bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance and Return to Sport After Femoroacetabular Impingement Surgery in National Football League Players
Authors: Sochacki Kyle R. , Jack Robert A. , Hirase Takashi , Vickery Justin , McCulloch Patrick C. , Lintner David M. , Echo Anthony , Harris Joshua D.
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this study was to determine the (1) return-to-sport rate for National Football League (NFL) players following femoroacetabular impingement surgery, (2) postoperative career length and games per season, (3) pre- and postoperative performance, and (4) postoperative performance compared with control players matched by position, age, years of experience, and performance. National Football League athletes who underwent hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement and matched controls were identified. A Bonferroni correction was used to control for multiple comparisons, with statistical significance set at
P
≤.007. Fifty-five players (63 surgeries) were analyzed (mean age, 27.5±3.4 years; mean years in NFL at time of surgery, 4.7±2.9). Forty-seven (53 surgeries, 84.1%) NFL players returned to sport at a mean of 6.7±3.8 months following surgery. There was no difference (
P
>.007) in the mean career length of players in the control group (3.7±2.2 years) vs players who underwent hip arthroscopy (3.5±2.1 years). There was no difference (
P
>.007) in mean games played per season of players in the control group (12.5±3.1) vs those who underwent hip arthroscopy (12.1±4.0). Quarterbacks had significantly better postoperative performance scores when compared with post-index matched controls (
P
=.007). The return-to-sport rate is high for NFL athletes after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement. There were similar games per season and career lengths postoperatively compared with preoperatively and matched controls. Quarterbacks had significantly better postoperative performance when compared with matched controls. All other positions had similar postoperative performance compared with preoperatively and matched controls. [
Orthopedics
. 2019; 42(5):e423–e429.]
Synthetic Mesh Allograft Reconstruction for Extensor Mechanism Insufficiency After Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Bateman Dexter K. , Preston Jared S. , Kayiaros Stephen , Tria Alfred J.
Published: April 2019

Extensor mechanism (EM) insufficiency after knee arthroplasty is a rare but devastating complication resulting in severe disability. To date, primary repair and allograft reconstructive options have produced suboptimal results. A synthetic mesh allograft reconstruction technique has recently been introduced with promising outcomes. A retrospective chart review was performed to identify all patients who experienced EM failure after total or unicompartmental knee arthroplasty and subsequently underwent synthetic mesh EM reconstruction using a previously described technique. Patient demographics, pre- and postoperative knee range of motion and residual extensor lag, pre- and postoperative pain and functional outcome scores, and complications were extracted during the chart review. Twelve patients met inclusion criteria: 3 with patellar tendon and 9 with quadriceps tendon defects. At mean follow-up of 27.0 months, all patients were ambulatory, with a mean residual extensor lag of 12.9° (range, 0°–30°). Mean visual analog scale pain score decreased significantly after EM reconstruction: 4.6±2.3 (range, 1–8) preoperatively vs 1.8±2.4 (range, 0–7) postoperatively (
P
=.01). The mean Knee Society knee score improved from 41.5±11.1 (range, 21–57) preoperatively to 79.5±13.8 (range, 54–90) postoperatively (
P
<.0001). The mean Knee Society function score improved from 14.6±12.3 (range, 0–40) preoperatively to 64.2±27.1 (range, 5–95) postoperatively (
P
<.0001). One clinical failure occurred as a result of prosthetic joint infection. Synthetic mesh EM reconstruction effectively restores knee function for a variety of EM deficiencies following knee arthroplasty. [
Orthopedics.
2019; 42(4):e385–e390.]
A Systematic Review of the Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis Score and Its Utility in Orthopedics for Diagnosing Necrotizing Fasciitis in Adults
Authors: Keeling Peyton A. , Domes Christopher M.
Published: April 2019

Given its association with trauma and surgery, necrotizing fasciitis is a disease orthopedists are likely to encounter. The laboratory risk indicator for necrotizing fasciitis score is an adjunct diagnostic test designed to help diagnose early necrotizing fasciitis infections, but studies evaluating the scoring system have reported conflicting results. The purpose of this systematic review was to provide clarity on the laboratory risk indicator for necrotizing fasciitis score's capabilities and when it is best used. [
Orthopedics
. 2019; 42(3):e288–e294.]
DialettiBot: a Telegram Bot for Crowdsourcing Recordings of Italian Dialects
Authors: Sangati Federico , Abramova Ekaterina , Monti Johanna
Published: April 2019

In this paper we describe DialettiBot, a Telegram based chatbot for crowdsourcing geo-referenced voice recordings of Italian dialects. The system enables people to listen to previously recorded audio and encourages them to contribute to building a collective linguistic resource by sending voice recordings of their own spoken dialects. The project aims at collecting a large sample of voice recordings in order to promote knowledge of linguistic variation and preserve proverbs or idioms typical for different local dialects. Moreover, the collected data can contribute to several voice-based Natural Language Processing (NLP) applications in helping them understand utterances in non-standard Italian.
Traffic Vertical Signposting: Materials Characterization and Structural Numerical Simulation
Authors: Franco Margarida C. , Fonseca Rita , Gomes Sara , Biscaia Sara , Brites Fernando , Pascoal-Faria Paula , Mateus Artur
Published: April 2019

The existing metallic solutions used for vertical traffic signs are associated with higher costs and environmental issues due to their manufacturing and degradation, when compared with polymeric solutions. Thus, the development of vertical signs considering the injection from polymeric materials in order to overcome problems related with sustainability, maintenance costs, and to achieve higher resistance to corrosion assumes nowadays an important role. The use of eco-friendly and innovative products considering the industrial waste combined with synthetic polymers performing the appropriate mechanical properties, can also be studied to find out new solutions that allow to solve the aforementioned problems. Additionally, these innovative vertical signs can contribute to avoid vandalism events related with theft and graffiti activities. This work presents the prior materials investigation and the structural design of vertical signs that are intended to be produced through polymer injection. Three main steps were considered: i) materials research, ii) materials characterisation through the analysis of polycarbonate resin isolated and in different sets of mixtures with different concentrations through tensile testing and static water contact angle measurements to find the optimal material composition; and iii) structural numerical simulation considering polycarbonate resin and using the current standard EN 12899-1 [1] to compute wind resistance, temporary and permanent deflections. Both experimental and numerical results led to an optimized proposal of the vertical signposting structural design.
Fabrication of Poly(Glycerol Sebacate)-Poly(ε-Caprolactone) Extrusion-Based Scaffolds for Cartilage Regeneration
Authors: Reis Diana , Biscaia Sara , Seabra Inês J. , Veloso Ana , Morouço Pedro
Published: April 2019

Cartilage related diseases are on the top list concerns of the World Health Organization, being the prevention of articular cartilage degeneration a major health matter for which there are few effective solutions. Using an extrusion-based approach and a polyester elastomer it was aimed to produce 3D structures with controlled architecture and with closer mimicry to cartilage native tissue. The obtained constructs demonstrated high reliability, being the addition of poly (glycerol sebacate) a procedure to enhance the properties of the constructs.
Smart Polymers in Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Heggannavar Geetha B. , Achari Divya , Fernandes Cristiana , Mitchell Geoffrey R. , Morouço Pedro , Kariduraganavar Mahadevappa Y.
Published: April 2019

The most important components of living cells such as carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acids are the polymeric molecules. Nature utilizes polymers both as constructive elements and as a part of the complicated cell machinery of living things. The rapid advancement in biomedical research has led to many creative applications for biocompatible polymers. With the development of newer and more potent drugs, a parallel expansion in more sophisticated drug delivery systems becomes mandatory. Smart polymeric drug-delivery systems have the ability to respond to environmental changes and consequently, alter their properties reversibly enabling an efficient and safe drug delivery. This review comprehensively discusses various aspects of these polymers classified in different categories as per the type of stimulus.
The role of beluntas (pluchea indica less.) leaf extract in preventing the occurrence of fibroblasts hyperproliferation: An in vitro preliminary study
Authors: Maharani Sakti Charlia , Julianto Indah , Widhiati Suci
Published: April 2019

Beluntas (Pluchea indica Less.) is a herbal plant which contains variety of benefits. Quercetin, one of flavonoid, is the most bioactive agent in beluntas leaf. Collagen inhibition by quercetin may modulate extracellular matrix deposition and inhibit the formation of hypertrophic scar. This was an in vitro study with senescent fibroblasts to determine the role of beluntas leaf extract in preventing the occurence of fibroblasts hyperproliferations. There were 4 groups were stained by anti-collagen I antibodies and secondary antibody. Flowcytometry analysis was done to measure the fibroblasts density. Anova test was performed with a value of p=0.000 (p<0.05). A post hoc analysis showed significant differences in the average decrease of fibroblasts that absorbs staining anti-collagen I antibody treatment group compared with the control group. There were significant effects of beluntas leaf extract in preventing the occurrence of fibroblasts hyperproliferations. Beluntas leaf extract with a concentration of 80 mol/L had the most significant effect on the fibroblasts density. Thus beluntas leaf extract has the ability in preventing the occurrence of fibroblasts hyperproliferation.
Immunoglobulin AMG Anti Natural Disaccharide Octyl - Leprosy IDRI Diagnostic (NDO-LID) Serologic Test for Leprosy Diagnosis: a Pilot Study
Authors: Rumondor Bayu Bijaksana , Prakoeswa Anisha Callista , Trianita Meva Nareza , Iswahyudi I. , Herwanto Nanny , Listiawan M. Yulianto , Agusni Indropo , Izumi Shinzo , Duthie Malcom , Sigit Prakoeswa Cita Rosita
Published: April 2019

Leprosy remains a public health problem in Indonesia. Diagnostic tools have been developed in order to aid early diagnosis and prompt treatment. Phenolic glycolipid (PGL)-1 has been considered as a good candidate for leprosy diagnosis but has been found to have several limitations. More recently, the conjugation between natural disaccharide octyl (NDO) and leprosy IDRI diagnostic (LID)-1, known as NDO-LID, shows great promise because of its high specificity and sensitivity and its ability to detect leprosy before any clinical signs are present. The test incorporates the detection of IgM antibodies towards NDO and IgG antibodies towards LID-1. This study aimed to show the profile of IgM, IgG, and IgAMG antibody titers against NDO-LID to further discover its diagnostic potential. Sera from eight new leprosy patients from Surabaya, Indonesia were evaluated using ELISA detecting levels of IgG, IgM and IgAMG antibodies against NDO-LID antigen. Skin slit biopsy was also taken for smear and histopathology test. This study shows that the titer levels IgAMG anti NDO-LID were consistent with the results from smear and were consistently higher compared to IgM or IgG titer alone. IgAMG might have the potential to improve the sensitivity of NDO-LID serologic tests but further investigation is needed.
A comparative study of Chicago Sky Blue and ParkerTM ink blue black potassium hidroxide in the diagnosis of dermatophytes
Authors: Sukmawati Netty , Rahmadewi R. , Ervianti Evy
Published: April 2019

Parker ink blue black potassium hydroxide (KOH) is a regular stain for the diagnosis of dermatophytoses. KOH giving less color contrast to the fungal element. The Chicago Sky Blue (CSB) solution is a new contrast have various sensitivity and specificity values. This is analytical observational,cross sectional design study conducted at Dermatomycology Division of Outpatient Clinic, Dr. Soetomo General Hospital. 40 samples from lesion and perilesional infected area, diagnosed dermatophytoses with culture positive was include in this study. All two tests were performed examined by KOH and CSB. The slides were examined after incubation in x 10 and x 40 magnifications by experienced observer. The sensitivity, specificity and McNemar test of CSB and KOH was calculated using culture as the standard test. The sensitivities, specificities, PPV, NPV of the Chicago sky blue and KOH respectively are 95% and 100%, 95,24% and 100%, 100% and 100%, with McNemar test p = 1 and Kappa score is 0,950. The Chicago Sky Blue stain provides a good color contrast and IT could be a alternative staining for the dermatophytoses.
Profile of patients with tinea capitis
Authors: Venitarani Siti Amira , Handayani Samsriyaningsih , Ervianti Evy
Published: April 2019

Tinea capitis is dermatophyte infection of the scalp and hair, affecting mainly prepubertal children. Its incidence has increased over the last decades. If not diagnosed and treated properly, it might reach epidemic soon. This study was descriptive retrospective study which evaluated the incidence and profile of tinea capitis among patients of Micology Division, Outpatient Clinic of Dermatology and Venereology Department, Dr. Soetomo General Hospital Surabaya in 2014 - 2016. There were 42 tinea capitis new cases. It was most prevalent among the age group of 5-14 years old. Male was more common. The most common main complaint was itching. The most frequent predisposing factor was cat exposure. Squama was the most prevalent efflorescence. KOH examination data showed that 57.1% patients were arthrospore positive and 66.7% were positive in Wood lamp examination. Culture was done among 24 patients with positive result of 52.4% and Microsporum canis as the most prevalent dermatophytes. There were 33.3% patients diagnosed with grey patch type. The most common treatment was oral griseofulvin. Follow-ups were done to all patients but only 64.3% who visited back.
Hematological, hepatic, and renal adverse effects of high dose methotrexate injection (50 mg weekly) in severe psoriasis cases
Authors: Yulinvia Adissa Tiara , Putra Prasta Bayu , Trisnowati Niken , Radiono Sunardi
Published: April 2019

Ten to 30 mg weekly methotrexate (MTX) has long been used as a treatment for severe, recalcitrant psoriasis. However, some patients do not improve with those dose and there has been oral methotrexate scarcity period in Indonesia since 2015. This is the first study to evaluate the safety profile of high dose (50 mg weekly) MTX injection in severe psoriasis cases at Sardjito hospital, Yogyakarta. We conducted a retrospective adverse effects evaluation from demographic and laboratory data of 23 severe psoriasis patients who had received six weekly intramuscular injections of MTX. For the results, five (21.70%) patients developed hematological adverse effects, four (17.30%) patients developed hepatic adverse effects, and three (13.05%) patients developed renal adverse effects. Majority of the abnormal laboratory findings in this study were mild and transient. High dose MTX injection appears to be safe for severe psoriasis if proper patient baseline condition assessment was taken before starting therapy, all contraindications have been excluded, and is used under close supervision at high level medical facilities.
Urinary melatonin levels in children with atopic dermatitis and healthy controls
Authors: Adisty Dwi Ratna , Zulkarnain Iskandar , Indramaya Diah Mira
Published: April 2019

Melatonin an important immunomodulatory molecule in allergic diseases. Melatonin also plays a role in several body systems including to regulate circadian rhythms because of its role to cause drowsiness. Research shows in the case of atopic dermatitis (AD) circadian production of melatonin is reduced compared to healthy controls. This study aimed to investigate the differences of urinary melatonin levels between children with AD and healthy controls, and its relationship with disease severity. A cross sectional study was conducted in pediatric dermatology division of our outpatient clinic. Severity of AD was determined by using the instruments Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD). Urinary melatonin levels were measured by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The urinary melatonin levels in AD group were not significantly lower than in healthy controls (P =0.98 P<0.05) but the means show lower levels of urinary melatonin levels in AD group (486.73 ± 292.13 pg/ml , 611.51 ± 280.45 pg/ml, respectively). There were no significant association between urinary melatonin levels and disease severity (P > 0.05) but there’s a tendency of decreased urinary melatonin with increased the severity of AD.
Decompression and gutter splint techniques to prevent recurrence in ingrowing toenails
Authors: Sutedja Eva Krishna , Feriza Vina , Rahardjo Rachel Marsella , Fatmasari Dina , Hindritiani Reti , Gunawan Hendra , Suwarsa Oki
Published: April 2019

Ingrowing toenails (IT) is puncture of periungual skin by its surrounding nail plate. IT most frequently occurs in males aged 10-30 years. Pathogenesis of IT is multifactorial. Patients most commonly present with toe pain and may also complain erythema, swelling, or discharge from the nail edge. The clinical presentation of IT has been divided into three stages; stage I or inflammatory stages, stage II or abcess formation, and stage III or granulation tissue formation. IT is a nail disease with high reccurences that commonly seen in daily practice. Several treatment approaches ranging from conservative therapy (gutter splint) to surgical treatment (decompression technique). We report a case of IT in a 13-year-old boy that treated with decompression and gutter splint technique. The combination of this technique provides good results for IT and there was no recurrences after two months of observation.
Aspergillus fumigatus as an agent of cutaneous aspergillosis in immunocompetent patient: A rare case
Authors: Setyaningrum Trisniartami , Pratiwi Karina Dyahtantri
Published: April 2019

Cutaneous aspergillosis occurs relatively less frequent and therefore remains poorly characterized. Previous reports have described cutaneous aspergillosis as primary or secondary infection. Primary cutaneous aspergillosis usually involves sites of skin injury, at or near intravenous access catheter sites, at sites of traumatic inoculation, and at sites associated with occlusive dressings, burns, or surgery. Primary cutaneous aspergillosis almost always seen in immunocompromised patients and the skin involvement occurs due to hematogenous dissemination from a primary focus or contiguous spread from underlying infected tissues. This is a rare case of an-56-years-old-immunocompetence man with chief complaint of wound and swelling at left leg since 1 year ago that worsen in last 2 months. He got a history of scalded by hot water at his left leg 1 year ago and became swollen with multiple wound on its surface. Examination on regio pedis sinistra there is tumor with verrucous surface 10 cm in diameter, hard with multiple uneven edge ulcer 5 cm in diameter and hyperpigmentation macule unsharply marginated arround. Potassium hydroxide examination showed conidiophores dichotomously branching and septated hyphae that suitable with Aspergillosis sp. From cultures there is velvety-dark-green growth. The microscope findings from the culture specimen showed conidophore, metula, vesicle, phialde, and chains of pigmented conidia that suitable with Aspergillus fumigatus. Blood culture examination showed no growth of fungi. HIV rapid test negative results obtained. Patients treated with Itraconazole 2 x 200 mg for 12 weeks and obtained satisfactory result.
Successful treatment of severe psoriasis vulgaris in child with methotrexate injection
Authors: Anindhita Agatha , Sawitri S.
Published: April 2019

Pediatric psoriasis could begin in childhood in almost one-third of the cases. There are currently no international standardized guidelines for medical treatment of pediatric psoriasis. Case: A 3-years-old girl with a 1-year history of psoriasis came to outpatient clinic. She already went to dermatologist but only reached mild improvement. The lesion became worse within 2 months. PASI score was 32. The patient was given methotrexate injection 0,5 mg/BW/week for about 3 months. PASI score was decrease and became 15 after 3 months of the therapy with no serious side effect. Discussion: The treatment approach is based primarily on guidelines for adult psoriasis, a few case series, expert opinions, or experience with systemic drugs acquired in other pediatric disorders. Systemic treatment was given to this patient because the child was categorized as severe psoriasis. Conclusion: Methotrexate treatment in this patient was showed a good progression with no serious side effect.
Isolation of potential fluorescent pseudomonads from Kuini (Mangifera odorata) planted soil and their potential as biofertilizer
Authors: Jeffrey Lim Seng Heng , Mohd Zainual Nur Samahah
Published: April 2019

Pseudomonas sp. are known to be good Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR). In this study, Pseudomonas sp. were isolated from soil planted with kuini (Mangifera odorata) using soil dilution method and spread onto King’s B media. Five isolates of Pseudomonas sp. were observed to give promising results in the phytohormone and antimicrobial test conducted. These isolates are Pseudomonas sp. isolate K24pf, K29pf, K32pf, K33pf and K37pf. From the 5 potential isolates, Pseudomonas sp. isolate K29pf was chosen because it showed potential activity in producing marked amounts of Indole-3-Acetic Acid and gibberellic acid. Pseudomonas sp. isolate K29pf also produced antimicrobial activities towards Ralstonia solanacearum, Erwinia caratovora, Erwinia mallotivora and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Seed germination test showed that Pseudomonas sp. isolate K29pf was able to promote approximately 90% growth of Brassica chinensis seeds. Pot trial conducted showed that Treatment 3 (+OF+PGPR) was able to increase Brassica chinensis root by 36.5% and 28.4% of its biomass compared to treatment using Treatment 1 (+OF).
The influence of collaboration-oriented organisational capabilities on supply chain competence among small and medium enterprises
Authors: Pooe David , Munyanyi Watson
Published: April 2019

Orientation: In the contemporary business environment, there is need for firms to strategically interact with partners beyond boundaries, and by collaborating these firms can access resource and technologies beyond their limits.Research purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of collaboration-oriented organisational capabilities (COOC) on supply chain competence among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Zimbabwe.Motivation for the study: Small and medium enterprises in Zimbabwe have experienced limited growth, primarily because of their failure to nurture and steer their competencies. The literature suggests that there is value in synchronised cooperative and competitive interactions between firms as such interactions incentivise the pursuit of shared interests.Research design, approach and method: Through a cross-sectional survey, data were collected from 388 SMEs in Zimbabwe, and structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data.Main findings: The study specifically found that there is a positive and significant relationship between collaboration-oriented capabilities and supply chain competence.Practical/managerial implications: The results of this study demonstrate the critical role of organisational capabilities in achieving supply chain competence. The study proves that collaborative capabilities are central to the supply chain success of SMEs, with the possibility of influencing also the firm’s sustainable competitive advantage in line with the dynamic capabilities theory.Contribution/value-add: This study sheds light on the possibility of enhancing the overall supply chain competence of SMEs by establishing and empirically testing the relationships between COOC and supply chain competence.
A Nonlinear Klein–Gordon– Maxwell System in $\mathbb{R}^{2}$ Involving Singular and Vanishing Potentials
Authors: Albuquerque Francisco S.B. , Li Lin
Published: April 2019

In this paper, a nonlinear Klein–Gordon–Maxwell system in

\mathbb{R}^{2}

and involving singular and vanishing potentials is considered. Under some mild assumptions on the potentials and nonlinearity, using variational methods and a Trudinger–Moser-type inequality, we establish sufficient conditions for the existence of solution.
Impacts of Hurricanes Irma and Maria on Aedes aegypti Populations, Aquatic Habitats, and Mosquito Infections with Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika Viruses in Puerto Rico
Authors: Barrera Roberto , Felix Gilberto , Acevedo Veronica , Amador Manuel , Rodriguez Damaris , Rivera Luis , Gonzalez Orlando , Nazario Nicole , Ortiz Marianyoly , Muñoz-Jordan Jorge L. , Waterman Stephen H. , Hemme Ryan R.
Published: April 2019

Puerto Rico was severely impacted by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. The island has been endemic for dengue viruses (DENV) and recently suffered epidemics of chikungunya (CHIKV 2014) and Zika (ZIKV 2016) viruses. Although severe storms tend to increase the number of vector and nuisance mosquitoes, we do not know how they influence Aedes aegypti populations and arboviral transmission. We compared the abundance of female Ae. aegypti in autocidal gravid ovitraps (AGO traps), container habitats, and presence of RNA of DENV, CHIKV, and ZIKV in this vector before and after the hurricanes in Caguas city and in four communities in southern Puerto Rico. Two of these communities were under vector control using mass AGO trapping and the other two nearby communities were not. We also investigated mosquito species composition and relative abundance (females/trap) using Biogents traps (BG-2 traps) in 59 sites in metropolitan San Juan city after the hurricanes. Mosquitoes sharply increased 5 weeks after Hurricane Maria. Ensuing abundance of Ae. aegypti was higher in Caguas and in one of the southern communities without vector control. Aedes aegypti did not significantly change in the two areas with vector control. The most abundant mosquitoes among the 26 species identified in San Juan were Culex (Melanoconion) spp., Culex quinquefasciatus, Culex nigripalpus, and Ae. aegypti. No arboviruses were detected in Ae. aegypti following the hurricanes, in contrast with observations from the previous year, so that the potential for Aedes-borne arboviral outbreaks following the storms in 2017 was low.
BVOC–aerosol–climate feedbacks investigated using NorESM
Authors: Sporre Moa K. , Blichner Sara M. , Karset Inger H. H. , Makkonen Risto , Berntsen Terje K.
Published: April 2019

Abstract. Both higher temperatures and increased CO2 concentrations are
(separately) expected to increase the emissions of biogenic volatile organic
compounds (BVOCs). This has been proposed to initiate negative climate
feedback mechanisms through increased formation of secondary organic aerosol
(SOA). More SOA can make the clouds more reflective, which can provide a
cooling. Furthermore, the increase in SOA formation has also been proposed to
lead to increased aerosol scattering, resulting in an increase in diffuse
radiation. This could boost gross primary production (GPP) and further
increase BVOC emissions. In this study, we have used the Norwegian Earth
System Model (NorESM) to investigate both these feedback mechanisms. Three
sets of experiments were set up to quantify the feedback with respect to (1) doubling
the CO2, (2) increasing temperatures corresponding to a doubling of
CO2 and (3) the combined effect of both doubling CO2 and a
warmer climate. For each of these experiments, we ran two simulations, with
identical setups, except for the BVOC emissions. One simulation was run with
interactive BVOC emissions, allowing the BVOC emissions to respond to changes
in CO2 and/or climate. In the other simulation, the BVOC emissions
were fixed at present-day conditions, essentially turning the feedback off.
The comparison of these two simulations enables us to investigate each step
along the feedback as well as estimate their overall relevance for the future
climate. We find that the BVOC feedback can have a significant impact on the climate.
The annual global BVOC emissions are up to 63 % higher when the feedback
is turned on compared to when the feedback is turned off, with the largest
response when both CO2 and climate are changed. The higher BVOC
levels lead to the formation of more SOA mass (max 53 %) and result in
more particles through increased new particle formation as well as larger
particles through increased condensation. The corresponding changes in the
cloud properties lead to a −0.43 W m−2 stronger net cloud forcing.
This effect becomes about 50 % stronger when the model is run with
reduced anthropogenic aerosol emissions, indicating that the feedback will
become even more important as we decrease aerosol and precursor emissions. We
do not find a boost in GPP due to increased aerosol scattering on a global
scale. Instead, the fate of the GPP seems to be controlled by the BVOC effects
on the clouds. However, the higher aerosol scattering associated with the
higher BVOC emissions is found to also contribute with a potentially
important enhanced negative direct forcing (−0.06 W m−2). The global
total aerosol forcing associated with the feedback is −0.49 W m−2,
indicating that it has the potential to offset about 13 % of the forcing
associated with a doubling of CO2.
Water-mediated changes in plant–plant and biological soil crust–plant interactions in a temperate forest ecosystem
Authors: Pissolito Clara , Garibotti Irene A. , Varela Santiago A. , Arana Verónica , Gonzalez-Polo Marina , Marchelli Paula , Bruzzone Octavio
Published: April 2019

Abstract. In the quest to understand how biotic interactions respond to climate change, one area that remains poorly explored is how interactions involving organisms other than vascular plants will respond. However the interactions between plants and biological soil crusts (BSCs) are relevant in many ecosystems and they will likely respond uniquely to climate change. Simultaneous considerations of both plant–plant and plant–BSC interactions may substantially improve our understanding of this topic. The aim of this study is to assess whether water availability differentially affects the biotic effects of BSCs and pioneer shrubs on the early life-history stage of tree seedling growth. We conducted a greenhouse factorial experiment with soil surface cover (bare soil, soil covered by a creeping shrub and BSC covered soil) and water regime (control and drought) as factors. We monitored Nothofagus pumilio (a native tree species of ecological and economic relevance) seedling water status and growth as well as changes in soil water content and soil properties. The shrub cover had a positive effect on soil water conservation and on the water balance of seedlings under water stress. However, its effect was negative for seedling growth under both water conditions. The BSC also contributed to soil water conservation and apparently added nutrients to the soil. The net effect of the BSC on seedling growth was negative under full-watering conditions but positive under water stress conditions. This result highlights how the studied biotic interactions, and especially interactions involving BSCs, depend on changes in water availability.
Blockchain Design for an Embedded System
Authors: Falcone Sara , Zhang John , Cameron Agnes , Abdel-Rahman Amira
Published: April 2019

This paper proposes a blockchain-based mapping protocol for distributed robotic systems running on embedded hardware. This protocol was developed for a robotic system designed to locomote on lattice structures for space applications. A consensus mechanism, Proof of Validity, is introduced to allow the effort of mining blocks to correlate with the desired tasks the robotic system was designed for. These robots communicate using peer-to-peer LoRa radio. Options, trade-offs and considerations for implementing blockchain technology on an embedded system with wireless radio communication are explored and discussed.
SwarmDAG: A Partition Tolerant Distributed Ledger Protocol for Swarm Robotics
Authors: Tran Jason A , Ramachandran Gowri Sankar , Shah Palash M , Danilov Claudiu B. , Santiago Rodolfo A. , Krishnamachari Bhaskar
Published: April 2019

Blockchain technology has the potential to disrupt applications beyond cryptocurrencies. This work applies the concepts of blockchain technology to swarm robotics applications. Swarm robots typically operate in a distributed fashion, wherein the collaboration and coordination between the robots are essential to accomplishing the application goals. However, robot swarms may experience network partitions either due to navigational and communication challenges or in order to perform certain tasks efficiently. We propose a novel protocol, SwarmDAG, that enables the maintenance of a distributed ledger based on the concept of extended virtual synchrony while managing and tolerating network partitions.
Início da carreira do professor de educação física: uma revisão sistemática
Authors: Arouca Adair João Rachadel , Pereira Marcos Paulo Vaz de Campos , Garcia Marilia Pinto , Rosa Alzira Isabel da , Farias Gelcemar Oliveira
Published: April 2019

Esta revisão sistemática teve como objetivo analisar a produção científica na área da Educação Física sobre professores iniciantes na carreira docente. As bases de dados selecionadas foram LILACS, SCIELO, EBSCO, SCOPUS, WEB OF KNOWLEDGE e BANCO DE TESES. Os resultados indicaram que os estudos encontrados são prioritariamente a partir de 2010, concentrados na região sul do Brasil, tendo como foco a análise da prática pedagógica, o fazer cotidiano, bem como a qualidade de vida dos professores. Os estudos são em sua maioria qualitativos, utilizando-se de questionário e entrevistas para coleta de dados. Conclui-se, que existe a necessidade de a comunidade científica direcionar a suas investigações para este tema, associando a diferentes realidades e variáveis que possam existir.
Fatores associados à desistência de idosas em um programa de atividade física: um estudo retrospectivo
Authors: Menezes Enaiane Cristina , Streit Inês Amanda , Capeletto Eduardo , Ribovski Marina , Fortunato Artur Rodrigues , Mazo Giovana Zarpellon
Published: April 2019

O objetivo foi verificar os fatores associados à desistência de idosas de um programa de atividades físicas. A amostra foi composta por 267 idosas participantes e desistentes de um programa de atividade física de extensão universitária. Para a coleta de dados foi utilizada a ficha com dados do programa. As idosas desistentes do programa (n=108) apresentaram média de idade de 69,4 (dp=5,99) anos. Na análise bruta, as variáveis, estado civil e condições de saúde influenciaram na prática de atividade física. A doença cardíaca, depressão, estado civil e escolaridade foram associadas ao desfecho (desistência). Conclui-se que condições sociodemográficas, doença cardíaca e depressão são fatores associados à desistência do programa de atividade física.
Dançar e brincar: uma experiencia de balé com crianças pequenas
Authors: Silva Taynara Ferreira , Almeida Fernanda De Souza , Souza Nilva Pessoa
Published: April 2019

A presente pesquisa questionou uma possibilidade de abordar o balé com crianças entre 4 e 5 anos de idade, matriculadas em uma academia na cidade de Inhumas (GO), por meio do lúdico. A partir da pesquisa-ação com registro em diário de campo, estudou-se autores que discorrem sobre o tema (HUIZINGA, 2000, KISHIMOTO, 2007, ALMEIDA, 2016), seguido da elaboração de um curso com a oferta de 15 intervenções em dança, para uma turma de baby class com 12 crianças. As vivências foram permeadas de jogos, brinquedos cantados, brincadeiras e faz de conta, como um caminho metodológico de oferecer a dança com a pequenada. Notou-se que as crianças aprenderam os passos do balé brincando e se divertindo, destacando o lúdico como uma estratégia interessante para as vivências em balé.
O esporte e o ídolo das origens: desvelando a constituição do futsal
Authors: Medeiros Daniele Cristina Carqueijeiro de
Published: April 2019

Diversas fontes que trabalham com a história do futsal fornecem informações desencontradas e de pouca confiabilidade para os estudiosos da área. Esse trabalho se vale dessas informações e procura, por meio de um debate historiográfico, problematizar a “origem” e a constituição da prática ao longo do tempo. O artigo objetiva, em sua primeira parte, discutir o ídolo das origens no futsal, e problematizar o surgimento deste esporte. Na segunda parte, o artigo analisa as transformações na prática desse esporte por meio de mudanças propostas pelas confederações.
Bank Failure: A New Approach to Prediction and Supervision
Authors: Cheong Calvin W. H. , Ramasamy Sockalingam
Published: April 2019

Bank failures are costly to customers and the wider market. Prevention is always better than cure but in light of recent economic downturns, it has become increasingly difficult for regulators to allocate more resources towards in-depth monitoring of banking practices. In this paper, we construct a tool that is able to predict bank failures ahead of time with reasonable accuracy. Through a logistic regression on a matched sample of 536 failed and non-failed US banks, we determine the financial indicators that most accurately predicts bank failure. From the regression, we construct a Bank Health Index that assesses a bank’s propensity to failure. In-sample and out-of-sample tests show that our model is about 90% accurate two years prior to failure, and 95% accurate the year before failure. The accuracy and efficiency of the model and index provides a more efficient and effective tool for assessing a bank’s propensity to failure besides requiring far less resources. With these methods, regulators will be able to take preventive measures at least one year before failure, saving the economy millions if not billions in the process.
Assessment of the Hygienic Quality of Meals Served in Hospital: Case of the Main Hospital of Dakar (Senegal)
Authors: Doutoum Abdelsalam Adoum , Doungous Djamalladine Mahamat , Tidjani Abdelsalam , Abba Hamadou , Jupiter Balde , Faye Coumba , Balde Mamadou , Moukhtar Roumane , Somda Marius K. , Seydi Malang , Toguebaye Bhen Sikina , Traore Alfred S.
Published: April 2019

Hospitals have an optimal growth conditions for some germs, because of the high relative humidity and relatively high temperature. These germs, which are found in foods served in hospitals, could cause food poisoning in hospitalized patients. To help improve the hygienic quality of meals and to prevent risks related to social catering, we have chosen to conduct a study on the microbiological quality of meals served at the Main Hospital of Dakar. A total of 100 samples of hot meals were processed in the food microbiology laboratory of the Inter-State School of Veterinary Sciences and Medicine (EISMV) in Dakar. The following results were obtained: 56% of unsatisfactory samples, 40% are acceptable, 4% unsatisfactory, according to the microbiological criteria of the French Republic, which must satisfy certain animal or animal products. For the various flora sought, the percentages of samples exceeding the acceptability threshold are as follows: 10% for the total flora, 35% for the faecal coliforms, 1% for the sulfito-reducting anaerobes. Meals are fairly contaminated by fecal coliforms. It is therefore clear that the rate of bacterial contamination of meals is quite high, especially by fecal coliforms.
Calderón reloaded: El gran mercado del mundo para niños
Authors: Fernández María Ángeles
Published: April 2019

Si bien son abundantes las versiones de obras de Shakespeare dirigidas al público infantil, es notoria la escasez de adaptaciones y representaciones de los clásicos aúreos para el público infantil y familiar. Recientemente, la compañía de teatro Pie Izquierdo ha intentado acercar la tradición dramática aurisecular al público escolar con adaptaciones de La dama boba y del auto sacramental El gran mercado del mundo (esta última en coproducción con el Festival Olmedo Clásico). El presente artículo examinará la construcción escenográfica y la manipulación textual de El gran mercado del mundo para acercar el auto calderoniano a la sensibilidad infantil.
Radiomic assessment of the progression of acoustic neuroma after gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery
Authors: Narayanasamy Ganesh , Zhang Geoffrey , Siegel Eric , Campbell Graham , Moros Eduardo G. , Galhardo Edvaldo P. , Morrill Steven , Day John , Penagaricano Jose
Published: April 2019

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine whether radiomic features measured at baseline in Magnetic Resonance images (MRI) of acoustic neuromas (AN) can predict Gamma Knife (GK) treatment outcome.Methods: The study was conducted on pre- and post-GK MRI-T2 scans of 32 patients with AN who underwent stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for 12 Gy dose. Radiomic features extracted include Intensity, Fractals, Laplacian of Gaussian and textural Co-Occurrence, Run-length (RL), Size Zone, and Neighborhood Gray-Tone Difference matrices (NGTDM) features. Subjects were classified as treatment failures (TF) if tumor volume increased > 10%. Pre- and post-SRS audiology reports were utilized in hearing evaluation.Results: Fifteen subjects (47%) qualified as TFs. In univariate receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, two radiomicfeatures, complexity in NGTDM and run percentage in RL, displayed areas under curves of > 0.65.Conclusion: This initial radiomic study establishes features that illustrates the prognostic ability of the SRS treatment in acousticneuroma. Hearing preservation was achieved in a majority of acoustic neuroma patients treated in Gamma Knife.
The Reasons of Job Alienation among the Faculty Members of Hebron & Al-Quds Universities
Authors: Abu Saa Ja'far Wasfi , Abu Samra Mahmoud Ahmad
Published: April 2019

The present study aimes to identify the reasons behind experiencing job alienation by the faculty members at Hebron& Al-Quds universities. It was conducted during the second semester of the academic year (2017/2018). The study’spopulation involves all the faculty members who work at Hebron & Al-Quds universities (i.e. 446 faculty members).The study’s sample consists of (200) faculty members. Those members were selected through using the randomstratified sampling method. The study’s instrument was developed by the researchers, and It is represented in aquestionnaire. The questionnaire seeks to identify the reasons behind experiencing job alienation by the facultymembers at Hebron & Al-Quds universities. It consists of (20) statements. These statements address two types ofreasons; a)-reasons that are related to the university management & b)- reasons that are related to the workcolleagues. The researchers checked the validity of questionnaire, and they measured the reliability of thequestionnaire through using the relevant statistical methods. It was found that the statements that concern theexamined reasons show moderate means. In addition, it was found that there is not any statistically significantdifference between the respondents’ attitudes which can be attributed to the university.
Influence of NAFDAC Mobile Drugs Authentication Service on the Use of Fake Drugs Among Consumers in Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Wogu Joseph Oluchukwu , Omaka-Amari Lois Nnenna , Ugwu Uchenna Cosmas , Ugwuoke Joel Chinedum , Agu Michael Anene
Published: April 2019

OBJECTIVE: This paper investigates the influence of Mobile Authentication Service (MAS) in eliminating the consumption of fake/counterfeit drugs in South-east Nigeria.

METHODS: 1000 respondents were randomly selected in the five states of the South-east as study sample, while a structured questionnaire was used for collecting data. SPSS version 20.0 was used to analyse the data.

RESULTS: Analysis results reveal that there is a low level of MAS scheme awareness while few persons operate the MAS scheme. It further reveals that MAS scheme made no impact on the distribution and consumption of fake/counterfeit drugs. It also reveals people’s inability to procure appropriate phone technology, poor network services, and low level of MAS scheme media awareness campaign was responsible for MAS scheme ineffectiveness.

CONCLUSION: NAFDAC MAS scheme has not reduced or eliminated the production, distribution and consumption of fake/counterfeit drugs in the South-east Nigeria. This is because of inappropriate media awareness campaign, people’s inability to procure the appropriate phone technology and access good network services required to operate the MAS scheme. This paper recommends appropriate massive media awareness campaign on the MAS Scheme, modernisation of MAS scheme software to accommodate lower level of phone technology, and improved network access as panacea for MAS scheme effectiveness.
Climate Change and Cereal Production Evolution Trend in the Sahel: Case Study in Mali from 1951 to 2010
Authors: Kouressy M. , Sultan B. , Vaksmann M. , Belières J. F. , Claessens L. , Dingkuhn M. , Témé N.
Published: April 2019

Mali is a Sahelian country with a large climatic contrast from North to South. The current climatic and production evolutionary study is focused on the six major agro-climatic cereal production zones ranging from Kayes (400 mm) to Sikasso (>1000 mm) of rainfalls. Climatic data are rainfall records, daily maximum and minimum temperatures from 60 years of the six major synoptic weather observation stations. Data were analyzed on comparing average decades of the two normal periods of 30 years (1951-1980) and (1981-2010). Annual agronomic production data for millet, sorghum, maize and rice are derived from Mali's agricultural statistics base from 1984 to 2013. Main climatic results analyses indicate that climate change resulted in a decrease of 100 mm isohyets between the 2 periods of 30 years. The structure of the rainy season was little changed between these two periods since the average start of the season was delayed by 6 days and the average end date of the season became earlier by 4 days. Maximum temperatures increased significantly from + 0.44°C to + 1.53°C and minimum temperatures significantly increased from + 1.05°C to + 1.93°C in varying way depending on the sites. Statistics of major agronomic food crop production in Mali from 1984 to 2013 indicate an average increase of 985 to 4492 thousand tones, or 22% increase per year. There is a positive upward in saw tooth trend in Malian production from 1984 to 2013. This positive trend is the result of a combination of agricultural extension, agronomic research application and the management of small farmer holder in the Sahel. This evolution needs better study for drawing necessary right conclusions.