bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The case of CAUSE: neurobiological mechanisms for grounding an abstract concept
Authors: Pulvermüller Friedemann
Published: June 2018

How can we understand causal relationships and how can we understand words such as ‘cause’? Some theorists assume that the underlying abstract concept is given to us, and that perceptual correlation provides the relevant hints towards inferring causation from perceived real-life events. A different approach emphasizes the role of actions and their typical consequences for the emergence of the concept of causation and the application of the related term. A model of causation is proposed that highlights thefamily resemblancebetween causal actions and postulates that symbols are necessary forbinding together the different partially shared semantic features of subsetsof causal actions and their goals. Linguistic symbols are proposed to play a key role in binding the different subsets of semantic features of the abstract concept. The model is spelt out at the neuromechanistic level of distributed cortical circuits and the cognitive functions they carry. The model is discussed in light of behavioural and neuroscience evidence, and questions for future research are highlighted. In sum, taking causation as a concrete example, I argue that abstract concepts and words can be learnt and grounded in real-life interaction, and that the neurobiological mechanisms realizing such abstract semantic grounding are within our grasp.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Varieties of abstract concepts: development, use and representation in the brain'.
Communicating abstract meaning: concepts revealed in words and gestures
Authors: Zdrazilova Lenka , Sidhu David M. , Pexman Penny M.
Published: June 2018

Abstract words refer to concepts that cannot be directly experienced through our senses (e.g.
truth
,
morality
). How we ground the meanings of abstract words is one of the deepest problems in cognitive science today. We investigated this question in an experiment in which 62 participants were asked to communicate the meanings of words (20 abstract nouns, e.g.
impulse
; 10 concrete nouns, e.g.
insect
) to a partner without using the words themselves (the taboo task). We analysed the speech and associated gestures that participants used to communicate the meaning of each word in the taboo task. Analysis of verbal and gestural data yielded a number of insights. When communicating about the meanings of abstract words, participants' speech referenced more people and introspections. In contrast, the meanings of concrete words were communicated by referencing more objects and entities. Gesture results showed that when participants spoke about abstract word meanings their speech was accompanied by more metaphorical and beat gestures, and speech about concrete word meanings was accompanied by more iconic gestures. Taken together, the results suggest that abstract meanings are best captured by a model that allows dynamic access to multiple representation systems.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Varieties of abstract concepts: development, use and representation in the brain’.
Grounding evaluative concepts
Authors: Fingerhut Joerg , Prinz Jesse J.
Published: June 2018

Evaluative concepts qualify as abstract because they seem to go beyond what is given in experience. This is especially clear in the case of moral concepts. Justice, for example, has no fixed appearance. Less obviously, aesthetic concepts may also qualify as abstract. The very same sensory input can be regarded as beautiful by one person and ugly by another. Artistic success can also transcend sensory accessible features. Here, we focus on moral badness and aesthetic goodness and argue that both can be grounded in emotional responses. Emotions, in turn, are grounded in bodily perceptions, which correspond to action tendencies. When we conceptualize something as good or bad (whether in the moral or aesthetic domain), we experience our bodily responses to that thing. The moral and aesthetic domains are distinguished by the emotions that they involve.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Varieties of abstract concepts: development, use and representation in the brain’.
Feedback Regulation between Initiation and Maturation Networks Orchestrates the Chromatin Dynamics of Epidermal Lineage Commitment
Authors: Li Lingjie , Wang Yong , Torkelson Jessica L. , Shankar Gautam , Pattison Jillian M. , Zhen Hanson H. , Duren Zhana , Fang Fengqin , Melo Sandra P. , Piekos Samantha N. , Li Jiang , Liaw Eric J. , Chen Lang , Li Rui , Wernig Marius , Wong Wing H. , Chang Howard Y. , Oro Anthony E.
Published: June 2018

Tissue development results from lineage-specific transcription factors (TF) programming a dynamic chromatin landscape through progressive cell fate transitions. Here, we interrogate the epigenomic landscape during epidermal differentiation and create an inference network that ranks the coordinate effects of TF-accessible regulatory element-target gene expression triplets on lineage commitment. We discover two critical transition periods: surface ectoderm initiation and keratinocyte maturation, and identify TFAP2C and p63 as lineage initiation and maturation factors, respectively. Surprisingly, we find that TFAP2C, and not p63, is sufficient to initiate surface ectoderm differentiation, with TFAP2C-initiated progenitor cells capable of maturing into functional keratinocytes. Mechanistically, TFAP2C primes the surface ectoderm chromatin landscape and induces p63 expression and binding sites, thus allowing maturation factor p63 to positively auto-regulate its expression and close a subset of the TFAP2C-initiated early program. Our work provides a general framework to infer TF networks controlling chromatin transitions that will facilitate future regenerative medicine advances.
Absorption, refraction and scattering retrieval in X-ray analyzer-based imaging
Authors: Wang Zhili , Liu Dalin , Zhang Jin , Huang Wanxia , Yuan Qingxi , Gao Kun , Wu Zhao
Published: June 2018

A three-image algorithm is proposed in order to retrieve the absorption, refraction and ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering (USAXS) properties of the object in X-ray analyzer-based imaging. Based on the Gaussian fitting to the rocking curve, the novel algorithm is theoretically derived and presented, and validated by synchrotron radiation experiments. Compared with multiple-image radiography, this algorithm only requires a minimum of three intensity measurements, and is therefore advantageous in terms of simplified acquisition procedure and reduced data collection times, which are especially important for specific applications such as in vivo imaging and phase tomography. Moreover, the retrieval algorithm can be specialized to particular cases where some degree of a priori knowledge on the object is available, potentially reducing the minimum number of intensity measurements to two. Furthermore, the effect of angular mis-alignment on the accuracy of the retrieved images was theoretically investigated, which can be of use in image interpretation and optimization of the data acquisition procedure.
Benchmarking the logistics management implementation using Delphi and fuzzy DEMATEL
Authors: Mangla Sachin Kumar , Luthra Sunil , Jakhar Suresh Kumar , Tyagi Mohit , Narkhede Balkrishna Eknath
Published: June 2018

Purpose

From last few decades, logistics management (LM) constitutes a global concern among organization’s supply chain (SC) to improve their business effectiveness. The purpose of this paper is to uncover and analyze the critical factors (CFs) related to the implementation of effective LM concept and benchmark the SC performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The most common (16) CFs were identified and selected through literature and use of the Delphi method. Subsequently, the selected most common CFs were analyzed to distinguish their causal relations using the fuzzy Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) technique under unclear surroundings. A case example of Indian Logistics Company is also discussed to reveal the practical applicability of the research.

Findings

Provision of the effective information communication and technological developments in the system and Management dedication, support and involvement CFs are found to have the top most influences in the effective implementation of LM. This paper also groups the CFs into cause and effect relationship which provides valuable insights for analyzing the factors in successful implementation of LM.

Practical implications

This work attempts to understand the different CFs, their relative position and the importance rating in the system, due to which, managers can differentiate the factor which greatly affects the concepts of implementing LM, and thus, improvements can be made accordingly.

Originality/value

First, this work offers 16 CFs to LM implementation from a SC scenario. Second, in the context of contributing to the theory, the combined Delphi and fuzzy DEMATEL-based model is provided that helps in managing the logistic related issues effectively.
Evaluating the key performance indicators for supply chain information system implementation using IPA model
Authors: Ganguly Kunal , Rai Siddharth Shankar
Published: June 2018

Purpose

To enhance the transparency of the supply chain and ensure proper dissemination of information among the supply chain members in a timely manner, more and more companies are implementing supply chain information system (SCIS). Often the challenge among the organizations is how to go for a proper SCIS implementation and to identify the key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the SCIS. The purpose of this paper is to provide a framework to evaluate the KPIs for SCIS of SCISs implementation from user’s perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, 16 KPIs were identified based on extensive literature survey. A fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) model is constructed to measure the users’ perceived importance and satisfaction for the KPIs. Subsequently, based on these two measurements, an importance-performance analysis (IPA) model along with a customer satisfaction attitude (SA) index is developed to categorize and prioritize the KPIs. As an empirical study, SCIS users across five industries belonging to different sectors were investigated to validate the model.

Findings

An IPA model along with a customer SA index is developed based on a fuzzy AHP model to evaluate the KPIs and provide the priorities of their improvement. Based on this result, some management implications and suggestions are proposed.

Research limitations/implications

The study was limited to five organizations. More representative samples which can be sector specific can ensure better confirmation of the empirical results.

Originality/value

The KPIs identified in the research indicate the nature and dynamics of a complex SCIS implementation. It can serve as a checklist of areas that require attention when implementing a SCIS. The KPIs are presented through grouping in a systemic way. The development of the SAs in IPA model using fuzzy AHP is a novel approach.
Banking on foreign currency accounts: evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Ong Hway Boon
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study how the foreign currency account (FCA) is affected by the domestic fixed deposit (FD) rate, the FCA rate, the expected exchange rate and exchange rate risk.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyses the causal relationship between the domestic FD rate, the FCA rate, the expected exchange rate on a set of foreign currency deposits and exchange rate volatility, based on the theory of portfolio choice. Based on the theory, the panel vector autoregressive regression of fully modified ordinary least squares and dynamic ordinary least squares are modelled.

Findings

There is no cointegrating relationship for the three-month FCA deposits, the domestic FD rate, the FCA rate and the expected exchange rate. Only the six-month FCA business deposits are affected by the domestic FD rate, the FCA rate and the expected exchange rate. The FCA depositors are not affected by exchange rate volatility.

Research limitations/implications

This study is conducted based on the FCA rate quoted by the leading commercial banks in Malaysia, Maybank. Thus, the FCA rate is used as a proxy for the FCA rate of commercial banks in Malaysia.

Originality/value

Individual depositors have to save in more than the three-month FCA to realise their expected return. For individuals, the FCA deposit is not an alternative choice to domestic FD. Exporters may use the FCA deposit to finance their foreign purchases to save the cost of foreign exchange conversion but it is still not an appropriate hedging tool against foreign exchange fluctuations as compared to the existing forward foreign exchange facility.
Breach or bridge your career? Understanding the relationship between career plateau and internal employability
Authors: Lin Yi-chun , Chen Angela Shin-yih , Lai Yu-ting
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the impact of career plateau (hierarchical and job-content plateau) on internal employability, and to investigate psychological contract breach as a moderator on the relationship between career plateau (hierarchical and job-content plateau) and internal employability.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by distributing paper-based questionnaires to 521 workers in private banking sectors in Taiwan. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to examine the results of the relationships.

Findings

The results supported the idea that career plateau (hierarchical and job-content plateaus) could be a significant antecedent of internal employability. Psychological contract breach significantly moderated the negative relationship between career plateau (hierarchical and job-content plateau) and internal employability. Specifically, the negative relationship between career plateau and internal employability will be stronger for employees who perceive a higher level of psychological contract breach.

Practical implications

These findings can help human resource practitioners gain a better understanding of the value of applicable approaches as an influence on a plateaued employee’s perception of internal employability, and to facilitate a positive employer–employee relationship, which could foster both a successful career for an individual and a prosperous performance for the organization that employs them.

Originality/value

Career plateau have been aroused variety issues in HR practice, but employability and psychological contract breach have barely been discussed with career plateau. This study empirically establishes the correlation between career plateau and internal employability as well as shown that psychological contract breach would decrease the plateaued individual’s willingness to stay in the current organization. Thus, the career plateau may provide organizations with a helpful perspective on one’s career development. Building substantial relationships between employees and employers lead to better human capital for organizations as it deals with rapidly changes in the real world.
Plant demographic and functional responses to management intensification: A long‐term study in a Mediterranean rangeland
Authors: Garnier Eric , Fayolle Adeline , Navas Marie‐Laure , Damgaard Christian , Cruz Pablo , Hubert Daniel , Richarte Jean , Autran Paul , Leurent Corentin , Violle Cyrille
Published: June 2018

Understanding how functional traits, which are key for plant functioning, relate to demographic parameters of populations is central to tackle pending issues in plant ecology such as the forecast of the fate of populations and communities in a changing world, the quantification of community assembly processes or the improvement of species distribution models. We addressed this question in the case of species from a Mediterranean rangeland of southern France.

Changes in species abundance in response to management intensification (fertilization and increased grazing pressure) were followed over a 28‐year period. Probabilities of presence, and elasticities of the changes in the probability of space occupancy to colonization and survival, which are analogues of demographic parameters, were calculated for 53 species from the time series of abundance data using a space occupancy model. Nine quantitative traits pertaining to resource use, plant morphology, regeneration and phenology were measured on these species and related to demographic parameters.

The long‐term dynamics of species in response to management intensification was associated with major changes in functional traits and strategies. Changes in the probability of occurrence—analogous to population growth rate—were correlated with traits describing the fast‐slow continuum of leaf functioning. The elasticity of population growth rate to colonization was significantly related to reproductive plant height and seed mass, and to a lower extent, to leaf carbon isotopic ratio.

Synthesis. The functional response of species to management intensification corresponds to a shift along the second axis of a recently identified global spectrum of plant form and function, which maps, to some extent, onto the fast‐slow continuum of life‐history strategies. By contrast, the elasticity of colonization relates to the global spectrum axis capturing the size of organs. Seed mass contributes to this axis and is assumed to relate to one of the important traits structuring the reproductive strategy axis of life histories as well, namely net reproductive rate. While this mapping between functional and life‐history traits is appealing, further tests in contrasting types of communities are required to assess its degree of generality.
Continental‐scale macrofungal assemblage patterns correlate with climate, soil carbon and nitrogen deposition
Authors: Andrew Carrie , Halvorsen Rune , Heegaard Einar , Kuyper Thomas W. , Heilmann‐Clausen Jacob , Krisai‐Greilhuber Irmgard , Bässler Claus , Egli Simon , Gange Alan C. , Høiland Klaus , Kirk Paul M. , Senn‐Irlet Beatrice , Boddy Lynne , Büntgen Ulf , Kauserud Håvard
Published: June 2018

Aim

Macroecological scales of species compositional trends are well documented for a variety of plant and animal groups, but remain sparse for fungi, despite their ecological importance in carbon and nutrient cycling. It is, thus, essential to understand the composition of fungal assemblages across broad geographical scales and the underlying drivers. Our overall aim was to describe these patterns for fungi across two nutritional modes (saprotrophic and ectomycorrhizal). Furthermore, we aimed to elucidate the temporal component of fruiting patterns and to relate these to soil carbon and nitrogen deposition.

Location

Central and Northern Europe.

Methods

A total of 4.9 million fungal fruit body observations throughout Europe, collected between 1970 and 2010, were analysed to determine the two main environmental and geographical gradients structuring fungal assemblages for two main nutritional modes, saprotrophic and ectomycorrhizal fungi.

Results

Two main gradients explaining the geography of compositional patterns were identified, for each nutritional mode. Mean annual temperature (and related collinear, seasonal measures) correlated most strongly with the first gradient for both nutritional modes. Soil organic carbon was the highest correlate of the second compositional gradient for ectomycorrhizal fungi, suspected as an indicator of vegetation‐ and pH‐related covariates. In contrast, nitrogen deposition constituted a second gradient for saprotrophic fungi, likely a proxy for anthropogenic pollution. Compositional gradients and environmental conditions correlated similarly when the data were divided into two time intervals of 1970–1990 and 1991–2010. Evidence of compositional temporal change was highest with increasing elevation and latitude.

Main conclusions

Fungal assemblage patterns demonstrate clear biogeographical patterns that relate the nutritional modes to their main environmental correlates of temperature, soil organic carbon and nitrogen deposition. With respect to global change impacts, the highest rates of compositional change by time suggest targeting higher latitudes and elevations for a better understanding of fungal dynamics. We, finally, suggest further examination of the ranges and dispersal abilities of fungi to better assess responses to global change.
Non‐viral pathogens: Identification, relevance, and prevention for xenotransplantation
Authors: Tönjes Ralf R.
Published: June 2018

Background

For xenotransplantation, strategies to prevent transmission of microorganisms from the source animal to the human recipient must be closely coordinated since tissues and organs are classified as non‐sterile. Strategies for international cooperation and coordination of xenogeneic infection / disease surveillance and response are available.

Methods

The regulatory frameworks and criteria on microbial safety as published by World Health Organization (WHO), European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.), European Medicines Agency (EMA) as well as U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), are outlined.

Results

Different sources of microbial germs are considered including potential infectious agents. Monitoring of livestock and testing of xenografts is accompanied by positive and negative controls to detect and to exclude tissue specific microorganisms such as bacteria.

Conclusions

The criteria of microbial status to be considered for xenotransplants are summarized.
Excitation mechanisms in a nonequilibrium helium plasma jet emerging in ambient air at 1 atm
Authors: Nguyen Tam , Hernandez Eduardo , Donnelly Vincent M. , Economou Demetre J.
Published: June 2018

Species excitation mechanisms were studied, using optical emission spectroscopy, in a helium 200 kHz radio frequency (RF) plasma jet, emerging into the open air at 1 atm. The jet impinged on a dielectric substrate of either MgF2 or quartz. Optical emissions between 115 and 950 nm were recorded through the substrate either along the jet axis or at a steep angle to isolate emissions originating from the region near the substrate surface. Time-resolved emission was observed close to the substrate surface only during a brief period near the positive peak of the applied RF voltage. No emission close to the substrate was observed during the negative voltage with the exception of a weak emission from N2 (C3Πu → B3Πg) just prior to the peak negative voltage. N2+, H, O, OH, and NO emissions along the discharge axis, from impurities in the He feed, or air diffusing into the He jet just downstream of the end of the tube (nozzle), were dominated by Penning ionization of N2 and dissociative excitation of water and O2 by He metastables (He*). Unlike the fully modulated electron-impact excited emission from N2 and He, emissions produced by collisions with He* were weakly modulated during the RF period and were shifted in phase with respect to the peak positive or peak negative voltage. This was attributed to vacuum ultraviolet emissions, in the radiation-trapped environment of atmospheric pressure, that produced He* outside the discharge tube even during the period when the plasma was confined inside the tube. N2 emission revealed a weak ionization wave propagating during the positive voltage period, well before the peak positive voltage. At peak positive voltage, ionization and excitation in the gap between the nozzle and the substrate maximized. The plasma positively charged the substrate, resulting in the brief N2 emission observed during the negative voltage period, as electrons drifted toward the substrate to neutralize the positive charge.
Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Walker Ulrich A , Saketkoo Lesley Ann , Distler Oliver
Published: June 2018

Three randomised controlled trials of haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) demonstrated long-term survival benefits, induction of clinically meaningful, sustained improvement of forced vital capacity with improvements in skin thickening, vasculopathy and health-related quality of life, in contrast to a clinical decline in standard of care control groups. These benefits, however, must be weighed against the increased risk of transplant-related mortality. Further, with disease progression, severe extensive internal organ involvement and damage ensues, constituting an exclusion criterion for safety reasons, leaving a limited window whereby patients with SSc are eligible for HSCT. Although autologous HSCT offers the possibility of drug-free remission, relapse can occur, requiring re-initiation of disease modifying antirheumatic drugs. HSCT is also associated with secondary autoimmune diseases and gonadal failure. HSCT should be proposed for carefully selected patients with early rapidly progressive diffuse SSc whose clinical picture portends a poor prognosis for survival, but yet lacks advanced organ involvement.
A graphene-based tunable guided-mode resonance narrowband mid-infrared filter
Authors: Liao Yan-Lin , Zhao Yan , Zhang Wen , Feng Sujuan
Published: June 2018

We report a graphene-based tunable ultra-narrowband mid-infrared filter which can be tuned from 4.45122 [Formula: see text]m to 4.44675 [Formula: see text]m by tuning the Fermi level from 0.2 eV to 0.6 eV. Furthermore, the reflection bandwidth is less than 0.2 nm and the reflection rate is more than 0.55. The ultra-narrowband filter is designed based on the guided-mode resonance (GMR) effect. The shift of reflection peak is mainly caused by the change of the real part of the graphene’s permittivity. This tunable ultra-narrowband mid-infrared filter can be applied in the mid-infrared microscopy.
Solution of Dense Linear Systems via Roundoff-Error-Free Factorization Algorithms
Authors: Escobedo Adolfo R. , Moreno-Centeno Erick , Lourenco Christopher
Published: June 2018

Exact solving of systems of linear equations (SLEs) is a fundamental subroutine within number theory, formal verification of mathematical proofs, and exact-precision mathematical programming. Moreover, efficient exact SLE solution methods could be valuable for a growing body of science and engineering applications where current fixed-precision standards have been deemed inadequate. This article contains key derivations relating, and computational tests comparing, two exact direct solution frameworks: roundoff-error-free (REF) LU factorization and rational arithmetic LU factorization. Specifically, both approaches solve the linear system
Ax
=
b
by factoring the matrix A into the product of a lower triangular (L) and upper triangular (U) matrix,
A
=
LU
. Most significantly, the featured findings reveal that the integer-preserving REF factorization framework solves dense SLEs one order of magnitude faster than the exact rational arithmetic approach while requiring half the memory. Since rational LU is utilized for basic solution validation in exact linear and mixed-integer programming, these results offer preliminary evidence of the potential of the REF factorization framework to be utilized within this specific context. Additionally, this article develops and analyzes an efficient streamlined version of Edmonds’s Q-matrix approach that can be implemented as another basic solution validation approach. Further experiments demonstrate that the REF factorization framework also outperforms this alternative integer-preserving approach in terms of memory requirements and computational effort. General purpose codes to solve dense SLEs exactly via any of the aforementioned methods have been made available to the research and academic communities.
Triploid Colubrid Snake Provides Insight into the Mechanism of Sex Determination in Advanced Snakes
Authors: Rovatsos Michail , Augstenová Barbora , Altmanová Marie , Sloboda Michal , Kodym Petr , Kratochvíl Lukáš
Published: June 2018

The advanced snakes (Caenophidia), the important amniote lineage encompassing more than 3,000 living species, possess highly conserved female heterogamety across all families. However, we still lack any knowledge on the gene(s) and the molecular mechanism controlling sex determination. Triploid individuals spontaneously appear in populations of diploid species and can provide an important insight into the evolution of sex determination. Here, we report a case of spontaneous triploidy in a male of the twin-spotted ratsnake (Elaphe bimaculata) with ZZW sex chromosomes. We speculate that as both ZZ and ZZW individuals develop male gonads, the ratio between the number of Z chromosomes and autosomes, and not the presence of the W chromosome in the genome, drives sex determination in the advanced snakes.
Characteristics of the antibiotic regimen that affect antimicrobial resistance in urinary pathogens
Authors: Catry Boudewijn , Latour Katrien , Bruyndonckx Robin , Diba Camellia , Geerdens Candida , Coenen Samuel
Published: June 2018

Background

Treatment duration, treatment interval, formulation and type of antimicrobial (antibiotic) are modifiable factors that will influence antimicrobial selection pressure. Currently, the impact of the route of administration on the occurrence of resistance in humans is unclear.

Methods

In this retrospective multi-center cohort study, we assessed the impact of different variables on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in pathogens isolated from the urinary tract in older adults. A generalized estimating equations (GEE) model was constructed using 7397 Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolates.

Results

Resistance in E. coli was higher when more antibiotics had been prescribed before isolation of the sample, especially in women (significant interaction p = 0.0016) and up to nine preceding prescriptions it was lower for higher proportions of preceding parenteral prescriptions (significant interactions p = 0.0067). The laboratory identity, dying, and the time between prescription and sampling were important confounders (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our model describing shows a dose-response relation between antibiotic use and AMR in E. coli isolated from urine samples of older adults, and, for the first time, that higher proportions of preceding parenteral prescriptions are significantly associated with lower probabilities of AMR, provided that the number of preceding prescriptions is not extremely high (≥10 during the 1.5 year observation period; 93% of 5650 included patients).

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered.
Long noncoding RNA repertoire and targeting by nuclear exosome, cytoplasmic exonuclease, and RNAi in fission yeast
Authors: Atkinson Sophie R. , Marguerat Samuel , Bitton Danny A. , Rodríguez-López Maria , Rallis Charalampos , Lemay Jean-François , Cotobal Cristina , Malecki Michal , Smialowski Pawel , Mata Juan , Korber Philipp , Bachand François , Bähler Jürg
Published: June 2018

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are longer than 200 nucleotides but often unstable, contribute a substantial and diverse portion to pervasive noncoding transcriptomes. Most lncRNAs are poorly annotated and understood, although several play important roles in gene regulation and diseases. Here we systematically uncover and analyze lncRNAs in Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Based on RNA-seq data from twelve RNA-processing mutants and nine physiological conditions, we identify 5775 novel lncRNAs, nearly 4× the previously annotated lncRNAs. The expression of most lncRNAs becomes strongly induced under the genetic and physiological perturbations, most notably during late meiosis. Most lncRNAs are cryptic and suppressed by three RNA-processing pathways: the nuclear exosome, cytoplasmic exonuclease, and RNAi. Double-mutant analyses reveal substantial coordination and redundancy among these pathways. We classify lncRNAs by their dominant pathway into cryptic unstable transcripts (CUTs), Xrn1-sensitive unstable transcripts (XUTs), and Dicer-sensitive unstable transcripts (DUTs). XUTs and DUTs are enriched for antisense lncRNAs, while CUTs are often bidirectional and actively translated. The cytoplasmic exonuclease, along with RNAi, dampens the expression of thousands of lncRNAs and mRNAs that become induced during meiosis. Antisense lncRNA expression mostly negatively correlates with sense mRNA expression in the physiological, but not the genetic conditions. Intergenic and bidirectional lncRNAs emerge from nucleosome-depleted regions, upstream of positioned nucleosomes. Our results highlight both similarities and differences to lncRNA regulation in budding yeast. This broad survey of the lncRNA repertoire and characteristics in S. pombe, and the interwoven regulatory pathways that target lncRNAs, provides a rich framework for their further functional analyses.
A INDÚSTRIA CULTURAL NO BRASIL: O PODER ECONÔMICO DA MÍDIA TELEVISIVA
Authors: Cunha Julio Araujo Carneiro da
Published: June 2018

O primeiro grande meio de comunicação em massa foi a impressão, inventada por Johannes Gutemberg no século XV. A tecnologia da impressão possibilitou a difusão de livros e textos para um maior número de pessoas, sendo a Bíblia o primeiro livro impresso por Gutemberg. No período atual, o domínio da comunicação de massa deixou de ser a impressão, e a televisão ocupou seu espaço, atingindo quase toda a população dos países desenvolvidos e em desenvolvimento. Este trabalho tem por objetivo discutir e analisar o fenômeno da mídia televisiva, cujo poder econômico e ideológico reflete diretamente no setor do qual faz parte e na vida cotidiana das pessoas. Para tanto, tratamos da noção de indústria cultural e sua forma de operação, assim como traçamos um breve panorama do setor de emissores de TV no Brasil, e na cidade de São Paulo, com suas características de mercado, como a forte concentração das empresas, apresentando dados que possam subsidiar nossa argumentação. Discutirmos então, de maneira mais pontual, os aspectos econômicos e ideológicos que permeiam a mídia televisiva e como eles estão inter-relacionados, refletindo desafios e dilemas no papel da comunicação de massa.
Alltag mit Prothese
Authors: Ruther Carolin
Published: June 2018

Aktuelle Debatten um moderne Prothetik kreisen um Begriffe wie Cyborg oder Human Enhancement. Doch was heißt es eigentlich, nach einer Amputation mit Prothese zu leben? Carolin Ruthers ethnographische Studie gibt Einblick in die Erfahrungswelten von Beinprothesenträgern. Sie zeigt auf, wie der Alltag mit Prothese neu erarbeitet werden muss und beleuchtet das komplexe Zusammenwirken von Mensch und medizintechnischem Artefakt - im klinischen wie privaten Umfeld. Die Studie zeichnet ein differenziertes Bild vom Umgang mit medikaler Technologie im täglichen Leben nach und verdeutlicht, wie sich kulturwissenschaftliche Ansätze im Bereich der Gesundheitsforschung nutzen lassen.
Los proyectos sociales y técnicos. Un acercamiento teórico-metodológico a su estucturación y realización desde la formación inicial del profesional de la educación.
Authors: Hurtado Curbelo Fermín José , Sánchez Maxleni Fuentes
Published: June 2018

Los proyectos sociales y técnicos son las actividades que, partiendo de un plan de acción o tareas, atienden a una problemática de interés de los estudiantes y que implica actividad investigativa o prácticas creadoras y transformadoras o ambas, orientadas a la institución y la comunidad. El trabajo que se presenta tiene como objetivo sistematizar experiencias teórico-prácticas en relación con la estructuración y realización de tales proyectos como vías para la preparación del futuro egresado de carreras pedagógicas desde su formación inicial, en tal sentido se ofrecen consideraciones teórico-metodológicas y de cómo se pueden materializar desde el proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje.

Palabras Claves: proyectos sociales y técnicos; actividad investigativa
Designing for Young Children: Learning, Practice, and Decisions
Authors: Kim Yanghee , Smith Diantha
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a vignette of our development of a robot-based app sponsored by the corporation producing the robot. The discussion in this paper begins with the affordances of humanoid robots that enable transformative pedagogical approaches to address children’s needs. Next, we present our design case, where we develop a humanoid robot-based English-learning curriculum for young children to learn English as a second language. This case highlights a multifaceted app development process that involves synergistic, multidisciplinary teamwork and design enhancement through repeated observations of child/robot interactions. We present a few snapshots from the design case to illustrate the teamwork and design enhancement. From our observations in repeated user testing, the robot app seems to induce independent navigation, sustained attention and engagement, and rich learning experiences for children. The design challenges and the way we address them may be useful for others developing similar interventions for young children.
Feldspar Ceramic Strength and The Reinforcing Effect by Adhesive Cementation Under Accelerated Aging
Authors: Barbon Fabíola Jardim , Moraes Rafael Ratto , Boscato Noéli , Alessandretti Rodrigo , Spazzin Aloísio Oro
Published: June 2018

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of the accelerated artificial aging (AAA) on feldspar ceramic strength and the reinforcing effect promoted by adhesive cementation with resin luting agent. One hundred twenty feldspar ceramic disks were obtained. Sixty disks were acid-etched, silanized, and coated with an experimental resin luting agent simulating the adhesive luting procedures. Four groups were created (n=30): uncoated ceramic (control group), uncoated ceramic submitted to AAA, ceramic coated with resin luting agent, and coated ceramic submitted to AAA. Biaxial flexural testing with ball-on-ring setup was carried out. Biaxial flexural strength (s bf , MPa), characteristic strength (s 0 , MPa), and Weibull modulus (m) were calculated for axial positions z=0 (ceramic surface) and z=−t2 (luting agent surface). Data of s bf at positions z=0 and z=-t2 were separately submitted to statistical analyses (a=0.05). The uncoated ceramic submitted to AAA had no significant difference in s bf and s 0 compared with the control group. Resin coating of the ceramic increased s bf and s 0 at z=0. The AAA increased the s bf and s 0 for the resin-coated ceramic specimens at z=0 and also the s 0 at axial position z=-t2. The structural reliability at z=0 and z=-t2 was not influenced by the variables tested. In conclusion, resin coating improved the mechanical strength of the feldspar ceramic. The AAA procedure was not effective in aging the uncoated or resin-coated feldspar ceramic specimens.
What Increases the Risk of Dental Traumatism in Patients with Developmental Disabilities?
Authors: Souza Xana Carolina de Pereira e , Abreu Mauro Henrique Nogueira Guimarães , Resende Vera Lúcia Silva , Castilho Lia Silva de
Published: June 2018

Abstract This study investigated risk factors for tooth injuries in individuals from a dental clinical reference service for patients with special needs in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. This is a retrospective cohort study that evaluated 493 dental charts of individuals with or without tooth injuries at their first dental appointment. The dependent variable was the time of occurrence of new dental traumatic injuries and was measured in months. Gender, age, International Code of Diseases, mother’s education, mouth breathing, hyperkinesis, pacifier use, thumb sucking, psychotropic drug use, tooth injuries at the first dental examination, involuntary movements, open bite, having one or more siblings and reports of seizures were the covariates. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the unadjusted and adjusted hazard ratios and their respective 95% confidence intervals. The average time that individuals remained free of dental traumatism was 170.78 months (95% CI, 157.89-183.66) with median of 216 months. The incidence of new events was 11.88%. The covariate associated with an increased risk of dental traumatism was a history of tooth injuries at the first dental appointment. The increase in dental trauma risk was 3.59 (95% CI, 1.94-6.65). A history of traumatic dental injury was the risk factor for the dental trauma found in this group of individuals with developmental disabilities.
Innovative operating strategies in build–operate–transfer transport infrastructure in Nigeria
Authors: Sanni Gabriel A , Adebiyi John O
Published: June 2018

This study investigated drivers and critical success factors (CSFs) of innovations employed in the operating phase of transport infrastructure procured through build–operate–transfer (BOT) in Nigeria. The study was aimed at enhancing infrastructure revenue flow through customer-focused innovations using electronic toll collection and customer relationship management as case studies. The primary driver of innovation was establishment and execution of innovation as an integral component of the business development plan. The most significant CSF was an effective pre-implementation plan. Innovation design and execution requirements were effectively articulated. The study concludes that innovation in BOT projects must be continuous and cover all BOT phases.
(Re)pensando Espaços Livres Públicos em João Pessoa : Uma proposta para os bairros Expedicionários, Tambauzinho e Miramar.
Authors: Tabosa Rebeca Maria Ramos , Afonso Filipe Valentim , Silveira José Augusto Ribeiro da , Donegan Lucy
Published: June 2018

Este artigo analisa a situação urbana e edificada de uma área situada entre o Centro e o litoral da cidade de João Pessoa, a partir do qual propôe um sistema de espaços livres públicos. A área de estudo engloba os bairros Expedicionários, Tambaúzinho e Miramar – comumente conhecida como “Tambaúzinho” – situados próximos aos corredores de expansão do centro antigo da cidade para o litoral.  Apesar de estar em posição central e da situação urbana consolidada, a área apresenta problemas recorrentes em cidades brasileiras, como a desarticulação do transporte público, falta de conectividade com áreas do entorno, precário mobiliário urbano, falta de manutenção das calçadas e fraca distribuição de serviços. O diagnóstico serviu para sistematizar os principais problemas da área, indicar potencialidades (oportunidades) e consequentemente guiou o estabelecimento de diretrizes de intervenção que compõem o projeto aqui apresentado como estudo preliminar. As diretrizes foram estabelecidas na busca de mais circulação, conectividade, permanência e identidade, formando a proposta de sistema de espaços livres públicos, e buscando soluções mais integradas, eficientes e sustentáveis.Palavras-chave: Planejamento urbano, Transporte público, Sistema de espaços livres públicos, João Pessoa.
Response of pulses to varied levels of farm yard manure
Authors: Girijesh G. K. , Renukaswamy N. S. , Basavaraj M. , Shilpha S. M.
Published: June 2018

A field experiment was conducted at Zonal Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, Shivamogga for three years, during kharif season of 2013-14, 2014-15 and 2015-16 to study the effect of varied levels of FYM on yield and economics of pulses (viz., black gram, green gram, cowpea and field bean). The pooled yield of three years was significantly higher with FYM application @ 10.0t ha-1 in black gram (743 kg ha-1) and green gram (664 kg ha-1) while it was with 7.5 t ha-1 in field bean (655 kg ha-1) and 5.0 t ha-1 in cowpea (1527 kg ha-1) over no FYM treatment. However, higher net returns of Rs. 13,013, Rs. 10,366, Rs. 40,368 and Rs. 13,856 was noticed with FYM application @ 10.0, 7.5, 5.0 and 2.5 t ha-1 for black gram, field bean, cowpea and green gram, respectively.
Effect of plant densities and different environments on productivity and profitability of Yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata sub sp. sesquipedalis)
Authors: Manjesh M. , Adivappar Nagarajappa , Srinivasa V. , Girijesh G. K. , . Sharanabasappa
Published: June 2018

The present investigation was carried out during Kharif 2016 at ZAHRS, Navile, Shivamogga. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. There were 24 treatment combinations comprised of three different environments (polyhouse, shadenet and open field) and eight spacing treatments (45 cm x 30 cm, 45 cm x 45 cm, 45 cm x 60 cm, 45 cm x 75 cm, 60 cm x 30 cm, 60 cm x 45 cm, 60 cm x 60 cm, 60 cm x 75 cm). The obtained results showed that all the characters were markedly affected by different environments and spacing. Among different environments significantly higher plant height (325.17cm), number of primary branches (12.46), number of pods per plant (21.66), pod length (70.67 cm), pod girth (3.73 cm), pod weight per plant (31.13 g), yield per plant (458.21 g) and higher pod yield per 1000 m2 (1605.99 kg) were recorded in polyhouse. Among spacing treatments significantly higher number of primary branches (12.91), pods per plant (22.30), pod length (71.73 cm), pod girth (3.94 cm), pod weight per plant (33.11g) and pod yield per plant (547.86 g) were recorded with wider spacing of 60 cm x 75 cm. Highest plant height (294.29 cm) and yield per 1000 m2 (1791.68 kg) were recorded with the closer spacing of 45 cm x 30 cm. The interaction of different environments and spacing were found to be statistically non-significant for all the traits. The evaluation of production economics revealed that growing of Yardlong bean in open condition with 45 cm x 30 cm spacing was most remunerative option with a highest benefit: cost of 3.14.
Dissimilaridade genética entre famílias de melancia
Authors: Santos Luniara Bastos , Tavares Aline Torquato , Ferreira Tiago Alves , Santos Gil Rodrigues , Sarmento Renato Almeida , Lopes Danilo Alves Porto da Silva , Nascimento Ildon Rodrigues
Published: June 2018

As cucurbitáceas em geral, dentre elas a melancia, estão sujeitas a várias doenças causadas por vírus que podem reduzir substancialmente a sua produtividade, tanto quantitativa como qualitativamente. A resistência às viroses PRSV-W e WMV ainda não foi bem explorada na cultura da melancia. Objetivou-se avaliar a dissimilaridade genética de famílias de melancia tipo Crimson Sweet obtidas do retrocruzamento do acesso resistente PI 595201 com Crimson Sweet e selecionadas para resistência a WMV e PRSV-W. Foram utilizados 25 tratamentos sendo eles: 23 famílias obtidas de quatro retrocruzamentos do acesso PI 595201 (Genitor não-recorrente) com a cultivar Crimson Sweet (Genitor recorrente), selecionadas para resistência a PRSV-W e WMV e duas cultivares comerciais do tipo Crimson Sweet. Foram avaliadas 13 características para o estudo da similaridade genética e os componentes principais. Há variação genética entre os genótipos avaliado com formação de dez grupos distintos. As características que mais contribuíram para a dissimilaridade genética foram coloração da polpa (18,87%), sólidos solúveis (17,04%), pH (11,55%) e acidez titulável (9,98%). Os genótipos mais dissimilares foram a cultivar Crimson Sweet® - Sakata e as famílias 19 - WMX-001G-14-02-55-01pl#10, 15 - WMX-001G-14-02-55-01pl#05 e 2 - WMX-001G-09-04-58-07pl#08.
Entanglement entropies of minimal models from null-vectors
Authors: Dupic Thomas , Estienne Benoit , Ikhlef Yacine
Published: June 2018

We present a new method to compute Rényi entropies in one-dimensional
critical systems. The null-vector conditions on the twist fields in the
cyclic orbifold allow us to derive a differential equation for their
correlation functions. The latter are then determined by standard
bootstrap techniques. We apply this method to the calculation of various
Rényi entropies.