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Ultrasonic bone imaging is a complex task, primarily because of the low energy contained in the signals reflected from the internal bone structures. In this study, the reconstruction of a bone-mimicking phantom echographic image using time-domain topological energy (TDTE) is proposed. A TDTE image results from a combination of forward and adjoint fields. The first is a solution of a numerical model that reproduces the setup of the experimental data acquisition to the best extent possible. The second has similar characteristics, but the source term is the time-reversed residue between the forward field and signals obtained from the experiment. The acquisition-reconstruction system used a linear phased-array transducer with a 5 MHz center frequency to acquire the signals and was coupled with a k-wave toolbox to implement the numerical models and perform the image reconstruction. The results showed good agreement between the geometry of the real phantom and the ultrasonic images. However, thickness evaluation errors were observed, which may be due to incorrect assumptions about the velocity models throughout the medium, a priori assumed to be known. Thus, this method has shown promising results and should be applied to the real femoral neck as a long-term objective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates a political party or an association social network where members share a common set of beliefs. In modeling it as a distributed iterative algorithm with network dynamics mimicking the interactions between people, the problem of interest becomes that of determining: 1) the conditions when convergence happens in finite time and 2) the corresponding steady-state opinion. For a traditional model, it is shown that finite-time convergence requires a complete topology and that by removing neighbors with duplicate opinions reduces in half the number of links. Finite-time convergence is proved for two novel models even when nodes contact two other nodes of close opinion. In a deterministic setting, the network connectivity influences the final consensus and changes the relative weight of each node on the final value. In the case of mobile robots, a similar communication constraint is present which makes the analysis of the social network so relevant in the domain of control systems as a guideline to save resources and obtain finite-time consensus. Through simulations, the main results regarding convergence are illustrated paying special attention to the rates at which consensus is achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Travel behavior analyses through traditional discrete choice models offer insights into the factors that influence individual choices. However, the literature often neglects the spatial interactions between individuals and attributes in the context of walking trips. This paper investigates the spatial dependencies in walking travel choices with a case study in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. We compared a non-spatial and spatial lag of X (SLX) logit models for walking choices with data derived from a revealed preference survey conducted in the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo (MRSP). Sociodemographic information of individuals and trip-related attributes were included in the models. Overall, the prediction capabilities of the spatial models outperform the non-spatial model in terms of log-likelihood. The results indicate that the SLX with the attribute referring to the lower income group of individuals lagged by the distance of 500 m performed better compared to the non-spatial model. In the studied context, such groups are usually concentrated in more walkable neighborhoods. Therefore, improving the built environment and increasing job and educational opportunities may increase the propensity of walking for work and study trips in areas other than in higher income neighborhoods. • Walking travel choices assessed through Revealed Preference (RP) data. • Spatial lag of X models with sociodemographic and trip-related attributes. • Distance threshold between 200 and 600 m influence walking choice decisions between neighbors. • Lower income individuals are influenced by neighbors in walking travel choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser marking is a critical production process step in most automated production systems. However, some materials such as polyoxymethylene (POM) can be quite challenging to laser to 80 kHz.mark, hence the need to develop new laser marking methods. By employing a wide range of marking parameters (marking speed 15–2000 mm/s, laser power from 10 to 100% of 30 W maximum, and frequencies mainly from 1 to 400 kHz) and characterization techniques, and with the use of marker inks as masking agents successful laser marking POM is demonstrated irrespective of its presentation (white or black coloured) using a new method akin to Laser Polymer Tattooing (LPT), and without prior modification of polymer composition (by addition of laser marking additives). Results indicate laser marking of acceptable quality can be obtained with black POM at marking speeds up to 2000 mm/s. For white POM, markings of acceptable quality were obtained at markings speeds up to 100 mm/s, with laser power ≥ 80% (of 30 W maximum), and with frequencies in the range of 20 kHz with the help of a masking agent. The effects of the laser marking parameters on marking quality and the changes induced in the material are presented and discussed. The wide range of marking parameters employed enabled the determination of feasible marking parameters for the development of a lean manufacturing-based automatic and self-evaluating and improving laser marking system with minimal human intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke is the second leading cause of mortality in the world. In addition to causing physical and cognitive sequelae to the patient, stroke can contribute to the appearance of anxious and depressive symptoms, usually in the first year after stroke. The aim of this study was to carry out an analysis of self-awareness about the deficits caused by stroke, and their possible relationship with the presence of anxious and depressive symptoms. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out based on the collection of variables related to self-awareness and the presence of anxious and depressive symptoms. The sample included the presence of 71 people who had a stroke, aged between 18 and 60 years and attended at a public referral center in southern Brazil. Instruments were used to assess self-awareness, to check for the presence of anxious and depressive symptoms and to screen for cognitive decline. It was possible to confirm that there is a link between anxious / depressive factors and the presence of deficits in self-awareness. That is, the more anxious the participant was, the lower his self-awareness of the deficits he had. Approximately 63% of the sample also showed mild cognitive decline that can influence aspects of self-awareness. This research contributed to the analysis of factors related to self-awareness and the appearance of anxious and depressive symptoms in post-stroke patients. The results found can effectively assist in the elaboration of rehabilitation plans better adapted to the reality of these patients, facilitating prevention and health promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study evaluated the chemical characterization, larvicidal activity and molluscicidal activity in front of the snail transmitting schistosomes (Biomphalaria glabrata) of the essential oils of Alpinia zerumbet and Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf. The essential oils (EOs) were extracted by hydrodistillation, with chemical characterization through Gas Chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The physical-chemical parameters were determined according to the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia. The toxicity test followed the bioassay with Artemia salina Leach, the EOs approved in this assay followed to evaluate their biological properties. Methodology: for molluscicidal activity, the methodology recommended by the WHO was performed, and the LC50 of the EOs was performed for their action in the face of the snail obtained by the Reed&Muench method. Both EOs showed low toxicity, and thus were evaluated for the biological properties larvicidal and molluscicidal. Alpinia zerumbet EO showed molluscicidal activity with LC50 of 40.63 mg·L-1 and Cymbopogon citratus EO 33.94 mg·L-1. Results: Both EOs showed larvicidal and molluscicidal potentials against the organisms tested, showing satisfactory results for their action. The results indicate that the evaluated EOs are composed of substances that promote and encourage their application due to their potential for molluscicidal and larvicidal biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article introduces the notion of absolutely distinguishable discrete‐time dynamic systems, with particular applicability to linear time‐invariant and linear parameter‐varying systems. The motivation for this novel type of distinguishability stems, in particular, from the stability and performance requirements of worst‐case adaptive control methodologies. The main results presented herein show that, in most practical cases, a persistence of excitation type of condition and a minimum number of iterations are required to properly distinguish two dynamic systems. We also demonstrate that the former constraint can be written as a lower bound on the intensity of the exogenous disturbances. The applicability of the developed theory is illustrated with a set of examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes the preparation and characterization of hybrid organo-modified montmorillonite (OMt) produced by intercalation of phosphonium-based plus ammonium and/or amine-based surfactants, aiming to improve thermal and compatibility properties for the manufacture of clay mineral polymer nanocomposites (CPN). The choice of the surfactants was based on previous studies, which have pointed out that the phosphonium-based surfactant provided the clay mineral a high thermal stability but low d 001 -value and hydrophobicity. On the other hand, ammonium-based compounds presented inverse properties, i.e., low thermal stability and high d 001 -value. The present work was supported by design of experiments (DOE) considering different surfactant concentrations. The materials were analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to evaluate the thermal stability and relative reactional yield, by X-ray diffraction (XRD), to evaluate the surfactant intercalation by d 001 of the clay, also by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and contact angle, to verify the components interaction and the hydrophobicity. The hybrid montmorillonites presented intermediate properties, as thermal stability and basal space, when compared with the clay modified by the single modifiers. The intercalated species were arranged in paraffin-type structure and their conformation and tilt angle changed by increasing the ammonium concentration. Statistical analysis allowed knowing the concentration effects of each surfactant on hybrid materials. From the statistical models, an optimized formulation considering the maximum d 001 -value, T onset (initial temperature of thermal degradation) and yield responses was prepared, which had its significance tested by Anova and F-test, and was validated by experimental values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of new forms of drugs from the current existing active principles is an alternative to the costly and time-consuming process of developing new ones. The blend of sericin and alginate has been proposed as a polymer matrix for the incorporation of ketoprofen as a modified formulation. An experimental design was performed by varying the initial amount of alginate and drug added. Incorporation efficiency, drug loading, and release time of 85% were applied as response variables. Drug loading was statistically affected by both independent variables and the highest value (40.25 ± 0.23%) was achieved for the lower amount of alginate and higher amount of ketoprofen initially added. The incorporation efficiency was statistically affected only by the amount of alginate and its higher values were reached by the smaller amount of alginate added. Time to release 85% was not affected by any of the independent variables, although the longer times were achieved for the greater amount of drug added. In general, the best particle produced was K3, produced with the lowest amount of alginate and higher amount of ketoprofen initially added. The characterization analyzes of SEM, FTIR, XRD, OM and TGA confirmed the incorporation of ketoprofen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neste trabalho apresentamos uma proposta de intervenção didática em um curso de formação inicial de professores de física desenvolvida para capacitar os futuros docentes para o desenvolvimento de atividades interdisciplinares em escolas da educação básica. O método é baseado no desenvolvimento de um projeto interdisciplinar e na meta análise das atividades desenvolvidas pelos acadêmicos. Nossos resultados apresentam indícios de que ao final da intervenção didática os estudantes são capazes de planejar novas atividades interdisciplinares para serem desenvolvidas em escolas da educação básica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to propose an early warning model for predicting financial distress events in Brazilian banking institutions. Initially, a set of economic-financial indicators is evaluated, suggested by the risk management literature for identifying situations of bank insolvency and exclusively taking public information into account. For this, multivariate logistic regressions are performed, using as independent variables financial indicators involving capital adequacy, asset quality, management quality, earnings, and liquidity. The empirical analysis was based on a sample of 142 financial institutions, including privately and publicly held and state-owned companies, using monthly data from 2006 to 2014, which resulted in panel data with 12,136 observations. In the sample window there were nine cases of Brazilian Central Bank intervention or mergers and acquisitions motivated by financial distress. The results were evaluated based on the estimation of the in-sample parameters, out-of-sample tests, and the early warning model signs for a 12-month forecast horizon. These obtained true positive rates of 81%, 94%, and 89%, respectively. We conclude that typical balance-sheet indicators are relevant for the early warning signs of financial distress in Brazilian banks, which contributes to the literature on financial intermediary credit risk, especially from the perspective of bank supervisory agencies acting towards financial stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims at evaluating the organophilization of montmorillonite with two different types of surfactants: one ionic, containing C16-C18 di(alkyl ester) dimethyl ammonium chloride (EA) and one nonionic, containing ethoxylated tallow amine (ETA). Aqueous dispersion and semi-solid routes were compared in terms of functionalization efficiency by statistical analysis, and supercritical CO 2 was performed as a complementary and comparative method. Besides, the effect of the washing process after functionalization was evaluated. X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and contact angle were used to evaluate the intercalation of surfactants into montmorillonite and process yield. The d 001 -value was improved by both surfactants intercalation, and the conformations of the species inside the clay minerals were suggested. The final arrangement of the organic species into Mt was modified as a function of the concentration of surfactant added, and by the washing steps. Most process parameters evaluated showed significant effects on d 001 -value and process yield. The semi-solid method was confirmed as a good alternative route due to its efficiency and it could be an environmentally friendly option to be used. ETA-modified montmorillonites showed similar d 001 -values (around 4.0 nm) and higher thermal stability than EA-modified montmorillonite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of fault detection and isolation of linear parameter-varying systems, a challenging task appears when the dynamics and the available measurements render the model unobservable, which invalidates the use of standard set-valued observers. Two results are obtained in this paper, namely, using a left-coprime factorization, one can achieve set-valued estimates with ultimately bounded hyper-volume and convergence dependent on the slowest unobservable mode; and by rewriting the set-valued observer equations and taking advantage of a coprime factorization, it is possible to have a low-complexity fault detection and isolation method. Performance is assessed through simulation, illustrating, in particular, the detection time for various types of faults. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the problem of fault detection for linear parameter-varying systems in the presence of measurement noise and exogenous disturbances using Set-Valued Observers (SVOs). The applicability of current methods is limited in the sense that, to increase accuracy, the detection requires a large number of past measurements and the boundedness of the set-valued estimates is only guaranteed for stable systems. In order to widen the class of systems to be modeled and also to reduce the associated computational cost, the aforementioned issues must be addressed. A solution involving left-coprime factorization and deadbeat observers is proposed that reduces the required number of past measurements without compromising accuracy and allowing the design of SVOs for fault detection of unstable systems by using the resulting coprime factorization stable subsystems. The algorithm is shown to produce bounded set-valued estimates and an example is provided. Performance is assessed through simulations, illustrating, in particular that small-magnitude faults (compared to exogenous disturbances) can be detected under mild assumptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is committed to perform a geomorphological characterization in two micro-regions in northwestern Rio Grande do Sul state - South Brazil, and relate it to the forest coverage dynamics from 1985 to 2014.,4s input data, we used ASTER-GDEM (Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer - Global Digital Elevation Map) data. Three geomorphological maps were elaborated: elevation, aspect, and slope. The forest coverage maps were carried out using manual classification in Landsat 5 imagery (Thematic Mapper sensor) for the years of 1985, 1994 and 2005, and Landsat 8 (Operational Land Imager sensor) for the 2014 year. The results showed that great part of the study area presents undulating and strongly undulating relief, with east-oriented elevations ranging from 300 to 450 m. The forest coverage maps showed an increase of 50.4% forest cover between 1985 and 2014. Most of this increase took place on undulating and strongly undulating terrain, possibly due to the abandonment of agricultural areas and to the planting of exotic forest species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The clash involving capital and peasantry for the domain of the means and types of production is called Agrarian Question. Capital seeks to subordinate the peasantry through the expropriation of land, while the peasantry develops resistance strategies to face the capital investees and maintain their autonomy and leadership. The goal is to present and discuss the digital exclusion as a strategy engendered by capital to restrict peasant land development (material and immaterial). In developing the article, a qualitative-quantitative character approach was performed using a theoretical study of the literature, and in its applied aspects, which was documental by using the extensive direct observation technique. The analyzes, both regarding the theoretical survey on the information obtained from the empirical basis, lead to the conclusion that the peasantry of the Pontal do Paranapanema region goes through a process of digital exclusion. This deletion process does not mean that farmers are prevented from access to information and communication technologies (ICTs), but access is difficult, for example, lack of infrastructure and necessary services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this work was to investigate its internal structure, the validity evidences based on the relationship among variables by comparing the level of religiosity of the participants and estimating accuracy of the Escala de Avaliação da Percepção da Religiosidade. Studies in order to examine mean differences between age and gender were also conducted. To this end, two studies were conducted. 39 participants took part in building items and, from the instrument applied, 91 items were generated. The second study included 477 participants who answered Perception Scale of Religiosity. Two factors were found and the results were favorable to the validity and reability. Differences in means indicated that there were significant findings for the externalization of religiosity. Therefore, older participants had higher averages. No differences regarding gender were found. The results are discussed based on the literature available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the problem of detecting faults in linear randomized gossip algorithms, where the selection of the dynamics matrix is stochastic. A fault is a disturbance signal injected by an attacker to corrupt the states of the nodes. We propose the use of Set-Valued Observers (SVOs) to detect if the state observations are compatible with the system dynamics for the worst case in a deterministic setting. The concept of Stochastic Set-Valued Observers (SSVOs) is also introduced to construct a set that is guaranteed to contain all possible states with, at least, a pre-specified desired probability. The proposed algorithm is stable in the sense that it requires a finite number of vertices to represent polytopic sets and it allows for the computation of the largest magnitude of the disturbance that an attacker can inject in the network without being detected. Results are presented to reduce the computational cost of this approach and, in particular, by considering only local information and representing the remainder of the network as a disturbance. The case of a consensus algorithm is discussed leading to the conclusion that, by using the proposed SVOs, finite-time consensus is achieved in non-faulty environments. A novel algorithm is proposed that produces less conservative set-valued state estimates by having nodes exchanging local estimates. The algorithm inherits all the previous properties and also enables finite-time consensus computation regardless of the value of the horizon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to use a statistical tool to study and evaluate the main parameters in the preparation of organo-montmorillonite (O-Mt) by using different compounds and reactional routes (aqueous, semi-solid and supercritical CO 2 medium) aiming a better relationship between efficiency and environmental impact. For this, ammonium-modified montmorillonite (AmMt) and phosphonium-modified montmorillonite (PhMt) were prepared according to design of experiments. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and contact angle. XRD and TGA analysis showed that the compounds were incorporated in the montmorillonite providing an efficient modification by all the reactional routes employed. The clay interlayer spacing was expanded and AmMt showed the largest d 001 while PhMt showed better thermal stability. Statistical analysis indicated that the process parameters had low or no significance in the organo-montmorillonite characteristics. XRD, TGA and FTIR showed that the d 001 , yield and chemical environment of the O-Mt changed with the amount of organic compound and washing process. The contact angle test showed that the surface tension of montmorillonite was reduced with organophilization. It was concluded that semi-solid method could be a good, efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to prepare O-Mt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to develop three-dimensional materials based on graphene by a simple, low-cost, and environmentally friendly method, evaluating its toxicity and capacity for the cationic dye safranin removal from water. 3D-rGO materials were obtained by reducing graphene oxide (GO) in one step and through a sustainable route. The materials were obtained over 2 h, showing a self-supporting three-dimensional structure. The effect of ascorbic acid amount as a reducing agent for this material was evaluated. It was observed that variations in the reaction promoted significant morphological changes. The results showed that the greater the reducing agent amount used in the synthesis, the more compact the three-dimensional structure, the smaller the pores and specific surface area, and the lower the number of oxygenated sites. The pH of the zero charge point (pH ZCP) ranged between 2 and 2.37, indicating that the material must efficiently adsorb cationic dyes at neutral pH. Adsorption studies for the cationic dye safranin showed materials capable of adsorbing the dye quickly, with a kinetic equilibrium time of only 10 min, and a high adsorption capacity (937,841 mg g−1), in the equilibrium isotherm studies. The changes in the surface area and the compaction of the structure directly influence intraparticle diffusion and adsorption mechanisms. In addition, the materials did not present significant toxicity in D. melanogaster fly, indicating the absence of immediate toxicological risk in a situation of possible contamination. [Display omitted] • Materials with different degrees of oxidation were obtained in a one-step route. • The route is eco-friendly and produces materials with a cohesive structure. • None of the materials showed toxicity to Drosophila melanogaster. • One 3D-rGO material had an adsorptive capacity of 937.841 mg g−1 for safranin. • Another 3D-rGO material was able to remove 100% of safranin in just 10 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Umberto Eco is the author of several theoretical texts that are fundamental for understanding contemporary art work. In 1980, he had his first experience as a novelist with the publication of The name of the rose, which was followed by six other novels. In this paper, we will focus on Eco's fifth novel, entitled The mysterious flame of queen Loana (2005), an edition that is full of illustrative material and a mixture of documents that refer to the years 1930-40, which present an overview of Italy at that time. The protagonist, a bibliophile who is called by his nickname, Yambo, loses personal memory, but keeps the bookish one intact. To try to retrieve it, he returns to his family's old house, located in Solara, in the mountains of Piedmont, where he ends up finding objects and information that relate to his youth - Fascism and World War II in Italy. Thus, our goal will be to verify how the presence of these elements results in a literary text that is able to discuss the relationship between individual memory and collective memory, as well as the constitution of individual and national Italian identities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a multiple-model solution to the problem of controlling an air heating fan subject to faults. These faults are modeled by means of an abnormal unknown airflow input rate which the nominal controller is not designed for. Moreover, the average temperature of the air flowing through the system, which can be seen as an offset on the corresponding dynamics, is (slowly) time-varying and highly dependent on the ambient temperature. The fault-tolerant control (FTC) method adopted makes use of set-valued observers (SVOs) to invalidate possible models of the system. Unlike classical fault detection, this approach does not rely on residuals to detect abnormal system operation. This fact allows to reduce the conservatism of the solution and enables a straightforward design from the faulty and nominal models of the plant. Moreover, the absolute distinguishability concept is used to derive input signals that bolster the detection of faults. Although SVOs require heavy real-time calculations that hinder its implementability in systems with low computational power, it is shown that the architecture of the FTC strategy proposed is highly parallelizable and, thus, may take advantage of standard multi-core processing units. Experimental results are presented. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The training models in the context of the nature-based sports have suffered some paradigm shifts in particular with the recent regulation of sports coaching profession in Portugal. In this research, we studied the self-perception of mountain sports coaches (climbing and canyoning) and nautical sports (surfing and kayaking). The group of participants consisted of 89 individuals (66 Males / 23 Females). The ages of the subjects characterized by an average of 24.82 ± 4,919 (min = 19 / max = 41). We used a questionnaire to study the self-perception of Grade I of coaches in relation to professional jurisdiction under Benchmarks General Education, of National Program Coach Education, of the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth. From the results it was concluded that there are significant differences in selfperception of professional skills associated with the dimensions of "Knowledge" and "Knowledge-do" between the two groups of respondents coaches, with higher prevalence in the group of nautical sports. In the dimension of "Knowledge-be" there were no significant differences being identified that these coaches think they possess better skills in the areas of safety and teaching modalities, enhancing welfare of conduct in their professional practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The clash involving capital and peasantry for the control of the means and modes of production is called Agrarian Issue. The capital seeks to subordinate the peasantry through the expropriation of the land, while the peasantry develops strategies to face this maneuvers form the capital and to maintain its autonomy and protagonist role. The purpose was to promote an analysis of how the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT's) may contribute to increase the social capital stocking of the peasantry and promote is empowerment and autonomy. The literature review allowed us to establish the public policy of access and use of technology as an effective channel to promote social inclusion and the peasant way of doing agriculture. It enabled us to comprehend that, even though the peasantry is partially included in the ICT's, the reality shows that this level of inclusion is maintained in a place that does not empower and also does not allows the emancipation of the peasantry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of prorenin/(pro)renin receptor activation on luteal progesterone (P4) secretion. Our hypothesis was that the nonproteolytic activation of (pro)renin receptor [P(RR)] is part of the regulatory mechanism responsible for corpus luteum (CL) function. In the first three experiments, prorenin was found to stimulate the production of P4, which is not inhibited by an angiotensin receptor antagonist (saralasin), but rather by a renin/prorenin inhibitor (aliskiren), a MAPK1/3 inhibitor (PD325901) or an EGFR inhibitor (AG1478), which are evidence of nonproteolytic activation of prorenin. Moreover, prorenin induced phosphorylation of MAPK1/3 in luteal cells. Following these in vitro experiments, a sequence of in vivo experiments was performed demonstrating that the intrafollicular injection of aliskiren in preovulatory follicles impaired P4 secretion in cows that ovulated. Furthermore, all profibrotic genes studied were present in the CL and TGFB1 and FN1 mRNA were upregulated from day 5–10 post-ovulation. During luteolysis, REN was downregulated at 48 h, whereas TGFB1 and SERPINE1 were dramatically upregulated in luteal tissue at 12 h after PGF. In summary, these data are evidence that nonproteolytic activation of (P)RR is involved in luteal function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the mRNA expression and protein localization of Grb10 gene in bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) from different follicle sizes. Firstly, it was investigated the mRNA expression to correlate with maturation rates. COCs from follicles at 1-3, 4-6, 6-8 and >8mm were used to evaluate Grb10 gene expression by qRT-PCR assay and nuclear maturation rates. It was observed that more competent oocytes (from follicles at 6-8 and >8mm; P<0.05), had lower Grb10 mRNA expression levels when compared to the oocytes from follicles at 1-3 and 4-6mm (P<0.05). After it was performed an immunofluorescence analysis in COCs from different follicle sizes (1-3, 4-6, 6-8 and >8mm) to investigate Grb10 protein localization. Samples were incubated with primary antibody: Polyclonal rabbit anti-Grb10 (1:100). Primary antibody was detected using goat anti-rabbit IgG antibody conjugated with Alexa Fluor 488 (1:500). Positive fluorescence signal was detected in all analyzed samples but less evident in COCs from largest follicles. These results characterized Grb10 gene in bovine COC and provide evidences for its involvement during oocyte molecular maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY This article introduces a new method for model falsification using set-valued observers, which can be applied to a class of discrete linear time-invariant dynamic systems with time-varying model uncertainties. In comparison with previous results, the main advantages of this approach are as follows: The computation of the convex hull of the set-valued estimates of the state can be avoided under certain circumstances; to guarantee convergence of the set-valued estimates of the state, the required number of previous steps is at most as large as the number of states of the nominal plant; and it provides a straightforward nonconservative method to falsify uncertain models of dynamic systems, including open-loop unstable plants. The results obtained are illustrated in simulation, emphasizing the advantages and shortcomings of the suggested method. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY A multiple-model adaptive control methodology is proposed that is able to provide stability and performance guarantees, for uncertain linear parameter-varying plants. The identification problem is addressed by taking advantage of recent advances in model falsification using set-valued observers (SVOs). These SVOs provide set-valued estimates of the state of the system, according to its dynamic model. If such estimate is the empty set, the underlying dynamic model is invalidated, and a different controller is connected to the loop. The behavior of the proposed control algorithm is demonstrated in simulation, by resorting to a mass-spring-dashpot system. As a caveat, the computational burden associated with the SVOs can be prohibitive under some circumstances. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to promote the micronization of imiquimod, a poorly water-soluble immunostimulant drug, using the supercritical antisolvent (SAS) process. The effect of temperature, pressure and drug concentration on drug particle formation, size and yield was evaluated. Increasing pressure tends to increase size and decrease yield. Increasing concentration results in raises in size and yield. Increasing temperature leads to size reduction and increase in yield. The combination of process variables shows that increase in pressure and concentration leads to an increase in size and a reduction in yield, and that pressure and temperature combined, as well as the combination of temperature and concentration, leads to reduction in size and yield. The micronization process was not capable of promoting improvement in drug dissolution rate or limit. However, a significant gain was observed in data reproducibility, which can contribute considerably to the quality control of formulations containing imiquimod. [Display omitted] • Imiquimod is a poorly water soluble drug consisting of large particles. • Drug size was significantly reduced by supercritical antisolvent processing. • Average drug size reduction up to 15 times was achieved. • Drug concentration was an important factor in imiquimod size reduction. • A significant increase in the reproducibility of drug dissolution was noticed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The problem of attitude and rate gyro bias estimation is addressed by resorting to measurements acquired from rate gyros and vector observations. A Set-Valued Observer (SVO) is proposed that has no singularities and that, for any initial conditions, provides a bounding set with guarantees of containing the actual (unknown) rotation matrix. The sensor readings are assumed to be corrupted by bounded measurement noise and constant gyro bias. Conditions for the boundedness of the estimated sets are established and implementation details are discussed. The feasibility of the technique is demonstrated in simulation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A novel fault detection and isolation (FDI) method using set-valued observers (SVOs), for uncertain linear parameter-varying (LPV) systems, is introduced. The proposed method relies on SVO-based model invalidation to discard models incompatible with measured data. When compared to the most common strategies in the literature, the suggested approach: (i) under suitable conditions, guarantees false alarms are avoided; (ii) unlike residual-based architectures, does not require the computation of thresholds to declare faults; (iii) has applicability to a wide class of plants. The performance of the proposed approach is assessed in simulation, using the full nonlinear model of a fixed-wing aircraft longitudinal dynamics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper proposes an architecture referred to as Stability Overlay (SO) for adaptive control of a class of nonlinear time-varying plants. The SO can be implemented in parallel with a wide range of “performance-based” adaptive control laws, i.e., adaptive control laws that seek to improve closed-loop performance, but may be susceptible to instability in the presence of unaccounted model uncertainty. In this architecture, the performance-based adaptive control law designates candidate controllers based on performance considerations, while the SO supervises this selection based upon online robust stability considerations. A particular selection of a performance-based adaptive control law is not specified. Rather, this selection can be from a wide range of adaptive control schemes. This paper provides stability proofs for the SO architecture and presents a simulation that illustrates the applicability of the proposed method. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In the present work, the technical and economical analysis of extraction and isolation of indole alkaloids from Tabernaemontana catharinensis is presented. The extraction was carried out using supercritical CO2 as solvent and ethanol as cosolvent (5%, v/v). The global yield isotherms were determined at 35 and 45°C for pressures of 150–350bar. The mass transfer rate for the constant extraction rate period (CER), the duration of the CER period, and the mass ratio of solute in the fluid phase at the bed outlet were calculated. The extraction curves were adjusted by Crank, Goto et al. and Esquível et al. models. The economical analysis was carried out considering that the cost of manufacturing can be obtained in terms of the costs of investment, operational labor, raw material, waste treatment and utilities. The higher global yields were obtained at 350bar (1.30×10−2 and 1.54×10−2 kg/kg, at temperatures of 35 and 45°C, respectively). The Goto''s model was able to quantitatively describe the experimental data. The cost of manufacturing the extracts obtained at 350bar, 45°C, using 5% (v/v) of ethanol was US$ 79.35kg−1 of extract. Using previous experimental data obtained at 300bar, 55°C, using 10% of ethanol (v/v), the cost of manufacturing for the fractionation process to obtain a rich alkaloidal fraction (AF) was US$ 440.31kg−1 of alkaloids. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work, a review of the Brazilian scientific production in the past 10 years in the field of supercritical fluid is presented. The historical facts associated with the previous edition of the Brazilian Meeting on Supercritical Fluids are discussed. Because of the importance of the other South America countries contribution to the filed, a summary of the research published in the past 5 years by all South America countries is also presented. In the past 5 years (1999–2003) 82 papers from South American countries were published in journals indexed in the Web of Science data base. Of these, 26 papers were related to the use of supercritical fluids as an analytical tool. Supercritical extraction from a variety of vegetable raw material contributed with 38 papers and the petroleum industry added 2 papers to the field. Reactions contributed with 3 publications while thermodynamics and fundamental studies were responsible for 13 publications. The Brazilian contribution represented 53–84% of the publications in the above areas. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In spite of the scientific knowledge and the large availability of raw materials having sufficient quality and cost, there is no industrial supercritical fluid extraction unit in any of the South American countries. Supercritical fluid extraction is associated with high investment costs; nowadays, an easy method for technical–economical evaluation of supercritical fluid process is not available. Thus, a simple method to estimate the cost of manufacturing of extracts by supercritical fluid technology is presented. The manufacturing costs of clove bud oil and ginger oleoresin were estimated using the procedure proposed. The production of clove bud oil was economically feasible at the quoted extraction condition; its manufacturing cost approximately a fourth of the market price. The manufacturing cost of ginger oleoresin was close to its selling price at the extraction condition considered. This is mainly due to the strong influence of the investment on the cost of manufacturing ginger extracts by supercritical extraction due to the requirement of long extraction times. Nonetheless, some other characteristics of the ginger oleoresin such as the quantity and the availability of gingerols and shogaols should be considered. Additionally, further process parameter studies directed to the increase of the extraction rates should be considered before disregarding the supercritical fluid extraction as a viable process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Proposes a control algorithm for the scrollic gripper robot based on intrinsic sensory information. Discussion on the theoretical background to support the design and functioning of the gripper; Details on the active sensing control strategy used in the design of the proposed control algorithm; Information on the gripper mechanism and experimental setup.

This work aims to demonstrate the benefits and limitations of an on-board Guidance for reusable launch vehicles, as well as to tradeoff different Model Predictive Control (MPC)-based Guidance and Control (G&C) architectures, exploiting, in particular, recent advances on successive convexification algorithms for optimization problems. Leading space agencies and private companies are investing on the development of reusable space launchers to reduce the cost to access the space. Indeed, that cost is one of the major deterrents in space exploration and space utilization. Reusability is, therefore, the unanimous solution to lower costs, and get a reliable and fast space access. Among many technological enhancements, the guidance, navigation, and control plays a crucial role: precise pinpoint landing capabilities or mid-air recovery, in fact, are mandatory. Indeed, the capability for generating re-optimized guidance trajectories on-board in real-time based on current flight conditions promises to improve the system performance, allows for fault tolerance capabilities, and reduces mission preparation costs. The work focuses especially on the implementation of a successive convexification Model Predictive Control guidance algorithm which solves the 6 Degree-of-Freedom (DoF) Powered Descent Guidance problem (PDG). The novelty of that work is applying a model predictive-based technique to a complex dynamic environment, trading off different solutions to the problem and relying on results obtained by using an industrial simulation framework. The robustness of the proposed approach is tested in several operative scenarios and the feasibility of real-time implementation is studied. For what concerns the trajectory optimization routine, the formulation of the problem, while initially being non-convex, is convexified. This is performed by implementing a successive convexification algorithm, which obtains a sub-optimal solution of the original problem in a fraction of the time required by a global optimizer, by solving a Second Order Cone Programming (SOCP) problem. This method allows coping with different kinds of dynamics nonlinearities, as well as cost functions and constraints. By presenting the approach and critically discussing the obtained results, the work provides an overview of the different methodologies available in the literature and assesses the limits of those approaches when applied to highly nonlinear scenarios, with large dispersions of uncertain parameters, as it is the case of reusable launch vehicles. • Formulation landing problem in successive convexification framework. • Assessing a state-triggered constraint based on dynamic pressure. • Assessing two Model Predictive Control-based architectures in realistic scenarios. • Underlining the critical aspects of the on-board Guidance & Control solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the influence of chemical compositions of organoclays on the thermal stability and fire behavior of PLA nanocomposites, 2, 6 and 8 wt% of single and hybrid Brazilian organically-modified montmorillonites (OMt), containing ammonium and phosphonium based surfactant - di-(hydrogenated tallow) dimethyl ammonium chloride (HTA), trihexyl tetradecyl phosphonium chloride (TDP), di(alkyl ester) dimethyl ammonium chloride (EA) and ethoxylated tallow amine (ETA) - were added to PLA using a melt-compounding process. It was noticed that the addition of OMt and melt-compounding contributed to a decrease of the initial decomposition temperature and average molecular mass of PLA, assessed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC), respectively. Moreover, PLA nanocomposites with single OMt (TDP and HTA) showed lower thermal stability than those with hybrid OMt. PLA nanocomposites with hybrid OMt containing EA and ETA displayed higher fire-reaction performance under cone calorimeter test. Comparing with neat PLA, these nanocomposites registered a peak heat release rate (pHRR) reduction of 29% and 38%, and a fire index grow rate (FIGRA) reduction of 32% and 37%, respectively, as well as the absence of melt dripping during combustion. The enhancement of the fire-reaction behavior was related to the nanoparticles high degree of dispersion and compatibility between PLA and nanoparticles, characterized in a previous work (Alves et al., 2019), which contributed to the formation of an effective protective layer on the condensed phase during combustion. • PLA nanocomposites filled with single and hybrid organoclays. • Influence of OMt chemical composition on thermal and fire performance of PLA. • PLA fire behavior improved by compatible HOMt containing ethoxylated tallow amine. • Enhanced protective barrier by char formation and reaction of hydroxyl-carboxyl groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumer demand for natural, chemical-free products has grown. Food industry residues, like coffee pulp, rich in caffeine, chlorogenic acid and phenolic compounds, offer potential for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Therefore, the objective of this work was to develop a phytocosmetic only with natural products containing coffee pulp extract as active pharmaceutical ingredient with antioxidant, antimicrobial and healing activity. Eight samples from Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora Pierre were analyzed for caffeine, chlorogenic acid, phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids, cytotoxicity, antibacterial activity, and healing potential. The Robusta IAC—extract had the greatest prominence with 192.92 μg/mL of chlorogenic acid, 58.98 ± 2.88 mg GAE/g sample in the FRAP test, 79.53 ± 5.61 mg GAE/g sample in the test of total phenolics, was not cytotoxic, and MIC 3 mg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus. This extract was incorporated into a stable formulation and preferred by 88% of volunteers. At last, a scratch assay exhibited the formulation promoted cell migration after 24 h, therefore, increased scratch retraction. In this way, it was possible to develop a phytocosmetic with the coffee pulp that showed desirable antioxidant, antimicrobial and healing properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of adding different Brazilian organoclays, containing di-(hydrogenated tallow) dimethyl ammonium chloride (HTA), trihexyl tetradecyl phosphonium chloride (TDP), di(alkyl ester) dimethyl ammonium chloride (EA) and ethoxylated tallow amine (ETA), on the structure and properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nanocomposites, are presented. Single and hybrid organo-modified montmorillonites (OMt and HOMt, respectively) were used to prepare nanocomposites by melt mixing in a twin screw extruder. The structural and morphological properties of the nanocomposites were evaluated using wide-angle X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The thermal behavior was studied by differential scanning calorimetry. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to investigate the interactions between the different organoclays and PLA. Additionally, commercial organoclays (Cloisite 30B and Cloisite 20A) were used and compared with the Brazilian organoclays. It was verified that the structure and properties of the nanocomposites highly depended on chemical composition. Comparatively, HOMt containing EA and ETA presented better compatibility with PLA, showing the best level of clay dispersion. Differential scanning calorimetry showed a dependence on the nanocomposite thermal behavior with the dispersion level of the organoclays. In general, the presence of OMt and HOMt reduced the glass transition temperature of PLA and its cold crystallization temperature, and increased its crystallinity, which was related to an effective heterogeneous crystal nucleation promoted by the organoclay. Unlabelled Image • Effect of different organic compounds on PLA-OMt nanocomposite properties • Influence of single and hybrid organic compounds on OMt dispersion degree into PLA • Interaction parameters of Flory-Huggins on the prediction of PLA-OMt compatibility • PLA crystallinity behavior and nucleation effect due to single and hydrid OMt [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the antimicrobial, antioxidant and toxicity activity of essential oils (EOs) of Hymenaea courbaril L. var. courbaril bark and Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels leaves. The EOs were extracted by hydrodistillation and chemically characterized by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The ABTS and DPPH assay were used to evaluate antioxidant activity. For the toxicity assay, lethality was evaluated against Artemia salina Leach. For the antimicrobial assay, the method of Disc Diffusion and Dilution in Broth was applied to obtain the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal. The major constituent of the EO of H. courbaril was ß-ocimene (23.33%) and the EO of S. cumini was isocaryophyllene (18.01%). Both OE showed relevant antioxidant activity and low toxicity against Artemia salina. The EOs showed bactericidal activity against E. coli, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, Salmonella sp., B. cereus and P. mirabilis. The results obtained are encouraged by the potential use of the OE's studied in the control and fight of pathogenic microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a case of a patient with necrotizing infection of the conjunctiva and Tenon's capsule caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, a rare and atypical ophthalmologic condition. A 50-years-old male patient with acute red-eye, purulent discharge, and pain diagnosed with post-septal cellulitis presented with a yellowish and dense membrane covering the ocular surface with necrotic Tenon's capsule. Patient was hospitalized, and intravenous antibiotics were initiated (ceftriaxone and clindamycin). Topical antibiotics and corticosteroids were also administered, and the infection was eradicated in 2 weeks. Ancillary exams excluded rheumatologic involvement. Conjunctival culture confirmed Streptococcus pyogenes growth. Tenon's biopsy revealed unspecific acute inflammatory necrosis. This is an uncommon condition in daily ophthalmological clinic. Literature review reported 3 cases associated with previous ocular surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Proanthocyanidin was used as covalent crosslinking agent of sericin/alginate blend. • PA-crosslinked sericin/alginate was used as matrix for ketoprofen extended release. • The obtained formulations presented gastro-resistant characteristic. • The particle with the lowest amount of PA showed ketoprofen extended release. • A complex release mechanism was associated to ketoprofen release. Sericin and alginate blend has shown good results for obtaining sustained release dosage forms. In the case of ketoprofen, it was necessary to resort to the use of the proanthocyanidin (PA) as crosslinking agent in order to achieve this same goal. Thus, various formulations were developed by adding different initial amounts of PA to the sericin and alginate blend with incorporated ketoprofen. The best results for drug loading, entrapment efficiency and release prolongation were obtained for the particle with the lowest amount of PA (0.5%). Mathematical modeling has indicated that different mechanisms may be involved in drug release, especially a complex release mechanism, with polymer dissolution and polymer chain relaxation allowing drug release. Particles characterization confirmed the incorporation of ketoprofen into the sericin, alginate and proanthocyanidin blend. It was verified that there was no interaction between them and there were no major changes in the physicochemical properties of the drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]