bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Struktur Vegetasi Kawasan Hutan Alam dan Hutan Rerdegradasi di Taman Nasional Tesso Nilo
Authors: Kusumo Andi , Nur Bambang Azis , Izzati Munifatul
Published: September 2016

ABSTRAK Hutan Tesso Nilo merupakan kawasan dengan tingkat keanekaragaman tanaman berpembuluh dan merupakan habitat bagi satwa terancam punah yaitu harimau sumatera (Panthera tigris sumatrae) dan gajah sumatera (Elephas maximus sumatranus). Kawasan ini tidak luput dari kegiatan perambahan dan di konversi menjadi perkebunan dan permukiman. Pembukaan lahan hutan akan mengakibatkan rusaknya fungsi hutan dan mengakibatkan musnahnya berbagai jenis flora dan fauna. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui akibat yang ditimbulkan oleh perambahan hutan terhadap strukur vegetasi kawasan hutan. Metode yang digunakan adalah survei dengan menggunakan sampling vegetasi petak dalam jalur dilokasi hutan alam dan hutan terdegradasi akibat perambahan. Hasil dianalisis untuk mengetahui kelimpahan vegetasi, indeks nilai penting dan indeks keanekaragaman (Shannon-Wiener). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perambahan hutan mengakibatkan terjadinya perubahan pada struktur vegetasi. Perambahan mengakibatkan penurunan jumlah kelimpahan vegetasi, nilai keanekaragaman, dan dominansi jenis (indeks nilai penting) baik pada tingkat semai, pancang, tiang dan pohon. Kata kunci: Taman Nasional Tesso Nilo, struktur vegetasi, perambahan ABSTRACT Tesso Nilo forest is an area with a greater diversity of vascular plants and habitat for an endangered species, namely the Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae) and the Sumatran elephant (Elephas maximus sumatranus). This area was not spared from encroachment and conversion to plantations and settlements. Forest clearing will cause damage to forest functions and lead to the extinction of various species of flora and fauna. The purpose of this study was to determine the consequences caused by the encroachment of the structure of forest vegetation. The method used was a survey by sampling vegetation plots in the path of the location of natural forests and forests degraded due to encroachment. The results were analyzed to determine the abundance of vegetation, an index of the importance and diversity index (Shannon-Wiener). The results showed that deforestation resulted in a change in the structure of vegetation. Encroachment degrades an abundance of vegetation, the value of diversity, and dominance type (Importance Value Index) is good for seedlings, saplings, poles and trees. Keywords:  Nasional Park of Tesso Nilo, vegetation structure Cara sitasi: Kusumo, A., Bambang, A. N., Izzati, M. (2016). Struktur Vegetasi Kawasan Hutan Alam dan Hutan Rerdegradasi di Taman Nasional Tesso Nilo. Jurnal Ilmu Lingkungan,14(1),19-26, doi:10.14710/jil.14.1.19-26
Variasi Genetik pada Pertumbuhan Tanaman Konservasi Sumberdaya Genetik Cendana (Santalum album Linn.) Populasi Pulau Timor Bagian Timur
Authors: Sumardi Sumardi
Published: September 2016

ABSTRACT Sandalwood (Santalum album Linn.) Is a native species of East Nusa Tenggara that have high economic value because it contains oil in the hardwood that is used as a raw material for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. However, sandalwood population in East Nusa Tenggara has declined severely caused of massive exploitation in the past without accompanied by the success of replanting. Excessive exploitation impact on the decreasing of genetic diversity. Conservation was initiatied by the Forestry Research Institute of Kupang in 2012 with Eastern Part of Timor Island as a genetic material source. This study was aimed to investigate the genetic variation of plant growth on sandalwood (Santalum album linn.) genetic conservation from Eastern Part of Timor Island until 8 months after planting. The research was designed using Incomplete Block Design (IBD), consists of 25 families, single treeplot and 10 blocks as replicates. The variance analysis showed there was no significant difference between the families tested and the average height and diameter growth of test plants respectively 51,02 cm and 4.70 mm. The families heritability (h2f)  estimation of height is 0.70 high category and the diameter is 0.53 medium category.   Key words : Population, conservation, variation, heritability ABSTRAK Cedana (Santalum album Linn.) merupakan jenis tanaman asli Nusa Tenggara Timur yang memiliki nilai ekonomi tinggi karena kandungan minyak atsiri pada kayu terasnya yang digunakan sebagai bahan baku industri kosmetik dan obat-obatan. Namun demikian populasi jenis ini di Nusa Tenggara Timur telah mengalami penurunan sangat tajam, akibat eksploitasi besar-besaran dimasa lalu yang tidak dibarengi keberhasilan penanaman kembali. Kondisi tersebut berdampak pada keragaman genetik cendana yang pernah ada di NTT. Tindakan konservasi mulai dilakukan oleh Balai Penelitian Kehutanan Kupang pada tahun 2012 yang berasal dari populasi Pulau Timor bagian Timur. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui variasi genetik pertumbuhan tanaman pada plot konservasi sumberdaya genetik cendana populasi Pulau Timor bagian Timur sampai dengan umur 8 bulan setelah penanaman. Penelitian disusun dengan rancangan Incomplete Block Design (IBD) yang terdiri dari 25 famili, single treeplot dan 10 blok sebagai ulangan. Hasil analisis varian tidak menunjukkan adanya perbedaan nyata antar famili yang diuji dengan nilai rerata pertumbuhan tinggi dan diameter masing-masing sebesar 51,02 cm dan 4,70 mm. Taksiran nilai heritabilitas famili (h2f) untuk tinggi sebesar 0,70 termasuk kategori tinggi dan diameter sebesar 0,53 termasuk kategori sedang. Kata kunci : populasi, konservasi, cendana, variasi, heritabilitas. Cara sitasi: Sumardi. (2016). Variasi Genetik pada Pertumbuhan Tanaman Konservasi Sumberdaya Genetik Cendana (Santalum album Linn.) Populasi Pulau Timor Bagian Timur, 14(1),27-31, doi:10.14710/jil.14.1.27-31
Biaya Pengurangan (Marginal Abatement Cost) Emisi Gas Rumah Kaca(GRK) Sektor PErtanian di Kabupaten Grobogan dan Tanjung Jabung Timur
Authors: Ariani Miranti , Setyanto P. , Ardiansyah M.
Published: September 2016

ABSTRAK Komitmen Pemerintah Indonesia untuk penurunan emisi GRK sebesar 26% sampai 2020, melibatkan keikutsertaan daerah secara aktif. Penelitian ini bertujuan menganalisis opsi-opsi mitigasi pada pengelolaan lahan sawah yang mungkin dilakukan dengan menggunakan pendekatan Marginal Abatement Cost atau biaya pengurangan emisi yang berprinsip pada pemilihan aksi mitigasi dengan biaya rendah dan potensi penurunan yang besar. Lokasi penelitian dipilih secara purposive yaitu di Kabupaten Grobogan Propinsi Jawa Tengah dan Kabupaten Tanjung Jabung Timur Propinsi Jambi pada tahun 2013 untuk analisis tahun 2011. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan teknologi mitigasi yang berpotensi besar menurunkan emisi GRK dengan biaya rendah di Kabupaten Grobogan adalah penerapan teknik budidaya padi dengan penerapan Pengelolaan Tanaman Terpadu (PTT) dan penggantian varietas padi dengan varietas padi yang rendah emisi GRK. Sementara di Kabupaten Tanjung Jabung Timur, teknologi ameliorasi dengan kompos, pupuk kandang dan penerapan teknologi tanpa olah tanah+tanam benih langsung merupakan teknologi mitigasi yang memiliki potensi besar menurunkan emisi dengan biaya yang rendah. Kata kunci: pertanian, gas rumah kaca, biaya pengurangan emisi, mitigasi ABSTRACT The Indonesian government's commitment to decrease GHG emissions by 26 % until 2020, actively involve local government’s participation. This study aims to analyze mitigation options inpaddy fields management that may be performed by using the approach of Marginal Abatement Cost with the principle of selecting mitigation actions with low cost and high potential emission decrease. Locations were selected purposively in Grobogan Central Java Province and East Tanjung Jabung Jambi in 2013 for 2011 data analysis. The results show mitigation activity such as low methane rice varieties and Integrated Crop Management could be applied at Grobogan with low cost, while using amelioration such as compost or manure and non tillage+direct seeded could be applied at East Tanjung Jabung with low cost as well. Keywords: agriculture, greenhouse gas, marginal abatement cost, mitigation Cara sitasi: Arianti, M., Setyanto, P., Ardiansyah, M. (2016). Biaya Pengurangan (Marginal Abatement Cost) Emisi Gas Rumah Kaca(GRK) Sektor PErtanian di Kabupaten Grobogan dan Tanjung Jabung Timur. Jurnal Ilmu Lingkungan. 14(1),39-49, doi:10.14710/jil.14.1.39-49
Air dan Konflik: Studi Kasus Kabupaten Timor Tengah Selatan
Authors: Jocom Hary , D Kameo Daniel , Utami Intiyas , Kristijanto A. Ign.
Published: September 2016

ABSTRAK Secara perhitungan teknis, antara ketersediaan air dan kebutuhan air per kapita mencukupi di Kabupaten Timor Tengah Selatan (TTS) Provinsi Nusa Tenggara Timur, namun permasalahan aksesibilitas yang menyebabkan terjadinya kekeringan dibeberapa wilayah. Penelitian ini dilakukan di Kecamatan Kolbano dan Kualin, Kab. TTS bertujuan pembuktian teori Homer-Dixon dan Gleick tentang konflik berbasis sumber daya alam. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwapertama, ketidakadilan akses terhadap sumber daya air tidak menimbulkan konflik antar masyarakat, dan kedua, tidak terjadi migrasi besar dari wilayah langka air ke wilayah lain. Faktor yang melandasiadalah adanyanilai-nilai budaya yang masih dipercaya dan dijaga, sehingga mampumenciptakan harmoni sosial. Temuan empirik ini menjadi sebuah penemuan teori baru dari pengembangan teori Homer-Dixon dan Gleick yang menyatakan bahwa kelangkaan sumber daya alam/air menimbulkan konflik, namun tidak terjadi dalam konteks masyarakat di Kec. Kolbano dan Kualin, dan wilayah lain di Kab. TTS.   Kata kunci: Kelangkaan air, konflik, sumberdaya air, sumber daya alam ABSTRACT In technical calculations, between water availability and water demand per capita is sufficient in Timor Tengah Selatan (TTS) East Nusa Tenggara province, but the problem of accessibility caused drought in some areas. This research was conducted in the District Kolbano and Kualin, Kab. TTS aims at proving the theory Homer-Dixon and Gleick about natural resource-based conflicts. The results showed that the first, inequality in access to water resources does not generate conflicts between communities, and second, there was no major migration of water-scarce region to region. Factors underlying is their cultural values ​​are still believed and guarded, so as to create social harmony. These empirical findings into a discovery of a new theory of the development of the theory of Homer-Dixon and Gleick stating that the scarcity of natural resources / water conflict, but did not occur in the context of the community in the district Kolbano and Kualin, and other areas in the district TTS.   Keywords: Conflict, natural resources, water resources, water scarcity Cara sitasi: Jocom, H., Kameo, D.D., Utami, I., dan Kristijanto, A.I. (2016). Air dan Konflik: Studi Kasus Kabupaten Timor Tengah Selatan. Jurnal Ilmu Lingkungan. 14(1),51-61, doi:10.14710/jil.14.1.51-61
Characterization of monochlorobenzene contamination in soils using geostatistical interpolation and 3D visualization for agrochemical industrial sites in southeast China
Authors: Ren Lixia , Lu Hongwei , He Li , Zhang Yimei
Published: September 2016

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) originating from agrochemical industries have become an urgent environmental problem worldwide. Ordinary kriging, as an optimal geostatistical interpolation technique, has been proved to be sufficiently robust for estimating values with finite sampled data in most of the cases. In this study, ordinary kriging interpolation integrate with 3D visualization methods is applied to characterize the monochlorobenzene contaminated soil for an agrochemical industrial site located in Jiangsu province. Based on 944 soil samples collected by Geoprobe 540MT and monitored by SGS environmental monitoring services, 3D visualization in terms of the spatial distribution of pollutants in potentially contaminated soil, the extent and severity of the pollution levels in different layers, high concentration levels and isolines of monochlorobenzene concentrations in this area are provided. From the obtained results, more information taking into account the spatial heterogeneity of soil area will be helpful for decision makers to develop and implement the soil remediation strategy in the future.
Turbidity measurements as a tool of monitoring and control of the SBR effluent at the small wastewater treatment plant – preliminary study
Authors: Mucha Zbigniew , Kułakowski Przemysław
Published: September 2016

The paper presents preliminary results of investigations on a relationship between turbidity and other quality parameters in the SBR plant effluent. The laboratory tests demonstrated a high correlation between an effluent turbidity and a total suspended solids (TSS) concentration as well as between TSS and COD. Such a relationship would help to continuously monitor and control quality of a wastewater discharge using turbidity measurement.
Culturable airborne bacteria and isolation of methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci from outdoor environments on European side of Istanbul, Turkey
Authors: Sivri Nüket , Bağcıgil Arzu Funda , Metiner Kemal , Şeker Dursun Zafer , Orak Selin , Durak Sevgi Güneş , Sönmez Vildan Zülal
Published: September 2016

This study is aimed to investigate culturable airborne bacteria concentrations and the composition of methicillin-resistant staphylococci in eleven different locations on the basis of specific activities conducted within different parts of the European side of Istanbul. The highest bacterial levels were observed at the Bakirkoy station (1 100 CFU/m3) while the second highest levels were found at the Bahcelievler station (1 040 CFU/m3) in October; the lowest levels (10 CFU/m3) were measured at other different stations (Atakoy, Yesilkoy). Fifteen methicillin-resistant isolates [Staphylococcus hominis (n=11), S. cohnii spp. cohnii (n=2), S. sciuri (n=1), S. capitis spp. capitis (n=1)] were identified. The disc diffusion method was used to identify the antimicrobial resistance of these isolates, it was observed that the most common resistance was to penicillin (P) (n=11), doxycycline (DO) (n=4) and tetracycline (T) (n=5). None of the isolates was resistant to imipenem, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, vancomycin (IPM, AMC, VA). However, multiple antimicrobial resistance was found to be 26.7%. The results of this study revealed the importance of isolated methicillin-resistant staphylococci in the stations with densely active human population and traffic, for public health. As a result, the importance of resting along known shorelines, where culturable airborne bacteria concentrations are much lower, and its importance for human health have been emphasized.
Ulam–Hyers stabilities of a generalized composite functional equation in non-Archimedean spaces
Authors: Narasimman Pasupathi , Rassias John Michael
Published: September 2016

In this paper, we introduce a new generalized composite functional equation and prove its Hyers–Ulam–Rassias stability, Ulam–Găvruta–Rassias stability and Ulam–J. Rassias stability in non-Archimedean normed spaces using a fixed point method.
Thermal Comfort Properties of Clothing Fabrics Woven with Polyester/Cotton Blend Yarns
Authors: Özdemir Hakan
Published: September 2016

In this research, thermal and water vapor resistance, components of thermal comfort of 65/35 and 33/67% polyester/ cotton (PES/CO) blend fabrics woven with 2/2 twill, matt twill, cellular and diced weaves, which are commonly used for clothing, were determined. The results indicate that both the fabric construction and the constituent fiber properties affect thermal comfort properties of clothing woven fabrics. Cellular weave, which is derivative of sateen weave and diced weave, which is compound weave, has the highest thermal resistance appropriating for cold climatic conditions. On the other hand, the 2/2 twill weave and matt twill weave, which is derivative of sateen weave, depicted the lowest water vapor thermal resistance, making it convenient for hot climatic conditions. Besides, fabrics woven with 65/35% PES/CO blend yarns have higher thermal resistance, so they are suitable for cold climatic conditions. Fabrics woven with 33/67% PES/CO blend yarns have lower water vapor resistance, so they are convenient for hot climatic conditions.
The Open Geospatial Consortium and Industrie 4.0
Authors: Goldschmidt Thomas , Simonis Ingo
Published: September 2016

Standardization is a major part of the current Industrie 4.0 activities. Dealing with spatial data, i.e., the location of
assets and products is required in Industrie 4.0 to support use cases such as indoor navigation to support service
technicians. In this article we analyze standards for spatial data and services defined by the Open Geospatial Consortium
(OGC) can be used within Industrie 4.0.
Overeducation, Overskilling and Mental Well-being
Authors: Zhu Rong , Chen Linfeng
Published: September 2016

This paper estimates the effects of overeducation and overskilling on mental well-being in Australia. Using fixed-effects (FE) panel estimations, our analysis shows that overeducation does not significantly affect people’s mental well-being. However, overskilling has strong detrimental consequences for mental well-being. Using a panel data quantile regression model with FE, we show that the negative effects of overskilling are highly heterogeneous, with larger impact at the lower end of the distribution of mental well-being. Furthermore, our dynamic analysis shows that the damaging effects of overskilling are transitory, and we find evidence of complete mental well-being adaptation one year after becoming overskilled.
Changes in the levels of kynurenic acid and selected proinflammatory cytokines after pharmacological treatment and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in patients with depressive disorder
Authors: Olajossy Marcin , Potembska Emilia , Skoczeń Nikodem , Olajossy Bartosz , Urbańska Ewa
Published: September 2016

The aim of the present study was to compare the concentrations of KYNA, 3-OH-KYN and the cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 in patients with depression vs. healthy controls as well as in patients with depression treated pharmacologically vs. those treated using ECT. We also evaluated the relationship between the concentrations of KYNA, 3-OH-KYN and the cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 and clinical improvement measured on the MADRS scale in patients treated pharmacologically and those treated with ECT.

Subjects and methods: The study group comprised 29 patients aged 28 to 60 years with a diagnosis of a major depressive episode. Eleven of the patients received pharmacological treatment and 18 were treated with ECT.

Patients were assayed for serum levels of KYNA and the cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α. Clinical improvement was measured on the MADRS depression rating scale and the clinical global impression (CGI) scale.

Results: Significant differences were found in KYNA levels between depressive patients and healthy controls. Pharmacological treatment significantly contributed to the increase in KYNA levels and ECT – to the increase in TNF-α levels in depressive patients.

Conclusions:

Depressive patients have significantly lower concentrations of KYNA than healthy individuals

Depressive patients who have undergone pharmacological treatment have significantly higher KYNA concentrations than before treatment.

Depressive patients who have undergone ECT treatment have significantly lower TNF-α concentrations than before treatment.

High pre-treatment levels of IL-6 are associated with a lower MADRS improvement index in pharmacologically treated patients with depression.
Expression, regulation and function of intestinal drug transporters: an update
Authors: Müller Janett , Keiser Markus , Drozdzik Marek , Oswald Stefan
Published: September 2016

Although oral drug administration is currently the favorable route of administration, intestinal drug absorption is challenged by several highly variable and poorly predictable processes such as gastrointestinal motility, intestinal drug solubility and intestinal metabolism. One further determinant identified and characterized during the last two decades is the intestinal drug transport that is mediated by several transmembrane proteins such as P-gp, BCRP, PEPT1 and OATP2B1. It is well-established that intestinal transporters can affect oral absorption of many drugs in a significant manner either by facilitating their cellular uptake or by pumping them back to gut lumen, which limits their oral bioavailability. Their functional relevance becomes even more apparent in cases of unwanted drug-drug interactions when concomitantly given drugs that cause transporter induction or inhibition, which in turn leads to increased or decreased drug exposure. The longitudinal expression of several intestinal transporters is not homogeneous along the human intestine, which may have functional implications on the preferable site of intestinal drug absorption. Besides the knowledge about the expression of pharmacologically relevant transporters in human intestinal tissue, their exact localization on the apical or basolateral membrane of enterocytes is also of interest but in several cases debatable. Finally, there is obviously a coordinative interplay of intestinal transporters (apical–basolateral), intestinal enzymes and transporters as well as intestinal and hepatic transporters. This review aims to give an updated overview about the expression, localization, regulation and function of clinically relevant transporter proteins in the human intestine.
Differential contribution of reaction time and movement velocity to the agility performance reflects sport-specific demands
Authors: Zemková Erika
Published: September 2016

Purpose

This study estimates the contribution of reaction time and movement velocity to the reactive agility time while covering varied distances.

Methods

A total of 95 athletes of karate, hockeyball and soccer participated in a simple reaction, two choice reaction, step initiation and reactive agility test.

Results

Agility time was significantly better in karate-kumite than karate-kata practitioners when covering a distance of 0.8 m (8.2%, p = 0.045), better in hockeyball players than goalies when covering a distance of 1.6 m (10.9%, p = 0.028) and better in soccer players than goalies when covering a distance of 3.2 m (14.2%, p = 0.009). Movement velocity to agility time contributed to a lesser degree in the case of karate-kata competitors, hockeyball and soccer players (33.5%, 28.3%, and 19.9% respectively) than the karate-kumite competitors, hockeyball and soccer goalies (44.2%, 42.7%, and 39.4% respectively). Furthermore, both simple and two choice reaction times were highly related to the agility time when covering distances of 0.8 m, 1.6 m, and 3.2 m (r in range from 0.72 to 0.88). Movement velocity also significantly correlated with the agility time in the test with a distance of 0.8 m (r = 0.76) but not with longer movement distances of 1.6 (r = 0.61) and 3.2 m (r = 0.52).

Conclusions

Reaction time and movement velocity differentially contribute to the agility time in athletes of varied specializations. This reflects their specific demands on agility skills, and therefore should be addressed in agility testing in order to identify an athlete’s weakness.
Relationship between impulsiveness and tactical performance of U-15 youth soccer players
Authors: Cabral de Andrade Marcelo Odilon , Figueiredo Machado Guilherme , Teoldo Israel
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between impulsiveness and tactical performance of U-15 youth
soccer players.

Methods

The sample comprised 100 U-15 youth soccer players. Impulsiveness and tactical performance were
assessed using the Continuous Performance Test-II (CPT-II) and the System of Tactical Assessment in Soccer (FUT-SAT), respectively.
FUT-SAT enables evaluation of ten core tactical principles of soccer game: (i) penetration; (ii) offensive coverage; (iii)
depth mobility; (iv) width and length; (v) offensive unity; (vi) delay; (vii) defensive coverage; (viii) balance; (ix) concentration;
and (x) defensive unity. Impulsiveness values were obtained using the Omission and Commission Error analysis. Tactical performance
values were obtained through the Game Tactical Performance Index (GTPI), Offensive Tactical Performance Index (OTPI)
and Defensive Tactical Performance Index (DTPI). The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test and Spearman’s Correlation one were performed
(p < 0.05) through SPSS, v. 22

Results

We observed a positive correlation between impulsiveness and GTPI (rho = 0.226; p = 0.018).

Conclusions

It is concluded that impulsiveness is related to tactical performance of U-15 youth soccer players.
Evaluation of laterality in the snowboard basic position
Authors: Staniszewski Michał , Zybko Przemysław , Wiszomirska Ida
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Snowboarding requires a lateral positioning of the body. Moreover, a person must continuously control their balance
and use this in order to manoeuvre on the slope applying properly pressure on the lower limb closest to the nose of the board
(the leading leg). The present study is an attempt to determine the interdependencies between side preference while snowboarding
and laterality when performing other tasks. The dynamic stability in the neutral standing position, as well as in the lateral positions
(left or right) was also evaluated

Methods

The survey participants (100 active snowboarders) answered a set of questions
concerning laterality while carrying out basic everyday tasks and while doing sports. The respondents were divided into two
groups based on their preferred leading side in snowboarding. Additionally, in the case of 34 people, muscle torques values of
the lower limbs were measured under static conditions and the postural stability was evaluated using AccuSway AMTI platform
and Biodex Balance System platform.

Results

Over 90% of the participants declared right-handedness and right-footedness.
However, with regard to snowboarding, only 66% indicated their right leg as leading. No significant dependence was found
between the directional stance on the board and the leading hand, dominant leg, or leading eye. The stability measurements
revealed statistically significant differences between the neutral stance and the lateral positioning

Conclusions

Based on the
study results, it may be assumed that the declared directional stance on the snowboard is not contingent on the person’s basic
laterality, and that the lateral stance on the board significantly affects the posture control.
High temperature EPR study of the M3Fe4V6O24 (M = Cu, Zn, Mg and Mn)
Authors: Guskos Niko , Zolnierkiewicz Grzegorz , Typek Janusz , Pilarska Malwina , Aidinis Constantinos , Blonska-Tabero Anna
Published: September 2016

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra of M3Fe4V6O24 (M = Cu, Zn, Mg and Mn) compounds in high temperature range (293 K to 493 K) have been investigated. The role of magnetic (Cu, Mn) and non-magnetic (Zn, Mg) ions in M3Fe4V6O24 structure in formation of magnetic resonance spectra was studied. Temperature dependence of EPR parameters: resonance field, linewidth and integrated intensity were examined. Similarities and differences in temperature behavior of these parameters has been discussed in terms of different relaxation mechanisms and magnetic interactions in the spin systems. An important role of additional magnetic ions (M = Mn or Cu) in the M3Fe4V6O24 structure has been identified and its consequences considered.
Investigation on nonlinear optical and dielectric properties of L-arginine doped ZTC crystal to explore photonic device applications
Authors: Anis Mohd , Hussaini S.S. , Shirsat M.D. , Muley G.G.
Published: September 2016

The present study is focused to explore the photonic device applications of L-arginine doped ZTC (LA-ZTC) crystals using nonlinear optical (NLO) and dielectric studies. The LA-ZTC crystals have been grown by slow evaporation solution technique. The chemical composition and surface of LA-ZTC crystal have been analyzed by means of energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and surface scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. The Vicker’s microhardness study has been carried out to determine the hardness, work hardening index, yield strength and elastic stiffness of LA-ZTC crystal. The enhanced SHG efficiency of LA-ZTC crystal has been ascertained using the Kurtz-Perry powder SHG test. The closed-and-open aperture Z-scan technique has been employed to confirm the third order nonlinear optical nature of LA-ZTC crystal. The Z-scan transmittance data has been utilized to calculate the superior cubic susceptibility, nonlinear refractive index, nonlinear absorption coefficient and figure of merit of LA-ZTC crystal. The behavior of dielectric constant and dielectric loss of LA-ZTC crystal at different temperatures has been investigated using the dielectric analysis.
Titanium nitride coatings synthesized by IPD method with eliminated current oscillations
Authors: Chodun Rafał , Nowakowska-Langier Katarzyna , Zdunek Krzysztof
Published: September 2016

This paper presents the effects of elimination of current oscillations within the coaxial plasma accelerator during IPD deposition process on the morphology, phase structure and properties of synthesized TiN coatings. Current observations of waveforms have been made by use of an oscilloscope. As a test material for experiments, titanium nitride TiN coatings synthesized on silicon and high-speed steel substrates were used. The coatings morphology, phase composition and wear resistance properties were determined. The character of current waveforms in the plasma accelerator electric circuit plays a crucial role during the coatings synthesis process. Elimination of the current oscillations leads to obtaining an ultrafine grained structure of titanium nitride coatings and to disappearance of the tendency to structure columnarization. The coatings obtained during processes of a non-oscillating character are distinguished by better wear-resistance properties.
Synthesis of PVDF/SBT composite thin films by spin coating technology and their ferroelectric properties
Authors: Chen Changchun , Hu Pengfei , Yang Jun , Liu Zixuan
Published: September 2016

Ferroelectric composite thin films of x-SBT/PVDF with different SBT content (weight ratios of SBT to PVDF, x = 0 %, 5 %, 10 %, 15 %, 20 %) were prepared by spin-coating method. The crystal structures of x-SBT/PVDF films were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), respectively. Experimental results demonstrated that both α, β-phases PVDF and the layered perovskite SBT co-existed in the x-SBT/PVDF samples. With an increase of SBT content in the x-SBT/PVDF thin films, both the dielectric constant and the saturated polarization were also increased, compared with those of pure PVDF thin film. More importantly, when the SBT content in the x-SBT/PVDF thin films was larger than 15 %, the coercive field of x-SBT/PVDF thin films was also decreased.
Effect Y substitution on the microstructure, transport and magnetic proprieties of Bi2Sr2Ca1Cu2O8+δ superconducting ceramics
Authors: Menassel S. , Mosbah M.-F. , Boudjadja Y. , Altintas S.P. , Varilci A. , Terzioglu C.
Published: September 2016

In high Tc superconductors (HTSC) the activation energy gives information about the pinning properties of a sample under applied magnetic field. Pinning of vortices determines the critical current density Jc which is of great importance for practical applications of HTSC. Instead of magnetic measurements, the activation energy may be calculated from resistivity measurements realized under magnetic field. This kind of measurement has been made in this work for yttrium doped samples of Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+d (Bi-2212) for different values of applied magnetic field. Samples of Bi2Sr2Ca1-xYxCu2O8+d (x = 0, 0.025, 0.1, 0.25) were prepared by a sol-gel method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive analysis of X-ray. The measurements of resistivity were made using a classical four probe method and DC current. The magnetic field was applied with a constant amplitude of 0 T, 1 T, 2 T and 3 T. The obtained results show that the activation energy decreases with introduction of yttrium, but has a relative maximum when x is equal 0.1. The decrease of the activation energy is explained by the granular nature of the samples which promotes 3D transition to 2D of the vortex lattice.
Structural, dielectric and AC conductivity studies on 0.8Ba0.2(Bi0.5K0.5)Ti1-xZrxO3 lead free ceramic system
Authors: Ramesh M.N.V. , Ramesh K.V.
Published: September 2016

Zr substituted 0.8BaTiO30.2 Bi0.5K0.5TiO3 lead free ceramic materials with a composition 0.8Ba0.2(Bi0.5K0.5)Ti1-xZrxO3 (0.01 ≤ x ≤ 0.06) were prepared by conventional solid state reaction method followed by high energy ball milling. The X-ray diffraction studies confirmed the tetragonal structure of the material at room temperature. Density was decreasing with the substitution of Zr. Microstructure studies were done by using scanning electron microscope. Temperature and frequency dependent dielectric studies were carried out and showed that the dielectric constant, dielectric loss and Curie temperature were decreasing with the substitution of Zr. Relaxor behavior was observed in all the Zr substituted samples. Degree of diffuseness was calculated from the modified Curie-Weiss law and it was found to increase with the substitution of Zr. Frequency and temperature dependent AC conductivity was calculated and it was found to obey Jonscher’s power law. Substitution of Zr decreased the conductivity of the material. Activation energy was calculated and it was decreasing with an increase in Zr substitution.
Radon problems in mining and post-mining areas in Upper Silesia region, Poland
Authors: Wysocka Małgorzata
Published: September 2016

The new basic safety standards (BSS) Directive 2013/59/Euratom [1] puts EU member states under an obligation to establish, amongst others, national radon action plans. In order to address the issue of long-term risks from radon exposures, it is important to identify areas where elevated levels of radon can be expected. One of the types of areas affected by an increased migration of radon and by the penetration of radon into buildings are areas in which industrial activity, for example, the exploitation of mineral resources, causes changes in the geological environment. The Upper Silesian Coal Basin (USCB) in Poland is one of the examples. The results of studies conducted in the past have shown that the levels of indoor concentration of radon, to a large extent, depend on the geological structure of the subsurface layers. One of the main factors influencing the migratory abilities of radon are the mining-induced changes of a rock body. We estimate that in specific radon-prone zones, the levels of radon may exceed 300 Bq/m3 in approximately 2% of the dwellings. Another problem that may appear in post-mining areas is linked to the reclamation of radioactively contaminated areas. The complex geology of the strata in USCB, the mining activity that can be observed in the region and, additionally, the discharge of radium-bearing waters into the environment are the most significant factors affecting radon potential and hazard in dwellings in this region. In this paper, problems linked to the detection of radon in the mining area of USCB are presented.
The Second Record of the Species Anthaxia (Melanthaxia) morio (Fabricius, 1792) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) in Romania
Authors: Pintilioaie Alexandru–Mihai
Published: September 2016

This paper reports on the second record of Anthaxia (Melanthaxia) morio (Fabricius, 1792) in Romania. Previously, this species was known from a single specimen collected in 1997. Some details regarding the habitat and the main diagnostic characters of the species are presented.
Invertebrate Collection Donated by Professor Dr. Ion Cantacuzino to “Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural History from Bucharest
Authors: Petrescu Iorgu , Petrescu Ana–Maria
Published: September 2016

The catalogue of the invertebrate collection donated by Prof. Dr. Ion Cantacuzino represents the first detailed description of this historical act. The early years of Prof. Dr. Ion Cantacuzino’s career are dedicated to natural sciences, collecting and drawing of marine invertebrates followed by experimental studies. The present paper represents gathered data from Grigore Antipa 1931 inventory, also from the original handwritten labels. The specimens were classified by current nomenclature. The present donation comprises 70 species of Protozoa, Porifera, Coelenterata, Mollusca, Annelida, Bryozoa, Sipuncula, Arthropoda, Chaetognatha, Echinodermata, Tunicata and Chordata.. The specimens were collected from the North West of the Mediterranean Sea (Villefranche–sur–Mer) and in 1899 were donated to the Museum of Natural History from Bucharest. The original catalogue of the donation was lost and along other 27 specimens. This contribution represents an homage to Professor’s Dr. Cantacuzino generosity and withal restoring this donation to its proper position on cultural heritage hallway.
Interband Heating Processes in a Periodically Driven Optical Lattice
Authors: Sträter Christoph , Eckardt André
Published: September 2016

We investigate multi-“photon” interband excitation processes in an optical lattice that is driven periodically in time by a modulation of the lattice depth. Assuming the system to be prepared in the lowest band, we compute the excitation spectrum numerically. Moreover, we estimate the effective coupling parameters for resonant interband excitation processes analytically, employing degenerate perturbation theory in Floquet space. We find that below a threshold driving strength, interband excitations are suppressed exponentially with respect to the inverse driving frequency. For sufficiently low frequencies, this leads to a rather sudden onset of interband heating, once the driving strength reaches the threshold. We argue that this behavior is rather generic and should also be found in lattice systems that are driven by other forms of periodic forcing. Our results are relevant for Floquet engineering, where a lattice system is driven periodically in time in order to endow it with novel properties like the emergence of a strong artificial magnetic field or a topological band structure. In this context, interband excitation processes correspond to detrimental heating.
A Transverse Dynamic Deflection Model for Thin Plate Made of Saturated Porous Materials
Authors: Feng-xi Zhou , Xiao-lin Cao
Published: September 2016

In this article, a transverse dynamic deflection model is established for thin plate made of saturated porous materials. Based on the Biot’s model for fluid-saturated porous media, using the Love–Kirchhoff hypothesis, the governing equations of transverse vibrations of fluid-saturated poroelastic plates are derived in detail, which take the inertial, fluid viscous, mechanical couplings, compressibility of solid, and fluid into account. The free vibration and forced vibration response of a simply supported poroelastic rectangular plate is obtained by Fourier series expansion method. Through numerical examples, the effect of porosity and permeability on the dynamic response, including the natural frequency, amplitude response, and the resonance areas is assessed.
Isolation, antimicrobial and antitumor activities of a new polyhydroxysteroid and a new diterpenoid from the soft coral Xenia umbellata
Authors: Ayyad Seif-Eldin N. , Alarif Walied M. , Al-Footy Khalid O. , Selim Elham A. , Ghandourah Mohamed A. , Aly Magda M. , Alorfi Hajer S.
Published: September 2016

A new C-30 steroid, 3β-,5α-,6β-,11α-,20β-pentahydroxygorgosterol (1), and a new diterpenoid, xeniumbellal (2), along with three known aromadendrane-type sesquiterpenes, aromadendrene (3), palustrol (4) and viridiflorol (5), were isolated from the soft coral Xenia umbellata. Chemical structures were determined by analyzing their NMR and MS data. The antimicrobial and antitumor activities of the isolated compounds were examined. Both 1 and 2 showed moderate antibacterial activities, especially against the multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MIC 0.22 and 0.28 mM, respectively); while 2 showed antitumor activity against a lymphoma cell line with LD50 0.57 mM and was nontoxic to Artemia salina at all tested concentrations up to about 4 mM.
Resolvin D1 Programs Inflammation Resolution by Increasing TGF-β Expression Induced by Dying Cell Clearance in Experimental Autoimmune Neuritis
Authors: Luo Bangwei , Han Fuyu , Xu Kai , Wang Jinsong , Liu Zongwei , Shen Zigang , Li Jia , Liu Yu , Jiang Man , Zhang Zhi-Yuan , Zhang Zhiren
Published: September 2016

Experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) is the animal model of human acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathies (AIDP), an auto-immune inflammatory demyelination disease of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and the world's leading cause of acute autoimmune neuromuscular paralysis. EAN and AIDP are characterized by self-limitation with spontaneous recovery; however, endogenous pathways that regulate inflammation resolution in EAN and AIDP remain elusive. A pathway of endogenous mediators, especially resolvins and clearance of apoptotic cells, may be involved. Here, we determined that resolvin D1 (RvD1), its synthetic enzyme, and its receptor were greatly increased in PNS during the recovery stage of EAN. Both endogenous and exogenous RvD1 increased regulatory T (Treg) cell and anti-inflammatory macrophage counts in PNS, enhanced inflammation resolution, and promoted disease recovery in EAN rats. Moreover, RvD1 upregulated the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) level and pharmacologic inhibition of TGF-β signaling suppressed RvD1-induced Treg cell counts, but not anti-inflammatory macrophage counts, and RvD1-improved inflammation resolution and disease recovery in EAN rats. Mechanistically, the RvD1-enhanced macrophage phagocytosis of apoptotic T cells leading to reduced apoptotic T-cell accumulation in PNS induced TGF-β production and caused Treg cells to promote inflammation resolution and disease recovery in EAN. Therefore, these data highlight the crucial role of RvD1 as an important pro-resolving molecule in EAN and suggest its potential as a therapeutic target in human neuropathies.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTExperimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) is the animal model of human acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathies, an auto-immune inflammatory demyelination disease of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and the world's leading cause of acute autoimmune neuromuscular paralysis. Here, we demonstrated that resolvin D1 (RvD1) promoted macrophage phagocytosis of apoptotic T cells in PNS, thereby upregulating transforming growth factor-β by macrophages, increased local Treg cell counts, and finally promoted inflammation resolution and disease recovery in EAN. These data highlight the crucial role of RvD1 as an important pro-resolving molecule in EAN and suggest that it has potential as a therapeutic target in human neuritis.
The Arp2/3 Complex Is Essential for Distinct Stages of Spine Synapse Maturation, Including Synapse Unsilencing
Authors: Spence Erin F. , Kanak Daniel J. , Carlson Benjamin R. , Soderling Scott H.
Published: September 2016

Dendritic filopodia are actin-rich structures that are thought to contribute to early spine synapse formation; however, the actin regulatory proteins important for early synaptogenesis are poorly defined. Using organotypic hippocampal slice cultures and primary neuron hippocampal cultures fromArp2/3conditional knock-out mice, we analyze the roles of the Arp2/3 complex, an actin regulator that creates branched actin networks, and demonstrate it is essential for distinct stages of both structural and functional maturation of excitatory spine synapses. Our data show that initially the Arp2/3 complex inhibits the formation of dendritic filopodia but that later during development, the Arp2/3 complex drives the morphological maturation from filopodia to typical spine morphology. Furthermore, we demonstrate that although the Arp2/3 complex is not required for key spine maturation steps, such as presynaptic contact and recruitment of MAGUK (membrane-associated guanylate kinase) scaffolding proteins or NMDA receptors, it is necessary for the recruitment of AMPA receptors. This latter process, also known as synapse unsilencing, is a final and essential step in the neurodevelopment of excitatory postsynaptic synaptogenesis, setting the stage for neuronal interconnectivity. These findings provide the first evidence that the Arp2/3 complex is directly involved in functional maturation of dendritic spines during the developmental period of spinogenesis.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTExcitatory spine synapse formation (spinogenesis) is a poorly understood yet pivotal period of neurodevelopment that occurs within 2–3 weeks after birth. Neurodevelopmental disorders such as intellectual disability and autism are characterized by abnormal spine structure, which may arise from abnormal excitatory synaptogenesis. The initial stage of spinogenesis is thought to begin with the emergence of actin-rich dendritic filopodia that initiate contact with presynaptic axonal boutons. However, it remains enigmatic how actin cytoskeletal regulation directs dendritic filopodial emergence or their subsequent maturation into dendritic spines during development and on into adulthood. In this study, we provide the first evidence that the Arp2/3 complex, a key actin nucleator, is involved in distinct stages of spine formation and is required for synapse unsilencing.