bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Four Pyrenula species new to China
Authors: Fu Jie-Meng , Aptroot André , Wang Zhong-Liang , Zhang Lu-Lu
Published: March 2019

Pyrenula brunnea, P. punctella, P. subducta, and P. submastophora are reported for the first time from China. This increases the number of Pyrenula species known from China to 46. Descriptions and distribution of the four species are given.
Contributions to species of Xylariales in China—2. Rosellinia pervariabilis and R. tetrastigmae spp. nov., and a new record of R. caudata
Authors: Xie Xin , Liu Lili , Zhang Xu , Long Qingde , Shen Xiangchun , Boonmee Saranyaphat , Kang Jichuan , Li Qirui
Published: March 2019

Three species of Rosellinia collected from China are reported based on morphological and molecular characteristics. Rosellinia pervariabilis is proposed as a new species, differentiated by its narrow ascospores (19.5–24.5 × 4–5 μm) without a germ slit.
Rosellinia tetrastigmae is also proposed as new and differentiated by its small stromata. Rosellinia caudata is reported as a new record from the Chinese mainland. Detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations are provided, and many new DNA sequences are cited.
Catalog of Penicillium spp. causing blue mold of bulbs, roots, and tubers
Authors: Dugan Frank M. , Strausbaugh Carl A.
Published: March 2019

Accuracy in assigning specific epithets to Penicillium isolates documented as agents of blue mold of edible and ornamental bulb, root, and tuber crops is highly variable—with methods ranging from appropriate (recent morpho-cultural criteria, metabolite production, DNA sequences),
to plausible (older morpho-cultural criteria from monographs), to suspect (unspecified methods, identification via inappropriate literature). We provide a catalogue appropriate for plausibly assigned names accompanied by authorities, references, host distribution, and identification methodology.
Names are categorized according to (i) segregates of P. corymbiferum (i.e., names in P. subg. Penicillium) and taxa in P. ser.Corymbifera associated with Liliaceae s.l.; (ii) taxa in P. subg. Penicillium other than P. ser. Corymbifera
associated with Liliaceae s.l.; (iii) taxa other than P. subg. Penicillium associated with Liliaceae s.l.; (iv) associates of Beta vulgaris (beets and sugar beets); and (v) associates of mostly tropical or subtropical roots and tubers. Ambiguities or deficiencies
in assignment of certain specific epithets are noted.
A Checklist of the Non-gilled Fleshy Fungi (basidiomycota) of Kerala State, India
Authors: Kumar Arun T.K. , Thomas Anjitha , Kuniyil Krishnapriya , Nanu Salna , Nellipunath Vinjusha
Published: March 2019

Mycotaxon is pleased to add to our ‘web-list’ page the following new annotated species distribution list under Asia (India): A checklist of the non-gilled fleshy fungi (Basidiomycota) of Kerala State, India by T.K. Arun Kumar, Anjitha Thomas, Krishnapriya Kuniyil,
Salna Nanu, Vinjusha Nellipunath. This brings to 131 the number of free access Fungae now available on our website: http://www.mycotaxon.com/mycobiota/index.html
Comparison of Simulation and Hands-on Labs in Helping High School Students Learn Physics Concepts
Authors: Rytting Matt , Wright Geoff , Shumway Steven , Jensen Jamie
Published: March 2019

The purpose of the research was to determine whether PhET simulation labs or hands-on labs were more effective in helping students learn physics concepts. This measure was done by comparing quiz scores using recall, calculation, and transfer questions. Additionally, student perceptions of learning from both hands-on and simulation lab experiences were measured. Six labs were conducted with high school physics students on the topics of momentum, energy, circuits, angular momentum, pendulums, and friction. It was found that PhET simulation labs were as effective at creating student understanding, and sometimes more effective, as measured by quizzes given after the labs. Additionally, the survey data revealed that students were more engaged by hands-on lab experiences, and viewed the hands-on labs to be more effective than the simulation labs.
Clinical ladders are positively associated with job satisfaction and career advancement for registered dietitians in clinical nutrition management
Authors: Lessar Susan , Vanderveldt Elena , Shan Liang , Meacham Susan
Published: March 2019

Background: Following a change in reporting structure, Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in a Virginia hospital system provided patients with better care, cost savings, and almost doubled clinical nutrition staff from 2008 to 2013. Objective The study was conducted to determine if the administrative alignment of RDNs in their place of employment 1) allows them to perform to their greatest scope of practice and 2) influences job perceptions.Methods: A survey was developed and distributed nationally to CNMs and their coworkers.  Statistical analyses: Using SPSS 24, univariate descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses were conducted. Contingency tables were generated and Pearson Chi-square tests and as appropriate Fishers’ exact tests were used to draw statistical inferences.Results: Respondents (n=508) represented four regions of the US with various job titles. Some reported to vice presidents of support services (34%) and others reported to vice presidents overseeing both clinical and support services (26%). Respondents, regardless of alignment, were either ‘satisfied’ (47%) or ‘very satisfied’ (36%) with their current positions. Most (74%) were in a nutrition department separate from food service. There was no difference in education (p=0.87) or pay (p=0.62) dependent on reporting structure. However, when RDNs reported to a clinical nutrition department, separate from food service, it was more likely that there was a clinical ladder for RDNs and there were more levels on the clinical ladder.Conclusion: This survey suggests alignment of a clinical nutrition department is associated with a higher likelihood that RDNs will have a clinical ladder to promote career advancement.
The Effect of Audit Committee Characteristics on the Profitability: Panel Data Evidence
Authors: Oroud Yazan
Published: March 2019

This study attempts to investigat the relationship between audit committee characteristics (size, independence, meeting and financial expertise) and the profitability of industrial companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE) for the years 2013 to 2017. The model of this study is theoretically founded on both the agency theory and the resource dependence theory. To examine the developed model, the data were gathered from the annual reports of 51 listed industrial firms. To analyse the data, this study utilized the panel data methodology on 51companies with 255 observations. Moreover, this study used company size and leverage as control variables. Based on the panel data results, the fixed-effect model was used to examine the effect of the experimental variables on profitability, measured by return on investment (ROI) and return on equity (ROE). The results show that the audit committee characteristics have a significant effect on profitability of the industrial companies listed on the ASE. This study evinces that the RD theory is more significant compared to the agency theory when describing CG practices in Jordan.
The Concentration of the Banking Industry and Its Exposure to Financial Contagion
Authors: Eboli Mario
Published: March 2019

This paper focuses on the effects that the concentration of the banking industry has on its exposure to the risk of systemic crises due to direct, balance-sheet financial contagion. Studying three stylized (and analytically tractable) classes of interbank networks – namely the complete, star and ring networks – we show that the magnitude of the smallest insolvency shock that is capable of causing the default of all banks in the system depends on the degree of concentration of the industry. Concerning complete and ring interbank networks, we obtain that the more concentrated the banking system is, the smaller the magnitude of the shock that induces the insolvency of the entire system. That is, concentration renders the banking system more fragile. Conversely, we show that the opposite applies to star interbank networks – i.e. networks composed of a bank at the centre connected to a set of peripheral banks that are not connected among themselves. In this case, the more concentrated the industry, the larger the smallest shock that causes a systemic crisis, i.e. the smaller the exposure to systemic risk.
RESEARCH OF TRIBOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF POLYLACTIDE (PLA) IN THE 3D PRINTING PROCESS IN COMPARISON TO THE INJECTION PROCESS
Authors: PAWLAK Wojciech , WIELEBA Wojciech , WRÓBLEWSKI Roman
Published: March 2019

This article presents the results of studies on the tribological properties of linear wear and kinetic friction of polylactide processed by 3D printing (FFF) and injection moulding. Research was conducted on a pin on disc apparatus, and the test specimens used were polylactide cylinders with the counter specimen of C45 steel disc. Research was planned and executed with the planned experiment method for two variables: velocity of the counter specimen and pressure. The range of specified values was in the following sections: p = 0.2;0.6 MPa and v m s = 0.2;1.0 . The conducted experiment had a target of defining the influence of a somewhat new method of 3D printing on the tribological properties of materials that might find application in prototyping plain bearings.
THE TRIBOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF THE Ti6Al4V ALLOY WITH NITROGEN ION IMPLANTATION
Authors: PIOTROWSKA Katarzyna , BARANOWICZ Paweł , WYSOKIŃSKA-MISZCZUK Joanna , MADEJ Monika , SKÓRA Monika
Published: March 2019

The article presents the analysis of the influence of ion implantation on the properties of titanium alloy used in biotribological systems. The object of the study was the titanium alloy Ti6Al4V implanted with nitrogen ions. Tribological model tests were carried out in combination with a sphere with Al2O3 – a Ti6Al4V alloy disc implanted with N+ ions. Experimental friction tests were carried out on pin-on-disc testers in conditions of technically dry conditions and in conditions of lubrication with the Ringer’s solution. The tests on the TRB tester were carried out in a swinging motion, while on the T-01 tester in a sliding movement. Friction coefficient and wear were determined for all tests. Surface morphology testing and chemical composition analyses were performed using the Jeol JSM-7100F scanning electron microscope, equipped with an EDS microanalyzer. Surface geometry measurements prior to and after tribological tests were performed on a Taylor Hobson’s Talysurf CCI contactless optical profilometer. The optical tensiometer was used to determine the contact angles with demineralized water and Ringer’s solution. The tribological tests of the titanium alloy Ti6Al4V lead to the conclusion that implantation of N+ ions results in better tribological properties of the alloy. The best tribological characteristics were obtained for a titanium alloy implanted with nitrogen ions under technically dry friction conditions. The influence of the tribological system on Ringer’s fluid influenced the reduction of coefficients of friction in the oscillating movement (Tribometer TRB) and sliding motion (Tester T-01M). In the case of a oscillating movement, higher wear of the tested friction pair was observed under friction conditions with the Ringer solution lubrication.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A NEW TEST RIG AND METHODOLOGY FOR CYCLIC TESTING OF GEAR TOOTH BENDING FATIGUE STRENGTH
Authors: TUSZYŃSKI Waldemar , GIBAŁA Michał , KALBARCZYK Marek , MATRAS Eugeniusz , MICHALCZEWSKI Remigiusz , PIEKOSZEWSKI Witold , SOTOWSKI Zbigniew , SZCZEREK Marian , WULCZYŃSKI Jan , WIECZOREK Andrzej
Published: March 2019

Tooth fracture is the most dangerous form of gear wear that excludes the gear from further use. In order to counteract the occurrence of this type of damage, it is very important to properly design the toothed gear. To calculate the gear tooth bending strength, a strength parameter called the nominal stress number σFlim is necessary. ISO 6336-5:2003(E) and available material databases provide σFlim values for the most popular engineering materials used for gears, including those for case-hardened steels. There is, however, no data for a new generation of nanostructured engineering materials, which are the subject of research conducted at the Tribology Department of ITeE – PIB. The σFlim parameter is most often determined in cyclic fatigue tests on toothed gears with specially selected tooth geometry. In order to determine the above strength parameter, a pulsator (symbol T-32) was developed and manufactured at ITeE-PIB in Radom. The article presents a new device, research methodology, and the results of verification tests for case-hardened steel 18CrNiMo7-6, confirming the correctness of the adopted design assumptions and the developed research methodology. The results of tooth bending fatigue tests are the basis for the selection of a new engineering material dedicated to gears, which later undergoes tribological testing.
Schweigespirale
Authors: Roessing Thomas
Published: March 2019

The second edition of this textbook provides a profound yet easy to read introduction to the complex theory of the spiral of silence. Having been developed by Elisabeth Noelle-Neumann since the 1960s, this theory endeavours to explain how the predominant opinions in a society change and how the media influences them. Since its development, this theory has evoked the interest of researchers all over the world and has therefore been examined and analysed in countless studies using a diverse array of methods. This book explains the spiral of silence theory, the methods used to research it, the most significant findings on it, and its social and political consequences.
Simulação da dispersão de poluentes na camada limite planetária utilizando um sistema de modelos
Authors: Carvalho Jonas C. , Degrazia Gervásio Annes , Anfossi Domenico , Castelli Silvia Trini
Published: March 2019

O modelo meteorológico RAMS e o modelo de partículas Lagrangeano SPRAY são acoplados para simular o transporte e a difusão de um poluente emitido durante o experimento TRACT, realizado no vale do Reno, na Europa Central. Os resultados das simulações geradas pelo sistema de modelos são avaliados contra dados observacionais medidos durante o experimento TRACT. Análises dos resultados e a aplicação de índices estatísticos mostram que os modelos considerados reproduzem bem o comportamento geral da pluma do poluente, a distribuição temporal e espacial da concentração e a localização do máximo de concentração.
Características espectrais e similaridade da camada limite superficial sobre terreno complexo
Authors: Silva Rodrigo da , Moraes Osvaldo Luis Leal de
Published: March 2019

Neste trabalho são investigadas as características da turbulência, na camada limite superficial, em condições de não homogeneidade espacial.O objetivo do trabalho é analisar a intensidade da turbulência e o espectro da componente vertical da velocidade em termos da teoria de similaridade de Monin-Obukhov. Os resultados são também comparados com aqueles obtidos em condições de homogeneidade espacial.Os dados de turbulência foram obtidos em duas campanhas realizadas em uma região de topografia complexa. Uma torre micrometeorologica de 12 metros, equipada com sensores de resposta rápida e lenta, foi usada em ambos experimentos.As funções adimensionais, φw = σw / u* , φθ = σθ / |T* | e φε = kzε / u3* , não apresentaram uma dependência consistente com z/L sugerindo-se que devem ser usadas escalas espaciais locais para normalizá-las.O espectro normalizado, da componente vertical da velocidade, fSw( f ) /u²*φ2/3ε , foi analisado para vários valores de z/L, em função da freqüência adimensional n = fz /ū . No lado das altas freqüências o mesmo converge para uma única curva universal que obedece a lei de n-2/3. Entretanto, no lado das baixas freqüências, não é observado claramente a separação do espectro com z/L.
Evaluation of a time dependent air pollution model with a new vertical turbulent parameterization
Authors: Mangia Cristina , Rizza Umberto , Tirabassi Tiziano , Degrazia Gervásio Annes
Published: March 2019

The paper presents the evaluation of a model, with a new vertical eddy exchange parameterization, based on a general technique for solving the K-equation, using the truncated Gram-Charlier expansion (type A) of the concentration field and a finite set equations for the corresponding moments. The model can be applied routinely using as input simple ground-level meteorological data acquired by an automatic network. A performance evaluation is shown in the case of continuous emission from an elevated source in a variable boundary layer.
Variability of boundary layer processes for the metropolitan area of São Paulo during winter
Authors: Nair K. Narayanan , Freitas Edmilson Dias de , Sanchez Odon R. C. , Dias Maria Assunção Faus da Silva , Andrade Maria de Fátima
Published: March 2019

As variações espaciais e temporais da Camada Limite planetária (CLP) da Área Metropolitana da cidade de São Paulo (RMSP) durante o período de 23 de julho a 15 de Agosto de 1999 são estudas utilizando dados de um Sodar Doppler. RMSP (λ = 23º34’ S e φ = 46º44’ W) está numa altitude de 800 m acima do nível médio do mar, localizada 60 km à noroeste do oceano Atlântico, limitada por cadeias de montanhas ao norte, tendo uma orografia complexa e configura-se numa ilha de calor urbana.Este trabalho tem o objetivo de entender o impacto da urbanização sobre os processos de CLP particularmente durante a estação de inverno. Um número de diferentes tipos de experimentos estiveram em operação durante uma campanha de inverno organizada pelo IAG-USP. O Sodar Doppler fornece dados sobre (i) função estrutura de temperatura, CT2, (ii) velocidade do vento horizontal, u, (iii) velocidade do vento vertical, w, (iv) desvios padrão do vento horizontal e vertical, σu, σv e σw, e (v) altura da inversão de temperatura, Zi.A análise dos dados fornecidos pelo Sodar mostra claramente as variações desses parâmetros em alturas indo de 50 m até 1500 m com intervalos de 50 m num intervalo de tempo de 15 minutos. Existe grande variação desses parâmetros com a altura.O aumento noturno no campo do vento horizontal com a altura é bem marcado indicando a quase ausência de transporte vertical de momento horizontal durante a noite em condições estáveis. Durante as horas da manhã a aceleração na velocidade do vento é evidente. O aumento anormal em Zi durante a noite sob condições estáveis prevalece durante o inverno com valores mais altos em agosto do que em julho.
Simple estimation of surface roughness parameters from single level sonic anemometer data
Authors: Martano Paolo
Published: March 2019

The estimation of joint values of both the roughness length z0 and the displacement height d is considered in the context of the MoninObukhov similarity law for the windspeed profile. When focused on single level data sets from one sonic anemometer (i.e. wind velocity, Reynolds stress and sensible heat flux data sets at one height), it is shown that this problem can be reduced to a simpler least squares procedure for one variable only. This procedure is carried out over a proper function of the data, representing the relative uncertainty of the roughness length, σz0/z0. This is minimized with respect to d, giving a direct estimate of d, z0, and their statistical uncertainty. The scheme is tested against a field-experiment data set.
Discussão de hipóteses para modelagem da dispersão de gases pesados na atmosfera
Authors: Leal César Antônio , Chiaramonte Edson Abel dos S.
Published: March 2019

As liberações de gases pesados a nível do solo na atmosfera podem ser instantânea, contínua e intermitente. Neste artigo nós apresentamos um modelo aproximado, que represente estes diversos tipos de liberações. As liberações contínua e intermitente são representadas no modelo a partir da soma e combinação de diversas liberações instantâneas sucessivas (o modelo de “puff”). Nós mostramos o modelo matemático aproximado de propriedades médias que descreve a liberação instantânea de gás pesado e as etapas do processo de soma e combinação de “puffs” para representação de uma liberação contínua (pluma). O modelo de dispersão de pluma gaussiana é usado na fase de dispersão de gás neutro. Na última parte do artigo, os resultados numéricos obtidos com o modelo são comparados com valores experimentais de liberações contínuas obtidos na literatura.
Videogame Production: How the Capitalist Socius and Platformization Subjectivate
Authors: Jackson Joshua
Published: March 2019

Diverse representations of bodies in videogames has become a point of contention among developers and consumers alike, which has lead scholars to question why videogame production is breaking with trends of recognizable, anthropocentric characters in favor of “diverse” bodies. This paper contends that the overarching reason for this is that the capitalist socius (Deluze and Guattari, 1986) has become more readily equipped to be able to monetize and streamline diversity away from being an act of subversion and into an easily manipulatable source of revenue. In examining how the capitalist socius overlays onto the videogame production process, a few things become apparent. Because videogame production operates within the capitalist socius, their goals are the similar: to become autopoietic (able to reach a point of homeostasis in which the entity is able to reproduce and maintain its structural integrity) and to turn any and all resources into sources of capital generation. The expectation of bodies working in these regimes is to be as non-threatening and as pliable to new modes of subjectivation and capital generation as possible, but that means that bodies must undergo certain political transformations to adhere to these needs of the capitalist socius and videogame production process. As with any hegemonic structure, there are pockets of resistance that look to buck the current trends of subjectivation and capital generation. The form of resistance this paper examines is personal-games and affective experiences, but as with most things pertaining to the capitalist socius, personal-games are dangerously close to being swept up, monetized, and crunched down.
Game Design and Affect: How Games Move Us as a Catalyst for Explorations in Game Studies
Authors: Hugelmann Christopher
Published: March 2019

How Games Move Us: Emotion By Design is an introduction to the ways in which digital games and game studies are slowly encroaching on other territory; in this case, Isbister looks at the intersection of psychology, kinesthetics, design and games and how new notions from these fields alter our understanding of games as a whole. The book is aimed at changing how people talk about and understand digital games, not only as a technical object but as a social medium. Isbister readily accomplishes her goal of highlighting the ways that people can affect and are affected by games, though at times, the book struggles with its strong reliance on examples and dated references to the field of game studies and psychology.
Deposits of bodies in circular pits in the Neolithic period (mid-fifth to the mid-fourth millennium BCE)
Authors: Lefranc Philippe , Chenal Fanny
Published: March 2019

Among the numerous human remains found in circular pits belonging to the fourth
millennium BCE cultures north of the Alps, there are many examples of bodies
laid in random (or unconventional) positions. Some of these remains in irregular
configurations, interred alongside an individual in a conventional flexed
position, can be considered as a ‘funerary accompaniment’. Other
burials, of isolated individuals or multiple individuals buried in
unconventional positions, suggest the existence of burial practices outside of
the otherwise strict framework of funerary rites. The focus of this article is
the evidence recently arising from excavation and anthropological studies from
the Upper Rhine Plain (Michelsberg and Munzingen cultures). We assume that these
bodies in unconventional positions were not dumped as trash, but that they were
a part of the final act of a complex ritual. It is hypothesised that these
bodies, interpreted here as ritual waste, were sacrificial victims, and a number
of possible explanations, including ‘peripheral accompaniment’ or
victims of acts of war, are debated.
Optimizing Artificial Neural Networks For The Evaluation Of Asphalt Pavement Structural Performance
Authors: Bosurgi Gaetano , Pellegrino Orazio , Sollazzo Giuseppe
Published: March 2019

Artificial Neural Networks represent useful tools for several engineering issues. Although they were adopted in several pavement-engineering problems for performance evaluation, their application on pavement structural performance evaluation appears to be remarkable. It is conceivable that defining a proper Artificial Neural Network for estimating structural performance in asphalt pavements from measurements performed through quick and economic surveys produces significant savings for road agencies and improves maintenance planning. However, the architecture of such an Artificial Neural Network must be optimised, to improve the final accuracy and provide a reliable technique for enriching decision-making tools. In this paper, the influence on the final quality of different features conditioning the network architecture has been examined, for maximising the resulting quality and, consequently, the final benefits of the methodology. In particular, input factor quality (structural, traffic, climatic), “homogeneity” of training data records and the actual net topology have been investigated. Finally, these results further prove the approach efficiency, for improving Pavement Management Systems and reducing deflection survey frequency, with remarkable savings for road agencies.
A comprehensive approach towards the systematics of Cervidae
Authors: Heckeberg Nicola S , Wörheide Gert
Published: March 2019

Systematic relationships of cervids have been controversial for decades. Despite new input from molecular systematics, consensus could only be partially reached. The initial, gross (sub)classification based on morphology and comparative anatomy was mostly supported by molecular data. The rich fossil record of cervids has never been extensively tested in phylogenetic frameworks concerning potential systematic relationships of fossil cervids to extant cervids. The aim of this work was to investigate the systematic relationships of extant and fossil cervids using molecular and morphological characters and make implications about their evolutionary history based on the phylogenetic reconstructions. To achieve these objectives, molecular data were compiled consisting of five nuclear markers and the complete mitochondrial genome of 50 extant and one fossil cervid species. Several analyses using different data partitions, taxon sampling, partitioning schemes, and optimality criteria were undertaken. In addition, the most extensive morphological character matrix for such a broad cervid taxon sampling was compiled including 168 cranial and dental characters of 41 extant and 29 fossil cervid species. The morphological and molecular data were analysed in a combined approach and other comprehensive phylogenetic reconstructions. The results showed that most of the Miocene cervids were more closely related to each other than to any other cervids. They were often positioned between the outgroup and all other cervids or as the sister taxon to Muntiacini. Two Miocene cervids were frequently placed within Muntiacini. Plio- and Pleistocene cervids could often be affiliated to Cervini, Odocoileini or Capreolini. The phylogenetic analyses of this work provide new insights into the evolutionary history of cervids. Several fossil cervids could be successfully related to living representatives, confirming previously assumed affiliations based on comparative morphology and introducing new hypotheses. New systematic relationships were observed, some uncertainties persisted and resolving systematics within certain taxa remained challenging.
Patronin governs minus-end-out orientation of dendritic microtubules to promote dendrite pruning in Drosophila
Authors: Wang Yan , Rui Menglong , Tang Quan , Bu Shufeng , Yu Fengwei
Published: March 2019

Class IV ddaC neurons specifically prune larval dendrites without affecting axons during Drosophila metamorphosis. ddaCs distribute the minus ends of microtubules (MTs) to dendrites but the plus ends to axons. However, a requirement of MT minus-end-binding proteins in dendrite-specific pruning remains completely unknown. Here, we identified Patronin, a minus-end-binding protein, for its crucial and dose-sensitive role in ddaC dendrite pruning. The CKK domain is important for Patronin’s function in dendrite pruning. Moreover, we show that both patronin knockdown and overexpression resulted in a drastic decrease of MT minus ends and a concomitant increase of plus-end-out MTs in ddaC dendrites, suggesting that Patronin stabilizes dendritic minus-end-out MTs. Consistently, attenuation of Klp10A MT depolymerase in patronin mutant neurons significantly restored minus-end-out MTs in dendrites and thereby rescued dendrite-pruning defects. Thus, our study demonstrates that Patronin orients minus-end-out MT arrays in dendrites to promote dendrite-specific pruning mainly through antagonizing Klp10A activity.

Editorial note: This article has been through an editorial process in which the authors decide how to respond to the issues raised during peer review. The Reviewing Editor's assessment is that minor issues remain unresolved (see decision letter).
LEVEL CROSSING RATE OF PRODUCT OF TWO NAKAGAMI-m RANDOM VARIABLES AND RAYLEIGH RANDOM VARIABLE
Authors: Maričić Srđan , Milošević Nenad
Published: March 2019

In this paper, the level crossing rate of product of two Nakagami random variables and Rayleigh random variable will be calculated. This result can be used in the performance analysis of wireless relay communication system with three sections: Nakagami-m fading is present in the first and second section and Rayleigh fading is present in the third section. Also, the obtained result can be used for calculation of the level crossing rate of the product of three Rayleigh random processes, and the level crossing rate of the product of two Rayleigh random processes and Nakagami-m random process. The influence of the parameter m on the level crossing rate is analysed and considered.
Key words: Level crossing rate, Nakagami-m random variable, Rayleigh random variable
Path Analysis and Genetic Parameters for Grain Yield in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Rajput Rahul Singh
Published: March 2019

The experiment was conducted with 2 replications and 54 genotypes of wheat consisting 10 lines, 4 testers and their 40 crosses made in line X tester mating fashion in randomized block design during growing seasons 2014-2015. Spike length recorded the highest value of broad sense heritability while Canopy temperature index reported the highest value of genetic advance as a percent of mean and also reported highest phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation. Genotypic path analysis revealed that test weight and weight of grain/spike exhibited positive and strong association with grain yield and highest positive direct effects on grain yield. The selection for yield contributing test weight and weight of grain/spike must be given preference along with grain yield for speedy improvement grain yield.
Spatial Variation and Pattern of Daily Rainfall Intensity in the Middle Belt Region of Nigeria
Authors: Mage Johnson O. , Tyubee Bernard T.
Published: March 2019

The study analyzed the spatial variability of daily rainfall intensity in the Middle Belt region (MBR) of Nigeria for 46-year period (1961-2006). Daily rainfall (≥0.3mm) data were collected from eight synoptic weather stations in the study area. Daily rainfall intensity were classified into six categories using percentiles (P) namely; extremely light (≤ P10), light (P11 - P20), moderately light (P21 – P50), moderately heavy (P51 – P80), heavy (P81 – P90) and extremely heavy (> P90). To compute the percentile threshold values of the intensity categories, the population of rain days was first extracted and then ranked. The threshold values of the percentiles were extracted for each of the six categories among the eight stations and the annual number of daily rainfall for each station were then determined. The result showed a zonal pattern of increase in annual number of days for extremely heavy and heavy events from eastern to western parts of the MBR. There are enclaves of high annual rain days for the light and moderate categories in Jos plateau. The study concludes that the spatial variation will have tremendous impact on water resources and crop production as well as hazards of erosion and flooding.
Synthesis and Structural-reactivity Studies of Bifunctional MCT/SES (Monochlorotriazine/ Sulphatoethylsulphone) Azo Reactive Disperse Dyes Applied to Wool and Polyester Fabric
Authors: Joyce Eko Ishegbe , Ademola Bello Kasali , Obinna Nkeonye Peter , Kogo A. A.
Published: March 2019

Reactive disperse dyes containing monochlorotriazine/sulphatoethylsulphone reactive moieties were synthesized by condensing aniline with cyanuric chloride and further reacting it with a series of monoazo dyes obtained by diazotising 1-aminobenzene-4-β-sulphatoethylsulphone and coupling with various substituted 2-amino-4-phenylthiazole derivatives. The dyeing performance of the dyes was evaluated on polyester and wool fabrics. The dyes obtained gave various shades ranging from reddish to bright red colours. They had good depth and good levelling properties. They dyed fabrics showed moderate to good light fastness properties and very good to excellent fastness to washing and perspiration. The dye bath exhaustion on the polyester and wool fabrics were found to be very good and their fixation values were moderate.
Sustainable Development in Education Model for Kenya Vision 2030
Authors: Michura Eliud Garry
Published: March 2019

Education for sustainable development (ESD) which started in 1972 in Rio and was introduced in Kenya in 2010 after signing an MOU between Israel and Kenya as pilot model using a few schools as demonstration centers. It is being debatable if 8-4-4 should be transformed to ESD. Key questions to be addressed; why, how when and whom are our children direction for future?  ESD model provides hope for our children and the realization of vision 2030. The 8-4-4 system of education is more skewed towards theoretical knowledge than practical one and falls short in driving Kenyan vision 2030. Education is the most powerful tool in transforming a community and drives people towards sustainable society. All education stakeholders speak in one voice, the need to transform our education system. Strikes, destruction of school facilities, increased use of drugs- alcohol uptake characterize our education. There is a compelling and logical need to transform 8-4-4 education and integrate it with Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in all education institutions. Lack of innovations and unemployment among others are attributes to 8-4-4 system of education in our society. This research carried a case study of Kiamaina primary school in Nakuru County which is a role model of ESD out of the 9 schools practicing integrated education system (8-4-4 and ESD).  Having attended a small holder training workshop at KEMI in Nairobi organized by Ofri- Israel on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in July 2015, it captured attention of my colleagues and I decided to write this paper. Developed nations have used ESD model and that is the reason for their achievements. ESD is more realistic, scholarly, practical, and holistic                  and talent orientated education program. The ESD approach stands for self-development in social, spiritual, environmental and scholarly issues. ESD recognizes that each child is unique and develops three most important faculties in human; that is the mind for knowledge development, the physical for body work to use local resources and the spiritual for moral and ethical                behavior. Investment in education is key for the future social, economic, political and      environmental sustainability. It is strongly recommended that, ESD be adopted in all learning institutions.
A Novel Stress Indicating RP-HPLC Method Development and Validation for the Simultaneous Estimation of Velpatasvir and Sofosbuvir in Bulk and Its Tablet Dosage Form
Authors: Chinababu D.
Published: March 2019

Aim: The objective of the study was simplest, accurate, precise and robust reversed phase high performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) method was developed for the estimation of Velpatasvir (VEL) and Sofosbuvir (SOF) in the bulk and its tablet dosage form.

Study Design: The Quantitative and Qualitative estimation and designed forced degradation study of Velpatasvir & Sofosbuvir by RP-HPLC.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried at Santhiram College of Pharmacy and time taken 4 months.

Method: The method was attained by used Waters( 5µm, C18 250 x 4.6 mm) column with mobile phase consists of  0.5 mM disodium hydrogen phosphate buffer pH adjusted to 6.5, with Orthophosphoric acid and Methanol in the ratio of 78:22 v/v, a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min and ultraviolet detection at 285 nm.

Results: The method was validated as per ICH guidelines with different parameters, the mean retention times of VEL and SOF were found to be 2.8 & 4.7 min respectively. The resolution between VEL and SOF was found to be 10.66. The Correlation coefficients for calibration curves within the detection range of 32.5 - 97.5 and 125 - 375 µg/mL were 0.999 for VEL and SOF respectively. The LOD and LOQ for VEL and SOF were found to be 0.0068-0.029 µg/mL and 0.104-0.342 µg/mL respectively.

Conclusion: The results were indicated that the developed method was used for the routine analysis of VEL & SOF combined form in bulk and its commercial formulation. To the best of our knowledge, there was no method of RP-HPLC for the determination of VEL alone or in combination with SOF molecule.
Substrate Mediated Synthesis of Ti–Si–N Nano‐and‐Micro Structures for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Yadav Sachin , Sharma Alka , Gajar Bikash , Kaur Mandeep , Singh Dinesh , Singh Sandeep , Maurya Kamlesh Kumar , Husale Sudhir , Ojha Vijay Narain , Sahoo Sangeeta
Published: March 2019

Being one of the strongest materials, ternary TiSiN exhibits a very interesting family of binary transition metal nitride and silicide systems. A novel technique to fabricate morphologically fascinating nano and micro structures of TiSiN is reported here. The referred TiSiN films, majorly constituted with cubic TiN phase, are enriched with crystalline nanoparticles, micro‐flowers, and faceted micro‐crystals which possess attractive functionalities toward plasmon mediated optoelectronic applications. Reactivity of titanium to silicon nitride‐based dielectric topping on the substrate at high temperature plays the key role in nitride formation for the demonstrated protocol. The optoelectronic response for these morphologically enriched composite films indicates an influential role of photo‐induced surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) on their dc transport properties. A plasmonically tuned resistive switching, controlled by the surface morphology in association with the film thickness, is observed under light illumination. Using Drude's modified frequency dependent bulk electron scattering rates and surface mediated SPPs‐electron scattering rates, a generic model is proposed for addressing unambiguously the increased device resistance in response to light. The featured synthesis process opens a new direction toward the growth of transition metal nitrides while the proposed model serves as a basic platform to understand photo‐induced electron scattering mechanisms in metal.
Sickle cell microvascular paradox—oxygen supply‐demand mismatch
Authors: Detterich Jon A. , Kato Roberta , Bush Adam , Chalacheva Patjanaporn , Ponce Derek , De Zoysa Madushka , Shah Payal , Khoo Michael C. , Meiselman Herbert J. , Coates Thomas D. , Wood John C.
Published: March 2019

We have previously demonstrated that sickle cell disease (SCD) patients maintain normal global systemic and cerebral oxygen delivery by increasing cardiac output. However, ischemic end‐organ injury remains common suggesting that tissue oxygen delivery may be impaired by microvascular dysregulation or damage. To test this hypothesis, we performed fingertip laser Doppler flowmetry measurements at the base of the nailbed and regional oxygen saturation (rSO2) on the dorsal surface of the same hand. This was done during flow mediated dilation (FMD) studies in 26 chronically transfused SCD, 75 non‐transfused SCD, and 18 control subjects. Chronically transfused SCD patients were studied prior to and following a single transfusion and there was no acute change in rSO2 or perfusion. Laser Doppler estimates of resting perfusion were 76% higher in non‐transfused and 110% higher in transfused SCD patients, compared to control subjects. In contrast, rSO2 was 12 saturation points lower in non‐transfused SCD patients, but normal in the transfused SCD patients. During cuff occlusion, rSO2 declined at the same rate in all subjects suggesting similar intrinsic oxygen consumption rates. Upon cuff release, laser doppler post occlusive hyperemia was blunted in SCD patients in proportion to their resting perfusion values. Transfusion therapy did not improve the hyperemia response. FMD was impaired in SCD subjects but partially ameliorated in transfused SCD subjects. Taken together, non‐transfused SCD subjects demonstrate impaired conduit artery FMD, impaired microcirculatory post‐occlusive hyperemia, and resting hypoxia in the hand despite compensated oxygen delivery, suggesting impaired oxygen supply‐demand matching. Transfusion improves FMD and oxygen supply‐demand matching but not microcirculation hyperemic response.
Assessment of Scrub Practitioners’ List of Intraoperative Non‐Technical Skills (SPLINTS) in an Asian Ambulatory Surgical Setting
Authors: Loh Huey Peng , De Korne Dirk Frans , Yin Shan Qing , Ang Emily , Lau Ying
Published: March 2019

Communication and other nontechnical skills can affect the number of adverse events occurring in perioperative areas. Our study assessed the properties of the Scrub Practitioners’ List of Intraoperative Non‐Technical Skills (SPLINTS) used to assess nontechnical skills of scrub nurses in a diverse Asian ophthalmic ambulatory setting. We evaluated the content validation index, cultural equivalence index, concurrent validity, interrater reliability, test‐retest reliability, internal consistency, and concurrent validity. The content validity and cultural equivalence indices were 0.93 and 0.91, respectively. We found that the tool showed acceptable interrater reliability, acceptable test‐retest reliability, and an appropriate Cronbach alpha ranging from 0.80 to 0.88. We found satisfactory concurrent validity between the SPLINTS and the communication and teamwork scale assessment (rs = 0.73, P < .001) and clinical teamwork scale (rs = 0.64, P < .001). We concluded that SPLINTS is a sound psychometric tool for assessing the nontechnical skills of culturally‐diverse scrub persons in ambulatory surgery settings.
Optimization, purification, and characterization of hydroxylamine oxidoreductase from Acinetobacter sp. Y1
Authors: Liu Yuxiang , Yuan Xin , Liu Zeying
Published: March 2019

Hydroxylamine oxidoreductase (HAO) is a key enzyme involved in ammonium removal pathway. To further study the enzyme, HAO was purified from heterotrophic nitrifier Acinetobacter sp. Y1 and its property was investigated. Results of single‐factor experiments showed that the optimal carbon source, nitrogen source, and C/N ratio were trisodium citrate, ammonium sulfate, and 14, respectively, with incubation time of 16 H. DEAE SefinoseTM FF anion‐exchange chromatography was used to purify HAO, followed by SefinoseTM CL‐6B gel filtration chromatography. SDS‐PAGE revealed that a 47 kDa enzyme was purified successfully, with a purification fold of 7.32 and a recovery rate of 19.40%. The optimized enzyme activity of purified HAO was tested at pH 8.0 and 30 °C. The results showed that the activity was increased by 43.78% and 25.64% in the presence of 1 mM Fe2+ and Fe3+, respectively. HAO activity was increased with the increase of Na+ and K+, Mn2+, Zn2+, Cu2+, Ca2+, Ba2+ inhibited the HAO activity at three concentrations. In addition, HAO activity was activated by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid at 0.4 mM, and a negative effect arose as the dose increased. The purified enzyme from Y1 is different from other reported HAOs. Further study should be conducted to investigate the enzyme.
Growth factor sustained delivery from poly‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid microcarriers and its mass transfer modeling by finite element in a dynamic and static three‐dimensional environment bioengineered with stem cells
Authors: Trucillo Emanuele , Bisceglia Bruno , Valdrè Giovanni , Giordano Emanuele , Reverchon Ernesto , Maffulli Nicola , Della Porta Giovanna
Published: March 2019

Poly‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid (PLGA) microcarriers (0.8 ± 0.2 μm) have been fabricated with a load of 20 μg/gPLGA by an emulsion‐based‐proprietary technology to sustained deliver human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (hBMP2), a growth factor largely used for osteogenic induction. hBMP2 release profile, measured in vitro, showed a moderate “burst” release of 20% of the load in first 3 days, followed by a sustained release of 3% of the load along the following 21 days. PLGA microbeads loaded with fluorescent marker (8 mg/gPLGA) and hydroxyapatite (30 mg/gPLGA) were also fabricated and successfully dispersed within three‐dimensional (3D) alginate scaffold (Ca‐alginate 2% wt/wt) in a range between 50 and 200 mg/cm3; the presence of microcarriers within the scaffold induced a variation of its stiffness between 0.03 and 0.06 MPa; whereas the scaffold surface area was monitored always in the range of 190–200 m2/g. Uniform microcarriers dispersion was obtained up to 200 mg/cm3; higher loading values in the 3D scaffold produced large aggregates. The release data and the surface area were, then, used to simulate by finite element modeling the hBMP2 mass transfer within the 3D hydrogel bioengineered with stem cells, in dynamic and static cultivations. The simulation was developed with COMSOL Multiphysics® giving a good representation of hBMP2 mass balances along microbeads (bulk eroded) and on cell surface (cell binding). hBMP2 degradation rate was also taken into account in the simulations. hBMP2 concentration of 20 ng/cm3 was set as a target because it has been described as the minimum effective value for stem cells stimulation versus the osteogenic phenotype. The sensitivity analysis suggested the best microbeads/cells ratio in the 3D microenvironment, along 21 days of cultivations in both static and dynamic cultivation (perfusion) conditions. The simulated formulation was so assembled experimentally using human mesenchymal stem cells and an improved scaffold stiffness up to 0.09 MPa (n = 3; p ≤ 0.01) was monitored after 21 days of cultivation; moreover a uniform extracellular matrix deposition within the 3D system was detected by Von Kossa staining, especially in dynamic conditions. The results indicated that the described tool can be useful for the design of 3D bioengineered microarchitecture by quantitative understanding.