bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opposite asymmetries of face and trunk and of kissing and hugging, as predicted by the axial twist hypothesis
Authors: de Lussanet Marc HE
Published: March 2019

The contralateral organization of the forebrain and the crossing of the optic nerves in the optic chiasm represent a long-standing conundrum. According to the Axial Twist Hypothesis (ATH) the rostral head and the rest of the body are twisted with respect to each other to form a left-handed half turn. This twist is the result, mainly, of asymmetric, twisted growth in the early embryo. Evolutionary selection tends to restore bilateral symmetry. Since selective pressure will decrease as the organism approaches symmetry, we expected a small control error in the form of a small, residual right-handed twist. We found that the mouth-eyes-nose (rostral head) region shows a left-offset with respect to the ears (posterior head) by up to 0.8° (P<0.01, Bonferroni-corrected). Moreover, this systematic aurofacial asymmetry was larger in young children (on average up to 3°) and reduced with age. Finally, we predicted and found a right-sided bias for hugging (78%) and a left-sided bias for kissing (69%). Thus, all predictions were confirmed by the data. These results are all in support of the ATH, whereas the pattern of results is not explained by existing alternative theories. As of the present results, the ATH is the first theory for the contralateral forebrain and the optic chiasm whose predictions have been tested empirically. We conclude that humans (and all other vertebrates) are fundamentally asymmetric, both in their anatomy and their behavior. This supports the thesis that the approximate bilateral symmetry of vertebrates is a secondary feature, despite their being bilaterians.
Analysis of Volatile Compounds in Probiotic Yogurt during Storage through Solid-phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography
Authors: Tanello Ana Cristina , Souza Silveira Cristine Durante de , Carasek Eduardo , Verruck Silvani , Prudencio Elane Schwinden , Amboni Renata D. M. Castanho
Published: March 2019

Two different yogurts, control and probiotic with Bifidobacterium BB-12 were produced and analyzed for their contents of total solids, proteins, pH, counts of probiotic bacteria, and volatile composition during refrigerated storage for 28 days. The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the extraction of volatile compounds from the probiotic yogurt containing through HS-SPME combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Post-acidification and decrease in protein content were noted in both yogurts during storage. The results showed that the extraction temperature and the addition of salt were statistically the most influential factors for the extraction of higher amounts of volatile compounds. The volatile compounds detected in the probiotic yogurt were 2-butanone, 2,3-butanedione, 2,3-pentanodione, acetone and hexanoic acid. During the 28 days of storage, the only differences noted were between the amounts of 2,3-butanedione, 2,3-pentanodione and hexanoic acid.
Use of Spoon Game in Improving Students’ Language Performance
Authors: Balawag Elangbai K. , Jose Ariel Epan San , Concepcion Maria Gregoria Robles
Published: March 2019

Aims: The main purpose of this study was to determine the experiences of the students in the use of spoon game technique. It also looked into the influence of the technique in the enhancement and improvement of the oral participation of students. Specifically, it sought answer how the spoon game technique was conducted; how it helped improve the oral participation of the students; and what were the suggestions of the students to improve the use of the technique.

Study Design: This study used the qualitative-phenomenological method. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was used to obtain the essential information from the participants. Validated open-ended questions were used to cull the participants’ experiences.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the University of Southern Mindanao for one-semester among the freshmen students enrolled in the Study, Thinking and Speaking Skills.

Methodology: The interview protocol was followed before the conduct of the interview. The participants were grouped into focus groups. The recorded interviews were transcribed, analyzed into themes and core ideas. 

Results: The teachers followed procedures in the conduct of the spoon game technique. The instructions of the game were clearly relayed to the students.  The student-participants believed that the spoon game technique helped improved their oral participation. The technique greatly motivated them to ask questions and clarify issues regarding the topic being discussed; thus, they actively shared ideas. Moreover, they found the technique was fun and interesting.

Conclusion: The problem on oral participation in the classroom can be addressed if language teachers are hands-on and interactive in doing the tasks; if the teacher gives appropriate and clear instructions; if teachers utilize group-work activities; and if teachers listen to the suggestions for improvement of the students.  It is also noteworthy to note that the next time the spoon game is used; the teacher needs to contextualize the questions according to the cognition level of the students and students need to be given reasonable time to think of their answers.
Human Fatigue Characterization and Detection Using the Eyelid State and Kalman Filter
Authors: Asamoah Dominic , Oppong Emmanuel Ofori , Amoako-Yirenkyi Peter , Oppong Stephen Opoku
Published: March 2019

One of the most promising commercial applications of Human Computer Interface is the vision based Human fatigue detection systems. Most methods and algorithms currently rely heavily on movement of the head and the colorization of the eye ball. In this paper, a new algorithm for detecting human fatigue by relying primarily on eyelid movements as a facial feature is proposed. The features of the eye region and eyelid movement which are geometric in nature are processed alongside each other to determine the level of fatigue of a person. Haar classifiers are employed to detect the eye region and eyelid features. The eye region is, however processed to ascertain attributes of eyelid movement of each individual of interest. The eyelids are then detected as either opened, closed or in transition state. The movement or velocity of the eyelid is tracked using a Kalman filtered velocity function. This algorithm calculates a human blink cycle for each individual, and estimates the associated errors of the eye movement due to friction using the Kalman filter. The study has established human blink cycle calculation as a new classifier to characterize human fatigue and the calculation of the movement of eyelid using the Kalman filter in determining the level of fatigue.
Effects of Different Types of Organic Fertilizers on the Nutrients and Anti Nutrients Composition of Amaranthus caudatus and Amaranthus cruentus
Authors: Chechet Kahu Jerry , Charles Umeh Chisom
Published: March 2019

Aims: To evaluate the effect of different types of organic fertilizers on the nutrients and anti nutrients composition of Amaranthus caudatus (Samaru local variety) and Amaranthus cruentus (NH84/452).

Study Design: A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used for the experiment.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was carried out in the nursery of a homestead garden at No 20, Isaiah Balat Street, Sabo GRA, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Methodology: The study consists of seven treatments which includes control (no fertilizer), 5 t ha-1 and 10 t ha-1 poultry manure, 5 t ha-1 and 10 t ha-1 sewage sludge, 35 kg ha-1 and 70 kg ha-1 NPK compound fertilizer and also with two varieties; Amaranthus caudatus (Samaru local variety) and Amaranthus cruentus (NH84/452) with factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) and replicated three times. At maturity, the leaves were harvested and prepared for laboratory analysis for both nutrients and anti-nutrient composition. Proximate composition was determined according to A.O.A.C protocol. Water soluble vitamins were analyzed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) while the metals were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS).

Results: The ash, moisture, fat, protein, fibre, carbohydrate and energy of the two varieties were found in the range of 2.58 - 3.06%, 78.78 - 80.69%, 1.04 - 1.49%, 7.49 - 9.67%, 2.41 - 3.29%, 3.02 - 6.46% and 54.72 - 61.52 Kcal/100 g respectively. The micronutrients including β-carotene, vitamin C, niacin, riboflavin, iron and zinc were found in the range of 4.79 - 6.68, 14.37 - 40.36, 5.97 - 22.15, 8.37 - 27.99, 10.03 - 13.40 and 5.11 – 941 mg/100 g respectively. The anti-nutrients; tannins, phytate, saponins and oxalate were in the range of 0.33 - 0.69, 0.40 - 0.94, 1.29 - 2.30 and 0.53 - 1.01% respectively

Conclusion: Poultry manure provided higher nutrients on the two varieties of Amaranth when compared with sewage sludge and NPK compound fertilizer. While sewage sludge resulted in the plants having higher anti-nutrients. The application of poultry manures at 10 tons/ha is therefore recommended for farmers to use to obtain more nutritious amaranth.
Effect of Two Kinds of Antistaling Agent on the Pigments of Cutting Branch for Cornus alba L.
Authors: Song Yang , Cui Na
Published: March 2019

Aims: The research was aimed to study the effects of antistaling agent on the fresh-keeping of cutting branches in order to provide the foundation on sticks-cutting preservation in production.

Study Design: In order to analyze the function and action mechanism of antistaling agent A(3% sucrose +50mg·L-1 aluminium sulfate + 200mg·L-1 citric acid + 100mg·L-1 GA) and B (3% sucrose + 0.5% benzene propionic acid sodium), we used the Cornus alba L., as materials, observed fresh-keeping life and morphological changes, measured the fresh weight, the contents of chlorophyll, soluble sugar, red pigment and anthocyanin in cutting branchs of Cornus alba L.

Place and Duration of Study: College of Biological Science and Technology, Shenyang Agricultural University, between February 2017 and March 2018.

Methodology: The contents of soluble sugar, chlorophyll, anthocyanin and red pigment in stem bark were determined at 3d, 6d, 9d, 12d and 15d after treatment, respectively. The contents of chlorophyll, red pigment and anthocyanin in cutting branchs of Cornus alba L. were measured by method of spectrophotometer. The content of soluble sugar was determined by anthrone colorimetry.

Results: The effects of antistaling agent A (3% sucrose +50mg·L-1 aluminium sulfate + 200mg·L-1 citric acid + 100mg·L-1 GA) and antistaling agent B (3% sucrose + 0.5% benzene propionic acid sodium) were tested in this paper in order to investigate their effects on contents of chlorophyll, soluble sugar, red pigment and anthocyanin in cutting branchs of Cornus alba L., which provided foundation on sticks-cutting preservation in production. Early spring sticks of Cornus alba L. were used as materials by antistaling agent A and B treatment, respectively, and sterilized water as control. Results showed that contents of chlorophyll and soluable sugar in the antistaling agent A group were higher than those in B group. And the contents of anthocyanin and red pigments in the antistaling agent B group were higher than those in A group. Above all, the antistaling agent B had better preservation effect than the antistaling agent A.

Conclusion: The contents of chlorophyll and soluable sugar in the antistaling agent A group were higher than those in the antistaling agent B group. And the contents of anthocyanin and red pigments in the antistaling agent B group were higher than those in A group. Above all, the antistaling agent B had better preservation effect than the antistaling agent A.
The Impact of Subtropical Indian Ocean Anticyclone over Tasmania Precipitation
Authors: Usmani Bilal Ahmed , . Saqib-Ur-Rehman , Khan Abdul Jamil , Khan Kamran , Hussain Syed Adnan , Zia Syeda Sadia , Siddiqui Tanveer Ahmed
Published: March 2019

Aims: To explore the association between observed frequency of anticyclones over subtropical Indian Ocean (10°S-50°S, 102.5°E-142.5°E) and average autumn rainfall over the districts of Tasmania.

Methodology: We have divided the rainfall amounts over nine districts of Tasmania into three categories (Above average, average and below average rainfall) by using z-scores technique for each autumn (March-May) month for the period of 1951-2016. We have also categorized the calculated frequency of anticyclone over the subtropical Indian Ocean in a similar fashion.

Results: Our analysis suggests inverse association between each category of average rainfall and the corresponding frequency of anticyclones for each month of autumn. This association revealed that during below average rainfall, the high frequencies of anticyclones were occupied over the most of the area of subtropical Indian Ocean that resulted less rainfall in the districts while during above average autumn rainfall, the high frequencies of anticyclones observed in the west of 110°E this enabled more autumn rainfall over the districts. We have also found the negative correlation coefficients between mean sea level pressure over the same domain of Indian Ocean and average rainfall over each district in each month of the autumn (March-May).

Conclusion: The slightly shift of Mean Central Pressure (MCP) to the north from the west coast of Tasmania from March-May enabled the extra-tropical activity of rainfall systems. This causes enhanced rainfall during average and above average rainfall conditions than March-April over nine districts of Tasmania.
Cu (II)-Red Onion Skin Extract-Azo metal Complex - A Potential for Oilfield Applications
Authors: Akaho A. A. , Chukwu U. J. , Akaranta O.
Published: March 2019

Red Onion skin extract (ROSE)- azo compound of 2-aminophenol and Cu (II) metal complex of the azo compound (Cu-APmROSE) were formed and characterized using FT-IR spectroscopy, UV-Visible absorption spectroscopy and Scanning electron microscopy. The IR Spectra showed the values of N=N- stretching frequency of 1512.24cm-1 at 1500 cm-1 in APmROSE. This stretching frequency is absent in the Cu-APmROSE. This is an indication of the involvement of the N=N- bond in coordination to the metal. APmROSE shows an absorption maximum at 512 nm. This band was shifted to 334 nm in Cu-APmROSE. This suggests an interaction between the Cu and the azo compound.
Prevalence of Metabolic Disorder in Adolescent Residing in Al-dawadmi and Shaqra Regions of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alabdullatif Ghaith Saleh Suliman , Alotaibi Hallal Badi Hallal , Deshwali Sanjay Kumar , Arshad Mohammad
Published: March 2019

The recent study was aimed to estimate the prevalence and develop the relationship of the clinical history like diabetes, cardiac disease and vitamin D deficiency and obesity and their impact on metabolic disorders for adolescent residing near Dawadmi and Shaqra region. Two hundred samples (142 Females & 58 Males) were utilized in the study with an age ranging 13-20 and distributed the questionnaire to record the responses. The results exhibited that 38% subjects responded positively for clinical history with cardiac disease, while 70.5 and 47% responded positively for the clinical history with diabetes and vitamin D deficiency. The clinical history with diabetes, cardiac disease and vitamin D deficiency was observed the major risk factors acting in descending order diabetes-cardiac disease-vitamin D deficiency.
Soil Mechanical Resistance Penetration after Fifteen Years with Previous Crops and Tillage Systems and Productivity of Green Corn Cob in Northeast Brazil
Authors: Pedrotti Alceu , Araújo Filho Renisson Neponuceno de , Assunção Sara Julliane Ribeiro , Gomes Filho Raimundo Rodrigues , De Oliveira Fernanda Cristina Caparelli , Holanda Francisco Sandro Rodrigues , Piscoya Victor Casimiro , Filho Moacyr Cunha
Published: March 2019

Conservation systems for less soil movement and when associated with previous crops may reduce the effects of soil compaction. The objective of this work was to evaluate soil mechanical resistance penetration (MRP) in different cropping systems associated with previous corn crop after fifteen years. The experimental design was composed of experimental strips with subdivided plots, combining three soils management systems: CC- conventional cultivation, MC- minimum cultivation and NT- no-tillage, and four species of crops antecedent to maize for the production of commercial ears of green corn. In the determination of soil MRP, the electronic penetrometer (FALKER model SoloTrack PLG 5200) was used, with readings up to a depth of 400 mm. The results showed that there was a significant effect on the MRP values of the soil when submitted to the different cropping systems and previous crops at the end of fifteen years. The lowest MRP values were located in the superficial layers in the CC and MC. The NT cultivar system showed higher MRP values, at depth 0-100 mm. At conditions of tableland, after fifteen years, it was observed that the NT system provides better corn productivity levels combined with lower MRP values along the profile.
Estimation of Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance of Exotic Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Breeding Lines for Short Growth Development
Authors: Sarker Md. Manik , Hassan Lutful , Rashid Md. Mamunur , Islam Syed Nazrul , Ghosh Tilak Kumar , Sultana Sharmin
Published: March 2019

This work aims to study the genetic parameters for yield and yield contributing characters in thirty-two early maturing rice (Oryza sativa L.) lines. The morphological data were analysed by different statistical plant breeding software’s that were reliable and faster in analysis. The line CT 18173-1-9-1-3-6-M had the tallest; IR 82489-594-3-2-2 had the earlier flowering line but BP 10620F-BB4-13-BB8 the early maturing one. The highest effective tillers hill-1 and yield plant-1 was found in BP 10620F-BB4-13-BB8. Number of filled grains panicle-1 and number of unfilled grains panicle-1 exhibited high Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) and Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV). Small differences between GCV and PCV were recorded for all the characters studied which indicated less environmental influence. The characters viz., 1000 seed weight and days to maturity exhibited high heritability and number of filled grains panicle-1 measured high genetic advance. The thirty-two lines were assigned into three clusters, which contained a different number of lines. Among the lines, BP 10620F-BB4-12-BB8 possessed the highest selection score index contrary to IR 79201-49-1-1-1 which had the lowest selection index score. The overall evaluation for the lines revealed that the best line was BP 10620F-BB4-12-BB8 and it can be used for future breeding program or farmer’s field cultivation.
Modified Atmosphere and Refrigeration in Postharvest Conservation of Atemoya cv. Gefner
Authors: Aguiar Maryelle Cristina Souza , Mizobutsi Gisele Polete , Sobral Raquel Rodrigues Soares , Silva Pinheiro Juceliandy Mendes da , Martins Joelma Carvalho , Dos Santos Irani Pereira , Alves Érika Endo , Mizobutsi Edson Hiydu , Aspiazú Ignacio , Da Mota Wagner Ferreira
Published: March 2019

Aims: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the modified atmosphere under refrigeration for 28 days in the Atemoya Gefner.

Study Design: Experiment 1 and 2 was installed in a completely randomized design, in a factorial 1x4 and 2x8, respectively.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted in a cold chamber at the State University of Montes Claros, Brazil, between July and August 2018.

Methodology: In the first, the percentage of fruits that presented cold injury (CI) in unpackaged fruits and stored at 15°C for six days was visually evaluated. In the second experiment two pack were used and stored at 15°C and evaluated the physical and chemical characteristics.

Results: In the first experiment, from the 2nd day 100% of the fruits showed CI that progressed to stage 3 on the 6th day of storage. This result justifies the need to store the atemoya under modified atmosphere under 15°C for 28 days. It was found at the end of 28 days, experiment two, that the packages 1 and 2 showed quality fruits, with characteristics of ripe fruits, with 22 °Brix average values, reduced titrable acidity, light green color peel and good lightness. The pack1 showed better weight maintenance, with 1.54% of fresh weight loss against 2.36% for pack2.

Conclusion: There was a higher solubilization of total sugars and non-reducing sugars in pack1, being this the most indicated for atemoya fruits grown in northern Minas Gerais.
Agronomic Performance of New Potato Genotypes Submitted to Increasing Doses of NPK
Authors: Dos Santos Keli Cristina , Gabardo Gentil Carneiro , Kawakami Jackson , Genú Aline , Passos Sara , Contini Rafael Hermenegildo
Published: March 2019

Aims: Estimate the morphological characteristics of potato genotypes grown with different doses of NPK fertilizer 4-14-8.

Study Design: The experiment was conducted in randomized blocks with subdivided plots and three replicates.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was carried out in the municipality of Guarapuava – PR, Brazil, during the growing seasons of 2013/2014 and 2014/2015.

Methodology: In the main plots the doses of 0, 2, 4 and 6 t ha-1 of NPK fertilizer 4-14-8 were arranged and in the subplots the genotypes (Ágata, BRS Camilla and clone C0205). Were evaluated: The leaf area index (LAI), percentage of light absorption, number of tubers, fresh mass of tubers. In the first agricultural year the evaluations were performed at 25 and 45 days after the emergency (DAE) and in the second seasson at 28 and 48 DAE. Interaction between potato genotypes and fertilizer rates for LAI was observed at 45 DAE in 2013/14 and absorbance at 25 DAE in 2013/14. For the seasson 2013/14, the genotypes showed a significant difference for LAI, absorbance, number of tubers and fresh mass of tubers at 25, LAI and fresh mass of tubers at 45 DAE, clone C0205 presented the largest differences for these characteristics. Fertilizer doses did not influence LAI, absorbance at 25 DAE and 45 DAE in 2013/14 and, at 2014/15 at 28 DAE, there was no response for tuber number and LAI, and at 48 DAE for tuber number, absorbance. There was no significant interaction between fertilizer doses and potato plant genotypes for the data on number of primary stems and number of secondary stems in both seassons The genotypes responded to NPK fertilizer doses 4-14-8 for LAI, and clone C0205 presented the best results. The genotypes responded to the light absorption percentage, with C0205 presenting the best results, so that plants with greater leaf area presented greater light absorption. The genotype C0205 presents greater productive capacity when compared to the Agata and Camila genotypes, being evident the greater number and fresh mass of tubers produced.
Comparative Risk of Cardiovascular Events With Biologic and Synthetic Disease‐Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Singh Siddharth , Fumery Mathurin , Singh Abha G. , Singh Namrata , Prokop Larry J. , Dulai Parambir S. , Sandborn William J. , Curtis Jeffrey R.
Published: March 2019

Objective

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the comparative effects of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi), non‐TNFi biologics, and conventional synthetic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) on cardiovascular risk in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Using a systematic search through May 8, 2018, we included 14 observational studies in adults with RA treated with TNFi, non‐TNFi biologics, tofacitinib, or csDMARDs, reporting the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) or stroke. Only studies reporting active comparators were included. We performed random effects meta‐analysis and estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

Results

As compared to TNFi, tocilizumab was associated with a decreased risk of MACE (OR 0.59 [95% CI 0.34–1.00]), whereas csDMARDs were associated with an increased risk of MACE (csDMARDs including methotrexate OR 1.45 [95% CI 1.09–1.93]; without methotrexate OR 2.57 [95% CI 1.32–5.00]), without heterogeneity (I2 = 0%); there was no difference in risk of MACE between abatacept and TNFi (OR 0.89 [95% CI 0.71–1.11]), or between tocilizumab and abatacept (OR 0.81 [0.57–1.16]). Based on 11 cohorts (n = 135,053 patients), as compared to TNFi, csDMARDs were associated with an increased risk of stroke (OR 1.17 [95% CI 1.01–1.36]); there was no difference in risk of stroke between different biologics (tocilizumab versus TNFi OR 0.98 [95% CI 0.59–1.61]; abatacept versus TNFi OR 1.08 [0.86–1.34]; tocilizumab versus abatacept OR 0.73 [95% CI 0.39–1.38]), without heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). No comparative studies on cardiovascular risk with tofacitinib were identified.

Conclusion

Based on meta‐analysis, as compared to TNFi, tocilizumab may be associated with a reduced risk of MACE, whereas csDMARDs may be associated with an increased risk of MACE and stroke.
Strategies for Stabilizing DNA Nanostructures to Biological Conditions
Authors: Stephanopoulos Nicholas
Published: March 2019

DNA is one of the most promising building blocks for creating functional nanostructures for applications in biology and medicine. However, these highly programmable nanomaterials (e.g., DNA origami) often require supraphysiological salt concentrations for stability, are degraded by nuclease enzymes, and can elicit an inflammatory response. Herein, three key strategies for stabilizing DNA nanostructures to conditions required for biological applications are outlined: 1) tuning the buffer conditions or nanostructure design; 2) covalently crosslinking the strands that make up the structures; and 3) coating the structures with polymers, proteins, or lipid bilayers. Taken together, these approaches greatly expand the chemical diversity and future applicability of DNA nanotechnology both in vitro and in vivo.
Expression of new genes in vertebrate tooth development and p63 signaling
Authors: Rostampour Nasim , Appelt Cassy M. , Abid Aunum , Boughner Julia C.
Published: March 2019

Background

p63 is an evolutionarily ancient transcription factor essential to vertebrate tooth development. Our recent gene expression screen comparing wild‐type and “toothless” p63−/− mouse embryos implicated in tooth development several new genes that we hypothesized act downstream of p63 in dental epithelium, where p63 is also expressed.

Results

Via in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, we probed mouse embryos (embryonic days 10.5‐14.5) and spotted gar fish embryos (14 days postfertilization) for these newly linked genes, Cbln1, Cldn23, Fermt1, Krt15, Pltp and Prss8, which were expressed in mouse and gar dental epithelium. Loss of p63 altered expression levels but not domains. Expression was comparable between murine upper and lower tooth organs, implying conserved gene functions in maxillary and mandibular dentitions. Our meta‐analysis of gene expression databases supported that these genes act within a p63‐driven gene regulatory network important to tooth development in mammals and more evolutionary ancient vertebrates (fish, amphibians).

Conclusions

Cbln1, Cldn23, Fermt1, Krt15, Pltp, and Prss8 were expressed in mouse and fish dental epithelium at placode, bud, and/or cap stages. We theorize that these genes participate in cell‐cell adhesion, cell polarity, and extracellular matrix signaling to support dental epithelium integrity, folding, and epithelial‐mesenchymal cross talk during tooth development.
A forecasting analysis of risk‐neutral equity and Treasury volatilities
Authors: González‐Urteaga Ana , Nieto Belén , Rubio Gonzalo
Published: March 2019

This paper employs equity (VIX) and Treasury (MOVE) risk‐neutral volatilities to assess their relative forecasting performance with respect to future real activity, stock and Treasury excess returns, and aggregate risk factors. The in‐sample evidence suggests that the square of VIX tends to dominate the square of MOVE. Out‐of‐sample predictive analysis, performed as a horse race between equity and Treasury risk‐neutral volatilities, shows that, contrary to earlier results, the square of VIX and MOVE tend to complement each other.
Slovenian health care system and possibilities for freelance medical specialists
Authors: Kušar Boštjan , Smrke Dragica Maja , Bernik Mojca
Published: March 2019

Introduction

The purpose of the article is to present the results of the research aimed at establishing the current situation in the health care system in Slovenia and verifying whether the possibility and support exist for the introduction of a freelance medical specialist.

Methods

We conducted a survey among physicians and health care managers. The sample framework covered the total population of physicians and health care managers in Slovenia; surveys were completed by 318 physicians and 52 health care managers.

Results

The results of the quantitative research analysis provided an essential basis for and feedback information about possible areas for improving the current state of the health care system. The conclusions of semistructured interviews also considerably contributed to the elaboration of the freelance medical specialist proposal.

Conclusion

The findings of the research point out the need for changes in the Slovenian health care system and the support of the research participants in the implementation of the freelance medical specialist proposal. In the participants' opinions, the possibility of introducing freelance medical specialists would change the work organisation, particularly in terms of additional formalised possibilities for practising in the medical profession, which would further contribute to the overall improvement of the health care system.
An automatic approach for rill network extraction to measure rill erosion by terrestrial and low‐cost unmanned aerial vehicle photogrammetry
Authors: Di Stefano Costanza , Palmeri Vincenzo , Pampalone Vincenzo
Published: March 2019

For an erosion event (October 2016) occurred at the Sparacia experimental area (Southern Italy), both terrestrial and low‐altitude aerial surveys were carried out by consumer grade camera and quadcopter (low‐cost unmanned aerial vehicle [UAV]) to measure rill erosion on two plots with steepness of 22% and 26%. Applying the structure from motion (SfM) technique, the three‐dimensional digital terrain models (3D‐DTMs) and the quasi three‐dimensional models (2.5D‐digital elevation model [DEM]) were obtained by the two surveys. Furthermore, 3D‐DTM and DEM were built using the available aerial photographs (166) and adding 40 terrestrial photographs. For the first time, the convergence index was applied to high‐resolution rill data for extracting the rill network, and a subsequent separation into contributing and non‐contributing rills was carried out. The comparison among the three surveys (terrestrial, UAV, and UAV + terrestrial) was developed using two morphometric parameters of the rill network (drainage density and drainage frequency). Moreover, using as reference the weight of sediment stored on the tanks located downstream of the plots, the reliability of soil loss measurement by 3D models was tested. For both contributing and non‐contributing rills, the morphometric parameters were higher for the terrestrial than for UAV and UAV + terrestrial surveys. For both plots, SfM always provided reliable soil loss measurements, which were affected by errors ranging from −8% to 13%. Although the applied technique used a low‐cost UAV and a consumer grade camera, the obtained results demonstrated that a reliable estimate of rill erosion can be obtained in an area of interest.
Quality of life in survivors of childhood brain tumour and the association of children's diseases on quality of their parents life
Authors: Musiol Katarzyna , Bulska Weronika , Brożek Paulina , Oślizło Barbara , Ryzak Stella , Dubiel Justyna , Sobol‐Milejska Grażyna
Published: March 2019

Objective

Evaluation of children's quality of life (QoL) after finished brain tumour treatment and the association of children's diseases on quality of their parents' life.

Methods

The study group was consisted of 46 children after brain tumour treatment (aged 4, 5, to 29 years old). The control group was composed of 104 students of primary, secondary, and high schools. One hundred fifty (104 + 46) parents were included in the study. Standardised QoL questionnaires (PEDsQL‐4.0, WHOQOL‐BREF) were used. Survivors' QoL was assessed from patients' and their parents' point of view, also the association of children's diseases on quality of their parents' life was estimated.

Results

QoL of children after brain tumour treatment was lower than in the control group according to the children (P < 0.001) and their parents (P < 0.001). The survivors worst rated their ability to social functioning (P < 0.0010) and physical functioning (P < 0.001) in comparison with self‐assessment of healthy children. According to their parents, the functioning of children in all zones was worse than in the control group, mostly in social (P < 0.001) and physical sphere (P < 0.001), too. QoL of children with low‐grade tumour was comparable with QoL of children with high‐grade tumour). QoL of survivors' caregivers in study was higher than QoL of parents of control groups (P = 0.023).

Conclusions

The quality of patients' life after brain tumour treatment is lower in comparison with healthy children. QoL of the parents of survivor is higher than the QoL of healthy children parents. The assessment of QoL of children after brain tumour treatment should be an inherent element of health monitoring.
A theoretical insight into the role of counter anions and their interactions in nitropentaamminecobalt(III) toward linkage isomerism‐induced photochemical motion
Authors: Muya Jules Tshishimbi , Meher Biswa Ranjan , Sahoo Subash Chandra , Chung Hoeil
Published: March 2019

Density functional theory (B3LYP, B3LYP‐D3, wB97XD, M062X, and M06L) and ab initio methods (MP2 and CCSD(T)) in conjunction with 6‐31+G(d,p) and LanL2DZ were employed to investigate the interaction energies between [Co(NH3)5NO2]2+ linkage isomers and chloride and nitrate in both gas phase and solid state. The nature of the chemical bonding has been analyzed by means of the atoms in molecules, electron density shift, natural bond orbitals, symmetry adapted perturbation theory, and energy decomposition analysis. The electronic structures of the two lowest laying singlet states (So and S1) of [Co(NH3)5NO2](NO3)Cl isomers were also investigated using CASSCF(6,6) with LanL2DZ and 6‐31G(d) basis sets. Our results show that [Co(NH3)5NO2]2+ linkage isomers interact more strongly with chloride than nitrate. The structures of [Co(NH3)5NO2](NO3)Cl linkage isomers and their relative stabilities were examined in gas phase and in solid state and confirmed the nitro‐complex as the most stable following by a viable intermediate endo‐complex. Study of the nitro‐nitrito linkage isomerization in [Co(NH3)5NO2](NO3)Cl revealed that anions form strong electrostatic bonds with [Co(NH3)5NO2]2+ leading to decrease in an activation energy compared to the [Co(NH3)5ONO]2+ isomers. A concerted action of ionic interactions and hydrogen bonds are suspected of regulating the isomerization in solid state. Assessment of various DFT methods with respect to CCSD(T) suggests M062X suitable method for [Co(NH3)5NO2](NO3)Cl linkage‐isomerization study. Potential energy surface calculations at the CASSCF/6‐31G(d) level of theory shows that the conical intersection (S1/So) might play an important role in the photoisomerization of [Co(NH3)5NO2](NO3)Cl.
Concise Review: Targeting Cancer Stem Cells and Their Supporting Niche Using Oncolytic Viruses
Authors: Crupi Mathieu J.F. , Bell John C. , Singaravelu Ragunath
Published: March 2019

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have the capacity to self-renew and differentiate to give rise to heterogenous cancer cell lineages in solid tumors. These CSC populations are associated with metastasis, tumor relapse, and resistance to conventional anticancer therapies. Here, we focus on the use of oncolytic viruses (OVs) to target CSCs as well as the OV-driven interferon production in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that can repress CSC properties. We explore the ability of OVs to deliver combinations of immune-modulating therapeutic transgenes, such as immune checkpoint inhibitor antibodies. In particular, we highlight the advantages of virally encoded bi-specific T cell engagers (BiTEs) to not only target cell-surface markers on CSCs, but also tumor-associated antigens on contributing components of the surrounding TME and other cancer cells. We also highlight the crucial role of combination anticancer treatments, evidenced by synergy of OV-delivered BiTEs and chimeric-antigen receptor T cell therapy. Stem Cells  2019;37:716–723
Biνo phenomenology at the LHC
Authors: Gehrlein Julia , Ipek Seyda , Fox Patrick J.
Published: March 2019

Abstract

We study the LHC constraints on an R-symmetric SUSY model, where the neutrino masses are generated through higher dimensional operators involving the pseudo-Dirac bino, named biνo. We consider a particle spectrum where the squarks are heavier than the lightest neutralino, which is a pure biνo. The biνo is produced through squark decays and it subsequently decays to a combination of jets and leptons, with or without missing energy, via its mixing with the Standard Model neutrinos. We recast the most recent LHC searches for jets+ "Image missing" with

$$ \sqrt{s}=13 $$

s

=
13

TeV and

$$ \mathrm{\mathcal{L}} $$

ℒ

= 36 fb−1 of data to determine the constraints on the squark and biνo masses in this model. We find that squarks as light as 350 GeV are allowed if the biνo is lighter than 150 GeV and squarks heavier than 950 GeV are allowed for any biνo mass. We also present forecasts for the LHC with

$$ \sqrt{s}=13 $$

s

=
13

TeV and

$$ \mathrm{\mathcal{L}} $$

ℒ

= 300 fb−1 and show that squarks up to 1150 GeV can be probed.
The Benefits of Using a Network of Superconducting Gravimeters to Monitor and Study Active Volcanoes
Authors: Carbone Daniele , Cannavò Flavio , Greco Filippo , Reineman Richard , Warburton Richard J.
Published: March 2019

We present results from a mini‐array of three iGrav superconducting gravimeters (SGs) at Mount Etna. This is the first network of SGs ever installed on an active volcano. Continuous gravity measurements at active volcanoes are mostly accomplished with spring gravimeters that can be operated even under harsh field conditions. Nevertheless, these instruments do not provide reliable continuous measurements over periods longer than a few days due to the instrumental drift and artifacts driven by ambient parameters. SGs are free from these instrumental effects and thus allow to track even small gravity changes (1–2 μGal) over a wide range of time scales (minutes to months). However, SGs need host facilities with main electricity and a large installation surface, implying that they cannot be deployed in close proximity to the active structures of tall volcanoes. At Mount Etna the three iGrav SGs were installed at distances from the summit active craters ranging between 3.5 and 15 km. Despite the relatively unfavorable position of the installation sites, we show that these instruments can detect meaningful (i.e., volcano‐related) changes that would otherwise remain hidden, like, for example, the weak gravity signature (within a few μGal) of gas buildup at intermediate depth in the plumbing system of Etna, during noneruptive intervals. Our results prove that iGrav SGs are powerful tools to monitor and study active volcanoes and can provide unique information on the bulk processes driving volcanic activity.
Comment on “On the Relationship Between Probabilistic and Deterministic Skills in Dynamical Seasonal Climate Prediction”
Authors: Tippett Michael K.
Published: March 2019

Yang et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1029/2017JD028002) derived an integral form for the relation between the resolution component of the Brier skill score and anomaly correlation for joint‐Gaussian‐distributed forecasts and observations. The purpose of this comment is (i) to connect those findings with other studies that have examined theoretical relations between probabilistic and deterministic skill and (ii) to provide a simple closed‐form approximation for the relation.
Using Bayesian Networks for Sensitivity Analysis of Complex Biogeochemical Models
Authors: Dai Heng , Chen Xingyuan , Ye Ming , Song Xuehang , Hammond Glenn , Hu Bill , Zachara John M.
Published: March 2019

Sensitivity analysis is a vital tool in numerical modeling to identify important parameters and processes that contribute to the overall uncertainty in model outputs. We developed a new sensitivity analysis method to quantify the relative importance of uncertain model processes that contain multiple uncertain parameters. The method is based on the concepts of Bayesian networks (BNs) to account for complex hierarchical uncertainty structure of a model system. We derived a new set of sensitivity indices using the methodology of variance‐based global sensitivity analysis with the Bayesian inference. The framework is capable of representing the detailed uncertainty information of a complex model system using BNs and affords flexible grouping of different uncertain inputs given their characteristics and dependency structures. We have implemented the method on a real‐world biogeochemical model at the groundwater‐surface water interface within the Hanford Site's 300 Area. The uncertainty sources of the model were first grouped into forcing scenario and three different processes based on our understanding of the complex system. The sensitivity analysis results indicate that both the reactive transport and groundwater flow processes are important sources of uncertainty for carbon‐consumption predictions. Within the groundwater flow process, the structure of geological formations is more important than the permeability heterogeneity within a given geological formation. Our new sensitivity analysis framework based on BNs offers substantial flexibility for investigating the importance of combinations of interacting uncertainty sources in a hierarchical order, and it is expected to be applicable to a wide range of multiphysics models for complex systems.
Reply to Comment by Michael K. Tippett on “On the Relationship Between Probabilistic and Deterministic Skills in Dynamical Seasonal Climate Prediction”
Authors: Yang Dejian , Yang Xiu‐Qun , Ye Dan , Sun Xuguang , Fang Jiabei , Chu Cuijiao , Feng Tao , Jiang Yiquan , Liang Jin , Ren Xuejuan , Zhang Yaocun , Tang Youmin
Published: March 2019

Tippett (2019, https://doi.org/10.1029/2018JD029345) provides an insightful comment on the theoretical consideration part of Yang et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1029/2017JD028002), which studied the relationship between probabilistic and deterministic skills in dynamical seasonal climate prediction. The author connects the theoretical finding of Yang et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1029/2017JD028002) with some previous studies on this topic and further provide a simple‐form approximation to the derived theoretical relation in Yang et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1029/2017JD028002). However, the author also indicates the difference between the considerations in Yang et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1029/2017JD028002) and the previous studies. In this reply, we present a detailed explanation to the readers of the difference between these considerations.
Enhanced reactive CO2 species formation via V2O5-promoted Ni/KCC-1 for low temperature activation of CO2 methanation
Authors: Shahul Hamid Muhamed Yusuf , Abdul Jalil Aishah , Abdul Rahman Anis Farhana , Tuan Abdullah Tuan Amran
Published: March 2019

Incorporation of V2O5 on Ni/KCC-1 catalysts enhanced CO2 adsorption and activation through additional basic sites and more exposed Ni sites.
Photostable 3D heterojunction photoanode made of ZnO nanosheets coated onto TiO2 nanowire arrays for photoelectrochemical solar hydrogen generation
Authors: Han Hongsong , Wang Wenzhong , Yao Lizhen , Hao Chenchun , Liang Yujie , Fu Junli , Zeng Pengbo
Published: March 2019

Applications of single-phase TiO2 and ZnO in the field of photoelectrochemical (PEC) solar hydrogen generation are limited by their high recombination rate of photogenerated charge carriers.
Photophysical properties and application in live cell imaging of B,B-fluoro-perfluoroalkyl BODIPYs
Authors: Taniguchi Atsuhiko , Sawazaki Taka , Shimizu Yusuke , Sohma Youhei , Kanai Motomu
Published: March 2019

B,B-Fluoro-perfluoroalkyl BODIPYs 2 (R = CF3) and 3 (R = C2F5) exhibited higher photo- and chemical stability than B,B-difluoro-BODIPY 1.
Interfacial nickel nitride/sulfide as a bifunctional electrode for highly efficient overall water/seawater electrolysis
Authors: Zhao Yongqiang , Jin Bo , Vasileff Anthony , Jiao Yan , Qiao Shi-Zhang
Published: March 2019

Simple methods for fabricating highly active and stable interfacial bifunctional electrocatalysts for water electrolysis are essential for hydrogen production.
SrCdSnQ4 (Q = S and Se): infrared nonlinear optical chalcogenides with mixed NLO-active and synergetic distorted motifs
Authors: Lin Yang-Jie , Liu Bin-Wen , Ye Run , Jiang Xiao-Ming , Yang Long-Qi , Zeng Hui-Yi , Guo Guo-Cong
Published: March 2019

Two new infrared (IR) nonlinear optical (NLO) chalcogenides, SrCdSnQ4 (Q = S and Se) (1 and 2), were obtained by mixing NLO-active metal chalcogenides and d10 metal tetrahedral motifs in an alkali metal-containing system.
Reflectionless triple‐band BPF by reused even‐mode resonances of multi‐mode resonator
Authors: Cao Zilan , Bi Xiaojun , Xu Qinfen
Published: March 2019

A novel reflectionless triple‐band bandpass filter (RTBPF) with compact structure and high controllability is proposed by combing the reused multi‐mode resonator (MMR) with a coupled‐line based absorptive network. The MMR is coupled to feeding lines to share its even‐mode resonating points as transmission poles (TPs) in bandpass branch and transmission zeros (TZs) in bandstop branch. By employing the coupled‐line based absorptive network, additional TZs and TPs are obtained in bandstop branch. Since these resonances in bandpass branch and the absorptive network are controlled independently, the bandwidth and centre frequency of the RTBPF can be tuned flexibly. The implemented RTBPF demonstrates a minimum insertion loss of 1.68 dB@2.4 GHz, 1.65 dB@3.2 GHz, 1.5 dB@4.3 GHz, three absorption peaks of − 6, −7 and −8 dB from dc up to 6 GHz. The overall circuit size is 0.22 λg2.
Isolation improvement of UWB MIMO antenna utilising molecule fractal structure
Authors: Rajkumar S. , Anto Amala A. , Selvan K.T.
Published: March 2019

A compact four‐element UWB MIMO antenna is proposed and its characteristics are investigated. The proposed antenna has a hexagon molecule‐shaped fractal structure as its radiating element. The antenna elements are placed orthogonally to each other in order to yield good isolation, without any additional decoupling structure. The band rejection in WLAN band is attained by etching a C‐shaped slot on each radiating element. The antenna has a compact size of 40 × 40 × 1.6 mm3 and exhibits stable omni‐directional radiation pattern. In addition, it shows an acceptable impedance bandwidth (S11 < −10 dB) in the range 2.4–10.6 GHz with an isolation better than −20 dB over the UWB range. The performance of the proposed antenna is calculated in terms of antenna characteristics and MIMO parameters. The isolation level in‐between the elements is found to be reasonable for MIMO application. The simulated and measured results are in good accord which makes the antenna a suitable candidate for massive MIMO and high‐density packaging applications.