bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fenugreek seed extract ameliorates cognitive deficits in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Kodumuri Praveen K. , Thomas Christofer , Jetti Raghu , Pandey Anil Kumar
Published: July 2019

Background

Natural medicinal plants have been the focus of current research for developing neuroprotective agents to be used in the diabetes-linked cognitive dysfunction. Trigonella foenum-graecum seeds (known as fenugreek, methi in Hindi), is a well-known traditional medicinal herb and possesses anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose

This study was undertaken to explore the ameliorative effects of T. foenum-graecum seed extract on diabetes-induced cognitive dysfunction.

Methods

Experimental diabetes was induced by administering a single dose of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg) through intraperitoneal dose. Cognitive function was assessed using a T-maze and the Morris water maze. Lipid peroxidation levels and oxidative stress in the hippocampus was measured. Quantification of hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions was done using cresyl violet stain.

Results

Diabetic rats demonstrated learning and memory impairment, which was evident from poor performance in behavioral tasks, i.e. T-maze and Morris water maze tasks. Learning and memory impairment in diabetic animals is associated with increased blood glucose levels, increased oxidative stress in the hippocampus and decreased number of neurons in the CA1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus. The diabetic rats administered with T. foenum-graecum showed improved performance in behavioral tasks, and these changes were associated with decreased blood glucose levels, decreased oxidative stress in the hippocampus, and decreased neuronal loss from the CA1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus.

Conclusion

In conclusion, administration of T. foenum-graecum seed extract ameliorates diabetes-linked cognitive dysfunction in rats by decreasing blood glucose levels, reducing lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in the hippocampus, and preventing neuronal loss from the hippocampus.
Enhancing Goldreich, Goldwasser and Halevi’s scheme with intersecting lattices
Authors: Sipasseuth Arnaud , Plantard Thomas , Susilo Willy
Published: July 2019

We present a technique to enhance the security of the Goldreich, Goldwasser and Halevi (GGH) scheme.
The security of GGH has practically been broken by lattice reduction techniques.
Those attacks are successful due to the structure of the basis used in the secret key.
In this work, we aim to present a new technique to alleviate this problem by modifying the public key which hides the structure of the corresponding private key.
We intersect the initial lattice with a random one while keeping the initial lattice as our secret key and use the corresponding result of the intersection as the public key.
We show sufficient evidence that this technique will make GGH implementations secure against the aforementioned attacks.
An All Optical OR Gate Using BPSK Technique Inside 2D Photonic Crystals
Authors: Shahmohammadi Bahman , Andalib Alireza
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we are going to design simulate an all optical OR gate based on two-dimensional photonic crystals. The proposed structure was designed based on phase shift keying technique. The working principle of the proposed structure is based on constructive and destructive interference of optical beams. The simulation results shows that the rise and fall times are 0.8 and 0.2 ps, respectively.
The retraction of certain banach right modules associated to a character
Authors: Dashti Mahshid , Renani Sima Soltani
Published: July 2019

Let 𝓐 be a Banach algebra and let 𝓜 be a unital Banach algebra. For a homomorphism Φ from 𝓐 into 𝓜, we consider 𝓜 as a Banach right 𝓐-module and investigate when 𝓜 is a retract of 𝓐 with respect to Φ. We also give characterizations of admitting vector-valued invariant Φ-means in terms of projectivity and injectivity. Finally, we apply these results to abstract Segal algebras.
Hilbert algebras with supremum generated by finite chains
Authors: Gaitán Hernando
Published: July 2019

Based on the work of A. Monteiro, A. Torrens, and D. Buşneag, in this paper we point out that the dual space of Hilbert algebras with supremum generated by chains depends, modulo the dual space of a Hilbert algebra with supremum defined by S. Celani an D. Montangie, exclusively, on the order carried out by the topological space. We use such a characterization to prove that a bounded Hilbert algebra generated by chains is determined by the monoid of its endomorphisms.
A dual Ramsey theorem for finite ordered oriented graphs
Authors: Mašulović Dragan , Pantić Bojana
Published: July 2019

In contrast to the abundance of “direct” Ramsey results for classes of finite structures (such as finite ordered graphs, finite ordered metric spaces and finite posets with a linear extension), in only a handful of cases we have a meaningful dual Ramsey result. In this paper we prove a dual Ramsey theorem for finite ordered oriented graphs. Instead of embeddings, which are crucial for “direct” Ramsey results, we consider a special class of surjective homomorphisms between finite ordered oriented graphs. Since the setting we are interested in involves both structures and morphisms, all our results are spelled out using the reinterpretation of the (dual) Ramsey property in the language of category theory.
On EMV-Semirings
Authors: Borzooei R. A. , Shenavaei M. , Di Nola A. , Zahiri O.
Published: July 2019

The paper deals with an algebraic extension of MV-semirings based on the definition of generalized Boolean algebras. We propose a semiring-theoretic approach to EMV-algebras based on the connections between such algebras and idempotent semirings. We introduce a new algebraic structure, not necessarily with a top element, which is called an EMV-semiring and we get some examples and basic properties of EMV-semiring. We show that every EMV-semiring is an EMV-algebra and every EMV-semiring contains an MV-semiring and an MV-algebra. Then, we study EMV-semiring as a lattice and prove that any EMV-semiring is a distributive lattice. Moreover, we define an EMV-semiring homomorphism and show that the categories of EMV-semirings and the category of EMV-algebras are isomorphic. We also define the concepts of GI
-simple and DLO-semiring and prove that every EMV-semiring is a GI
-simple and a DLO-semiring. Finally, we propose a representation for EMV-semirings, which proves that any EMV-semiring is either an MV-semiring or can be embedded into an MV-semiring as a maximal ideal.
A nonsymmetrical matrix and its factorizations
Authors: Arikan Talha , Kiliç Emrah , Prodinger Helmut
Published: July 2019

We introduce a nonsymmetric matrix defined by q-integers. Explicit formulæ are derived for its LU-decomposition, the inverse matrices L
−1 and U
−1 and its inverse. Nonsymmetric variants of the Filbert and Lilbert matrices come out as consequences of our results for special choices of q and parameters. The approach consists of guessing the relevant quantities and proving them later by traditional means.
On weakly 𝓗-permutable subgroups of finite groups
Authors: Cao Chenchen , Amjid Venus , Zhang Chi
Published: July 2019

Let σ = {σi
∣i ∈ I} be some partition of the set of all primes ℙ, G be a finite group and σ(G) = {σi
∣σi
∩ π(G) ≠ ∅}. G is said to be σ-primary if ∣σ(G)∣ ≤ 1. A subgroup H of G is said to be σ-subnormal in G if there exists a subgroup chain H = H
0 ≤ H
1 ≤ … ≤ Ht
= G such that either H

i−1 is normal in Hi
or Hi
/(H

i−1)
Hi

is σ-primary for all i = 1, …, t. A set 𝓗 of subgroups of G is said to be a complete Hall
σ-set of G if every non-identity member of 𝓗 is a Hall σi
-subgroup of G for some i and 𝓗 contains exactly one Hall σi
-subgroup of G for every σi
∈ σ(G). Let 𝓗 be a complete Hall σ-set of G. A subgroup H of G is said to be 𝓗-permutable if HA = AH for all A ∈ 𝓗. We say that a subgroup H of G is weakly 𝓗-permutable in G if there exists a σ-subnormal subgroup T of G such that G = HT and H ∩ T ≤ H
𝓗, where H
𝓗 is the subgroup of H generated by all those subgroups of H which are 𝓗-permutable.

By using the weakly 𝓗-permutable subgroups, we establish some new criteria for a group G to be σ-soluble and supersoluble, and we also give the conditions under which a normal subgroup of G is hypercyclically embedded.
A geometrical version of Hardy-Rellich type inequalities
Authors: Nasibullin Ramil
Published: July 2019

We obtained a version of Hardy-Rellich type inequality in a domain Ω ∈ ℝ
n
which involves the distance to the boundary, the diameter and the volume of Ω. Weight functions in the inequalities depend on the “mean-distance” function and on the distance function to the boundary of Ω. The proved inequalities connect function to first and second order derivatives.
Uniqueness of meromorphic functions sharing four small functions on annuli
Authors: Meng Da Wei , Liu San Yang , Lu Nan
Published: July 2019

Under a certain condition, we propose a uniqueness theorem about meromorphic functions sharing four distinct small functions on an annulus. Two counter examples are given in order to show the certain condition is necessary. Our results generalize or improve the previous theorems due to T. B. Cao et al. and N. Wu et al.
A subclass of uniformly convex functions and a corresponding subclass of starlike function with fixed coefficient associated with q-analogue of Ruscheweyh operator
Authors: Khan Shahid , Hussain Saqib , Zaighum Muhammad A. , Darus Maslina
Published: July 2019

Making use of Ruscheweyh q-differential operator, we define a new subclass of uniformly convex functions and corresponding subclass of starlike functions with negative coefficients. The main object of this paper is to obtain, coefficient estimates, closure theorems and extreme point for the functions belonging to this new class. The results are generalized to families with fixed finitely many coefficients.
Functions of bounded variation related to domains bounded by conic sections
Authors: Kanas Stanisława , Altinkaya Şahsene
Published: July 2019

The aim of this paper is to bring together two areas of studies in the theory of analytic functions: functions of bounded variation and functions related to domains bounded by conic sections. Some relevant properties are indicated.
Oscillatory criteria for the second order linear ordinary differential equations
Authors: Grigorian Gevorg A.
Published: July 2019

The Riccati equation method is used to establish three new oscillatory criteria for the second order linear ordinary differential equations. We show that the first of these criteria in the continuous case of the coefficient function (potential) of the equation implies the J. Deng’s oscillatory criterion. An extremal oscillatory condition for the Mathieu’s equation is obtained. The obtained results are compared with some known oscillatory criteria.
When deviation happens between rough statistical convergence and rough weighted statistical convergence
Authors: Ghosal Sanjoy , Ghosh Avishek
Published: July 2019

In this paper we introduce rough weighted statistical limit set and weighted statistical cluster points set which are natural generalizations of rough statistical limit set and statistical cluster points set of double sequences respectively. Some new examples are constructed to ensure the deviation of basic results. Both the sets don’t follow the usual extension properties which will be discussed here.
On sequence spaces generated by binomial difference operator of fractional order
Authors: Yaying Taja , Hazarika Bipan
Published: July 2019

In this article we introduce binomial difference sequence spaces of fractional order α,

b
p

r
,
s

$\begin{array}{}
b_p^{r,s}
\end{array}$

(Δ(α)) (1 ≤ p ≤ ∞) by the composition of binomial matrix, B

r,s
and fractional difference operator Δ(α), defined by (Δ(α)
x)
k
=

∑

i
=
0

∞

(
−
1

)
i

Γ
(
α
+
1
)

i
!
Γ
(
α
−
i
+
1
)

x

k
−
i

$\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle
\sum\limits_{i=0}^{\infty}(-1)^i\frac{\Gamma(\alpha+1)}{i!\Gamma(\alpha-i+1)}x_{k-i}
\end{array}$

. We give some topological properties, obtain the Schauder basis and determine the α, β and γ-duals of the spaces. We characterize the matrix classes (

b
p

r
,
s

$\begin{array}{}
b_p^{r,s}
\end{array}$

(Δ(α)), Y), where Y ∈ {ℓ
∞, c, c
0, ℓ
1} and certain classes of compact operators on the space

b
p

r
,
s

$\begin{array}{}
b_p^{r,s}
\end{array}$

(Δ(α)) using Hausdorff measure of non-compactness. Finally, we give some geometric properties of the space

b
p

r
,
s

$\begin{array}{}
b_p^{r,s}
\end{array}$

(Δ(α)) (1 < p < ∞).
On the Gromov-Hausdorff limit of metric spaces
Authors: Wu Zhijuan , Xiao Yingqing
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we show that a class of metric spaces determined by a continuous function f, which defines on the metric space of all real, n × n-matrices m is closed under the Gromov-Hausdorff convergence. This conclusion can be used to prove some metric properties of metric space is stable under the Gromov-Hausdorff convergence. Secondly, we consider the stability problem in Gromov hyperbolic space and show that if a sequence of Gromov hyperbolic spaces (Xn
, dn
) is said to converge to (X, d) in the sense of Gromov-Hausdorff convergence, then the Gromov hyperbolicity δ(Xn
) of (Xn
, dn
) tends to the Gromov hyperbolicity δ(X) of (X, d).
The beta exponentiated Nadarajah-Haghighi distribution: theory, regression model and application
Authors: Saboor Abdus , Khan Muhammad Nauman , Cordeiro Gauss M. , Elbatal Ibrahim , Pescim Rodrigo R.
Published: July 2019

We introduce and study the beta exponentiated Nadarajah-Haghighi model, which has increasing, decreasing, upside-down bathtub and bathtub shaped hazard functions. Some of its mathematical properties are determined including a power series for the quantile function. We perform a Monte Carlo simulation study to assess the finite sample behavior of the maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters. We define a new regression model based on the new distribution. The potentiality of this regression model is proved empirically by means of a real dataset related to diabetic retinopathy study.
Photonic analogues of the Haldane and Kane-Mele models
Authors: Lannebère Sylvain , Silveirinha Mário G.
Published: July 2019

The condensed matter Haldane and Kane-Mele models revolutionized the understanding of what is an “insulator,” as they unveiled novel classes of media that behave as metals near the surface, but are insulating in the bulk. Here, we propose exact electromagnetic analogues of these two influential models relying on a photonic crystal implementation of “artificial graphene” subject to an effective magnetic field. For the Haldane model, the required effective magnetic field for photons can be emulated with a spatially variable pseudo-Tellegen response. For the Kane-Mele model, the spin-orbit coupling can be mimicked using matched anisotropic dielectrics with identical permittivity and permeability, without requiring any form of bianisotropic couplings. Using full-wave numerical simulations and duality theory we verify that the nontrivial topology of the two proposed platforms results in the emergence of topologically protected gapless edge states at the interface with a trivial photonic insulator. Our theory paves the way for the emulation of the two condensed matter models in a photonic platform and determines another paradigm to observe topologically protected edge states in a fully reciprocal all-dielectric and non-uniform anisotropic metamaterial.
Topologically protected broadband rerouting of propagating waves around complex objects
Authors: Hayran Zeki , Hassani Gangaraj Seyyed Ali , Monticone Francesco
Published: July 2019

Achieving robust propagation and guiding of electromagnetic waves through complex and disordered structures is a major goal of modern photonics research, for both classical and quantum applications. Although the realization of backscattering-free and disorder-immune guided waves has recently become possible through various photonic schemes inspired by topological insulators in condensed matter physics, the interaction between such topologically protected guided waves and free-space propagating waves remains mostly unexplored, especially in the context of scattering systems. Here, we theoretically demonstrate that free-space propagating plane waves can be efficiently coupled into topological one-way surface waves, which can seamlessly flow around sharp corners and electrically large barriers and release their energy back into free space in the form of leaky-wave radiation. We exploit this physical mechanism to realize topologically protected wave-rerouting around an electrically large impenetrable object of complex shape, with transmission efficiency exceeding 90%, over a relatively broad bandwidth. The proposed topological wave-rerouting scheme is based on a stratified structure composed of a topologically nontrivial magnetized plasmonic material coated by a suitable isotropic layer. Our results may open a new avenue in the field of topological photonics and electromagnetics, for applications that require engineered interactions between guided waves and free-space propagating waves, including for complex beam-routing systems and advanced stealth technology. More generally, our work may pave the way for robust defect/damage-immune scattering and radiating systems.
Perovskite nanocrystals for energy conversion and storage
Authors: Kostopoulou Athanasia , Brintakis Konstantinos , Nasikas Nektarios K. , Stratakis Emmanuel
Published: July 2019

The high demand for energy consumption in everyday life, and fears of climate change are driving the scientific community to explore prospective materials for efficient energy conversion and storage. Perovskites, a prominent category of materials, including metal halides and perovskite oxides have a significant role as energy materials, and can effectively replace conventional materials. The simultaneous need for new energy materials together with the increased interest for making new devices, and exploring new physics, thrust the research to control the structuring of the perovskite materials at the nanoscale. Nanostructuring of the perovskites offers unique features such as a large surface area, extensive porous structures, controlled transport and charge-carrier mobility, strong absorption and photoluminescence, and confinement effects. These features together with the unique tunability in their composition, shape, and functionalities make perovskite nanocrystals efficient for energy-related applications such as photovoltaics, catalysts, thermoelectrics, batteries, supercapacitor and hydrogen storage systems. The synthesis procedures of perovskite nanostructures in different morphologies is summarized and the energy-related properties and applications are extensively discussed in this paper.
The fine structure of the neutral nitrogen-vacancy center in diamond
Authors: Barson Michael S.J. , Krausz Elmars , Manson Neil B. , Doherty Marcus W.
Published: July 2019

The nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center in diamond is a widely utilized system due to its useful quantum properties. Almost all research focuses on the negative charge state (NV−) and comparatively little is understood about the neutral charge state (NV0). This is surprising as the charge state often fluctuates between NV0 and NV− during measurements. There are potentially under-utilized technical applications that could take advantage of NV0, either by improving the performance of NV0 or utilizing NV− directly. However, the fine structure of NV0 has not been observed. Here, we rectify this lack of knowledge by performing magnetic circular dichroism measurements that quantitatively determine the fine structure of NV0. The observed behavior is accurately described by spin-Hamiltonians in the ground and excited states with the ground state yielding a spin-orbit coupling of λ = 2.24 ± 0.05 GHz and a orbital g-factor of 0.0186 ± 0.0005. The reasons why this fine structure has not been previously measured are discussed and strain-broadening is concluded to be the likely reason.
Synthesis and crystal structure of a new polymorph of diisopropylammonium trichloroacetate, C8H16Cl3NO2
Authors: Reiss Guido J. , Meyer Michaela K. , Graf Jürgen
Published: July 2019

C8H16Cl3NO2, monoclinic, P21 (no. 4), a = 9.1804(5), Å, b = 19.4133(10) Å, c = 13.9191(7) Å, β = 90.593(3)°, V = 2480.6(2) Å3, Z = 8, R
gt(F) = 0.0605, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1387, T = 296(2) K.
Crystal structure of (E)-2-(3,6-bis(ethylamino)-2,7-dimethyl-9H-xanthen-9-yl)-N′-((6-methylpyridin-2-yl)methylene)benzohydrazide – methanol (1/1), C34H37N5O3
Authors: Yuan Juan
Published: July 2019

C34H37N5O3, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 8.9446(3) Å, b = 13.4223(4) Å, c = 13.4559(4) Å, α = 83.371(3)°, β = 71.724(3)°, γ = 75.383(3)°, Z = 2, V = 1483.18(9) Å3, R
gt(F) = 0.0383, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0981, T = 105.6(5) K.
Crystal structure of poly[(μ3-9H-carbazole-3,6-dicarboxylato-κ3
O
1: O
2: O
3)(μ2-4-(pyridin-4-yl)pyridine-κ2
N
1:N
1′)zinc(II)], C19H11N2O4Zn
Authors: Wang Daguang , Li Wei , Sun Yabin
Published: July 2019

C19H11N2O4Zn, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 21.645(3) Å, b = 11.4467(18) Å, c = 12.985(2) Å, β = 103.156(3)°, Z = 8, V = 3132.8(8) Å3, R
gt(F) = 0.0436, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1193, T = 172(2) K.
Crystal structure of discandium triruthenium tetrasilicide, Sc2Ru3Si4
Authors: Ibuka Soshi , Matsushita Yoshitaka , Imai Motoharu
Published: July 2019

Sc2Ru3Si4, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 19.0663(5) Å, b = 5.27810(10) Å, c = 13.3458(4) Å, β = 127.7710(10)°, V = 1061.62(5) Å3, Z = 8, R
gt(F) = 0.0209, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0530, T = 293(2) K.
The crystal structure of 1,2-bis(3-bromophenoxy) ethane, C14H12Br2O2
Authors: Teng Ming-Gang , Qin Yu-Mei , Long Dan , Cao Jian-Xin , Zhao Chun-Shen
Published: July 2019

C14H12Br2O2, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 27.323(3) Å, b = 5.8516(6) Å, c = 8.9145(10) Å, β = 103.596(3)°, V = 1385.4(3) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0378, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1019, T = 296(2) K.
Community Health Centers (CHCs) Under Environmental Uncertainty: An Examination of the Affordable Care Act of 2010 and Early Medicaid Expansion on CHC Margin
Authors: Lam Marcus , Grasse Nathan
Published: July 2019

Nonprofit community health centers (CHCs) are the largest subset of safety net clinics in the United States and, in many vulnerable and underserved areas, act as the only provider of vital health services in the community. The expansion of Medicaid provision under the Affordable Care Act of 2010 led to a fundamental change in the core client demographics of CHCs, with higher income thresholds and single childless individuals now eligible for Medicaid. This expansion of the Medicaid population creates both opportunities and threats that may impact CHCs’ long term financial sustainability. Accumulating reserves through positive net margins is a managerial tactic that nonprofits can utilize to buffer against environmental uncertainty. This study utilizes data from IRS Form 990s, American Community Survey, HRSA grantee lists, and the Area Resource File to model the differences in net margins between CHCs in early Medicaid expansion and non-expansion states from 2008–2012. Results show higher margins for CHCs in early expansion states compared to non-expansion states, even after accounting for organizational and environmental covariates. CHCs who are HRSA grantees are associated with positive margins whereas those relying more heavily on program revenue show negative margins. Further, CHCs located in counties with higher percentages of persons in poverty also demonstrate reduced margins. This exploratory study contributes to the nonprofit finance literature by highlighting the importance of incorporating contextual variables to deepen our understanding of changes in nonprofit financial health.
Spectral and thermal data as a proxy for leaf protective energy dissipation under kaolin application in grapevine cultivars
Authors: Tosin Renan , Pôças Isabel , Cunha Mário
Published: July 2019

The dynamic effects of kaolin clay particle film application on the temperature and spectral reflectance of leaves of two autochthonous cultivars (Touriga Nacional (TN, n=32) and Touriga Franca (TF, n=24)) were studied in the Douro wine region. The study was implemented in 2017, in conditions prone to multiple environmental stresses that include excessive light and temperature as well as water shortage. Light reflectance from kaolin-sprayed leaves was higher than the control (leaves without kaolin) on all dates. Kaolin’s protective effect over leaves’ temperatures was low on the 20 days after application and ceased about 60 days after its application. Differences between leaves with and without kaolin were explained by the normalized maximum leaf temperature (T_max_f_N), reflectance at 400 nm, 532 nm, and 737 nm, as assessed through TN data. The wavelengths of 532 nm and 737 nm are associated with plant physiological processes, which support the selection of these variables for assessing kaolin’s effects on leaves. The application of principal component analysis to the TF data, based on these four variables (T_max_f_N and reflectances: 400, 532, 737 nm) selected for TN, explained 83.56% of data variability (considering two principal components), obtaining a clear differentiation between leaves with and without kaolin. The T_max_f_N and the reflectance at 532 nm were the variables with a greater contribution for explaining data variability. The results improve the understanding of the vines’ response to kaolin throughout the grapevine cycle and support decisions about the re-application timing.
MACHoice: a Decision Support System for agricultural machinery management
Authors: Cunha M. , Gonçalves S.G.
Published: July 2019

Mechanisation is a key input in modern agriculture, while it accounts for a large part of crop production costs, it can bring considerable farm benefits if well managed. Models for simulated machinery costs, may not replace actual cost measurements but the information obtained through them can replace a farm’s existing records, becoming more valuable to decision makers. MACHoice, a decision support system (DSS) presented in this paper, is a farm machinery cost estimator and break-even analyzer of alternatives for agricultural operations, developed using user-driven expectations and in close collaboration with agronomists and computer engineers. It integrates an innovative algorithm developed for projections of machinery costs under different rates of annual machine use and work capacity processing, which is crucial to decisions on break-even machinery alternatives. A case study based on the comparison of multiple alternatives for grape harvesting operations is presented to demonstrate the typical results that can be expected from MACHoice, and to identify its capabilities and limitations. This DSS offers an integrated and flexible analysis environment with a user-friendly graphical interface as well as a high level of automation of processing chains. The DSS-output consists of charts and tables, evidencing the differences related to costs and carbon emissions between the options inserted by the user for the different intensity of yearly work proceeded. MACHoice is an interactive web-based tool that can be accessed freely for non-commercial use by every known browser.
Effect of salinity on the morphological, physiological and biochemical properties of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Sium , Ahmed Shawon , Roy Swapan Kumar , Woo Sun Hee , Sonawane Kailas Dashrath , Shohael Abdullah Mohammad
Published: July 2019

This study aimed to explore the changes in morphological, physiological and biochemical characteristics of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in response to salt stress when grown using hydroponic techniques. The seedlings were subjected to five different concentrations (0 mM, 50 mM, 100 mM, 150 mM, and 200 mM) of NaCl for three weeks. During the salt stress, morphological properties (shoot length, root length, total plant weight, leaf number) were measured in every week. After 21 days of salt stress, physiological properties (water content and relative water content) and biochemical properties (proline, protein, phenol, reducing and non-reducing sugar content) were measured. Morphological and physiological properties were found decreased gradually with increasing salt concentrations. Biochemical properties such as proline and protein content increased remarkably, and total phenol content decreased gradually with increasing salt concentrations. Reducing sugar accumulation was higher in all treatments except 50 mM in comparison to control. Non-reducing sugar accumulation was decreased in 100 mM and 200 mM treatment, similar in 150 mM treatment, and increased in 50 mM treatment when compared to control. These findings render lettuce a salt-sensitive plant at higher salt concentration. However, changes in characteristics were realistic up to 50 mM salt concentration.
Isolation, characterization and purification of Rhizobium strain to enrich the productivity of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Hossain Akbar , Gunri Sunil Kumar , Barman Manashi , Sabagh Ayman EL , Teixeira da Silva Jaime A.
Published: July 2019

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important food legume in tropical and subtropical areas because of its ability to adapt to a wide range of agro-climatic regions. Groundnut is usually cultivated in nutrient-poor soil and rain-fed conditions, so average yield tends to be very low relative to potential yield. Even though the nitrogen (N) requirement of groundnut is much higher than cereals due to its high protein content, it has the capacity to meet 60-80% of N-based requirements through symbiotic N fixation via its root nodules. In its symbiotic relationship with legumes, Rhizobium fixes N, thereby positively impacting the content of this nutrient. This study aimed to isolate, characterize and purify microbial strains of Rhizobium specific to groundnut in a bid to increase this legume’s productivity. The research was conducted in the AICRP-Groundnut laboratory and greenhouse of the Directorate of Research, BCKV, in Kalyani, India during October 2016 to March 2017. Two Rhizobium isolates (RhBC and NRA1) were isolated and selected from groundnut pot cultures. After 45 days, NRA1 produced higher plant biomass, longer roots and shoots, more nodules and higher nodule dry weight than RhBC. NRA1 was selected for a future field trial. The two isolated microbial strains will aid in the screening of additional local isolates to test their effectiveness when co-cultured with local groundnut cultivars to increase yield in soil with low fertility.
Transforming Representation: Jacques Derrida and the End of Christianity
Authors: Koci Martin
Published: July 2019

The central question of this paper revolves around the problem of representation. Following Jacques Derrida and his critique of representation, this paper will interconnect two, at first sight distinct, topics: Christianity and the world of media. For Derrida, Christianity stands behind our common understanding of representation, whereas the media are the major driving force of any representation today. The central argument of this paper is to unfold this link between Christianity and representation and thus to elaborate on the idea of representation in relation to the end of Christianity announced by Derrida. Firstly, I will review Derrida’s account on the logic of representation. Derrida deems Christianity to be responsible for the logic of representation discernible in today’s media world and offers a devastating critique of the concept. Secondly, I will contextualize Derrida’s approach by pointing out the tension between the modern and postmodern perspectives on representation. Thirdly, I will return to a close reading of Derrida. Fourthly, I will offer a critique of Derrida’s critique and will look further at the possible meanings of ‘the end of Christianity.’
Antimicrobial gelatin/sericin/clay films for packaging of hygiene products
Authors: Purwar Roli , Verma Anjali , Batra Radhika
Published: July 2019

In this study we have prepared flexible gelatin/sericin/clay blend films for packaging applications of hygiene products. Gelatin/sericin (3:1, 1:1 and 1:3 w/w ratios) films were prepared using glutaraldehyde as a crosslinking agent and glycerol as a plasticizer by the solution casting method. The concentrations of gelatin and sericin were optimized on the basis of their mechanical properties. Closite 30B and copper-modified montmorillonite clay (with concentration of 1–5%) were incorporated into the optimized gelatin/sericin blend films in order to improve the mechanical and antimicrobial properties. The water vapor transmission rate of the film samples was also studied. The soil burial test showed very good biodegradability of the blends films. The antimicrobial testing revealed efficient activity of these blend films against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. Hence, on the basis of the above-mentioned properties, these films can be considered as promising candidates for packaging of hygiene maintenance products.
Targetsalden und andere Risiken in der Europäischen Währungsunion
Authors: van Suntum Ulrich
Published: July 2019

Über die Bedeutung von Targetsalden streiten deutsche Ökonomen seit Jahren erbittert. Martin Hellwig hat in Heft 4/2018 der PWP seine Sicht der Dinge ausführlich dargelegt. Demnach ist es verfehlt, Targetsalden als Risikoposition in den Zentralbankbilanzen der Überschussländer zu interpretieren. Die insbesondere von Hans-Werner Sinn vorgetragenen Sorgen wegen des hohen deutschen Targetsaldos beruhten auf falschen bzw. überholten Vorstellungen der volkswirtschaftlichen Zusammenhänge. In dem vorliegenden Beitrag widerspricht Ulrich van Suntum dieser Einschätzung. Er wirft Hellwig vor, betriebs- und volkswirtschaftliche Sichtweisen zu verwechseln und die geldtheoretischen Zusammenhänge zu verkennen. Auch habe er die Diskussion der Problematik unter den Hauptkontrahenten zu wenig rezipiert, obwohl diese zu einem weitgehenden Konsens in wichtigen Fragen geführt habe. Im Ergebnis sei Sinn und dessen Koautoren, nicht aber Hellwigs Gegenposition weitestgehend zuzustimmen.
Chelators and metal complex stability for radiopharmaceutical applications
Authors: Okoye Nkemakonam C. , Baumeister Jakob E. , Najafi Khosroshahi Firouzeh , Hennkens Heather M. , Jurisson Silvia S.
Published: July 2019

Diagnostic and therapeutic nuclear medicine relies heavily on radiometal nuclides. The most widely used and well-known radionuclide is technetium-99m (99mTc), which has dominated diagnostic nuclear medicine since the advent of the 99Mo/99mTc generator in the 1960s. Since that time, many more radiometals have been developed and incorporated into potential radiopharmaceuticals. One critical aspect of radiometal-containing radiopharmaceuticals is their stability under in vivo conditions. The chelator that is coordinated to the radiometal is a key factor in determining radiometal complex stability. The chelators that have shown the most promise and are under investigation in the development of diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals over the last 5 years are discussed in this review.
Radiochemical neutron activation analysis for the determination of selenium in Mentha spicata L. samples collected from Djelfa, Algeria region
Authors: Messaoudi Mohammed , Begaa Samir
Published: July 2019

Selenium (Se) has been a focus of attention as an important micronutrient with its impact on human health, with there being consequences either due to excess or deficiency in intake. Radiochemical neutron activation analysis (RNAA) is well established method for determination of a number of elements at trace level concentrations with high sensitivities. In this work, we used the RNAA method for determination of selenium content in Mentha spicata L. The result of this study was compared with those samples from India and Serbia. The result obtained show that, Se concentration obtained in M. spicata L., is close to the minimal FAO recommendation.
Exploring polyvinyl alcohol – nickel sulphate composite film for absorbed dose monitoring
Authors: Fahim Essam , Bekhit Mohamad , Sobhy Asmaa , Ali Zakaria I.
Published: July 2019

In the current study, we employ the polyvinyl alcohol doped with nickel sulphate (PVA-Ni+2) as a new film for monitoring the absorbed dose in radiation processing facility. The effect of irradiation doses on the structure of PVA-Ni+2 composite films was analyzed through Fourier transform infrared and X-ray diffraction techniques. The PVA-Ni+2 composite films have a response curve that extends from 5 to 60 kGy and labeling character figured through color change from pale green to intense purple color on exposing to gamma photons. Although the films are dose rate dependent, the films have excellent post stability.
Research advances on process systems integration and process safety in China
Authors: Yang Siyu , Feng Xiao , Liu Linlin , Zhang Zhanpeng , Deng Chun , Du Jian , Zhao Jinsong , Qian Yu
Published: July 2019

Process systems engineering research focuses on the planning, design, operation, and safety of process systems rather than unit operations. In response to the rapid growth of the chemical process industry in the last 20 years in China, advanced system integration and process safety technologies are investigated and applied for better resource utilization, less environmental impact, and safer working places. In this regard, the review in this article consists of four main achievements: (1) process synthesis, (2) energy system integration, (3) water system integration, and (4) process safety management. The purpose of process synthesis and integration is to improve resource and energy utilization, at the same time lowering by-products and emissions. Optimization is conducted on process structure and operation, following the principles of resource coupling and energy cascade utilization. Typical examples are coupling of coal and hydrogen-rich resources and integration of coal-based polygeneration process of chemicals, electricity, and heat. Energy integration implements the coordinated optimization of total site energy systems. Reviews are made on specific methodologies based on the thermodynamics and applications of design and retrofit in ethylene, oil refining, and synthetic ammonia industries. There are energy savings by 10%–20% and yields increasing by 20%–30%. In addition, waste heat recovery and cold energy utilization are also important research areas. Reviews on the progress of water system integration and its industrial applications are also conducted. It includes the direct reuse, regeneration, and reuse/recycle in water systems and systems with internal water mains. Finally, safety management and technologies are also indispensable technological advancements of the process. The legislation system and the work safety-related standard system have been gradually established and enforced. Process safety research progress is reviewed, and questions are proposed for improving the accident prevention and safety management agenda.
Progress in the use of electrospun nanofiber electrodes for solid oxide fuel cells: a review
Authors: Parbey Joseph , Wang Qin , Yu Guangsen , Zhang Xiaoqiang , Li Tingshuai , Andersson Martin
Published: July 2019

The application of one-dimensional nanofibers in the fabrication of an electrode greatly improves the performance of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) due to its advantages on electron transfer and mass transport. Various mixed ionic-electronic conducting materials with perovskites and Ruddlesden-Popper-type metal oxide structures are successfully electrospun into nanofibers in recent years mostly in solvent solution and some in melt forms, which are used as anode and cathode electrodes for SOFCs. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the structure, electrochemical performance, and development of anode and cathode nanofiber electrodes including processing, structure, and property characterization. The focuses are first on the precursor, applied voltage, and polymer in the material electrospinning process, the performance of the fiber, potential limitation and drawbacks, and factors affecting fiber morphology, and sintering temperature for impurity-free fibers. Information on relevant methodologies for cell fabrication and stability issues, polarization resistances, area specific resistance, conductivity, and power densities are summarized in the paper, and technology limitations, research challenges, and future trends are also discussed. The concluded information benefits improvement of the material properties and optimization of microstructure of the electrodes for SOFCs.
Memes, genes, and signs: Semiotics in the conceptual interface of evolutionary biology and memetics
Authors: Fomin Ivan
Published: July 2019

In 1976, Richard Dawkins coined the term meme as a way to metaphorically project bio-evolutionary principles upon the processes of cultural and social development. The works of Dawkins and of some other enthusiasts had contributed to a rise in popularity of the concept of memetics (“study of memes”), but the interest to this new field started to decline quite soon. The conceptual apparatus of memetics was based on a number of quasi-biological terms, but the emerging discipline failed to go beyond those initial metaphors. This article is an attempt to rebuild the toolkit of memetics with the help of the more fundamental concepts taken from semiotics and to propose a synthetic conceptual framework connecting genetics and memetics, in which semiotics is used as the transdisciplinary methodology for both disciplines. The concept of sign is used as the meta-lingual equivalent for both the concepts of gene and meme. In the most general understanding, sign is a thing which stands for another thing. In genetics, this translates into gene that is a section of DNA that stands for the algorithm of how a particular biomolecule is built. In memetics, the similar principle works in meme that is a thing that stands for the rules of how a particular cultural practice is performed.
Visual semiotics and automatic analysis of images from the Cultural Analytics Lab: How can quantitative and qualitative analysis be combined?
Authors: Dondero Maria Giulia
Published: July 2019

In this article we explore the relationship between semiotic analysis of images and quantitative analysis of vast image corpora, in particular the work produced by Lev Manovich and the Cultural Analytics Lab, called “Media Visualization.” Media Visualization has been chosen as corpus because of its metavisual operation (images are visualized and analyzed by images) and its innovating way of conceiving analysis: by visual instruments. In this paper semiotics is used as an approach to Media Visualization and taken as an object of study as well, especially visual semiotics. In this sense, a comparison between visual semiotics (close reading of small corpora) and quantitative analyses of images (distant reading of vast collections) are conducted from a semiotic point of view. Post-Greimassian semiotics guides this study with respect to the issue of the image-within-an-image and metavisual visualization; Peircean semiotics is employed to explain and develop the notion of diagram.
Development of molecularly imprinted Acrylamide-Acrylamido phenylboronic acid copolymer microbeads for selective glycosaminoglycan separation in children urine
Authors: Uygun Zihni Onur , Okutucu Burcu , Hacikara Şükriye , Sağın Ferhan
Published: July 2019

Background

In this study, we synthesized molecularly imprinted copolymers for liquid chromatography columns as a separator for glycosaminoglycan (dermatan sulfate; DS and chondroitin sulfate; CS) in urine.

Materials and methods

Acrylamide and acrylamido phenylboronic acid were used as monomers, acrylamide was used for as base monomer to attract negatively charged groups and acrylamido phenylboronic acid (AAPBA) residues used to form diol bonds between sugar and boronic acid residues to strengthen the attraction. These monomers were synthesized by using precipitation polymerization to form uniform spheres, which are more durable for the pressurized chromatographic systems. Trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate and AIBN were used as crosslinker and starter, respectively.

Results

These GAG selective polymers were filled by pressurized flow into the steel (4.6 mm × 1.6 mm) columns, then imprinted GAGs were extracted and analyzed to calculate binding capacity of each milligram polymer. Calibration curves of the GAG selective columns were obtained 62.5–1000 ng/mL less than 5% coefficient variation, and lower matrix effect.

Conclusion

Our imprinted columns separated different GAGs from urine specifically and sensitively. Matrix effect was at an ignorable level thus the challenging use.
The steric influence of extra-framework cations on framework flexibility: an LTA case study
Authors: Cornelius Mero-Lee U. , Price Lisa , Wells Stephen A. , Petrik Leslie F. , Sartbaeva Asel
Published: July 2019

The theoretical extent of framework flexibility of Zeolite A (LTA) in response to the steric and geometric effects of different Si/Al compositions and extra-framework cation content has been explored using GASP software. Flexibility windows and compression mechanisms for siliceous LTA and aluminosilicate Na-LTA, Ca-LTA and K-LTA have been modelled. As expected, relatively small cations in the zeolite pores have little effect on the range of flexibility observed. Aluminosilicate LTA, Na-LTA and Ca-LTA frameworks exhibit identical flexibility windows and these frameworks also follow the same compression mechanisms. The introduction of larger K+ ions, however, results in greater steric hindrance. This restricts the flexibility of the framework and alters the compression mechanism to accommodate these larger cations. It is shown that the limits of the flexibility window of Zeolite A are dependent on framework aluminium content and extra-framework cation size.
Green Zn3Al2Ge2O10: Mn2+ Phosphors: Solid-Phase Synthesis, Structure, and Luminescent Properties
Authors: Feng Wenlin , Yang Xiaozhan , Peng Jin , Zhang Yike , Chen Weiqiang
Published: July 2019

Novel green phosphors Zn3Al2Ge2O10: Mn2+ were successfully synthesised at high temperature under weak reducing atmosphere. X-ray diffraction results indicate that the samples have like-spinel structure. The morphology, chemical states, and the composition of the dopants in the host were analysed with high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrum, high-angle annular dark-field, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic techniques. The photoluminescence spectra show that the emission peak is at 537 nm (under excitation at λex = 334 nm), which is the strong green emission resulting from the 4T1 (4G)-6A1 (6S) transition of Mn2+ ion. The full width at half maximum broadband of the strongest broad emission is about 50 nm. The Zn3Al2Ge2O10 doped with 4 mol% Mn2+ appears to have the highest emission intensity after thermal treatment at 1250 °C for 5 h. The CIE coordinates are x = 0.279, y = 0.625, corresponding to green region, and the decay time is 4.88 μs. The results indicate that the phosphors may be used as a trichromatic fluorescent material.
Iminium-functionalized 1,2,3-triazoles by [3+2] cycloaddition reactions of internal acetylenic iminium triflates with organoazides
Authors: Tontsch Christian J. , Gerster Holger , Maas Gerhard
Published: July 2019

Propyne iminium triflates 1–6 react as dipolarophiles in thermal [3 + 2]-cycloadditions with sufficiently electron rich organoazides to form 1,4,5-trisubstituted 1,2,3-triazoles with iminium functionalization. The reactions require rather strong thermal activation, but can be accelerated by microwave irradiation. The regioselectivity of the cycloaddition at the internal acetylenic bond of 3-cyclopropylpropyne and 3-arylpropyne iminium ions (1–3 and 4, respectively) is very high, but is lowered in the presence of sterically demanding substituents at the opposite end of the iminium-substituted C,C triple bond. The iminium-functionalized triazoles can easily be transformed into neutral compounds; herein reported is the formation of triazolyl ketones 10 by hydrolysis and of tertiary triazolyldimethyl amines 12 by LiAlH4 reduction. When the reduction is performed with sodium boranate or sodium cyanoboranate, amine–borane complexes 15 and 16 are obtained.