expected to grow significantly.

Design/methodology/approach
The paper looks at the HR Tech landscape and posits how HR technologies can help companies save significant costs, and also bring in advanced techniques such as automation and analytics which will improve work efficiency.

Findings
While big enterprises are also working in the area of HR technology, startups are showing rapid progress, owing to the fact that they do not have to cope with legacy data/technology/operations. Challenges still remain such as failure to lay groundwork for adoption by employees.

Practical implications
While there are diverse products and technologies in the market, the core challenge is to find the right product-market fit. HR buyers have to ensure that the solutions are future proof.

Social implications
Automation is going to affect a lot of jobs, certain profiles more so than others. At a larger scale, integrating automation in work processes will have a substantial adverse impact on employees in these job profiles.

Originality/value
The HR Tech landscape is inundated with technology-first startups. There is a dearth of academic literature. There is also a cogent need for professionals and industry to get together on a common platform to engage in discussions, identify innovations, and set standards.
Investigation of oil uptake modeling and moisture content in fried nuggets using different maize starches
Authors: Yosefzadeh Sani Sepideh , Mortazavi Sayed Ali , Sheikholeslami Zahra , Karimi Mehdi , Elhamirad Amir Hossein 
Published: April 2018

Purpose
In the past decades, the desire to use natural source foods has increased because of environmental compatibility, safety and appropriate costs. Sonication is used in food industry owing to its short duration of process and saving energy. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of various maize starches in the batter on the oil absorption and quality assessment (moisture content) of chicken nuggets by using five mathematical models.

Design/methodology/approach
To determine the effects of different maize starches on oil absorption parameters, 5 per cent starches native, sonicated starch were substituted in batter instead of wheat flour. Suspensions contained native starch were treated with sonication (70 kHz, 5 min) using an ultrasound probe set. Samples were fried in a fryer at 150, 170 and 190°C for 1, 3and 5 min, respectively. Models were compared with R2 and Arrhenius equation for estimating model prediction sufficiency.

Findings
Obtained results represented that between different formulated samples, maize starch with high temperature had main significant effect (p < 0.05) on moisture content of nuggets. During frying, the amount of oil loses significantly (p < 0.05) depended on temperature and time and sonication treatment.

Originality/value
Incorporation of sonication with maize starch at higher temperature on quality assessment has not been found.
Sardine proteins (Sardina pilchardus) combined with green lemon zest (Citrus latifolia) improve blood pressure, lipid profile and redox status in diabetic hypertensive rats
Authors: Khelladi HadjMostefa , Krouf Djamil , Taleb-Dida Nawal 
Published: April 2018

PurposeThis paper aims to study the effect of green lemon zest combined with sardine proteins in diabetic hypertensive rats (DHRs).Design/methodology/approachMale Wistar rats (n= 30) weighing 250 ± 10 g were divided into five groups. The first group consumed a diet containing 20 per cent casein (C). The other four groups are rendered diabetic by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg body weight), then hypertensive by subcutaneous implantation controlled time-release pellet containing ouabain (0.25 mg/pellet). One untreated group (DHR) consumed 20 per cent casein and the three other groups consumed the same diet supplemented with 2 per cent green lemon zest (DHR-lz), or with 20 per cent of sardine protein (group DHR-sp) or with the combination of both sardine proteins and green lemon zest (group DHR-sp + lz).FindingsDHRs feeding on the combination of both sardine protein (sp) and lemon zest (lz) induced a significant decrease of diastolic blood pressure and heart rates values compared with DHR (p< 0.05). The HDLC values were increased by +55 per cent in DHR-sp + lz compared with DHR group. Moreover, plasma non-HDLC concentrations were decreased significantly compared to DHR, DHR-lz, DHR-sp and C groups. In DHR-sp + lzvs DHR group, TBARS values were decreased by −25 per cent in the liver. Moreover, kidney TBARS were significantly reduced by −66, −51, −65 and −67 per cent compared with C, DHR, DHR-lz and DHR-sp, respectively.Originality/valueThese results suggest that consumption of green lemon zest combined with sardine proteins can reduce blood pressure and tissue oxidative damage and, therefore, help to prevent cardiovascular complications in hypertensive diabetic patients.
Navy expeditionary logistics
Authors: Yoho Keenan , Apte Uday 
Published: April 2018

Synopsis
Continuous process improvement has been widely taught in business schools and has yielded real results and success in both for-profit and non-profit sectors. Though there have been many cases developed for use in business schools, few, if any, situate the topic in a military context. Further, expeditionary logistics presents managers with special problems of being removed from their supporting enterprise systems that process, track, and/or control of such logistical elements as purchase orders, inventory, distribution, receivables, and fulfillment. The authors present a case in a military setting that exposes students to the challenges of expeditionary logistics and takes them through the fundamentals of process analysis and process improvement.

Research methodology
The authors used a research methodology of a case study. Data were collected during field visits over the course of multiple interviews. Interviews were conducted with subject matter experts and active professionals serving in US Navy expeditionary logistics roles regarding processes and process performance.

Relevant courses and levels
This case can be applied to senior undergraduate or graduate-level courses in operations management, supply chain management, or logistics.

Theoretical bases
The theoretical bases adopted in this paper are supply chain management, information technology, operations management, and process improvement methodologies such as Six Sigma and Lean.
Opportunistic Behaviour and Trust: Experimental Results from Broccoli Farmers in Ecuador
Authors: Romero Granja Cristina , Wollni Meike 
Published: April 2018

AbstractLinking smallholder farmers to high‐value markets through contract farming has become an important strategy to increase farm incomes in developing countries. However, various forms of opportunistic behaviour have been reported, threatening the sustainability of inclusive supply chains. When formal institutions are weak, informal codes of conduct like trust can be important complements to facilitate market transactions. We explore the effect of opportunistic behaviour on farmers’ trust, using a field‐framed trust experiment with prior signaling with small‐scale farmers in Ecuador. These farmers are linked to different types of markets, including high‐value export chains, and have been exposed to varying levels of opportunistic behaviour in the past. Our unique dataset allows us to control for self‐selection of game participants. We find that a positive signal triggers a positive response increasing trust, while a negative signal has no effect – possibly reflecting very low overall trust levels. In settings where market linkages have failed previously, ex‐ante credible positive signals could help to build trust and encourage small farmers’ participation in sustainable value chains.
Ten Challenges in Democracy Support – and How to Overcome them
Authors: Dodsworth Susan , Cheeseman Nic 
Published: April 2018

AbstractDemocracy supporters face tough times. Authoritarian reversals across North and sub‐Saharan Africa, combined with a lack of progress in the Middle East and Central Asia, have dampened funders’ enthusiasm for the endeavour. To better understand these setbacks, we identify ten challenges in democracy support. These are the challenges of: (i) difficult cases; (ii) authoritarian backlash; (iii) adapting to context; (iv) confronting politics; (v) managing uncertainty; (vi) unintended side‐effects; (vii) a tight funding environment; (viii) defining and demonstrating success; (ix) competing priorities; and – exacerbating all the rest, (x) a limited evidence base. While much has been written about the need for more coordinated and politically intelligent engagement to meet these challenges, far less has been said about the need to improve our evidence‐base and the way in which policy‐oriented research is produced. We identify several strategies that policy makers and practitioners can use to advance the field. All require better bridges between research, policy and practice, so we offer concrete suggestions about how such bridges can be built.
How do MAR(1) models cope with hidden nonlinearities in ecological dynamics?
Authors: Certain Grégoire , Barraquand Frédéric , Gårdmark Anna 
Published: April 2018

Abstract

Multivariate autoregressive (MAR) models are an increasingly popular technique to infer interaction strengths between species in a community and to predict the community response to environmental change. The most commonly employed MAR(1) models, with one time lag, can be viewed either as multispecies competition models with Gompertz density dependence or, more generally, as a linear approximation of more complex, nonlinear dynamics around stable equilibria. This latter interpretation allows for broader applicability, but may come at a cost in terms of interpretation of estimates and reliability of both short‐ and long‐term predictions.

We investigate what these costs might be by fitting MAR(1) models to simulated 2‐species competition, consumer‐resource and host–parasitoid systems, as well as a larger food web influenced by the environment. We review how MAR(1) coefficients can be interpreted and evaluate how reliable are estimates of interaction strength, rank, or sign; accuracy of short‐term forecasts; as well as the ability of MAR(1) models to predict the long‐term responses of communities submitted to environmental change such as PRESS perturbations.

The net effects of species j on species i are usually (90%‐95%) well recovered in terms of sign or rank, with the notable exception of overcompensatory dynamics. In actual values, net effects of species j on species i are not well recovered when the underlying dynamics are nonlinear. MAR(1) models are better at making short‐term qualitative forecasts (next point going up or down) than at predicting long‐term responses to environmental perturbations, which can be severely over‐ as well as underestimated.

We conclude that when applying MAR(1) models to ecological data, inferences on net effects among species should be limited to signs, or the Gompertz assumption should be tested and discussed. This particular assumption on density‐dependence (log‐linearity) is also required for unbiased long‐term predictions. Overall, we think that MAR(1) models are highly useful tools to resolve and characterize community dynamics, but we recommend to use them in conjunction with alternative, nonlinear models resembling the ecological context in order to improve their interpretation in specific applications.