scholarly journals Roman Water Transport: Pressure Lines

Water ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. 28
Author(s):  
Paul M. Kessener
Keyword(s):  
Water Transport ◽  
Common Knowledge ◽  
Construction Materials ◽  
Minor Importance ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Public And Private ◽  
Technical Problems ◽  
Pax Romana ◽  
And Function ◽  
Political Turmoil

In Roman times long distance water transport was realized by means of aqueducts. Water was conveyed in mortared open channels with a downward slope from spring to destination. Also wooden channels and clay pipelines were applied. The Aqua Appia, the oldest aqueduct of Rome, was constructed in the third Century BCE. During the Pax Romana (second Century CE), a time of little political turmoil, prosperity greatly increased, almost every town acquiring one or more aqueducts to meet the rising demand from the growth of population, the increasing number of public and private bath buildings, and the higher luxury level in general. Until today over 1600 aqueducts have been described, Gallia (France) alone counting more than 300. Whenever a valley was judged to be too wide or too deep to be crossed by a bridge, pressure lines known as ‘inverted siphons’ or simply ‘siphons’ were employed. These closed conduits transported water across a valley according the principle of communicating vessels. About 80 classical siphons are presently known with one out of twenty aqueducts being equipped with a siphon. After an introductory note about aqueducts in general, this report treats the ancient pressure conduit systems with the technical problems encountered in design and function, the techniques that the ancient engineers applied to cope with these problems, and the texts of the Roman author Vitruvius on the subject. Reviewers noted that the report is rather long, and it is. Yet to understand the difficulties that the engineers of those days encountered in view of the materials available for their siphons (stone, ceramics, lead), many a hydraulic aspect will be discussed. Aspects that for the modern hydraulic engineer may be common knowledge and of minor importance when constructing pressure lines, in view of modern construction materials. It was different in Vitruvius’s days.

scholarly journals Rootstocks Overexpressing StNPR1 and StDREB1 Improve Osmotic Stress Tolerance of Wild-Type Scion in Transgrafted Tobacco Plants

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (16) ◽  
pp. 8398
Author(s):  
Yasmine S. Hezema ◽  
Mukund R. Shukla ◽  
Alok Goel ◽  
Murali M. Ayyanath ◽  
Sherif M. Sherif ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Osmotic Stress ◽  
Transgenic Tobacco ◽  
Physiological Status ◽  
Wild Type ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Graft Union ◽  
Tobacco Plants ◽  
Osmotic Stress Tolerance ◽  
And Function ◽  
Gene Expression Levels

In grafted plants, the movement of long-distance signals from rootstocks can modulate the development and function of the scion. To understand the mechanisms by which tolerant rootstocks improve scion responses to osmotic stress (OS) conditions, mRNA transport of osmotic responsive genes (ORGs) was evaluated in a tomato/potato heterograft system. In this system, Solanum tuberosum was used as a rootstock and Solanum lycopersicum as a scion. We detected changes in the gene expression levels of 13 out of the 21 ORGs tested in the osmotically stressed plants; of these, only NPR1 transcripts were transported across the graft union under both normal and OS conditions. Importantly, OS increased the abundance of StNPR1 transcripts in the tomato scion. To examine mRNA mobility in transgrafted plants, StNPR1 and StDREB1 genes representing the mobile and non-mobile transcripts, respectively, were overexpressed in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum). The evaluation of transgenic tobacco plants indicated that overexpression of these genes enhanced the growth and improved the physiological status of transgenic plants growing under OS conditions induced by NaCl, mannitol and polyethylene glycol (PEG). We also found that transgenic tobacco rootstocks increased the OS tolerance of the WT-scion. Indeed, WT scions on transgenic rootstocks had higher ORGs transcript levels than their counterparts on non-transgenic rootstocks. However, neither StNPR1 nor StDREB1 transcripts were transported from the transgenic rootstock to the wild-type (WT) tobacco scion, suggesting that other long-distance signals downstream these transgenes could have moved across the graft union leading to OS tolerance. Overall, our results signify the importance of StNPR1 and StDREB1 as two anticipated candidates for the development of stress-resilient crops through transgrafting technology.

scholarly journals Lower leg muscle structure and function are altered in long-distance runners with medial tibial stress syndrome: a case control study

2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Joshua Mattock ◽  
Julie R. Steele ◽  
Karen J. Mickle
Keyword(s):  
Lower Leg ◽  
Structure And Function ◽  
Flexor Hallucis Longus ◽  
Plantar Flexor ◽  
Distance Runners ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Muscle Structure ◽  
Leg Muscle ◽  
And Function

Abstract Background Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) is a common lower leg injury experienced by runners. Although numerous risk factors are reported in the literature, many are non-modifiable and management of the injury remains difficult. Lower leg muscle structure and function are modifiable characteristics that influence tibial loading during foot-ground contact. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether long-distance runners with MTSS displayed differences in in vivo lower leg muscle structure and function than matched asymptomatic runners. Methods Lower leg structure was assessed using ultrasound and a measure of lower leg circumference to quantify muscle cross-sectional area, thickness and lean lower leg girth. Lower leg function was assessed using a hand-held dynamometer to quantify maximal voluntary isometric contraction strength and a single leg heel raise protocol was used to measure ankle plantar flexor endurance. Outcome variables were compared between the limbs of long-distance runners suffering MTSS (n = 20) and matched asymptomatic controls (n = 20). Means, standard deviations, 95 % confidence intervals, mean differences and Cohen’s d values were calculated for each variable for the MTSS symptomatic and control limbs. Results MTSS symptomatic limbs displayed a significantly smaller flexor hallucis longus cross-sectional area, a smaller soleus thickness but a larger lateral gastrocnemius thickness than the control limbs. However, there was no statistical difference in lean lower leg girth. Compared to the matched control limbs, MTSS symptomatic limbs displayed deficits in maximal voluntary isometric contraction strength of the flexor hallucis longus, soleus, tibialis anterior and peroneal muscles, and reduced ankle plantar flexor endurance capacity. Conclusions Differences in lower leg muscle structure and function likely render MTSS symptomatic individuals less able to withstand the negative tibial bending moment generated during midstance, potentially contributing to the development of MTSS. The clinical implications of these findings suggest that rehabilitation protocols for MTSS symptomatic individuals should aim to improve strength of the flexor hallucis longus, soleus, tibialis anterior and peroneal muscles along with ankle plantar flexor endurance. However, the cross-sectional study design prevents us determining whether between group differences were a cause or effect of MTSS. Therefore, future prospective studies are required to substantiate the study findings.

scholarly journals Long-Distance Water Transport in Aquatic Plants

1993 ◽  
Vol 103 (4) ◽  
pp. 1369-1375 ◽  
Author(s):  
O. Pedersen
Keyword(s):  
Water Transport ◽  
Aquatic Plants ◽  
Long Distance

scholarly journals Tensegrity Informed Observations in Human Cadaveric Studies - A Clinical Anatomists Perspective

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
Author(s):  
John Sharkey
Keyword(s):  
Construction Materials ◽  
Human Movement ◽  
Human Anatomy ◽  
Anatomical Location ◽  
Human Form ◽  
Form And Function ◽  
Mechanical Models ◽  
Functional Operation ◽  
And Function ◽  
Pinned Joints

19th century anatomy took a systematic, uniform approach as efforts were made to give each anatomical structure a precise description. Concerning red contractile proteins observed within a gastor, descriptive words provided little or no information concerning the anatomy or physiology of such structures. Latin names were provided describing shape (i.e. trapezius), size (i.e. maximus), number (i.e. quadriceps) and anatomical location (i.e. posterior) but did little to inform learners concerning a global view of human form and function. Such a reductionist view concerning muscles was delineated by their assumed tendonous origin/insertion attachment to bone. Bespoke human dissections performed on embalmed cadavers, embracing a (bio)tensegrity focus, provides innovative insights concerning the topics of human anatomy, form and function. Such dissection shifts attention away from the solely mechanistic observations made since the time of Erasistratus (ca. 290 BC) and Giovanni Alfonso Borelli (1608-1679) which led to nebulous interpretations and isolated “parts”. Long held concepts such as muscle origins and insertions are not supported as factual evidenced by biotensegrity focused dissections. Borelli’s explanations of human movement, based on man-made objects, included wheels, clocks, watches and two-bar pinned joints. Mechanical models require construction materials such as 1st, 2nd and 3rd class levers, pulley systems with pins and screws for functional operation. Embryology does not require surgical intervention to attach an upper or lower limb, a liver, spleen or blood vessel. The embryo grows and develops such structures in a temporal sequalae orchestrated by the forces and the environment wherein it emerges. To-date it has been averred that the human body is a combination of ‘parts’ comprising of levers and pinned-joints. This observational-based report offers anatomically accurate cadaveric imagery supporting a paradigm shift in human anatomy moving towards a model dependent reality of continuity and wholeness, “Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st century”.

scholarly journals Assessing Terrorism Threats to New Zealand: The role of the Combined Threat Assessment Group

2020 ◽  
Vol 2 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Keyword(s):  
Public Service ◽  
Threat Assessment ◽  
Private Institutions ◽  
Public And Private ◽  
Threat Level ◽  
Terrorism Threat ◽  
And Function ◽  
First Time ◽  
Threat Assessments

This article has been produced by the Combined Threat Assessment Group (CTAG). It provides in detail, and publicly for the first time, a genuinely informed explanation for the origins and function of CTAG. It covers the nature and challenge of threat assessment, the methodology applied as well various iterations of the threat assessments that are undertaken. This leads on to an explanation of how New Zealand’s National Terrorism Threat Level is set. Overall, this article provides an informative and well-rounded explanation of the components that comprise the National Terrorism Threat Level and makes for essential reading for wider public service, academic, and security conscious public and private institutions across the country.

A Review on Role of Macro and Micro Banking Environment on Non-Performing Assets Management

2019 ◽  
pp. 281-294
Author(s):  
Biswajit Prasad Chhatoi ◽  
Sharada Prasad Sahoo
Keyword(s):  
Critical Role ◽  
Banking System ◽  
Financial Assets ◽  
Policy Changes ◽  
Public And Private ◽  
Private Banks ◽  
Specific Factors ◽  
And Function ◽  
Asset Creation

In a self-resilient economy, banking system assumes importance in imparting momentum to economic growth and prosperity through mobilization of financial assets. Performance of banks, irrespective of their nature and function, is germane to their asset creation and maintenance capacity. In a neo-liberal regime, radical policy changes have crept into loan mechanism, thereby subjecting the banks to efficiently recover the loans, which is a vital asset for any banking firm. In this context, the authors through intensive review of literature identified micro and macro banking factors responsible for productive NPA management. The macro banking factors refer to the economic environment whereas the micro banking factors refer to the bank and branch-specific factors. The authors identified the critical role of organizational structure, involvement of employees, and organizational efficiency in driving prudent NPA management. The authors have found that the efficiency in managing NPAs differ in public and private banks, which is attributed to involvement of employees.

Form and Function in Cells of the Brain

The Neuron ◽  
2015 ◽  
pp. 23-38
Author(s):  
Irwin B. Levitan ◽  
Leonard K. Kaczmarek
Keyword(s):  
Axonal Transport ◽  
Molecular Motors ◽  
Critical Role ◽  
Neuronal Cell ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Neuronal Cell Body ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Form And Function ◽  
And Function ◽  
The Brain

This chapter examines unique mechanisms that the neuron has evolved to establish and maintain the form required for its specialized signaling functions. Unlike some other organs, the brain contains a variety of cell types including several classes of glial cells, which play a critical role in the formation of the myelin sheath around axons and may be involved in immune responses, synaptic transmission, and long-distance calcium signaling in the brain. Neurons share many features in common with other cells (including glia), but they are distinguished by their highly asymmetrical shapes. The neuronal cytoskeleton is essential for establishing this cell shape during development and for maintaining it in adulthood. The process of axonal transport moves vesicles and other organelles to regions remote from the neuronal cell body. Proteins such as kinesin and dynein, called molecular motors, make use of the energy released by hydrolysis of ATP to drive axonal transport.

Natural Compounds from Plant Waste for Textile Processing: Construction and Evaluation of Dyeing and Finishing with Extracting Solution of Tea-Stalk and Apocynum Halm

2015 ◽  
Vol 671 ◽  
pp. 115-120 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ji Xian Gong ◽  
Yan Fei Ren ◽  
Hui Qin Li ◽  
Zheng Li ◽  
Qiu Jin Li ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Inhibitory Effect ◽  
Uv Protection ◽  
Fastness Properties ◽  
Textile Processing ◽  
Protection Level ◽  
Technical Problems ◽  
Textile Dyeing ◽  
Plant Waste ◽  
And Function

Nature provides readyanswers to scientific and technical problems and inspires us with a series of technologicalinnovations. The distribution of pigment in vivo inspired theprocess of fabric finishing. Naturalcompounds from plant waste was employed for textile processing in thisinvestigation and the method of dyeing and finishing simultaneous wasconstructed. Capacity and function of the process was evaluated through colour yield and fastness, antifungalactivity and UV –protection performance. Tawny colour was obtained in theprotein fabrics processed with the extracting solution of tea-stalk and Apocynum halm. The fastness properties of both tea and Apocynum dyed samplesare quite satisfactory for practical textile dyeing purposes, especially thewool fabrics processed with tea-stalk extracting solution. And the protein fabric samples treated with tea and Apocynum waste solutionshowed good inhibitory effect (>50%) against E.coli and S.aureus. UV protection level ofprotein fabrics were increased with the treatment by extracting solution of tea-stalkand Apocynum halm.

scholarly journals The Potyviridae Cylindrical Inclusion Helicase: A Key Multipartner and Multifunctional Protein

2014 ◽  
Vol 27 (3) ◽  
pp. 215-226 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. Sorel ◽  
J. A. Garcia ◽  
S. German-Retana
Keyword(s):  
Reverse Genetics ◽  
Plant Viruses ◽  
Cylindrical Inclusion ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Multifunctional Protein ◽  
Protein Partners ◽  
Cylindrical Inclusions ◽  
Infected Cells ◽  
And Function ◽  
Cellular Compartments

A unique feature shared by all plant viruses of the Potyviridae family is the induction of characteristic pinwheel-shaped inclusion bodies in the cytoplasm of infected cells. These cylindrical inclusions are composed of the viral-encoded cylindrical inclusion helicase (CI protein). Its helicase activity was characterized and its involvement in replication demonstrated through different reverse genetics approaches. In addition to replication, the CI protein is also involved in cell-to-cell and long-distance movements, possibly through interactions with the recently discovered viral P3N-PIPO protein. Studies over the past two decades demonstrate that the CI protein is present in several cellular compartments interacting with viral and plant protein partners likely involved in its various roles in different steps of viral infection. Furthermore, the CI protein acts as an avirulence factor in gene-for-gene interactions with dominant-resistance host genes and as a recessive-resistance overcoming factor. Although a significant amount of data concerning the potential functions and subcellular localization of this protein has been published, no synthetic review is available on this important multifunctional protein. In this review, we compile and integrate all information relevant to the current understanding of this viral protein structure and function and present a mode of action for CI, combining replication and movement.

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