bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Silico Prediction and Validation of Oxygen-Regulated Protein N-myc Downstream Regulated Gene 3 and Virtual Screening of Competitive Inhibitors of L-Lactate as Therapeutics
Authors: Cao Hongyu , Wu Yanhua , Zhou Xingzhi , Zheng Xuefang , Jiang Ge
Published: August 2018

Background:

N-myc downstream regulated gene 3 (NDRG3) is a newly discovered
oxygen-regulated protein which will bind with L-Lactate in hypoxia and further activate Raf (rapidly
accelerated fibrosarcoma)-ERK (extracellular regulated protein kinases) pathway, promoting
cell growth and angiogenesis.

Methods:

Competitive inhibition on the binding of NDRG3 and L-Lactate may be potentially a
useful strategy for the repression of hypoxic response mediated by NDRG3. The threedimensional
(3D) structure of NDRG3 was built by using homology modeling for its crystal structure
was not available. Then, L-Lactate was docked into NDRG3, from which we knew it bound
with amino acid residues Gln69, His183, Asn189, Ala72 and Pro66 of NDRG3 in the most possible
active sites. Approximately 3000 compounds have been virtually screened and the 6 topranked
compounds were selected as reference molecules to analyze their interaction relationships,
which illustrated that some of them might form electrostatic interaction with Glu70 and Asp187,
π-&π stack with Phe75 and Tyr180, hydrogen bonds with Gly71 and Asn189, hydrophobic effect
with Ala72 and Ile184.

Results:

Novel molecules were designed through structural optimization of the 6 top-ranked compounds
and subsequently their ADMET properties were predicted.

Conclusion:

These molecules may be potential drug candidates for the suppression of hypoxic response
mediated by NDRG3 and targeted therapy for hypoxia-induced diseases.
Examining the Use of Taste Enhancers in Instant Noodles and Public Perception of Monosodium Glutamate in Muscat, Oman
Authors: Al-Azawi Maryam , Altattan Dima , Ali Salma Khamis , AbuKhader Majed Mamoun
Published: August 2018

Background:

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is an extensively used additive in food industry
as a taste enhancer and found naturally in fruits and vegetables.

Aim:

To examine and assess the use of taste enhancers and correlate with the amount of salt (sodium)
in instant noodles sold in the Omani market. A pilot study was also conducted to assess public perception
towards MSG use in these products.

Methods:

The different names and written forms of taste enhancers and salt (sodium) content are
printed on the outer pack of instant noodles and 200 questionnaires distributed to public were recorded,
collected respectively and subsequently analyzed.

Results:

There were 93 instant noodles varieties collected in which MSG was either not used (27.8%)
or used alone (32.3%) or with other additives (39.9%). Three popular brands; Indomie (14 varieties),
Maggie (9 varieties) and Koka (18 varieties), were considered for further examination for the number
of food additives used and the correlation between MSG and salt (sodium) content. One of these
brands has a significant amount of food additives used and in these products there is a tendency
(p = 0.051) that the use of MSG is associated with reducing the amount of salt (sodium) content. The
survey showed that public perception towards MSG is better among Asians. Noodles are popular
among participants despite the awareness of the presence of MSG.

Conclusion:

Large numbers of noodles products contain MSG in addition to other additives. It seems
that consumption of instant noodles is influenced by the culture or the media or the surrounding.
Surgical Emergencies from Adnexal Masses
Authors: Jackson Amanda M. , Zeligs Kristen P.
Published: August 2018

Adnexal masses are commonly found on imaging of patients presenting to the emergency
department with pelvic pain. Depending on the clinical context, emergent surgical exploration
may be warranted. In this review article, we discuss the most common causes of adnexal masses
requiring emergent surgical treatment, to include ectopic pregnancy, ovarian torsion, ruptured
hemorrhagic cyst, and tubo-ovarian abscess.
Different Carotenoid Enrichment in Two Climacteric Fruits after Post- Harvest UV-B Treatment
Authors: Assumpção Carolina F. , da Silva Médelin M. , Hermes Vanessa S. , Ranieri Annamaria , Ferreira Ester A. , Jablonski André , Flôres Simone H. , de O. Rios Alessandro
Published: August 2018

Background:

Ultraviolet B (UV-B) radiation is a promising and environmentally friendly
technique, which in a low flow rate, can induce bioactive compound synthesis. This work aimed at
evaluating the effectiveness of post-harvest UV-B treatment in order to improve carotenoid content in
climacteric fruits like persimmon and guava fruits.

Methods:

The fruits were harvested at commercial maturity and placed into climatic chambers equipped
with UV-B lamps. For control treatment, the UV-B lamps were covered by a benzophenone film, known
to block the radiation. This radiation was applied during 48 hours and fruits were sampled at 25, 30 and
48 hours of each treatment. HPLC analysis was performed to separate and identify carotenoid compounds
from fruit skin after a saponification process.

Results:

Fruit from 30 hours treatment began to present a carotenoid accumulation since the majority of
analyzed compounds exhibited its synthesis stimulated from this time on. In persimmon skin, it was
observed that the maximum content was reached after 48 hours of UV-B treatment.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that this post-harvest UV-B treatment can be an innovative and a
viable method to induce beneficial effects on guava and mainly on persimmon fruit.
Effects of Greek Pomegranate Extracts in the Antioxidant Properties and Storage Stability of Kefir
Authors: Lagouri Vasiliki , Dimitreli Georgia , Kouvatsi Aikatarini
Published: August 2018

Background:

Oxidation reactions are known to shorten the shelf life and cause damage to foods rich in fat, such as dairy products. One way to limit oxidation and increase the shelf life of fermented dairy products is to use natural antioxidants. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of adding pomegranate extracts in the antioxidant properties, rheological characteristics and the storage stability of the fermented product of kefir.

Methods:

The Pomegranate Juice (PGJ) and Peel Extracts (PGPE) (5%, 10% w/v) were added to kefir and the antioxidant properties were evaluated by using the methods of radical scavenging activity (DPPH) and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power Activity (FRAP). Spectrophotometric and instrumental methods were used to determine the Total Phenols (TPs), pH values, viscosity and flow behavioral index values of enriched with pomegranate kefir samples. The same properties were tested when kefir samples stored at 4°C for 7, 14, 21 and 28 days.

Results:

The addition of PGJ and PGPE results in an increase in the antioxidant activity (DPPH, FRAP) and total phenol content (TPs) of kefir samples. Increasing the concentration of the added PGJ and PGPE, results in an increase in the TP content and the DPPH activity of kefir. As far as the storage time is concerned, the results showed an increase in the amount of TP at 7th day and a reduction in the DPPH activity in the 14th day of storage. In contrary to the DPPH method, the increase in storage time has resulted in a reduction in antioxidant activity by the FRAP method. The addition of PGJ and PGPE in kefir results in a decrease in pH values while the pH of kefir samples increased during storage at 4°C for 28 days. The addition of PGJ and PGPE to kefir samples results to a decrease in viscosity and an increase in the flow behavior index. Increasing storage time results in increased flow behavior index of kefir samples.

Conclusion:

The addition of PGJ and PGPE increased the antioxidant activity and total phenols of the kefir product and preserved its properties during the total storage time of 28 days at 4°C.
Phytochemical Screening, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Selected Mangrove Species
Authors: Dahibhate Nilesh L. , Roy Utpal , Kumar Kundan
Published: August 2018

Background:

Mangrove plant extracts are used in folkloric medicine as aphrodisiac, sedative, antioxidant, antimicrobial and antimalarial. Screening for antimicrobial, phytochemical and antioxidant activities of fourteen mangroves plant species (Aegiceras corniculatum, Acanthus ilicifolius, Avicennia alba, Avicennia marina, Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera cylindrica, Bruguiera gymnorhiza, Ceriops tagel, Excoecaria agallocha, Kandelia candel, Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata, Sonneratia alba, and Sonneratia caseolaris) in various solvents are reported in this work.

Methods:

The antimicrobial screening was carried out using agar well diffusion method. In this study, nine pathogenic strains were used, including three Gram-positive and six Gram-negative bacteria. Phytochemical screening, total flavonoids, total phenolic and antioxidant activity was tested by DPPH radical scavenging assay. Four phenolic compounds (gallic acid, vanillin, tannic acid and quercetin) were quantified by LC-MS/MS in selected mangrove species.

Results:

Antimicrobial screening showed Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were most susceptible to ethyl acetate extract as compared to ethanol and methanol extract. Ethyl acetate extract of Avicennia marina and Bruguiera gymnorhiza showed strong antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids, which was found to be variable as per the solvent used for extraction. In addition, total phenolics and total flavonoids content with different solvents were found in the range of 11.08 to 196.76 mg GAE/g and 12.92 to 110.3 mg QE/g of extract respectively. Moreover, antioxidant capacities expressed in terms of IC50 (mg/mL) showed that methanol extract exhibited higher antioxidant capacity followed by ethanol extract. LC-MS/MS analysis showed gallic acid and tannic acid are present in higher concentration in Aegiceras corniculatum and Sonneratia caseolaris than other species. The vanillin and quercetin were found in the least concentration.

Conclusion:

Mangroves species are rich source of antioxidant, phenolics and antimicrobial compounds.
Antimicrobial and Resistance Modifying Activities of Cerevisterol Isolated from Trametes Species
Authors: Appiah Theresa , Agyare Christian , Luo Yinggang , Boamah Vivian E. , Boakye Yaw D.
Published: August 2018

Background:

The development of resistance by pathogenic microorganisms has renewed the
worldwide search for novel antimicrobial agents. Mushrooms are of recent interest because a wide variety
of biologically active compounds have been isolated from them. This study isolated antimicrobial
compound from two wood decaying mushrooms, Trametes gibbosa and Trametes elegans, and determined
the resistance modifying activities of the isolated compound.

Methods:

Bioactivity guided isolation of active principles from the methanol extract of T. gibbosa and
T. elegans was performed using column and preparative high-performance liquid chromatography. The
structures of isolated compounds were elucidated using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Broth
micro-dilution assay was used to determine the antimicrobial and resistance modifying activities of the
isolated compounds against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella
typhi, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Bacillus subtilis, Candida
albicans, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus tamarii.

Results:

Bioactivity guided isolation lead to the isolation of cerevisterol (ergosta-7, 22E-diene-3β5α, 6β-
triol) from both T. gibbosa and T. elegans. The isolated cerevisterol inhibited the growth of S. typhi, S.
aureus and A. niger with MICs of 25 µg/mL each and 50 μg/mL against E. faecalis. The MBCs of
cerevisterol against S. typhi S. aureus, E. faecalis and A. niger were 50, 100, 200 and 100 µg/mL, respectively.
The sub-inhibitory concentration (3 µg/mL) of cerevisterol modified the activity of erythromycin,
ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline and amoxicillin either by potentiating or reducing their activities.

Conclusion:

Cerevisterol possesses both antimicrobial and resistance modifying activities.
Preparation and Characterization of FeCo2O4 Nanoparticles: A Robust and Reusable Nanocatalyst for the Synthesis of 3,4-Dihydropyrimidin- 2(1H)-thiones and Thiazolopyrimidines
Authors: Mousavi-Moghadam Farah Sadat , Ghasemzadeh Mohammad Ali
Published: August 2018

Background:

The present research describes a mild and efficient method for the synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidine-2(1H)-thiones and thiazolopyrimidine via multi-component reactions using FeCo2O4 nanoparticles. It was found that FeCo2O4 nanoparticles act as a powerful and effective catalyst. The prepared catalyst was characterized by the various spectroscopic techniques.

Objective:

The three-component reaction of thiourea, aromatic aldehydes and ethyl acetoacetate was catalyzed by FeCo2O4 nanoparticles. Next, the prepared 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-thiones were applied for the preparation of thiazolopyrimidines via the reactions of 3,4-dihydropyrimidine-2(1H)- thiones, chloroacetic acid, and aromatic aldehydes in the presence of FeCo2O4 nanoparticles.

Methods:

The FeCo2O4 nanoparticles were synthesized by a facile one-step method and the structure determination of the catalyst has been done using spectral techniques.

:

Then, the prepared nanocatalyst was used in the synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-thiones and thiazolopyrimidines under solvent-free conditions at 80°C.

Results:

FeCo2O4 nanoparticles as a magnetic nanocatalyst were applied as a catalyst in the synthesis of some heterocyclic compounds in excellent yields and short reaction times. The average particle size of the catalyst is found to be 30-40 nm. The study on the reusability of the FeCo2O4 nanoparticles showed the recovered catalyst could be reused fifth consecutive times. We propose that FeCo2O4 nanoparticles act as a Lewis acid cause to increase electrophilicity of carbonyl groups of substrates and intermediates to promote the reactions.

Conclusion:

The present research introduced various advantageous including excellent yields, short reaction times, simple workup procedure and recyclability of the FeCo2O4 NPs in order to the synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-thiones and thiazolopyrimidines.
Synthesis of Polyaniline/Zn Bismuthate Nanocomposites and Sensitive Formaldehyde Sensing Performance
Authors: Pei Lizhai , Qiu Fanglv , Ma Yue , Lin Feifei , Fan Chuangang , Ling Xianzhang
Published: August 2018

Background:

Formaldehyde belongs to important pollutant and is usually found in liquid
environment, such as juices, beer, cleaning products and biological fluid of the human. The electrochemical
sensors using glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with polyaniline/Zn bismuthate
nanocomposites can effectively detect formaldehyde with broad linear range and good reproducibility.

Methods:

Polyaniline/Zn bismuthate nanocomposites were prepared by in-situ aniline polymerizing
route in aqueous solution. The structure and morphologies of the nanocomposites were analyzed by
X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy. The electrochemical performance for
formaldehyde detection has been investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) method using polyaniline/
Zn bismuthate nanocomposites modified GCE.

Results:

XRD shows that ZnBi38O58 phase exists in the nanocomposites. Amorphous polyaniline
attaches to the surface of the Zn bismuthate nanorods. The 20wt.% polyaniline/Zn bismuthate nanocomposites
modified GCE shows an irreversible cyclic voltammetry (CV) peak at –0.06 V. The peak
current increases sharply with increased scan rate, formaldehyde concentration and acidity. The electrochemical
response dependences including the linear range, detection limit were analyzed. 20wt.%
polyaniline/Zn bismuthate nanocomposites modified GCE shows low detection limit of 0.0095 µM
and wide linear range of 0.00001-2 mM. The detection limit for formaldehyde decreases from 0.028
µM to 0.0075 µM with the increase in the polyaniline content from 10wt.% to 40wt.%.

Conclusion:

The low detection limit and wide linear range make the nanocomposites modified GCE
valuable for sensor application. Polyaniline/Zn bismuthate nanocomposites are identified as the
prominent electrode materials for sensitive formaldehyde detection.
What do we Really Know about Nanotoxicology of Silver Nanoparticles In vivo? New Aspects, Possible Mechanisms, and Perspectives
Authors: Durán Nelson , Fávaro Wagner J. , Seabra Amedea B.
Published: August 2018

Actually, many discussions on the potential risks of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have
been reported; however, unfortunately, very few considered the great differences between the nature
of silver and sources of their syntheses. All data suggested that the effects on toxicity of AgNPs are
related to the combination of the specific properties of AgNPs. In this context, this review presents
and discusses the recent progress in the nanotoxicity of AgNPs, obtained by different biogenic synthetic
protocols, in comparison with chemical synthetic methods, driving to the formation of
nanoparticles with diverse structures, and size distributions. Biogenic syntheses of AgNPs using
several biological sources and other chemical agents are presented and discussed. Toxicity in different
animals is also presented and discussed. By considering the actual state of the art, it can be assumed
that oral, intravenous and inhalation doses of AgNPs from 0.1 to 2 mg/Kg in mice and rats are
considered a safe administration. In terms of ecotoxicity, it is more concerning since many of the in
vivo assays showed a very low lethal dose, i.e., 50% (LD50). Therefore, we have to be very careful
with the AgNPs residues in the environment.
Tunability of Electronic Properties and Magnetic Behaviour of Nickel Oxide: A Review
Authors: Acharya Aman Deep , Sarwan Bhawna
Published: August 2018

Background: Significant efforts in direction of development of smart windows with natural colour switching properties, which are in the current interest. The tailoring of the electrical conductivity as n-type and p-type is still a major challenge. In this regard, NiO has emerged as a potential candidate and auspicious functional material for various applications.  Objective: The main objective is to compile the interesting findings of the authors in context to the effect of the different filler on the properties especially electric and magnetic of NiO on one platform.  Methods: Literature survey has been done in the depth. As a whole near about 192 Research articles which include oldest as well as recent coverage about the NiO.  Conclusions: Review report conclude that instead of Mott insulator NiO is a kind of charge transfer insulator and accepted extensively theoretically as well as experimentally.
A Hybrid Security System Based on Bit Rotation and Chaotic Maps
Authors: Al-qdah Majdi
Published: August 2018

Background:

This paper presents an image security system by combining bit rotation
with block based chaotic maps cryptography.

Methods:

The system uses permutation technique that divides the image into blocks before applying
right/left rotation of bits to the pixel values based on a randomly generated key. Then, the image
blocks are fused together. A scrambling operation followed by chaotic map is applied on the
rotated image to diffuse the image pixels using another randomly generated key. The chaotic map
scatters all the pixel positions in the image. The decryption is the complete reversal operation of
the encryption process.

Results & Conclusion:

The performance of the proposed technique is evaluated using several
metrics: Histograms of both original and cipher images, correlation of adjacent pixels and correlation
between the original and cipher images, Number of Pixel Change Rate (NPCR), Unified Average
Changing Intensity (UACI), Mean Square Error (MSE), and Peak Signal to Noise Ratio
(PSNR). The results indicate a very secure technique to protect all types of images.
Efficient Computing in Image Processing and DSPs with ASIP Based Multiplier
Authors: Sharma Poonam , Dubey Ashwani Kumar , Goyal Ayush
Published: August 2018

Background:

With the growing demand of image processing and the use of Digital Signal
Processors (DSP), the efficiency of the Multipliers and Accumulators has become a bottleneck to get
through. We revised a few patents on an Application Specific Instruction Set Processor (ASIP),
where the design considerations are proposed for application-specific computing in an efficient way
to enhance the throughput.

Objective:

The study aims to develop and analyze a computationally efficient method to optimize the
speed performance of MAC.

Methods:

The work presented here proposes the design of an Application Specific Instruction Set
Processor, exploiting a Multiplier Accumulator integrated as the dedicated hardware. This MAC is
optimized for high-speed performance and is the application-specific part of the processor; here it
can be the DSP block of an image processor while a 16-bit Reduced Instruction Set Computer
(RISC) processor core gives the flexibility to the design for any computing. The design was emulated
on a Xilinx Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) and tested for various real-time computing.

Results:

The synthesis of the hardware logic on FPGA tools gave the operating frequencies of the
legacy methods and the proposed method, the simulation of the logic verified the functionality.

Conclusion:

With the proposed method, a significant improvement of 16% increase in throughput
has been observed for 256 steps iterations of multiplier and accumulators on an 8-bit sample data.
Such an improvement can help in reducing the computation time in many digital signal processing
applications where multiplication and addition are done iteratively.
Vibration Fault Diagnosis for Hydroelectric Generating Units Based on the Modified Cuckoo Search Algorithm and Evidence Theory
Authors: Cheng Jiatang , Ai Li , Xiong Yan
Published: August 2018

Background:

In view of the complex system structure and uncertain factors in the fault
diagnosis of hydroelectric generating units (HGU), it is a difficult problem to design the diagnosis
method rationally.

Objective:

An attempt is made to employ multi-source feature information to improve the accuracy of
fault diagnosis, and the effectiveness of the proposed scheme is verified by using a diagnostic example.

Methods:

Through the research on recent papers and patents related to fault diagnosis of the HGU, a
hybrid scheme based on the modified cuckoo search algorithm, back-propagation (BP) neural network
and evidence theory are proposed. For this modified version named cuckoo search with fitness information
(CSF), the step factor is adaptively tuned using the fitness value. Next, three diagnostic models
based on BP neural network trained by CSF are used for primary diagnosis. These diagnostic results are
then used as the independent evidence, and the fusion decision is made by using evidence theory.

Results:

Experimental results show that CSF algorithm is better than the original cuckoo search (CS)
and its three variants, and the hybrid method has the highest diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusion:

The proposed hybrid scheme has strong robustness and fault tolerance, and can effectively
classify the vibration faults of hydroelectric generating units
An Improved Genetic Algorithm on Hybrid Information Scheduling
Authors: Li Jingmei , Tian Qiao , Zheng Fangyuan , Wu Weifei
Published: August 2018

Background:

Patents suggest that efficient hybrid information scheduling algorithm is
critical to achieve high performance for heterogeneous multi-core processors. Because the commonly
used list scheduling algorithm obtains the approximate optimal solution, and the genetic algorithm
is easy to converge to the local optimal solution and the convergence rate is slow.

Methods:

To solve the above two problems, the thesis proposes a hybrid algorithm integrating list
scheduling and genetic algorithm. Firstly, in the task priority calculation phase of the list scheduling
algorithm, the total cost of the current task node to the exit node and the differences of its execution
cost on different processor cores are taken into account when constructing the task scheduling list,
then the task insertion method is used in the task allocation phase, thus obtaining a better scheduling
sequence. Secondly, the pre-acquired scheduling sequence is added to the initial population of the
genetic algorithm, and then a dynamic selection strategy based on fitness value is adopted in the
phase of evolution. Finally, the cross and mutation probability in the genetic algorithm is improved
to avoid premature phenomenon.

Results:

With a series of simulation experiments, the proposed algorithm is proved to have a faster
convergence rate and a higher optimal solution quality.

Conclusion:

The experimental results show that the ICLGA has the highest quality of the optimal
solution than CPOP and GA, and the convergence rate of ICLGA is faster than that of GA.
Fabrication and Characterization of PANI/Ag Nanocomposites Voltammetric Sensor for Foodborne Bacteria
Authors: Chaitra V. , Uma V. , Raja S.
Published: August 2018

Introduction:

Foodborne diseases are caused by consuming contaminated foods and/or beverages.

Methods:

Traditional detection methods for foodborne bacteria are sluggish and laborious. In this study, room temperature voltammetric sensors with low cost, specific, rapid and easy detection were fabricated using Polyaniline (PANI) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles. PANI films were coated on to the Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) glass substrate using electrochemical deposition technique. PANI surface was modified using Ag nanoparticles prepared by reduction method as Ag is one of the most powerful disinfectants against microbes. Both surface electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique revealed the presence of Ag nanoparticles in the composites. The peaks observed in Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and optical absorption spectra are characteristics to PANI/Ag nanocomposites.

Results:

The antibacterial activities of the PANI/Ag nanocomposites were evaluated against Escherichia coli (E. Coli) (NCIM 2065), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) (NCIM 2079) and Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) (NCIM 2106) using disk diffusion method. The composites showed better antibacterial activity due to the presence of Ag in comparison to pure PANI films.

Conclusion:

The sensor current for composites was found to increase with the presence of all the microbes. The sensitivity of the sensor was higher for E. coli bacteria among the other bacterial strains.
Multiple Quantum Barrier Nano-avalanche Photodiodes - Part I: Spectral Response
Authors: Ghosh Somrita , Acharyya Aritra
Published: August 2018

Background:

The spectral response of Multiple Quantum Barrier (MQB) nano-scale
avalanche photodiodes (APDs) based on Si~3C-SiC material system shows considerable responsivity
of the device within a very wide wavelength range which includes some portion of Ultra-
Violet (UV) spectrum (200- 90 nm), visible spectrum (390-770 nm), near-infrared (700-1400 nm),
short-wavelength infrared (1400-3000 nm) and mid-infrared (3000-4000 nm) wavelengths. It has
already been concluded from preceding studies that Si~3C-SiC MQB APDs shows better spectral
response and excess noise characteristics as compared to equivalent conventional APDs based on
Si. Moreover, the superiority of the illumination through p+-side (ITPS) structure has been observed
among two probable optical illumination configurations such as illumination through n+-
side (ITNS) and illumination through p+-side (ITPS) structures.

Methods:

In this paper, the time and frequency responses of Si~3C-SiC MQB APDs have been investigated.
A very narrow rectangular pulse of pulse-width of 0.4 ps has been used as the input optical
pulse having 850 nm wavelength incident on the p+-side of the MQB APD structures (i.e. ITPS
is considered here) and corresponding current responses have been calculated by using a rigorous
simulation method developed by the authors; finally the frequency responses of the devices are obtained
via the Fourier transform of the corresponding pulse current responses in time domain.

Results:

The width of the current responses are limited to 4.7 and 3.1 ps in Si nano-APD and
Si~3C-SiC MQB (consisting of five quantum barriers) nano-APD respectively for the input optical
pulse of width 0.4 ps of 850 nm wavelength. On the other hand, the 3 dB upper cut-off frequencies
of the above-mentioned diodes are obtained to be 68.63 and 82.64 GHz respectively.

Conclusion:

Simulation results show that MQB nano-APDs possess significantly faster time response
and wider frequency response as compared to the flat Si nano-APDs under similar operating
conditions.
Synthesis, Screening and Docking Analysis of Novel Benzimidazolium and Benzotriazolium Compounds as Potent Anti Tubercular Agents
Authors: Guruvelli Padma V.S. , Wagmare Pranita , Harinath Bhaskar C. , Jamullamudi Risy N. , Kurre Purna N. , Muthyala Murali K.K.
Published: August 2018

Introduction: Tuberculosis is an infectious bacterial disease that mainly affects the lungs. Globally, there are about 10.5 million new cases and about 1.5 million deaths reported each year as per science daily research news in 2017.

Objective:

One of the biggest problems of Tuberculosis is the lack of effective treatments. Bedaquiline (2013) and Delaminid (2014) are the only two agents approved for TB after Rifampicin. This clearly shows the need for new lead molecules to fight against TB.

Methodology:

A series of benzimidazolium and benzotriazolium derivatives were synthesized and the structures were confirmed by their IR, 1H NMR,13C NMR and mass spectral data. They were tested for in vitro antitubercular activity by MABA Assay, MTT Assay and axenic culture assay. To determine selective TB activity, they were also tested for antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity. Docking simulations and drug-inhibitor combination studies were conducted to know the probable mechanism of action.

Results:

Among the synthesized compounds B10, B11, B13, B14, B22, B23, B24, B25, B26 and B27 showed excellent anti TB activity with an MIC 3.12-0.8 µg/mL. Among these, compound 1,3- bis(4-chlorobenzyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-3-ium chloride (B11) has shown selective anti TB activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv (0.8µg/mL) in MABA assay. This compound hasn’t shown any antimicrobial (at 100μg/mL) and cytotoxicity (at 10µM). Docking studies and drug-inhibitor combination studies indicated that the compounds might act via enzymes involved in the cell division process.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, we synthesized molecules with potent and selective anti TB activity.
Green Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles Using Different Leaf Extracts of Ocimum gratissimum Linn for Anti-tubercular Activity
Authors: Gupta Arti , Pandey Sonia , Variya Bharat , Shah Shailesh , Yadav Jitendra Singh
Published: August 2018

Background:

Tuberculosis is a greatest threat to human health. It requires urgent
need to seek new devise alternate strategies and ant-tubercular compounds. In the
present scenario, Nonmaterias, have opened new avenues in medicine, diagnosis and
therapeutics.

Objective:

In view of this, the current study aims to synthesize gold nanoparticles and determine
its efficacy to inhibit Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Methods:

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) synthesized from medicinal plant, such as Ocimum
gratissimum linn, were tested against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (H37RV strain). Gold
nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometer, FTIR, SEM and TEM.
TEM results revealed that the GNPs were found spherical in structure and around 10-25
nm in diameter. UV-Vis spectroscopy exhibited an absorption peak at 348 nm. Fourier
transform infra-red spectroscopy showed the GNPs have coated with phytoconstituents
(terpenoids) that indicate the role of bio-molecules responsible for efficient stabilization
and capping of the gold nanoparticles. In vitro model was designed to determine minimum
inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each sample by Lowenstein Jensen (LJ) slope method.

Results:

The results showed that the presence of ursolic acid in ethanolic and hydroalcoholic
extracts was found to be 2.89% and 1.97%, respectively. GNPs of ethanolic and hydroalcoholic
exhibited anti-tubercular activity, with MIC 2.5 µg/ml and 20 µg/ml, respectively.
While ethanolic and hydroalcoholic extracts showed such activity at concentrations
50 µg/ml and 75 µg/ml, respectively.

Conclusion:

GNPs synthesized from ethanolic extract showed profound efficiency to kill
mycobacteria. As in this method no chemical reagents were used, the synthesized gold
nanoparticles have potential for biological applications. There is an urgent need to further
development of nano-antibiotic for tuberculosis.
Formulation and Characterization of Gefitinib-loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles Using Box-Behnken Design
Authors: Gupta M. , Marwaha R.K. , Dureja H.
Published: August 2018

Background:

Nanotechnology has considerably modified the treatment of cancer by overcoming the prevailing drawbacks in conventional chemotherapy like severe systemic side effects, undesirable bio-distribution and drug resistance.

Objective:

The objective behind the present study was to develop polymeric nanoparticles loaded with gefitinib by ionic gelation method and optimize the prepared nanoparticles using Box-Behnken Design at 3-factors and 3-levels. The main and interactive effects of three selected process variables i.e chitosan concentration, sodium tripolyphosphate (NaTPP) concentration and NaTPP volume on the encapsulation efficiency and % cumulative drug release were determined.

Method:

Seventeen nanoparticle formulations were prepared by ionic gelation method using chitosan concentration (0.1-0.3% w/v), NaTPP concentration (0.2-0.6% w/v) and NaTPP volume (8-12 ml) applying Box-behnken design. The cryoprotectant used was 5% w/v trehalose. The nanoparticle formulations were further evaluated for various parameters.

Results:

The formulation (NP-5) prepared using chitosan (0.1% w/v) and NaTPP (0.4% w/v ) in 8 ml volume exhibited particle size (79.4 nm), polydispersity index (0.349), encapsulation efficiency (82.05 %) and % cumulative drug released (40.83 %) in phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) over a period of 24 h. The release mechanism followed was higuchi model. The values of various evaluation parameters observed were found to be in close concurrence with the values predicted employing the Design expert software.

Conclusion:

The nanoparticle formulation obtained using chitosan in low concentration, optimum concentration ratio of chitosan: NaTPP along with low volume of NaTPP showed desired features. The mathematical models were further designed to develop polymeric nanoparticles with required characteristics.
Sulfur and lime affect soil pH and nutrients in a sandy Pinus taeda nursery
Authors: Nadel Ryan L , South David B , Enebak Scott A , Bickerstaff Gene
Published: August 2018

Two pH experiments were conducted at a sandy, bareroot loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) nursery in Texas. A sulfur trial (0, 813, 1626, 2439 kg ha-1 of elemental sulfur) was installed to determine if lowering soil pH would result in nutrient toxicity symptoms and affect seedling morphology. Although soil acidity in the sulfur study ranged from pH 3.9 to pH 5.0, none of the treatments resulted in micronutrient toxicity and none affected height growth, root-collar diameter, root mass, shoot mass or the root-mass ratio (root dry mass/total dry mass). Acidifying soil with sulfur increased leaching of calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese and zinc but there was no effect on seedling morphology. The objective of the liming trial (0, 813, 1626, 3252 kg ha-1 of dolomitic lime) was to determine if increasing alkalinity would result in an iron deficiency and reduce seedling growth. As expected, applying lime increased the calcium and magnesium levels but had no effect on soil levels of iron, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, zinc and sodium. However, the root-mass ratio was reduced by applications of dolomitic lime (pH ranged from 5.3 to 6.0). Differences in soil properties (i.e. plot location) had a greater effect on seedling morphology than lime applications. Foliage levels of manganese and boron were reduced by the highest rate of lime and sulfur, respectively.
O DELEGACIONISMO NO STF: UMA TRÉPLICA A VIRGÍLIO AFONSO DA SILVA
Authors: Almeida Danilo dos Santos , Bogossian Andre Martins
Published: August 2018

No presente artigo, pretendemos responder às críticas elaboradas por Virgílio Afonso da Silva, em O Relator dá voz ao STF? Uma réplica a Almeida e Bogossian, ao nosso artigo “Nos termos do voto do Relator”: considerações acerca da fundamentação coletiva nos acórdãos do STF. Nosso propósito com o presente artigo é duplo. Além de responder às críticas que nos dirigiu nosso interlocutor, pretendemos apresentar com mais clareza o argumento sugerido em nosso artigo anterior (que chamamos de argumento do delegacionismo), definindo as condições para sua afirmação, e situá-lo no pano de fundo de nossa pesquisa, a respeito da natureza coletiva dos julgamentos no STF – mais especificamente, a busca por critérios para atribuir determinados fundamentos de decisão à corte, entendida enquanto grupo-agente. Concluímos que, apesar de algumas críticas de Silva serem pertinentes, elas não comprometem decisivamente nossa tese central, de modo que ainda consideramos haver boas evidências para pensar que a autocompreensão da corte expressa em seus acórdãos confirma a hipótese de que a corte remete suas razões de decidir para o voto do relator do acórdão.
NUDGING: UM GUIA (MUITO) RESUMIDO
Authors: Sunstein Cass R.
Published: August 2018

Este breve ensaio oferece uma introdução geral à ideia de nudging juntamente com uma lista de dez dos mais importantes nudges. Também será apresentada uma sucinta discussão sobre a criação de algum tipo de "grupo de insights comportamentais", capaz de conduzir a sua própria investigação ou, ao invés, confiar nas instituições existentes.
A UNIVERSALIZAÇÃO DOS DIREITOS SOCIAIS E SUA RELEVÂNCIA PARA O EXERCÍCIO E CONCREÇÃO DA CIDADANIA
Authors: Silva Juvêncio Borges , Zacarias Fabiana , Guimarães Leonardo Aquino Moreira
Published: August 2018

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar os direitos fundamentais sociais, consagrados na Constituição Federal de 1988, como dimensão dos direitos humanos. A pesquisa parte do estudo dos direitos humanos e da constitucionalização dos direitos sociais. Aborda a judicialização dos direitos fundamentais, principalmente no que se refere à legitimidade do Poder Judiciário para a implementação de políticas públicas, diante da escassez de recursos financeiros e orçamentários, analisando-se o princípio da cláusula da reserva do possível, o direito ao mínimo existencial, o princípio do não retrocesso social e a garantia da dignidade humana. O trabalho faz uma análise dos aspectos teóricos e práticos, para demonstrar importância da universalização dos direitos sociais para a garantia do exercício da cidadania, orientando-se, para tanto, pelo método analítico-dedutivo.
Scripties
Authors: Bertolini Luca , Wildschut Hilde
Published: August 2018

Scriptie Björn Hondelink (2000): Creëert een rondje Randstad ruimte? Een onderzoek naar de ruimtelijke consequenties van hoogwaardig metropolitaan openbaar vervoer in de Randstad. Universiteit van Amsterdam.

Scriptie Ester de Bever (2001): Hoe groen is gras? Onderzoek naar het aanbod van en vraag naar openbaar groen. Universiteit Utrecht.
“Trust me; I’m your lawyer”: Lawyers’ Reporting Duty under AML/ATF Law in Malaysia
Authors: Hamin Zaiton , Kamaruddin Saslina , Wan Rosil Wan Rosalili
Published: August 2018

Lawyers have always been vulnerable to be misused by money launderers as one of the potential vehicles for such criminals to conduct their illegal activities. Given such issues, the Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Law in Malaysia imposes an obligation on lawyers to report any suspicious transactions to the regulator. Adopting a content analysis method, this paper examines such obligation and the impediments to such reporting. Lawyers' reluctance to comply with their reporting duties could be attributed to the culture of confidentiality and the fear of erosion of the client-lawyer privilege.
Citizen Participation to Manage Heritage in the City of Shiraz
Authors: Sarvarzadeh S. Koorosh
Published: August 2018

Today, citizen participation (CP) has become a global issue for mobilising untapped human resources, and it has spread across the field of Urban Heritage Conservation (UHC). This study aims to examine an indicator-based approach for the subjective evaluation of CP practice in UHC initiatives in Shiraz. It employs a questionnaire survey of 384 residents who engaged in the UHC initiatives. Finding, particularly, demonstrated that participants desire to attend a group discussion when the discussions are: respectful; possess mutual trust; respect to different points of view; equal opportunity to speak; offer common good; reciprocal dialogue; have a feedback communication.
Pengaruh Waktu Aplikasi Pyraclostrobin terhadap Pertumbuhan dan Hasil Tanaman Cabai (Capsicum Annuum L.)
Authors: Muryasani Ayu Ainullah , Sulistyaningsih Endang , Susila Putra Eka Tarwaca
Published: August 2018

Pemberian pyraclostrobin yang merupakan fungisida dari jenis strobilurin memiliki kemampuan untuk memacu sintesis prekursor IAA yaitu L-tryptopha yang dapat memicu pertumbuhan dan hasil tanaman. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menentukan waktu aplikasi pyraclostrobin terbaik terhadap pertumbuhan, hasil dan kesehatan tanaman cabai (Capsicum annuum L.). Penelitian dilakukan di Balai Pengembangan Perbenihan Tanaman Pangan dan Hortikultura, Ngipiksari, Sleman, Yogyakarta pada bulan Februari-Agustus 2016. Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Acak Kelompok Lengkap (RAKL) dengan 1 faktor dan 4 blok. Aras faktor ini terdiri dari lima perlakuan yaitu pemberian pyraclostrobin pada benih, pyraclostrobin pada media, pyraclostrobin pada bibit, pyraclostrobin pada tanaman di lapangan dan tanpa perlakuan. Pada perlakuan pyraclostrobin pada benih, pyraclostrobin pada media dan pyraclostrobin pada bibit dilakukan penyemprotan di lapangan saat 30 hspt, 60 hspt dan 90 hspt dengan dosis 1 kg/ha, Data dianalisis menggunakan analisis varian (ANOVA) taraf kepercayaan 95% dan diuji lanjut dengan Beda Nyata Terkecil (BNT). Hasil penelitian memberikan informasi bahwa perlakuan pyraclostrobin pada benih, pyraclostrobin pada media, pyraclostrobin pada bibit dan perlakuan pyraclostrobin pada tanaman di lapangan dengan dosis 1 kg/ha pyraclostrobin sebanyak 3 kali penyemprotan di lapangan saat 30, 60 dan 90 hspt tidak meningkatkan pertumbuhan, hasil dan kesehatan tanaman cabai. Perlakuan pyraclostrobin pada bibit dapat menjadi rekomendasi untuk budidaya tanaman cabai, karena pertumbuhan buah yang lebih cepat waktu panen lebih awal dengan bobot segar buah yang lebih besar, sehingga dapat memberikan peluang bagi petani untuk memperoleh penghasilan lebih banyak.
Karakterisasi Morfologi dan Fotoperiodisme Padi Lokal (Oryza sativa L.) Indonesia
Authors: Ahimsa Mirza Bintang , Basunanda Panjisakti , Supriyanta Supriyanta
Published: August 2018

Penelitian berjudul Karakterisasi Morfologi dan Fotoperiodisme Padi Lokal (oryza sativa L.) Indonesia yang dilaksanakan pada bulan Desember 2015 sampai September 2016 di Kebun Tri-Dharma, Fakultas Pertanian, Universitas Gadjah Mada yang berlokasi di Desa Bantengan, Kecamatan Banguntapan, Bantul, Yogyakarta, menggunakan 11 kultivar padi lokal yang merupakan koleksi Departemen Budidaya Pertanian Fakultas Pertanian UGM yang bertujuan untuk mengkarakterisasi aspek morfologi dan mengidentifikasi pengaruh fotoperiode terhadap umur berbunga padi lokal Indonesia Penanaman dilakukan dalam kondisi lingkungan yang seragam dengan menggunakan rumah plastik seluas 5 x 5 m. Setiap kultivar ditanam dalam ember, setiap ember berisi satu tanaman. Data penelitian dianalisis mengikuti kaidah RAL (Rancangan Acak Lengkap) dengan tanggal tanam sebagai faktor. Hasil pengukuran panjang daun kultivar yang termasuk golongan daun panjang adalah 'Hitam Pagentan', 'Temen Ireng', dan 'Saka', kultivar yang termasuk golongan daun sedang adalah 'Bulu', 'Toraja', dan 'CempoIreng', kultivar yang termasuk golongan daun pendek adalah 'Menthik Wangi', 'Ciherang','Cukah, dan 'Andelrojo', dan kultivar yang termasuk golongan sagat pendek adalah'Nipponbare'. Pengukuran tinggi tanaman menunjukan padi yang memiliki tinggi tanamanterpendek yaitu 'Nipponbare', sedangkan yang tertinggi yaitu 'Temen Ireng' dan padi yangmemiliki ketegaran batang yang lemah seperti 'Bulu', 'Toraja', 'Hitam Pagentan', 'TemenIreng', 'Saka'. Kultivar 'Ciherang' dan Kultivar 'Menthik Wangi'. Hasil penelitian terhadapfotoperiodisme menunjukan kultivar yang tidak sensitif terhadap cahaya yaitu 'Nipponbare','Menthik Wangi' dan 'Cempo Ireng', sedangkan kultivar padi yang sensitif terhadap cahayayaitu 'Saka', 'Cukah', 'Andelrojo', 'Hitam Pagentan', 'Ireng temen', 'Toraja', 'Ciherang', dan'Bulu'.
Evaluasi Tipe Pemanfaatan Lahan Pertanian dalam Upaya Mitigasi Kerusakan Lahan Di Desa Giritirta, Kecamatan Pejawaran, Kabupaten Banjarnegara
Authors: Setiawan Bayu , Yudono Prapto , Waluyo Sriyanto
Published: August 2018

Tanaman sayur-sayuran dan bunga-bungaan banyak dihasilkan di tanah andisol dan alfisol dengan elevasi berkisar antara 350-1500 m di atas permukaan laut (dpl). Kentang di Indonesia merupakan tanaman yang memiliki nilai ekonomis cukup menjanjikan, sehingga petani berlomba-lomba untuk menanam tanaman tersebut. Lahan pegunungan yang sudah dimanfaatkan menjadi lahan pertanian perlu dilakukan evaluasi tipe pemanfaatan lahan guna mengetahui potensi produksi dan dampak kerusakan lahan yang timbul. Penelitian ini dilakukan di desa Giritirta, kecamatan Pejawaran, kabupaten Banjarnegara, Jawa Tengah yang dilaksanakan pada bulan Juli 2017-November 2017. Metode yang digunakan adalah penelitian survei terhadap kualitas lahan dengan pengamatan langsung di lapangan, dan mengumpulkan data-data dari instansi terkait, serta survei terhadap respons petani yang dilakukan dengan wawancara. Data primer yang diambil adalah data yang diperoleh secara langsung dari objek penelitian melalui kegiatan observasi, wawancara dan/atau kuisioner. Data sekunder adalah data yang diperoleh peneliti dari sumber yang sudah ada. Pemanfaatan lahan pertanian di lokasi penelitian berupa budidaya tanaman semusim dengan komoditas utama kentang (Solanum tuberosum L.) dengan teknik penanaman searah lereng serta minim tindakan konservasi lahan. Tingkat bahaya erosi tergolong dalam klas sangat berat di semua satuan lahan yang menyebabkan potensi kerusakan lahan tinggi dalam kurun waktu yang singkat. Cara mitigasi kerusakan lahan yang cocok untuk dilaksanakan yaitu dengan penanaman kopi arabika dan teh pada kelerengan curam (26%-40%) serta tanaman kina pada kelerengan sangat curam (>40%). Perbaikan lahan yang dilakukan dengan pembuatan dan perbaikan teras, penanaman strip rumput, serta pembuatan rorak