bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slowing of Alpha Waves on EEG, an Early Marker of Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Patel Nikhilkumar Pradipkumar , Chafekar Neelima Deodatta , Sonwane Pratibha Balasaheb
Published: May 2019

Introduction: Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy (MHE) is the mildest form of spectrum of Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE) which remains undiagnosed due to lack of awareness. MHE has a negative effect on patient's daily functioning due to cognitive impairment. Electro-Encephalo-Gram (EEG) and Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) are useful in early diagnosis and follow up of MHE. Aim: To study evidence of MHE in patients with liver cirrhosis by psychometric tests and also its correlation with EEG changes. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out as a prospective case control study of 70 patients diagnosed with Cirrhosis of liver, over a period of two years in accordance with European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) and Asociacion Latinoamericana parael Estudio del Higado (ALEH) criteria with MMSE score >24 and were diagnosed as Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy if 2 out of 3 psychometric tests were abnormal EEG was performed in them and was compared with 70 healthy controls. Results: Study showed male predominance (90%) with mean age of 45.49 ± 11.76. Alcohol related cirrhosis (70%) was found to be more common than HBV (8.57%) and HCV (2.86%) infection related cirrhosis. Pedal edema, icterus, pallor and ascites were the most common presenting manifestations. Most cirrhotic cases (80%) were under Child Pugh Class-A. On USG of abdomen all cases had Coarse echotexture and nodular surface of liver among them 11 cases had Hepatomegaly, 10 cases had splenomegaly, 42 cases had ascites and 24 cases had increased portal venous diameter of mean size 14.02 ± 0.48 mm. MMSE score of all selected cirrhotic cases was >24. Psychometric Tests i.e. Number Connection Test-A, Number Connection Test-B and Line tracing test were performed in all selected cirrhotic cases and they were not able to perform it within designated time. All cases were subjected to EEG and compared with equal number of comparable healthy controls, which shows change in frequency and amplitude of Alpha wave which was highly significant whereas no significant changes of frequency and amplitude of Beta, Theta and Delta waves between cases and controls. Conclusion: There is significant changes in alpha wave frequency and amplitude in patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy.
Comparison of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy v/s Conventional Dressing on Chronic Ulcers at Tertiary Health Centre
Authors: Mogal Kailash , Sonwane Datta
Published: May 2019

Introduction: Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) provides a novel option for wound treatment. Negative pressure wound therapy is a wound treatment method that subjects the wound bed to negative pressure by means of a closed system. Negative pressure wound therapy gives a moist wound healing environment that is essential for wound healing. Materials and Methods: The study was held in the surgery department of a tertiary care centre with total 50 numbers of patients of age 18 years and above. Patients were examined clinically, and necessary investigations done. Results: The difference in the rate of wound contraction was apparent since 5th day and by the time of discharge/intervention, means percentage of wound contraction was 90.9% in Negative pressure wound therapy as compared to 74.54% in conventional group patients. Mean hospital stay was significantly more in similar cases managed by conventional dressing as compared to Negative pressure wound therapy (17.23 vs 11.13 days). Conclusion: Present study showed that Negative pressure wound treatment appears to be a better option to conventional chronic wound dressings with early development of granulation tissue, rapid wound contraction and reduced hospital stay.
Study of Maternal and Perinatal Outcome in Patients in High Dependency Unit (HDU) in a Tertiary Care Centre
Authors: Joshi Padmaja Satyen , Kathaley Manasi Harish , Dashrathi Rucha Umesh , Prasade Shreeda Uday
Published: May 2019

Background: It was a retrospective observational study to know demographic factors, indication of High Dependency Unit (HDU) admission, course of stay, maternal and perinatal outcome in patients admitted in HDU in a tertiary care centre. Introduction: Pregnancy and delivery are physiological events. But, they have the potential for life threatening complications. Maternal mortality is an important indicator that reflects quality and adequacy of health care services. Timely intervention and early treatment in patients with high risk pregnancy may reduce further complications i.e. Need of intensive monitoring, morbidity and mortality. Methodology: Total 213 cases with high risk pregnancy admitted in HDU, were included in present study after satisfying inclusion and exclusion criteria. We studied demographic factors, indication of HDU admission and course of stay as well as maternal and perinatal outcome. Results: Majority of the patients i.e. 99 patients (46.48%) were in the age group of 21-25 years. 85 patients i.e. 39.91% were Primigravida while 74 patients i.e. 34.74% were second gravida. Maximum numbers of patients i.e. 173 patients (81.22%) were unregistered. A majority of patients i.e. 136 patients (63.85%) admitted in the HDU had gestational age <37 weeks while 68 patients i.e. 31.93% had gestational age between 37 to 40 weeks. Out of 213 patients, 146 patients i.e. 68.54% had obstetric complications while 67 patients i.e. 31.46% had medical complications. Pre-eclampsia, seen in 74 patients i.e. 34.74%, was the commonest obstetric indication for admission to HDU. Anemia seen in 22 patients i.e. 10.32% was the most common medical indication for HDU admission. Out of 213 patients, 101 patients i.e. 47.42% delivered vaginally, 84 patients i.e. 39.44% underwent caesarean section, 11 patients i.e. 5.16% had abortion whereas 11 patients i.e. 5.16% had ectopic pregnancy. Out of 185 deliveries 131 neonates were perfectly healthy, 37 had still births, 17 needed NICU admission and 9 had Neonatal deaths. Mean HDU stay was 3.31 days. 14 patients out of 213 required ICU care for further management. Mean ICU stay in medical complication group was 0.36 and that for obstetric complication group was 0.19. Out of 213 patients, maternal mortality occurred in 3 patients. Conclusion: Lack of health awareness and delayed referral to tertiary care centre seem to be a major reason for HDU and ICU admission and further maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Timely antenatal registration, antenatal follow ups, prophylactic intervention and anticipation of intensive care can change the scenario hence leading to a decreased maternal morbidity and mortality.
Study of Acceptance Rate, Compliance and Complication of H1N1 Seasonal Vaccine among Health Care Workers
Authors: Dugad Sushama , Bhandare Pankaj , Sundrani Ramesh , Kulkarni Gauri , Patil Nilesh
Published: May 2019

Background: Our knowledge on reasons of non-acceptance and complication to H1N1 Vaccination by health care workers is limited. A better understanding of factors having significance in vaccine acceptance is crucial. With this background in mind present study was conducted at tertiary care centre to determine the Acceptance, Compliance, and Complication of anti-H1N1 seasonal vaccine among Health Care Workers (HWCs). Materials and Methods: Prospective Observational study was conducted to observe the rate of acceptance, compliance and complications of anti H1N1 seasonal vaccine among 100 health care workers in the period of December 2015 to December 2017 in Tertiary Health Care Centre. All participants were counselled 3 times at interval 6 months (0, 6, and 12 months) regarding H1N1 vaccine. Result: Vaccine acceptance rate among health care workers was only 03% before counseling. The main cause for not acceptance of vaccination was fear of adverse effects reported by 27% health care workers followed by cost of vaccine (12%) and work pressure (10%) or nonavailability of time. Conclusion: As counseling sessions progressed health care workers also started accepting vaccination. After completion of third counseling session rate of vaccine acceptance increased from 3% to 71% and also negative and doubtful conception of health care workers were and changed completely. After counseling their knowledge regarding influenza vaccine was increased. Even though some post vaccination complications had been reported by recipient; those symptoms lasted for short duration of time and there was no serious adverse effect of H1N1 vaccine.
Tools of the Mind: The Vygotskian-Based Early Childhood Program
Authors: Bodrova Elena , Leong Deborah J.
Published: May 2019

The article describes Tools of the Mind—an instructional program developed 25 years ago and now implemented in a variety of early childhood settings across the United States and in Canada. Based on the principles of cultural-historical psychology, this program addresses developmental and learning needs of young children by offering a comprehensive curriculum and by delivering professional development for early childhood educators. The article provides examples of how Vygotskian and post-Vygotskian ideas get embodied in Tools of the Mind instructional strategies with a special emphasis on make-believe play as a leading activity for preschool- and kindergarten-aged children. The authors discuss the results of several evaluation studies conducted on Tools and how these results helped to shape the current state of the program.
Ligand-Protein Interactions: A Hybrid ab initio/Molecular Mechanics Computational Study
Authors: Perez Yornei R. , Alvarez Dinais , Combariza Aldo
Published: May 2019

Cyclooxygenases (COX), or prostaglandin endoperoxide synthases (PTGS), are key enzimes in the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are chemical species critical in mediating inflammatory processes. There are two highly homologous COX isoforms: COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is involved in the production of prostaglandins, chemical compuounds that take part in physiological processes such as: protection of the gastric epithelium, maintenance of renal flow, platelet aggregation, neutrophil migration and, also, are expressed in the vascular endothelium. Meanwhile, COX-2 is induced by proinflammatory stimuli. It is very frequent the use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to counteract the symptoms of inflammatory processes. These drugs, in addition to its benefits, can cause side effects on people’s health, such as cardiovascular and respiratory problems, among others. In the past years, it has been recognized the potential of plants secondary metabolites as pharmacological agents, prompting the need for investigations that shed light into its mechanism of action. In this work we have applied computational techniques, based on quantum chemistry and mechanical statistics, to study the protein-ligand interaction involving COX’s and secondary metabolites from natural sources. Our aim is to determine the structure activity interplay in processes involving the participation of secondary plant metabolites such as luteolin, galangin, kaempferol, apigenin, morine and quercetin on the inactivation of COX’s. From molecular docking analysis, we have extracted the energetics of the COX-(1,2)/metabolite coupling. By defining energy based factors, we have determined a procedure that predicts the chemical species with highest stability and selectivity towards inactivation of COX-2 over COX-1. The results are discussed with regard to conformational features of the selected ligands and its intermolecular strong/weak interactions inside the active-sites of the COX’s hosts.
Effects of a Time Varying Moment on a Large Tethered Satellite in Circular or Elliptical Orbit
Authors: Iyer Narayan
Published: May 2019

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of a varying moment on the rotation angle of a large tethered satellite that is orbiting a planet. Two different types of orbits were investigated: a simple circular orbit and an elliptical orbit. Cases with zero and non-zero initial angular rotation velocity were investigated as well. This investigation will assist satellite docking missions. The large rigid tethered satellite is a futuristic concept, and this investigation is meant to assist possible docking missions to the satellite. To simplify the problem, the rotation is constrained to the orbital plane.
Fuzzy Based Analysis for Behavioral Factors (Altruism, Courtesy, Sportsmanship, Civic Virtue, and Conscientiousness) to Investigate Impact of Gender on Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB)
Authors: Ajlouni Wajdee , Kaur Gurvinder , Alomari Saleh
Published: May 2019

This paper aims to investigate impact of employees’ gender on OCB as per the employees’ perception in Jordanian governmental hospitals. A convenient sample of 126 employees working in the three main governmental hospitals in north of Jordan has been taken for the purpose of this study. The collected data includes linguistic terms that suffer from uncertainty which, in turn, cannot be dealt with traditional numerical values. The result prove that gender impact on OCB has shown statistically significant differences at (α=0.05) as far as altruism, courtesy, and civic virtue are concerned; and this variable stands in favor of males with the total score of 0.011%. Similarly, as far as the effect of age factor on OCB is concerned, there have been statistically significant differences at (α=0.05) in relation to courtesy, sportsmanship, and civic virtue with the total score of 0.27%. Finally, the results provide a baseline data for further studies which may contribute more significant in the field of OCB.
Towards Dewetting Monoclonal Antibodies for Therapeutical Purposes
Authors: Tozzi Arturo
Published: May 2019

Dewetting transition - a concept borrowed from fluid mechanics -  is a physiological process which takes place inside the hydrophobic pores of ion channels.  This transient phenomenon causes a metastable state which forbids water molecules to cross the microscopic receptors’ cavities.  This leads to a decrease of conductance, a closure of the hole and, subsequently, severe impairment of cellular performance.  We suggest that  artificially-provoked dewetting transition in ion channels’ hydrophobic pores could stand for a molecular candidate to erase detrimental organisms, such as viruses, bacteria and cancer cells.  We describe a novel type of high-affinity monoclonal antibody, which: a) targets specific trans-membrane receptor structures of harmful or redundant cells; b) is equipped with lipophilic and/or hydrophobic fragments that prevent physiological water flows inside ion channels.  Therefore, we achieve an artificial dewetting transition inside receptors’ cavities which causes transmembrane ionic flows discontinuity, channel blockage and subsequent damage of morbid cells.  As an example, we describe dewetting monoclonal antibodies targeting the M2 channel of the Influenza A virus: they might prevent water to enter the pores, thus leading to virion impairment.
Recent Topics on the Mechanisms of Immunosuppressive Therapy-Related Neurotoxicities
Authors: Zhang Wei , Egashira Nobuaki , Masuda Satohiro
Published: May 2019

Although transplantation procedures have been developed for patients with end-stagec hepatic insufficiency or other diseases, allograft rejection still threatens patient health and lifespan. Over the last few decades, the emergence of immunosuppressive agents, such as calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors, have strikingly increased graft survival. Unfortunately, immunosuppressive agent-related neurotoxicity is commonly occurred in clinical situations, with the majority of neurotoxicity cases caused by CNIs. The possible mechanisms whereby CNIs cause neurotoxicity include: increasing the permeability or injury of the blood-brain barrier, alterations of mitochondrial function, and alterations in electrophysiological state. Other immunosuppressants can also induce neuropsychiatric complications. For example, mTOR inhibitors induce seizures; mycophenolate mofetil induces depression and headache; methotrexate affects the central nervous system; mouse monoclonal immunoglobulin G2 antibody against cluster of differentiation 3 also induces headache; and patients using corticosteroids usually experience cognitive alteration. Therapeutic drug monitoring, individual therapy based on pharmacogenetics, and early recognition of symptoms have greatly reduced neurotoxic events. Once neurotoxicity occurs, a reduction in the drug dosage, switching to other immunosuppressants, using drugs to treat the neuropsychiatric manifestation, or blood purification therapy have proven to be effective against neurotoxicity. In this review, we summarize the recent topics on the mechanisms of neurotoxicity of immunosuppressive drugs. In addition, some information about neuroprotective effects of several immunosuppressants are also discussed.
Image-Guided Chondrocyte Harvesting for Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation
Authors: Zikria Bashir , Hafezi-Nejad Nima , Patten Ian , Johnson Alex , Haj-Mirzaian Arya , Wilckens John H. , Ficke James R. , Demehri Shadpour
Published: May 2019

Background:

Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), a promising modality for repairing full-thickness cartilage defects, requires 2 consecutive arthroscopic procedures for chondrocyte harvesting and implantation. In the present study, we assessed the feasibility and efficacy of image-guided chondrocyte harvesting as an alternative to arthroscopic biopsy.

Methods:

We induced full-thickness cartilage defects in 10 human cadaveric knees. Computed tomographic arthrography (CTA) was performed following the intra-articular administration of Omnipaque 350 to measure the diameters of the induced cartilage defects. Subsequently, 2 independent operators conducted CTA-guided chondrocyte harvesting (from the medial and lateral trochlear ridges) in each knee. The time for chondrocyte harvesting, accuracy (distance between the predefined target on CTA and the final insertion site of the needle), and number of needle readjustments were recorded. In the institutional review board-approved clinical study, informed consent was obtained and chondrocyte harvesting was performed both with use of a conventional arthroscopic biopsy method and with use of a needle through an arthroscopy access site in 10 subjects for whom ACI was indicated. The samples were processed and cultured blindly, and the quantity and quality of the samples were determined.

Results:

CTA measurements of full-thickness cartilage defects showed high to perfect absolute agreement and consistency when compared with direct measurements (overall interclass correlation coefficient, 0.933 to 0.983; p < 0.05). For both operators, image-guided chondrocyte harvesting from the lateral ridge was more accurate (p = 0.007 and 0.040) and faster (p = 0.056 and 0.014) in comparison with harvesting from the medial ridge. In the clinical study, no significant difference was observed for the growth index of samples between the needle-harvest and conventional methods (p = 0.897).

Conclusions:

CTA can be used for precise measurement of full-thickness cartilage defects. Image-guided chondrocyte harvesting is a viable alternative to traditional arthroscopic biopsy for ACI.

Clinical Relevance:

We recognize the current pivotal role of arthroscopic biopsy, as a part of ACI, for chondrocyte harvesting as well as for delineating the nature of the lesion. However, on the basis of our results, image-guided chondrocyte retrieval may obviate the need for arthroscopic biopsy in some patients in the future.
CFD Modeling of Hydraulic Behavior of Oil- and Water-Based Drilling Fluids in Laminar Flow
Authors: Sayindla Sneha , Lund Bjørnar , Ytrehus Jan David , Saasen Arild
Published: May 2019

In recent years, drilling fluids have become more complex in nature to satisfy diverse requirements in drilling operations. Accurate prediction of the frictional pressure losses while drilling is complex because of a combination of various drilling parameters. In the present study, a computational–fluid–dynamics (CFD) analysis is performed to investigate the hydraulics of solids–free non–Newtonian drilling fluids with an eccentric annulus coupled with a rotating drillstring. The Herschel-Bulkley fluid model is used to describe the non-Newtonian fluid behavior of the drilling fluid. Annular inlet fluid velocities are varied from 0.5 to 1.2 m/s (laminar flow). Simulation results are compared with the experimental data from the in–house flow–loop results. The flow loop has a 10–m–long annulus section with a 100–mm–inner–diameter (ID) wellbore and 50–mm–outer–diameter (OD) fully eccentric drillstring. Pressure–drop results from the flow–loop experiments at various flow velocities with and without drillstring rotation are reported. Experimental results show that the pressure drop increases with the drillstring rotation in an eccentric annulus. Pressure–drop predictions from CFD analysis are in close agreement with the experimental results. Also, it has been observed that drilling fluids with similar viscosity profiles measured according to API RP 13D (2017) can have significantly different hydraulic and cuttings–transport behavior. As observed from experimental results, drilling fluids with similar viscosity profiles and density have different pressure drops. This study will contribute to a better understanding of the hydraulic behavior of drilling fluids.
The Effect of Layered Modulus on Hydraulic-Fracture Modeling and Fracture-Height Containment
Authors: Yue Kaimin , Olson Jon E. , Schultz Richard A.
Published: May 2019

Oil and gas production from unconventional reservoirs, which are usually stratified with layers having different mechanical properties, generally requires the aid of hydraulic–fracturing technology. Predicting hydraulic–fracture–height growth is one of the critical factors in designing successful hydraulic–fracturing treatments. It has been well–documented that the in–situ–stress contrast between adjacent layers and interface properties are the dominating factors in fracture–height containment, whereas the modulus contrast between adjacent layers is generally considered to be of secondary importance in the direct control of fracture–height containment. However, the arrest of fluid–driven fractures at soft layers is often observed in outcrops and hydraulic–fracture–diagnostic field tests. The objective of this study is to investigate fracture–height containment resulting from the modulus contrast between adjacent layers.

To illustrate the effect of modulus contrast on fracture–height containment, this study proposes a new approach that uses the effective modulus of a layered reservoir. We use 2D finite–element models to evaluate the effective modulus of a layered reservoir, considering the effects of modulus values, fracture–tip location, height percentage of each rock layer, layer location, the number of layers, and the mechanical anisotropy. Then, the effect of modulus contrast on fracture–height growth is investigated with an analysis of the stress–intensity factor, taking into account the change of the effective modulus as the fracture tip propagates from the stiff layer to the soft layer.

This study shows that the detail of layering does not affect the effective modulus and the only important parameters are fracture–tip locations, modulus values, and the height percentage of each rock layer. In addition, this study empirically derives two approximations of effective moduli depending on fracture–tip locations: the modified height–weighted mean and the modified height–weighted harmonic average. Results from combining linear–elastic fracture mechanics with the effective–modulus approximations show that height growth will be inhibited by the soft layer because of a reduced stress–intensity factor.

The effective moduli can be applied to other hydraulic–fracture models to take into account the layering effect. This study also shows that soft layers inhibit hydraulic–fracture–height growth in layered reservoirs. As a result, hydraulic–fracture–height containment within a stratified rock stack can be better evaluated by comparing the modulus contrast between adjacent layers.
Ex vivo mouse hematopoietic stem cell expansion using polyvinyl alcohol
Authors: Wilkinson Adam C. , Ishida Reiko , Yamazaki Satoshi , Nakauchi Hiromitsu
Published: May 2019

The self-renewal of multipotent hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) is key for life-long maintenance of hematopoiesis and the curative capacity of clinical bone marrow transplantation. However, while in vivo HSC self-renewal has been well-described, existing culture conditions poorly support ex vivo HSC self-renewal and afford a very limited window to study or modify HSCs in-a-dish. Here, we describe a simple culture platform that supports functional mouse HSCs ex vivo for 1-2 months. Rather than containing serum albumin, the media uses the synthetic polymer polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). PVA represents an inexpensive and chemically-defined alternative to serum albumin supplements, which have long represented a major source of biological contaminants and batch-to-batch variability in HSC cultures. This novel culture system therefore provides a useful platform to expand and interrogate mouse HSCs.
Effects of Rolling and Sand Topdressing on Dollar Spot Severity in Fairway Turfgrass
Authors: Green Thomas O. , Rogers John N. , Crum James R. , Vargas Joseph M. , Nikolai Thomas A.
Published: May 2019

Results suggest that sand topdressing was more consistent at reducing dollar spot (Clarireedia jacksonii) in fairway turfgrass more so than rolling. This practice could be an effective cost-saving alternative to reduce frequent fungicide applications. Research was conducted from 2011 to 2014 on a simulated golf fairway and examined dollar spot severity responses in a mixed-stand of creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) and annual bluegrass (Poa annua ssp. reptans) to sand topdressing and rolling. Treatments consisted of biweekly sand topdressing, rolling at three frequencies (one, three, or five times weekly), a control, and three replications. Infection was visually estimated. Sand topdressing significantly (P < 0.05) reduced disease up to 50% at the peak of the dollar spot activity in 2011, 2013, and 2014. Results on the effects of rolling on dollar spot were inconsistent.
Temperature‐Dependency of Phosphorus Sorption by Goethites and Tropical Soils Amended with Woodchip Biochar
Authors: Amarakoon Inoka , Zvomuya Francis , Motaung Mercy L.
Published: May 2019

Core Ideas

Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms described P sorption by oxides and soils, respectively.

Biochar increased the extent and relative strength of P sorption by goethite at 15°C.

Biochar reduced P sorption but increased P binding strength for sandy loam at 35°C.

Phosphorus is a key nutrient in agriculture but also a common contaminant. Bioavailability and transport of P are controlled by, among other things, the presence of Fe and Al oxides in tropical soils. Biochar has been suggested for improving the bioavailability and reducing the off‐site transport of P. The objective of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the effect of biochar on P sorption by goethite, aluminum‐substituted goethite (Al‐goethite), and two tropical soils amended with 0, 20, and 40 g biochar kg−1 at 15, 25, and 35°C. Sorption by goethite and Al‐goethite was adequately described by the Freundlich isotherm although the Langmuir isotherm was a better fit for the two soils tested. At 15°C, biochar application increased P sorption by goethite from 9.5 to 11 g kg−1/(mg L−1)1/n as indicated by the increase in the Freundlich constant, Kf, and the increase in relative sorption strength represented by a reduction in the Freundlich exponent (1/n) from 1.2 to 0.8. At 35°C, biochar addition significantly reduced the Langmuir sorption maximum (Smax) from 17.3 to 15.8 g kg−1 (mg L−1)−1 for the sandy loam soil, indicating a reduction in P sorption capacity in the presence of biochar. Biochar addition also significantly increased the Langmuir constant, (KL) for the sandy loam from 0.04 to 1.7 L mg−1 at 35°C, indicating greater P binding strength in the presence of biochar. The sorption data from this study provide insights into the effect of temperature on P sorption by Fe oxides and tropical soils in the presence of biochar.
Agricultural Edge‐of‐Field Phosphorus Losses in Ontario, Canada: Importance of the Nongrowing Season in Cold Regions
Authors: Plach Janina , Pluer Will , Macrae Merrin , Kompanizare Mazda , McKague Kevin , Carlow Ryan , Brunke Richard
Published: May 2019

Agricultural P losses are a global economic and water quality concern. Much of the current understanding of P dynamics in agricultural systems has been obtained from rainfall‐driven runoff, and less is known about cold‐season processes. An improved understanding of the magnitude, form, and transport flow paths of P losses from agricultural croplands year round, and the climatic drivers of these processes, is needed to prioritize and evaluate appropriate best management practices (BMPs) to protect soil‐water quality in cold regions. This study examines multiyear, year‐round, high‐frequency edge‐of‐field P losses (soluble reactive P and total P [TP]) in overland flow and tile drainage from three croplands in southern Ontario, Canada. Annual and seasonal budgets for water, P, and estimates of field P budgets (including fertilizer inputs, crop uptake, and runoff) were calculated for each site. Annual edge‐of‐field TP loads ranged from 0.18 to 1.93 kg ha−1 yr−1 (mean = 0.59 kg ha−1 yr−1) across the region, including years with fertilizer application. Tile drainage dominated runoff across sites, whereas the contribution of tiles and overland flow to P loss differed regionally, likely related to site‐specific topography, soil type, and microclimate. The nongrowing season was the dominant period for runoff and P loss across sites, where TP loss during this period was often associated with overland flow during snowmelt. These results indicate that emphasis should be placed on BMPs that are effective during both the growing and nongrowing season in cold regions, but that the suitability of various BMPs may vary for different sites.

Core Ideas

We conducted a multiyear, field‐based study of edge‐of‐field runoff and P loss.

Tile drainage was the dominant pathway for runoff.

Contribution of tiles and overland flow to P loss differed regionally.

The nongrowing season was critical for edge‐of‐field runoff and P loss.
Reanalysis Validates Soil Health Indicator Sensitivity and Correlation with Long‐term Crop Yields
Authors: van Es Harold M. , Karlen Douglas L.
Published: May 2019

Core Ideas

Soil health metrics were sensitive in North Carolina soils.

Tillage intensity and fertility practices were especially differentiated by biological soil health metrics.

Soil health metrics associated with labile organic matter correlated well with crop yields.

Soil health (SH) refers to the ability of a soil to function and provide ecosystem services. This study reanalyzes data from long‐term agronomic management experiments in North Carolina and addresses previous conclusions regarding the utility of SH test metrics. Data for 15 SH indicators in the Comprehensive Assessment of Soil Health (CASH) framework from three long‐term trials in North Carolina were analyzed to assess effects of tillage intensity and organic vs. conventional management. This included four soil biological indicators—organic matter (OM), active carbon (ActC), respiration (Resp), and protein (Prot); four soil physical indicators—available water capacity (AWC), water‐stable aggregation (Agstab), surface and subsurface penetration resistance (SurfHard, SubHard); and seven soil chemical (fertility) indicators (P, K, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, pH). Corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) yield data and SH indicator values were correlated using site‐specific and multi‐site datasets. Long‐term management practices most commonly showed significant impacts with AgStab (up to 2.2′), ActC (2.1′), Prot (2.3′), and most chemical indicators. Tillage intensity had a greater impact than organic vs. conventional management and linear regression of multi‐year mean corn and soybean yield response to tillage showed significant correlations with eight SH indicators, highest among them ActC, Protein, Resp, and Mn (R2 = 0.85–0.93). Contrary to previous conclusions, CASH indicators, especially those related to labile C and N, responded well to management practices and showed utility for SH assessment in agronomic trials.
Plant Available Nitrogen Estimation Tools for a Biosolids‐Amended, Clayey Urban Soil
Authors: Alvarez-Campos Odiney , Evanylo Gregory K.
Published: May 2019

Core Ideas

Biosolids produced by heat‐drying and Cambi process had higher plant available N.

Biosolids blended with woody byproducts had lower plant available N.

Soil nitrate and 7‐d anaerobic incubation were the best indicators of N availability.

Soil test reliability may have been reduced by high clay and low C and N of urban soil.

Improving mineralizable N estimates from exceptional quality (EQ) biosolids products is important for making more reliable N recommendations to rehabilitate disturbed urban soils for vegetative production. The objectives of this study were to compare the N fertilizer equivalency method and several chemical (NH4–N, NO3–N, total N, and organic N) and biological (7 d anaerobic incubation [7‐AI] and Solvita CO2 Burst) tests for quantifying plant available nitrogen (PAN) and organic N mineralization of EQ biosolids used to grow tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus Schreb.) in a clayey urban degraded soil. The EQ biosolids were products of thermal hydrolysis plus anaerobic digestion (Blue Plains exceptional quality biosolids; BLOOM), blending of BLOOM with woody mulch (BM), blending of BLOOM with sand and sawdust (Blue Pains exceptional quality biosolids + sand + sawdust; BSS), composting (Livingston compost; LBC), and heat drying (OCB; OceanGro thermally dried). The EQ biosolids were applied at agronomic N rates, and the inorganic fertilizer was applied at four N rates in a field study. The N fertilizer equivalency method predicted considerably lower organic N mineralization than calculated for BM (7.1%), BSS (–12%), and LBC (4.6%). Treatments BLOOM, BM, and OCB had the highest 7‐AI organic N mineralization. Correlations between tall fescue N uptake and soil N tests showed that soil NO3–N and 7‐AI were the best indicators of biosolids N availability in our urban soil. However, the relatively low correlations between soil N indicators and tall fescue N uptake was likely due to low residual soil N, high soil clay content, and possible low microbial activity of the low organic matter‐containing anthropogenic soil.
Subsurface Clay Soil Application Improved Aggregate Stability, Nitrogen Availability, and Organic Carbon Preservation in Degraded Ultisols with Cover Crop Mixtures
Authors: Ye Rongzhong , Parajuli Binaya , Sigua Gilbert
Published: May 2019

Core Ideas

Subsurface clay soil amendment improved soil aggregation and its stability.

Microbial activities were suppressed by clay soil applications.

Clay soil amendment enhanced labile organic C pools.

Additions of clay soil promoted ammonium fixation and reduced nitrate leaching.

Coastal Plain soils of the southeastern United States are highly degraded, with low soil organic carbon (C), meager soil fertility, and poor soil structure. We tested the effectiveness of clay soil amendment to promote the formation of soil aggregates, improve organic C stability, and enhance nutrient availability in field. Subsurface clay soils (B horizon, 25% clay) were applied (∼25 T ha–1) to the top of the soil surface, followed by the planting of winter cover crop mixtures. Crop growth and nutrient uptake and relevant soil biogeochemical properties were analyzed at the end of the winter season. Additions of subsurface clay soils prompted the formation of water‐stable macroaggregates (250–2000 mm) from 32 to 54% and increased mean weight diameter of the aggregates from 390 to 592 mm. Additions of subsurface clay soils increased clay content from 1.5 to 3.8% but did not change soil texture, pH, water holding capacity, and bulk density. The stock of dissolved organic nitrogen was not affected by the amendment, whereas nitrate leaching from field was reduced by 61% because of clay soil application. Clay soil additions inhibited the activities of C‐cycling (N‐acetyl‐β‐glucosaminidase, β‐d‐cellubiosidase, β‐glucosidase, and β‐xylosidase) and N‐cycling (leucine aminopeptidase) enzymes but did not modify soil microbial community level substrate utilization patterns, resulting in a 63% reduction in C turnover rate and 19% increases in concentrations of labile organic C. Our results indicated that subsurface clay soil amendment can improve soil structure, nutrient availability, and the stability of labile C in the field, at least in the short term, and may be a promising management alternative to enhance the productivity and sustainability of the degraded Coastal plain soils.
Assessment of Managed Aquifer Recharge Sites Using a New Geophysical Imaging Method
Authors: Behroozmand Ahmad A. , Auken Esben , Knight Rosemary
Published: May 2019

Core Ideas

We introduce a new geophysical imaging method to assess managed aquifer recharge sites.

This method provides high‐resolution 3D imaging of the subsurface down to a minimum depth of 50 m.

We introduce Resistivity Distribution Plot as a new approach to assign a saturated–unsaturated boundary.

In many places around the world, much attention is focused on managed aquifer recharge (MAR) because of reduced groundwater levels due to droughts. To assess the suitability of a site for MAR, detailed three‐dimensional (3D) information about the subsurface materials and their hydraulic properties is needed. In areas where the groundwater level is at an intermediate depth (e.g., 20–40 m), such information is needed from the ground surface down to a minimum depth of ∼50 m. To achieve this goal, we used a new geophysical imaging system: a towed time‐domain electromagnetic system that is efficient for acquiring data at a significantly improved resolution and a scale needed for MAR. During a 2‐d period, we acquired ∼92 line‐kilometers of data in one almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] grove, one pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) grove, one open field, and two active recharge basins in the Tulare Irrigation District in the Central Valley of California. At each site, a detailed 3D resistivity model with a resolution down to the 10‐ by 10‐m scale is presented in terms of resistivity distribution plots, which are then used to assign a saturated–unsaturated boundary. In addition, we used a resistivity–lithology transform to interpret the resistivity models and create lithology maps at each site. We used this information to assess the suitability of each site for MAR.
La seguridad como elemento clave en el tratamiento de datos personales en Europa: especial referencia al régimen de responsabilidad civil derivado de las brechas de seguridad
Authors: Platero Alcón Alejandro
Published: May 2019

Las nuevas tecnologías han permitido enormes ventajas para los ciudadanos del siglo XXI, pero a su vez han puesto de manifiesto graves intrusiones en la privacidad de los mismos. En concreto, se expondrán las posibles consecuencias jurídicas civiles derivadas de las conocidas como brechas de seguridad, figura regulada recientemente en el Reglamento de Protección de DatosEuropeo,instrumento que impone al responsable del tratamiento de datos personales una serie de obligaciones cuando acontece la misma.
ESTUDO PRELIMINAR TEÓRICO-EXPERIMENTAL DO PROCESSO DIFUSIVO NA FORMAÇÃO DE HIDRATOS DE CICLOPENTANO A PARTIR DE GELO EM PÓ
Authors: Ferreira Filho Ivan Ramos , Barros Yuri Tolêdo , Barreira Matheus Ribeiro , Bucsky Catharina Höhn , Da Silveira Kelly Cristine , Silva Neto Antônio José
Published: May 2019

Hidratos de gás são compostos cristalinos formados por moléculas de água, capazes de aprisionar pequenas moléculas apolares, como o metano, o gás carbônico e o ciclopentano. Esses cristais têm sido amplamente investigados pela indústria e meio acadêmico, recebendo destaque, mais recentemente, como uma nova tecnologia com aplicações diversas, especialmente, no setor energético. A tecnologia de hidratos, como um novo método, introduz o desafio de otimizar o conteúdo de gás, mantendo a estabilidade em condições brandas, seguras e econômicas. A partir de uma investigação teórico-experimental, o processo difusivo envolvido na formação do hidrato de ciclopentano, a partir de gelo em pó esférico, é caracterizado computacionalmente. Buscando um melhor entendimento da cinética do processo de formação, que ainda hoje permanece pouco compreendida, este estudo apresenta o desenvolvimento de um novo protocolo experimental, especialmente idealizado para o modelo computacional empregado na investigação do processo de formação de hidrato de ciclopentano. Os resultados preliminares são promissores. O protocolo experimental desenvolvido é eficiente, apesar de simples e de baixo custo, mostrando-se em total concordância com a geometria do problema computacional em avaliação. A aplicação dos dados experimentais do hidrato de ciclopentano ao modelo, inicialmente desenvolvido apenas para o hidrato de metano, mostra-se adequado dentro dos parâmetros abordados para este estudo.
Adaptive Speed Controller for a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
Authors: Aguilar Mejía Omar , Tapia Olvera Rubén , Rivas Cambero Iván de Jesús , Minor Popocalt Hertwin
Published: May 2019

This paper presents a controller performance that is develop employing an adaptive B-spline neural network algorithm for adjusting the rotor speed of the permanent magnet synchronous motor. It includes a comparative analysis with three control strategies: conventional proportional integral, sliding mode and fuzzy logic. Also, gives a systematic way to determine the optimal control gains and improve the tracking error performance. A methodology for the adaptive controller and its training procedure are explained. The efficacy of the proposed method is analyzed using time simulations where the motor is subjected to disturbances and reference changes. The proposed control technique exhibits the best performance because it can adapt to every condition, demanding low computational effort for an on-line operation and considering the system nonlinearities.
Psychometric properties of the Desensitization to Violence Scale for Adolescents
Authors: F. Galán Jiménez Jaime Sebastián , Sánchez-Armáss Cappello Omar , García y Barragán Luis Felipe
Published: May 2019

Introduction: Desensitization to violence is the result of exposure to violence. It reduces the negative emotions in cognitive and physiological responses to violence and can even generate a positive response to it.Method: A mixed sequential method yielding a transactional analytic design for Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis with a sample of 1720 participants of 25 different high schools and a juvenile detention center. Followed by convergent validity (as a criterion validity) with a different sample.Results: The EFA’s cumulative explained variance was 52% with a GFI of .98 with a three-factor model: sensitivity to violence, amusement with physical violence, and enjoyment of psychological violence. The CFA showed scores above .50 in Average Explained Variance in every factor, and an ideal model fit in every measure (CFI, AGFI, RMSEA, SRMR, and ECVI). The remaining factors are only those related with enjoying or amusement with violent behavior, indicating that the desensitization to violence is related not only with the normalization and legitimation of violence, but the increasing of the performance and amusement of it.Discussion or Conclusion: The scale of desensitization to violence for adolescents has adequate psychometric properties and can be a valuable instrument to generate intervention or prevention programs, especially for its intimate relationship with high scores in people interned because of their criminal behavior.
Huella genética de variedades de fresa obtenidas en el Colegio de Postgraduados, México
Authors: Tlatelpa Martín Aguilar , Zavala Guillermo Calderón , Espinosa María Alejandra Gutiérrez , Ortiz Ricardo Lobato , Téllez Leobigildo Córdoba , Haller Victor Volke , Fajardo Franco Marja Liza , Varela Amalio Santacruz
Published: May 2019

En un programa de mejoramiento genético de fresa (Fragaria × ananassa) es importante contar con la metodología para evaluar la integridad genética de la planta en todas las etapas de incremento, desde diferentes criterios, como el fisiológico, morfológico y el molecular; para este propósito, una de las herramientas más apropiadas son los marcadores moleculares denominados Secuencias Simples Repetidas del inglés Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR), ya que permiten, por ejemplo, identificar poblaciones con una diversidad genética reducida, revelar genealogías, conocer el grado de parentesco entre individuos, proporcionar elementos sólidos en la defensa de la propiedad intelectual, evaluar la pureza del material vegetal, identificar el grado de variación somaclonal y  evitar la mezcla de material vegetal en bancos de germoplasma. En este sentido, el presente estudio tuvo como objetivo obtener la huella genética de las variedades de fresa CP0201, CP0204, CP0615, CPLE7 desarrolladas en el Colegio de Postgraduados y como testigo la variedad Festival, desarrollada en Florida, USA, con el uso de nueve loci de microsatélites (SSR). El proceso incluyó la extracción de ADN a partir de tejido foliar de fresa, así como de la amplificación mediante PCR de punto final de los loci SSR agrupados en reacciones multiplex. Los productos de PCR fueron separados mediante electroforesis capilar y su tamaño en pares de bases se determinó con el programa GeneMapper® v. 4. A partir de las frecuencias alélicas se calcularon las matrices de distancia con los coeficientes de Jaccard y Dice. Se encontraron 63 alelos distintos, cada par de iniciadores amplificó entre 3 y 12 alelos. Los marcadores que presentaron mayor número de alelos fueron EMFn181 (11 alelos) y EMFv104 (12 alelos). Se generó la huella genética de cada variedad. Mediante los perfiles alélicos se encontraron diferencias entre las variedades CP0615, CPLE7 y Festival; CP0201 y CP0204 tuvieron una huella genética similar, ya que están emparentadas a través de su progenitor femenino; el índice de diversidad alélica dentro de las poblaciones varió de 3.96 a 5.93. Las variedades tuvieron un índice de uniformidad bajo debido al alto nivel de polimorfismo de los marcadores usados.