bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of ENSO regimes on developing- and decaying-phase precipitation during rainy season in China
Authors: Cao Qing , Hao Zhenchun , Yuan Feifei , Su Zhenkuan , Berndtsson Ronny , Hao Jie , Nyima Tsring
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study investigated the influence of five El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) types on rainy-season precipitation in China: central Pacific warming (CPW), eastern Pacific cooling (EPC), eastern Pacific warming (EPW), conventional ENSO and ENSO Modoki. The multi-scale moving t test was applied to determine the onset and withdrawal of rainy season. Results showed that the precipitation anomaly can reach up to 30 % above average precipitation during decaying CPW and EPW phases. Developing EPW could cause decreasing precipitation over large areas in China with 10–30 % lower than average precipitation in most areas. Conventional El Niño in the developing phase had the largest influence on ENSO-related precipitation among developing ENSO and ENSO Modoki regimes. Decaying ENSO also showed a larger effect on precipitation anomalies, compared to decaying ENSO Modoki. The difference between rainy-season precipitation under various ENSO regimes may be attributed to the combined influence of anti-cyclone in the western North Pacific and the Indian monsoon. Stronger monsoon and anti-cyclone are associated with enhanced rainy-season precipitation. The results suggest a certain predictability of rainy-season precipitation related to ENSO regimes.
Impacts of sewage irrigation on soil properties of farmland in China: A review
Authors: Li Qiangkun , Tang Jiao , Wang Tian , Wu Dafu , Busso Carlos Alberto , Jiao Ruifeng , Ren Xiujuan
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Fresh water is a valuable nonrenewable resource and plays an important role of maintaining economic and social development. Sewage irrigation was taken a supplementary way to relieve water resource shortage in some areas (such as North China). With extensive implementation of sewage irrigation, serious pollution and destruction for farmland have gradually become a heated issue, impeding basic industries sustainable development in the near future. Here in this paper, some soil physical properties (soil bulk density, soil resistance to penetration and field capacity) and chemical properties (pH, soil organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, heavy metal and organic pollutants contents) and biological characteristics (soil microorganisms and enzyme activities) of farmland affected by sewage irrigation were systematically reviewed on the base of the current utilization status of China and some valuable suggestions were put forward to the future development prospects. This review will be beneficial for promoting healthy development of sewage irrigation and providing theoretical support for reclamation and high efficiency of effluents in China.
Interpretar la corrupción: el marqués de Villarrocha, Capitán General de Panamá (1698-1717)
Authors: Andújar Castillo Francisco
Published: November 2017

Los estudios sobre historia de la corrupción en la monarquía hispánica se han venido realizando a partir de documentación judicial y de la generada por los denominados mecanismos de control -visitas, juicios de residencia y pesquisas- que se pusieron en marcha para verificar la acción de los agentes de gobierno. En esta aportación mostramos que la documentación emanada de esos instrumentos de control es fundamental, pero insuficiente para investigaciones que suelen estar marcadas por la complejidad. Tomamos como referencia el caso de José Antonio Rocha Carranza, marqués de Villarrocha, quien a finales del siglo XVII, tras comprar el puesto de Capitán General de Panamá y Presidente de la Audiencia, fue procesado en tres ocasiones por el Consejo de Indias por acusaciones de corrupción, condenado en primera instancia las tres veces, pero finalmente absuelto de todos los cargos que se le imputaban. Frente a una interpretación del caso que podría hacerse en clave de luchas de facciones y de poder entre Villarrocha y los oidores o miembros del cabildo que le habrían denunciado, el imprescindible cruce de fuentes documentales, en concreto con una fuente ajena a los procesos judiciales, revela que la corrupción presidió su acción de gobierno durante las tres etapas en que ocupó el citado cargo. Igualmente planteamos los problemas de método que se suelen suscitar en investigaciones relacionadas con las citadas fuentes documentales.
“Possuidores despóticos”: Historiografia, denúncia e fontes sobre a corrupção na América portuguesa
Authors: Fernanda Bicalho Maria
Published: November 2017

Este artigo, dividido em quatro tópicos, defende o argumento de que havia na cultura política do Antigo Regime uma distinção entre o que era visto e vivenciado como lícito e ilícito e, portanto, que o conceito de corrupção -embora com contornos e nuances próprias, e concepções específicas de acordo com diferentes conjunturas históricas- aplica-se igualmente às sociedades da época moderna. Nas duas primeiras partes do texto nos propomos a uma breve discussão sobre o tema da corrupção no espaço social luso-brasileiro, tanto a partir da historiografia recente, quanto por meio de obras de autores que viveram e escreveram nos séculos XVII e XVIII. Em seguida analisaremos uma representação dos moradores do Rio de Janeiro à rainha D. Maria I, de 1779, acusando os oficiais da Câmara de intrusão, despotismo e usurpação de direitos em relação à posse de terrenos urbanos, que lhes haviam sido garantidos desde a fundação da cidade. Por fim, abordaremos, ao destacar as fontes sobre as quais nos debruçamos, as vias e as estratégias utilizadas, individual e coletivamente, para denunciar a corrupção na monarquia pluricontinental portuguesa, sempre atentas à centralidade do rei e à eficácia da justiça régia.
Circuitos mercantiles, circulación de personas y criminalidad en la configuración de espacios políticos. Valle de Uco (Mendoza, Río de la Plata), primera mitad del siglo XIX
Authors: Molina Eugenia
Published: November 2017

En este trabajo buscamos observar en qué medida la configuración de un espacio político, en este caso Valle de Uco (jurisdicción de Mendoza), estuvo atravesada al menos por dos tramas de variables. Por un lado, la visibilización de una serie de circuitos mercantiles en el sur de Mendoza que articulaban las zonas de frontera, aún más allá de las no dominadas por los hispanocriollos, y con los pasos cordilleranos de esa zona. Por otro lado, el “problema” de la criminalidad en ciertas coyunturas político-militares que generaban una movilidad notable de población y un flujo más intenso de productos, pero que también servía como argumento para justificar políticas de control creciente sobre los espacios rurales. En este sentido, la exposición estará organizada en dos apartados. En el primero intentaremos mostrar cómo con la Revolución se consolidaron oficialmente circuitos mercantiles que tenían larga tradición colonial y adquirieron luego de 1820 mayor visibilidad para los gobiernos. En el segundo, analizaremos de qué modo, si bien los ataques contra la propiedad pudieron haber aumentado en ciertas coyunturas, su creciente criminalización y punición quizá se profundizó al ritmo de la consolidación de una burocracia estatal provincial que necesitaba garantizar la seguridad de la propiedad privada y la pública en los espacios de tráfico mercantil y producción ganadera.
El saqueo de los ornamentos y las alhajas sagradas en las Guerras de Independencia de Colombia: entre la represión política y la devoción religiosa
Authors: Pita Pico Roger
Published: November 2017

En el marco de la celebración del Bicentenario de la Independencia de las naciones hispanoamericanas, este artículo tiene por objeto analizar el saqueo, la ocultación, la transformación y la destrucción de las alhajas y ornamentos de iglesias y conventos durante el conflicto político y militar de las guerras de emancipación de la Nueva Granada. Así entonces, durante estos agitados años estas piezas sagradas estuvieron inmersas en un ambiente signado por la polarización política, la devoción religiosa y el afán de republicanos y españoles por conseguir recursos para la guerra. Bastante complejas e inciertas resultaron las reclamaciones de las iglesias por recuperar sus piezas sagradas en medio de una atmósfera marcada por la secularización y la tensión entre el poder político y el poder eclesiástico.
"Duck and Cover!" El impacto de la Guerra Fría en los niños estadounidenses. Una aproximación a la historiografía norteamericana sobre la infancia
Authors: Corrales Morales David
Published: November 2017

Desde los años sesenta, la historia de la infancia -y de los niños- ha sufrido una progresiva evolución, que ha permitido establecer una interrelación entre su objeto de estudio y ámbitos como la sociedad, la cultura o las relaciones internacionales. Este artículo aborda este amplio recorrido a través de aquellas aportaciones más relevantes centradas en las experiencias de los niños estadounidenses. Asimismo, a modo de caso práctico, el autor engloba algunas de estas líneas de estudio que han ido apareciendo en la historiografía norteamericana -familia, educación, productos de entretenimiento, etc.- bajo un mismo eje temático, las repercusiones de la Guerra Fría en los más pequeños. De este modo, se aspira a proporcionar una visión -general y particular- sobre las posibilidades que ofrece esta rica disciplina historiográfica para un mayor conocimiento sobre ciertos acontecimientos y procesos históricos en los Estados Unidos.
Attracting the interprofessional collaboration between physical therapy, speech therapy and ABSN nursing students working with patients diagnosed with stroke during simulation
Authors: Wallace Debra R. , Gill Jaya Mini
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this mixed methods interprofessional simulation was to assess health science university students in physical therapy, speech therapy, and nursing to the positive role of interprofessional collaboration by means of a live actor stroke simulation. The interprofessional simulation was divided into two segments which was comprised of: 1) the application of various teaching methods and orientation to the simulation lab, and 2) taking part in the organized simulated interprofessional care plan and subsequently participating in the debriefing and self-reflective exercises learning experiences. Logistic regression was used to measure quantitative outcomes including the Simulation Evaluation Survey questionnaire. The results were statistically significant. Qualitative data was obtained during simulation debriefing sessions, and was coded and analyzed. Incorporating the importance of inter-professional collaboration in professional program students helps promote team work, leadership, problem solving, critical thinking, and communication. The authors recommend incorporating interprofessional simulation in the curriculum for health care educational programs.
Evaluation of Gluten-Free Amaranth and Navy Bean Flour Blends on Quality of Sugar Cookies
Authors: Liu Sean X. , Chen Diejun , Xu Jingyuan
Published: November 2017

Gluten-free sugar cookies were made from amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus) and navy bean flours of different ratios. The physical properties of flour blends, dough, and cookies were evaluated. This study found that navy bean and its blends with amaranth had greater water holding capacity (WHC) than that of wheat flour. The increased WHC was observed as the amount of navy bean flours increased in blends. The amaranth flour had the highest water soluble index (WSI) and pasting viscosities. The WSI, pasting viscosities and rheological elastic properties of composites were improved by amaranth flour. Differences were also found in geometrical and textural properties of the doughs and cookies. The cookies made from flour blends have lower width and spread factors; however, they had higher thickness and volume resulting in higher yield compared to wheat flour. Overall, the cookies made by amaranth, navy bean, and their blends were rated “acceptable” in color, flavor, texture, and overall acceptability in the sensory study. The flavorings of vanilla, cinnamon, and almond extracts improved sensory scores of cookies made from blends, making them indistinguishable from cookies using wheat flour. This study suggested that the amaranth-navy bean blends could be good gluten-free candidates for health-promoting food products.
Innovation in high-level capture and diffusion of tacit architectural knowledge
Authors: Burry Mark
Published: November 2017

Este trabajo se centra en un "Programa de Diseño de Doctorado Embebido" (EDDP), que comprende una cohorte de candidatos de doctorado de diseño que están "insertados" fuera de la universidad para una parte sustancial de su candidatura. Específicamente, el documento detalla el marco y el resultado para los doctorados australianos en arquitectura, situados en contextos fuera de su experiencia y experiencia inmediata, y fuera del ámbito de la investigación académica tradicional. Estos contextos pueden ser extraídos potencialmente de la práctica profesional, la industria y el comercio; en áreas de interés tan diversas como la planificación, la propiedad, la construcción, la ingeniería civil y de infraestructuras, la ecología, los fabricantes, las instituciones financieras y las empresas de comunicación. También podrían ser colocados dentro de los equipos de proyectos del gobierno local, ONGs y PFN involucrando la salud comunitaria, la ciencia política y la definición de políticas, las ciencias sociales y la antropología, e incluso los sectores culturales como los museos.

Aquest treball se centra en un "Programa de Disseny de Doctorat encastat" (EDDP), que comprèn una cohort de candidats de doctorat de disseny que estan "inserits" fora de la universitat per a una part substancial de la seva candidatura. Específicament, el document detalla el marc i el resultat per als doctorats australians en arquitectura, situats en contextos fora de la seva experiència i experiència immediata, i fora de l'àmbit de la recerca acadèmica tradicional. Aquests contextos poden ser extrets potencialment de la pràctica professional, la indústria i el comerç; en àrees d'interès tan diverses com la planificació, la propietat, la construcció, l'enginyeria civil i d'infraestructures, l'ecologia, els fabricants, les institucions financeres i les empreses de comunicació. També podrien ser col·locats dins dels equips de projectes del govern local, ONG i PFN involucrant la salut comunitària, la ciència política i la definició de polítiques, les ciències socials i l'antropologia, i fins i tot els sectors culturals com els museus.

This paper focusses on an ‘Embedded Doctoral Design Program’ (EDDP), comprising a cohort of design PhD candidates who are ‘embedded’ outside the university for a substantial part of their candidature. Specifically, the paper details the framework and outcome for Australian doctoral candidates in architecture placed in contexts outside their experience and immediate expertise, and outside the traditional academic research setting. These contexts can be drawn potentially from professional practice, industry and commerce; in associated areas of interest as diverse as planning, property, construction, civil and infrastructure engineering, ecology, manufacturers, financial institutions and communication companies. They could also be placed within local government, NGO and NFP project teams involving community health, political science and policy definition, social science and anthropology, and even cultural sectors such as museums.
Innovació docent en matemàtiques per a l’arquitectura
Authors: Guijarro Carranza Maria Piedad , Cruells Pagès Pere
Published: November 2017

En aquest article es mostren diversos materials per a la docència de les matemàtiques dels estudis d’arquitectura. Es presenten recursos web, lliçons i qüestionaris en format Moodle tots ells incloent-hi imatges, videos, gràfics, calculadora i editor Wiris, etc. amb un enfocament geomètric i visual que fa més pràctics i atractius aquests continguts a l’estudiantat d’arquitectura. Bàsicament s’han fet servir les eines que proporciona la plataforma Atenea, intranet docent de la UPC basada en Moodle.

In this paper, various materials focused on the teaching of mathematics for the studies of architecture are shwon. We present web resources, lessons and quizzes in Moodle format including images, videos, graphics, Wiris editor and calculator, etc. with a geometrical and visual approach which makes the contents more attractive and practical to students of architecture. Basically the tools provided by the platform Atenea, which is the UPC on-line teaching campus based on Moodle, have been used.
Proyectos expuestos: pabellón de exposición y debate del nuevo plan urbano de la capital federal en St. Pölten. Austria. 1988. Adolf Krischanitz.
Authors: Pelegrín-Rodríguez Marta
Published: November 2017

El artículo estudia el pabellón “An der Traisen” construido en 1988 por Adolf Krischanitz para albergar la exposición y jornadas de debate sobre el futuro crecimiento de St. Pölten como capital de Niederösterreich (Baja Austria). Si bien tanto el pequeño edificio temporal como la muestra estaban diseñados conjuntamente para presentar y representar la  inminente transformación urbana,  posible encontrar en el diálogo entre la arquitectura del proyecto y la arquitectura presentada en la muestra algunas contradicciones que ilustran un punto de inflexión en la arquitectura coetánea.Mientras el proyecto de ciudad sobre el que reflexionan V. Magnago-Lampugniani y  W.Wang, y cuya exposición idean D. Steiner, G.Schöllhammer, C.Knechtl, y G.Eichenber, componía una ciudad collage de obras de consolidada referencia en la historia de la arquitectura, el pabellón temporal se presentaba como un espacio experimental, construido con materiales ligeros y ensamblados, que traslucían una luminosidad vibrante e intensa.  Compuesto por dos piezas, un esbelto prisma de tres niveles albergaba la exposición, y un cilindro, a modo de Tholos cubierto por una cúpula tensegrity, representaba el ágora democrática donde avivar, con la celebración de actividades, debates y mesas de trabajo, la construcción de la urbs y la civitas de la futura capital. 

The article examines the “An der Traisen” pavilion built in 1988 by Adolf Krischanitz, destined to host the exhibition and discussion sessions on the future growth of St. Pölten

as the capital of Niederösterreich (Lower Austria). While both the small, temporary building and the exhibition were designed jointly to present and represent the imminent urban transformation, it is possible to find some contradictions in the dialogue between the architecture of the project and the architecture exhibited, which illustrates

a turning point in coetaneous architecture.

While the project of the city addressed by V. Magnano-Lampugniani and W. Wang, and whose exhibition was devised by D. Steiner, G. Schöllhammer, C. Knechtl and G. Eichenber, composed a collage city of well-established reference works in the history of architecture,

the temporary pavilion was presented as an experimental space, assembled with light materials, that revealed an intense and vibrant luminosity. It consisted of two volumes, a slender three-storey prism that hosted the exhibition, and a cylinder, like a Tholos

covered by a tensegrity dome, that represented the democratic agora where a variety of activities, debates and work groups took place and stimulated the construction of the urbs and civitas of the future capital.
Saber latín: cinco máximas pedagógicas
Authors: Fernández-Galiano Luis
Published: November 2017

No existe mejor síntesis de una experiencia pedagógica que la que brinda el latín lapidario de las máximas clásicas. Utilizo un proverbio romano y un aforismo medieval, además de sentencias de Petronio, Quintiliano y Séneca para introducir cinco comentarios taquigráficos a la enseñanza de los proyectos; el cordobés me sirve también para la presentación y la despedida. Los textos provienen de Aurea dicta, la excelente selección de Eduard Valentí.

There is no better synthesis for an educational

experience than that provided by the irrefutable Latin of classical maxims. I resort to a roman proverb and a medieval aphorism, in addition to quotes by Petronius,

Quintilian and Seneca in order to present five shorthand commentaries on the teaching of architectural design; I refer to the Cordoban also in the introduction and the closure. The writings come from Aurea dicta, an excellent

selection by Eduard Valentí.
Diseño y simulación de una articulación de rodilla para prótesis externa usando herramientas CAD-CAE
Authors: Valencia F. , Olmedo F.
Published: November 2017

Alrededor del mundo existen un gran número de personas que tienen algún tipo de discapacidad física. La pérdida de un miembro inferior afecta considerablemente a la movilidad bípeda, dificultando sus actividades cotidianas y frustración en las personas generando un sin número de consecuencias tanto físicas como emocionales. El uso de una prótesis externa de tipo transfemoral aumenta la confianza, la movilidad y mejora de la autoestima. Uno de los inconvenientes en la adquisición de una prótesis son los costos elevados siendo este un gran limitante. Por esta razón es importante desarrollar prótesis inteligentes, siendo los sensores los encargados de tomar las señales biológicas del músculo para pasar al procesamiento de la señal y emitir una determinada señal para el manejo de los actuadores y de esta forma emular la caminata de una persona.Al diseñar una articulación de rodilla para prótesis transfemoral y general una simulación de todas las fuerzas que intervienen en el mecanismo permite desarrollar un mecanismo funcional y tener una buena relación peso resistencia. Para el desarrollo del diseño es fundamental comprender la biomecánica de la marcha humana, determinar los principales parámetros que influyen en el diseño como son las fuerzas, los momentos, los desplazamientos los ángulos que intervienen en el mecanismo, se debe mencionar que los datos obtenidos de la biomecánica de la marcha y los principales parámetros usados para el diseño han sido tomados de estudios o investigaciones anteriores por razones de que es necesario un laboratorio de marcha para la obtención de estos datos.  Una vez comprendido todos estos aspectos se realiza el croquis o un CAD de la articulación de rodilla de acuerdo a estudios antropométricos para finalmente colocar todas las cargas que intervienen en dicho mecanismo y obtener el análisis estático mediante el método de elementos finitos.
Mochila y carro escolar: análisis cinemático usando distintas cargas.
Authors: Orantes-González E. , Heredia-Jiménez J.
Published: November 2017

Introducción. El uso de los carros escolares es cada vez mayor en niños de educación primaria. Para clarificar las recomendaciones entre carro y/o mochila, en este estudio se ha realizado un análisis cinemático transportando distintas cargas con ambas opciones de transporte.Métodos. 14 sujetos fueron evaluados (9.6+1.8 años). Un sistema de captura de movimiento 3D fue utilizado para analizar la locomoción caminando sin carga, llevando una mochila y tirando del carro, ambas con el 10%, 15% y 20% peso corporal (BW) del sujeto. Los parámetros cinemáticos del tronco, pelvis, cadera y rodilla fueron analizados.Resultados. El tronco aumentó la flexión conforme aumentaba el peso del carro y la mochila. La pelvis y cadera aumentaron su flexión caminando con la mochila cargada comparado con caminar sin carga. La cadera aumentó su aducción usando la mochila con el 10% y el 20% BW con respecto al uso del carro, y disminuyó los movimientos de rotación (20% BW). La rodilla no mostró diferencias en ninguno de los planos, tampoco la pelvis ni el tronco en los planos frontal y lateral.Conclusiones. El uso del carro escolar requiere menos adaptaciones que la mochila con las mismas cargas y un comportamiento postural más próximo a caminar sin carga.
Mechanical modulation of a human plasma based skin scaffold via reactive multi-arm polyethylene glycols
Authors: Corrales R. , Sikorski M. , García M. , Velasco D. , Jorcano J.L.
Published: November 2017

Equivalentes dermo-epidérmicos basados en plasma humano autólogo han sido diseñados a lo largo de la última década con el objetivo de tratar quemaduras y heridas quirúrgicas; aun así, las malas propiedades mecánicas como son la fragilidad o la contracción durante el cultivo y la implantación persisten y requieren soluciones.  Este artículo investiga la modulación mecánica de equivalentes dermo-epidérmicos basados en plasma humano mediante la introducción de una red tridimensional (3D) polimérica interpenetrante y biodegradable compuesta por polietilenglicol tetra-glutarato de succinimidil (4SG-PEG) y polietilenglicol tetra-amino (4A-PEG), con pesos moleculares de 10kDa. Las propiedades físicas de estos hidrogeles de fibrina y PEG fueron caracterizadas mediante la cuantificación de grupos aminos libres, el tiempo de gelificación, el hinchamiento de forma temporal y la liberación de proteínas. Además, la viabilidad de fibroblastos y queratinocitos primarios humanos fueron estudiadas mediante los ensayos Alamar Blue y MTS respectivamente. Los resultados obtenidos sugieren que mediante la introducción de una red interpenetrante basada en PEG y fibrina, las propiedades mecánicas de los geles de fibrina fueron moduladas positivamente, sin disminuir significativamente la viabilidad celular. Estos resultados prometen futuras investigaciones para mejorar las propiedades mecánicas de estos equivalentes dermo-epidérmicos.
Preanalytic Factors Associated With Hemolysis in Emergency Department Blood Samples
Authors: Phelan Michael P. , Reineks Edmunds Z. , Schold Jesse D. , Hustey Frederic M. , Chamberlin Janelle , Procop Gary W.
Published: November 2017

Context.—

Hemolysis of emergency department blood samples is a common occurrence and has a negative impact on health care delivery.

Objectives.—

To determine the effect of preanalytic factors (straight stick, intravenous [IV] line, needle gauge, location of blood draw, syringe versus vacuum tube use, tourniquet time) on hemolysis in emergency department blood samples.

Design.—

A single 65 000-visit emergency department's electronic health record was queried for emergency department potassium results and blood draw technique for all samples obtained in calendar year 2014, resulting in 54 531 potassium results. Hemolyzed potassium was measured by hemolysis index. Comparisons of hemolysis by sampling technique were conducted by χ2 tests.

Results.—

Overall hemolysis was 10.0% (5439 of 54 531). Hemolysis among samples obtained from straight stick was significantly less than among those obtained with IV line (5.4% [33 of 615] versus 10.2% [4821 of 47 266], P < .001). For IV-placed blood draws, antecubital location had a statistically significant lower overall hemolysis compared with other locations: 7.4% (2117 of 28 786) versus 14.6% (2622 of 17 960) (P < .001). For blood drawn with a syringe compared with vacuum, hemolysis was 13.0% (92 of 705) and 11.0% (1820 of 16 590), respectively (P = .09, not significant). For large-gauge IV blood draws versus smaller-gauge IV lines, a lower hemolysis was also observed (9.3% [3882 of 41 571] versus 16.7% [939 of 5633]) (P < .001). For IV-drawn blood with tourniquet time less than 60 seconds, hemolysis was 10.3% (1362 of 13 162) versus 13.9% for more than 60 seconds (532 of 3832), P < .001.

Conclusions.—

This study confirmed previous findings that straight stick and antecubital location are significantly associated with reduced hemolysis and indicated that shorter tourniquet time and larger gauge for IV draws were significantly associated with lower hemolysis.
Stress reduction in a high stress population: A service-learning project
Authors: McClure Brenchley Kimberly J. , Donahue Lynn M.
Published: November 2017

Psychology students delivered stress and coping workshops to homeless adolescent mothers as part of a college service-learning project. In this vulnerable and underserved population, stress reduction is critical. Service-learning was used as an avenue to enhance student learning and growth while helping meet this need in our community. The psychology students developed deeper learning, professional skills, and social awareness. The adolescent mothers developed stress reduction skills that they were able to successfully implement. Challenges and recommendations for the implementation of similar service-learning projects are discussed.
The Effects of Cosmos caudatus (Ulam Raja) on the Levels of Expression of Nrf2 Target Genes in Mice Liver
Authors: Abdullah Azman , Phern Tan Chung , Rahim Nur Fatihah Hanis Mohamad , Zaharuddin Nur Izzati , Salihin Nurdayana Maulat , Yusof Ahmad Hilmi , Jaarin Kamsiah , Kamisah Yusof , Saad Qodriyah Haji Mohd , Fahami Nur Azlina Mohd , Radman Harizz Miszard
Published: November 2017

Background: Cosmos caudatus (Ulam Raja) is an appetizer (ulam) eaten with rice in Malaysia. Previous studies showed that Cosmos caudatus possess high antioxidant content. Nrf2 is a transcription factor which regulates the expression of phase II enzymes and antioxidant proteins. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of Cosmos caudatus aqueous extract (UR) on the expression of Nrf2 target genes in mice liver.Methods: ICR white mice were treated for 21 days with different doses of UR (100, 500, 1000 mg/kg) through oral gavage. Control mice were only given distilled water. After 21 days, the mice were sacrificed and their livers harvested. Total RNA was extracted, reverse transcribed and subjected to qPCR to detect Nrf2 target genes expression.Results: Administration of 100 mg/kg UR significantly increased NQO1 expression in mice liver. Administration of 500 mg/kg UR significantly increased HO-1 liver expression. Administration of 100 and 500 mg/kg UR significantly increased GSTA1 liver expression. Administration of 500 and 1000 mg/kg UR significantly increased GSTM3 liver expression, whereas GSTP and GSTM1 liver expression was significantly decreased at similar doses. Administration of all doses of UR significantly decreased the expression of GSTA3, SOD3 and GCLC in mice liver.Conclusion: UR administration mostly resulted in downregulation of Nrf2 target genes. However, conclusive evidence can only be made through the use of Nrf2 knockout mice or by performing Nrf2 nuclear translocation studies.
Stability of Carotenoid Composition in Orange Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas) Tuber Flesh Over Three Growing Seasons and Months Storage Time
Authors: Rashidi Othman  , Suhair Kamoona  , Irwandi Jaswir  , Parveen Jamal  , Farah Ayuni Mohd Hatta
Published: November 2017

Considerable research interest has recently focused on the development of both transgenic and traditional breeding methods to increase total and individual carotenoid composition in sweet potatoes. Unfortunately little information is available on the influence of the environment on carotenoid profile stability in sweet potatoes especially growing seasons and storage. Therefore the aim of this study is to explore the composition and concentration of carotenoids in orange sweet potato tubers to enable their future enhancement through genetic manipulation over different growing seasons and storage time. Our findings revealed that orange sweet potato tubers contained α-carotene and β-carotene in the first and second season, whereas in the third season only lutein and zeaxanthin were detected. Analysis of carotenoid profiles of the orange sweet potato tubers grown in three different seasons showed that the growing season had a major effect on the carotenoid compounds stability. Besides growing seasons, the level of total and individual carotenoids in orange sweet potato tuber flesh are strongly influenced and affected by storage conditions. The storage of tubers over 6 months period of time appears to have distinct effects on carotenoid content and composition. Results showed that storage from 1 to 6 months resulted in the accumulation of zeaxanthin and β-carotene with a concomitant decreased of lutein, α-carotene and total carotenoid content.
Influence of the Preparation "Nicavet-1000" on a Morphofunctional Condition of some Organs of Rats at Experimental Aluminium Intoxication
Authors: David A. Areshidze  , Lyudmila D. Timchenko  , Igor V. Rzhepakovsky  , Maria A. Kozlova  , Iaroslavna A. Kusnetsova  , Ivan A. Syomin
Published: November 2017

During the conducted research, it is established that aluminium chloride intoxication leads to the considerable changes of composition of red blood, development of a hypercalcemia and change of a bone structure of animals. A number of significant morphofunctional changes in the hippocampus of the examined animals are also noted. The use of the tissue preparation "Nicavet-1000" leads to the normalization of both hematocrit and other parameters of red blood, as well as to the intensification of erythropoiesis. Use of the preparation "Nicavet-1000", judging from the results of research, prevents pathological changes in a bone tissue, caused by aluminium chloride. "Nicavet-1000" leads to the expressed normalization of both the morphological, and micromorphometric parameters characterizing a hippocampus of rats.
Carotenoid Content and Composition in 20 Medicinal Plant Species of Traditional Malay Midwifery Postnatal Bath
Authors: Rashidi Othman  , Siti Farah Aliya Abdul Halim  , Farah Ayuni Mohd Hatta  , Mohd Aizat Jamaludin
Published: November 2017

Today in Malay community, midwifery traditional knowledge of herbal medicine has disappeared and extinct. The facts are Malay midwives are becoming rare and the more crucial is medicinal plants are over-harvested. The aim of this research is to identify and investigate the active pharmaceutical ingredients content in 20 selected species used in the Malay traditional bath. There is a solid need to analyse the potential of these natural bioactive compounds, particularly carotenoids to be fully utilised and commercialised especially in halal market and health advantages. Through High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, all 20 species were found to have at least four individual carotenoid pigments with a relatively high concentration of lutein and β-carotene and lower concentrations of zeaxanthin. Strobilanthes crispus (Pecah Kaca) leaf was detected to have the highest total carotenoid content (1546.80±283.45 μg/g DW)while Psidium guajava (Jambu Batu) shoot has the lowest total carotenoid content (112.9±82.2 μg/g DW). The significant outcome of the research was a new findings of new natural bioactive compound sources as health promoting agents which covers not only the Shariah requirement, but also safety aspects. Moreover, it will preserve the traditional knowledge of Malay traditional bath practices.
Rail-induced Traffic in China
Authors: He Nan , Li Jitao , Wang Yu , Ma Caiwen
Published: November 2017

The rapid development of China’s railway has exerted an enormous influence on the intercity passenger transport structure in recent years. However, it has not satisfied the passengers’ travel demand due to induced traffic. This paper is committed to solving such issue, with the aim of satisfying the current travel demand, and of anticipating the demand of the predicted traffic growth over the next 20 to 30 years. The paper has considered the increase in rail passenger kilometres caused by the growth of rail kilometres as rail-induced traffic. Based on the concept and former research of induced traffic, the panel data of 26 provinces and 3 municipalities of China between the year 2000 and 2014 were collected, and the elasticity models (including elasticity-based model, distributed lag model, high-speed rail (HSR) elasticity model and rail efficiency model) have been constructed. The results show the importance of model formation incorporation of rail-induced traffic. It is better to get the correct value in divided zones with different train frequencies or incorporation rail efficiency in cities or provinces. The lag time and rail types also need to be considered. In summary, the results analysis not only confirms the existence of rail-induced traffic, but also provides substantial recommendations to train operation planning.
Capacity Analysis Procedure for Four-leg Non-standard Unsignalised Intersections
Authors: Bogdanović Vuk , Ruškić Nenad , Basarić Valentina , Tanackov Ilija
Published: November 2017

Procedures for capacity analysis of two-way stop controlled (TWSC) appeared in scientific literature in the 1970s. In addition to standard TWSC intersections, there are also non-standard unsignalised intersections. The main characteristic of these intersections is that two major approaches are not placed opposite, but next to each other. Because of the non-standard layout of the major and minor approaches, there are unique major and minor movements at these intersections. For these movements, standard procedures for capacity analysis of standard TWSC intersections cannot be used. This paper describes a procedure for capacity analysis of non-standard unsignalised intersections with a new model for rank distribution for all major and minor movements, as well as the conflict flow calculation, and the procedure for the calculation of potential and movement capacity, according to the non-standard layout of the major and minor approaches.
Genetic and neuronal regulation of sleep by neuropeptide VF
Authors: Lee Daniel A , Andreev Andrey , Truong Thai V , Chen Audrey , Hill Andrew J , Oikonomou Grigorios , Pham Uyen , Hong Young K , Tran Steven , Glass Laura , Sapin Viveca , Engle Jae , Fraser Scott E , Prober David A
Published: November 2017

Sleep is an essential and phylogenetically conserved behavioral state, but it remains unclear to what extent genes identified in invertebrates also regulate vertebrate sleep. RFamide-related neuropeptides have been shown to promote invertebrate sleep, and here we report that the vertebrate hypothalamic RFamide neuropeptide VF (NPVF) regulates sleep in the zebrafish, a diurnal vertebrate. We found that NPVF signaling and npvf-expressing neurons are both necessary and sufficient to promote sleep, that mature peptides derived from the NPVF preproprotein promote sleep in a synergistic manner, and that stimulation of npvf-expressing neurons induces neuronal activity levels consistent with normal sleep. These results identify NPVF signaling and npvf-expressing neurons as a novel vertebrate sleep-promoting system and suggest that RFamide neuropeptides participate in an ancient and central aspect of sleep control.
The rate of transient beta frequency events predicts behavior across tasks and species
Authors: Shin Hyeyoung , Law Robert , Tsutsui Shawn , Moore Christopher I , Jones Stephanie R
Published: November 2017

Beta oscillations (15-29Hz) are among the most prominent signatures of brain activity. Beta power is predictive of healthy and abnormal behaviors, including perception, attention and motor action. In non-averaged signals, beta can emerge as transient high-power 'events'. As such, functionally relevant differences in averaged power across time and trials can reflect changes in event number, power, duration, and/or frequency span. We show that functionally relevant differences in averaged beta power in primary somatosensory neocortex reflect a difference in the number of high-power beta events per trial, i.e. event rate. Further, beta events occurring close to the stimulus were more likely to impair perception. These results are consistent across detection and attention tasks in human magnetoencephalography, and in local field potentials from mice performing a detection task. These results imply that an increased propensity of beta events predicts the failure to effectively transmit information through specific neocortical representations.
Transcriptome dynamics along axolotl regenerative development are consistent with an extensive reduction in gene expression heterogeneity in dedifferentiated cells
Authors: Díaz-Castillo Carlos
Published: November 2017

Although in recent years the study of gene expression variation in the absence of genetic or environmental cues or gene expression heterogeneity has intensified considerably, many basic and applied biological fields still remain unaware of how useful the study of gene expression heterogeneity patterns might be for the characterization of biological systems and/or processes. Largely based on the modulator effect chromatin compaction has for gene expression heterogeneity and the extensive changes in chromatin compaction known to occur for specialized cells that are naturally or artificially induced to revert to less specialized states or dedifferentiate, I recently hypothesized that processes that concur with cell dedifferentiation would show an extensive reduction in gene expression heterogeneity. The confirmation of the existence of such trend could be of wide interest because of the biomedical and biotechnological relevance of cell dedifferentiation-based processes, i.e., regenerative development, cancer, human induced pluripotent stem cells, or plant somatic embryogenesis. Here, I report the first empirical evidence consistent with the existence of an extensive reduction in gene expression heterogeneity for processes that concur with cell dedifferentiation by analyzing transcriptome dynamics along forearm regenerative development inAmbystoma mexicanumor axolotl. Also, I briefly discuss on the utility of the study of gene expression heterogeneity dynamics might have for the characterization of cell dedifferentiation-based processes, and the engineering of tools that afforded better monitoring and modulating such processes. Finally, I reflect on how a transitional reduction in gene expression heterogeneity for dedifferentiated cells can promote a long-term increase in phenotypic heterogeneity following cell dedifferentiation with potential adverse effects for biomedical and biotechnological applications.
Distribution and abundance of postlarvae and juveniles of shrimps of the genus Penaeus in Kino Bay and La Cruz lagoon, Sonora, Mexico
Authors: Grijalva-Chon JM , Barraza-Guardado RH
Published: November 2017

Samplings with plankton net, cast net and otter trawl were made every two weeks to estimate the distribution and abundance of Penaeus shrimp postlarvae and juveniles in Kino Bay (IX/89-IX/90) and La Cruz coastal lagoon (VII/89-IV/91), Sonora, Mexico. The postlarvae were present from June to November, with maximum average abundance in July 1990: 220.58 postlarvae/10 m3 in La Cruz and 72.5 postlarvae/10 m3 in Kino Bay. Penaeus califoniensis was the most dominant species. There was no statistical evidence of postlarva aggregation at the sampling stations. Only juveniles of P. califoniensis (brown shrimp) and P. stylirostris (blue shrimp) were caught, dominating the first. The maximum total length of juveniles was 13 cm (brown shrimp) and 16 cm (blue shrimp). From length data, we believe that brown shrimp enter La Cruz at an earlier developmental stage than blue shrimp.
Heavy metals in fishes from Culiacan Valley, Sinaloa, Mexico
Authors: Izaguirre-Fierro G , Páez-Osuna F , Osuna-López JI
Published: November 2017

Levels of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn were evaluated in edible muscle, gill and viscera of the fishes Mugil curema and Tilapia mossambica, collected in April 1988 from the Chiricahueto and Bataoto lagoons and Culiacán River, on the northwestem coast of Mexico. In general, the highest concentrations were found in the fishes from Chiricahueto lagoon and the lowest in fishes from the Culiacán River. The levels observed were compared with those reported for other areas in the same species or genus. The Cu concentrations in the edible muscle of T. mossambica for this study (5.6 µg/g) were twofold than the levels found in Mexicali Valley, Baja California, Mexico (2.6 µg/g). The Cu levels in edible muscle of M. curema (6.3 µg/g) were threefold than the Cu levels of Mugil cephalus (1.9 µg/g) reported for the Miami coast. Although the Cu levels were relatively high, they did not exceed those established by the Intemational Public Health Legislation.
Oxygen consumption, ammonia excretion and osmoregulation of callinectes similis Juveniles (Crustacea: Portunidae) exposed to fluctuating salinities
Authors: Díaz-Herrera F , Pérez-Cruz E , Luna-Figueroa J , Tapia-Gamas A , Rosas-Vázquez C
Published: November 2017

The oxygen consumption of Callinectes similis was determined under salinity fluctuations. The metabolic rate remained unchanged (P > 0.05) and within a metabolic range of 1.23 to 2.08 mg O2.h–l.g–l D.W., exhibiting a type IV response according to Kinne (1971). Ammonia excretion rose significantly to 0.028 mg N-NH4.h–l.g–l D.W. (P < 0.05) as the salinity decreased from 35 to 24‰; in a salinity range of 18-12-18‰ it remained unchanged at 0.021 mg N-NH4.h–l.g–l D.W. It increased at 26‰to 0.029 mg N-NH4.h–l.g–l D.W. and there was a minimum value of 0.012 mg N-NH4.h–l.g–l D.W. at 35‰. The O:N atomic ratio calculated for C. similis indicates that the crabs were not significantly affected (P > 0.05) by osmotic stress. In high salinities catabolism is based on carbohydrates and in lower salinities on a mixture of lipids and carbohydrates. The osmoregulatory pattern exhibited by C. similis is of an osmoconforming organism, the hemolymph was only slightly hyperosmotic in higher and isosmotic in lower salinities.
Analysis of the taxocoenosis of copepods in the lagoon complex of Magdalena-Almejas Bay, B.C.S., in 1985-1986
Authors: Palomares-García JR
Published: November 2017

In April and August 1985 and February and May 1986, the taxocoenosis of copepods in the lagoon complex of Magdalena-Almejas Bay was similar to that found in other lagoon environments, where the planktonic community is characterized by pronounced dominance of the species belonging to the genus Acartia. The dominant species throughout the study period were A. clausi and A. lilljeborgii. The structure of the taxocoenosis presents a cyclic variation pattern, closely related to temporal changes in the environment. With regard to spatial distribution, a differential influence of outside waters was observed, with oceanic and neritic species predominating in the area adjacent to the mouths of Magdalena Bay and Almejas Bay, and species of the genus Acartia and others characteristic of confined environments predominating in the inner parts.
Seasonal abundances of the harbor seal (Phoca vitulina richardsi Gray 1864), at Punta Banda Estuary (B.C., Mexico)
Authors: Loya-Salinas DH , Palacios E , González S
Published: November 2017

In order to know the present abundance and seasonal variability of the seals (Phoca vitulina richardsi Gray, 1864) hauling at the inner northwest portion of Punta Banda Estuary (Baja California, Mexico), 40 counts were carried out between November 1988 and August 1990. The average abundance during the study period was 52 individuals, although a significant seasonal variability was noted. The largest mean abundance occurred in spring (X = 69; n = 12; range = 31-110) and it was the best season to assess the number of seals that use the estuary. The lowest abundance was recorded in summer (X = 28; n = 5; range = 2-72) while in autumn the number of seals was lower than in winter and spring (X = 31; n = 8; range = 18-48). The maximum seal counts were noted in winter, although their average abundance was lower than in spring (X = 58; n = 15; range = 18-151) since the herd increased by the occasional presence of pups and juveniles. No relationship was found between the abundance of seals and the sea level. The seasonal variation in the size of the herd was associated with its breeding season which occurs late in winter and with herd movements to other near haul-out sites.