bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pinguicula x gresivaudanica (Lentibulariaceae), a new butterwort hybrid from the French Alps
Authors: Roccia Aymeric
Published: February 2022

A new natural hybrid of Pinguicula is here reported from the French Alps. It proceeds from the natural crossing of P. grandiflora Lam. subsp. rosea (Mutel) Casper with P. vulgaris L. subsp. vulgaris. The newly recorded hybrid is named Pinguicula × gresivaudanica because of the region where it has been discovered. The characters distinguishing this hybrid from other taxa are described, together with figures, a distribution map and a table. Fertility and chromosome number were also studied, supporting the hybrid nature of this plant.
Nepenthes khasiana's chitin-induced pitcher liquid: a potential treatment for opportunistic fungal infection
Authors: Brown Jessica
Published: February 2022

The endangered tropical pitcher plant Nepenthes khasiana has evolved mechanisms to lure, capture, and digest prey animals. Under special circumstances, Nepenthes pitcher liquid will also contain potent antifungal compounds called naphthoquinones. Their purpose, it is believed, is to prevent captured prey from being consumed by fungi, a competing organism. For hundreds of years, naphthoquinones have been utilized in Asia and South America for medicinal purposes. In the United States, emerging studies are investigating how these compounds can be produced, as well as their efficacy against opportunistic human fungal pathogens. The importance of this research is underscored by the limited variety of antifungal drugs that are commercially available, as well as their susceptibility to pathogenic resistance and crosstolerance.
Determination of Energy Dependence Level Density Parameter and its Application in Fission Products Calculation of Pu-238
Authors: Waris Abdul , Kurniadi Rizal , Perkasa Yuda S. , Suwoto Suwoto
Published: February 2022

The energy dependence of level density parameter has been calculated using extended wood-saxon potential. The extended version of potential has deep well parameter that is independent to the nucleon density. The potential is pure central interaction. Although the potential is different from mean field theory, it gives the better result than that of the reference input parameter library-2 (RIPL-2). The application of the level density parameter results in small discrepancies from ENDF results. This method has been adopted in example for calculating fission products of Pu-238.
A Comparison of Zinc and Carbon Doped on the Atomic Interdiffusion of InGaAs/AlGaAs Quantum Wells Laser Structures After Annealing
Authors: Gareso Paulus L.
Published: February 2022

We have compared a zinc and a carbon doped on the atomic interdiffusion of InGaAs/AlGaAs after annealing using Electrochemical capacitance voltage (EC-V), X-ray diffraction and photoluminescence (PL) measurements. Electrochemical capacitance voltage measurements revealed that the carrier concentration in the Zn-doped p++GaAs contact layers decreased after annealing at 900oC for 60 sec, indicating that some of the Zn acceptors were passivated or outdiffused from the surface. In contrast to the C-doped samples, an increase of carrier concentration was observed after annealing. X-ray rocking curve confirmed this result where the amount of lattice contraction increase after annealing which is attributed to the presence of the substitutional carbon CAs. Photoluminescence results showed that a large energy shift was observed in the Zn-doped samples compare with C- doped samples. Photoluminescence measurements after etching to various depth showed similar luminescence defects in both Zn- and C-doped samples. Photocurrent measurements showed the quality of quantum well was improve after annealing in C-doped samples due to activation of carbon doped.
Effect of Alkali Compound on Morphology and Luminescence Intensity of Europium-doped Yttria
Authors: Astuti Astuti , Abdullah Mikrajuddin , Khairurrijal Khairurrijal
Published: February 2022

Luminescent particles of europium-doped yttria (Y2O3:Eu) have been synthesized by heating nitrous precursors in a solution of polyethylene glycol (PEG) matrix containing alkali compound (LiOH, NaCl, KCl, and CaCl2). High luminescence intensity at around 612 nm contributed by electron transitions in Eu3+(5D0 → 7F0, 5D0  → 7F1,5D0 → 7F2, and 5D0 → 7F3) were observed. The highest intensity was observed in samples prepared using Li compound, but he smallest particle size was observed in samples prepared using Ca compound. This approach is promising for production of submicrometer down to nanometer-sized Y2O3:Eu particles that have both small in particle sizes and high luminescence intensity which is potential for use in development of luminescence ink that can be adapted to the current ink jet printing technology.
Precision Mechanical Measurement Using the Levitation Mass Method (LMM)
Authors: Fujii Yusaku , Jin Tao , Maru Koichi
Published: February 2022

The present status and the future prospects of a method for precision mass and force measurement, the levitation mass method (LMM), are reviewed. The LMM has been proposed and improved by the authors. In the LMM, the inertial force of a mass levitated using a pneumatic linear bearing is used as the reference force applied to the objects under test, such as force transducers, materials or structures. The inertial force of the levitated mass is measured using an optical interferometer. The three typical applications of the LMM, i.e. the dynamic force calibration, the micro force material tester and the space scale, are reviewed in this paper.
Energy of One-Dimensional Diatomic Elastic Granular Gas:Theory and Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Khotimah Siti Nurul , Viridi Sparisoma , Widayani Widayani , Waris Abdul
Published: February 2022

One-dimensional ideal diatomic gas is simulated through possible types of motions of its molecule. Energy of each type of its motion is calculated by both theoretical and numerical methods. Analytical calculation of kinetic energy of an atom in translational-vibrational motion is not simple, but it can be solved by numerical method using molecular dynamic simulation. This paper justifies that the kinetic energy of a diatomic molecule can be determined by two different approaches which give the same results. In the first approach, the kinetic energy is calculated as a summation of kinetic energy of each atom. In the second approach, the kinetic energy is calculated as a summation of kinetic energy of translational and vibrational motions.
Conductivity Effect on the Capacitance Measurement of a Parallel-Plate Capacitive Sensor System
Authors: Anaraki Peyman Azimi
Published: February 2022

In this article design and operation of a parallel-plate capacitive sensor based on the dielectric capacitance and conductance change of the gap medium is reported. The designed system was used to determine characteristics of different water liquids as a result of the capacitance variations. The air gap capacitance is measured and then by filling the gap with a liquid the capacitance is monitored for different liquids. Proposed sensor is used for the distilled, tap, boiled, and salt water measurements and the capacitance results are compared. A big difference about 45.5µF in capacitance values for the salt and distilled water shows a high sensitivity, which can be used to recognize different water liquids. The experimental results are promising for water liquids and verify the successful operation of such a device as a liquid sensor, a useful method for checking the electrical quality of the water that is required for different applications.
Dynamical Evolution of Sub-km Sized Main-belt Asteroids with Involving Thermal Radiation Effects
Authors: Dermawan Budi , Fermita A.
Published: February 2022

Inconsistencies between asteroid’s evolutionary model and observational results have been convincingly explained by thermal radiation effects that cause asteroids to experience orbital drifts. To investigate influences of the effects, we conducted 10 million yr orbital integration of hypothetical sub-km sized Main-belt asteroids. Numerical integration was run to propagate orbital dynamics of the asteroids by taking into account typical physical parameters of regolith- and basaltic-type surfaces of asteroids. Delivery processes from the Main-belt asteroids to near-Earth space are occurred by the aids of planetary orbital resonances and gravitational perturbations. In general, we find that thermal radiation effects play as an important role in the early evolution (< 1 million yr), which guide the asteroids to follow different evolutionary paths than those of without involving the effects. This study indicates that asteroids whose surface belongs to basaltic-type have higher orbital mobility.
Life Cycle Integration of Building Information Modeling in Infrastructure Projects
Authors: Guo Xingzhou , Tian Chi , Xiao Jinwu , Chen Yunfeng , Zhang Jiansong
Published: February 2022

Building Information Modeling (BIM) can provide solutions to many challenges of asset management, such as missing data, incompatible software, and an unclear business process. However, current implementation of BIM in infrastructure projects has only considers limited factors, such as technology application and digital information delivery, while issues of system compatibility and information needs are still missing. Different aspects of a business are interdependent and an incompatible development of various factors might result in different levels of BIM implementation or even project failure. Comprehensive research is needed to explore the key factors and challenges of BIM implementation in infrastructure projects. This study conducted interviews and surveys with key stakeholders of infrastructure projects to explore the challenges and potential solutions of BIM implementation. Interviews were conducted with 37 professionals and surveys were conducted with 102 professional stakeholders, including owners, designers, contractors, and software vendors. Four main factors, challenges, and potential solutions were identified from content analysis of the interviews and further validated by the surveys. These factors include process factor (when), technology factor (how), people factor (who), and information factor (what). Corresponding solutions are proposed to refine the current workflow and practices.
Designing Active Disturbance Rejection Control of Permanent Magnetic Spherical Actuator Based on Nonlinear Extended State Observer
Authors: Guo Xiwen , Liao Xianda , Wang Qunjing , Wen Yan , Wu Tao
Published: February 2022

Aiming at the problems of low control precision and poor anti-disturbances ability of permanent magnet spherical actuator (PMSA), an active disturbance rejection trajectory tracking control method based on nonlinear extended state observer (NESO) is proposed in this paper. Firstly, the multivariable and strong coupling mathematical model of the PMSA is obtained by rigid body rotation coordinate transformation and the Lagrange dynamic equation. Then, the tracking differentiator is used to reduce the influence caused by the expected trajectory jump. In addition, NESO is designed to observe and calculate coupling of the system, external disturbance, and model error online. Finally, the nonlinear control law is used to compensate for the observed disturbance, and the stability is proved based on the Lyapunov equation. Simulation and experimental results show that the proposed control scheme can achieve decoupling and tracking control of the complex system in the presence of model error, random disturbance, and other uncertain factors, has good control accuracy and response speed, and has strong robustness to uncertain disturbances.
CHARACTERIZATION OF RASASINDURA: A METALLIC PREPARATION USED IN AYURVEDIC MEDICINE PREPARED BY TWO DIFFERENT METHODS
Authors: Sawant R S , Savrikar S S
Published: February 2022

Rasasindura [RS] is a unique mercurial formulation prepared by the Kupi-pakwa Rasayana method, widely used by the physicians of Ayurveda in various diseases. Parada (Mercury) and Gandhaka (Sulphur) are prime ingredients of Rasasindura; however, their proportion varies from formulation to formulation, ranging from 1:1/6 to 1:6. Characterization of the drug helps develop its pharmacopeial standards. An attempt was made to characterize the prepared samples of Samaguna Rasasindura [RSM] & Shadguna Rasasindura [RSD] by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Field Emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Particle size distribution (PSD) with zeta potential & Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). A significant difference was observed between the pharmacopeial characteristics of Samaguna and Shadaguna balijarita Rasasindura. Variation in the pharmacopeial characteristics is believed to cause the difference in therapeutic actions of two formulations of Rasasindura, which may result from variation in the proportion of ingredients.
DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF A TOOL TO ASSESS ASSOCIATED FEATURES OF MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: D S Vinod , Patil Usha
Published: February 2022

Aim and objectives: The study aimed to develop assessment criteria for clinical features associated with mild cognitive impairment. The aim was to create and validate a questionnaire based on concepts approved by Ayurveda experts to assess patients with memory complaints associated or not associated with MCI. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in two sections in Vaidyaratnam P.S Varier Ayurveda College and Hospital, Kottakkal. The first section was to frame a new questionnaire based on experts' approved concept and validate it. A literary survey to establish the role of tridosha in the concepts of cognition with various pathological states discussed in Ayurveda was done. Four concepts were identified from analyzing the classical textbooks of Ayurveda. Three rounds of consensus building were done, and 98% consensus was obtained in considering prabuta dosha in Rasa dhatu as the critical determinant of MCI. Based on the above findings, item generation was performed to develop and validate a questionnaire to assess prabuta dosha in intellectual impairment as a part of developing the Ayurvedic perspective of MCI. The tool was systematically developed through different stages, from conceptualization to factor analysis. Face validity, content validity, reliability measures were also done. Results and Conclusion: The prabuta dosha assessment questionnaire was developed and validated to assess associated clinical features of cognitive disturbances.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ENTERIC-COATED TABLETS OF BISACODYL
Authors: Reddy Srikanth , Alagarsamy V , Chandra Bose P Subhash , Sruthi V , Saritha D
Published: February 2022

The present study aims to design and formulate the enteric-coated tablets of bisacodyl and comply with the physicochemical properties per BP limits. The wet granulation technique prepared the formulations. As a result of the studies, the blend of all formulations showed good flow properties such as angle of repose, bulk density, tapped density, Carr’s index, Hausner’s ratio. The prepared tablets were indicated suitable post-compression parameters like Hardness, Thickness, weight variation, friability, content uniformity, disintegration time, In vitro dissolution studies. In the FTIR studies, all the excipients were tested for compatibility with the drug, revealing that no physical and chemical interaction occurred. The drug release rate from tablets was studied using the USP type ΙΙ dissolution test apparatus. The dissolution medium was 900 ml of 0.1N HCL at 100 rpm at a temperature of 37±0.5 ?C. The formulation F7 consisting of Solutab was best among all the formulations; it has exhibited a faster disintegrating time (2 min and 17 sec.) compared to other formulations.
Determination and Evaluation of Heavy Metal Concentration in Surface Water and Sediment from Orashi River in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Okwodu N. E. , Okorie P. U. , Nwoke B. E. B.
Published: February 2022

The research was intended to study the influence of human and industrial activities on the Orashi River. Three groups are observed to have impacted the environment – Oil/gas industries, tyre burning (smokes and ashes) released during roasting of slaughtered animals in abattoir, untreated human and animal waste from settlers and the abattoir.  The study was carried out from September 2019 to August 2020. The mean concentrations of the parameters studied in some samples were close to or exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv) recommended limits for drinking water and seafood. The results from this study have provided information on the heavy metals profile on the surface water and sediment of the river.  Essential heavy metals detected in water were in the range of Cu (1-5.4mg/l), Zn (1-4.4mg/l) and Fe (0.1 – 1.8 mg/l) which were within the WHO (1989), USEPA (1986), FEPA (1999) permissible limit of 3mg/l. The non-essential metals investigated were Cd, Cr and Pb but only Cd was detected. Cd levels (0.1-0.8mg/l) were slightly high, above the  permissible limit of 0.01mg/l. Heavy metals in sediment were higher than those in the water body, occurring in the sequence Zn>Cu>Fe >Cd. The ranges were Zn (1.4-5mg/kg), Cu (0.8-3mg/kg), Fe (0.4-4.9mg/kg) and Cd (0.5-1.8mg/kg). All relationship were statistically significant (p=0.05). With regards to seasonal variation, dry season recorded higher values than rainy season. Heavy metals in sediment were higher than those in the water body, occurring in the sequence Zn>Cu>Fe >Cd. The ranges were Zn (1.4-5mg/kg), Cu (0.8-3mg/kg), Fe (0.4-4.9mg/kg) and Cd (0.5-1.8mg/kg).  Cd and Fe in water and sediment have higher concentration during the dry season while Cu and Zn are higher during the rainy season in both parameters during the study period. Increased level of pollutants in the Orashi River may have significant effect on the ecological balance of the River. Again, long term bioaccumulation through food chain is a major concern as this study had revealed that sediment act as sink of pollutant loads than the water samples.
Safety Chemical Residues of Protected Crops against Insect Pest Infestation on Health Care Delivery and Environment, a Review
Authors: Azeez O. M.
Published: February 2022

The use of pesticides for effective pests control has generated a lot of concerns relating to public health and environmental pollution. Nigerian cocoa production is still dependent on pesticides to attain acceptable levels of crop production. Kola nuts need no further processing before consumption hence little or no chemical residue therein will be acceptable, perhaps sparingly chemical should be used for storage pests. The screening of new insecticides, fungicides and herbicides, new spraying pumps are usually evaluated by the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), for their efficiency before they are recommended for use in the application of cocoa pesticides and spraying equipment in Nigeria. Accordingly, Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has reviewed the maximum residue levels (MRLs) currently established at European level for the pesticide active substance like chlorpyrifos. Therefore, to assess the concentration of chlorpyrifos residues in plants, processed commodities and rotational crops EFSA considered the conclusions derived in the framework of Directive 91/414/EEC, the MRL s established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. However, the indices to national Maximum Residue Level (MRL) regulations on pesticides affecting agricultural and food trade were employed using a science-based criteria embodied in Codex Alimentarius international standards. The consumer risk assessment is considered and measures for reduction of the consumer exposure were also considered.
Impact of STCR Based Nutrient Application on Dry Matter Accumulation, Partitioning of Potassium in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and Potassium Fractions in Black Cotton Soil of Central India
Authors: Choudhary Saroj , Singh Baghel Shekhar , Choudhary Sunita , Rani Mukta , Devika O. Siva , Singh Arjun , Patra Abhik
Published: February 2022

Chemical fertilizers used by the majority of Indian farmers are based on a generalized recommendation that overlooks soil fertility and crop response. These broad recommendations frequently result in under- or over-fertilization, resulting in reduced productivity, efficiency, and environmental pollution. To address these issues, the STCR-target yield approach appears to be promising. However, the dynamics of potassium (K), an important primary essential nutrient, is not fully understood under STCR based approach. Therefore, our current study was aimed to profile the dynamics of potassium in rice parts and its different forms in vertisol. The present study was conducted at the soil science research farm of Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, a part of AICRP on the effect of soil test and crop response based nutrient management on potassium partitioning in rice crop and its fractions in vertisol of Madhya Pradesh. The treatments comprised of T1 : Control (no fertilizer application); T2 : General recommended dose (120:60:40 N, P2O5 and K2O kg ha-1); T3 : Targeted Yield 50 q ha-1 (115:90:49 N, P2O5 and K2O kg ha-1);  T4 : Targeted Yield 60 q ha-1 (157:125:70 N, P2O5 and K2O kg ha-1);  T5 : Targeted Yield 50 q ha-1 with 5 t FYM ha-1 (115:90:49 N, P2O5 and K2O kg ha-1); and T6 : Targeted Yield 60 q ha-1  with 5 t FYM ha-1 (157:125:70 N, P2O5 and K2O kg ha-1). Partitioning of K into different parts of rice was anlaysed and the result showed that T6 has a significant effect on it. Highest concentration of K in root, leaves, stem, panicle and grain (0.353, 1.730, 2.510, 0.441 and 0.275%, respectively) was found in T6. STCR based fertilizer with 5 tonnes FYM ha-1 application significantly influenced the different fractions of soil K and the maximum available potassium, which is present in the form of water-soluble, exchangeable, and non-exchangeable forms, equilibrium with each other, were also found to be maximum in treatment T6. The study based on STCR demonstrated that STCR based integrated use of fertilizers and manure for targeting yield can produce targeted yield without deteriorating soil fertility.
Phytochemicals and Comparative antimicrobial activities of D. velutinum, S. nodiflora, and Honey against Micro-Organism of Public Health Importance
Authors: Onyeka Ifeanyi Peter , Onyegbule Felix Ahamefule , Ifeoma Ibe Chioma, , Markben Adione Nnamdi , Obodike Ezugwu Christopher
Published: February 2022

Antimicrobial resistance is a global public health challenge with numerous implications. A growing number of infections are becoming harder to treat due to resistance to the antibiotics used to treat infectious diseases leading to multidrug resistant strains as typically seen in staphylococcus aureus. Microbial resistance to antibiotics has been on the increase leading to increased infection therefore this study evaluated the antimicrobial profile of D. velutinum, S. nodiflora and honey against the multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Shigella spp, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and a fungus; Candida albicans which causes different diseases leading to public health implications using standard laboratory procedures.

The result showed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, phlobatanins, saponins, proteins, carbohydrates and anthocyanins across the three samples (D. velutinum, S. nodiflora and honey). The result from the findings showed a dose dependent activity against the selected organisms. It showed that D. velutinum had the best activity against P. aeruginosa, Shigella spp and C. albicans which implied that D. velutinum could be harnessed for the treatment of urinary and joint infections caused by P. aeruginosa and other infections such as shigellosis and candidiasis. The findings showed that S. nodiflora has the best minimum inhibition concentration of 1 against E. coli and S. typhi respectively.

This finding also, suggests that S. nodiflora can be harnessed as an alternative treatment of infectious diseases caused by S. aureus, E. coli and S. typhi and therefore we hereby conclude that plant-based drugs remain an alternative source of therapeutic agents against multidrug resistant micro-organism of public health importance.
Role of Molecular Markers in Identification and Characterization of Chickpea Variety
Authors: Sharma Kajal , Puranik Nidhi , S. Bhagyawant Sameer
Published: February 2022

Chickpea is the second most significant legume grain, growing in 14.80 mhs regions all over the world. It contributes roughly 14.24 million people to the global food basket each year. Desi and Kabuli chickpeas are widely grown in India, and both cultivars have distinct physiochemical characteristics such as seed size and shape, hydration capacity, coat thickness, and protein content. The genetic basis of chickpea cultivars has been limited as a result of agricultural techniques. Molecular markers, on the other hand, have proven to be useful tools for accurate quantification and characterisation within plant species. Markers can be an excellent way to improve chickpeas quantitatively because they are a high source of protein and constitute 80% of total dry weight. Markers such as RAPD (Random amplified polymeric DNA), SSR (Single sequence repeat), AFLP (amplified fragment length polymorphism) and ISSR (Inter simple sequence repeat) have aided in improving breeding efficiency and thus promoting the generation of new species, as well as increasing yield, stress tolerance, and disease resistance. The goal of this review article is to understand the role of various molecular markers in identification, characterization and to know the role of molecular marker how to improve the chickpea variety.
Green Synthesis of Copper Nanoparticles Using Ginger Oleoresin and Evaluation of its Anticancer Activity against Liver Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Kumar Raja , Roy Anitha , Rajeshkumar S. , Raghunandhakumar S. , Thangavelu Lakshmi
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Nanotechnology is getting used in developing countries to assist, treat disease, and stop health issues. Nanotechnology in addition to nanomedicine is being applied to or developed for application to a spread of commercial and purification processes. Ginger, scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, belongs to the family Zingiberaceae.

Aim: The aim of the study was to green synthesis copper nanoparticles using ginger oleoresin and to evaluate its cytotoxic activity against liver cancer cells.

Materials and Methods: The Ginger oleoresin was obtained from Synthite Industries Private Limited, Kerala with a product code: 4010000370 was used for the study. Copper nanoparticles were prepared from oleoresin and confirmed using UV-Visible spectroscopy. The prepared copper nanoparticles were then evaluated for the anticancer effect on liver cancer cells using the method of  Mosmann. The cells (1 × 105 cells per ml) were seeded in a 96 well microtiter plate (100 μl per well) with replications. Different concentration  (control, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 60 μg/ml) of ginger oleoresins mediated copper nanoparticles were tested for the anticancer activity. The percentage of cell viability was calculated.

Results: Dose-dependent anticancer activity was observed with ginger oleoresins mediated copper Nanoparticles. The IC 50 value  was 30 mg / ml

Conclusion: In the present study, ginger oleoresin showed a good activity cytotoxic effect on liver cancer cell lines. However, more research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms of the cytotoxic property of the ginger plant.
Evaluation of Anticancer Effect of Lippia nodiflora Leaf Extract on Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Ashritha M. , Elumalai P. , Raghunandhakumar S. , Lakshmi T. , Roy Anitha
Published: February 2022

Background: Lung cancer, also known as bronchogenic carcinoma, is a kind of cancer that begins in the lung parenchyma or inside the bronchi. In the United States, it is one of the top causes of cancer-related fatalities. Lippia nodiflora is a flowering, broadleaf plant native to South America. Lippia nodiflora has been used as a natural medicine for a number of disorders due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-tumor characteristics.

Aim of the Study: To evaluate the anticancer effect of Lippia nodiflora leaf extract on lung cancer.

Materials and methods: The cytotoxic effect of Lippia nodiflora leaf extract was assessed by an MTT assay. The A-549 cells were treated with different concentrations of Lippia nodiflora leaf extract (10-120 μg) for 24h. Analysis of changes in the cell morphology is examined by phase contrast microscope. For the nuclear morphological changes analysis, DAPI staining was used in lung cancer cells. The apoptotic nuclei were viewed under a fluorescent microscope.

Results: In our study, Lippia nodiflora leaf extract treated cells showed significant reduction of cell viability in lung cancer cells. 50% of the inhibition was observed in a 20 μg/ml concentration, which has been taken as the inhibitory concentration (IC-50) which was used for further analyses. The pro-apoptotic effect of Lippia nodiflora leaf extract in A549 cell line was determined by DAPI staining under a fluorescence microscope. Lippia nodiflora leaf extract treatment alters the nuclear morphology and condensed nuclei in lung cancer cells at 20μg/ml concentration.

Conclusion: Overall, it can be concluded that Lippia nodiflora presents anticancer activity at 20μg/ml concentration at 24 hrs againstthe lung cancer cell line. However, further research is warrented to find out the molecular mechanism of cytotoxicity of effect this plant extract against lung cancer.
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity of White Pepper Oleoresin Mediated Selenium Nanoparticles
Authors: Saivarshine S. , Roy Anitha , Rajeshkumar S. , Thangavelu Lakshmi
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Indian spices such as turmeric, ginger, and mint bring color and flavor to food and cure many ailments too.

Aim: To study the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of white pepper oleoresin-mediated selenium nanoparticles.

Materials and Methods: The white pepper oleoresin extract was collected from Synthite Industries Pvt Limited, with a product code - 4010000835. Selenium nanoparticles were initially prepared using white pepper oleoresin and DPPH assay was performed on the different concentrations of white pepper oleoresin (10, 20, 30, 40, 50 μg/ml) for antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammatory activity was tested by the following method proposed by Muzushima and Kabayashi with specific alterations.

Results: White pepper has shown a very good anti-inflammatory effect and antioxidant activity when compared to the standard used at higher concentrations. Selenium nanoparticles appeared to have 90 percent inhibition in 50μL, which was also higher than the standard. Selenium nanoparticles seemed to have 85 percent inhibition in 50μL, which was also lower than the standard.

Conclusion: The present study has demonstrated an eco-friendly and cost-effective synthesis of Selenium nanoparticles using White pepper oleoresin. White pepper oleoresin mediated Selenium nanoparticles were with good anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity which may be utilized include for its use in inflammatory and other conditions where there is a requirement for antioxidant activity.
GIACOMO LEOPARDI E FRANCESCO DE SANCTIS SOBRE O PAPEL DO VOCABOLARIO DELLA CRUSCA NO LIMIAR DA RENASCENÇA
Authors: Rusconi Fabrizio
Published: February 2022

O intuito desse artigo é aprofundar o pensamento de Giacomo Leopardi e Francesco de Sanctis, dois autores fundamentais do romantismo italiano. Ambos, no decorrer de sua atividade crítica e intelectual abordaram, em diferentes momentos, do ponto de vista histórico, a questão da língua italiana e da sua origem e formação, refletindo acerca da influência que o Vocabolario della Crusca e seus acadêmicos tiveram sobre a língua e sobre a literatura italiana. Leopardi dedica numerosos comentários do seu Zibaldone di pensieri (1817-1832) à questão da língua e ao Vocabolario della Crusca; De Sanctis, igualmente, considera a temática da Crusca e das suas políticas linguísticas na Storia della letteratura italiana (1870-71).
ANOTAÇÕES SOBRE O NEOMEDIEVALISMO EM CANTIGAS DE AMARES, DE LEDA MARIA MARTINS
Authors: Samyn Henrique Marques
Published: February 2022

O presente artigo tenciona apresentar algumas considerações acerca de uma pesquisa em construção, cujo objeto central são composições poéticas presentes no livro Cantigas de amares, da escritora brasileira Leda Maria Martins. O artigo resgata as condições de emergência da investigação, no âmbito da trajetória acadêmica do pesquisador proponente; apresenta alguns apontamentos sobre o conceito de neomedievalismo na poesia brasileira, conforme proposto por Maria do Amparo Tavares Maleval; e expõe, em linhas gerais, a questão central da investigação proposta, ilustrando-a com alguns apontamentos iniciais sobre o poema intitulado “Cantiga 1”.
BATUCADA NO MORRO: A PRESENÇA DA RODA DE SAMBA NO CONTO ANA DAVENGA, DA AUTORA CONCEIÇÃO EVARISTO
Authors: Da Silva Arlene Batista , De Oliveira Ana Carla Soares
Published: February 2022

Este artigo tem como objetivo levantar discussões acerca da presença da roda de samba no conto Ana Davenga (1995), de Conceição Evaristo, a partir dos aspectos da tradição histórica. Inicialmente, reconhece-se a importância do samba como forma de divertimento para as comunidades afro-brasileiras, tendo em vista as influências culturais oriundas da África. Assim, busca-se apoio nos referenciais teóricos de Hermano Vianna na obra O Mistério do Samba (1995), Feitiço Decente (2012) de Carlos Sandroni, O terreiro e a Cidade (2002), de Muniz Sodré, entre outros. No conto Ana Davenga, a roda de samba compõe o espaço da narrativa como o lugar de divertimento e alegria ao passo das batucadas. Ancorado em uma análise literária, este artigo trouxe resultados reflexivos sobre as relações interartes – literatura e música, com destaque para o legado deixado pelos povos em nossa tradição musical.
Evaluation of the Applicability of 50 N Rails to Sharp Curves on Mountain Railway Tracks
Authors: Park Jongchan , Eum Kiyoung , Lim Namhyoung
Published: February 2022

Currently, a mountain railway system using existing mountain roads is being developed in Korea. Considering the alignment of domestic mountain roads with many sharp curves, the maximum radius of curvature of the mountain railway is about 10 m. Therefore, the 50 N rail applied to the track structure of the mountain railway must be manufactured with a radius of curvature of 10 m at the factory. In this study, the material properties of 50 N Rails were analyzed through indoor tests and the behavioral characteristics according to bending processing (R = 10 m) were analyzed to evaluate their applicability to sharp curves on mountain railways.
Emergency Interconnection Operation Efficiency Based on Reservoir Capacity
Authors: Kim Taewook , Lee Seungyub , Kim Joong Hoon
Published: February 2022

In the case of a reservoir failure, emergency interconnection operation can be initiated to supply water to the isolated block from an adjacent reservoir (s). Emergency interconnection operation is an effective solution to continue water service; however, no clear standards have been established. In this study, the relationship between the reservoir capacity and the supply performance of emergency interconnection operation was identified and explored. Four scenarios were constructed for a water distribution system located at S-City, and the efficiency was quantified using availability, which is calculated by the A-PDA model. The results show that a larger capacity of an adjacent reservoir results in higher availability. Another set of scenarios was used to evaluate the supply performance of emergency interconnection operation with similar-capacity reservoirs, either independently or simultaneously. In the case of a separate connection, the availability was approximately 50%; however, it increased to 70% when both reservoirs were connected simultaneously. It was confirmed that it is efficient to operate an emergency connection with a larger reservoir. However, recovery from the emergency interconnection operation is inversely proportional to the availability itself; therefore, careful planning is required when the duration of the emergency interconnection operation is expected to be long.
A Study on Earthquake Loading to Secure Safety During Railway Bridge Construction
Authors: Choi Young-Hown , Jang Bong-Hee , Kim Jung-hyun , Lee Tae-Gyu
Published: February 2022

Railway bridges are widely built based on the national railway network and maintenance plans. As in the case of an earthquake in Pohang, the seismic safety of constructions in Korea is very important in the prevention of disasters. Therefore, the cases of damage caused by earthquakes and additional horizontal forces during bridge superstructure constructions were investigated among domestic and foreign earthquakes, and the details of overseas related design standards were confirmed. The horizontal forces based on the domestic seismic design standard (KDS 24 17 10: 2016) on the PSC beam, PSC box, steel box, and wind load were compared with the design codes based on the Eurocode 8 (Part 2), Japan Railway Technical Research Institute (RTRI), Japan Society of Civil Engineers (JSCE), and East Japan Railway Company (JR East).
Selecting Rivers for Management Via Pollution Impact Evaluation of Tributaries of the Geumho River
Authors: Shin Sangmin , Bae Hunkyun , Shim Kyuhyun , Kim Seongmin
Published: February 2022

The water quality of the Geumho River is greatly affected by pollution such as domestic sewage and industrial wastewater from residential and industrial facilities. Therefore, an attempt was made to determine the effects of pollution from these sources by targeting the Geumhogang River basin and selecting tributaries of the Geumhogang River for study. The pollution status and contribution of the Geumho River tributaries were analyzed using concentration, delivery load sharing rate, index analysis via index conversion and summation by water quality parameter, and water quality index evaluation. The rivers chosen to be subject to priority management may differ depending on the evaluation method used, but overall the Dalseocheon and Namcheon stream were shown to have the greatest influence on the water quality of the Geumhogang River although Omokcheon Stream also required water quality management. One plan to properly manage the water quality of the Geumho River should focus on setting priorities for the tributaries. For tributaries with high pollutant concentrations, a method to set and manage different water quality factors for each stream individually should be considered.
Recommendations and Action Plans to Improve Ex Situ Nutrition and Health of Marine Teleosts
Authors: Williams Scott , Stoskopf Michael , Francis-Floyd Ruth , Koutsos Liz , Dierenfeld Ellen , Harmon Todd , Cicotello Eileen , German Donovan , Semmen Kent , Keaffaber Jeffery , Olea-Popelka Francisco , Livingston Shannon , Sullivan Kathleen , Valdes Eduardo
Published: February 2022

The International Workshop for Ex-Situ Marine Teleost Nutrition and Health, hosted by Disney's Animals, Science and Environment in conjunction with the Comparative Nutrition Society, brought together over 50 animal experts and scientists representing 20 institutions to review current science and identify challenges of marine teleost nutrition and health. Invited speakers presented critical information and current research topics for areas of emphasis and expertise. Subject matter experts identified knowledge gaps and primary areas of focus to guide the scientific community's research efforts to improve the care of ex situ marine teleosts. The clinical medicine working group highlighted standardized approaches to ante- and postmortem sample collection, diet biosecurity and supplementation, advanced diagnostic methods, and expanded training in fish nutrition. Nutrition identified the creation of a husbandry and feeding management manual, comprehensive feeding program review and design, and specialty feeder/life stage nutrition as areas of focus, while animal husbandry focused on body condition scoring, feed delivery techniques, and behavioral husbandry topics. The physiology and chemistry and water quality working groups discussed components of the aquatic environment and their effects on fish health, including organic matter constituents, microbial diversity, disinfection, and managing microbiota. Finally, we reviewed how epidemiological approaches and considerations can improve our evaluation of aquarium teleost nutrition and health. The goals outlined by each working group and supporting literature discussion are detailed in this communication and represent our goals for the next 3 to 5 years, with the ultimate objective of the workshop being the production of a husbandry manual for marine teleost nutrition and health. Any scientists who feel that their experience, research, or interests align with these goals are invited to participate by contacting the authors.
Attention‐guided duplex adversarial U‐net for pancreatic segmentation from computed tomography images
Authors: Li Meiyu , Lian Fenghui , Li Yang , Guo Shuxu
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Segmenting the organs from computed tomography (CT) images is crucial to early diagnosis and treatment. Pancreas segmentation is especially challenging because the pancreas has a small volume and a large variation in shape.

Methods

To mitigate this issue, an attention‐guided duplex adversarial U‐Net (ADAU‐Net) for pancreas segmentation is proposed in this work. First, two adversarial networks are integrated into the baseline U‐Net to ensure the obtained prediction maps resemble the ground truths. Then, attention blocks are applied to preserve much contextual information for segmentation. The implementation of the proposed ADAU‐Net consists of two steps: 1) backbone segmentor selection scheme is introduced to select an optimal backbone segmentor from three two‐dimensional segmentation model variants based on a conventional U‐Net and 2) attention blocks are integrated into the backbone segmentor at several locations to enhance the interdependency among pixels for a better segmentation performance, and the optimal structure is selected as a final version.

Results

The experimental results on the National Institutes of Health Pancreas‐CT dataset show that our proposed ADAU‐Net outperforms the baseline segmentation network by 6.39% in dice similarity coefficient and obtains a competitive performance compared with the‐state‐of‐art methods for pancreas segmentation.

Conclusion

The ADAU‐Net achieves satisfactory segmentation results on the public pancreas dataset, indicating that the proposed model can segment pancreas outlines from CT images accurately.
Versatile Polymer‐Initiating Biomineralization for Tumor Blockade Therapy
Authors: Jiang Zhongyu , Liu Yang , Shi Run , Feng Xiangru , Xu Weiguo , Zhuang Xiuli , Ding Jianxun , Chen Xuesi
Published: February 2022

Tumor blockade therapy is a promising penetration‐independent antitumor modality, which effectively inhibits the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and information between the tumor and surrounding microenvironments. However, the current blockade therapy strategies have limited antitumor efficacy due to defects of inadequate tumor obstruction, possible side effects, and short duration. For these reasons, a facilely synthesized versatile polymer 1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine–N‐poly(ethylene glycol)–alendronate (DSPE‐PEG‐ALN, DPA) is developed to initiate the formation of biomineral shell around osteosarcoma as a potent physical barrier. The DSPE moiety shares a similar chemical structure with the cytomembrane, allowing the membrane insertion of DPA. The bisphosphonic acid groups in ALN attract ions to realize biomineralization around cells. After injection in the invasive osteosarcoma tissue, DPA inserts into the cytomembrane, induces continuous mineral deposition, and ultimately builds a physical barrier around the tumor. Meanwhile, ALN in DPA alleviates bone destruction by suppressing the activity of osteoclasts. Through hindering the exchange of necessary substances, the biomineralization coating inhibits the growth of primary osteosarcoma and pulmonary metastasis simultaneously. Therefore, the multifunctional polymer‐initiating blockade therapy provides a promising modality for tumor inhibition in clinics with high efficacy and negligible side effects.
Dry Printing and Additive Nanomanufacturing of Flexible Hybrid Electronics and Sensors
Authors: Ahmadi Zabihollah , Lee Seungjong , Patel Aarsh , Unocic Raymond R. , Shamsaei Nima , Mahjouri‐Samani Masoud
Published: February 2022

The growing demand for flexible and wearable hybrid electronics has triggered the need for advanced manufacturing techniques with versatile printing capabilities. Complex ink formulations, use of surfactants/contaminants, limited source materials, and the need for high‐temperature heat treatments for sintering are major issues facing the current inkjet and aerosol printing methods. Here, the nanomanufacturing of flexible hybrid electronics (FHE) by dry printing silver and indium tin oxide on flexible substrates using a novel laser‐based additive nanomanufacturing process is reported. The electrical resistance of the printed lines is tailored during the print process by tuning the geometry and structure of the printed samples. Different FHE designs are fabricated and tested to check the performance of the devices. Mechanical reliability tests including cycling, bending, and stretching confirm the expected performance of the printed samples under different strain levels. This transformative liquid‐free process allows the on‐demand formation and in situ laser crystallization of nanoparticles for printing pure materials for future flexible and wearable electronics and sensors.
Differentiate Thermal Property of Mammary Glands for Precise Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Fang Yuxin , Zheng Weijie , Peng Yuxuan , Liu Jianhua , Gao Jianshu , Tu Yi , Sun Shengrong , Huang Xiaona , She Jinjuan , Chen Chuang , Xu Shen , Yue Yanan
Published: February 2022

As an alternative to conventional methods, photothermal therapy is promising in breast cancer therapy. It is essential to prevent overheating of normal tissues and underheating of target tissues, which strongly depends on thermal transport processes. In this work, for the first time, the thermal properties of mammary glands in pubertal and mature mice is accurately measured. Thermal conductivity of mammary gland in pubertal mice is measured as W m−1 K−1, slightly higher than that of fat (0.17 W m−1 K−1), which is the main component of connective tissue in mammary glands. However, with the growth and pregnancy of mature mice, thermal conductivity of mammary gland increases to  W m−1 K−1, 66.84% higher than that of pubertal mice. Numerical simulations are conducted to understand the role of thermal conductivity in photothermal therapy. The maximum temperatures in mammary glands of pubertal and mature mice are 49.6 and 44.6 °C, respectively, under the same laser irradiation conditions. This implies that higher thermal conductivity in mature mice mammary glands might lead to ineffectiveness in reaching to the desired temperature. This work suggests that age and pregnancy affect the thermal properties of mammary glands which are not negligible in breast cancer photothermal therapy.