bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scribble and Discs-large mediate tricellular junction formation
Authors: Sharifkhodaei Zohreh , Gilbert Mary M. , Auld Vanessa J.
Published: August 2019

Junctional complexes that mediate cell adhesion are key to epithelial integrity, cell division and permeability barriers formation. In Drosophila the scaffolding proteins Scribble (Scrib) and Discs-large (Dlg) are key regulators of epithelial polarity, proliferation, assembly of junctions, and protein trafficking. We found that Scrib and Dlg are necessary for the formation of the tricellular junction (TCJ), a unique junction that forms in epithelia at the convergence of three neighbouring cells. Scrib and Dlg are in close proximity with the TCJ proteins Gliotactin (Gli) and Bark-beetle (Bark) and both are required for TCJ protein recruitment. Loss of Bark or Gli lead to the basolateral spread of the TCJ complex at the cell corners. Loss of the septate junction proteins NrxIV and the Na+/K+ ATPase also resulted in the basolateral spread of the entire TCJ complex at the cell corners. The Scrib PDZ1-2 domains and the Dlg GUK domain are necessary for Bark and Gli localization to the TCJ. Overall, we propose a model where Scrib and Dlg are key components of the TCJ, and form a complex with Bark and Gli.
Pax9 is required for cardiovascular development and interacts with Tbx1 in the pharyngeal endoderm to control 4th pharyngeal arch artery morphogenesis
Authors: Phillips Helen M. , Stothard Catherine A. , Qureshi Wasay Mohiuddin Shaikh , Kousa Anastasia I. , Briones-Leon J. Alberto , Khasawneh Ramada R. , O'Loughlin Chloe , Sanders Rachel , Mazzotta Silvia , Dodds Rebecca , Seidel Kerstin , Bates Timothy , Nakatomi Mitsushiro , Cockell Simon J. , Schneider Jürgen E. , Mohun Timothy J. , Maehr René , Kist Ralf , Peters Heiko , Bamforth Simon D.
Published: August 2019

Developmental defects affecting the heart and aortic arch arteries are a significant phenotype observed in 22q11 deletion syndrome patients and are caused by a microdeletion on chromosome 22q11. TBX1, one of the deleted genes, is expressed throughout the pharyngeal arches and is considered a key gene, when mutated, for the arch artery defects. Pax9 is expressed in the pharyngeal endoderm and is downregulated in Tbx1 mutant mice. We show here that Pax9 deficient mice are born with complex cardiovascular malformations affecting the outflow tract and aortic arch arteries with failure of the 3rd and 4th pharyngeal arch arteries to form correctly. Transcriptome analysis indicated that Pax9 and Tbx1 may function together, and mice double heterozygous for Tbx1/Pax9 presented with a significantly increased incidence of interrupted aortic arch when compared to Tbx1 heterozygous mice. Using a novel Pax9Cre allele we demonstrated that the site of this Tbx1-Pax9 genetic interaction is in the pharyngeal endoderm, therefore revealing that a Tbx1-Pax9-controlled signalling mechanism emanating from the pharyngeal endoderm is required for critical tissue interactions during normal morphogenesis of the pharyngeal arch artery system.
Downregulation of homeodomain protein Cut is essential for follicle maturation and ovulation
Authors: Knapp Elizabeth M. , Li Wei , Sun Jianjun
Published: August 2019

Proper development and maturation of a follicle is essential for successful ovulation and reproduction; however, molecular mechanisms for follicle maturation, particularly for somatic follicle cell differentiation, are poorly understood. During Drosophila oogenesis, the somatic follicle cells encasing oocytes undergo two distinct well-established transitions: the mitotic to endocycle switch at stage 6/7 and the endocycle to gene amplification switch at stage10A/10B. Here, we identify a novel third follicle cell transition that occurs in the final stages of oogenesis (stage 13/14). This late follicle cell transition is characterized by a downregulation of the homeodomain transcription factor Cut and the zinc-finger transcription factor Tramtrack-69 (Ttk69), and an upregulation of the transcription factor Hindsight (Hnt). We demonstrate that inducing expression of Cut in stage 14 follicle cells is sufficient to inhibit follicle rupture and ovulation through its negative regulation of Hnt and promotion of Ttk69 expression. Our work illustrates the importance of the stage13/14 transition for follicle maturation and demonstrates the complex regulation required for somatic follicle cells to differentiate into a state primed for follicle rupture and ovulation.
Longer collagen fibers trigger multicellular streaming on soft substrates via enhanced forces and cell–cell cooperation
Authors: Sarker Bapi , Bagchi Amrit , Walter Christopher , Almeida José , Pathak Amit
Published: August 2019

Grouped cells often leave large cell colonies in the form of narrow multicellular streams. However, it remains unknown how collective cell streaming exploits specific matrix properties, like stiffness and fiber length. It is also unclear how cellular forces, cell–cell adhesion and velocities are coordinated within streams. To independently tune stiffness and collagen fiber length, we developed new hydrogels and discovered invasion-like streaming of normal epithelial cells on soft substrates coated with long collagen fibers. Here, streams arise owing to a surge in cell velocities, forces, YAP activity and expression of mesenchymal marker proteins in regions of high-stress anisotropy. Coordinated velocities and symmetric distribution of tensile and compressive stresses support persistent stream growth. Stiff matrices diminish cell–cell adhesions, disrupt front–rear velocity coordination and do not promote sustained fiber-dependent streaming. Rac inhibition reduces cell elongation and cell–cell cooperation, resulting in a complete loss of streaming in all matrix conditions. Our results reveal a stiffness-modulated effect of collagen fiber length on collective cell streaming and unveil a biophysical mechanism of streaming governed by a delicate balance of enhanced forces, monolayer cohesion and cell–cell cooperation.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first authors of the paper.
The RBG-1–RBG-2 complex modulates autophagy activity by regulating lysosomal biogenesis and function in C. elegans
Authors: Wang Zhaoyu , Zhao Hongyu , Yuan Chongzhen , Zhao Dongfeng , Sun Yanan , Wang Xiaochen , Zhang Hong
Published: August 2019

Vici syndrome is a severe and progressive multisystem disease caused by mutations in the EPG5 gene. In patient tissues and animal models, loss of EPG5 function is associated with defective autophagy caused by accumulation of non-degradative autolysosomes, but very little is known about the mechanism underlying this cellular phenotype. Here, we demonstrate that loss of function of the RBG-1–RBG-2 complex ameliorates the autophagy defect in C. elegans epg-5 mutants. The suppression effect is independent of the complex's activity as a RAB-3 GAP and a RAB-18 GEF. Loss of rbg-1 activity promotes lysosomal biogenesis and function, and also suppresses the accumulation of non-functional autolysosomes in epg-5 mutants. The mobility of late endosome- and lysosome-associated RAB-7 is reduced in epg-5 mutants, and this defect is rescued by simultaneous loss of function of rbg-1. Expression of the GDP-bound form of RAB-7 also promotes lysosomal biogenesis and suppresses the autophagy defect in epg-5 mutants. Our study reveals that the RBG-1–RBG-2 complex acts by modulating the dynamics of membrane-associated RAB-7 to regulate lysosomal biogenesis, and provides insights into the pathogenesis of Vici syndrome.
Study protocol for a process evaluation of a cluster randomised controlled trial to reduce potentially inappropriate prescribing and polypharmacy in patients with multimorbidity in Irish primary care (SPPiRE)
Authors: Kyne Karen , McCarthy Caroline , Kiely Bridget , Smith Susan M. , Clyne Barbara ,   SPPiRE Study team
Published: August 2019

Background: Multimorbidity (the presence of two or more chronic conditions) is associated with poorer health outcomes, particularly for patients with significant polypharmacy (≥15 medications), due to the higher risk of adverse events and drug interactions. The SPPiRE study will assess the effectiveness of a complex intervention to support general practitioners (GPs) to reduce potentially inappropriate prescribing and consider deprescribing in older people with multimorbidity and significant polypharmacy. The aim of the SPPiRE process evaluation is to understand how and why the intervention is effective or ineffective and to explore the potential for system wide implementation of the intervention using the Medical Research Council general themes of context, implementation and mechanism of impact.

Methods: The SPPiRE study is a clustered randomised controlled trial (RCT), aiming to recruit 55 general practices and 400 patients (≥65 years) on ≥15 medications throughout the Republic of Ireland.

This mixed-methods process evaluation of the SPPiRE study will integrate both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data will be collected on use of the intervention elements and from GP questionnaires. Qualitative data will be collected from semi-structured telephone interviews with all intervention GPs and a purposeful sample of patients from intervention practices. The topic guide will explore barriers and facilitators to participation and implementation of the intervention.

Quantitative data will be analysed using descriptive statistics. Interviews will be transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Quantitative and qualitative data will be then be integrated.

Discussion: The SPPiRE cluster RCT will provide evidence regarding the effectiveness and practicability of delivering a structured medication review in reducing polypharmacy and potentially inappropriate prescribing for patients with multimorbidity. This process evaluation will provide information on how the intervention was implemented, how it was or was not effective and the potential for a system wide implementation.

Trial registration: ISRCTN 12752680, registration: 20/10/2016
Impact of cutoff points on adolescent sedentary behavior measured by accelerometer
Authors: Dias Moura Ially Rayssa , Barbosa Arthur Oliveira , Silva Inácio Crochemore Mohnsam da , Romanzini Marcelo , Prazeres Filho Alcides , De Farias Júnior José Cazuza
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of cutoff points in defining sedentary behavior (SB) time and prevalence, measured by accelerometers in adolescents from Northeastern Brazil. This is a cross-sectional study with adolescents aged between 10 and 14 years from public schools in João Pessoa, Paraíba state, conducted in 2014. SB was measured by an accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X+) and the following cutoff points were applied: Evenson (≤ 25 counts/15sec), Puyau (< 800 counts/60sec), Vanhelst (≤ 400 counts/60sec), Hänggi (< 3 counts/1sec) and Romanzini (≤ 180 counts/15sec), along with the 20 and 60-minute accelerometer nonwear time. To compare the average and prevalence of excessive SB time (≥ 8 hours/day) between cutoff points, one-way ANOVA for repeated measures (Bonferroni post hoc) and the Cochran test, respectively, were used. There were significant differences in average SB between the cutoff points analyzed (p > 0.05), ranging from 37.44 min/day (Romanzini: 547.37 min/day vs. Vanhelst: 584.81 min/day) to 370.44 min/day (Hänggi: 310.51 min/day vs. Puyau: 680.95 min/day) for the 20-minute nonwear criterion; and from 81.52 min/day (Evenson: 502.41 min/day vs. Romanzini: 583.93 min/day) to 361.94 min/day (Hänggi: 354.58 min/day vs. Puyau: 716.52 min/day) for the 60-minute criterion. The prevalence of excessive SB varied from 3.3% (Hänggi) to 99.3% (Puyau). Average daily SB and the prevalence of excessive SB in the adolescents showed marked differences between the cutoff points assessed.
A Data-Driven Functionally Robust Approach for Simultaneous Pricing and Order Quantity Decisions with Unknown Demand Function
Authors: Hu Jian , Li Junxuan , Mehrotra Sanjay
Published: August 2019

This research considers a retailer’s problem of optimally pricing a product and making order quantity decisions without knowing the function specifying price–demand relationship. We assume that the price is set only once after collecting data, possibly from history or a market study, and that the price–demand relationship is a decreasing convex or concave function. Different from the classic approach that fits a function to the price–demand data, we propose and study a maximin framework introducing a novel concept of function robustness. This function robustness concept also provides an alternative mechanism for performing sensitivity analysis for decisions in the presence of data fitting errors. The overall profit maximization model is a non-convex optimization problem in a function space. A two-sided cutting surface algorithm is developed to solve the maximin model. An analytical approach to compute the rate of decrease of optimal profit is also given for the purposes of sensitivity analysis.
Bayesian Social Learning from Consumer Reviews
Authors: Ifrach Bar , Maglaras Costis , Scarsini Marco , Zseleva Anna
Published: August 2019

When buying a new product online, potential consumers often read online reviews to get an understanding of the quality of the product, and then they decide whether to make a purchase. In turn, people who purchase the product submit reviews to the aggregator site, thus adding new information over time. This paper is the first to study such a social learning mechanism based on online reviews under the assumption that consumers are Bayesian. It identifies assumptions under which consumers eventually learn the true quality and explores the optimal pricing policy for a seller who participates in such a market.
Toward a Framework for Outcome-Based Analytical Performance Specifications: A Methodology Review of Indirect Methods for Evaluating the Impact of Measurement Uncertainty on Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Smith Alison F , Shinkins Bethany , Hall Peter S , Hulme Claire T , Messenger Mike P
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

For medical tests that have a central role in clinical decision-making, current guidelines advocate outcome-based analytical performance specifications. Given that empirical (clinical trial-style) analyses are often impractical or unfeasible in this context, the ability to set such specifications is expected to rely on indirect studies to calculate the impact of test measurement uncertainty on downstream clinical, operational, and economic outcomes. Currently, however, a lack of awareness and guidance concerning available alternative indirect methods is limiting the production of outcome-based specifications. Therefore, our aim was to review available indirect methods and present an analytical framework to inform future outcome-based performance goals.

CONTENT

A methodology review consisting of database searches and extensive citation tracking was conducted to identify studies using indirect methods to incorporate or evaluate the impact of test measurement uncertainty on downstream outcomes (including clinical accuracy, clinical utility, and/or costs). Eighty-two studies were identified, most of which evaluated the impact of imprecision and/or bias on clinical accuracy. A common analytical framework underpinning the various methods was identified, consisting of 3 key steps: (a) calculation of “true” test values; (b) calculation of measured test values (incorporating uncertainty); and (c) calculation of the impact of discrepancies between (a) and (b) on specified outcomes. A summary of the methods adopted is provided, and key considerations are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

Various approaches are available for conducting indirect assessments to inform outcome-based performance specifications. This study provides an overview of methods and key considerations to inform future studies and research in this area.
Effects of selenium in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis
Authors: Shabalina Elena A. , Fadeyev Valentin V.
Published: August 2019

Background: In the last decades, a number of clinical studies have been conducted where both the positive and neutral effects of Se on thyroid autoimmunity have been demonstrated.
Aims: The aim of our study was to assess the effects of selenmethionine among euthyroid patients with elevated TPO-Ab (TPO > 100 IU/ml) and patients with subclinical hypothyroidism and elevated TPO-Ab.
Materials and methods: 40 euthyroid patients with elevated TPO-Ab and 11 patients with subclinical hypothyroidism plus elevated TPO-Ab were included in our study. Patients of both categories were randomized to recieve Se 200 μg/day or to the dynamic observation. TSH, f. T4, f. T3, AT-TPO were measured at baseline and every 3 months of follow-up. The volume and echogenicity of the thyroid were also evaluated every 3 month of follow-up period (12 month).
Results: There were no significant difference between the groups on the dynamics of TSH, f. T3, f. T4, AT-TPO titers, volume and the echogenicity of the thyroid gland during the whole observational period among euthyroid patients with elevated TPO-Ab. Among the patients with subclinical hypothyroidism there were also no significant difference between the groups on the dynamics of f. T3, f. T4, AT-TPO titers, volume and the echogenicity of the thyroid gland during the whole observational period. But by the 12 month of the follow-up there were significantly more euthyroid patients in Se group compare to dynamic observation group.
Conclusions: Our study, failed to show possitive effects of Se supplementation on thyroid autoimmunity.
Hi-Fi, Lo-Fi, No-Fi, and Wi-Fi Interpretation
Authors: Leone Massimo
Published: August 2019

The article seeks to establish a dialog, from a semiotic point of view, with the grand cartography of methods in literary criticism proposed by Prof. Zhang Jiang in his famous essay “Imposed interpretation.” While acknowledging that Prof. Zhang Jiang identifies the most crucial weak points of the semiotic methodology, the article nevertheless takes these criticisms as occasions to improve the approach of semiotics, as regards especially the following oppositions: diagrammatic over-schematization versus quest for a more judicious application of the method; overenthusiastic adoption of mathematical formulas versus cautious cross-fertilization between humanities and scientific thought; frantic pursuance of theoretical uniformity versus humble acceptance of literary idiosyncrasies; fundamentalist proclamation of the self-reliance of the text versus thoughtful consideration of the evident links between the text and its contexts. This new theoretical approach, wherein traditional semiotics improves itself in dialog with Prof. Zhang Jiang’s criticisms, is exemplified with reference to the concept of interpretive fidelity, which is categorized into different levels and dimensions of adhesion between the textual structure and the discourse of the meta-language interpreting it: hi-fi, low-fi, no-fi, and wi-fi interpretation.
On Sign Lies
Authors: Zhang Suojun , Jia Hongwei
Published: August 2019

People communicate with each other in and by the signs around them. The sender might intentionally or unintentionally tell lies to the addressee through signs in order to achieve special effects or purposes which are contrary to fact or reality. These signs can thus be termed as sign lies. This interview with Prof. Hongwei Jia addresses the nature, property, classification, boundaries, and application of sign lies so as to improve the concept of sign lies proposed by Umberto Eco. Along with some new achievements in the understanding of sign lies, some problems or difficulties that scholars will confront in the coming years are also put forward.
Impact of Harmonics on Power Transformer Losses and Capacity Using Open DSS
Authors: Maan Jaspreet Singh , Singh Sanjeev , Singh Amanpreet
Published: August 2019

Harmonics in the power system are increasing due to increased use of power electronic devices in load. Power electronic devises results in nonlinear loading of the distribution system network creating problem of harmonics. Harmonics effects the distribution transformers in distribution system as well as Power Transformer at the grid substation resulting in more losses, production of extra heat, reduction in efficiency and accelerated ageing of insulation. In this paper a feeder of PSPCL is modelled using EPRI open source distribution system simulator (Open DSS) and effect of harmonics due to nonlinear loading measured from distribution system on the power transformer at grid substation supplying the modelled feeder is evaluated for capacity reduction and loss of life as per IEEE standard C57.110–1998.
A modality-based approach to the United Nations Security Council’s ambiguous positioning in the resolutions on the Syrian armed conflict
Authors: Rosa María Victoria Martín de la , Romero Elena Domínguez
Published: August 2019

This paper examines the role of deontic and epistemic central modality as a discursive strategy to express vagueness in the United Nations Security Council Resolutions on the Syrian armed conflict. The paper follows a corpus-based methodology with a two-fold objective: (i) identification, quantification and analysis of the central modal verbs retrieved from the resolutions, and (ii) the description of the communicative functions performed by these verbs. Our ultimate aim is to reveal the use of deliberate flexible language leading to ambiguous positioning towards the Syrian armed conflict in the United Nations Security Council Resolutions which have been issued since 2012. The consequences associated with the institutional use of flexible language and ambiguous positioning in the resolutions under study will also be accounted for.
Fast converging elitist genetic algorithm for knot adjustment in B-spline curve approximation
Authors: Bureick Johannes , Alkhatib Hamza , Neumann Ingo
Published: August 2019

B-spline curve approximation is a crucial task in many applications and disciplines. The most challenging part of B-spline curve approximation is the determination of a suitable knot vector. The finding of a solution for this multimodal and multivariate continuous nonlinear optimization problem, known as knot adjustment problem, gets even more complicated when data gaps occur. We present a new approach in this paper called an elitist genetic algorithm, which solves the knot adjustment problem in a faster and more precise manner than existing approaches. We demonstrate the performance of our elitist genetic algorithm by applying it to two challenging test functions and a real data set. We demonstrate that our algorithm is more efficient and robust against data gaps than existing approaches.
Efficacy and safety of Achillea wilhelmsii C. Koch capsules on symptom severity and quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Derakhshande Padide , Navabi Seyed Jafar , Shokoohinia Yalda , Rouhi-Broujeni Hojjat , Deris Fateme , Behbood Leila , Shahbazi Foroud , Amiri Mahtab , Farzaei Mohammad Hosein
Published: August 2019

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common digestive diseases. The aim of this clinical trial was to determine the effectiveness of Achillea wilhelmsii C. Koch on the symptom severity and quality of life (QOL) in patients with IBS.

Methods

The patients were randomized into two groups of 45 each. The QOL and symptom severity of the patients were evaluated at baseline and at completion of the treatments by means of IBS-QOL and IBS severity index.

Results

The mean severity of clinical symptoms in the Achillea wilhelmsii C. Koch receiving groups before and after the treatment was 282.56 ± 103.57 and 178.06 ± 88.40, and in the placebo group was 265.93 ± 93.56 and 197.74 ± 106.26, respectively. The mean QOL in the Achillea wilhelmsii C. Koch receiving group before and after treatment was 51.49 ± 11.98 and 50.44 ± 13.39 and in the placebo group was 60.71 ± 11.97 and 58.39 ± 11.67, respectively. In both groups, there was a significant difference in the recovery rate in each group (p<0.05). However, the mean difference between the two groups before and after intervention was not significantly different (p>0.05). Also, no patient reported any adverse events during the trial. Although the symptom severity and QOL in both groups were improved compared to those before intervention, there was no significant difference between the two groups.

Conclusion

It is recommended to conduct future studies with larger sample size and longer treatment periods, and also investigate the efficacy on the IBS subtypes, separately.
Efficacy of osteopathic treatment in patients with stable moderate-to-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Buscemi Andrea , Pennisi Vincenzo , Rapisarda Alessandro , Pennisi Alfio , Coco Marinella
Published: August 2019

Background

This randomized controlled pilot study evaluated the efficacy of osteopathic treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) assessed using spirometry, COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and six minutes walking test (6MWT). The main goals were to improve the quality of life of patients with stable moderate-to-severe COPD, and to revise the parameters of the assessment tests, such as spirometry and 6MWT.

Methods

The study comprised several phases and patients were divided into two groups: group A (controls) received conventional pharmacological treatment with Indacaterol–Glycopyrronium and, while group B (OMT group) received both traditional therapy and osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) at different stages of the study. The osteopathic approach focused on maxillary sinus, vertebral-pleural ligaments, phrenic nerves, ribs, pleura, lungs, bronchi, subclavian muscles, and trapezoid and conoid ligaments.

Results

Overall, 32 patients were randomized and treated. Patients of the OMT group got better improvements in all tests compared to the control group: spirometry: FVC (p<0.5411), total FEV1 (p<0.5061); CAT: OMT (p<0.0005) - controls (p<0.188) 6MWT OMT (p<0.0038) - controls (p<0.5326). The clinical results collected in phase (T3) confirm those obtained in the first sessions; the results of CAT questionnaire (p<0.0005) and 6MWT (p<O, OO38) highlighted score improvements of patients treated with osteopathy compared to patients in the other group.

Conclusions

The results showed that the patients with COPD who received the conventional pharmacological treatment in association with the OMT therapy demonstrated a good response to the osteopathic treatment, thus leading to significant improvements in their health and wellbeing, and a better daily functioning.
Crystal structure of 4,4′-(hydrazonomethylene)diphenol dihydrate, C13H16N2O4
Authors: Li Xia , Liu Shangjun
Published: August 2019

C13H16N2O4, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 13.312(2) Å, b = 8.8222(13) Å, c = 12.4784(18) Å, β = 115.350(2)°, V = 1324.4(3) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0372, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0739, T = 293 K.
The crystal structure of poly [(μ3-N
1,N
4-bis(pyridin-3-yl)cyclohexane-1,4-dicarboxamide-κ3-O:N:N′)-(p-toluenesulfonato-κ2
O,O′)silver(I)], C25H27Ag1N4O5S
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Shuai Wen-Lin , Yang Tao
Published: August 2019

(C25H27AgN4O5S)n, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a =8.4459(2) Å, b = 23.8845(5) Å, c = 13.0653(3) Å, β =105.096(2)°, V = 2544.66(10) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0315, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0689, T = 293(2) K.
Crystal structure of bis[(2-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-methyl-1,3-dioxane-5-carboxylato-κ1
O) (5,5,7,12,12,14-hexamethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane-κ4
N,N′,N′′,N′′′)]nickel(II), C40H60Cl2N4NiO8
Authors: Liao Yang , Yan Rong-Ling
Published: August 2019

C40H60Cl2N4NiO8, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 8.2372(8) Å, b = 9.7100(10) Å, c = 13.7518(14) Å, α = 100.060(1)°, β = 101.854(1)°, γ = 91.675(1)°, V = 1057.48(18) Å3, Z = 1, R
gt(F) = 0.0311, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0761, T = 296(2) K.
The crystal structure of 2,5-dichloroterephthalic acid dihydrate, C8H8Cl2O6
Authors: Du Chao-Jun , Zhu Yuan-Liang , Zeng Yan
Published: August 2019

C8H8Cl2O6, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 10.6836(9) Å, b = 7.2382(6) Å, c = 6.8585(5) Å, β = 92.850(3)°, V = 529.71(7) Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0315, wRref(F2) = 0.0811, T = 150(2) K.
Crystal structure of poly[(μ7-4-(3,5-dicarboxylatophenoxy)phthalato)-(1,10-phenanthroline-κ2
N,N′)dizinc(II)], C28H14N2O9Zn2
Authors: Sun Tao , Li Ke
Published: August 2019

C28H14N2O9Zn2, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 9.6870(5) Å, b = 10.1849(9) Å, c = 12.7338(9) Å, α = 95.202(6)°, β = 107.027(5)°, γ = 91.896(5)°, V = 1193.97(14) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0516, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1267, T = 293(2) K.
Non-cooperative game theory based stepwise power tariff model using Monte-Carle simulation for agricultural consumers
Authors: Talwariya Akash , Singh Pushpendra , Kolhe Mohan
Published: August 2019

In the present study the concept of non-cooperative game theory is proposed in the retail electricity market for introducing stepwise power tariff model (SPT) for agricultural consumers. The objective of the paper is to increase the energy generation through green energy generation sources (GEGS), introduction of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, education of families, standard wiring and appliance efficiency in tariffs for agricultural consumers with non-cooperative game theory. Agricultural consumers are able to generate a huge amount of electricity through GEGS and are able to control the consumption in their own way, and the non-cooperative game theory is introduced. Energy consumption pattern varies with respect to time during off-peak load period to peak load period; during the peak load period the demand is high as compared to off peak load hour duration energy consumption for the consumers and policy makers interrupting the energy supply during peak hours for agricultural consumers. To maintain the balance between generation and consumption, energy saving is essentially required and needs to maintain the consumption patterns and increase the penetration level of distributed generation at the agricultural consumer end due to availability of land. This paper proposes an algorithm for a demand response methodology using SPT with non-cooperative game theory model based on monthly energy consumption to maintain the balance. The uncertainty about energy generation through GEGS taken in consideration using Monte-Carlo simulation (MCS). Simulation results obtained by the proposed methodology are compared with the conventional methodology of energy tariff used in India and provide better results for active consumers and generate a considerable amount of electricity through GEGS.
The adoption of green manure processes applied to vegetable cultivation systems in mountainous environments of Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil
Authors: Antonio Gerson José Yunes , de Assis Renato Linhares , de Aquino Adriana Maria , Rifan Alessandro Melo , Pinto Maria Clara Estoducto
Published: August 2019

The aim of the current article is to analyze the construction process of participative agroecological knowledge in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. The challenges resulting from the climate-related natural disaster-extreme event with heavy rains - that has affected the region in January 2011 were herein highlighted. Local data, a literature review and semi-structured interviews, conducted with participants from the study area, as well as a focus group involving key people, were used to observe social behaviors. Strategies aimed at expanding the adoption of agroecological practices, mainly the practices concerning the use of cover crops, were proposed. The need to adapt to farmers’ time and aspirations, inherent in the technological stage of each farmer, such as the economic gains resulting from the agroecological transition, was shown in the current study.
Determinant Factors of Farmers’ Willingness to Start Agritourism in Rural Nepal
Authors: Bhatta Kumar , Itagaki Keishiro , Ohe Yasuo
Published: August 2019

Agritourism in developing countries is regarded as a tool not only for rural development but also for poverty alleviation. However, up until now, the majority of the studies on agritourism have been conducted in economically strong countries, focusing on already-developed agritourism destinations. Thus, the main objectives of this study were to investigate farmers’ willingness before the establishment of agritourism and the factors that are driving their motivation. The results of an empirical questionnaire survey in rural Nepal conducted in August 2017 revealed that farmers are willing to engage in agritourism. Furthermore, the results indicate that agritourism has a statistical connection with elements related to tourism and an element related to agriculture. Specifically, willingness to start agritourism is connected with the types of tourist attracted and the farmers’ willingness to share land resources. Each factor is further explained by employing three different variables. In summary, those farmers who are 21 to 40 years old, have returned from foreign countries, are frequently involved in community activities, and are relatively educated are the potential agritourism practitioners in rural Nepal. This study suggests that policymakers should pay special consideration to farmers with the above traits for agritourism development.
The effect of horn-manure preparation on enzymes activity and nutrient contents in soil as well as great pumpkin yield
Authors: Juknevičienė Edita , Danilčenko Honorata , Jarienė Elvyra , Fritz Jürgen
Published: August 2019

This investigation was inspired by an increasing global issue on how to improve soil quality while using alternative preparations instead of synthetic fertilizers. The main aim of a three-year study was to investigate the influence of horn-manure preparation on enzyme activity and nutrient content in soil and pumpkin yield. The results showed that significantly higher amounts of P (respectively 106 and 79 mg kg−1 CAL), K (149 and 106 mg kg−1 CAL), nitrogen (5.41 and 3.21 mg kg−1), ammoniacal nitrogen (9.38 and 3.45 mg kg−1) and mineral nitrogen (7.97 and 5.67 mg kg−1) were measured in the plots where the horn-manure preparation was used. A higher activity of the soil enzymes (urease activity was 1.93 times higher and the saccharase activity was 1.05 times higher) were identified with horn-manure. The average soil CO2 flux (Fc) value, when using horn-manure preparation (from 56 till 70 day), was significantly higher by 5.32% in the middle of the growing season. The yield of pumpkin was significantly increased by 18% with horn manure treatments. Significant positive correlations were identified between pumpkin yield and urease activity, and saccharase activity, as well as soil P and K.
Recognition and normalisation of temporal expressions using conditional random fields and cascade of partial rules
Authors: Kocoń Jan , Bernaś Tomasz , Oleksy Marcin
Published: August 2019

This article introduces the issue of recognition and normalisation of temporal expressions for the Polish language. We describe what temporal information is and we present TimeML specification, adapted to Polish as a model for the description of temporal expressions. Classes of temporal expressions are presented as well as guidelines for annotation, normalisation of these expressions and our approach to corpus annotation and temporal expressions recognition. The key aspect of the work is the description of the features used for the recognition, the use of the method for selection and creation of feature templates for the model of Conditional Random Fields. We demonstrate the experiments and conclusions drawn from them.
A Weakly supervised word sense disambiguation for Polish using rich lexical resources
Authors: Janz Arkadiusz , Piasecki Maciej
Published: August 2019

Automatic word sense disambiguation (WSD) has proven to be an important technique in many natural language processing tasks. For many years the problem of sense disambiguation has been approached with a wide range of methods, however, it is still a challenging problem, especially in the unsupervised setting. One of the well-known and successful approaches to WSD are knowledge-based methods leveraging lexical knowledge resources such as wordnets. As the knowledge-based approaches mostly do not use any labelled training data their performance strongly relies on the structure and the quality of used knowledge sources. However, a pure knowledge-base such as a wordnet cannot reflect all the semantic knowledge necessary to correctly disambiguate word senses in text. In this paper we explore various expansions to plWordNet as knowledge-bases for WSD. Semantic links extracted from a large valency lexicon (Walenty), glosses and usage examples, Wikipedia articles and SUMO ontology are combined with plWordNet and tested in a PageRank-based WSD algorithm. In addition, we analyse also the influence of lexical semantics vector models extracted with the help of the distributional semantics methods. Several new Polish test data sets for WSD are also introduced. All the resources, methods and tools are available on open licences.
Topological analysis of the layered uranyl compounds bearing slabs with UO2:TO4ratio of 2:3
Authors: Nazarchuk Evgeny V. , Charkin Dmitri O. , Kozlov Dmitri V. , Siidra Oleg I. , Kalmykov Stepan N.
Published: August 2019

Nine new templated uranyl sulfates and selenates, [(H9O4)2(H2O)][(UO2)2(SO4)3(H2O)2] (H9US), [(C5H7NO)2(H2O)][(UO2)2(SeO4)3(H2O)2](H2O) (OUSe), [C6H6N3][H5O2] [(UO2)2(SeO4)3(H2O)] (BH5USe), [C6H6N3][H7O3][(UO2)2(SO4)3(H2O)](H2O) (BH7US), [C6H16N][H5O2][(UO2)2(SeO4)3(H2O)] (TeH5USe), [C6H18N2][(UO2)2(SO4)3(H2O)] (TmUS), [H5O2]2[(UO2)2(SeO4)3(H2O)](H2O) (H5USe-1), [H5O2]2[(UO2)2(SeO4)3(H2O)2](H2O)9(H5USe-2), and [C4H14N2][(UO2)2(SeO4)3(H2O)](H2O) (DmUSe) have been prepared by isothermal evaporation of aqueous solutions containing extra sulfuric or selenic acid. Their crystal structures can be considered as organo-inorganic hybrids constructed of alternating [(UO2)2(TO4)3(H2O)n]2−slabs (T = Se6+, S6+,n = 1, 2) and layers containing templating organic moieties and/or hydronium ions and water molecules. The organic and inorganic parts of the structures are linked by multiple hydrogen bonds. Besides structure description, we offer topological analysis of the inorganic fragments with UO2:TO4ratio of 2:3 as modular units resulting from self-assembly of fundamental chains formed by [(UO2)2(TO4)2] tetramers andTO4tetrahedra.
Blue Light Increases Neuronal Activity-Regulated Gene Expression in the Absence of Optogenetic Proteins
Authors: Tyssowski Kelsey M. , Gray Jesse M.
Published: August 2019

Optogenetics is widely used to control diverse cellular functions with light, requiring experimenters to expose cells to bright light. Because extended exposure to visible light can be toxic to cells, it is important to characterize the effects of light stimulation on cellular function in the absence of optogenetic proteins. Here we exposed mouse cortical cultures with no exogenous optogenetic proteins to several hours of flashing blue, red, or green light. We found that exposing these cultures to as short as 1 h of blue light, but not red or green light, results in an increase in the expression of neuronal activity-regulated genes. Our findings suggest that blue light stimulation is ill suited to long-term optogenetic experiments, especially those that measure transcription, and they emphasize the importance of performing light-only control experiments in samples without optogenetic proteins.
Large-Scale Networks for Auditory Sensory Gating in the Awake Mouse
Authors: Khani Abbas , Lanz Florian , Loquet Gerard , Schaller Karl , Michel Christoph , Quairiaux Charles
Published: August 2019

The amplitude of the brain response to a repeated auditory stimulus is diminished as compared to the response to the first tone (T1) for interstimulus intervals (ISI) lasting up to hundreds of milliseconds. This adaptation process, called auditory sensory gating (ASG), is altered in various psychiatric diseases including schizophrenia and is classically studied by focusing on early evoked cortical responses to the second tone (T2) using 500-ms ISI. However, mechanisms underlying ASG are still not well-understood. We investigated ASG in awake mice from the brainstem to cortex at variable ISIs (125–2000 ms) using high-density EEG and intracerebral recordings. While ASG decreases at longer ISIs, it is still present at durations (500–2000 ms) far beyond the time during which brain responses to T1 could still be detected. T1 induces a sequence of specific stable scalp EEG topographies that correspond to the successive activation of distinct neural networks lasting about 350 ms. These brain states remain unaltered if T2 is presented during this period, although T2 is processed by the brain, suggesting that ongoing networks of brain activity are active for longer than early evoked-potentials and are not overwritten by an upcoming new stimulus. Intracerebral recordings demonstrate that ASG is already present at the level of ventral cochlear nucleus (vCN) and inferior colliculus and is amplified across the hierarchy in bottom-up direction. This study uncovers the extended stability of sensory-evoked brain states and long duration of ASG, and sheds light on generators of ASG and possible interactions between bottom-up and top-down mechanisms.
Maturation of Brain Microstructure and Metabolism Associates with Increased Capacity for Self-Regulation during the Transition from Childhood to Adolescence
Authors: Baron Nelson Mary , O'Neil Sharon H. , Wisnowski Jessica L. , Hart Danielle , Sawardekar Siddhant , Rauh Virginia , Perera Frederica , Andrews Howard F. , Hoepner Lori A. , Garcia Wanda , Algermissen Molly , Bansal Ravi , Peterson Bradley S.
Published: August 2019

Children ages 9–12 years face increasing social and academic expectations that require mastery of their thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Little is known about the development of neural pathways integral to these improving capacities during the transition from childhood to adolescence. Among 234 healthy, inner-city male and female youth (speciesHomo sapiens) 9–12 years of age followed by the Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health, we acquired diffusion tensor imaging, multiplanar chemical shift imaging, and cognitive measures requiring self-regulation. We found that increasing age was associated with increased fractional anisotropy and decreased apparent diffusion coefficient, most prominently in the frontal and cingulate cortices, striatum, thalamus, deep white matter, and cerebellum. Additionally, we found increasing age was associated with increasedN-acetyl-l-aspartate (NAA) in the anterior cingulate and insular cortices, and decreased NAA in posterior cingulate and parietal cortices. Age-associated changes in microstructure and neurometabolite concentrations partially mediated age-related improvements in performance on executive function tests. Together, these findings suggest that maturation of key regions within cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical circuits subserve the emergence of improved self-regulatory capacities during the transition from childhood to adolescence.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTFew imaging studies of normal brain development have focused on a population of inner-city, racial/ethnic minority youth during the transition from childhood to adolescence, a period when self-regulatory capacities rapidly improve. We used DTI and MPCSI to provide unique windows into brain maturation during this developmental epoch, assessing its mediating influences on age-related improvement in performance on self-regulatory tasks. Our findings suggest that rapid maturation of cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical circuits, represented as progressive white-matter maturation (increasing FA and increasing NAA, Ch, Cr concentrations accompanying advancing age) in frontal regions and related subcortical projections and synaptic pruning (decreasing NAA, Ch, Cr, Glx) in posterior regions, support age-related improvements in executive functioning and self-regulatory capacities in youth 9–12 years of age.
The importance of non-monetary cost in start-up and annual cacao (Theobroma cacao L) production activities in Santander, Colombia
Authors: Zabala Andrés , Fuentes Juan , Castillo Jorge , Roa-Ortiz Santiago
Published: August 2019

Based on a double-phase methodology (grouping by cluster method and costing) the costs of three activities of cacao establishment and annual management in San Vicente de Chucuri and El Carmen de Chucuri (Santander, Colombia) were structured. The grouping phase identified two productive typologies, one with low technification level and another with a medium level; moreover, technification levels were corroborated through cost structuring, in which, for all the activities, the medium technification typology generated higher average values than the low one. General cost structures showed that the most important item is labor, followed by inputs and plant material. The disaggregation of costs into monetary and non-monetary (implicit cost) showed that producers with low technification and low frequency of input use present 35% of non-monetary costs per tree, while producers with some level of crop management and relatively high execution of activities have a slightly higher non-monetary cost, 45% of the average total cost per tree. Within non-monetary costs, the labor (mainly family labor) contributed, on average, to 34% of the total cost structures, which constitutes a risk management factor when defining the financial equilibrium point of the cacao production activity.
Global warming is reducing the tillering capacity and grain yield of wheat in Yaqui Valley, Mexico
Authors: Morales-Coronado Denisse , Argentel-Martínez Leandris , Castro-Espinoza Luciano , Gutiérrez-Coronado Marco , Garibaldi-Chávez Juan , Ortiz-Enríquez José
Published: August 2019

The effect of temperature variations recorded in eight meteorological stations in Yaqui Valley, Sonora, Mexico, on the tillering capacity and grain yield of wheat variety CIRNO C2008 in the growing cycles December 2016-May 2017 and December 2017-May 2018 was studied. In one of the sites, the crop canopy temperature was increased by +2°C with a T-FACE system (warming) based on the temperature recorded in the nearest meteorological station. With the two experimental variants, the abscisic (ABA) and gibberellic (GA) acid hormones were determined during tillering (initial tillering: 30 d after emergence and final tillering: 45 d after emergence) to explain their contribution to the tillering capacity response. A temperature variability of 1°C was observed in the cycle December 2017- May 2018, as compared to the previous cycle and between the evaluated sites. As a result of the temperature increase effect, the tiller number was significantly reduced. The experimental warming caused a highly significant decrease in the ABA content and an increase in the GA. The temperature variation found in Yaqui Valley had a negative and significant correlation with the grain yield in both experiment crop cycles, which demonstrated that global warming is reducing the tillering capacity and grain yield of wheat in Yaqui Valley.