bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolites of Tryptophane and Phenylalanine as Markers of Small Bowel Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Mašlanková Jana , Tóth Štefan , Tomečková Vladimíra , Tóth Tímea , Katz Matan , Veselá Jarmila , Hertelyová Zdenka , Schnitzer Marek , Živčák Jozef , Mareková Mária
Published: August 2018

Ischemic-reperfusion injury of the small intestine is an acute clinical condition with high mortality rate. This study describes the changes in levels of phenylalanine and tryptophan metabolites in intestinal homogenates and urine samples of Wistar male rats after 60 minutes of mesenteric ischemia and different reperfusion periods (1, 24, 30 hours) in comparison with a control group without the ischemia. The ischemic-reperfusion injury was quantified by the histopathological injury index. The levels of serotonin, epinephrine, and norepinephrine were determined in the intestinal homogenate and epinephrine, vanillylmandelic acid, and the 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid was analyzed in urine using the HPLC method. The statistically significant increased level of serotonin, epinephrine and norepinephrine were detected in the intestinal samples after 24 hours of reperfusion (p<0.01); even the most elevated serotonin level was observed after one hour of reperfusion (p<0.001). A statistically significant decreased level of vanillylmandelic acid was observed after one hour of reperfusion, but it significantly increased after 24 hours (p<0.05) in urine. The elevated level of the 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid after one hour and 24 hours after reperfusion (p<0.05) were determined in the urine. The most significant elevated epinephrine level was observed after 24 hours of reperfusion (p<0.001) in urine. Results showed a potential role of serotonin as an early biomarker (after one hour of reperfusion) of small intestinal damaged homogenate, while the best predictor of intestinal injury in urine was epinephrine, which was elevated after 24 hours.
Statistical Variations and New Correlation Models to Predict the Mechanical Behavior and Ultimate Shear Strength of Gypsum Rock
Authors: Mohammed Ahmed , Mahmood Wael
Published: August 2018

In this study, over 1000 data from the several research studies was used to characterize and compare the density, strengths, modulus, flexural strength, porosity and the ultimate shear strengths of the calcium rocks. The gypsum rock data were statistically analyzed, quantified and compared with the limestone rock data. The ranges of the densities for gypsum rock (CaSO4·2H2O) and limestone rock (CaCO3) were 2.10 to 2.83 gm/cm3 and 1.70 to 2.75 gm/cm3, respectively. The compressive and tensile strengths of the gypsum and limestone rocks varied from 2 MPa to 250 MPa and 1.8 MPa to 25 MPa, respectively. Vipulanandan correlation model was effective in relating the modulus of elasticity, flexural strength, with the relevant strengths of the rocks. A new nonlinear Vipulanandan failure criterion was developed to better quantify the tensile strength, pure shear (cohesion) strength and predict the maximum shear strength limit with applied normal stress on the gypsum and limestone rocks. The prediction of the failure models for the two rock types was also compared to the Mohr-Coulomb failure model. The Vipulanandan failure model predicted the maximum shear strength limit was, as the Mohr-Coulomb failure model does not have a limit on the maximum shear strength. With the Vipulanandan failure model based on the available data, the maximum shear strengths predicted for the gypsum and limestone rocks were 64 MPa and 114 MPa, respectively.
Speleotourism in Slovenia: balancing between mass tourism and geoheritage protection
Authors: Tičar J. , Tomić N. , Breg Valjavec M. , Zorn M. , Marković S. B. , Gavrilov M. B.
Published: August 2018

Slovenia is considered as the cradle of karst geotourism as cave tourism started there as early as the Middle Ages. To date more than 12,000 caves were discovered from which 22 have the status of tourist caves. From these, 10 were assessed using the M-GAM model (Modified Geosite Assessment Model) to gain information for better future management strategies. The results show that visitors of Slovenian tourist caves mostly appreciate their natural values, as they prefer caves without major tourism infrastructure and they pay attention to their protection status. The model also confirmed that the two most important tourist caves (Postojna Cave and Škocjan Caves) have the leading geotourism role and that the management of tourist caves via a regional park as is the case of Škocjan Caves is an example of good practice.
Radical transfer system in the enzymatic dehydrogenative polymerization (DHP formation) of coniferyl alcohol (CA) and three dilignols
Authors: Matsushita Yasuyuki , Okayama Masaya , Aoki Dan , Yagami Sachie , Fukushima Kazuhiko
Published: August 2018

No clear picture has yet been elaborated concerning the mechanism of lignin growth, and thus this topic is the focus of the present paper. Namely, the enzymatic dehydrogenative polymerization (DHP formation) of coniferyl alcohol (CA, as a monolignol) and three dilignols and their reaction kinetics were investigated. The dilignols [guaiacylglycerol-β-coniferyl ether (IβO4
), dehydrodiconiferyl alcohol (IIβ5
), and pinoresinol (IIIββ
)] and CA as a monolignol [(3-OCD3)-coniferyl alcohol (CAOCD3
)] were synthesized and subjected to enzymatic DHP formation. The dilignol derived from CAOCD3
could be identified by its higher molecular weight in comparison with the starting dilignols (IβO4
, IIβ5
, and IIIββ
). Based on the observed consumption rate of the CA and its dilignols, it was proposed that a radical transfer system exists between the dilignols, which is generated from the CA and the starting substrates.
The diagnostic challenge of ovarian carcinoma in normal-sized ovaries: a report of two cases
Authors: Yong Soon Leong , Dahian Safilah , Ramlan Aznim Hani , Kang Marcus
Published: August 2018

Normal-sized ovarian carcinoma syndrome (NOCS) is a rare condition characterised by malignancy identified in ovaries of normal size with abdominal metastasis. We report two cases of advanced ovarian carcinoma with ovaries of normal size. The first case was a 13-year-old adolescent with malignant ascites and bilateral normal sized multicystic ovaries detected on ultrasound. Serum cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) and lactate dehydrogenase were markedly raised. A computed tomography (CT) scan showed the presence of thick omental cake but no ovarian tumour. An ultrasound-guided biopsy of the omental cake was undertaken. A histopathological examination and immunohistochemical studies of omentum caking confirmed a diagnosis of high-grade serous carcinoma of ovarian in origin. Despite neoadjuvant chemotherapy, she deteriorated rapidly with acute renal failure and respiratory distress. She succumbed to her disease 10 weeks after diagnosis. The second case, a 69-year-old postmenopausal female presented with malignant ascites and ultrasound evaluation showed hydrometra and bilateral atrophic ovaries. CA 125 was significantly raised. A laparoscopic biopsy of the left ovary and endometrial sampling were performed. A diagnosis of synchronous primary high grade papillary serous ovarian cystadenocarcinoma and endometrial adenocarcinoma were revealed. Relapse occurred despite ongoing adjuvant chemotherapy. We concluded that a preoperative definitive diagnosis of NOCS is difficult. Strong clinical suspicion is needed when all the important causes of malignant ascites are excluded. Radiological-guided biopsy and laparoscopic biopsy are useful to achieve the diagnosis of NOCS.
Induced-Pitting Behaviors of MnS Inclusions in Steel
Authors: Yang Shufeng , Zhao Mengjing , Feng Jie , Li Jingshe , Liu Chengsong
Published: August 2018

This paper investigated the effects of MnS inclusions on inducing pitting in steel. Three different cooling methods were used to control the morphology, size, and distribution of MnS inclusions. AC (alternating current) impedance spectroscopy experiments and potentiodynamic polarization experiments were carried out for different sizes of MnS inclusions. The corrosion immersion experiment was conducted to study the pitting corrosion process in different morphologies of MnS inclusions. The experiment results showed that pitting corrosion occurred around MnS inclusions and pitting was induced along the junction of MnS inclusions and their surrounding steel matrix. Also, the sensitivity of inducing-pitting of MnS inclusions was changed with the change of the average size of MnS in steel and it had a critical size of MnS. The deeper the MnS inclusions were buried in steel matrix, the more difficult it was for it to dissolve and fall off. Herein, it would cause greater damage.
Local inhibition of carbonic anhydrase does not decrease sweat rate
Authors: Moore Jeff , Northway Sarah , Wells Nicole , Woolf Emily , Buono Michael J.
Published: August 2018

Background:

The purpose of this study was to measure sweat rate during exercise in the heat after directly inhibiting carbonic anhydrase (CA) in eccrine sweat glands via transdermal iontophoresis of acetazolamide. It was hypothesized that if CA was important for sweat production, local administration of acetazolamide, without the confounding systemic effects of dehydration typically associated with past studies, would have a significant effect on sweat rate during exercise.

Methods:

Ten healthy subjects volunteered to exercise in the heat following acetazolamide or distilled water iontophoresis on the forearm.

Results:

The distilled water iontophoresis site had a mean sweat rate during exercise in the heat of 0.59±0.31 μL/cm2/min, while the acetazolamide iontophoresis site had a mean sweat rate of 0.63±0.36 μL/cm2/min (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

The most important finding of the current study was that iontophoresis of acetazolamide did not significantly decrease sweat rate during exercise in the heat. Such results suggest that in past studies it was systemic dehydration, and not CA inhibition at the level of the sweat gland, that caused the reported decreased sweat rate.
Effect of caffeine on alcohol consumption and alcohol-induced conditioned place preference in rodents
Authors: Okhuarobo Agbonlahor , Igbe Ighodaro , Yahaya Abdulmajid , Sule Zakariya
Published: August 2018

Background

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of caffeine on alcohol consumption with or without deprivation and alcohol-induced conditioned place preference.

Methods

In the present study, we examined the effects of caffeine (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg) on alcohol consumption in Wistar rats with or without periods of deprivation in an unlimited-access, two-bottle, free choice drinking procedure after a stable baseline alcohol consumption was established. Conditioned place preference (CPP) was established by intraperitoneal injections of alcohol (2 g/kg) in a 12-day conditioning schedule in mice. The effect of caffeine (3 mg/kg) on CPP expression was determined by a final post-conditioning test following 12 conditioning sessions with alcohol. The effect of caffeine (3 mg/kg) on the reinstatement of alcohol-induced CPP was determined in a final post-conditioning test following 12 conditioning sessions with alcohol and the extinction of alcohol-induced CPP.

Results

Alcohol deprivation for 3 days did not result in alcohol deprivation effect (ADE). While caffeine (10 mg/kg) caused a significant (p<0.05) reduction in alcohol consumption compared with the baseline following a period of alcohol deprivation, it did not cause a change in alcohol consumption compared with the baseline in the study without alcohol deprivation phase. Caffeine significantly (p<0.05) reduced the expression of alcohol-induced CPP compared to saline and blocked the reinstatement of alcohol-induced CPP following the injection of a priming dose (0.4 g/kg) of alcohol.

Conclusions

Given that caffeine is an adenosine receptor antagonist, our findings suggest a role for adenosine receptors in the alcohol reward and alcohol-seeking behaviour.
Asymmetric dimethylarginine and soluble inter-cellular adhesion molecule-1 serum levels alteration following ginger supplementation in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Zarezadeh Meysam , Saedisomeolia Ahmad , Khorshidi Masoud , Kord Varkane Hamed , Makhdoomi Arzati Motahareh , Abdollahi Mina , Yekaninejad Mir Saeed , Hashemi Rezvan , Effatpanah Mohammad , Mohammadzadeh Honarvar Niyaz
Published: August 2018

Aims

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are prone to cardiovascular disease (CVD) due to inflammation process and oxidative stress. ADMA (Asymmetric dimethylarginine) and ICAM-1 (inter-cellular adhesion molecule-1) play an important role in CVD pathogenesis. Ginger as an anti-oxidant and anti-inflammation can effect on these biomarkers. The aim of present study was to characterize the effect of ginger supplementation on ADMA and ICAM-1 serum levels in patients with T2DM.

Methods

The present study is a randomized double-blind clinical trial which is conducted among 45 diabetic patients (nginger=23, nplacebo=22). The participants were randomly divided into two intervention and placebo groups which were received 2 g ginger powder and 2 g wheat flour for 10 weeks, respectively. ADMA and ICAM-1 concentration were measured by ELISA method.

Results

Ginger supplementation decreased ADMA serum levels significantly (P=0.002) and sICAM-1 serum levels marginally (P=0.097) in supplementation group after intervention. No significant difference was observed between placebo and supplementation groups.

Conclusions

Present study was conducted among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to investigate the effect of ginger supplementation on ADMA and sICAM-1 levels. There was a significant decrement in ADMA serum concentration and slight reduction in sICAM-1 levels in intervention group. The amount of reduction in both biomarkers was not statistically significant in between-groups comparison.
Modulatory effect of some citrus (Citrus limon, Citrus reticulata, Citrus maxima) peels on monoamine oxidase, phosphodiesterase-5 and angiotensin-1 converting enzyme activities in rat heart homogenate
Authors: Ademosun Ayokunle O. , Adebayo Adeniyi A. , Oboh Ganiyu
Published: August 2018

Background

Citrus peels have been reported useful in folk medicine for the management of cardiovascular diseases, but there is dearth of information on the possible mechanisms for their therapeutic action. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of methanolic extracts from some citrus [lime (Citrus limon), tangerine (Citrus reticulata), shaddock (Citrus maxima)] peels on some enzymes relevant to the management of cardiovascular diseases [monoamine oxidase (MAO), phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) and angiotensin-1-converting enzyme (ACE)].

Methods

Effect of methanolic extracts of lime, tangerine and shaddock peels on MAO, PDE-5 and ACE were carried out using standard methods. In addition, the ability of the extracts to prevent oxidative damage in rat heart homogenates was also investigated. Finally, the total polyphenol content of extracts was determined.

Results

The results revealed that methanolic extracts of lime, tangerine and shaddock peels inhibited MAO, PDE-5, ACE and pro-oxidants induced lipid peroxidation in rat heart homogenate in a concentration-dependent manner.

Conclusions

Findings in this study revealed citrus peel methanolic extracts as natural inhibitor of enzymes (MAO, PDE-5 and ACE) implicated in cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, citrus peels could help in the management of cardiovascular diseases possibly through inhibition of these enzymes.
Performance Evaluation of Two Dimensional Photonic Crystal Based All Optical AND/OR Logic Gates
Authors: Jayabarathan Jayson K , Subhalakshmi G , Robinson S
Published: August 2018

In this paper, OR and AND logic gate functions are realized in a triangular lattice using two dimensional photonic crystal (2DPC). The proposed design of logic gates are based on the phenomenon of resonance and interference. The OR and AND logic gates are constructed by varying the rod radius and by creating Y-shaped waveguide in the structure. Initially, the OR gate is designed with reference input and without reference input and it’s extended for AND gate. The functional parameters of the logic gates such as response period, bit rate, contrast ratio and field distribution of different logics are investigated through 2D finite difference time domain (FDTD) method. The contrast ratio, response period, bit rate and size of the three input OR gate are 30 dB, 0.52 ps, 1.92 Tbps and 12.6 μm×11 μm, respectively. Similarly, the aforementioned parameters are estimated for two input OR gate, two input AND gate and three input AND gate. The proposed logic gates are highly desirable for integrated optics.
Prediction of postnatal developmental disabilities using the antenatal fetal neurodevelopmental test: KANET assessment
Authors: Hata Toshiyuki , Kanenishi Kenji , Mori Nobuhiro , AboEllail Mohamed Ahmed Mostafa , Hanaoka Uiko , Koyano Kosuke , Kato Ikuko , Kusaka Takashi
Published: August 2018

Objective

To assess the usefulness of the antenatal fetal neurodevelopmental test for the prediction of postnatal developmental disabilities.

Methods

Fetal behavior was assessed with Kurjak’s antenatal neurodevelopmental test (KANET) using four-dimensional ultrasound between 28 and 38 weeks of gestation. A score range of 0–5 was characterized as abnormal, from 6 to 9 was considered borderline, and 10–16 was normal. After birth, follow-up was conducted for at least 2 years in all fetuses.

Results

There were 337 normal (95.47%) and 16 borderline (4.53%) cases among the 353 cases studied, whereas there was no abnormal case. Five cases with postnatal developmental disabilities (one case of Werdig-Hoffmann disease diagnosed just after delivery, one case of autism spectrum disorder diagnosed at 24 months, one case of Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy diagnosed at 9 months and two cases of developmental disorders diagnosed at age 3 and 18 months) were noted among the 337 normal cases (1.48%), whereas three cases with developmental disabilities (one case of motor development delay diagnosed at 6 months, one case of Duchenne muscular dystrophy diagnosed at 18 months and one case of autism spectrum disorder diagnosed at age 30 months) were found among the 16 borderline cases (18.75%). There was a significant difference in the prevalence of postnatal developmental disabilities between the normal and borderline KANET groups (P<0.001).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the KANET assessment may be a useful diagnostic modality for the prediction of postnatal developmental disabilities.
The mechanism of mitral regurgitant jets identified by 3-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography
Authors: Iida Ryoji , Aono Mayu , Choy Jonathan
Published: August 2018

This study is a case report, which presents a case of severe mitral regurgitation in a 77-year-old man. Two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), regurgitant jets directed anteriorly in early systole and centrally to laterally in late systole were seen, while three-dimensional TEE showed a flail posterior middle scallop not only angulated centrally, but also laterally, which provided insight into the mechanism of mitral regurgitant jet direction. This case demonstrates the clinical usefulness of 3-dimensional TEE for identifying the mechanism of mitral regurgitant jets.

The institution where the figures and the videos were recorded: Division of Cardiology, Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Direct laser writing of vertical junctions in graphene oxide films for broad spectral position-sensitive detectors
Authors: Feng Rui , Hu Laigui , Zhang Youwei , Zaheer Muhammad , Qiu Zhi-Jun , Cong Chunxiao , Nie Qingmiao , Qin Yajie , Liu Ran
Published: August 2018

Heterostructures with built-in electric fields are crucial for charge separation and lateral photovoltaic effect in current position-sensitive detectors (PSDs), which have to be produced by combining semiconductors with metal or other semiconductors to form various vertical junctions (e.g. Schottky junctions) via complicated and high-cost manufacture processes. In the present work, it was found that vertical junctions can be directly written and patterned inside graphene oxide (GO) films with gradient C/O ratios by laser scribing due to the optical filter effect of the films and the formation of reduced GO (rGO) layers. Such junctions were verified to show the capability for high-precision position sensing on the micrometer scale, owing to the lateral photovoltaic effect. These self-powered laser-scribed PSDs can exhibit a small nonlinearity of <5.4%, which is far less than the acceptable level of 15%. A fast response time of about 1 ms can be obtained under a zero bias voltage, which is the fastest speed among the photodetectors based on pure rGO. Electron lateral diffusion in the upper layers of the laser-scribed devices was found to play a main role. These suggest that laser-scribed vertical junctions inside rGO are promising for high-precision displacement sensing, with the capability of low cost, flexibility, and passive operation mode.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[tetraaqua(μ2-4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)pyridine-κ2
N:N′))zinc(II)] thiophene-2,5-dicarboxylate, C14H17N3O8ZnS
Authors: Xue Li-ping
Published: August 2018

C14H17N3O8ZnS, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 6.3962(5) Å, b = 6.9439(7) Å, c = 20.4208(19) Å, α = 93.040(8)°, β = 96.337(7)°, γ = 110.970(8)°, V = 837.54(13) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0390, wR
ref(F2) = 0.0769, T = 288(10) K.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[diiodido-(μ2-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenyl-4-((pyridin-3-ylmethylene)amino)-1,2-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-one-κ2
N:O)zinc(II)], C17H16I2N4OZn
Authors: Zhang Hong , Zou Xiaoqing , Feng Qiran , Xu Baoming , Pang Haixia
Published: August 2018

C17H16I2N4OZn, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 8.8359(15) Å, b = 15.585(3) Å, c = 15.163(3) Å, β = 95.534(3)°, V = 2078.4(6) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0364, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1265, T = 298(2) K.
Crystal structure of diaqua-bis(3,3-dimethylacrylato-κ2
O,O′)zinc(II), C10H18ZnO6
Authors: Kang Jaeun , Ok Kang Min , Do Junghwan
Published: August 2018

C10H18O6Zn, monoclinic, P2/c (no. 13), a = 11.0730(2) Å, b = 5.52600(10) Å, c = 10.8410(2) Å, β = 100.350(1)°, V = 652.56(2) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0318, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0842, T = 293(2) K.
Low-cost monitoring buoys network tracking biogeochemical changes in lakes and marine environments – a regional case study
Authors: Vitale Alejandro J. , Perillo Gerardo M.E. , Genchi Sibila A. , Arias Andrés H. , Piccolo María Cintia
Published: August 2018

Lakes, rivers, estuaries and ocean waters control many important natural functions at the regional-global level. Hence, integrative and frequent long-term water monitoring is required globally. This paper describes the main features and innovations of a low-cost monitoring buoys network (MBN) deployed in a temperate region of Argentina. The MBN was designed to record extended time series at high-frequency, which is of great value for the scientific community, as well as for decision-makers. In addition, two innovative designs belonging to two versions of moored buoys (i.e. shallow waters and coastal marine waters) were presented. It was shown that the cost of either of two versions of the buoy is low, which can be considered as the main advantage.
Size and shape control of metal nanoparticles in millifluidic reactors
Authors: Lohse Samuel E.
Published: August 2018

Engineered metal nanoparticles (metal NPs) possess unique size -dependent optical and electronic properties that could enable new applications in biomedicine, energy generation, microelectronics, micro-optics, and catalysis. For metal NPs to make a mark in these fields, however, new synthetic strategies must be developed that permit NP synthesis on the kilogram scale, while maintaining precise control over NP physiochemical properties (size, shape, composition, and surface chemistry). Currently, NP batch syntheses produce product on the milligram scale and rely on synthetic strategies that are not readily amenable to scale-up. Flow reactor systems (including lab-on-a-chip devices) provide a synthesis platform that can circumvent many of the traditional limitations of batch-scale NP syntheses. These reactors provide more uniform reagent mixing, more uniform heat transfer, opportunities to interface in situ monitoring technology, and allow product yield to be scaled up simply by running multiple reactors in parallel. While many NP syntheses have been successfully transferred to microfluidic reactor systems, microfluidic reactor fabrication is time intensive and typically requires sophisticated lithography facilities. Consequently, millifluidic flow reactors (reactors with channel dimensions of 0.5–10.0 mm) are gaining popularity in NP synthesis. These millifluidic reactors provide many of the same synthetic advantages as microfluidic devices, but are simpler to construct, easier to reconfigure, and more straightforward to interface with in situ monitoring techniques. In this chapter, we will discuss the progress that has been made in developing millifluidic reactors for functionalized metal NP synthesis. First, we will review the basic wet-chemical strategies used to control metal NP size and shape in batch reactors. We will then survey some of the basic principles of millifluidic device design, construction, and operation. We will also discuss the potential for incorporating in situ monitoring for quality control during synthesis. We will conclude by highlighting some particularly relevant examples of millifluidic metal NP synthesis that have set new standards for metal NP size, shape, and surface chemistry control.

Graphical Abstract:

Credit: Sam Lohse
Phytofunctionalized silver nanoparticles: green biomaterial for biomedical and environmental applications
Authors: Jaffri Shaan Bibi , Ahmad Khuram Shahzad
Published: August 2018

Variegated physicochemical routes with emerging modifications have been adopted and reported for silver nanoparticle synthesis for centuries. Nano-biotechnology aimed at the synthesis of nanomaterials, including silver nanoparticles, through utilization of biological media has acquired an auspicious role in science for human welfare. Despite recurrent nanoscale researches on physicochemical routes, coeval stages are predominated by greener methods in silver nanoparticle synthesis for the utilization of its inherent toxicity and exceedingly smaller sizes for biological and environmental applications. One of the principles of green routes for silver nanoparticle synthesis is reduction and stabilization via phytochemicals extracted from plants in a one-pot protocol of phytofunctionalization. Plants are preferred for their abundant availability, environmental non-toxicity and economical favorability and chiefly for the ease of aptness, unlike microbial pathways having tedious requirements of cellular culture maintenance conditions. The present work reviewed the most recent milestones set in the selection of types and parts of plants and optimized synthetic conditions employed in the fabrication of silver nanoparticles, in addition to quantitative and qualitative characterization. Furthermore, the use of phytofunctionalized silver nanoparticles for microbial growth inhibition and environmental remediation was also studied. Through the meticulous review of literature, potential applications were highlighted, which can provide researchers with a plethora of avenues for future investigations for remediation of the environment, in terms of both combating pathogenic microbes and environmental detoxification.
Molecular structures of M(II) chelates with compartmental (N,N)-, (N,O)- and (N,S)-donor ligands and articulated metal chelate cycles
Authors: Mikhailov Oleg V.
Published: August 2018

Molecular structures of various d-element M(II) ion chelates with compartmental (N,N)-, (N,O)-, and (N,S)-donor atomic ligands forming as a result of complexing with M(II) three or four articulated metal chelate cycles have been systematized and discussed in detail. It has been shown that, on the whole, such metalmacrocyclic compounds, as a rule, have molecular structures with non-coplanar chelate nodes and non-coplanar macrocycles. The review covers the period 2000–2017.
Track Access Charge Control in the Railway Sector, Its Interaction with Specific Financing Structures and the Determination of Incentives – The German Infrastructure Manager DB Netz AG
Authors: Trampisch Christiane
Published: August 2018

The contribution explains the financing system of the German railway sector. Market players like infrastructure managers, railway undertakings, the federal and the regional level (“Länder”) and the Bundesnetzagentur are interrelated due to the institutional setting, especially due to the control- and supervision duties of Bundesnetzagentur. This also concerns the financial flows related interconnections of market players and the government level. Bundesnetzagentur is under the new rail regulation law in charge of controlling the charging system of infrastructure managers. The new legal framework allows for the first time an incentive regulation related to infrastructure charges and sets incentives for the infrastructure manager to decrease costs and increase the traffic on the network.
Dialetheism and the Problem of the Missing Difference
Authors: Moss Gregory Scott
Published: August 2018

During the past few decades, Graham Priest has advocated for Dialetheism, the controversial position that some contradictions are true. Dialetheism entails that the Law of Non-Contradiction fails. In recent decades the philosophical community has begun to recognize the significant challenge posed by Priest’s arguments. Priest has primarily appealed to paradoxes of self-reference, such as the Liar Paradox, to support his position. Following Priest’s approach, I offer another argument for Dialetheism, which appeals to a self-referential paradox that has been more or less ignored in the philosophical literature on the subject: the paradox of the missing difference. When we reflect on the question ‘what is a concept?’ from the perspective of a classical model of conceptual analysis, we arrive at the paradox of the missing difference. Although contradictions may be improbable, when we reflect on the question ‘how is the domain of concepts possible?’ we are led to a startling principle: without dialetheia any theory concerning concept formation (from a classical perspective on concepts) would be impossible. Dialetheism is a necessary condition for the existence of a domain of concepts in general. As a result, Dialetheism may even be more central to philosophical reflection than even dialetheists themselves have recognized.
Effect of B4C particle size on the mechanical properties of B4C reinforced aluminum matrix layered composite
Authors: Xu Guangye , Yu Yingshui , Zhang Yubo , Li Tingju , Wang Tongmin
Published: August 2018

Reinforcement particle size is very important for the performance of metal ceramic composites. This work studied the influence of B4C particle size on the mechanical properties of Al matrix layered composites. These composites were fabricated using a simplified semicontinuous casting and hot-rolling process. To obtain an optimized filling structure of particles, Horsfield filling principle was applied to determine the size and mass fraction of B4C particles. Four sizes of B4C particles were used with various combinations. The results showed that with the increase of the B4C particle size and fine B4C mass fraction, the hardness of the composites decreases whereas the impact strength and ultimate tensile strength increase. The residual stress at interface should be responsible for the variation in properties. Besides, the interparticle distance also contributes to the change in impact strength and ultimate tensile strength.
On classifiers and their absence in Classical and Colonial Nahuatl
Authors: Stolz Thomas
Published: August 2018

This paper addresses the issue of the reported optional character of numeral classifiers in Classical and Colonial Nahuatl. On the basis of the qualitative assessment of the co-occurrence of numerals with classifiers or zero in constructions which serve the purpose of quantifying or ordinally ranking NPs, the optionality hypothesis is assessed. The question is raised whether or not the presence and absence of classifiers is arbitrary or triggered by formal and/or functional factors. To this end, empirical evidence of the phenomena under review has been gathered from a selection of texts of the colonial era. Quantitative findings based on theCodex Florentinusare presented too. The discussion of these data uncovers that the classifier system of Classical and Colonial Nahuatl does not lend itself to a straightforward characterization so that further investigations are called for.
Rheo-chemical characterization of exopolysaccharides produced by plant growth promoting rhizobacteria
Authors: Shahzad Haroon , Iqbal Muhammad , Khan Qudrat Ullah
Published: August 2018

Background

Modern agriculture recognizes soil biota as major contributors for availabilities of nitrogen and phosphorus to plants. Centralizing focus on exopolymer production of these living entities is need of time to emphasize their impact on soil structural restoration and heavy metal intoxication.

Material and methods

Mung bean rhizosphere collected from 25 locations was serially diluted and poured onto MY agar plates that were incubated for 120 h at 25°C to isolate bacteria having watery mucoidal appearance. Liquid broths of secluded cultures were then tested for optical scattering and were treated with ethanol to precipitate Exopolysaccharides (EPS) for their physicochemical characterization.

Results

Anion-exchange and high-performance size exclusion chromatographic analysis indicated two main monosaccharides, Mannose (52%) and Glucose (29%) fractions of EPS. EPS have substantial (0.2%) protein contents, capacity related to emulsify several hydrophobic substances. 0.5% EPS solution had low viscosity with pseudoplastic behaviour, least suspended particles producing less turbid solutions.

Conclusion

Six strains (M2, M3, M11, M16, M19, and M22) secreted noticeably greater amounts of exopolymers than other strains. Organic nature and pseudoplasticity of these exopolymers helps in soil structural restoration, sulfates and phosphates helps in heavy metals detoxication.
The Stele of Kubaba by Kamani and the Kings of Karkemish in the 9th Century BC
Authors: Marchetti Nicolò , Peker Hasan
Published: August 2018

The top part of the famous basalt stele of Kubaba from Karkemish, made by Kamani around 790 BC, was discovered in 2015. This allows for a new discussion of the development of the iconography of the goddess. The stele completes the genealogy of the Karkemish rulers from the 9th century BC and includes the first mention of Sangara in hieroglyphic writing. Thanks to a study of archival materials in the British Museum and the rediscovery of additional stele fragments in the 1911-1920 dig house at the site, the later history of the monument now becomes better known.
Types of Gold, Types of Silver: The Composition of Precious Metal Artifacts Found in the Royal Tombs of Ur, Mesopotamia
Authors: Hauptmann Andreas , Klein Sabine , Paoletti Paola , Zettler Richard L. , Jansen Moritz
Published: August 2018

The many gold and silver artifacts from the Early Dynastic Royal Tombs of Ur in Mesopotamia are among the greatest metal finds of Ancient Mesopotamia in the third millennium BC. Within the framework of a research project, 32 of these artifacts were analyzed for their composition using a portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer and a scanning electron microscope. Predominantly gold-silver alloys rather than pure gold were identified, containing up to 50 wt.% of silver and often with additional copper content well above 10 wt.%. This spectrum of composition ranges from alloys that could be of natural origin to alloys that were intentionally produced. Some gold artifacts were deliberately blended to gold-silver-copper alloys for color gradation. In addition, Sumerian written sources from the end of the third millennium BC can be compared to the results of the analyses of this study and offer more information on the processing of these metals at that time. In the present study, it is shown that gold originating from placer deposits was brought to Ur. Direct association of gold artifacts with lapis lazuli in many precious objects from the Royal Tombs and the particular composition of inclusions of platinum group minerals in the worked gold both point to a possible provenance in northern Afghanistan. One significant result was the confirmation of the use of depletion gilding for the removal of copper from surfaces; the technique of refining silver-bearing gold, known as parting, is not thought to have been known at this time.

A previous version of this paper has been presented as a talk at the 62e Rencontre Assyriologique Internationale of Philadelphia 11th–15th July 2016 by A. Hauptmann, S. Klein and R. Zettler under the title: “A. Hauptmann, S. Klein, and R. Zettler, Sorts of Gold, Sorts of Silver from the Royal Tombs of Ur, Mesopotamia”.

“For the late Hans-Gert Bachmann, the pioneer of ancient gold metallurgy. (Andreas Hauptmann)”
1H-[1,2,4]Triazolo[4,3-a]pyridin-4-ium and 3H-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]quinolin-10-ium derivatives as new intercalating agents for DNA
Authors: Hebenbrock Marian , Müller Jens
Published: August 2018

Two new cationic DNA intercalators, 3-phenyl-1-(6-phenylpyridin-2-yl)-1H-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]pyridin-4-ium (1a)+and 1-phenyl-3-(6-phenylpyridin-2-yl)-3H-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]quinolin-10-ium (1b)+, were synthesized from 2-chloropyridine and 2-chloroquinoline, respectively, in a four-step procedure. Generation of the hydrazine, followed by condensation with an aldehyde to give a hydrazone and subsequent Buchwald-Hartwig amination gave a mixture ofE- andZ-configuredN,N-functionalized hydrazones. Finally, oxidative cyclisation gave rise to the formation of the cationic DNA intercalators, whose molecular structures were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of the hexafluorophosphate and tribromide salt of (1a)+and (1b)+, respectively. The intercalative binding of (1a)PF6and (1b)PF6to ctDNA was confirmed by means of UV, CD and luminescence spectroscopy, determination of the DNA melting temperature and by rheology measurements.
Continuous Moderate-Intensity but Not High-Intensity Interval Training Improves Immune Function Biomarkers in Healthy Young Men
Authors: Khammassi Marwa , Ouerghi Nejmeddine , Said Mohamed , Feki Moncef , Khammassi Yosra , Pereira Bruno , Thivel David , Bouassida Anissa
Published: August 2018

Khammassi, M, Ouerghi, N, Said, M, Feki, M, Khammassi, Y, Pereira, B, Thivel, D, and Bouassida, A. Continuous moderate-intensity but not high-intensity interval training improves immune function biomarkers in healthy young men. J Strength Cond Res 34(1): 249–256, 2020—Effects of endurance running methods on hematological profile are still poorly known. This study aimed to compare the effects of 2 training regimes; high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MCT) performed at the same external load on hematological biomarkers in active young men. Sixteen men aged 18–20 years were randomly assigned to HIIT or MCT group. Aerobic capacity and hematological biomarkers were assessed before and after 9 weeks of interventions. At baseline, aerobic and hematological parameters were similar for the 2 groups. After intervention, no significant change was observed in maximal aerobic velocity and estimated Vo
2max in both groups. Leukocyte (p < 0.01), lymphocyte (p < 0.05), neutrophil (p < 0.05), and monocyte (p < 0.01) count showed significant improvements in response to the MCT compared with the HIIT intervention. The MCT intervention favored an increase in the number of immune cells, whereas the opposite occurred as a result of the HIIT intervention. These findings suggest that MCT interventions might be superior to HIIT regimes in improving immune function in active young men.
Penerapan Pendekatan Pembelajaran Time Token untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Matematik Siswa di Madrasah Aliyah
Authors: Suhendra Agus , Sobarningsih Nunung , Susilawati Wati
Published: August 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui proses belajar matematika siswa, kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematik siswa pada setiap siklus, kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematik siswa setelah mengikuti seluruh siklus, dan sikap siswa kelas X.1 MAN Tanggeung mengikuti seluruh siklus melalui pendekatan pembelajaran Time Token pada pokok bahasan bentuk akar. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian tindakan kelas (Classroom Action Research) dengan langkah-langkah yang dilakukan dalam penelitian ini berbentuk siklus yaitu: Perencanaan (Planning); Tindakan (Acting); Pengamatan (Observing); Refleksi (Reflecting). Sampel yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini berjumlah 38 orang yang terdiri dari 13 orang laki-laki dan 25 orang perempuan. Instrumen yang digunakan untuk mengumpulkan data dalam penelitian ini terdiri dari lembar observasi aktivitas untuk mengetahui aktivitas siswa dan guru selama proses pembelajaran berlangsung, tes formatif dan post test yang berisi soal-soal matematika tentang bentuk akar, dan untuk melihat sikap siswa terhadap pembelajaran matematika dengan pendekatan pembelajaran Time Token, skala sikap siswa yang dipakai adalah model skala likert dengan teknik penskoran secara aposteriori. Hasil penelitian dapat disimpulkan bahwa oenerapan pembelajaran Time Token efektif untuk meningkatkan kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematik siswa. Disarankan Untuk guru dapat lebih kreatif dan inovatif dalam melatih dan mengembangkan keterampilan sosial siswa agar siswa tidak mendominasi pembicaraan atau diam sama sekali
Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Cooperative Integrated Reading And Composition (CIRC) dalam Upaya Meningkatkan Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Matematika Siswa
Authors: Qodariah Eva Nurul , Rahayu Yayu Nurhayati , Karso Karso , Syaf Agus Hikmat
Published: August 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana aktivitas guru dan siswa, bagaimana kemampuan pemecahan masalah siswa, dan bagaimana sikap siswa kelas VIIA MTs Al-Mufassir dengan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition (CIRC) pada pembelajaran matematika pokok bahasan segi empat. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK) dengan langkah-langkah yang dilakukan berupa kegiatan siklus yaitu plan (perencanaan), act (tindakan), observe (pengamatan), dan reflect (refleksi). Sample dalam penelitian ini berjumlah 32 siswa yang memiliki kemampuan heterogen. Instrumen yang digunakan untuk mengumpulkan data dalam penelitian ini adalah instrument observasi untuk mengetahui aktivitas guru dan siswa, instrumen skala sikap untuk mengetahui sikap siswa dan tes untuk mengukur kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematika. Hasil penelitian dapat disimpulkan bahwa penerapan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe CIRC sangat efektif untuk meningkatkan aspek kemampuan pemecahan masalah pada pokok bahasan segiempat. Disarankan dapat dimanfaatkan sebagai masukan atau bahan pertimbangan bagi guru khususnya pada mata pelajaran matematika bahwa pembelajaran kooperatif tipe CIRC perlu dikembangkan dan diterapkan karena pembelajaran tersebut dapat meningkatkan aspek kemampuan pemecahan masalah
Pendekatan Pembelajaran Generatif Sebagai Upaya Meningkatkan Pemecahan Masalah Matematika Siswa pada Pokok Bahasan Phytagoras kelas VII di MTs Asy-Syarifiyyah Bandung
Authors: Rachman Arifin , Sobarningsih Nunung , Juariah Juariah , Syaf Agus Hikmat
Published: August 2018

Matematika merupakan salah satu mata pelajaran yang dianggap sukar oleh peserta didik dan banyak factor yang mempengaruhi pandangan peserta didik terhadap mata pelajaran tersebut, salah satu hal yang menjadi factor nya ialah metode pendekatan pembelajaran. Umumnya para guru masih menggunakan metode umum pada saat pengajaran yaitu dengan menjelaskan lalu diikuti oleh latihan soal-soal. Suatu soal merupakan masalah bagi siswa apabila soal tersebut tidak dikenalnya atau belum memiliki prosedur atau algoritma tertentu untuk menyelesaikannya, tetapi siswa tersebut memiliki pengetahuan dan kemampuan untuk menyelesaikannya. Dalam hal ini peneliti akan memaparkan hasil uji coba Metode Pembelajaran Generative terhadap siswa sebagai upaya meningkatkan pemecahan masalah matematika pada pokok bahasan Phytagoras
Penerapan Media Gambar Pembelajaran Matematika Sebagai Upaya Meningkatkan Kemampuan Pemahaman Matematika Siswa Pada Materi Pokok Pecahan
Authors: Hidayat Asep Alimudin , Syaf Agus Hikmat , Juariah Juariah
Published: August 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bertujuan untuk memperoleh gambaran tentang proses pembelajaran matematika yang menggunakan media gambar dalam pembelajaran di kelas VI MIN Cilengkrang Sumedang. Kemampuan pemahaman matematika siswa kelas  VI MIN Cilengkrang Sumedang setelah pembelajaran yang menggunakan media gambar dalam pembelajaran matematika pada tiap siklus, kemampuan pemahaman matematika siswa kelas VI MIN Cilengkrang Sumedang setelah pembelajaran yang menggunakan media gambar dalam pembelajaran pada seluruh siklus, sikap siswa kelas VI MIN Cilengkrang Sumedang selama pembelajaran matematika yang menggunakan media gambar dalam pembelajaran matematika. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di MIN Cilengkrang Sumedang dengan  subjek penelitian adalah siswa kelas VI  yang berjumlah 15 orang. Dari hasil penelitian dapat disimpulkan bahwa sikap siswa terhadap pembelajaran matematika melalui penerapan media gambar dalam pembelajaran cukup baik. Disarankan untuk mencoba menerapkan media pembelajaran supaya lebih banyak alternatif pembelajaran demi meningkatkan kemampuan dalam penguasaan materi pecahan, kualitas proses pembelajaran dan hasil belajar.
Pembelajaran Matematika dengan Model Kooperatif Tipe Jigsaw untuk Meningkatkan Komunikasi Matematika Siswa pada Pokok Bahasan Perbandingan
Authors: Apandi Dadang , Kariadinata Rahayu , Susilawati Wati
Published: August 2018

Tujuan penelitian ini penulis mencoba menerapkan pembelajaran dengan model kooperatif tipe jigsaw dengan harapan dapat mengembangkan kemampuan komunikasi matematika siswa, meningkatkan minat siswa terhadap matematika, meningkatkan aktivitas siswa di kelas, dan meningkatkan kemampuan guru dalam mengelola kegiatan belajar mengajar, sehingga tercipta lingkungan belajar yang aktif dan kondusif. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK) terhadap siswa kelas VII.F MTsN Kota Bandung, dengan jumlah siswa sebanyak 39 siswa. Adapun instrumen yang digunakan adalah Lembar Aktifitas Siswa (soal-soal yang didiskusikan dikelompok ahli), tes setiap akhir siklus, tes akhir, lembar observasi dan sekala sikap. Hasil analisis data penelitian menunjukkan bahwa aktivitas siswa dalam pembelajaran matematika dengan metode kooperatif tipe jigsaw mengalami peningkatan. Begitu pula dengan tingkat kemampuan Komunikasi Matematikanya yang digambarkan dengan hasil penilaian dengan nilai memuaskan.