bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rural depopulation, social resilience and context costs in the border municipalities of central Portugal. Dichotomies of social reorganization vs absence of public policies
Authors: Poeta Fernandes Gonçalo
Published: June 2019

The border territories of the central region of Portugal with Castilla y Leon and Extremadura in Spain have been experiencing, during the last decades, depopulation dynamics and socioeconomic reorganizations that transformed the forms of work, the models of social organization and occupation and land use. The aim is to analyze and reflect on the demographic trajectories and their territorial implications, tackling depopulation with sustainability strategies. The local government initiatives have been unable to reverse trends of depopulation and the progressive abandonment of the settlements, agriculture and traditional industries, resulting in the loss of identit.
¿Un servicio civil de donación de sangre? En torno a una propuesta de Cécile Fabre | A civilian service of blood donation? On a Cécile Fabre’s proposal
Authors: Cuadros Aguilera Pol
Published: June 2019

Resumen: En su libro Whose Body is it Anyway? Justice and the Integrity of the Person, Cécile Fabre defiende que, en nombre de la justicia, los recursos de una sociedad deben redistribuirse entre los necesitados y que, entre esos recursos, está incluida la sangre humana, para cuya provisión propone la creación de un servicio civil obligatorio de donación de sangre. Lo que se hace aquí es examinar si, a pesar de lo paradójica que pueda resultar, cabría desarrollar su propuesta en nuestro país.
Abstract: In her book Whose Body is it Anyway? Justice and the Integrity of the Person, Cécile Fabre argues that, on behalf of justice, resources of a society should be redistributed to the needy and that, among those resources, human blood is included. For the provision of this material, she proposes the creation of a mandatory civilian service of blood donation. What we propose here is to check if, despite the paradox of his proposal, it could be developed a civilian service of blood donation in our country.
Las Nuevas Tecnologías y su impacto en los Derechos Humanos. Hacia un nuevo enfoque | New Technologies and their impact on Human Rights. Towards a new approach
Authors: Lucena Cid Isabel Victoria
Published: June 2019

Resumen: Este trabajo pretende analizar el impacto que los nuevos entornos tecnológicos tienen sobre los derechos humanos. En primer lugar, exponemos brevemente los riesgos que contraen y cómo impactan las nuevas tecnologías en la vida las personas y a sus derechos. En segundo lugar, teniendo presente los beneficios que representa el progreso científico-tecnológico en muchas esferas de la vida humana y de la sociedad, aportamos algunas reflexiones sobre la incidencia y la repercusión que estos avances tienen para las instituciones y defensores de derechos humanos. Concluimos reivindicando la necesidad de un análisis y reflexión sobre la construcción jurídica que ha responder ante esos nuevos desafíos.
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to analyse the influence of new technological environments on human rights. Firstly, we outline the risks posed by new technologies, and how they impact on the lives and rights of people. Secondly, bearing in mind the benefits brought by scientific-technological progress to many spheres of human life and society, we offer a few reflections about the incidence and repercussion of these advances for human rights institutions and advocates. We conclude by arguing for the need for analysis and reflection about the legal construction that must respond to these new challenges.
Hermenéutica de lo no-dicho. Una metodología para los estudios jurídicos | The hermeneutics of the not-said. A methodology for legal studies
Authors: García López Daniel J.
Published: June 2019

Resumen: En este artículo se propone una metodología para los estudios jurídicos basada en lo que se ha venido a llamar hermenéutica de lo no-dicho. A partir del pensamiento de Michel Foucault y Giorgio Agamben en torno a la arqueología y la genealogía, se plantea cómo enfocar el estudio del derecho en lo no-dicho como aquel saber sometido y no tematizado. Se trata de acudir a la intersección de saberes eruditos y saberes descalificados por la jerarquía epistémica con la intención no tanto de explicar como de implicar.

Abstract: This paper proposes a methodology for legal studies based on what has been called the hermeneutics of the not-said. Based on the thoughts of Michel Foucault and Giorgio Agamben on archeology and genealogy, this research approaches the study of law on what is not-said as subject and non-thematized knowledge. In brief, it is an attempt to consider the intersection between erudite and disqualified knowledge, in order to imply the crossroad rather than explain it.
Las virtudes de la ciencia ficción | Sci-Fi Virtues
Authors: García Figueroa Alfonso Jaime
Published: June 2019

Resumen: En este trabajo se examina el significado de la ciencia ficción para la reflexión jurídico-cinematográfica. Con ese fin, el autor explora los problemas a la hora de delimitar conceptualmente el género de ciencia ficción como paso previo al análisis de su virtualidad para promover el debate y la crítica jurídica, moral y política. 
 
Abstract: This paper aims at exploring the meaning of Sci-Fi within the very field of the so-called Law and Cinema. With this purpose, the author describes the issues raised when defining the concept of Sci-Fi. This first step is needed before analysing how and to what extent Sci-Fi can foster legal, moral and political debate and criticism.
La València quatrecentista a través dels ulls d'un notari: les notícies de Jaume Vinader
Authors: Fajardo Paños Javier , Faus Faus Miquel
Published: June 2019

El present treball mostra un estudi previ i una edició completa de totes les notícies realitzades pel notari valencià Jaume Vinader, conservades en els seus llibres notarials al llarg de gran part del segle XV (1419-1467). Aquestes petites cròniques ens permeten submergir-nos en alguns dels esdeveniments més importants de la centúria a través de la mirada i el record d'un notari, és a dir, a través d'una perspectiva diferent a les tradicionalment estudiades a través de documentació emanada pels poders polítics del moment. En definitiva, el cas que ací es presenta obri una nova perspectiva d'estudi de les fonts notarials, generalment emprades per a estudis econòmics i socials.
Basat en fets reals: processos i (in)cultura
Authors: Capdeferro Josep
Published: June 2019

Presentació monogràfic "Basat en fets reals: processos i (in)cultura"
Procesos criminales a instancia de parte privada. Apuntes sobre su praxis en el Real Consell Criminal valenciano en época de Felipe II
Authors: Hernández-Fernández Maria Dolores
Published: June 2019

Resumen: El presente trabajo indaga sobre las posibilidades de conocer el proceso criminal valenciano a través del estudio de los procesos instados por particulares ante el Real Consell Criminal de la Real Audiencia valenciana. El estudio de la praxis de la justicia del rey en el Real Consell Criminal puede aportar datos interesantes, más allá del conocimiento del proceso criminal valenciano o del funcionamiento de la justicia de la Real Audiencia, también sobre el funcionamiento de la justicia criminal en el Antiguo Régimen en general. 
 
 
Palabras clave: Real Consell criminal, proceso criminal, demanda, avocación, sagraments
 
Abstract: The present work explores the possibilities of knowing the valencian criminal process through the study of processes urged by individuals on the Real Consell Criminal of the Real Audiencia valenciana. The study of the justice praxis of the king in the Real Consell Criminal can provide interesting data, beyond the knowledge of the Valencian criminal process or the functioning of the justice of the Real Audiencia, also on the operation of criminal justice in the Old Order in general.
 
Keywords: Real Consell criminal, criminal process, demand, avocación, sagraments
Fab Labs y movimiento maker
Authors: Báscones Pere
Published: June 2019

Este artículo es una breve presentación de los Fab Labs como laboratorios de fabricación con medios digitales. En él se explican brevemente sus orígenes y su vinculación con el movimiento Maker. Tomando el caso representativo del Fab Lab Barcelona se explica su funcionamiento y su vinculación también con iniciativas que fomentan la innovación abierta y apuestan por modelos de Fab City.
Living in 3D
Authors: Garcia Annabel
Published: June 2019

En esta actividad de la asignatura Gráficos 3D, la alumna Annabel Garcia propone una escena inventada compuesta por objetos modelados con 3D Max. La escena se ha elaborado a partir de los conocimientos adquiridos a lo largo del semestre en la asignatura y con algunas condiciones a cumplir, como la iluminación o las texturas.
Tres IDEs para programar: Processing, Eclipse y Visual Studio
Authors: Soler-Adillon Joan
Published: June 2019

Los IDEs (Integrated Development Environment) son programas que se mueven en un entorno más complejo y más potente que los editores de código y, además, suelen estar más enfocados en un trabajo concreto en ciertos contextos o lenguajes. Este post analiza distintos IDEs y nos aconseja sobre como elegir el adecuado según nuestras necesidades.
Gestione sostenibile delle acque sotterranee nelle grandi aree urbane e reti di monitoraggio
Authors: Beretta Giovanni Pietro
Published: June 2019

Lo studio delle acque sotterranee nelle grandi aree urbane sarà compiuto nel prossimo futuro tramite l’impiego di codici di calcolo di notevole affidabilità, ai quali verranno affiancati studi e tecniche di indagine, in corso di sviluppo tecnologico, che potranno essere di valido aiuto [...].
Cambios religiosos y dinámicas demográficas: más allá de la Teoría de la Secularización. El caso del catolicismo en la ciudad de Córdoba, Argentina
Authors: Morello SJ Gustavo , Rabbia Hugo H.
Published: June 2019

This article critically explores the explanations of religious dynamics in Argentina based on Secularization Theory (TdS). Most scholarship uses political-institutional relations as an independent variable; therefore, TdS focuses on what takes place within the leadership of the institution and intermediate organizations. This research collects data directly from a century of baptism records in the city of Córdoba (Argentina) and compares it with the city’s birth rate. This analysis shows that the use of political-institutional variables fails to adequately explain religious dynamics, as measured in baptisms. The proposed hypothesis is that religious transformations are better understood when demographic variables are applied.
Genome sequencing and analysis ofSalmonella entericasubsp.entericaserovar Stanley UPM 517: Insights on its virulence-associated elements and their potentials as vaccine candidates
Authors: Ashari Khalidah Syahirah , Roslan Najwa Syahirah , Omar Abdul Rahman , Bejo Mohd Hair , Ideris Aini , Mat Isa Nurulfiza
Published: June 2019

Salmonella entericasubsp.entericaserovar Stanley (S. Stanley) is a pathogen that contaminates food, and is related toSalmonellaoutbreaks in a variety of hosts such as humans and farm animals through products like dairy items and vegetables. Despite the fact that several vaccines ofSalmonellastrains had been constructed, none of them were developed according to serovar Stanley up to this day. This study presents results of genome sequencing and analysis on ourS. Stanley UPM 517 strain taken from fecal swabs of 21-day-old healthy commercial chickens in Perak, Malaysia and usedSalmonella entericasubsp.entericaserovar Typhimurium LT2 (S. Typhimurium LT2) as a reference to be compared with. First, sequencing and assembling of theSalmonellaStanley UPM 517 genome into a contiguous form were done. The work was then continued with scaffolding and gap filling. Annotation and alignment of the draft genome was performed withS. Typhimurium LT2. The other elements of virulence estimated in this study includedSalmonellapathogenicity islands, resistance genes, prophages, virulence factors, plasmid regions, restriction-modification sites and the CRISPR-Cas system. TheS. Stanley UPM 517 draft genome had a length of 4,736,817 bp with 4,730 coding sequence and 58 RNAs. It was discovered via genomic analysis on this strain that there were antimicrobial resistance properties toward a wide variety of antibiotics. Tcf and ste, the two fimbrial virulence clusters related with human and broiler intestinal colonizations which were not found inS. Typhimurium LT2, were atypically discovered in theS. Stanley UPM 517 genome. These clusters are involved in the intestinal colonization of human and broilers, respectively. There were sevenSalmonellapathogenicity islands (SPIs) within the draft genome, which contained the virulence factors associated withSalmonellainfection (except SPI-14). Five intact prophage regions, mostly comprising of the protein encoding Gifsy-1, Fels-1, RE-2010 and SEN34 prophages, were also encoded in the draft genome. Also identified were Type I–III restriction-modification sites and the CRISPR-Cas system of the Type I–E subtype. As this strain exhibited resistance toward numerous antibiotics, we distinguished several genes that had the potential for removal in the construction of a possible vaccine candidate to restrain and lessen the pervasiveness of salmonellosis and to function as an alternative to antibiotics.
Estrogen receptor 1 gene polymorphisms (PvuII and XbaI) are associated with type 2 diabetes in Palestinian women
Authors: Ereqat Suheir , Cauchi Stéphane , Eweidat Khaled , Elqadi Muawiyah , Nasereddin Abedelmajeed
Published: June 2019

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial disease where both genetic and environmental factors contribute to its pathogenesis. The PvuII and XbaI polymorphisms of the estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) gene have been variably associated with T2DM in several populations. This association has not been studied in the Palestinian population. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between the PvuII and XbaI variants in the ESR1 and T2DM and its related metabolic traits among Palestinian women.

Methods

This case–control study included 102 T2DM and 112 controls in which PvuII and XbaI variants of the ESR1 gene were genotyped using amplicon based next generation sequencing (NGS).

Results

Allele frequencies of both PvuII and XbaI variants were not significantly different between patients and control subjects (P > 0.05). In logestic regression analysis adjusted for age and BMI, the ESR1 PvuII variant was associated with risk of T2DM in three genotypic models (P < 0.025) but the strongest association was observed under over-dominant model (TT+CC vs. TC) (OR = 2.32, CI [1.18–4.55] adjusted P = 0.013). A similar but non-significant trend was also observed for the ESR1 XbaI variant under the over-dominant model (AA+GG vs. AG) (OR = 2.03, CI [1.05–3.95]; adjusted P = 0.035). The frequencies of the four haplotypes (TA, CG, CA, TG) were not significantly different in the T2DM patients compared with control group (P > 0.025). Among diabetic group, an inverse trend with risk of cardio vascular diseases was shown in carriers of CG haplotype compared to those with TA haplotype (OR = 0.28, CI [0.09–0.90]; adjusted P = 0.035). Further, stratified analyses based on ESR1 PvuII and XbaI genotypes revealed no evidence for association with lipid levels (TC, TG, HDL, LDL).

Conclusions

This is the first Palestinian study to conclude that ESR1 PuvII and XbaI variants may contribute to diabetes susceptibility in Palestinian women. Identification of genetic risk markers can be used in defining high risk subjects and in prevention trials.
A Review on Ethno-pharmacology of Antidiabetic Plants
Authors: Omoirri M. A. , Odigie O. M. , Gbagbeke K. O. , Ajegi I. F. , Oseyomon J. O. , Okafoanyali O. J. , Eje V. I.
Published: June 2019

Abnormally emanates from difficulty in insulin secretion, Diabetes mellitus (DM) is known to be a metabolic disorder that causes an increase of blood glucose in blood streams. The lack of effective modern treatments, the lifelong treatment with modern medicines, overtime, its associated health side effects, and its expensive prices among others are the challenging existing realities that devastate the health and economic burdens its sufferers, especially in developing nations. Today, this has prompted the search for cheap, safe, and reliable drugs from medicinal plants. This study reviewed existing information on medicinal plants used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus from various sources. Several documents (published and unpublished papers, books among others) were consulted in compilation of this review. It is found that there is a wide, yet uneven support for active components of major medicinal.
Rapid Pathological Characterisation of Deightoniella torulosa by Artificial Inoculation of Three Varieties of Banana and Plantain
Authors: Brahima Camara , Sorho Fatogoma , Moussa Diarrassouba , Daouda Koné
Published: June 2019

Aims: Banana and plantain contribute to food security in Côte d'Ivoire. However, one of the major difficulties arising in its production remains parasitic constraints causing the loss of production. Among these constraints, leaf diseases cause more damage.

Methodology: This study was initiated to analyse the nature of host-pathogen interactions (resistance or sensitivity) between the fungus Deightoniella torulosa and certain varieties of banana and plantain in Côte d'Ivoire. The pathogenicity of the fungus was measured from artificial inoculation on leaf fragments that were kept alive on a specific culture medium in Petri dishes. This medium consisted of agar amended with Benzimidazole. Leaf’ fragments that survived inoculation of spore suspensions, exhibited the characteristic symptoms of the fungus Deightoniella torulosa. The impact of the fungus on the degradation of chlorophyll was noted.

Results: The results showed that the strains of Deightoniella torulosa have a pathogenic activity on the banana trees. The concentration of 75 μM of Benzimidazole incorporated into the survival medium can be used for inoculation tests on leaf fragments.

Conclusion: The Grande Naine cultivar could be used as a control indicator for D. torulosa.
Volatile Oil Composition of Some Commercial Medicinal Plants Sold in Konya, Turkey
Authors: Tulukcu Eray
Published: June 2019

This study was conducted to determine the essential oil composition of some medicinal plants from herbalists that local community have interest in; The research was carried out in the Medicinal Plants Laboratory of  Konya, in 2014 – 2015. The medicinal plants used in the research were supplied by herbalists and wholesalers who supply medicinal plants in Konya. At the end of this study, essential oil composition of medicinal plants ranged from 0.71 % (Daphne) to 5% (Thyme). The lavender essential oil composition ranged between 2% and 5%, while the composition of thyme essential oil ranged between 1% and 5%. There are several reasons for the change observed in the essential oil content of medicinal plants. In general, the effect of difference in the proportion of essential oils of the medicinal plants used in the study was as a result of the difference in regions, domestically and abroad where these plants were collected.
Population Incidence and Efficacy of Chemical Control against Rice Leaffolder (Cnaphnalocrocis medinalis Guenee) (Pyralidae: Lepidoptera)
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Hussain Mubashar , Umer Muhammad , Ejaz Numan , Noushahi Hamza Armghan , Atta Bilal , Rizwan Muhammad
Published: June 2019

Rice leaffolder has become a serious pest in the last two decades. It causes up to 50 to 70 percent leaf damage and consequently up to 46 percent yield losses in case of severe infestation. A field experiment was conducted at Rice Research Institute, Kala Shah Kaku Punjab Pakistan in which population incidence of rice leaffolder and efficacy of different insecticides evaluated. Population observed form end August to termination of Kharif season. Highest population of rice leaffolder was recorded in September and October. Insecticides, proved, viz., Karate 2.5EC (Lambda cyhalothrin) @ 160ml 86.65%, Pravo 10EC (fipronil +lambda cyhalothrin) @ 300 ml 85.25%, Hoopoe 4G (cartap hydrochloride) @ 9 kg 85.85, Oncol 3G (Benfuracarb) @8 Kg 89.53%, Mover Plus 4.3G (cartap hydrochloride) @ 4.5 Kg 82.77%, Star 4G (cartap hydrochloride) @ 9 kg 78.40%, Padan 4G(cartap hydrochloride) @ 9 kg 86.83%, Virtako 0.6G (thiamethoxam + chlorantraniliprole) @ 4 kg 72.05%, Ferterra 0.4G (Chlorantraniliprole) @ 4 kg 91.21%, Paidan 8G (Cartap hydrochloride) 8 kg 84.18% effective. Insecticide treatedplots yielded higher than the control. Highest 3.62 t/ha was recorded with Hoopoe 4G and lowest with Star 4G 2.99 t/ha as compared to 1.95 t/ha of control. All treatments were statistically at par with each other but significantly different from control. In case of yield benefits, 34.78 percent to 46.27 percent increase was recorded. All the treatments were proved statistically at par against beneficial fauna.
Studies on Character Improvement in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) by Heterosis
Authors: Salim M. Mahbubar Rahman , Rashid M. Harunur , Ali Md. Razzab , Akter Limu
Published: June 2019

Most of the tomato varieties in Bangladesh are of inbred type and produced low yield indicating need to develop high yielding variety through the hybridization. Heterosis breeding is used to improve yield and quality of tomato because traditional methods cannot be used to achieve this goal. A half diallel design was employed to develop F1s from seven parents of winter tomato. 21 F1s along with their parents were evaluated for yield and quality traits. Heterosis analysis revealed that heterotic vigor was present for growth and yield characters among hybrids. Heterosis for better parent was negative for days to flowering, days to harvest, harvest duration, number of locules, and number of seeds per fruit but positive for fruit set, number of fruits per plant, yield per plant, pericarp thickness and TSS. None of the hybrid was heterotic for all characters simultaneously. The hybrids G5, G13, G16, G17, G18, and G20 had 25.73, 19.92, 39.20, 36.49, 53.77, and 50.31% higher heterosis compared to the better parent, respectively, for fruit yield per plant as well as for many other yield contributing traits. High heterosis for yield appears to be the consequence of heterosis of yield attributing traits; therefore, these hybrids offer scope of developing improved commercial lines through heterosis breeding.
Comparative Assessment of Phytochemical Content and Antioxidant Potential of Azadirachta indica and Parquetina nigrescens Leaves
Authors: Airaodion Augustine Ikhueoya , Olatoyinbo Peace Olaoluwa , Ogbuagu Uloaku , Ogbuagu Emmanuel O. , Akinmolayan Joanne Dada , Adekale Olukunle Abraham , Awosanya Olaide Oladimeji , Agunbiade Aanu Paul , Oloruntoba Abiodun Paul , Obajimi Olajumoke Oluwaseun , Adeniji Adenike Rebecca , Airaodion Edith Oloseuan
Published: June 2019

Aim: The aim of this study is to compare the phytochemical content and antioxidant potential of Azadirachta indica and Parquetina nigrescens leaves.

Study Design: This study was made to fit a one way Analysis of Variance.

Place and Duration of Study: This research was carried out in Premedical Science Department, Educational Advancement Centre, Ibadan and Pharmaceutical Laboratory of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria between January and June, 2018.

Methodology: Both plants were harvested from the botanical garden, University of Ibadan. The qualitative and quantitative analyses as well as antioxidant potential of both plants were investigated. 

Results: The result of the qualitative analysis showed that both plants contained variety of phytochemicals.  The quantitative analyses showed that these phytochemicals were present in different concentrations. The concentration of phytate and total phenolics were significantly higher in A. indica when compared with those of P. nigrescens respectively at P<0.05. It was also observed that A. indica had lower concentrations in alkaloids, saponin, flavonoids and tannin when compared with those of P. nigrescens respectively. Also tested were antioxidants (ascorbic acid, DPPH and FRAP). The concentration of ascorbic acid was significantly higher in A. indica when compared with that of P. nigrescens at P<0.05. α,α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging potential of A. indica and P. nigrescens was investigated respectively at different concentrations with A. indica having the higher radical scavenging potential. The scavenging potential of DPPH was found to increase with increasing concentration of the extracts.

Conclusion: Result of this study showed that both plants are rich in phytochemicals and possess antioxidant potential. Hence, they might act as prophylactic and remedy for different diseases, such as cancer, atherosclerosis, obesity, etc. Parquetina nigrescens might be more potent than Azadirachta indica in acting as a remedy for different diseases.
Optimization of IBA for Efficient Survival of Micropropagated Garcinia indica Choisy Shoots Using in-vitro and ex-vitro Rooting Techniques
Authors: Mulik Gauri , Manvi Shubha , Ingale Gauri , Parasharami Varsha A.
Published: June 2019

Aims: The study focuses on optimization of concentration and time of rooting hormone exposure of IBA (Indole-3-Butyric Acid) for efficient survival of tissue culture raised Garcinia indica Choisy plantlets for in-vitro and ex-vitro rooting techniques.

Study Design: The subcultured microshoots of Garcinia indica were subjected to in-vitro and ex-vitro rooting trials by treating them with IBA of varying concentration and time, to standardize these particular parameters required by this auxin to induce rooting.

Place and Duration of Study: Rooting trials were carried out in Plant tissue culture-Biochemical Sciences Division of CSIR- National Chemical Laboratory, Pune 411008 between June 2018 and April 2019.

Methodology: Regularly subcultured five to six years old shoots from female trees of Garcinia indica were used for the study. Various concentrations of IBA in correlation with time were used for in-vitro and ex-vitro root induction. The rooted plantlets were then transferred to polyhouse for acclimatization and will further be planted in open field locations in June 2019.

Results: Induction of rooting was observed within thirty days of treatment with IBA. It was observed that 500ppm of IBA gave 30% rooting for in-vitro rooting trials whereas 2000ppm of IBA induced 80% rooting for shoots given ex-vitro rooting treatments. An interesting phenomenon that was observed for 70% of the shoots which failed to induce rooting by in-vitro treatment was that they survived with 100% rooting success under ex-vitro rooting conditions. The hardened plantlets were successfully acclimatized in the polyhouse with survival rate of 90% and were further transferred to polythene bags with rooting mixtures of sand: farmyard manure: coco peat (1:1:2). These plantlets have been healthy for the last 6 to 9 months and will be transported for field trials in June 2019.

Conclusion: Ex-vitro rooting technique was found to be more effective than in-vitro rooting. Thus, by optimizing the rooting hormone parameters, female plants of Garcinia indica can be successfully grown using tissue culture technology and can be propagated in large numbers to increase the female plant number in plantations.
Allelopathy Effects of Silver Nanoparticle Synthesis by Green Method from Pulicaria undulate
Authors: Elsharkawy Eman R.
Published: June 2019

Nanotechnology nowadays has good potential application in many fields, especially in agriculture and industries. This study investigated the allelopathic effects of aqueous extract of Pulicaria undulate and nanoparticle synthesis by eco-friendly method from silver nitrate and water extract of Pulicaria undulate on seed germination of two weeds species. Aqueous extract and silver Nanoparticles plant extract (AgNPs) had an inhibitory effect on seed germination of common (Lepidium sativum, and Trifolium repens) as compared with control. Lpidum stavium seed germination was inhibited by nanoparticle and water plant extract at 100% concentration at the end of 10 day incubation period, at low concentration 25% of aqueous extract and AgNPs the germination ratio of L. sativium reached (30% and 5%) where for Trifolium repens the germination ratio were (50% and 0% respectively). Nanoparticle are green synthesis by simple methods, using the aqueous extract of pulclaria leave and silver nitrate, the confirmation of nanoparticle was done by different methods UV-Vis spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The UV-visible spectra revealed the absorption peak at 449 nm, while the emission peak of Ag was detected at 466 nm. SEM analysis revealed that the synthesis of Ag NPs was spherical in shape and has an average size (13.3-23.8 nm). The concentration of plant showed a dangerous role in size and dispersion of NPs, the decrease occurs at low concentration this confirms the plant are oxidizing in nature. Herein we suggest the use of nanoparticle synthesis from Ag nitrate and aqueous extract of Pulicaria undulate as herbicide instead of synthetic herbicide after further studies to confirm the results.
Effects of Gaussian Beam Radius on the Conversion Efficiency and the Diffusion Capacitance of a Polycrystalline Silicon Solar Cell
Authors: Lilonga-Boyenga Nzonzolo Désiré , Mabika Camille Nziengui
Published: June 2019

This study presents effects of Gaussian beam radius on the power and the conversion efficiency () of a polycrystalline silicon solar cell. The two-dimensional continuity equation solved using finite element method, permits to determine the excess minority carriers density, the photocurrent density and the photo voltage from which the power and the conversion efficiency of the solar cell are calculated. The capacitance (C) and the space charge region (SCR) width are also examined for various values of the radius of gaussian luminous flow. The gaussian luminous flow effects on solar cell’s performances are highlighted in comparing with those of a classical monochromatic illumination.
Salicylic Acid Phytohormone Decreased the Toxicity Damage of Exogenous Lead Absorption in Seedlings of an Oilseed Plant, Brassica napus L. Grown in Hydroponic Conditions
Authors: Khozaei Mahdi , Jazi Shiva Boroumand
Published: June 2019

Oilseed plant, Brassica napus L. seedlings grown in hydroponic condition with different concentrations of Pb were treated with salicylic acid (SA) to investigate the role of exogenous salicylic acid in alleviating lead toxicity on biochemical and physiological activities of the plant. The results showed that application of different concentrations of Pb increased soluble sugars and reduced carbohydrate levels significantly in roots and shoots of the plants. The stress induced by application of Pb triggered significant inhibitory effects on growth and chlorophyll synthesis induced on the production of protein and proline and enhanced the levels of antioxidant activity. Salicylic acid (SA) treated plants showed alleviation increasing total dry mass, leaf area, shoot and root length as well as leaf total chlorophyll content in responses to Pb stress. Results revealed the importance of salicylic acid (SA) activity in enabling plants to reduce the soluble sugars and increase of insoluble sugar in heavy -metal-stressed plants. The content of proline and proteins were also reduced in plants were treated with salicylic acid. Our data provide evidence that salicylic acid treatment decreased the activity of antioxidant enzymes in plants were exposed to different levels of Pb.
Retracted: Wogonoside promotes apoptosis in gastric cancer AGS and SGC‐7901 cells through induction of mitochondrial dysfunction and endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Hu Xiao‐Miao , Xiang Jin‐Jian , Xiao Bao‐Lai , Huang Ying‐Fei , Xie Jian‐Ping
Published: June 2019

Wogonoside (Wg), a natural flavonoid, has anticancer effects against several human cancers. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the antitumor effects and underlying mechanisms of Wg on gastric cancer (GC) cell lines. We report that Wg treatment inhibited cell viability and induced apoptosis in human GC cell lines AGS and SGC‐7901, and also retarded GC tumor growth in xenograft mice in vivo. We also found that the Wg exerted its antitumor effects against GC cells via induction of reaction oxygen species accumulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Furthermore, C/EBP homologous protein knockdown inhibited apoptosis and increased the viability of Wg‐treated GC cells. Our findings may facilitate the development of novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of GC.
Two Birds with One Stone: Metal–Organic Framework Derived Micro‐/Nanostructured Ni2P/Ni Hybrids Embedded in Porous Carbon for Electrocatalysis and Energy Storage
Authors: Liu Xiaobin , Li Wenxin , Zhao Xudong , Liu Yongchang , Nan Ce‐Wen , Fan Li‐Zhen
Published: June 2019

The construction of bifunctional electrode materials for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) has been a hot topic of research. Herein, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) derived micro‐/nanostructured Ni2P/Ni hybrids with a porous carbon coating (denoted as Ni2P/Ni@C) are prepared using a feasible pyrolysis–phosphidation strategy. On the one hand, the optimal Ni2P/Ni@C catalyst exhibits superior HER performance with a low overpotential of 149 mV versus a reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) at 10 mA cm−2 and excellent durability. The density functional theory computations verify that the strong synergistic effect between Ni2P and Ni could optimize the electronic structure, thus rendering the enhanced electrocatalytic performance. On the other hand, the Ni2P/Ni@C electrode displays a reversible capacity of 597 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 1000 mA g−1 and improved rate capability as an anode for LIBs, owing to the well‐organized micro‐/nanostructure and conductive Ni core. In addition, the electrochemical reaction mechanism of the Ni2P/Ni@C electrode upon lithiation/delithiation is investigated in detail via ex situ X‐ray powder diffraction and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy methods. It is expected that the facile and controllable approach can be extended to fabricate other MOF‐based metal phosphides/metal hybrids for electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems.
Synthesis of Monofluoromethyl Selenoethers of Aryl and Alkyl from Organoselenocyanate via One‐Pot Reaction
Authors: Cao Yuan , Jiang Lvqi , Yi Wenbin
Published: June 2019

The first practical and feasible approach for the monofluoromethylselenolation of aryl and alkyl halides via one‐pot multistep synthesis using KSeCN and ICFH2 is described. Good yields and broad functional group compatibility were obtained. The successful preparation of monofluoromethylselenolated drug‐like compounds good practicability of this method. This protocol offered a number of new monofluoromethyl selenoethers, which would accelerate the use of such compounds in the areas of life science.

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Recent Considerations in the Application of RAPTA‐C for Cancer Treatment and Perspectives for Its Combination with Immunotherapies
Authors: Rausch Magdalena , Dyson Paul J. , Nowak‐Sliwinska Patrycja
Published: June 2019

The organometallic ruthenium(II) [Ru(arene)Cl2PTA] PTA ‐ 1,3,5‐triaza‐7‐phosphaadamantane compound, RAPTA‐C, represents an innovative anti‐cancer therapeutic and a better‐tolerated alternative to platinum (Pt)‐based chemotherapeutic drugs in the treatment of cancer. RAPTA‐C exhibits anti‐metastatic, anti‐angiogenic, and anti‐tumoral activities through protein and histone–deoxyribonucleic acid alterations. In comparison to other ruthenium‐based drugs, which have been recently evaluated in clinical trials, RAPTA‐C is strikingly competitive, especially when administered in combination with other targeted drugs. In this review, the uniqueness of RAPTA‐C as an anti‐cancer chemotherapeutic compared to metal‐based drugs under clinical evaluation and those approved by the Food and Drug Administration is emphasized; specifically, comparing the application of RAPTA‐C to platinum‐based drugs, for example, cisplatin and oxaliplatin, as well as to prominent ruthenium‐based compounds, such as NAMI‐A imidazolium‐trans‐tetrachloro(dimethylsulfoxide) imidazoleruthenium(III) and trans‐[tetrachlorobis (1Hindazole) ruthenate(III)] (KP1019)/(N)KP1339 (N)KP1339 ‐ sodium. Additionally, the possible correlation between RAPTA‐C and immune response modulation, as well as potential applications of RAPTA‐C in combination with immune therapeutic regimens, is highlighted.
Pressureless Crystallization of Glass for Transparent Nanoceramics
Authors: Wen Shaofei , Wang Yunpeng , Lan Bijiao , Zhang Weida , Shi Zhuo , Lv Shichao , Zhao Yujun , Qiu Jianrong , Zhou Shifeng
Published: June 2019

Transparent nanoceramics embedded with highly dense crystalline domains are promising for applications in missile guidance, infrared night vision, and laser and nuclear radiation detection. Unfortunately, current nanoceramics are strictly constrained by the stringent construction procedures such as super‐high pressure and containerless processing. Here, a pressureless crystallization engineering strategy in glass for elaboration of transparent nanoceramics and fibers is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. By intentional creation of a sharp contrast between nucleation and growth rates, the crystal growth rate during glass crystallization can be significantly suppressed. Importantly, this unique phase‐transition habit enables the achievement of transparent nanoceramics and even smooth fibers with extremely tiny crystalline size (≈20 nm) and high crystallinity (≈97%) under atmospheric pressure. This allows the generation of an attractive nonlinear optical response such as dynamic optical filtering and luminescence in the mid‐infrared waveband of 4300–4950 nm. These findings highlight that the strategy to switch the phase‐transition habit of glass into the unconventional crystallization regime may provide new opportunities for the creation of next‐generation nanoceramics and fibers.
On the ability of chromatographic mass balance to predict solute diffusivity in drug delivery systems
Authors: Rossi Filippo , Masi Maurizio
Published: June 2019

The ability to predict the drug diffusion coefficient within hydrogel‐based drug delivery devices has a pivotal role in the design of these materials. In the last years, many mathematical models have been developed, but they often rely on fitted parameters with a consequent limitation in terms of prediction. Indeed, they are mainly centered on the pure Fickian diffusion together with degradation and swelling contributions. However, especially with a drug concentration typical of pharmacological treatments, several other mechanisms such as drug–polymer and drug–drug interactions cannot be neglected. In this work, we checked the ability of a simple mathematical model to estimate diffusion coefficients of drugs loaded within hydrogel considered as a chromatographic stationary phase. Mathematical modeling satisfactorily matched with different sets of literature data proving that our assumptions are able to describe the key phenomena governing the device's behavior.
Electron Emission Devices for Energy‐Efficient Systems
Authors: Nirantar Shruti , Ahmed Taimur , Bhaskaran Madhu , Han Jin-Woo , Walia Sumeet , Sriram Sharath
Published: June 2019

Artificial intelligence platforms, high‐speed computation, and data handling systems increasingly need energy‐efficient systems. Electron emission was fundamental to the development of transistors and electronics over seven decades ago. This technology has a renewed emergence and includes implications in diverse fields ranging from electronics, telecommunication, defense, space exploration, medical science, and material science to televisions and displays. For such a vital field, a critical review of theories, current research directions, applications, and future prospects is invaluable. Herein, the ongoing research directions adopted to enhance the emitter performance are reviewed and the relative degree of their success is compared. This is supported by an overview of key electron emission, transport mechanisms, and ways to tune a particular mechanism for energy‐efficient applications. The diverse range of applications in this field, with a particular focus on electronics, is outlined. Exciting current developments in electron field emission that could revolutionize the electronic industry with a resurgence of nanoscale field emission transistor in the air medium are also discussed.
Palladium‐Catalysed Cross‐Coupling Reactions for the Synthesis of Chalcones
Authors: Rullah Kamal , Mohd Aluwi Mohd Fadhlizil Fasihi , Yamin Bohari M. , Juan Joon Ching , Wai Lam Kok
Published: June 2019

In this Minireview, we discuss some of the important palladium‐catalysed cross‐coupling reactions utilised in the synthesis of the enone system of chalcones. Examples given here not only exemplify the efficiency and practicality of new C−C bond formation of the enone system via palladium‐catalysed reactions but also reflect some of the revolutionary methods used for the preparation of a more complex and valuable chalcone scaffold which is known to be a privileged structure in the field of medicinal chemistry.
State of the planet
Authors: Brenner Logan
Published: June 2019

Earth is a dynamic planet, with warm and cool periods comprising its detailed climate history. We can find sudden shifts between these phases in the past; however, from the geological time scale perspective, for a transition to be abrupt, it occurs over millennia. In modern times, we are faced with a much faster rate of change, at least an order of magnitude faster than the transition from the last glacial period, about 20,000 years ago. Modern temperature rise is also accompanied by rising greenhouse gases, which are major contributors to climate change. Atmospheric CO2, a major greenhouse gas, is increasing about 100 times faster than it did during the last deglaciation. This CO2 input can be traced back to human activities and is a necessary piece to the global warming puzzle. The following details the current state of climate on Earth as well as some projections for future conditions. With the scientific outline of our changing climate, we can better understand our roles as contributors and individual and collective responsibility to mitigate these impacts.
Picroside II Protects SH‐SY5Y Cells From Autophagy and Apoptosis Following Oxygen Glucose Deprivation/Reoxygen Injury by Inhibiting JNK Signal Pathway
Authors: Wang Tingting , Zhu Lin , Liu Hongling , Yu Guoyi , Guo Yunliang
Published: June 2019

To explore the neuroprotective effect of picroside (Picr) II on C‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) signal pathway after oxygen glucose deprivation/reoxygen (OGD/R) in SH‐SY5Y cells. In vitro, SH‐SY5Y cells were used to establish the OGD/R model, which was divided into the control group, model group, Picr group, and SP600125 (SP) group. Cellular viability was measured by CCK8. Cytotoxicity was assessed with LDH assay kit. Ad‐GFP‐mRFP‐LC3 was used to monitor autophagosome and autolysosome. Apoptoic cells were detected by Annexin V‐FITC/PI apoptosis detection kit. The expressions of phospho‐JNK and phospho‐c‐Jun were determined by western blot (WB) and immunofluorescence. The expressions of phospho‐MKK4, phospho‐Bcl‐2, Bax, Beclin‐1, and LC3 I/II were determined by WB. In the control group, only limited apoptosis and autophagy was observed, and the expression of associated proteins was very low. After OGD/R, the cellular viability of SH‐SY5Y cells was reduced, whereas the cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and autophagy were increased, accompanied with an increase of phospho‐MKK4, phospho‐JNK, phospho‐c‐Jun, phospho‐Bcl‐2, LC3 II, Beclin‐1, and Bax. During the reoxygen, treatment with Picr II or SP600125 could strengthen the cellular viability of SH‐SY5Y cells, but repress the cytotoxicity, apoptosis, autophagy, and the expressions of associated protein. OGD/R could induce apoptosis and autophagy of SH‐SY5Y cells by activating JNK signal pathway. Picr II could protect SH‐SY5Y cells from autophagy and apoptosis following OGD/R by inhibiting JNK signal pathway. Anat Rec, 302:2245–2254, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Enhancing dynamic operation optimization feasibility for constrained model predictive control systems
Authors: Qi Xiaowen , Li Shaoyuan , Zheng Yi
Published: June 2019

This paper addresses a novel model predictive control algorithm for tracking to achieve an optimal operation for discrete‐time linear systems. The soft constraints characterizing the desired system performance are adjusted to solve the infeasibility problems caused by the original constraints. In this method, based on the principle of steady‐state error and constraints violation minimization, we firstly optimize the transition steady‐state with refined terminal invariant set, and slack variables as well as consider the dynamic constraints of the state constraints. Two types of soft constraints and slack variables are introduced to adjust state constraints online so that the MPC is feasible. Then, a dynamic optimization problem is solved which employs the constraints with minimum slack variables and takes the resulted steady‐state as the temporary target in current control period. The proposed method is able to minimize the violation of constraints and provides more potential to improve the control performance. Besides, the recursive feasibility and closed‐loop stability can be guaranteed by the combination of the new soft constraints adjustment method and tracking scheme. Finally, simulations at different circumstances prove the efficiency of the proposed method.
Increased lymph node yield indicates improved survival in locally advanced rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Wang Yaqi , Zhou Menglong , Yang Jianing , Sun Xiaoyang , Zou Wei , Zhang Zhiyuan , Zhang Jing , Shen Lijun , Yang Lifeng , Zhang Zhen
Published: June 2019

Purpose

It is recommended for colorectal cancer to harvest at least 12 lymph nodes (LNs) during surgery to avoid understaging of the disease. However, it is still controversial whether it is necessary to harvest from locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (neo‐CRT). The impact of lymph node yield (LNY) on prognosis in LARC patients was analyzed.

Materials/Methods

In total, 495 LARC patients who underwent neo‐CRT in 2006‐2015 were analyzed. After examining clinicopathological distribution differences between the LNY subgroups (with the threshold of 12), univariate and multivariate Cox survival analyses were performed. Survival plots were obtained from Kaplan‐Meier analyses. Similar subgroup analyses were performed according to the tumor regression grade (TRG) and metastatic status of post‐operational LNs.

Results

Of the 495 patients, 287 (57.98%) had an LNY of less than 12. Nearly no significant clinicopathological difference was found between the LNY subgroups, including the TRG scores. Multivariate survival analysis demonstrated that at least 12 LNs examined was an independent prognostic feature of good overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS), and distant metastasis free survival (DMFS), but not local recurrence free survival (LRFS). However, in the subgroup analyses, no association was found between LNY and prognosis in patients with good TRG scores (0‐1) or negative LNs.

Conclusions

For LARC patients treated with neo‐CRT, an LNY of at least 12 indicated an improved survival. Decreased LNY was not related to better tumor regression. It suggests that a sufficiently high LNY is still required, especially in those with a potentially poor tumor response.