bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rough‐fuzzy quadratic minimum spanning tree problem
Authors: Majumder Saibal , Kar Samarjit , Pal Tandra
Published: January 2019

A quadratic minimum spanning tree problem determines a minimum spanning tree of a network whose edges are associated with linear and quadratic weights. Linear weights represent the edge costs whereas the quadratic weights are the interaction costs between a pair of edges of the graph. In this study, a bi‐objective rough‐fuzzy quadratic minimum spanning tree problem has been proposed for a connected graph, where the linear and the quadratic weights are represented as rough‐fuzzy variables. The proposed model is formulated by using rough‐fuzzy chance‐constrained programming technique. Subsequently, three related theorems are also proposed for the crisp transformation of the proposed model. The crisp equivalent models are solved with a classical multi‐objective solution technique, the epsilon‐constraint method and two multi‐objective evolutionary algorithms: (a) nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA‐II) and (b) multi‐objective cross‐generational elitist selection, heterogeneous recombination, and cataclysmic mutation (MOCHC) algorithm. A numerical example is provided to illustrate the proposed model when solved with different methodologies. A sensitivity analysis of the example is also performed at different confidence levels. The performance of NSGA‐II and MOCHC are analysed on five randomly generated instances of the proposed model. Finally, a numerical illustration of an application of the proposed model is also presented in this study.
Simulation in pharmacy education to enhance interprofessional education
Authors: Kayyali Reem , Harrap Nicola , Albayaty Aiden , Savickas Vilius , Hammell James , Hyatt Francina , Elliott Karen , Richardson Sally
Published: January 2019

Objective

Increased demands from healthcare services have led to new roles for healthcare professionals (HCPs). Simulation based learning (SBL) can offer multidisciplinary HCPs and students a format to train for such emerging roles. The aim of this work was to adapt existing nursing SBL to involve pharmacy students and evaluate perceptions and effectiveness of SBL when used for interprofessional education (IPE).

Methods

Settings were a simulated hospital ward and a general practitioner (GP) practice. Participants were pharmacy and nursing students. Evaluation was by questionnaires and interviews. Ethical approval was obtained from the University Ethics Committee.

Key Findings

A total of 440 students participated. The majority of respondents (317/330;96%) found the sessions useful. All elements were highly rated: briefing (315/340;93%), setting (301/321;94%), scenario (325/338;96%), feedback (303/327;93%), interaction with the “patient” (328/338;97%), interactions with other HCP trainee (293/329;89%). The majority (304/327;93%) agreed that they felt the sessions had enhanced their skills. Significant (p ≤ 0.05) enhancement in communication confidence was perceived by the students. Students gained understanding of each other’s roles, and appreciated practicing communication and teamwork.

Conclusions

Students recognised the importance, usefulness and need for IPE. SBL has the potential to support a variety of HCPs to facilitate uptake of new roles and working in multidisciplinary teams.
Twenty Years After “Absolute Chronology: Archaeological Europe 2500-500 BC”
Authors: Guidi Alessandro
Published: January 2019

The article is a tribute to the pioneering role of Klavs Randsborg in the early Nineties in search for a new comprehensive chronology for Italian and European prehistory based on a combination of dendrodates with C14 dates. The debate of the last 25 years on this matter is presented, demonstrating a scholarly split, in particular in Italy. At the same time, an Italian peculiarity, the presence of layers of volcanic eruptions mixed with archaeological deposits is proposed as a sort of meeting ground for opponents and proponents of absolute chronology and a way to pair it with known cultural phenomena.
Klavs and the Kephallenia Project
Authors: Bintliff John
Published: January 2019

Klavs Randsborg undertook major and influential research in many epochs and countries. The present article focuses on his contribution to the landscape and townscape history of Greece through his impressive and thorough researches on the Ionian island of Kephallenia.
Does interspecific competition change the barley's response and recovery from heat wave?
Authors: Žaltauskaitė Jūratė , Dikšaitytė Austra , Miškelytė Diana , Kacienė Giedrė , Sujetovienė Gintarė , Januškaitienė Irena , Sakalauskienė Sandra , Miliauskienė Jurga , Juknys Romualdas
Published: January 2019

Different species have different sensitivity to heat waves; therefore, interspecific competition may affect the crop response to heat waves. We investigated the effects of heat waves on spring barley (Hordeum vulgareL.) grown with and without wild mustard (Sinapis arvensisL.) as well as the recovery of barleys from stress. The plants were exposed to a 7‐day 35/28ºC (day/night) heat wave at ambient CO2(400 μmol/mol) and elevated CO2(800 μmol/mol). All seedlings were rehydrated and returned to control conditions (21/14ºC, CO2400 μmol/mol) after the cease of heat wave and grown for a 7‐day period of recovery. Heat wave had more pronounced negative effect on the barley's aboveground biomass under competition with mustard, whereas the response of root biomass was not influenced by the presence of weeds. The heat wave induced reductions in barley's photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and water use efficiency under interspecific competition were higher compared to monocultured conditions. Interspecific competition impaired and delayed the recovery of barley's biomass production and leaf gas exchange parameters after heat wave. Elevated CO2slightly mitigated negative heat wave impact on the growth and leaf gas exchange parameters but had no effect during the recovery period.
Gel‐casting of MgAl2O4 transparent ceramics using a common dispersant
Authors: Liu Mengwei , Shimai Shunzo , Zhao Jin , Zhang Jian , Han Dan , Li Yi , Liu Juan , Wang Shiwei
Published: January 2019

The ethanolaminic salt of citric acid (commercial name Dolapix CE 64) has commonly been used as a dispersant for colloidal based ceramic forming process. In this paper, a surprise was presented that MgAl2O4 spinel slurries consisting of MgAl2O4 spinel nanoparticles and Dolapix CE 64 gelled in air at room temperature spontaneously. The MgAl2O4 spinel slurries with high solid loading (54 vol%) were prepared with Dolapix CE 64 and the green body with up to 57% relative density was obtained. MgAl2O4 transparent ceramics with small grain size (0.92 μm) and high transmittance (81.7% at 600 nm) were fabricated after pre‐sintering at 1500°C and hot‐isostatic sintering at 1550°C.
Development costs capitalization and debt financing
Authors: Kreß Andreas , Eierle Brigitte , Tsalavoutas Ioannis
Published: January 2019

This study investigates debt market effects of research and development (R&D) costs capitalization, using a global sample of public bonds and private syndicated loans issued by public non‐financial firms. Firstly, we show that firms capitalize larger amounts of R&D in a year when they exhibit a propensity for issuing bonds, rather than borrowing funds privately from the syndicated loan market, in the subsequent year. Secondly, we provide evidence that capitalized R&D investments reduce the cost of debt. We infer that debt market participants are able to identify firms’ motives for R&D capitalization, as we find a reduction in the cost of debt only for those firms that do not show indications of employing R&D capitalization for earnings management reasons. Indeed, only for this sub‐sample of firms, the amount of capitalized R&D contributes positively to future earnings. We confirm that R&D capitalization is positively associated with audit fees and thus can be deemed to be a signaling device. Lastly, we find that it is the amount of R&D a firm is expected to capitalize and not the discretionary counterparts, which facilitates a firm's access to public debt markets, reduces bond and syndicated loan prices, and contributes to future benefits.
Assessing the environmental and dispersal controls onFagus grandifoliadistributions in the Great Lakes region
Authors: Seeley Megan , Goring Simon , Williams John W.
Published: January 2019

Aim

This paper assesses the relative importance of environmental filtering and dispersal limitations as controls on the western range limit ofFagus grandifolia, a common mesic late‐successional tree species in the easternUnited States. We also test for differences in species–environment relationships between range‐edge populations ofF. grandifoliain eastern Wisconsin and core populations in Michigan. Because environmental conditions between the states differ moderately, while in Michigan dispersal presumably no longer limitsF. grandifoliadistributions,F. grandifoliaoffers a classic case study for biogeographers, foresters, and palaeoecologists interested in understanding processes governing species range limits.

Location

Wisconsin and Michigan,USA.

Taxon

Fagus grandifolia.

Methods

This study combines historical datasets ofF. grandifoliafrom the Public Land Survey, environmental covariates from soil maps and historical climate data, three spatial scenarios of dispersal limitation, and five species distribution models (SDMs). We test dispersal limitation and environmental filtering hypotheses by assessingSDMtransferability between core and edge populations, measuring the importance of dispersal and environmental predictors, and using a residual autocovariate model to test for spatial processes not represented by these predictors.

Results

Fagus grandifoliapresence was best predicted by total snowfall in Michigan and by dispersal, summer precipitation, and potential evapotranspiration (PET) in Wisconsin. Following the addition of dispersal as a predictor, most Wisconsin models improved and spatial autocorrelation effects largely disappeared. Transferability between core and edge populations was moderate to low.

Main conclusions

Both environmental and dispersal limitations appear to govern the western range limit ofF. grandifolia. Species–environment relationships differ between range‐edge and core populations, suggesting either stronger environmental filtering at the range edge or fine‐scale, spatially varying interactions between environmental factors governing moisture availability in core populations. Although lakes, like Lake Michigan, both moderate regional climates and act as dispersal barriers, these effects can be disentangled through the joint analysis ofSDMs and historic observational datasets.
Big data for a large clade: Bioregionalization and ancestral range estimation in the daisy family (Asteraceae)
Authors: McDonald‐Spicer Christiana , Knerr Nunzio J. , Encinas‐Viso Francisco , Schmidt‐Lebuhn Alexander N.
Published: January 2019

Aim

In recent years biogeography has been transformed by the increased availability of large‐scale distributional data, phylogenies, and novel quantitative analysis methods and models. More case studies, however, are needed to test the performance of various approaches, in particular at global scales and in species‐rich groups. In this study, we inferred bioregionalization and estimated ancestral areas for the largest plant family, the Asteraceae.

Location

Global.

Methods

We used the Global Compositae Checklist data to infer Asteraceae bioregions with cluster and modularity analysis. We reconstructed a phylogeny of genus‐terminals for the Asteraceae family from a supermatrix of nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer and chloroplast data. Combining areas based on the bioregions from modularity analysis and the phylogeny, we then estimated ancestral ranges across the Asteraceae phylogeny under 12 biogeographic models.

Results

Cluster analysis resulted in several small bioregions from areas with low taxon numbers and linear and disjunct bioregions between Eurasia and Africa. Modularity analysis produced larger and compact bioregions, and we based downstream analysis on its results. The favoured model for ancestral area estimation was BAYAREALIKE+j+x, demonstrating the importance of long distance dispersal in the biogeographic history of the Asteraceae and a strong distance‐dependence of dispersal.

Main conclusions

Differences between cluster and modularity analysis suggest that the latter may be more robust to incomplete data and produces less disjunct and thus presumably biologically more realistic bioregions. With few exceptions, results of ancestral area estimation confirmed the results of previous studies, in particular South America as the ancestral area of the family, subsequent dispersal to and a secondary radiation from Africa, and the ancestral areas of individual tribes of the family.
Extending phylogeography to account for lineage fusion
Authors: Garrick Ryan C. , Banusiewicz John D. , Burgess Stephanie , Hyseni Chaz , Symula Rebecca E.
Published: January 2019

Secondary contact between long isolated populations has several possible outcomes. These include the strengthening of preexisting reproductive isolating mechanisms via reinforcement, the emergence of a hybrid lineage that is distinct from its extant parental lineages and which occupies a spatially restricted zone between them, or complete merging of two populations such that parental lineages are no longer extant (“lineage fusion” herein). The latter scenario has rarely been explicitly considered in single‐species and comparative phylogeographic studies, yet it has the potential to impact inferences about population history and levels of congruence. In this paper, we explore the idea that insights into past lineage fusion may now be possible, owing to the advent of next‐generation sequencing. Using simulated DNA sequence haplotype datasets (i.e., loci with alleles comprised of a set of linked nucleotide polymorphisms), we examined basic requirements (number of loci and individuals sampled) for identifying cases when a present‐day panmictic population is the product of lineage fusion, using an exemplar statistical framework—approximate Bayesian computation. We found that with approximately 100 phased haplotype loci (each 400 bp long) and modest sample sizes of individuals (10 per population), lineage fusion can be detected under rather challenging scenarios. This included some scenarios where reticulation was fully contained within a Last Glacial Maximum timeframe, provided that mixing was symmetrical, ancestral gene pools were moderately to deeply diverged, and the lag time between the fusion event and gene pool sampling was relatively short. However, the more realistic case of asymmetrical mixing is not prohibitive if additional genetic data (e.g., 400 loci) are available. Notwithstanding some simplifying assumptions of our simulations and the knowledge gaps that remain about the circumstances under which lineage fusion is potentially detectable, we suggest that the recent release from data limitation allows phylogeographers to expand the scope of inferences about long‐term population history.
Underestimated and cryptic diversification patterns across Afro‐tropical lowland forests
Authors: Huntley Jerry W. , Keith Katrina D. , Castellanos Adrian A. , Musher Lukas J. , Voelker Gary
Published: January 2019

Aim

Vertebrate diversity in the Guineo‐Congolian forests (GCF) of Africa is high, yet mechanisms responsible for generating that diversity remain remarkably understudied. These forests have alternatively been viewed as centres of diversification (“cradles”) or more recently, as the opposite (“museums”). Here, we use a comparative dataset of avian and mammalian species to examine genetic diversification patterns across these forests and use these results to explain observed patterns in light of Plio‐Pleistocene climatic change and life‐history.

Location

Africa.

Methods

We analysed patterns of diversification across the GCF using a dataset composed of 629 and 1,048 mitochondrial sequences from 60 avian and 36 mammalian species, respectively. Uncorrected pairwise genetic distances were compared at three distinct geographical levels: west versus east of the Dahomey Gap, among the three major forest blocks, and among seven historical refugial areas. The timing of diversification was assessed for passerines, Rodentia, and Chiroptera.

Results

We found substantial signatures of diversification in all three levels of our geographical comparisons. We recovered substantial disparity in the amount and depth of structure of diversification patterns between low dispersers (understorey birds and rodents) and more capable dispersers (other bird species and bats). Additionally, our chronogram recovered recent speciation and intraspecific diversification across songbird and mammalian lineages.

Main conclusions

The discrete, and often deep, structuring of genetic diversification for both birds and mammals across the GCF revealed strong correlations between historic landscape fragmentation and dispersal ability. Our results revealed a striking amount of unrecognized genetic diversity, which may be suggestive of cryptic species. Given the rate at which these forests are being negatively impacted by human intervention, our general lack of knowledge concerning vertebrate diversity across these forests may very well impact our ability to identify evolutionary processes underlying diversity and enact meaningful conservation efforts in the future.
Molecular biomarkers in cardiac hypertrophy
Authors: Zhu Liu , Li Chao , Liu Qiang , Xu Weiting , Zhou Xiang
Published: January 2019

Cardiac hypertrophy is characterized by an increase in myocyte size in the absence of cell division. This condition is thought to be an adaptive response to cardiac wall stress resulting from the enhanced cardiac afterload. The pathogenesis of heart dysfunction, which is one of the primary causes of morbidity and mortality in elderly people, is often associated with myocardial remodelling caused by cardiac hypertrophy. In order to well understand the potential mechanisms, we described the molecules involved in the development and progression of myocardial hypertrophy. Increasing evidence has indicated that micro‐RNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac hypertrophy. In addition, molecular biomarkers including vascular endothelial growth factor B, NAD‐dependent deacetylase sirtuin‐3, growth/differentiation factor 15 and glycoprotein 130, also play important roles in the development of myocardial hypertrophy. Knowing the regulatory mechanisms of these biomarkers in the heart may help identify new molecular targets for the treatment of cardiac hypertrophy.
Toward Theoretical and Methodological Innovations in the Evidence Base for Family Policy: A Commentary
Authors: Lerner Richard M. , Chase Paul A.
Published: January 2019

Ooms () points to the importance of having a conceptual framework that would enable family policy scholars to resolve past tensions in the field and create an opportunity to advance research and its applications. We discuss that a now‐predominant metatheoretical orientation in the study of human development, relational developmental systems metatheory, provides concepts that enable issues in the field of family policy (e.g., individualism vs. familism) to be resolved and also to point to theory‐predicated methodological innovations advancing research pertinent to family policy. This linkage among metatheory, theory, and method may enable family policy scholars to generate an evidence base about how to enhance the quality of life of diverse families.
Usefulness of newly modified fully covered metallic stent of 12 mm in diameter and anti‐migration feature for periampullary malignant biliary strictures: Comparison with conventional standard metal stent
Authors: Lee Hyun Woo , Moon Jong Ho , Lee Yun Nah , Lee Tae Hoon , Choi Moon Han , Cha Sang‐Woo , Cho Young Deok , Park Sang‐Heum
Published: January 2019

Backgrounds

Fully covered self‐expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) are preferred for distal malignant biliary stricture (MBS). However, stent migration is a major adverse event of FCSEMS, especially for far distal MBS. We evaluated the usefulness of newly modified FCSEMS (M‐FCSEMS) having 12 mm in diameter and anti‐migration feature to minimize stent migration compared with the conventional FCSEMS (C‐FCSEMS).

Methods

Total 102 patients were enrolled between January 2015 and September 2017 in this prospective comparative study; 50 were allocated to the M‐FCSEMS group and 52 to the C‐FCSEMS group. The primary outcome was stent migration, and the secondary outcomes were other adverse events, stent occlusion rate, and stent patency during the follow‐up period.

Results

The baseline characteristics of the two groups did not significantly differ. Endoscopic stent placement was technically successful in all patients. Stent migration occurred in 8.0% (4/50) of the patients in the M‐FCSEMS group and 23.1% (12/52) of those in the C‐FCSEMS group (P = 0.036). The other adverse events, including stent‐related pancreatitis and cholecystitis did not significantly differ between the two groups (P = 0.415). Stent occlusion occurred in 23.9% (11/46) of the patients in the M‐FCSEMS group and 37.5% (15/40) in the C‐FCSEMS group (P = 0.171). Stent patency was significantly longer in the M‐FCSEMS group than in the C‐FCSEMS group (228 vs 157 days, P = 0.048).

Conclusions

Modified FCSEMS with 12‐mm diameter and anti‐migration feature significantly decreased the risk of stent migration and had longer patency compared with C‐FCSEMS in patients with periampullary MBS.
Feasibility and effectiveness of pre‐emptive rehabilitation in persons approaching dialysis (PREHAB)
Authors: Willingham Fiona C. , Speelman Irene , Hamilton Joanne , von Fragstein Gillian , Shaw Susan , Taal Maarten W.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

End‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) is characterised by several complications, leading to reduced functional ability and quality of life during transition to dialysis. This study aimed to establish the feasibility and effectiveness of a patient‐centred programme of exercise, nutritional intervention and multidisciplinary education for persons approaching dialysis.

Methods

Patients with eGFR <15 ml/min/1.73 m2 and anticipated to start dialysis within 6–12 months were invited to participate. The 10‐week pre‐dialysis intervention included a weekly 1‐hour gym‐based exercise circuit and an education programme. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed through recruitment and retention rates, adherence to the intervention, and from patient feedback following the intervention. Physical function, nutritional status, and anxiety and depression, were assessed at baseline, after intervention, and as dialysis commenced.

Results

Thirty patients agreed to participate, with 22 completing the pre‐dialysis intervention. Thirteen (59%) participants achieved 100% attendance at the exercise and education sessions, with only two participants attending less than 8/10 sessions. The intervention also led to improved physical function, demonstrated by significant increase in both incremental shuttle walk distance (330 vs. 385 m, p = 0.006) and quadriceps one repetition maximum (p = 0.007), and a trend towards increased sit‐to‐stand repetitions (20–23, p = 0.11). There was a trend for improved patient perception of activity (Duke Activity Status Index score 31.55 vs. 33.75, p = 0.09). Hand grip strength (29.1 vs. 29.8 kg), body mass index (30.4 vs. 30.5 kg/m2) and nutritional status assessed by subjective global assessment (73% well‐nourished) were maintained.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of a patient‐centred exercise and education programme in those approaching dialysis. Further research is therefore required to evaluate the impact of this programme on clinical outcomes.
The Contributions of Conversation Analysis and Interactional Linguistics to a Usage‐Based Understanding of Language: Expanding the Transdisciplinary Framework
Authors: HALL JOAN KELLY
Published: January 2019

A key insight of a transdisciplinary perspective on second language acquisition (SLA) as articulated by the Douglas Fir Group (2016) is its usage‐based understanding of language. Evidence on the fundamental role that usage plays in shaping individual language knowledge is no doubt compelling. However, while the force of social interaction in shaping language knowledge is acknowledged, missing are specifications of the jointly constructed actions and courses of action comprising social contexts of use. Also missing is a reconsideration of key SLA concepts engendered by a usage‐based understanding of language. The intent of this paper is to redress these limitations. First, I summarize the research programs of conversation analysis and interactional linguistics, which take as their central task the specifications of the jointly constructed actions and courses of action comprising social contexts and thus significantly enhance a usage‐based understanding of language. Then, arguing that more suitable conceptual tools are needed to better capture current understandings of language knowledge and objects of L2 learning, I offer repertoire, semiotic resources, and register as alternative terms to competence and grammar. I conclude with a proposal for a Conversation Analysis/Interactional Linguistics‐based research program for further advancing understandings of SLA and transforming understandings of L2 pedagogy.
Globular glial tauopathy Type II: Clinicopathological study of two autopsy cases
Authors: Tanaka Hidetomo , Kawakatsu Shinobu , Toyoshima Yasuko , Miura Takeshi , Mezaki Naomi , Mano Atsushi , Sanpei Kazuhiro , Kobayashi Ryota , Hayashi Hiroshi , Otani Koichi , Ikeuchi Takeshi , Onodera Osamu , Kakita Akiyoshi , Takahashi Hitoshi
Published: January 2019

Globular glial tauopathies (GGTs) are four‐repeat tauopathies characterized by the presence of two types of tau‐positive globular glial inclusions (GGIs): globular oligodendrocytic and astrocytic inclusions (GOIs and GAIs). GGTs are classified into three different neuropathological subtypes: Types I, II and III. We report two patients with GGTs – a 76‐year‐old woman and a 70‐year‐old man – in whom the disease duration was 5 and 6 years, respectively. Both patients exhibited upper and lower motor neuron signs and involuntary movements, and the latter also had dementia with frontotemporal cerebral atrophy evident on magnetic resonance imaging. Neuropathologically, in both cases, the precentral gyrus was most severely affected, and at the gray‐white matter junction there was almost complete loss of Betz cells and occurrence of GOIs and coiled bodies with numerous neuropil threads. Both patients also showed neuronal loss and GGIs (mostly GOIs) in many other central nervous system regions, including the basal ganglia. Apart from the degree of regional severity, the distribution pattern was essentially the same in both cases. However, GAIs were not conspicuous in any of the affected regions. Based on the morphology and distribution pattern of the GGIs, we diagnosed the present two patients as having GGT Type II. Electron microscopic and biochemical findings in the former were consistent with the diagnosis. Type II cases are reported to be characterized by pyramidal features reflecting predominant motor cortex and corticospinal tract degeneration. The present observations suggest that a variety of neurological features, including dementia, can occur in GGT Type II reflecting widespread degeneration beyond the motor neuron system.
Immigrants’ Wage Growth and Selective Out‐Migration
Authors: Bijwaard Govert E. , Wahba Jackline
Published: January 2019

This paper examines immigrant wage growth taking selective out‐migration into account using administrative data from the Netherlands. Addressing a limitation in the previous literature, we address the potential endogeneity of immigrants’ labour supply and out‐migration decisions on their earning profiles using a correlated competing risk model. We distinguish between labour and family migrants, given their different labour market and out‐migration behaviours. Our findings show that accounting for selective labour supply is as important as accounting for selective out‐migration. Controlling only for out‐migration selectivity would underestimate immigrants’ wage growth, whilst controlling only for labour market selectivity would overestimate their wage growth. This shows that different selections are important for different types of migrants.
Genetic analysis of gene‐specific resistance to mungbean yellow mosaic virus in mungbean (Vigna radiata)
Authors: Bhanu Akhouri Nishant , Singh Mahendra Narain , Srivastava Kartikeya
Published: January 2019

Six intervarietal crosses involving two resistant and three susceptible genotypes of mungbean were attempted with the objectives to determine the mode of inheritance of gene‐specific Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus (MYMV) resistance. An infector row technique along with artificial inoculation was used for evaluating parents, F1, F2 and F3 plants for MYMV resistance. Disease scoring for MYMV indicated that F1s were highly susceptible as were the susceptible parents while resistant parent exhibited resistant reaction. The F2 progeny segregated in the ratio of 9 S:3 MS:3 MR:1 R suggesting that the resistance was governed by digenic recessive genes (rm1 and rm2). When one gene (rm1) was present in the homozygous recessive condition in different plants, it conferred moderately susceptible (MS) reaction, whereas when other gene (rm2) was in homozygous condition, moderately resistant (MR) reaction was obvious. When both genes (rm1 and rm2) were present together in the homozygous recessive condition, resistant reaction (R) was observed. The F2 segregation explained on the basis of phenotypic expression was further confirmed by F3 segregation.
The Influence of Feelings While Driving Regular Cars on the Perception and Acceptance of Self‐Driving Cars
Authors: Raue Martina , D'Ambrosio Lisa A. , Ward Carley , Lee Chaiwoo , Jacquillat Claire , Coughlin Joseph F.
Published: January 2019

Self‐driving vehicles will affect the future of transportation, but factors that underlie perception and acceptance of self‐driving cars are yet unclear. Research on feelings as information and the affect heuristic has suggested that feelings are an important source of information, especially in situations of complexity and uncertainty. In this study (N = 1,484), we investigated how feelings related to traditional driving affect risk perception, benefit perception, and trust related to self‐driving cars as well as people's acceptance of the technology. Due to limited experiences with and knowledge of self‐driving cars, we expected that feelings related to a similar experience, namely, driving regular cars, would influence judgments of self‐driving cars. Our results support this assumption. While positive feelings of enjoyment predicted higher benefit perception and trust, negative affect predicted higher risk and higher benefit perception of self‐driving cars. Feelings of control were inversely related to risk and benefit perception, which is in line with research on the affect heuristic. Furthermore, negative affect was an important source of information for judgments of use and acceptance. Interest in using a self‐driving car was also predicted by lower risk perception, higher benefit perception, and higher levels of trust in the technology. Although people's individual experiences with advanced vehicle technologies and knowledge were associated with perceptions and acceptance, many simply have never been exposed to the technology and know little about it. In the absence of this experience or knowledge, all that is left is the knowledge, experience, and feelings they have related to regular driving.
Explaining the effect of financial development on the quality of property rights
Authors: Banerjee Chandramouli , Bose Niloy , Rath Chitralekha
Published: January 2019

Empirical evidence suggests that financial development can catalyze property rights reforms. This paper offers a theory of financial markets to explain these facts defining the relationship. The explanation is based on a simple trade‐off between the costs and the benefits of securing property. Securing the right to property at a cost allows agents to post collateral against loans. However, the benefits of collateral vary according to the existing credit market conditions, which we take into account in the tradeoff between the costs and the benefits of securing property rights along the path of financial development to explain the conditions under which financial development can create incentives for better property rights institutions.
Visualizing Spatiotemporal Models with Virtual Reality: from Fully Immersive Environments to Applications in Stereoscopic View
Authors: Castruccio Stefano , Genton Marc G. , Sun Ying
Published: January 2019

Recent advances in computing hardware and software present an unprecedented opportunity for statisticians who work with data indexed in space and time to visualize, explore and assess the structure of the data and to improve resulting statistical models. We present results of a 3-year collaboration with a team of visualization experts on the use of stereoscopic view and virtual reality (VR) to visualize spatiotemporal data with animations on non-trivial manifolds. We first present our experience with fully immersive VR with motion tracking devices that enable users to explore global three-dimensional time–temperature fields on a spherical shell interactively. We then introduce a suite of applications with VR mode, freely available for smartphones, to port a visualization experience to any interested people. We also discuss recent work with head-mounted devices such as a VR headset with motion tracking sensors.
Evaluation of art subjects implemented in the marquetry technique by the optical coherence microscopy method
Authors: Gurov Igor , Margaryants Nikita , Zhukova Ekaterina
Published: January 2019

Evaluation of internal microstructure of decorative and applied art objects implemented in the intarsia and marquetry techniques by the optical coherence tomography method is considered. The high resolving optical coherence microscope with a radiation source with tunable wavelength in the range of 1305 ± 75 nm was applied. The ability to analyse layered microstructure of wood object surface layer in intarsia regions is demonstrated. The geometric features evaluation of the object's microstructure in the areas of interest was conducted. Systematisation of layers structure and typical defects inherent in intarsia regions was performed considering the structural features that may be important for restoration of such objects. Examples of experimentally obtained B‐scans and three‐dimensional representations of sample fragments of microstructure studied by the optical coherence microscopy method are given.
Development and Operationalization of Solar-Assisted Rapid Bulk Milk Cooler
Authors: Shekhawat Jitender Singh , Sharma Dilip , Poonia M. P. , Raj Singh Hemant
Published: January 2019

This work aims at providing insight into developmental and operational experience of an innovative milk cooler which uses solar thermal energy for cooling of fresh milk by way of vapor absorption refrigeration system (VARS). The system uses CPC solar collector(s) producing medium temperature that is desired to provide required thermal energy to the generator of VARS. However, mismatch between the time of availability of solar energy and cooling period of milk raises a demand of integrating thermal storage to this system for use of thermal energy at appropriate times. The novelty of this work is the development of experimental setup and its operation as innovative design to meet the requirement and possible model for the industry to operate and grow using the suggested system. The design, while addressing the problem of grass root level people for generation of income, also helps in reducing the carbon footprint of milk industry, and in the world environment as a whole.
Synergistic Inhibition Effect of Organic Salt and Polyamine on Water-Sensitive Shale Swelling and Dispersion
Authors: Wang Gui , Du Hui , Jiang Shuxian
Published: January 2019

Drilling fluid with strong inhibition performance is crucial in drilling water-sensitive shale formations. An organic salt compound and polyamine were tested for their ability to inhibit shale swelling and dispersion, both individually and in combination. The linear shale swelling rate can be suppressed to less than 20% when the inhibitors are combined, and the hot rolling recovery rate of shale cuttings can improve up to 85%. The interlamellar spacing d001, zeta potential, particle size distribution, water activity, and adsorptive capacity of clays were tested to determine the suppression mechanism of the shale inhibitors. These results show that the organic salt YJS-2 functioned remarkably in crystal lattice fixation, electric double-layer compression, adjustment of water activity, and enhancement of polymer adsorption onto the clay particle surface. Polyamine can enter the clay mineral interlayer and compress the electric double-layer to some extent. It can also synergistically function with YJS-2. Therefore, a combination of these two shale inhibitors worked synergistically to provide crystal lattice fixation, electric double-layer compression, water activity adjustment, adsorption on the surface of clay particles, and encapsulation.
Performance Effects of Leading Edge Tubercles on the NREL Phase VI Wind Turbine Blade
Authors: Abate Giada , Mavris Dimitri N. , Sankar Lakshmi N.
Published: January 2019

Several studies on wind energy have been conducted to find possible solutions to power issues related to the variable nature of the wind. One of the most promising seems to be the application of sinusoidal modifications (tubercles) on the leading edge of wind turbine blades. In the present work, a systematic study on the effects of different tubercle configurations on NREL phase VI wind turbine performance is conducted. A design of experiments is used to generate blades with different tubercle amplitude and wavelength that are then simulated by a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis. The resulting power and annual energy production (AEP) are compared with the baseline values noticing a positive effect of tubercles on the power at high wind speeds.
A Proposed Biodiesel Combustion Kinetics Based on the Computational Fluid Dynamics Results in an Ignition Quality Tester
Authors: Elhalwagy Mahmoud , Zhang Chao
Published: January 2019

In this paper, five biodiesel global combustion decomposition steps are added to a surrogate mechanism to accurately represent the chemical kinetics of the decomposition of different levels of saturation of biodiesel, which are represented by five major fatty acid methyl esters. The reaction constants were tuned based on the results from the numerical simulations of the combustion process in an ignition quality tester (IQT) in order to obtain accurate cetane numbers. The prediction of the complete thermophysical properties of the five constituents is also carried out to accurately represent the physics of the spray and vaporization processes. The results indicated that the combustion behavior is controlled more by the spray and breakup processes for saturated biodiesel constituents than by the chemical delay, which is similar to the diesel fuel combustion behavior. The chemical delay and low temperature reactions were observed to have greater effects on the combustion and ignition delay for the cases of the unsaturated biodiesels. The comparison between the physical ignition delay and overall ignition delay between the saturated and unsaturated biodiesel constituents has also confirmed those stronger effects for the physical delay in the saturated compounds as compared to the unsaturated compounds. The validation of the proposed model is conducted for the simulations of two direct injection diesel engines using palm methyl ester and rape methyl ester.
The Rate-Controlled Constrained-Equilibrium Combustion Modeling of n-Pentane/Oxygen/Diluent Mixtures
Authors: Du Linghao , Yu Guangying , Wang Ziyu , Metghalchi Hameed
Published: January 2019

Rate-controlled constrained equilibrium (RCCE) is a reduction technique used to describe the time evolution of complex chemical reacting systems. This method is based on the assumption that a nonequilibrium system can reach its final equilibrium state by a series of RCCE states determined by maximizing entropy or minimizing relevant free energy. Those constraints are imposed by some small number of slow reactions. Much research has been done on this method and many RCCE models of C1−C4 hydrocarbon fuel combustion have been established by the previous researchers. Those models show good performance compared with the result of detailed kinetic model (DKM). In this study, RCCE method is further developed to model normal pentane (n-C5H12) combustion with least number of constraints. The chemical mechanism for DKM contains 133 species and 922 reactions. Two sets of constraints were found during the study: (1) 16 constraints for the normal pentane and pure oxygen mixture and (2) 14 constraints for the mixture of normal pentane and oxygen with argon as diluent. Results of the first constraint set were compared with result of DKM and results of the second constraint set were compared with those of DKM and experimental data by calculating their ignition delay times. Comparisons showed that the first set of constraints had relatively good accuracy and the second set of constraints agreed very well with the experimental data.
Resilience and Assemblage of Soil Microbiome in Response to Chemical Contamination Combined with Plant Growth
Authors: Jiao Shuo , Chen Weimin , Wei Gehong
Published: January 2019

Exploring the microbial responses to environmental disturbances is a central issue in microbial ecology. Understanding the dynamic responses of soil microbial communities to chemical contamination and the microbe-soil-plant interactions is essential for forecasting the long-term changes in soil ecosystems. Nevertheless, few studies have applied multi-omics approaches to assess the microbial responses to soil contamination and the microbe-soil-plant interactions at the taxonomic and functional levels simultaneously. Our study reveals clear succession and resilience patterns of soil microbial diversity and structure in response to chemical contamination. Different legume plants exerted stronger selection processes on taxonomic than on functional profiles in contaminated soils, which could benefit plant growth and fitness as well as foster the potential abilities of hydrocarbon degradation and metal tolerance. These results provide new insight into the resilience and assemblage of soil microbiome in response to environmental disturbances in agro-ecosystems at the species and functional levels.
Sucrose Metabolism in Haloarchaea: Reassessment Using Genomics, Proteomics, and Metagenomics
Authors: Williams Timothy J. , Allen Michelle A. , Liao Yan , Raftery Mark J. , Cavicchioli Ricardo
Published: January 2019

Our ability to infer the function that microorganisms perform in the environment is predicated on assumptions about metabolic capacity. When genomic or metagenomic data are used, metabolic capacity is inferred from genetic potential. Here, we investigate the pathways by which haloarchaea utilize sucrose. The canonical haloarchaeal pathway for fructose metabolism involving ketohexokinase occurs only in a small proportion of haloarchaeal genomes and is underrepresented in metagenomes. Instead, fructokinase genes are present in the majority of genomes/metagenomes. In addition to genomic and metagenomic analyses, we used proteomic analysis of
Halohasta litchfieldiae
(which encodes fructokinase but lacks ketohexokinase) and identified changes in protein abundance that related to growth on sucrose. In this way, we identified novel proteins implicated in sucrose metabolism in haloarchaea, comprising a transporter and various catabolic enzymes (including proteins that are annotated as hypothetical).
Development of Aspirin-Inducible Biosensors in
Escherichia coli
and SimCells
Authors: Chen Jack Xiaoyu , Steel Harrison , Wu Yin-Hu , Wang Yun , Xu Jiabao , Rampley Cordelia P. N. , Thompson Ian P. , Papachristodoulou Antonis , Huang Wei E.
Published: January 2019

An aspirin-inducible SalR/

P
sal

regulation system, originally from
Acinetobacter baylyi
ADP1, has been designed for
E. coli
strains. SalR is a typical LysR-type transcriptional regulator (LTTR) family protein and activates the

P
sal

promoter in the presence of aspirin or salicylate in the range of 0.05 to 10 µM. The experimental results and mathematical simulations support the competitive binding model of the SalR/

P
sal

regulation system in which SalR
r
competes with SalR
a
to bind the

P
sal

promoter and affect gene transcription. The competitive binding model successfully predicted that weak SalR expression would significantly improve the inducible strength of the SalR/

P
sal

regulation system, which is confirmed by the experimental results. This provides an important mechanism model to fine-tune transcriptional regulation of the LTTR family, which is the largest family of transcriptional regulators in the prokaryotic kingdom. In addition, the SalR/

P
sal

regulation system was also functional in probiotic strain
E. coli
Nissle 1917 and minicell-derived SimCells, which would be a useful biobrick for environmental and medical applications.
Antigenicity and Immunogenicity of Differentially Glycosylated Hepatitis C Virus E2 Envelope Proteins Expressed in Mammalian and Insect Cells
Authors: Urbanowicz Richard A. , Wang Ruixue , Schiel John E. , Keck Zhen-yong , Kerzic Melissa C. , Lau Patrick , Rangarajan Sneha , Garagusi Kyle J. , Tan Lei , Guest Johnathan D. , Ball Jonathan K. , Pierce Brian G. , Mariuzza Roy A. , Foung Steven K. H. , Fuerst Thomas R.
Published: January 2019

The development of a vaccine for hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a global health challenge. A major challenge for vaccine development is focusing the immune response on conserved regions of the HCV envelope protein, E2, capable of eliciting neutralizing antibodies. Modification of E2 by glycosylation might influence the immunogenicity of E2. Accordingly, we performed molecular and immunogenic comparisons of E2 produced in mammalian and insect cells. Mass spectrometry demonstrated that the predicted glycosylation sites were utilized in both mammalian and insect cell E2, although the glycan types in insect cell E2 were smaller and less complex. Mouse immunogenicity studies revealed similar polyclonal antibody responses. However, insect cell E2 induced stronger neutralizing antibody responses against the homologous isolate used in the vaccine, albeit the two proteins elicited comparable neutralization titers against heterologous isolates. A more productive approach for vaccine development may be complete deletion of specific glycans in the E2 protein.
Adenosine Deaminase Acting on RNA 1 Associates with Orf Virus OV20.0 and Enhances Viral Replication
Authors: Liao Guan-Ru , Tseng Yeu-Yang , Tseng Ching-Yu , Lin Fong-Yuan , Yamada Yumiko , Liu Hao-Ping , Kuan Chih-Ying , Hsu Wei-Li
Published: January 2019

Viruses evolve specific strategies to counteract host innate immunity. ORFV, an important zoonotic pathogen, encodes OV20.0 to suppress PKR activation via multiple mechanisms, including interactions with PKR and two PKR activators. In this study, we demonstrated that OV20.0 interacts with ADAR1, a cellular enzyme responsible for converting adenosine (A) to inosine (I) in RNA. The RNA binding domains, but not the catalytic domain, of ADAR1 are required for this interaction. The OV20.0-ADAR1 association affects the functions of both proteins; OV20.0 suppressed the A-to-I editing of ADAR1, while ADAR1 elevated OV20.0 expression. The proviral role of ADAR1 is likely due to the inhibition of PKR phosphorylation. As RNA editing by ADAR1 contributes to the stability of the genetic code and the structure of RNA, these observations suggest that in addition to serving as a PKR inhibitor, OV20.0 might modulate ADAR1-dependent gene expression to combat antiviral responses or achieve efficient viral infection.