bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efectos Neuropsicológicos y Fisiológicos de la Terapia EMDR en una Mujer con Trastorno por Estrés Postraumático: Un Caso de Estudio
Authors: Estrada Aranda Benito Daniel , Molina Ronquillo Nathalí , Navarro Calvillo María Elena
Published: October 2018

Este artículo presenta una revisión completa de literatura acerca del impacto neurocognitivo del trastorno por estrés postraumático (TEPT) e informa acerca de un caso de estudio único cuantitativo, el cual investigó si la terapia de reprocesamiento y desensibilización a través del movimiento ocular (EMDR por sus siglas en inglés) cambiaría las respuestas neuropsicológicas y fisiológicas de una paciente de 18 años de edad de sexo femenino diagnosticada con TEPT comórbido y trastorno depresivo mayor. Se proporcionaron once sesiones de terapia EMDR, de 90 minutos cada una, administradas una vez a la semana. Utilizamos equipo de bioretroalimentación (Equipo Infiniti-ProComp5) para obtener registros de frecuencia cardiaca y conductividad de la piel mientras que la paciente estaba en fases de reprocesamiento de la terapia EMDR. Los resultados mostraron una disminución de ritmo cardiaco entre las bases de referencia del principio y fin del tratamiento. Las evaluaciones neuropsicológicas de atención, memoria y las funciones ejecutivas del cerebro mostraron deficiencias de pre-tratamiento en los procesos de atención, velocidad de procesamiento de información y memoria de trabajo, así como mejora en el post-tratamiento de estas funciones cognitivas con diferencias significativas en la Prueba de Adición del Ritmo de Serie Auditiva (PASAT, siglas en inglés). Encontramos una disminución importante pos-tratamiento en los puntajes promedio del Inventario de Depresión de Beck-II y en la Escala de Experiencias Disociativas. Además, la paciente no mostró signos de TEPT después de la intervención basado en la Escala Global de Estrés Postraumático. Discutimos como la mejora de los síntomas de TEPT está asociada con los resultados neurocognitivos mejorados.
Comparação entre a altura do salto agachado e com contramovimento em idosas
Authors: Zazá Daniela Coelho , Chagas Mauro Heleno , Melo Cristina Carvalho , Noce Franco
Published: October 2018

O estudo teve como objetivo comparar a altura no salto agachado (SA) e no com contramovimento (SCM) de mulheres idosas. Vinte e oito mulheres idosas sedentárias voluntariaram-se para participar neste estudo (idade média de 68,7±5,9 anos). Cada sujeito foi instruído sobre como executar as técnicas de salto e descansaram 5 minutos entre a realização dos diferentes saltos. A média de 3 tentativas de cada salto foi utilizada para a análise estatística. A força de reação do solo (FRS) vertical durante o SA e o SCM foi mensurada por meio de uma plataforma de força. A integração numérica da FRS vertical no tempo foi utilizada para o cálculo do impulso e assim estimar a altura do salto. O teste T para amostras pareadas mostrou que a altura do salto no SCM foi significativamente maior do que no SA.
Comparação da frequência cardíaca e percepção subjetiva de esforço entre o Tênis de mesa e o game table Tennis nos consoles Xbox Kinect e Nintendo Wii
Authors: Vaghetti César Augusto Otero , Machado João Viane , Del Vecchio Fabrício Boscolo
Published: October 2018

O estudo objetivou verificar e comparar a frequência cardíaca (FC) e a percepção subjetiva de esforço (PSE) durante o gameplay entre o Tênis de Mesa (TM) e o game do table tennis nos consoles Kinect Xbox (TTK) e no Nintendo Wii (TTW). Participaram do estudo 12 homens com 21,8 ± 3,1 (anos), 81 ± 11,24 (kg) e 176 ± 7 (cm). Os games geraram valores similares de FC média em TTW (83,67 ± 16,7 bpm) e TTK (89,67 ± 16,32 bpm), mas durante o TM foi observada demanda cardiovascular superior (103,50 ± 23,9 bpm). A PSE média encontrada no TTW (1,5 ± 0,67 ua) foi estatisticamente menor que no TM (2,67 ± 0,78 ua), mas não diferiu do TTK (2 ± 1,04 us). Os resultados sugerem que o Tênis de Mesa virtual, em ambos consoles, não é eficiente para aumentar a demanda cardiovascular.
A imagem como experiência: Cabe a Alma
Authors: Santos Maria Ivone dos
Published: October 2018

Partindo de uma narrativa de circunstância de uma caminhada pelo meu bairro, passo a refletir sobre modos de produção das fotografias do arquivo Cabe a Alma, um processo iniciado em 2013. Problematizo as questões decorrentes da experiência de retrovisão e reflexão, apresentando um conjunto de imagens obtidas em deslocamentos utilizando superfícies espelhadas. Faço igualmente uma breve incursão histórica sobre o uso de dispositivos ópticos por pintores paisagistas e amadores do século XVII. Em tempos de velocidade e de compartilhamentos de imagens, retomo procedimentos de captura pré-fotográficos e, através de uma meta-fotografia, busco exercitar uma atenção mais lenta e uma experiência deslocada da cidade. Do mesmo modo, busco espacializar essas fotografias nas exposições que realizei entre 2013 e 2016, de forma a construir um pensamento sobre o lugar.
Por que ensinar tempo geológico na educação básica?
Authors: Chaves Rafaela Santos , Moraes Simone Souza de , Lira-da-Silva Rejâne Maria
Published: October 2018

Tempo Geológico é uma das construções mais importantes do pensamento científico, é essencial na tomada de decisões socialmente responsáveis sobre uso de recursos naturais e mudanças ambientais e é fundamental para compreender Evolução. A construção desta noção envolveu a aceitação de ideias ao longo da história da Geologia, portanto, defendemos que sua complexidade deve-se ao seu desenvolvimento histórico, em que conhecimentos diversos precisaram ser mobilizados. Este trabalho de revisão mostra que, nas escolas, algumas dificuldades para compreender Tempo Geológico são: elevado grau de abstração; interpretação de números grandes, escalas e eventos distantes da experiência humana; conflitos religiosos que interferem na aquiescência de uma Terra muito antiga. Propostas para superá-las são: uso de analogias; atividades que mobilizem perspectivas dinâmicas da Terra; introdução da história das geociências; emprego de narrativas históricas. É imprescindível o desenvolvimento de investigações sobre ensino de Tempo Geológico no Brasil e atenção à formação de professores.
The value of urban trails, statuary and installations for Geoscience education: uses and abuses from the north of England and further afield
Authors: Murphy Phillip J. , Murphy Elizabeth
Published: October 2018

The origins, uses and fates of a number of purpose built urban educational resources sited in the north of England are reviewed. These include walk on geological maps, building stone trails, a church gate and landscaping in a city park. A geological trail in the municipal cemetery of Rochdale dating from 1855 is a candidate for the oldest purpose made geological education trail in the world and the most recent educational resource was built in 2015. The destruction of a walk on geological map of England and Wales in 2004 shows that such valuable geoscience educational resources are in need of protection. A range of educational uses of these resources are suggested. Comparison is made with similar resources in London, both statuary and web based, and ways to ensure their preservation and continued educational use are suggested. This study shows that a geoscience education resource, if sited in the right place and looked after, can be an exciting and inspirational education resource in regular use for over half a century.
Nanowires in Magnetic Drug Targeting
Authors: Moghimi Zafar Ali , Baniasadi Fazel , Naghieh Gholamreza
Published: October 2018

AbstractMagnetic drug targeting can be used for locoregional cancer therapy, although the limitation is minuteness of the induced force. A new and simple procedure to enhance the magnetic force is changing the shape of carrier particles. It has been mathematically proved that exerting much stronger magnetic dipoles to nanowires are more possible than to spheres with the same volume. The magnetic dipole of wires having aspect quotient (ratio of length to diameter) of 3 is higher than the spheres of the same volume. Nanowires with α = 5 have magnetic dipoles 1.95 times greater than the spheres with the same volume. At a fixed radius, the magnetic dipole increases with the volume of the drug carrier. Magnetic targeting depth is an important parameter depending on the aspect quotient α of particles. Calculations show that the depth of targeting can exceed 8.5 cm if a nanowire with 15 nm radius and length larger than 150 nm is used as the drug carrier. This depth is 1.7 times more than that reported by previous authors for spherical particles with the same-volume.
Cyclone Evacuation Route Identification Using GIS for Coastal Communities in Mirzaganj Union, Patuakhali, Bangladesh
Authors: Billah Maruf , Sarker Sraboni , Ansary Mehedi Ahmed
Published: October 2018

Evacuation is the primary and most important preparedness initiative to save people from the devastating effects of a cyclone. For proper evacuation, a route is specifically chosen that will play a role during cyclones. In this study, Geographic information system has been applied for evacuation route planning for Mirzaganj Union, Patuakhali, Bangladesh. The study is based on questionnaire surveys; direct observation and literature review on the existing sheltering system and develops an evacuation route using the shortest distance analysis. This study provides us an idea how we can manage our population to find out suitable nearby shelters and the limitations that we should focused on. The result shows that only 12% of the total population gets shelter opportunity with the existing official shelter capacity by identifying evacuation route with the shortest distance and the shortest time needed. Shortest distance and time have been calculated for each cyclone shelters. If we consider the low vulnerable infrastructures as shelter, 75% of the total population can be accommodated. This study demonstrates the utilization of an ideal evacuation route planning in the coastal parts of Bangladesh.
The application of ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy and the Reversible DNA Conformation as a Sensor to Test the Effectiveness of Platinum(II) Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Al-Jorani Khansa , Rüther Anja , Martin Miguela , Haputhanthri Rukshani , Deacon Glen B. , Li Hsiu Lin , Wood Bayden R.
Published: October 2018

Platinum(II) complexes have been found to be effective against cancer cells. Cisplatin curbs cell replication by interacting with the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), eventually leading to cell death and reducing cell proliferation. In order to investigate the ability of platinum complexes to affect cancer cells, two examples from the class of polyflurophenylorganoamidoplatinum(II) complexes were synthesised and tested on isolated DNA. The two compounds trans-[N,N’-bis(1,2,3,5,6-pentafluorophenyl)ethane-1,2-diaminato(1-)](2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzoato)(pyridine)platinum(II) (PFB), and trans-[N,N’-bis(1,2,3,5,6-pentafluorophenyl)ethane-1,2-diaminato(1-)](2,4,6-trimethylbenzoato)(pyridine)platinum(II) (TMB) were compared with cisplatin through their reaction with DNA. Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy was applied to analyse the interaction of the Pt(II) complexes with DNA in the hydrated, dehydrated and rehydrated state. These were compared with control DNA in acetone/water (PFB, TMB) and isotonic saline (cisplatin) under the same conditions. Principle Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to compare the ATR-FTIR spectra of the untreated control DNA with spectra of PFB and TMB treated DNA samples. Disruptions in the conformation of DNA treated with the Pt(II) complexes upon rehydration were mainly observed by monitoring the position of the IR-band around 1711 cm-1 assigned to the DNA base-stacking vibration. Furthermore, other intensity changes in the phosphodiester bands of DNA at ~1234 cm-1 and 1225 cm-1 and shifts in the dianionic phosphodiester vibration at 966 cm-1 were observed. The isolated double stranded DNA (dsDNA) or single stranded DNA (ssDNA) showed different structural changes when incubated with the studied compounds. PCA confirmed PFB had the most dramatic effect by denaturing both dsDNA and ssDNA. Both compounds, along with cisplatin, induced changes in DNA bands at 1711, 1088, 1051 and 966 cm-1 indicative of DNA conformation changes. The ability to monitor conformational change with infrared spectroscopy paves the way for a sensor to screen for new anticancer therapeutic agents.
Biological Activities of Extracts from Aerial Parts of Salvia pachyphylla
Authors: Almada-Taylor Gabriela , Díaz-Rubio Laura , Salazar-Aranda Ricardo , Waskman de Torres Noemí , Uranga-Solis Carla , Delgadillo-Rodríguez José , Ramos-Ibarra Marco , Padrón José M. , Hernández-Martínez Rufina , Córdova-Guerrero Iván
Published: October 2018

The antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, and enzyme inhibitory properties of five extracts from aerial parts of Salvia pachyphylla were examined to assess the prospective of this plant as a source of natural products with therapeutic potential. Those properties were analyzed performing a set of standard assays. The extract obtained with dichloromethane showed the most variety of components, as yielded promising results in all completed assays. Furthermore, the extract obtained with ethyl acetate exhibited that greatest antioxidant activity as well as the best xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity. Remarkably, both extracts obtained with n-hexane or dichloromethane revealed significant antimicrobial activity against the Gram-positive bacteria; also, they showed greater antiproliferative activity against three representative cell lines of the most common types of cancers in women worldwide, and against a cell line that exemplifies cancers that typically develop drug resistance. Despite that other extracts were less active, such as the methanolic or aqueous, their results are promising for the isolation and identification of novel bioactive molecules. 
Numerical Demonstration of In-Tube Liquid-Column Migration Driven by Photoisomerization
Authors: Nitta Kei , Tsukahara Takahiro
Published: October 2018

Liquid manipulation by photoisomerization attracts recent attentions as a new active droplet control method for micro-chemical analysis. Such a non-inverse manipulation can be realized by a use of solution liquid of surfactant that exhibits the \emph{cis}-\emph{trans} isomerization triggered by light irradiation with a specific wavelength such as ultraviolet light. Since the isomerization is accompanied by changes in fluid properties, a light irradiation on one of liquid-air interfaces of a liquid column in a tube would generate differences in the wettability accompanied between the both sides of the finite liquid column. Although this technique has been demonstrated experimentally by Muto et al. (\emph{Euro.~Phys.~J.~Special Topics}, {\bf 226}, 2016, 1199--1205), its dynamics and developments of each isomer distribution are not understood. In order to reveal the liquid-column migration phenomenon, we have performed numerical simulations of air-liquid two-phase flows and its scalar transport of the isomer, using the Volume-of-Fluid method in conjunction with the Continuum-Surface-Force model and Continuous-Species-Transfer method. We validated present results by comparison with experimental result in terms of the migration distance of the liquid column. We confirmed a termination of the liquid-column migration occurs when the \emph{cis} isomer distribution reaches the non-irradiated region. The migration speed was less dependent on the liquid-column length and was proportional to the tube diameter.
Optimal Routing for Time-Driven EH-WSN under Regular Energy Sources
Authors: Galmés Sebastià
Published: October 2018

The recent provision of energy-harvesting capabilities to wireless sensor networks has entailed the redefinition of design objectives. Specifically, the traditional goal of maximizing network lifetime has been replaced by optimizing network performance, namely delay and throughput. The present paper contributes to this reformulation by considering the routing problem for the class of time-driven energy-harvesting WSN (EH-WSN) under regular or quasi-periodic energy sources. In particular, this paper shows that the minimum hop count (MHC) criterion maximizes the average duty cycle that can be sustained by nodes in this type of scenarios. This is a primary objective in EH-WSN, since large duty cycles lead to enhanced performance. Based on a previous result, a general expression is first obtained which gives mathematical form to the relationship between duty cycle and traffic load for any node in a time-driven EH-WSN fed by a regular energy source. This expression reveals that the duty cycle achievable by a node decreases as its traffic load increases. Then, it is shown that MHC minimizes the average traffic load over the network, and thus it maximizes the average duty cycle of nodes. This result is numerically validated via simulation by comparison with other well-known routing strategies. Accordingly, this paper suggests assigning top priority to the MHC criterion in the development of routing protocols for time-driven EH-WSN under regular energy sources.
Numerical Evaluation for Coastal Community Storm Surge Flood Control Infrastructure
Authors: Davila Sara Esther , Garza Adan , Ho Jungseok
Published: October 2018

The Lower Rio Grande Valley, South Texas is considered one of the more vulnerable coastal areas to flooding related with abrupt climate changes. From 1980-2017, there were 7 flooding events, 57 severe storm events, and 8 tropical cyclone events with losses exceeding $1 billion in the State of Texas, according to NOAA NCEI. Coastal flooding is typically a result of storm surge and heavy rainfall produced by hurricanes and tropical storms. In this study, the two-dimensional hydrodynamic flow circulation model is developed to predict the Lower Rio Grande Valley coastal area inundation due to the hurricane storm surge, especially in the case of Hurricane Beulah, 1967. The tropical cyclone properties and tidal constituents were assigned to the updated watershed geographic information with the bottom bathymetric and roughness data. For model validation, the Hurricane Dolly 2008 storm surge due to Hurricane Beulah at the coast and the storm surge reaches up to approximately 40 kilometers west from the coast through a natural river channel. This model can be used for a reliable engineering tool for the coastal hazard emergency management and disaster mitigation.
Cogging Torque Reduction Based on a New Pre-Slot Technique for a Small Wind Generator
Authors: García-Gracia Miguel , Jiménez Romero Ángel , Herrero Ciudad Jorge , Martín Arroyo Susana
Published: October 2018

Cogging torque is a pulsating, parasitic and undesired torque ripple intrinsic of the design of a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG), which should be minimized due to its adverse effects: vibration and noise. In addition, as aerodynamic power is low during start-up at low wind speeds in small wind energy systems, the cogging torque must be as low as possible to achieve a low cut-in speed. A novel mitigation technique using compound pre-slotting, based on a combination of magnetic and non-magnetic materials, is investigated. The finite element technique is used to calculate the cogging torque of a real PMSG design for a small wind turbine, with and without using compound pre-slotting. The results show that cogging torque can be reduced by a factor of 48% with this technique, while avoiding the main drawback of the conventional pre-slotting technique: the reduction of induced voltage due to leakage flux between stator teeth. Furthermore, through a combination of pre-slotting and other cogging torque optimization techniques, 84%, cogging torque can be eliminated for a given design.
Asymmetry in Exchange Rate Pass-Through to Consumer Prices: New Perspective from Sub-Saharan African Countries
Authors: Kassi Diby Francois , Sun Gang , Ning Ding , Edjoukou Akadje Jean Roland , Gnangoin Yobouet Thierry
Published: October 2018

This paper examines the asymmetrical relationship between exchange rate and consumer prices in 40 Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries from 1990q1 to 2017q4. The exchange rate pass-through (ERPT) to consumer prices is estimated for each country by using the nonlinear autoregressive distributed lags (NARDL) framework and dynamic panel estimators robust to cross-sectionally correlated errors. Firstly, our findings suggest an asymmetrical ERPT in the SSA region during the short-term, whereas there are mixed results across sub-regions in the long-term. Next, we find incomplete and significant ERPT to consumer prices in the entire SSA region which is higher during the depreciation of the local currency than after appreciations. Third, we find nonlinear ERPT with respect to the size of the exchange rate. The pass-through is higher during large exchange rate changes than after small changes.  Finally, we find that the pass-through is greater in the countries with fixed exchange rate regime (CFA franc zone) having low inflationary environment than in the other SSA countries with flexible exchange rate regime and high inflation levels. As a result, policymakers should take into account these asymmetries and non-linearities to improve the credibility of monetary policy, strengthen trade liberalization and establish competitive market structures in the Sub-Saharan region.
Another Power Identity Involving Binomial Theorem and Faulhaber's Formula
Authors: Kolosov Petro
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we derive and prove, by means of Binomial theorem and Faulhaber's formula, the following identity between $m$-order polynomials in $T$ $$\sum_{k=1}^{\ell}\sum_{j=0}^m A_{m,j}k^j(T-k)^j=\sum_{k=0}^{m}(-1)^{m-k}U_m(\ell,k)\cdot T^k=T^{2m+1}, \ \ell=T\in\mathbb{N}.$$
Natural Killer Cell Dysfunction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Pathogenesis and Clinical Implications
Authors: Sung Pil Soo , Jang Jeong Won
Published: October 2018

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is currently the third leading cause of malignancy-related mortalities worldwide. Natural killer (NK) cells are involved in the critical role of first line immunological defense against cancer development. Defects in NK cell functions are recognized as important mechanisms for immune evasion of tumor cells. NK cell function appears to be attenuated in HCC, and many previous reports suggested that NK cells play a critical role in controlling HCC, suggesting that boosting the activity of dysfunctional NK cells can enhance tumor cell killing. However, the detailed mechanisms of NK cell dysfunction in tumor microenvironment of HCC remain largely unknown. A better understanding of the mechanisms of NK cell dysfunction in HCC will help in the NK cell-mediated eradication of cancer cells and prolong patient survival. In this review, we describe the various mechanisms underlying NK cell dysfunction in HCC. Further, we summarize current advances in the approaches to enhance endogenous NK cell function and in adoptive NK cell therapies, to cure this difficult-to-treat cancer.
CTCF Expression Is Essential for Somatic Cell Viability and Protection against Cancer
Authors: Bailey Charles G. , Metierre Cynthia , Feng Julie , Baidya Kinsha , Filippova Galina N. , Loukinov Dmitri I. , Lobanenkov Victor V. , Semaan Crystal , Rasko John E.J.
Published: October 2018

CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) is a conserved transcription factor that performs diverse roles in transcriptional regulation and chromatin architecture. Cancer genome sequencing reveals diverse acquired mutations in CTCF, which we have shown, functions as a tumour suppressor gene. While CTCF is essential for embryonic development, little is known of its absolute requirement in somatic cells and the consequences of CTCF haploinsufficiency. We examined the consequences of CTCF depletion in immortalised human and mouse cells using shRNA knockdown and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and examined the growth and development of heterozygous Ctcf (Ctcf+/-) mice. We also analysed the impact of CTCF haploinsufficiency by examining gene expression changes in CTCF-altered endometrial carcinoma. Knockdown and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated editing of CTCF reduced the cellular growth and colony-forming ability of K562 cells. CTCF knockdown also induced cell cycle arrest and a pro-survival response to apoptotic insult. However, in p53 shRNA-immortalised Ctcf+/- MEFs we observed the opposite: increased cellular proliferation, colony formation, cell cycle progression and decreased survival after apoptotic insult compared to wild type MEFs. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated targeting in Ctcf+/- MEFs revealed a predominance of in-frame microdeletions in Ctcf in surviving clones, however protein expression could not be ablated. Examination of CTCF mutations in endometrial cancers showed locus-specific alterations in gene expression due to CTCF haploinsufficiency, in concert with downregulation of tumour suppressor genes and upregulation of estrogen-responsive genes. Depletion of CTCF expression imparts a dramatic negative effect on normal cell function. However, CTCF haploinsufficiency can have growth-promoting effects consistent with known cancer hallmarks in the presence of additional genetic hits. Our results confirm the absolute requirement for CTCF expression in somatic cells and provide definitive evidence of CTCF’s role as a haploinsufficient tumour suppressor gene. CTCF genetic alterations in endometrial cancer indicate that gene dysregulation is a likely consequence of CTCF loss, contributing to, but not solely driving cancer growth.
Soil Moisture in the Biebrza Wetlands Retrieved from Sentinel-1 Imagery
Authors: Dabrowska-Zielinska Katarzyna , Musial Jan , Malinska Alicja , Budzynska Maria , Gurdak Radoslaw , Kiryla Wojciech , Bartold Maciej , Grzybowski Patryk
Published: October 2018

Soil moisture (SM) plays an essential role in environmental studies related to wetlands, an ecosystem sensitive to climate change. Hence, there is the need for its constant monitoring. SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) satellite imagery is the only mean to fulfill this objective regardless of the weather. The objective of the study was to develop the methodology for SM retrieval under wetland vegetation using Sentinel-1 (S-1) satellite data. The study was carried out during the years 2015–2017 in the Biebrza Wetlands, situated in northeastern Poland. At the Biebrza Wetlands, two Sentinel-1 validation sites were established, covering grassland and marshland biomes, where a network of 18 stations for soil moisture measurement was deployed. The sites were funded by the European Space Agency (ESA), and the collected measurements are available through the International Soil Moisture Network (ISMN). The NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) was derived from the optical imagery of a MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) sensor onboard the Terra satellite. The SAR data of the Sentinel-1 satellite with VH (vertical transmit and horizontal receive) and VV (vertical transmit and vertical receive) polarization were applied to soil moisture retrieval for a broad range of NDVI values and soil moisture conditions. The new methodology is based on research into the effect of vegetation on backscatter () changes under different soil moisture and vegetation (NDVI) conditions. It was found that the state of the vegetation may be described by the difference between  VH and  VV, or the ratio of  VV/VH, as calculated from the Sentinel-1 images. The most significant correlation coefficient for soil moisture was found for data that was acquired from the ascending tracks of the Sentinel-1 satellite, characterized by the lowest incidence angle, and SM at a depth of 5 cm. The study demonstrated that the use of the inversion approach, which was applied to the new developed models and includes the derived indices based on S-1, allowed the estimation of SM for peatlands with reasonable accuracy (RMSE ~ 10 vol. %). Due to the temporal frequency of the two S-1 satellites’ (S-1A and S-1B) acquisitions, it is possible to monitor SM changes every six days. The conclusion drawn from the study emphasizes a demand for the derivation of specific soil moisture retrieval algorithms that are suited for wetland ecosystems, where soil moisture is several times higher than in agricultural areas.
Preparation and Characterization of Bioplastics from Grass Pea Flour Cast in the Presence of Microbial Transglutaminase
Authors: Giosafatto C. Valeria L. , Al-Asmar Asmaa , D'Angelo Antonio , Roviello Valentina , Esposito Marilena , Mariniello Loredana
Published: October 2018

The aim of this work was to prepare bioplastics from renewable and biodegradable molecules. In particular, the bioplastics were produced by using as biopolymer source the grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) flour, the proteins of which were structurally modified by means of microbial transglutaminase, an enzyme able to catalyze isopeptide bonds between glutamines and lysines. We analyzed, by means of Zeta-potential, the flour suspension with the aim to choose which pH is more stable for the production of film-forming solutions. The bioplastics were produced by casting and they were characterized according to several technological properties. Optical analysis demonstrated that films cast in the presence of the microbial enzyme are more transparent compared to the untreated ones. Moreover, the visualization by Scanning Electron Microscopy demonstrated that the enzyme-modified films possessed a more compact and homogeneous structure. Furthermore, the presence of microbial transglutaminase allowed to obtain film more mechanically resistant. Finally, digestion experiments under physiological conditions performed in order to obtain information useful for applying these novel biomaterials as carriers in the industrial field, indicated that the enzyme-treated coatings might allow the delivery of bioactive molecules in the gastro-intestinal tract.
Scaling Law for Liquid Splashing inside a Container Drop Impact on a Solid Surface
Authors: Sun Bohua
Published: October 2018

This letter attempts to find splashing height of liquid-filled container drop impact to a solid surface by dimensional analysis (DA). Two solutions were obtained by both traditional DA and directed DA without solving any governing equations. It is found that the directed DA can provide much more useful information than the traditional one. This study shows that the central controlling parameter is called splash number $\mathrm{Sp}=\mathrm{Ga} \mathrm{La}=(\frac{gR^3}{\nu^2})(\frac{\sigma R}{\rho \nu^2})$, which is the collective performance of each quantity. The splash height is given by $ h=H F(\mathrm{Sp})$. From the physics of the splashing number, we can have a fair good picture on the physics of the liquid splashing as follows: the jets propagation will generate vortex streets from the container bottom due to sudden pressure increasing from drop impact (water-hammer effect), which will travel along the container sidewall to the centre of the container and subsequently excite a gravity wave on the liquid surface. The interaction between the gravitational force, surface force and viscous force is responsible for creating droplet splash at the liquid surface.
Bone marrow derived extracellular vesicles activate osteoclast differentiation in traumatic brain injury induced bone loss
Authors: Singleton Quante , Vaibhav Kumar , Braun Molly , Khayrullin Andrew , Mendhe Bharati , Kolhe Ravindra , Kaiser Helen , Awad Mohamed E. , Fariyike Tunde , Elsayed Ranya , Elsalanty Mohammed , Isales Carlos M. , Liu Yutao , Hamrick Mark W. , Dhandapani Krishnan M. , Fulzele Sadanand
Published: October 2018

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major source of worldwide morbidity and mortality. Patients suffering from TBI exhibit a higher susceptibility to bone loss and an increased rate of bone fractures; however, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly defined. Herein, we observed significantly lower bone quality and elevated levels of inflammation in bone and bone marrow niche after controlled cortical impact-induced TBI in in-vivo CD-1 mice. Further, we identified dysregulated NFB signaling, an established mediator of osteoclast differentiation and bone loss, within the bone marrow niche of TBI mice. Ex vivo studies revealed increased osteoclast differentiation in bone marrow-derived cells from TBI mice, as compared to sham injured mice. Finally, we found bone marrow derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) from TBI mice enhanced the colony forming ability and osteoclast differentiation efficacy of bone marrow cells and activated NFB signaling genes in bone marrow-derived cells. Taken together, we provide evidence that TBI-induced inflammatory stress on bone and the bone marrow niche may activate NFB leading to accelerated bone loss. Targeted inhibition of these signaling pathways may reverse TBI-induced bone loss and reduce fracture rates.
X-ray Micro-Ct Supporting the South African Additive Manufacturing Community †
Authors: du Plessis Anton , le Roux S.G.
Published: October 2018

This paper presents the latest developments in microCT, both globally and locally, for supporting the additive manufacturing industry. There are a number of recently developed capabilities which are especially relevant to the non-destructive quality inspection of additive manufactured parts; and also for advanced process optimization. These new capabilities are all locally available but not yet utilized to their full potential, most likely due to a lack of knowledge of these capabilities. The aim of this paper is therefore to fill this gap and provide an overview of these latest capabilities, showcasing numerous local examples.
Metal Body Armour: Biomimetic Engineering of Lattice Structures †
Authors: du Plessis Anton , Broeckhoven C.
Published: October 2018

Biomimicry in additive manufacturing often refers to topology optimization and the use of lattice structures, due to the organic shape of the topology-optimized designs, and the lattices often looking similar to many light-weight structures found in nature such as trabecular bone, wood, sponges, coral, to name a few. Real biomimetic design however involves the use of design principles taken in some way from natural systems. In this work we use a methodology whereby high resolution 3D analysis of a natural material with desirable properties is “reverse-engineered” and the design tested for the purpose. This allows more accurate replication of the desired properties, and adaption of the design parameters to the material used for production (which usually differs from the biological material). One such example is the impact-protective natural design of the glyptodont body armour. In this paper we report on the production of body armour models in metal (Ti4Al4V) and analyze the resulting mechanical properties, assessing their potential for impact protective applications. This is the first biomimetic study using metal additive manufacturing to date.
“What a Mobility-Limited World”: Design Requirements of an Age-Friendly Playable City
Authors: Vale Costa Liliana , Veloso Ana Isabel , Loizou Michael , Arnab Sylvester , Tomlins Richard , Sukumar Arun
Published: October 2018

A key concern in an ageing society is citizens’ mobility. As populations age, disability impairments can affect active ageing, health-related wellbeing and quality of life. In this paper, we present the on-going research project SeriousGiggle—Game-based learning for triggering active ageing. Its goal is to assess the potential of game-based learning for active ageing and contribute to a sense of wellbeing and quality of life. It also seeks to improve the mobility of older adults by creating a set of journey plans with route guidance that are rated in terms of safety, community support, environment and age-friendliness. Drawn on our field work with 33 co-designers, 40 end users and 10 semi-structured interviews with Subject Matter Experts, we identify a set of necessary design requirements to an Age-friendly Playable City. This study recommends the use of gamification and playful techniques to engage the end-users to provide information about local traffic signs, pavement conditions, wayfinding and, therefore, help to create route guidance and walking assistance that are personalized to older adults’ context in terms of location, travel fitness, mobility impairments and motivations.
23-Year Trends in Life Expectancy in Good and Poor Physical and Cognitive Health at Age 65 Years in the Netherlands, 1993–2016
Authors: Deeg Dorly J. H. , Comijs Hannie C. , Hoogendijk Emiel O. , van der Noordt Maaike , Huisman Martijn
Published: October 2018

Objectives. To examine 23-year trends in both physically and cognitively healthy life expectancy from age 65 years in the Netherlands.

Methods. We used 8 waves between 1993 and 2016 from the nationally representative Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (12 948 observations). We calculated physically and cognitively healthy life expectancies by using the Sullivan life table method and tested prevalence trends over time by using generalized estimating equations.

Results. Total life expectancy at age 65 years rose from 14.7 to 18.7 years (men) and from 19.2 to 21.4 years (women). Life expectancy in poor physical health increased nonlinearly from 1.8 to 2.9 years for men; for women it fluctuated around 5.7 years. Meanwhile, life expectancy in good cognitive health increased linearly from 11.0 to 15.7 years (men) and from 13.4 to 18.0 years (women). The proportion of people with poor physical and poor cognitive health combined did not increase, averaging 5.9% (men) and 8.7% (women).

Conclusions. This multiwave study shows that a negative trend in physically healthy life expectancy is accompanied by a positive trend in cognitively healthy life expectancy.
Coming of Age in the Shadow of the Taliban: Adolescents’ and Parents’ Views Toward Interpersonal Violence and Harmful Traditional Practices in Afghanistan
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Rao Krishna , Natiq Kayhan , Pasha Omrana , Blum Robert
Published: October 2018

Objectives. To understand Afghan adolescents’ and parents’ attitudes toward interpersonal violence.

Methods. We used a 2-stage sampling method in 6 provinces during 2016; we included 916 adolescents aged 12 to 15 years and 454 parents.

Results. In the abstract, a minority of adolescents or parents endorsed violence; however, specific situations justified most violence (e.g., husbands beating wives, parents hitting children). Both adolescents (48.0%) and parents (39.0%) thought a wife hitting her husband was least justifiable. Endorsement of violence justification did not appear to vary significantly on the basis of parental education or wealth. More fathers rejected all violence rationale than did mothers, and women were more likely to justify wife beating (75.0% vs 58.6%; P < .01), beating of daughters (78.5% vs 60.6%; P < .01), and teachers hitting students (62.9% vs 51.5%; P < .01). Of all respondents, 25% approved of threatening a child if he or she speaks out against harmful traditional practices.

Conclusions. Although it may be socially unacceptable to advocate physical aggression, most Afghans still find numerous conditions that justify it. Without deliberate violence reduction strategies, education alone is unlikely to reduce the high levels of interpersonal violence in Afghanistan.
A propósito del territorio del ager mellariensis y del ager baedronensis en los límites de la Beturia de los túrdulos
Authors: IGLESIAS GIL José Manuel
Published: October 2018

Los recientes hallazgos en la comarca de Los Pedroches, en la provincia de Córdoba, de epígrafes romanos han modificado en los últimos años nuestros conocimientos en torno a su territorio en época imperial romana. Se abordan en este artículo los epígrafes con la mención de la origo de Mellaria y Baedro, prestando una especial atención a los lugares de procedencia concreta de los soportes epigráficos con el fin de determinar las áreas territoriales de influencia de Mellaria y Baedro y su posible relación con los espacios fronterizos naturales, como la divisoria de aguas del Guadiana y el Guadalquivir, las explotaciones mineras y el trazado topográfico de las vías romanas como indicadores complementarios.
Este artículo concluye con un apéndice actualizado de las inscripciones romanas conocidas que aluden a Mellarienses y Baedronenses.
La forma constructiva de herradura: su función en las obras de infraestructura Hispano-Musulmana (puentes y acueductos)
Authors: BERMÚDEZ CANO José Manuel
Published: October 2018

En este artículo estudiamos los arcos de herradura de las obras de infraestructura hispanomusulmanas, en el ámbito cordobés. La base del estudio se centra en el análisis de sus componentes técnicos y constructivos. Hemos diferenciado dos modelos de arcos que desarrollan dos formas constructivas diferenciadas, modelos para los que hemos establecido distintas hipótesis sobre su origen técnico y evolución cronológica.
Un conjunto cerámico post-califal procedente del yacimiento de Cercadilla, Córdoba
Authors: FUERTES SANTOS María del Camino
Published: October 2018

En este trabajo llevamos a cabo el análisis de un conjunto de formas cerámicas tardías encontradas en uno de los pozos de residuos del yacimiento de Cercadilla. Para ello no hemos abordado el estudio de cada una de las piezas ya que excedería el ámbito de estas líneas. Son algunas de las producciones y de las decoraciones las que han permitido definir la cronología de este lote cerámico, cuya datación oscila en torno al siglo XIII. La presencia de este muladar ha permitido constatar la ocupación en época tardía de este área de la ciudad, de la que hasta el momento no se tenía constancia.
El ángulo suroccidental de la muralla de Córdoba
Authors: MONTEJO CÓRDOBA Alberto J. , GARRIGUET MATA José Antonio
Published: October 2018

Presentamos en este trabajo el reciente hallazgo de un tramo correspondiente al hasta ahora desconocido lienzo meridional de las murallas romanas y árabe de Córdoba. A partir de esta evidencia intentaremos resolver, a manera todavía de hipótesis, la problemática conexión entre dicho lienzo Sur y la muralla occidental de la ciudad.
Evaluation of Biological Agents for Control of Macrophomina Root Rot and Powdery Mildew in Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida L.)
Authors: Mmbaga Margaret T. , Mackasmiel Lucas M. , Mrema Frank A.
Published: October 2018

Six biological control agents (BCAs) (two bacteria, two fungi, and two yeasts) that were previously shown to be effective against powdery mildew (Erysiphe pulchra) were tested for efficacy against Macrophomina phaseolina root rot on flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) in the greenhouse. Two of the bacterial isolates, Stenotrophomonas sp. (B17A) and Serratia sp. (B17B), were effective in controlling both macrophomina root rot and powdery mildew, similar to fungicide control thiophanate methyl, when roots were drenched with the six BCAs individually. In addition, the two bacterial BCAs improved plant growth with respect to stem diameter, stem length, dry weight, and green foliage compared with fungicide-treated plants or nontreated controls grown in sterile soil. These results confirm previous results in which B17A and B17B suppressed powdery mildew and also promoted plant growth in flowering dogwood. Although macrophomina root rot has been previously reported as a potential problem in flowering dogwood, especially in field conditions, simultaneous infection with macrophomina root rot and powdery mildew has not been previously reported. This study confirmed that M. phaseolina infection was characterized by stubby roots and black root lesions, and plants infected with both powdery mildew and macrophomina root rot had smaller root mass compared with fungicide-treated plants. Neither of the two pathogens killed their host plants, but compounded infections significantly reduced the plant root system and plant growth. The efficacy of the two bacterial isolates in controlling both powdery mildew and macrophomina root rot suggests their potential utilization in controlling both diseases in dogwood nursery production and in other plants that are hosts to both powdery mildew and macrophomina root rot. Plant growth promoted by the two BCAs may be attributed to powdery mildew and macrophomina root rot control, but comparisons between fungicide-treated plants and control plants not inoculated with BCAs or root rot pathogen suggested that the two BCAs may play a role as bio-stimulants in growth enhancement. These results also suggest that the two biocontrol agents are not phytotoxic to dogwood.
Protective Netting Improves Leaf-level Photosynthetic Light Use Efficiency in ‘Honeycrisp’ Apple Under Heat Stress
Authors: Mupambi Giverson , Musacchi Stefano , Serra Sara , Kalcsits Lee A. , Layne Desmond R. , Schmidt Tory
Published: October 2018

Globally, apple production often occurs in semiarid climates characterized by high summer temperatures and solar radiation. Heat stress events occur regularly during the growing season in these regions. For example, in the semiarid eastern half of Washington State, historic weather data show that, on average, 33% of the days during the growing season exceed 30 °C. To mediate some of the effects of heat stress, protective netting (PN) can be used to reduce the occurrence of fruit sunburn. However, the impacts of reduced solar radiation in a high light environment on light-use efficiency and photosynthesis are poorly understood. We sought to understand the ecophysiological response of apple (Malus domestica Borkh. cv. Honeycrisp) under blue photoselective PN during days with low (26.6 °C), moderate (33.7 °C), or high (38.1 °C) ambient temperatures. Two treatments were evaluated; an uncovered control and blue photoselective PN. Maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII, or photosystem II (Fv/Fm) was significantly greater at all measurement times under blue photoselective PN compared with the control on days with high ambient temperatures. Fv/Fm dropped below 0.79, which is considered the threshold for stress, at 1000 hr in the control and at 1200 hr under blue photoselective PN on a day with high ambient temperature. On days with low or moderate ambient temperatures, Fv/Fm was significantly greater under blue photoselective PN at 1400 hr, which coincided with the peak in solar radiation. ‘Honeycrisp’ apple exhibited dynamic photoinhibition as shown by the diurnal decline in Fv/Fm. Quantum photosynthetic yield of PSII (ΦPSII) was also generally greater under blue photoselective PN compared with the control for days with moderate or high ambient temperatures. Photochemical reflectance index (ΔPRI), the difference in reflectance between a stress-responsive and nonstress-responsive wavelength, was greater under PN compared with the control on the day with high ambient temperatures, with no differences observed under low or moderate ambient temperatures. Leaf gas exchange did not show noticeable improvement under blue photoselective netting when compared with the control despite the improvement in leaf-level photosynthetic light use efficiency. In conclusion, PN reduced incoming solar radiation, improved leaf-level photosynthetic light use efficiency, and reduced the symptoms of photoinhibition in a high-light, arid environment.