bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Tail Wagging the Dog? Top-down and Bottom-up Explanations for Bureaucratic Appointments in Authoritarian Regimes
Authors: Burkhardt Fabian , Libman Alexander
Published: June 2018

The paper investigates the link between the sub-national variation of political regimes in a (at the federal level) non-democratic country and the appointments of federal officials in the sub-national provinces. In particular, we look at the appointment of the chief federal inspectors to the regions in Putin’s Russia in 2000–2012. Our main research question is whether appointment patterns can be explained by top-down concerns of the central government willing to keep control over the most unruly regions or by bottom-up self-selection of bureaucrats belonging to influential groups into more attractive positions more suitable for rent-seeking. The advantage of our case is that data we have at hand allow us to distinguish these two logics. Our results indicate that for the Russian chief federal inspectors in 2000–2012 bottom-up self-selection appears to be the more plausible explanation of the link between sub-national political regimes and appointment patterns.
Coordination, Subordination and Control in Russian Territorial Governance
Authors: Starodubtsev Andrey
Published: June 2018

The article analyzes the current model of intergovernmental relations in Russia and explains how it was formed in the 2000s, as well as demonstrating its effects in one sphere of public administration, namely education. Based on theoretical perspectives on the expected and unexpected effects of decentralization, authoritarian politicians’ motives and central governments’ strategies aimed at overcoming the principal-agency problem, the author hypothesizes that decentralization realized under the conditions of an authoritarian government in geographically, ethnically and economically complex societies produces a kind of trap. Concentration on administrative decentralization intensifies the principal-agent problem while the authoritarian rulers’ interests limit the potential for employing effective means to overcome it.
A new species of Paspalum (Poaceae, Panicoideae, Paspaleae—Recta group), from the cangas of the Serra dos Carajás, Pará, Brazil
Authors: MOURA CLAPTON OLIMPIO DE , VIANA PEDRO LAGE , OLIVEIRA REGINA CÉLIA
Published: June 2018

A new species, Paspalum cangarum, morphologically similar to P. brachytrichum, is described. While both occur in canga vegetation, P. brachytrichum is endemic to the state of Minas Gerais and the new species is restricted to the Serra dos Carajás, state of Pará, Brazil. These species can be distinguished from each other mainly by their height, length and number of racemes and by the lengths of their pedicels and spikelets.
Ligularia pyrifolia var. dissecta (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a remarkable new variety from southwestern Yunnan, China
Authors: WANG LONG , ZENG YOU-PAI , CHEN JUN-REN , YANG QIN-ER
Published: June 2018

Ligularia pyrifolia var. dissecta (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a remarkable new variety from Wuliang Shan in Jingdong, southwestern Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. It is most readily distinguishable from the type variety, var. pyrifolia, by having dissected (vs. undivided) leaves, a rare character in the genus Ligularia.
A phylogenetic assessment of the meadow lizard Darevskia praticola (Eversmann, 1834) from Iran
Authors: SABERI-PIROOZ REIHANEH , AHMADZADEH FARAHAM , ATAEI SAEEDEH , TAATI MEHRNAZ , QASHQAEI ALI TURK , CARRETERO MIGUEL A.
Published: June 2018

The meadow lizard Darevskia praticola (Eversmann, 1834) displays a wide distribution range from the Western Balkans and Caucasus to the Hyrcanian forest in Iran. Based on previous studies, four subspecies have been described (D. p. praticola, D. p. pontica, D. p. hyrcanica and D. p. loriensis), but molecular evidence suggests two main phylogenetic lineages, Balkan and Caucasus. In this study we incorporated geographic records and analysed new samples from Alborz Mountains (Gilan Province, Iran), exploring their phylogenetic affinities using two mitochondrial markers (Cyt b and ND4). For the first time, Iranian samples are included in a molecular phylogeny. Our results meet the previous suggestions regarding the presence of a nuclear mitochondrial DNA fragment (numt) in Cyt b, causing misleading phylogenetic inferences since it renders the species paraphyletic. In contrast, the ND4 genealogy groups the species into a monophyletic clade, as expected. Samples attributed to D. p. hyrcanica (Azerbaijan and Iran) and D. p. loriensis (Armenia) are settled in a single clade with minute genetic distance, suggesting synonymisation.
New and little known bees of the genus Sphecodes Latreille, 1804 (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Halictidae) from Central Asia
Authors: ASTAFUROVA YULIA V. , PROSHCHALYKIN MAXIM YU. , SCHWARZ MAXIMILIAN
Published: June 2018

Following a previously published study on Central Asian species of Sphecodes bees we here present a further report on 20 rarely recorded and little known species. This brings to 34 the number of species of Sphecodes known from this region, with two of them recorded for the first time: Sphecodes scabricollis Wesmael, 1835 and S. hakkariensis Warncke, 1992. Sphecodes sandykachis Astafurova & Proshchalykin, sp. n. is described from Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Sphecodes atlassa Warncke, 1992, stat. nov. and S. hakkariensis Warncke, 1992, stat. nov. are raised to full species level.
New species of cynipid inquiline, Saphonecrus kuriphilusi (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae: Synergini), from Dryocosmus kuriphilus galls in Greece
Authors: MELIKA GEORGE , MEMTSAS GEORGE I. , NICHOLLS JAMES A. , AVTZIS DIMITRIOS N.
Published: June 2018

Since Dryocosmus kuriphilus (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae) emerged worldwide as a dangerous pest of chestnuts, there is only one dubious record from Japan of a cynipid inquiline reared from its galls. This is the first comprehensively documented record of a cynipid inquiline, Saphonecrus kuriphilusi, new species reared from galls of D. kuriphilus in Greece. Morphological description, morphological and molecular diagnostic characters for the new species are given.
Investigation on the Electrical Properties of Lithium Ion Conducting Polymer Electrolyte Films Based on Biodegradable Polymer Blends
Authors: Sankaran Sowmya , Deshmukh Kalim , Ahamed M. Basheer , Pasha S. K. Khadheer , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar , Ponnamma Deepalekshmi , AlMaadeed Mariam Al-Ali , Chidambaram K
Published: June 2018

In the present work, the polyvinyl alcohol/poly (N-vinyl pyrrolidone)/Lithium carbonate (PVA/PVP/Li2CO3) blend polymer electrolyte films were prepared via the solution casting technique, with varying concentration of Li2CO3 salt (0 to 25 wt%).
The surface morphology of these blend electrolyte films was examined using polarized optical microscopy (POM). The electrical properties such as impedance (Z), quality factor (Q-factor) and phase angle () of PVA/PVP/Li2CO3 blend electrolyte films were elucidated
using impedance analyzer in the frequencies from 50 Hz to 20 MHz and temperatures from 30 °C to 150 °C. It was observed that the inclusion of Li2CO3 salt into the PVA/PVP blend matrix led to an increase in the Z,  and Q-factor values. The maximum
Z of 1.19 x 107 Ω (50 Hz, 30 °C) was observed for blend electrolyte film containing 25 wt% Li2CO3 salt. The  also increased from 139° (20 MHz, 90 °C) for PVA/PVP blend to 179° (20 MHz, 40 °C) for blend electrolyte film
containing 25 wt% Li2CO3 salt. The Q-factor values was increased from 27.4 (10 MHz, 140 °C) for PVA/PVP blend to 56.2 (5 MHz,salt, 80 °C) for blend electrolyte film containing 25 wt% Li2CO3 salt.
Fabrication of MEMS/NEMS Cantilever Material Coating Systems for the Detection of Response and Analysis with Analytes Using OmniCant
Authors: Udara Srinivasarao , Murthy P. H. S. Tejo
Published: June 2018

MEMS/NEMS piezoresistive cantilever is a framework that is used to recognize the reaction with various material coatings and analytes to watch the reaction of the Cantilever. In the key examined different materials for creation of cantilever with various coatings on the cantilever which
is significant results for the applications. In the second approach in perspective of multiplication results we produce consistent MEMS/NEMS piezoresistive Cantilever with unmistakable evidence of different sorts of nano materials polyvinylpyrrolidone, 4-mercaptobenzoic corrosive (4-MBA) on
the covering of cantilever and its examination and viewing the response and reaction of the cantilever. In the third approach conspicuous verification of different analytes for the covered silicon dioxide cantilever to finished diverse results which are useful for the disclosure in stickiness
conditions. Finally to finish the experimentation examination used OmniCant instrument for every one of the sorts of examination with various analytes and response like resistance versus time it is possible to achieve for the present examinations.
Eco-Friendly Approach for the Efficient Biosynthesis of Mg3(PO4)2 Nanoparticles Using Plant Extract of Ocimum sanctum
Authors: Apsana G , George P. P , Devanna N
Published: June 2018

The green technology clubbed with the microwave irradiation allows one to produce the products and to reduce the number of production stages without increasing the cost. In this article, magnesium phosphate nanoparticles were successfully synthesized via a simple green chemical route
using plant extract of Ocimum sanctum L. in microwave assisted method and followed by annealing at the temperature of 700 °C. The crystal structure, morphologies, elemental composition and optical properties of synthesized magnesium phosphate nanoparticles were systematically characterized
by powdered X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and UV-Vis Spectroscopic analysis. The structure of the magnesium phosphate was found to be monoclinic with the particle size of
43 nm. We conclude that the synthesis of magnesium phosphate nanoparticles using Ocimum sanctum L as reducing and stabilizing agent is easy, cost-effective and eco-friendly.
Synthesis of Pure Hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) by the Sol–Gel Method and the Antibiotic Loaded in the Presence of Natural Polymer for the Application of Drug Delivery
Authors: Shalini B , Kumar A. Ruban , Saral A. Mary
Published: June 2018

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is the most widely accepted biomaterial for the repair and reconstruction of bone tissue defects. The current study is based on HAp was synthesized using sol–gel method. The drug was loaded in presence and absence of gelatin with pure HAp. Precursors like
calcium nitrate tetrahydrate and diammonium hydrogen orthophosphate were used and ammonia solution was added to maintain the pH value at 10.5 throughout the reaction. The synthesized HAp, drug loaded HAp and drug loaded HAp with gelatin were characterized using PXRD, FTIR, SEM, Drug loading,
drug release studies. Results shows that the average crystallite size of the prepared HAp and drug loaded HAp with gelatin are 30 to 60 nm and 100 to 300 nm respectively was calculated using PXRD and morphology of pure HAp and drug loaded HAp with polymer was found using SEM. Drug loading
and release percentage was calculated.
Electrical Property of Anchored Chitosan/Silver on Reduced Graphene Oxide Aerogel
Authors: Kumari G. Vanitha , Asha S , Ananth A. Nimrodh , Rajan M. A. Jothi , Mathavan T
Published: June 2018

Silver (Ag)/chitosan (CHT) functionalized Reduced graphene oxide aerogel was fabricated. CHT/Ag decorated reduced graphene oxide aerogel (RGOA) was characterized using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy were explaining the
surface morphology of CHT/Ag/RGOA. Physical techniques such as, spectroscopy and microscopy spectrum confirms the noncovalent interaction between graphene oxide layers and also the electrostatic interaction between Ag and CHT, RGOA. Electrostatically interacted Ag and CHT could enhance the
properties of RGOA. The DC electrical conductivity of the CHT/Ag wrapped RGOA investigated from I–V characteristics using keithly source meter. Thus, results indicate CHT/Ag/RGOA has enhanced electrical conductivity due to the influence of interacted silver particles.
Controlled Synthesis of Nanostructured Nickel Oxide Thin Film for Supercapacitor Application
Authors: Bhise S. C , Awale D. V , Vadiyar M. M , Patil S. K , Kokare B. N , Ghule A. V , Kolekar S. S
Published: June 2018

In the present work we report the controlled synthesis of NiO thin film with nano-leaves like morphology using reflux method. The synthesized NiO electrode is used as working electrode for supercapacitor application. The deposited NiO thin film was characterized using thermogravimetric
(TGA) analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The supercapacitor behaviour of NiO was investigated by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge and electrochemical
impedance spectroscopy using 3 M KOH electrolyte. The electrochemical results show specific capacitance of 513 F g−1 at 10 mV s−1 scan rate, power density (10.44 kW kg−1), energy density (14 Wh kg−1) and 85% capacitance retention
over 5000 cycles. These remarkable results indicate the importance of the NiO nano-leaves electrode in energy storage device.
Investigation on Structural, Optical and Morphological Properties of the SnSe Films with Function of Annealing Temperatures
Authors: Sahayaraj C. A. R. Maria , Mohan A , Kannan R. Rathes , Rajesh S
Published: June 2018

The work, studies on the impact of annealing on Tin Selenide thin films prepared by thermal evaporation technique. The films were annealed at different temperatures (150 °C–350 °C) inside the vacuum chamber under the pressure of 10−5 to 10−6
torr. The effects of annealing on the SnSe films were studied by various characterization techniques. The X-ray diffraction study reveals the as prepared SnSe films have orthorhombic crystal structure and annealing enhance the crystalline nature. The grain size is found to be 29 nm to 35 nm.
The FE-SEM images observed that both uniform shaped grains of the annealing. The Selenium (Se) content has reduced after annealing due to re-evaporation of Se at higher annealing temperatures. The optical band gap values are found to be varying between 1.1 eV and 2.79 eV.
Direct Synthesis of Iron Oxide (α-Fe2O3) Nanoparticles by the Combustion Approach
Authors: Punitha S , Nehru L. C
Published: June 2018

A facile and rapid combustion method was developed to synthesis to produce iron oxide (α-Fe2O3) nanopowder using dissolution of iron nitrate (as the oxidant) and glycine (as fuel) as the starting materials. Generally, combustion synthesis of different
oxides involves a self-sustained reaction between a metal nitrates (oxidizer) and a urea, glycine, citric acid, hydrazine (fuel). Stoichiometric amounts of iron nitrate and glycine were dissolved in deionized water and poured into a quartz container can be mixed well by magnetic stirring for
1/2 h, which makes them almost as homogeneous mixtures, which was placed in a furnace at 300 °C. Initially, the solution boils and undergoes dehydration followed by decomposition with the evolution of large amount of gases with white fumes coming out from the exhaust opening provided on
the top of the furnace in 15 minutes. After the solution reaches the point of spontaneous combustion, it begins burning and releases lots of heat, vaporizes all the solution instantly and becomes a foamy white solid powder. X-ray diffraction studies confirmed that the resultant powder with
well-crystalline structure of pure α-Fe2O3 are produced using a single approach while simultaneously avoiding additional calcination procedures. Morphological analysis of the spherical structure of nanoparticle was achieved by SEM analyses is in the range
of 35 nm and the study of the chemical the Fe2O3 bonds created was made possible by FTIR analysis. The XRD, FTIR and Raman spectra confirmed the formation of rhombohedral structural α-Fe2O3. Overall glycine-nitrate combustion synthesis
has an outstanding potential for producing pure powder form of α-Fe2O3 nano particles, which leads to use in applications require high strength crystalline material.
The Mechanical Properties of Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) (PMMA)/ZrO2 Nanocomposite Polymer Films
Authors: Ghandhe Anita Rajkumar , Sannakki Basavaraja
Published: June 2018

The composite films of Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) with ZrO2 at different weight percentage have been used for measurement of Mechanical properties such as stress, strain, and Young’s modulus at room temperature using the Universal Testing Machine. The value of stress
is increased linearly with strain up to the stress at break and afterwards shown discontinuity. The properties of stress and strain increased as weight percentage of ZrO2 increased with PMMA and at 60 weight percent the stress in increased linearly up to 2.18 MPa with strain. The
tensile strength, load at break and stress at break of the composite film of PMMA with ZrO2 is increased as weight percentage increased. Further, the weight loss and melting temperature of the composite films for pristine and for irradiation by electron beam at dose rate of 100
kGy were measured using Thermo Gravimetric Analysis and Differential Scanning Calorimeter. The weight loss of the composite film after electron irradiation is higher than that of its pristine. It is observed from DSC that melting peak is occurred at temperature 397.52 °C for pristine and
at 395.94 °C after electron irradiation. Hence change in melting temperature is found to be 1.58 °C. The prepared composite films are characterized by using FTIR over the range of 3500– 500 wavenumbers (cm−1).
Synthesis and Structural Properties of (Co, Al) Co-Doped ZnO Nanoparticles
Authors: Swapna P , Reddy S. Venkatramana
Published: June 2018

Pristine and (Co, Al) co-doped ZnO nanoparticles have been successfully synthesized by chemical coprecipitation method without using capping agent and annealed in the furnace at 500 °C for one hour. The aluminium concentration is fixed at 5 mol% and cobalt concentration is increasing
from 1 to 3 mol%. X-ray diffraction results shows that all the samples possess hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO having no secondary phase after adding of aluminium and cobalt, which may be ascribed to the incorporation of cobalt an aluminium ions into the Zinc oxide host lattice site rather
than interstitial. Non-uniform spherical nanoparticles were observed through SEM and the elemental analysis is determined through Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Raman spectrum shows that the prominent peak appeared at 530 cm−1, for co-doped samples which is attributed
to the local vibration mode corresponds to cobalt bound with the donor defects.
Structural and Photoluminescence Characteristics of Cu Doped CdS Nanoparticles
Authors: Raviteja K , Sreelekha N , Reddy D. Amaranatha , Vijayalakshmi R. P , Subramanyam K
Published: June 2018

EDTA surfactant assisted bare and Cu doped CdS nanoparticles were prepared by simple chemical coprecipitation method. As the prepared samples were characterized by energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDAX), X-ray diffraction patterns (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM),
Raman spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). Existence of Cu in host lattice with near stoichiometric ratio was corroborated by EDAX spectra. X-ray diffraction patterns revealed that cubic structure as that of CdS host lattice. TEM images suggested that spherical nature of nanoparticles
with a size ranging from 4–6 nm. Room temperature photoluminescence (PL) spectra revealed that pristine host lattice nanoparticles demonstrate a strong green emission peak located at 525 nm as well as weak red emission shoulder situated at 598 nm. Auxiliary in Cu doped CdS samples, the
luminescence intensity was gradually reduced as well as the green emission peak was shifted to red region (660 nm). With increase of Cu content in host matrix a red shift is found in the PL emission peak.
Relaxation Dynamics of Carriers in Graphene
Authors: Kumar Vipin
Published: June 2018

We study the damping of anomalous Rabi oscillations in monolayer graphene by means of electron–phonon interaction. Our calculations show that the electron–phonon interaction led to the novel incoherent anomalous Rabi oscillations in graphene. Conventional Rabi oscillations
occur near resonance show an energy relaxation discussed elsewhere. Anomalous Rabi oscillations display almost zero energy relaxation in the presence of long-wavelength phonons at the Dirac point in the first Brillouin zone. The role of electron–phonon interaction in dephasing of anomalous
Rabi oscillations is prominent far away from the Dirac point. There are huge numbers of anomalous Rabi cycles present near the Dirac point.
Modulus Spectroscopy and ac Conductivity of Zn1−xCaxO Ceramics
Authors: Das Tanushree , Das Bikram Keshari , Parashar Kajal , Parashar S. K. S
Published: June 2018

Ca doped ZnO (Zn1−xCaxO, x = 0,0.01 and 0.02) ceramics were synthesized by simple solid state reaction route. Structural characterization was carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique. The modulus and ac conductivity of the synthesized ceramics were
analyzed by an impedance analyzer. The chemical composition of the synthesized ceramics was confirmed by EDX. The analysis of the XRD peaks revealed the hexagonal wurtzite structure, P63 mc space group for all compositions. The absence of extra peaks in the diffraction patterns
indicate that the synthesized ceramics are in single phase. The crystallite size of ZnO decreases with Ca doping and also with increasing concentration of Ca. EDX analysis shows the presence of Ca in ZnO lattice. The frequency dependence imaginary part of modulus suggests the temperature dependent
relaxation phenomena in the synthesized ceramics. The sign of long range to short range transition of charge carriers was observed in Ca doped ZnO ceramics. Increase in Ca concentration enhances the capacitance value of the ceramics. The asymmetric peak broadening in modulus predicts a non-Debye
type of relaxation mechanism. The modulus studies also confirm the single phase formation of the synthesized ceramics. The ac conductivity increases with increase in frequency and temperature for all samples showing their semiconducting nature. The data of conductivity also shows the NTCR
behavior. Again the ac conductivity decreases with Ca doping which may be due to the introduction of defects created by Ca2+ ion in ZnO system.
Green Technology Enabled Graphene Oxide Reduction Using Justichia wynaadensis Extract and Assessment of In Vitro Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Shubha P , Namratha K , Mithali K. C , Divya V , Thakur M. S , Byrappa K
Published: June 2018

Graphene oxide (GO) was reduced using Justichia wynaadensis aqueous extract. GO was mixed with extract and refluxed at 100 °C for 10 h to obtain reduced GO. PXRD of rGO showed broad peak at 2 = 25° and disappearance of 2 = 9.75° after
refluxing which indicates efficient removal of oxygen containing groups. SEM images of rGO showed flaky structures typical of retainment of GO structure with folded curtains like appearance of rGO. UV-vis spectra demonstrated absorption band ~300 nm and shoulder at 400 nm corresponding to
π–π* transitions and C ═ O bonds respectively indicating that rGO is red shifted due to decrease in oxygen functional groups. rGO showed potent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, upon testing against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa.
It showed 67% radical scavenging against DPPH at 500 μg/mL concentration. In conclusion, J. wynaadensis aqueous extract efficiently removed oxygen functionalities from GO surface with significant biological activities.
Nanostructure Evolution and Optical Properties of Silver Doped Diamond Like Carbon Thin Film on Soft Polymer
Authors: Alam Md. Shahbaz , Ghosh Chandan Kumar , Mukherjee Nillohit , Ahmed Sk. Faruque
Published: June 2018

Effect of silver doping on nanostructure evolution and optical properties of diamond like carbon films synthesized on elastomeric polymer of poly-dimenthylsiloxane (PDMS) and silicon substrate via radio frequency reactive sputtering technique were studied in detail. Due to difference
in elastic moduli of PDMS substrate and silver doped diamond like carbon (Ag:DLC) films, a well-defined nanostructure wrinkle pattern have formed on PDMS for releasing the strain energy induced by residually compressed stress in Ag:DLC film. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis revealed
the different bonding information between silver and carbon and the chemical composition of the Ag:DLC films. The introduction of silver in the DLC matrix, decreased the optical transparency as well as the optical band gap from 3.97 to 3.25 eV with a variation of Ag at.% from 0 to 9.2 in the
films. The Urbach parameter calculated from the transmitance data, increased with the increase of the Ag doping percentage.
Fabrication of Zinc Oxide Thin Film Sensor for Carbon Monoxide Gas Detection by Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Jayaraman Vinoth Kumar , Bautista Jacob Morales , Biswal Rajesh Roshan , Bizarro Monserrat , Alvarez Arturo Maldonado , Amador Maria de la Luz Olvera
Published: June 2018

Here, we have reported the thin film preparation of undoped zinc oxide thin films by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis and their gas response characteristics of carbon monoxide (CO). Four thin films of zinc oxide (ZnO) were deposited on glass substrates using a starting solution prepared from
a ball milled precursor. A 0.2 M of zinc precursor (zinc acetylacetonate) was grinded using ball milling for different durations (15, 30, 45, and 60 min) and its effect was studied on gas sensing characteristics along with structural and morphological. Structural properties indicated that
all the undoped ZnO thin films were grown with (002) plane orientation irrespective of milling conditions. Surface morphologies acquired from scanning electron microscopy revealed that milling time influenced in modifying the morphology. The films were formed with different types of hexagonal
structures such as irregular, broken, twisted, and trigonal tipped hexagonals. Additionally, gas response measurements showed that films prepared using less milling time exhibited highest CO gas response, among other films.
Investigation of Structural and Electric Modulus of Lead Hexaferrites Synthesized by Sol–Gel Method
Authors: Prathap S , Madhuri W
Published: June 2018

PbFe12−XO19−δ (0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1) ceramics are synthesized via sol–gel auto-combustion technique and sintered at a temperature of 900 °C for 45 min. using microwave furnace. The XRD confirms the single phase formation
and the crystallite size is found to be varying between 11–45 nm. On the basis of impedance spectroscopic analysis electric modulus under suppression of electrode polarization explained the conduction process in the present system.
A Comparative Study for Detection of Melamine in Solution by Interference Sensing Using Functionalized Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Shah Shrey A , Gundesha Rahul , Ruparelia Jayesh P
Published: June 2018

In this research an attempt has been made for instantaneous sensing of melamine, a potential milk adulterant, at room temperature with the help of bio-functionalized silver nanoparticles. The bio-functionalized nanoparticles were made using leaf extracts of Parthenium hysterophorous
and Calotropis procera. Also these methods were compared with the nanoparticles that were functionalized with sulfanillic acid. Colorimetric change was the basis of sensing the melamine using these bio-functionalized silver nanoparticles. Melamine upto a limit of 0.1 ppm was detected by
the particles prepared using Parthenium hysterophorous leaf extract at room temperature. UV-visible spectroscopy (200–800 nm range) was used to detect the changes in the absorbance of silver nanoparticles with the addition of melamine in different concentrations. DLS studies were
carried out to confirm the presence of nanoparticles and to study their surface morphology during sensing. Comparative study showed that Parthenium hysterophorous (noxious hysterophorous) leaf extract was far better and accurate in detecting melamine and was as accurate as the silver
nanoparticles functionalized with sulfanillic acid. This can be attributed to the fact that Parthenium hysterophorous leaf extract contains caffeic acid which worked as a reducing agent and also as the bio functionalized chemical. Thus, this method can be further used as a rapid detection
of melamine. In addition, this method can be converted into prototype for detection of melamine in industries.
Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Nanostructured Tungsten Nitride Thin Films Prepared by RF Reactive Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Balakrishnan G , Sathiyaraj V , Dinesh M , Chandran P. Naveen , Thamotharan C
Published: June 2018

In the present work, nanostructured tungsten nitride (WN) thin films were deposited by RF reactive magnetron sputtering technique in a mixture of N2 and Argon atmosphere and its microstructure and mechanical properties were investigated. The Argon pressure was kept constant
at 20 sccm, while the N2 partial pressures were varied (3%, 5%, 10% and 15%). The WN thin films are deposited on SS304 stainless steel substrates at a temperature of 500 °C. The microstructural property was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy
(SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) and mechanical properties were evaluated by nanoindentation technique. The XRD studies indicated the formation of different phases as a function of nitrogen content. The hardness and the young’s modulus values were in the range 27–39 GPa
and 239–280 GPa, respectively. The high hardness values correspond to the coatings with the low nitrogen content and vice-versa. The mechanical properties of the tungsten nitride coatings were strongly influenced by the microstructure.
Nano Mechanical Properties of Ceramic Polymer Composite Micro Thruster Developed Using 3D Printing Technology
Authors: Khandekar Pravin , Biswas Kanishka , Kothari Dushyant , Muthurajan H
Published: June 2018

Nano and micro satellites, when revolving around the earth, may drift by very small angle from their orbit. But this small angle drift may result in large deviation from their original orbit over a long distance which these satellite covers over a period of time. For the course correction
of these satellites, very small thrust is required in specific direction. Normal propulsion system cannot serve this purpose, because the thrust may be too large for these satellites. That’s where the role of micro thrusters becomes important. These are MEMS devices which can produce
very small thrust and can be used for nano and micro satellite propulsion. In this study, we have developed micro thrusters using 3D printing technology from ceramic polymer composite. They have been characterized for different nano mechanical properties to study their suitability for propelling
the nano and micro satellite.
Physiochemical Characterization of Herbo-Metallic NanoMedicine-Abhrak Bhasma by Ayurvedic and Novel Techniques
Authors: Harish G , Shivashankar M
Published: June 2018

The Ideal Physicochemical nature of the Bhasma preparation in the Indian System of medicine (ISM) is not as clear required as per the regulatory conditions, hence the analytical studies are one of the significant parts of drug standardization in ISM, such as Siddha, Ayurveda and Unani.
The Metallic medicine used in the treatment of disease in human need scientific community for its Authentication, potential development and regulatory aspects. The Present investigation deals with the Physio-chemical evaluation of the ayurvedic medicine Abhrak bhasma by various traditional
and novel techniques. In ayurvedic procedure the nature of the bhasmahad been studied by various techniques to determine the quantitative and qualitative level for standardization purpose. In the Present study the Bhasma scrutinized for Physical nature by Varna (Colour), Varitara (Floating),
Rekhapurva (furrow filling), Anjana sannibha (softness), Nischandra (Lusterless), Sukshmatva (fineness) and novel techniques such as Nature, Hardness, Solubility, Ash (Acid insoluble), LOD, Assay for determination of percentage silicon dioxide, Heavy metals and arsenic content. The chemical
nature is determined by Amla pareeksha (bitter taste), Gatarasatva (absence of taste), Aksharatwa (absence of alkaline taste), Nirdhuma (absence of smoke) and by novel technique such as SEM, Raman spectroscopy, NMR and EDAX. The Abhrak bhasma fulfilled the traditional and novel standardization
technique and confirm the presence of Metal oxides of Si, Ca, Fe, Al. NMR studies show the presence of characteristic peak. Therefore the quality of the Abhrak bhasma was customary by both traditional and novel standardization technique.
Study of Nanoparticles Impact on the Growth and Exopolysaccharides Production of Epiphytic Bacteria from Seaweeds
Authors: Shofia Saghya Infant , Jayakumar Kannan , Mukherjee Amitava , Chandrasekaran Natarajan
Published: June 2018

Upon entry into the environment, nanoparticles undergo agglomeration and biological or chemical transformation to other chemicals and results in toxic effects on marine biota. The Gulf of Mannar is the richest biological region and is found to be the habitat of seaweed resources. Recent
investigations have established that significant accumulation of nanoparticles (NPs) occurs in aquatic biofilms. The most active fractions of bacteria are known as biofilms. In this study nine bacteria were screened from the surface of 10 different seaweeds and interacted with three nanoparticles
(Silver, Zinc oxide, Titanium dioxide nanoparticles) at four different concentrations (0.1, 1, 10, 100 mg/L) each respectively. It has been found from the experiments that a reduction in the growth, biofilm formation and exopolysaccharides production was noted at higher concentration of nanoparticles
(100 mg/L). Whereas at lower concentration (1, 10 mg/L) growth curve was similar to control but biofilm formation varied. Thus marine bacteria are tolerant to certain concentration of nanoparticles. Though engineered nanoparticles are best suited for various environmental works, it has its
own limitations as it is found to be dangerous finally.
Strong Ultra-Violet Absorption in Cu Doped CeO2 Nanospheres
Authors: Ponnar M , Pushpanathan K
Published: June 2018

This article focuses the synthesis and characterization of copper doped cerium oxide nanospheres synthesized by chemical precipitation method. Synthesized nanopowders were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron
microscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectrometer and photoluminescence spectrometer. X-ray diffraction study confirmed the copper doping without disturbing the face centred cubic structure of cerium oxide. Field emission scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope study also
confirmed the existence of sphere like nanoparticles. The optical absorption spectrum shows that the synthesized samples exhibit strong absorption in ultraviolet region and also it confirmed the decrease in energy gap of cerium oxide on copper doping. The photoluminescence study revealed that
the blue emission is attributed to the fast oxygen transportation of copper doped cerium oxide nanoparticles.
A Classification Algorithm to Reduce Data Redundancy in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Umadevi K. S , Ghosh Arpita , Sam Shalu Achamma
Published: June 2018

Middleware acts in between the application level and the lower level constructs which solve many wireless sensor network challenges. Still, middleware poses a number of issues such as energy constraint of devices, scalability, mobility, heterogeneity, data aggregation, data redundancy,
dynamic networking requirements, security and Quality of Service. If data redundancy is reduced, then data aggregation and energy-related issues in middleware can be solved. An efficient middleware must have the ability to aggregate data from devices in such a way that data redundancy is reduced
and hence, the amount of data transmitted to the sink is decreased. Classification algorithms can be used in middleware to reduce the duplication of data. Here, we use k-nearest neighbour algorithm for classification in order to prevent data redundancy in wireless sensor networks.
Electromechanical Piezoelectric Based Energy Harvesting System
Authors: Thakur Garima , Velmurugan V
Published: June 2018

Energy harvesting is a very attractive method in all the applications where battery replacement or recharging is difficult. We can harvest energy using environmental vibrations caused because of frequencies that are present naturally in our environment. Vibration energy can scavenge
energy from mechanical vibrations to energies low power electronic devices. Low frequencies energy harvesting system can begin to replace batteries in certain wearable devices. As piezoelectric vibration based energy harvester and do not require external voltage and also they are not expensive
making them feasible alternative to implement energy harvesting. In this paper we are investigating a bimorph piezoelectric cantilever geometry by using COMSOL Multiphysics 5.2. Material used is Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT 5A), and stainless steel.
Analysis of Recombinant VP22-SOX2 Fusion Protein Subcellular Location in HepG2 Cell Culture
Authors: Tan Andre Elton Heryanto , Sari Gema Puspa , Triwidyaningtyas Silvia , Bela Budiman
Published: June 2018

Cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) are cell permeable proteins that help facilitate impermeable molecules into the cells. Herpes simplex virus protein VP22 is one of the CPP with mechanism of facilitating proteins into the cells by non-classical Golgi-independent. SRY-related HMG-box
(SOX) family of transcription factors are well associated with the regulation of the development of embryonic cells. Recombinant fusion protein VP22 is hoped to translocate the protein into the cell. The research conducted is an experimental study using VP22-SOX2 as intervention and human
hepatoma HepG2 cells as subject to determine the efficacy of VP22-SOX2. There are 2 main groups: HepG2 cells with VP22-SOX2 incubated for 6 hours and 1 hours, where both are accompanied with the control group in the absence of VP22-SOX2. Both undergo immunostaining using indirect immunostaining
method with antibody specific against SOX2 and observation is done using confocal microscope. Counting the total number of cells and number of cells with the fluorescence is performed using ImageJ program. Based on statistic, there is no significant difference between the experiment and the
control group incubated for 6 hours. In addition, there is no significant difference between experimental group incubated in 6 hours and experimental group incubated in 1 hour. VP22-SOX2 do not achieve statistically significant protein translocation and incubation period has no effect in the
rates of protein translocation. Possible explanation is the requirement of media supplements such as serum replacement needed to stabilize the protein in the prevention of precipitation.
Analysis of Recombinant VP22-OCT4 Fusion Protein Subcellular Location in HepG2 Cell Culture
Authors: Lee Felix , Sari Gema Puspa , Widyaningtyas Silvia Tri , Bela Budiman
Published: June 2018

There are many studies ongoing about the remarkable potential of pluripotent stem cell as the future regenerative therapy. Embryonic stem cell is the only source that has been studied well for it. However, many constraints arise regarding this matter like ethical problems and risk of
cell transplantation rejection. Recently, there are many research undergone in exploring new approach through reprogramming somatic cell to become induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC). OCT4 (Octamer-binding transcription factor 4) is one of the proteins that is responsible for the self-renewal
of embryonic stem cell. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the ability of OCT4 transcription factor, with the help of VP22 (viral protein), to be localized into adult somatic cells (HepG2), which in turn could reprogram it into iPSC. In this study, HepG2 cells are isolated with VP22-OCT4
recombinant fusion protein for 1 hour and 6 hours, which then followed by isolating with mouse monoclonal IgG primary antibody against OCT4 (Ab1) and goat anti-mouse IgG secondary antibody, FITC conjugate (Ab2) respectively for the indirect immunofluorescence staining function. Confocal microscope
is utilized to observe the presence of immunofluorescence. The result of the experiment showed a significant difference between the control and the experimental groups for both incubation period (p = 0.005 for 1 hour and p = 0.000 for 6 hours). Moreover, there is also a significance difference
between the group of HepG2 cells with VP22-OCT4 incubated for 1 hour and 6 hours (p = 0.044). In conclusion, VP22-OCT4 recombinant protein can be translocated inside the HepG2 cells under 1 hour and 6 hours of incubation periods.
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) Effect on Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Rat: Comparison of Malondialdehyde Level of Liver and Blood Plasma
Authors: Azwar Muhammad K , Prijanti Ani R
Published: June 2018

Studies suggested antioxidant properties of the content of Syzygium aromaticum (clove). The study was conducted to obtain better understanding about the effect of clove on concentration of oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver and blood plasma of rat initially
induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4); and whether blood plasma MDA level might represent liver condition. Experimental research was done using 20 Wistar rats classified into 5 treatment groups: (1) CCl4 - and clove-positive treatment after 3 days of clove treatment,
(2) one day after, (3) alpha-tocopherol as positive control, (4) CCl4 only as negative control, and (5) normal control. Wills method was used for MDA concentration measurement. Liver MDA concentration were 0.0262 ± 0.0010 for group 1, 0.0214 ± 0.0047 group 2, 0 for
group 3, 0.0077 ± 0.0094 group 4, and 0.0039 ± 0.0009 control group in nmol/mg protein (p = 0.001), whereas in the blood plasma it was 29.6032 ± 6.8021 for group 1, 26.1103 ± 3.6920 for group 2, 1.1612 ± 0.3555 for group 3, 1.4585 ± 1.4747 for group
4, and 2.4217 ± 1.2382 control group in nmol/mL (p = 0.001). Contrary to study in the past, no antioxidant properties were observed in treatment with dose 200 mg clove/kg body weight of rat. Such treatment increased MDA concentration and enhanced CCl4-induced damage in a
time-dependent fashion. Strong correlation between MDA concentration in the liver and blood plasma (R = 0.97; p = 0.003) suggested blood plasma utilisation to represent hepatic MDA concentration or damage.
Correlation Between Intravesical Prostatic Protrusion with Prostate Volume, Uroflowmetry and International Prostate Symptom Score in Men Over 50 Years Old
Authors: Parikesit D , Mochtar C. A , Rasyid N , Umbas R
Published: June 2018

To evaluate the relationship between IPP, age, prostate volume, uroflowmetry result, PSA, and IPSS. We retrospectively studied 162 patients presenting with LUTS suggestive of BPH between January 2012 and December 2014, analyzing age, IPP, pressure flow study, prostate volume, PSA, and
International Prostate Symptom Score. IPP was classified into three stages: grade 1 (≤5 mm), grade 2 (5 mm < IPP ≤ 10 mm), and grade 3 (>10 mm). Statistical analysis included Kruskall-Wallis with Mann-Whitney as post hoc analysis and Spearman’s correlation coefficients were
performed. The mean age was 67±7.7 years old. Achieved IPP values were the following: grade 1–40 (24.7%), grade 2–60 (37%), and grade 3–62 (38.3%). Results show statistically significant difference between IPP grades Qmax, PVR, and PV (p ≤ 0.05).
Mean difference between IPP groups were significant using Mann-Whitney post hoc test for Qmax, PVR, and PV between IPP group 1 and 2, PV between IPP group 1 and 3, and Qmax, PVR, and PV between IPP group 2 and 3. Spearman’s correlations coefficient show positive
correlation between IPP and PV (r = 0.506, p ≤ 0.05), PVR (r = 0.341, p ≤ 0.05), and PSA (r = 0.253, p ≤ 0.05). Intravesical prostate protrusion measured through abdominal ultrasound are a non-invasive and accessible method that significantly correlates
with peak flow rate (Qmax), prostate volume, post void residue, and prostate specific antigen.
Design Model of Deep Stacking Network for Breast Cancer Prediction Using Microarray
Authors: Hanifah Nurul , Wasito Ito , Sabarguna Boy Subiroso
Published: June 2018

Breast cancer diagnosis currently relies on clinical information, image radiology and histopathology. However molecular biology aspect needs to be considered for accurate diagnoses. Microarray technology allows the analysis of thousands of gene expression to be used as additional information
for breast cancer diagnosis. This study aims to use microarray for breast cancer diagnosis by using machine learning. Machine learning is widely used for pattern analysis and can be used for microarray dataset, such as deep stacking network (DSN). Design of DSN is stacked each of base module
which using a simple form of the multilayer perceptron. Using DSN is suitable for complex data like microarray dataset because it has a deep architecture (deep learning). Furthermore, DSN model does not use stochastic gradient descent which is difficult to be implemented on large scale of
machine learning. In Indonesia, microarray technology is still not well known, therefore the current studies only use secondary data from cancer patients overseas. DSN which is a deep learning model is suitable to be used for microarray dataset that has a complex structure. Suggested for subsequent
study using primary data from patient cancer in Indonesia so that the design model will be more suitable to be implemented for cancer patients in Indonesia.
Development of Clinical Learning Environment Measure in the Undergraduate Medical Program
Authors: Findyartini Ardi , Utami Denita Biyanda
Published: June 2018

The quality of clinical training for undergraduate medical students is greatly influenced by the clinical learning environment. To our knowledge, there has been limited measurement of clinical learning environment that utilizes tools considering specific contexts for medical students
in Indonesia. Objective: This study aims to develop a questionnaire to evaluate the clinial learning environment of undergraduate medical students in Indonesia. A cross sectional study was conducted with four stages: a. Development of questionnaire items, b. Review of panel experts,
c. Pilot study to non-targeted medical students, and d. Administration of the questionnaire to medical students and psychometric evaluation. A qualitative analysis on the experts’ comments was conducted. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was also completed. A total of 29 experts provided
suggestions on the clarity and relevance of the developed items. Pilot study involved 31 non-targeted medical students. A total of 253 4th and 5th year FMUI undergraduate medical students completed the questionnaire. The EFA suggested 6 components which are perceptions on: 1. Learning opportunities
and engagement; 2. Interactions with patients during clinical rotation; 3. Communication and interactions with colleagues and supervisors; 4. Facility and individual treatment; 5. Supervision process; 6. Self-confidence and awareness. A total of 10 items were removed given inadequate loading
on to factors and crossloadings. The reliability of the 60 item questionnaire is excellent (Cronbach alpha 0.95). The study has developed and validated a 60 item Indonesian questionnaire to measure undergraduate medical students’ perceptions on their clinical learning environment. The
future use is expected to facilitate benchmarking of clinical learning environment for undergraduate medical students in Indonesia.