Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Recruitment of the γ-Tubulin Ring Complex to Drosophila Salt-stripped Centrosome Scaffolds

Extracting isolated Drosophila centrosomes with 2 M KI generates salt-resistant scaffolds that lack the centrosomal proteins CP190, CP60, centrosomin, and γ-tubulin. To clarify the role of these proteins in microtubule nucleation by centrosomes and to identify additional centrosome components required for nucleation, we have developed an in vitro complementation assay for centrosome function. Centrosome aster formation is reconstituted when these inactive, salt-stripped centrosome scaffolds are supplemented with a soluble fraction of a Drosophila embryo extract. The CP60 and CP190 can be removed from this extract without effect, whereas removing the γ-tubulin destroys the complementing activity. Consistent with these results, we find no evidence that these three proteins form a complex together. Instead, γ-tubulin is found in two distinct protein complexes of 240,000 and ∼3,000,000 D. The larger complex, which is analogous to the Xenopus γ-tubulin ring complex (γTuRC) (Zheng, Y., M.L. Wong, B. Alberts, and T. Mitchison. 1995. Nature. 378:578–583), is necessary but not sufficient for complementation. An additional factor found in the extract is required. These results provide the first evidence that the γTuRC is required for microtubule nucleation at the centrosome.
Demand Side Management for Smart Grid Based on Smart Home Appliances with Renewable Energy Sources and an Energy Storage System

A novel energy management system to improve the efficiency of renewable energy and storage system by scheduling various types of household appliances is developed. The end users schedule appliances optimally taking into account maximum utility (a measure of the satisfaction level of user’s electricity consumption) as well as minimum user’s cost of energy as competitive objectives. A random disturbance (reflecting an uncertainty) is introduced to describe the indeterminate amount of the electricity produced from the renewable energy sources at the adjacent slots. By applying the probability theory, the uncertain optimization model is transformed into a convex optimization problem. Then, the optimal solution is obtained using a quasi-Newton method. The rationality of our proposed model is verified through numerical simulations. According to the results of simulation studies, it is demonstrated that our proposed model not only enhances users’ utility but also reduces energy consumption cost.
Multiobjective Optimization of Safety Risk of Prefabricated Building Construction considering Risk Correlation

The analysis of the overall risk level of the system and the reduction of risk control costs are the key links to avoid the safety risks of prefabricated construction. In this paper, a dual-objective optimization model is constructed with the objective of minimizing system security risk loss and control cost to minimize the level of construction safety risks for prefabricated building while minimizing cost consumption. This paper introduces risk correlation into the optimization model based on the 2-additive fuzzy measure and solves it with discrete multiobjective particle swarm optimization (discrete-MOPSO). The example shows that considering the correlation of risks in different situations can better reflect the interaction relationship between the risk factors of building construction safety and improve the rationality of the optimization model.
Effects of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Gambusia yucatana, an Endemic Fish from Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

Abstract The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of the acute exposition of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in four different concentrations (4.37, 8.73, 17.46, 34.95 µg L−1) in Gambusia yucatana, an endemic fish of the Yucatán Peninsula by the characterization of the biomarkers activities: EROD, GST, TBARS, SOD, CAT, and GPx on liver; and AChE on brain. EROD and GST activities increased 292% and 754%, respectively, at the highest concentration (p < 0.0001). TBARS decreased 51%, 49%, and 36% in the three last concentrations (p < 0.0001). SOD activity increased 56% at the highest concentration (p < 0.05). There was no difference in the GPx activity at any treatments. CAT activity decreased 85% at the highest concentration (p < 0.005). AChE activity decreased at all treatments (p < 0.0001). We concluded that PAHs are bioaccumulated and metabolized in G. yucatana mainly at a concentration of 34.95 µg L−1; SOD and GPx activities were affected during exposure period compared to the control, indicating the possible mechanism of oxidative stress and AChE could be a good indicator of exposure to PAHs. Finally, we believe that our results could be very useful for the development of G. yucatana conservation strategies.
The Partitioning of Reproductive Energy between Ova and Protective Capsules in Marine Gastropods of the Genus Conus

The physical strength and energetic cost of egg capsules belonging to 10 species of Hawaiian Conus were determined in the laboratory. Capsular material was found to contain 5442 cal/g as opposed to 6238 cal/g for ova. Capsules accounted for up to 50% of total reproductive energy devoted to capsules and ova. Both the puncture resistance of capsules and the proportional energy allocation to capsules increased with increasing development time. Development time was found to be positively correlated with egg size. Strong capsules produced by species with large ova may have evolved as a result of selection for improved protection of embryos from predation and physical stress during a protracted period of development. The increasing allocation of reproductive energy to capsules as a function of egg size reflects the cost of producing stronger capsules.
Predicting an optimal composite outcome variable for Huntington's disease clinical trials

ABSTRACT While there is no known cure for Huntington's disease (HD), there are early-phase clinical trials aimed at altering disease progression patterns. There is, however, no obvious single outcome for these trials to evaluate treatment efficacy. Currently used outcomes are, while reasonable, not optimal in any sense. In this paper we derive a method for constructing a composite variable via a linear combination of clinical measures. Our composite variable optimizes the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) within the context of a longitudinal study design. We also demonstrate how to induce sparsity using a soft-approximation of an penalty on the coefficients of the composite variable. We applied our method to data from the TRACK-HD study, a longitudinal study aimed at establishing good outcome measures for HD, and found that compared to the existing composite measurement our composite variable provides a larger SNR and allows clinical trials with smaller sample sizes to achieve equivalent power.
Nitric oxide production in tobacco leaf cells: a generalized stress response?

The function of nitric oxide (NO), a gaseous free radical emitted by many plants, is incompletely understood. In the present study the hypothesis that NO generation, like that of the reactive oxygen species, occurs as a general response to different environmental cues was tested. Leaf peels and mesophyll cell suspensions of Nicotiana tabacum cv. Xanthi were loaded with the NO-specific fluorophore, diaminofluorescein, and subjected to an abiotic stressor. Light stress and mechanical injury had no apparent effect on NO production. In contrast, high temperatures, hyperosmotic stress, salinity and epi-illumination in a microscope all led to rapid surges in NO-induced fluorescence. The fluorescence originated from cells of the palisade mesophyll and across all epidermal cell types, including guard cells, subsidiary cells, and long and short trichomes. Fluorescence was evident first in the plastids, then in the nucleus and finally throughout the cytosol. Nicotiana plumbaginifolia cell suspensions expressing the calcium reporter aequorin provided evidence that, under hyperosmotic stress, NO participates in the elevation of free Ca 2+ + + in the cytoplasm. The physiological significance of NO production in response to abiotic stressors is discussed.
Discovery and spatial assessment of a Hochstetter's frog (Leiopelma hochstetteri) population found in Maungatautari Scenic Reserve, New Zealand

Abstract We describe the discovery, genetic status, and survey of a Hochstetter's frog population (Leiopelma hochstetteri) found in Maungatautari Scenic Reserve, New Zealand. The strongest genetic affinities of the Maungatautari population are with a population of frogs at Mt Ranginui, approximately 55 km away, according to the single genetic sample taken. Frogs were found over an area of at least 120 ha on Maungatautari, and the encounter rate (0.66 frogs/ person hour) and relative abundance (2.7/100 m) was low compared to most other populations. The survey results suggest that the population is relatively small, and that introduced mammals, particularly ship rats (Rattus rattus) and feral pigs (Sus scrofa) may pose a significant threat. Weather conditions and observer experience/bias were also likely to have influenced our results. Eradication of introduced mammals from Maungatautari is scheduled for late 2006. Continued monitoring of frogs will document their response to mammalian pest eradication, and the functional importance of Hochstetter's frog in a large mainland island free of introduced mammals.
Measurement of non-enzymic browning of dehydrated and intermediate moisture meat

Non-enzymic browning (NEB) of a traditional intermediate moisture meat (den-deng) and dehydrated meat was measured by both aqueous trypsin digestion and lead acetate-ethanol precipitation methods. Trypsin digestion did not interfere with NEB determination, and the addition of a glucose-glycine NEB mixture to dendeng had no effect on NEB measured by the lead acetate-ethanol precipitation method. Comparison of NEB measurements by the lead acetate-ethanol precipitation method and an aqueous trypsin digestion method on dendeng containing added myoglobin and/or haem pigments showed that only the lead acetate-ethanol precipitation method overcame errors which were due to the presence of these pigments. Spice pigments present in dendeng also interfered and led to high NEB values, while NEB increased markedly in the presence of coconut sugar. Results for NEB of dendeng and dehydrated meat stored for up to 12 weeks at 50°C were lower when measured by the lead acetate-ethanol precipitation method compared to results by the aqueous trypsin digestion method, although both methods showed that NEB increased with storage time.
IFRS adoption/reporting and auditor fees: the conditional effect of audit firm size and tenure

Purpose - This paper aims to investigate the impact of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adoption on audit and non-audit fees in the UK setting. The study investigates whether UK firms adopting IFRS for the first time or reporting under IFRS, in general, are being charged higher audit and non-audit fees and whether this impact is conditional on audit firm size and tenure. Design/methodology/approach - Using empirical data for UK listed firms from 2003-2007, the paper uses a regression model that explains audit and non-audit fees by independent variables measuring auditors’ and auditees’ characteristics including IFRS adoption and reporting. Additional regressions with interaction terms were performed to test the hypothetical conditional impact of auditor size and audit firm tenure on the above-mentioned association. Findings - Audit and non-audit fees increase significantly for companies adopting IFRS for the first time and this increase is persistent during later years. In addition, results suggest that both Big four and non-Big four auditors charge higher audit and non-audit fees to their clients adopting or reporting under IFRS in a similar manner. Furthermore, findings indicate that audit firms increase audit and non-audit fees for old and new clients using IFRS which suggests no low-balling effect is detected. Research limitations/implications - Results reported in this study provide insights to regulators in jurisdictions similar to the UK regarding the cost of IFRS adoption which includes higher audit and non-audit fees imposed by both Big four and non-Big four audit firms. In addition, this study argues, to some extent, against the notion that auditors may charge lower fees in the early years of the audit engagement to win new audit clients. Originality/value - To the best of the knowledge, the findings are unique at two levels. First, the paper provides evidence on the cost of using IFRS in the UK jurisdiction which was not explored by previous research. Second, the paper investigates the potential conditional effect of auditor size and audit tenure on the association between IFRS adoption and auditors’ fees.
Tax Progressivity and Entrepreneurial Dynamics

This study examines how tax progressivity affects entrepreneurial dynamics in 18 countries. The results show that increased downside progressivity has a positive influence on the transition rate from nascent entrepreneurship to established business ownership. In addition, only downside progressivity calculated using marginal tax rates is related to the transition ratio, implying that it is marginal tax rates, and not average tax rates, that are used in the entrepreneurial decision-making process. This paper contributes to our understanding of entrepreneurial dynamics and the effect of tax progressivity on the transition from nascent entrepreneurship to established business ownership.
The use of acoustic cameras in shallow waters: new hydroacoustic tools for monitoring migratory fish population. A review of DIDSON technology

European Union legislation, through the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/ EC), as well as national legislation, such as the ‘Grenelle Environnement’ (2007) in France, requires restoration of ecological connectivity in streams to improve free circulation of migratory fish. Different methods (e.g. capture by trap or net, telemetry, hydroacoustics) are used to evaluate the efficiency of fish passes to estimate the migratory species abundance and analyse changes in their within-river distributions. Among these methods, hydroacoustics is non-intrusive, allowing long-term observation and description of fish populations based on physical properties of sound in water. However, the main limit to hydroacoustic tools is their difficulty in identifying species. Initially designed for military purposes, dual-frequency identification sonar (DIDSON) has been used in environmental management for a decade. This acoustic camera uses higher frequencies and more sub-beams than common hydroacoustic tools, which improves image resolution and then enables observation of fish morphology and swimming behaviour. The ability to subtract static echoes from echograms and directly measure fish length improve the species-identification process. However, some limits have been identified, such as automatic dataset recording and the low range of the detection beam, which decreases accuracy, but efficient tools are now being developed to improve the accuracy of data recording (morphology, species identification, direction and speed). The new technological properties of acoustic cameras, such as the video-like visualization of the data, have greatly improved monitoring of diadromous fish populations (abundance, distribution and behaviour), helping river and fisheries managers and researchers in making decisions.
Growth, Properties, and Applications of Pulsed Laser Deposited Nanolaminate 
Ti3AlC2
 Thin Films

Recently, nanolaminated ternary carbides have attracted immense interest due to the concomitant presence of both ceramic and metallic properties. Here, we grow nanolaminate Ti3AlC2 thin films by pulsed laser deposition on c-axis-oriented sapphire substrates and, surprisingly, the films are found to be highly oriented along the (103) axis normal to the film plane, rather than the (000l) orientation. Multiple characterization techniques are employed to explore the structural and chemical quality of these films, the electrical and optical properties, and the device functionalities. The 80-nm thick Ti3AlC2 film is highly conducting at room temperature (resistivity of 50 micro ohm-cm), and a very-low-temperature coefficient of resistivity. The ultrathin (2 nm) Ti3AlC2 film has fairly good optical transparency and high conductivity at room temperature (sheet resistance of 735 ohm). Scanning tunneling microscopy reveals the metallic characteristics (with finite density of states at the Fermi level) at room temperature. The metal-semiconductor junction of the p-type Ti3AlC2 film and n-Si show the expected rectification (diode) characteristics, in contrast to the ohmic contact behavior in the case of Ti3AlC2 on p-Si. A triboelectric-nanogenerator-based touch-sensing device, comprising of the Ti3AlC2 film, shows a very impressive peak-to-peak open-circuit output voltage of 80 V. These observations reveal that pulsed laser deposited Ti3AlC2 thin films have excellent potential for applications in multiple domains, such as bottom electrodes, resistors for high-precision measurements, Schottky diodes, ohmic contacts, fairly transparent ultrathin conductors, and next-generation biomechanical touch sensors for energy harvesting.
Effect of Maximum Size of Aggregate on the Behavior of Reinforced Concrete Beams Analyzed using Meso Scale Modeling

In this study, simply supported reinforced concrete (RC) beams were analyzed using the Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM). This is a powerful method that is used for the treatment of discontinuities resulting from the fracture process and crack propagation in concrete. The mesoscale is used in modeling concrete as a two-phasic material of coarse aggregate and cement mortar. Air voids in the cement paste will also be modeled. The coarse aggregate used in the casting of these beams is a rounded aggregate consisting of different maximum sizes. The maximum size is 25 mm in the first model, and in the second model, the maximum size is 20 mm. The compressive strength used in these beams is equal to 26 MPa. The subjects of this study are two RC beams subjected to a two-point loading designed to fail due to flexure. The RC beams under loading were studied in the laboratory as well as numerically. ABAQUS program was used for modeling and analyzing the RC beams. The mesoscale modeling that was used to model the concrete required used a special program using different programs but has not used the ABAQUS program directly. The result of the comparison between the numerical and experimental showed that the mesoscale numerical model gave results that were more approximate to the experimental ones, and the mesoscale modeling of reinforced concrete is most convenient when the maximum size of aggregate is decreased.
Hybrid Solar-RF Energy Harvesting Systems for Electric Operated Wheelchairs

Over the decades, with the advancement of science and technology, wheelchairs have undergone remarkable changes, such as controlling an electrical wheelchair by using brain signals. However, existing electrical wheelchairs still need improvements in terms of energy management. This paper proposes an hybrid Solar-Radio frequency (RF) harvesting system able to supply power for the continuous and effective operation of electrically powered wheelchairs. This system can simultaneously harvest power from RF and solar source that are both available in the surrounding environment. A maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and a boost converter are exclusively employed for the standalone solar system while the standalone RF system is equipped with a 9-stage voltage multiplier (VM). The voltage level for the charging process is obtained by adding the output voltage of each source. In addition, a current booster and a stabilizer are used to reach the required level of current and pin the charging voltage to a stable level, respectively. Simulation results show how the hybrid system is better and more stable when the boost current and stabilizer are used in the charging system. Moreover, we also provide some analytic results to prove the advantages of this system.
Larval morphology of the sesarmid crab, Aratus pisonii (H. Milne Edwards, 1837) (Decapoda, Brachyura, Grapsoidea) from laboratory-reared material

Three ovigerous females of the crab, Aratus pisonii (H. Milne Edwards, 1837) (Sesarmidae) were captured from a coastal lagoon in Mazatlan, Mexico. Larvae were reared in the laboratory from hatching to the megalopa stage. The morphology of the four zoeal stages and the megalopa is described and illustrated. Morphological comparisons are made with previous descriptions of this species from Jamaica and Brazil, and with all known descriptions for the larvae of Armases Abele, 1989, the closest similar genus. Several differences are observed with regard to earlier descriptions of Aratus pisonii, and additional characters, such as the previously undescribed cephalothoracic setation of the larval stages and the mouthparts of the megalopa, are described and illustrated. Trois femelles gravides du crabe Sesarmidae Aratus pisonii (H. Milne Edwards, 1837) (Sesarmidae) ont ete capturees dans une lagune cotiere a Mazatlan, Mexique. Les larves de cette espece ont ete cultivees au laboratoire, depuis leur eclosion jusqu'au stade Megalope. La morphologie des quatre stades Zoes et de la Megalope est decrite et illustree. Une comparaison morphologique avec les descriptions anterieures de cette espece, realisees en Jamaique et au Bresil, est presentee, ainsi qu'une comparaison avec toutes les larves connues des especes de Armases Abele, 1989, le genre le plus proche de Aratus. Plusieurs differences sont notees en comparaison avec les descriptions anterieures de Aratus pisonii. Des caracteristiques supplementaires sont ajoutees, notamment la setation du cephalothorax et des appendices buccaux de la Megalope, non decrits a ce jour.
DDL-SLAM: A Robust RGB-D SLAM in Dynamic Environments Combined With Deep Learning

Visual Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (VSLAM) has developed as the basic ability of robots in past few decades. There are a lot of open-sourced and impressive SLAM systems. However, the majority of the theories and approaches of SLAM systems at present are based on the static scene assumption, which is usually not practical in reality because moving objects are ubiquitous and inevitable under most circumstances. In this paper the DDL-SLAM (Dynamic Deep Learning SLAM) is proposed, a robust RGB-D SLAM system for dynamic scenarios that, based on ORB-SLAM2, adds the abilities of dynamic object segmentation and background inpainting. We are able to detect moving objects utilizing both semantic segmentation and multi-view geometry. Having a static scene map allows inpainting background of the frame which has been obscured by moving objects, therefore the localization accuracy is greatly improved in the dynamic environment. Experiment with a public RGB-D benchmark dataset, the results clarify that DDL-SLAM can significantly enhance the robustness and stability of the RGB-D SLAM system in the highly-dynamic environment.