bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A low-cost method of fabricating perovskite lasers
Authors: Kim Meeri
Published: October 2019

A new article reports on a novel perovskite film transfer process that uses isostatic hot pressing to transfer a perovskite film to a plastic substrate.
Comparative effects of grazing, herbicide or forage conservation on barley grass content in Trifolium subterraneum L. clover-based pasture
Authors: Piltz John W. , Flinn Simon J. , Weston Leslie A.
Published: October 2019

Barley grass (Hordeum spp.) is a relatively short lived annual that provides high quality grazing early in the season, but its seed heads cause contamination of wool and carcasses, and may irritate the mouth, eyes and nose of sheep. Treatments were imposed on established subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum L.) annual pasture in the same plots for three consecutive years (2015 to 2017) to evaluate changes in barley grass content. Treatments included: grazing alone (G), herbicide followed by grazing (HG), or a forage conservation harvest in early October, late October or early November consistent with an early silage harvest (ES), late silage harvest (LS) or hay cut (H). Grazing plus herbicide markedly reduced (P < 0.05) barley grass numbers compared with all other treatments, but increased (P < 0.05) the growth of annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidum L.). ES reduced (P < 0.05) barley grass and increased (P < 0.05) subterranean clover compared with H, but broadleaf weed content benefitted by LS in contrast to either ES or H. Although herbicide application was the most effective method for barley grass control, forage harvest timing could be used to beneficially manipulate pasture composition.
Ameliorating effects of exogenous calcium on the photosynthetic physiology of honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) under salt stress
Authors: Huang Luyao , Li Zhuangzhuang , Pan Shaobin , Liu Qian , Pu Gaobin , Zhang Yongqing , Li Jia
Published: October 2019

Calcium (Ca2+) plays pivotal roles in modulating plant growth, development and stress responses. This work was conducted to study the effects of 20 mM calcium on the biomass, malondialdehyde content, chlorophyll content, ion ratio, chlorophyll a fluorescence and gas-exchange parameters, gene expression of annual honeysuckle under 50, 100 and 200 mM NaCl. At the end of treatment, Na+ concentration was increased with the mounting salinity, but a higher ratio of K+/Na2+, Ca2+/Na+, Mg2+/Na+ were obtained after calcium addition. Salinity exerted an adverse effect on the dry weights and chlorophyll content, whereas CaCl2 played a positive role. Consistent with biomass reduction, the photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance declined in leaves of honeysuckle exposed to elevated salinity. However, the extent of reduction was much less under CaCl2 combination treatments than one caused by NaCl treatments. Exogenous calcium also protects the photochemical activity of PSII by protecting reaction centre from inactivation and maintaining electron transport from QA– to QB–. Further, exogenous calcium promoted the overexpression of LHCB coding gene Cab and Rubisco large subunit coding gene rbcL under short-term stress. In conclusion, exogenous calcium was effective in improving the salt tolerance of honeysuckle in the photosynthetic base, thereby improving the growth of plants.
Piloting a culturally appropriate, localised diabetes prevention program for young Aboriginal people in a remote town
Authors: Seear Kimberley H. , Atkinson David N. , Lelievre Matthew P. , Henderson-Yates Lynette M. , Marley Julia V.
Published: October 2019

Lifestyle changes are central to preventing type 2 diabetes. Embarking upon and sustaining change is challenging, and translation of prevention approaches into a wider range of real-world settings is needed. In this study, a locally adapted community-led diabetes prevention program with local young Aboriginal facilitators was created and trialled through the Derby Aboriginal Health Service (DAHS). The 8-week program highlighted causes and consequences of diabetes, incorporated physical activity and healthy eating topics with a focus on practical activities, and included stress management to support healthy lifestyles. Ten Aboriginal women and men aged 18–38 years participated in the pilot program. The program was found to be acceptable and appropriate, and other community members and organisations expressed interest in future participation. Participants reported that they gained important new knowledge and made changes in behaviours including shopping choices, portioning and soft drink consumption. Limitations included participant recruitment and attendance difficulties, which were attributed to program timing and competing demands. While this program was designed to be sustainable, and there were indications of feasibility, resource constraints impeded its integration into routine primary health care. Prevention of diabetes is a high priority for DAHS, and this program, with appropriate resources, provides a basis for ongoing practical prevention strategies.
Rare earth elements (REE) as feed additives in animal nutrition.
Authors: Flachowsky G. , Bampidis V. , Zhao GuangYong Zhao GuangYong , Grün M. , Meyer U.
Published: October 2019

After providing a brief historical survey of the use of rare earth elements (REE) as feed additives, the authors of this review attempt to analyse the implications of REE in animal nutrition; they demonstrate the results of a variety of efficacy studies in food producing animals and consider REE-residues in organs and tissues of such animals. The results of those studies are as inconsistent as their approaches and as REE or compounds of various REE applied in the presented investigations. Current research data do not yet reveal if REE are essential to animal metabolism. Furthermore, we don't know so far the exact functions of individual elements and mixtures of REE concerning animal metabolism and yield. As results are inconsistent, no general economic implications can be predicted either. It is proposed that future research should focus on individual REE before investigating the effects of defined REE-mixtures. Apart from determining possible mechanisms and potential effects of REE in more detail, further studies might explore long-term effects and should also be conducted with regard to food safety and environmental aspects.
Towards the Same Line of Liquid–Liquid Phase Transition of Dense Hydrogen from Various Theoretical Predictions*
Authors: Lu Binbin , Kang Dongdong , Wang Dan , Gao Tianyu , Dai Jiayu
Published: October 2019

For a long time, there have been huge discrepancies between different models and experiments concerning the liquid–liquid phase transition (LLPT) in dense hydrogen. We present the results of extensive calculations of the LLPT in dense hydrogen using the most expensive first-principle path-integral molecular dynamics simulations available. The nonlocal density functional rVV10 and the hybrid functional PBE0 are used to improve the description of the electronic structure of hydrogen. Of all the density functional theory calculations available, we report the most consistent results through quantum Monte Carlo simulations and coupled electron-ion Monte Carlo simulations of the LLPT in dense hydrogen. The critical point of the first-order LLPT is estimated to be above 2000K according to the equation of state. Moreover, the metallization pressure obtained from the jump of dc electrical conductivity almost coincides with the plateau of equation of state.
Analysis of POME Discharge Quality from Different Mill in Perak, Malaysia: A case study
Authors: Sapie S , Jumali S S , Mustaffha S , Pebrian D E
Published: October 2019

Palm oil mill effluent (POME) is a major concern of oil palm mill because it contributes to numerous pollution such as soil, water and air pollution. In order to maintain a clean environment for a sustainable agricultural system in oil palm plantation, the quality of POME and its level must be monitored to ensure that the requirement set by the country is met. Hence, this paper is written based on the data of POME final discharge into waterways taken from Malaysian Department of Environment in four regions of Perak, Malaysia. The data is compared between regions and relatively different levels of discharge have been produced. Some of the mills produce final POME wastewater above the limit that has been set. The remaining mills discharge the wastewater below the maximum allowed level. This is an indicator that each mill has its own Standard of Procedures in treating POME before being discharged into waterways. It is suggested that the mills take a proactive approach to treat POME beyond the ponding system. POME can be physically processed to produce biofertilizer and biocompost for organic farming. The mills apply phytoremediation techniques in treating POME to reduce the unwanted variables that can affect the sustainability of our environment.
Birding Backyard: Birdwatching in Andalas University
Authors: Janra M N
Published: October 2019

Andalas University campus comples in Limau Manis area is renowned for its beautiful scenery and close-to-nature environment due to its attachment to the forest of Bukit Barisan mountainous chain in Sumatera. Here in this paper, we descriptively discuss the ornithological aspects of the Andalas University campus complex in its relation for being a birdwatching destination. It combined the literature study on previous ornithological publications made from this area with recent observation exhaustively conducted in some strategic birding sites in the campus complex. In overall, we recorded 160 bird species from surrounding of Andalas University with possibility for more increasing new species sighted in given time; they belong to 44 families and 14 orders. Included in species inventory 1 species with Appendix I and 15 species Appendix II of CITES; 31 species protected by Indonesian Law; 1 species with Critically Endangered status, 2 species with Vulnerable status, 20 species with Near Threatened status of IUCN Red List; 16 migrant species from North and 6 migrant species from south hemisphere. There are five major bird habitats in this area; ponds, rivers or tributaries, green spaces, secondary and primary forests. We also identified direct and indirect threats for bird diversity in this area, such as illegal logging, illegal hunting and poaching, introduced predators, as well as animal abusing. Further attention needs to be paid for protecting bird species and their habitats in Andalas University campus complex through the enforcement of campus conservation policy.
Identification of chemical structure of anthocyanin and other active substances of red color melinjo peels by FTIR and LC-MC analysis
Authors: Tarmizi E , Putri A Z E , Nusandari M A , Husnil Y A , Saragih R , Lalasari L H
Published: October 2019

Research on red color melinjo peels containing anthocyanin active substance has been studied since 2011, starting from anthocyanin extraction stage (maceration) by using both polar and non-polar solvents, a variation of citric acid addition and stability of anthocyanin extract storage and application of anthocyanin for food and beverage. However, research on the identification of anthocyanin chemical structures and other active substances of red color melinjo peels is also necessary. The purpose of this study was to identify the structure of anthocyanin and other active substances from red color melinjo peels with FTIR and LC-MS analysis. The results obtained: from FTIR analysis shown wavelength, among others: 3425 cm-1, 1725 cm-1, 1632 cm-1 and 1219 cm-1, it shows that inside the red color melinjo peels contained OH function group, C=O, C=C, and CO. From the LC-MS analysis shown at a minute of 1.62 observed BM = 302.236, which is the molecular weight of the Quercetin compound. The mass spectrum with the base peak height of m/z = 165, at min 3.83 has 100% abundance, whereas the 50% abundance at peak M+m/z = 242 has BM = 271 with the anthocyanin molecule of red color melinjo peels C15O5H11. The anthocyanin type of red color melinjo peels is a cyanine compound.
Influence of Cd, Mn, and Co addition on the structural and optical properties of TiO2 crystal
Authors: Wahyuningsih S , Purnawan C , Aisyah D N
Published: October 2019

Synthesis of TiO2-M (M = Cd, Mn, Co) has been done by the sol gel method. Solution of titanium (IV) isopropoxide was hydrolyzed using a solution of glacial acetic acid at a temperature range of 10-15 °C to obtain a sol, subsequently heated to form a white gel. Ion solution Cd (II), Mn (II) and Co (II) each added to the gel TiO2 with Ti:M mole ratio (M= Cd, Mn, Co) = 3:1 (mol/mol). After calcination process at a temperature of 400 °C, we have obtained TiO2 and TiO2-M (Cd, Mn, Co). Characterization of the samples with XRD showed TiO2-M (M = Cd, Mn, Co) produces crystalline of anatase TiO2 phase. SEM-EDX results showed differences in the amount of metal contained within TiO2-M (M= Cd, Mn, Co) that is equal to 8.62% (w/w) Cd; 3.26% (w/w) Mn; 0.721% (w/w) Co. The addition of transition metals ion as impurities as Cd (II), Mn (II), or Co (II) have inhibited the growth of TiO2 crystals. The insertion of metal ions in the TiO2 were also affected the optical properties shown by the energy band gap (Eg) shift in order of Eg TiO2 (3.35 eV)>TiO2-Cd (3.10 eV)>TiO2-Co (3.00 eV)>TiO2-Mn (2.5 eV). The eletronic structures of TiO2 doped 3d transition metals showed that an electron occupied level energy occurs. Electron from dopand are somewhat delocalized, thus significantly contributing to the formaton of the valece band with O p and Ti 3d electrons. Based on a comparation with the absorption data, we show that t2g state of the dopand plays a significant role in the photoresponse of TiO2 under visible irradiaton.
Modelling electric field influence on density of states (dos) and localization length of poly(da)-poly(dt) dna
Authors: Rahmani F , Yudiarsah E
Published: October 2019

DNA based microelectronics technology have been developed in the last couple of years, but researchers found that its stability can be volatile to the change in its environment. In this research, electron transport in DNA poly(dA)-(dT) have been analysed by observing its density of states (DOS) and localization length. Retarded green function is used to calculate DOS, whereas transfer-matrix method is employed in calculating localization length in order to determine the electronic structure of the DNA. Along the z-axis of DNA electric field is applied, it will alter hopping constant between sites in DNA. Tight binding model is incorporated with Miller-Abraham expression to yield electric field and also temperature influence in DOS. Effect of medium is considered within the calculation. The results tell us that as the electric field increases, the value of DOS decreases, so that the localization length. The increment of temperature also shows similar trend.
Size and aspect ratio dependency of sensitivity of ellipsoidal metal nanoparticle based liquid sensor
Authors: Muldarisnur M , Oktorina E , Fridayanti N , Zeni E , Elvaswer E , Syukri S
Published: October 2019

Detection of bio chemical species in a liquid is very important for research and technical purposes. In the last decade, metallic nanoparticles have been shown to be potential for such measurement. Resonance wavelength (or frequency) of free electron oscillation on metallic nanoparticle surface is very sensitive to tiny changes of its surrounding environment. Change in surrounding medium shifts the resonance wavelength with a slope determined mainly by the size and geometry of nanoparticle. We numerically optimized size and aspect ratio of silver and gold nanoparticles to obtain the highest sensing sensitivity. Here, sensitivity is defined as the slope of resonance wavelength on refractive index of liquid. We found that size, aspect ratio, and material of metal affect sensing sensitivity of metal nanoparticle based sensor significantly.
Ab Initio DFT Study of Band Gap of Armchair and Zigzag Graphenes
Authors: Hauwali N U J , Syuhada I , Ligasetiawan V E , Winata T
Published: October 2019

Graphene sheet is a single-atom thick material and attracts great interest due to its extraordinary physical properties, but it has zero bandgap. At the boundary of graphene sheet, two types of stable edges were the zigzag edge and armchair edge. The electronic states of graphene largely depend on the edge structures. In this research, we used Quantum ESPRESSO package to calculate the band gap of armchair and zigzag graphene due to the increase of their number of cells. The results show that the graphene band gaps are influenced by the number of cells in the armchair and zigzag configuration.
Permeability of Piroxicam with Sodium Lauryl Sulfate as Surfactant
Authors: Prihapsara F , Saputra W A , Artanti A N , Ermawati D E , Rohmani S , Yugatama A
Published: October 2019

Piroxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which have characteristic insoluble in water and poorly fluidity. The profile absorption from piroxicam was depend on its dissolution rate in the gastrointestinal tract (GI). To improve the solubility in the water, it can used Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) as a surfactant which have mechanism by forming a micelle. The aim of this study was to measure the influence gradiet concentration of SLS with Piroxicam absorption that can observe by inverted intestinal sac method. The concentration of piroxicam solution that added by SLS are 1, 2, and 3% respectively. The preparation method using Crane and Wilson tube containing mucosal fluid. After preparation, it was taken at 37°C in waterbath and added with serosal solution to intestinal sac by turned upside down and tied to a cannula. The sample was placed in the tube containing mucosal fluid and constantly flowing by oxygen gas. To measure the absorsion of piroxicam that used serosal solution which every 15 minutes was taken on tube. After this, it was diluted using Ba(OH)2 and ZnSO4 then continuous with separating process. The absorbant of supernatant was measured using Spectrophotometer UV-Vis. Data analyse was calculated by one-way ANOVA. According to Pm, the values 0.25x10-3 cm/minute (0% SLS), 0.39x10-3 cm/minute (1% SLS), 1.45x10-3 cm/minute (2% SLS) and 1.26x10-3 cm/minute (3% SLS) respectively. In conclusion, 2 % SLS significantly give the highest absorption of piroxicam by altering the membrane permeability.
Optimization SNEDDS (Self-Nano Emulsifying Drug Delivery System) of ZnO that dispersed into Hydrogel Matrix as UV-Protective
Authors: Wulandari W , Ermawati D E , Yugatama A
Published: October 2019

World Health Organization in 2015, estimated the case of non-melanoma cancer increasing due to the depletion of the ozone layer. The case of skin cancer in Indonesia reaches 6-8%, so the skin needs effective protection. ZnO is a sunscreen with SPF [Sun Protecting Factor] value of 50 and sun exposure reduction to the skin, especially UV A [320-400 nm] and UV B [290-320 nm]. ZnO is difficult to dissolve in water and hard to dispersed in the hydrogel matrix, so that it is formulated a nanoemulsion preparation into SNEDDS. SNEDDS consists of olive oil, tween 80 [surfactant], and propylene glycol [cosurfactant]. Optimization of the SNEDDS ZnO with the D-Optimal method was using Design Expert Software producing 16 formulas that tested for physical stability response including transmittance values [%] and pH values. The formula that has the highest response value with the desirability value approaching one was the optimum formula, then analyzed done with PSA. The optimum SNEDDS ZnO was dispersed in the hydrogel matrix of carbopol, thentest included pH, viscosity, dispersion and SPF value. The optimization shows that the optimum composition of olive oil : tween 80 : propylene glycol of 1:9:1. The result of t-test of SNEDDS ZnO optimum formula were not significantly different (p-value> 0, 05) with Design Expert prediction. Optimum formula can load 2 mg ZnO with transmitance value is 92%, SPF value 26, PSA 150 nm, and polydispers size of droplets.
Evaluation of antibacterial activity of sesquiterpene Ar- Turmerone from Curcuma soloensis Val. rhizomes
Authors: Marliyana S D , Wibowo F R , Wartono M W , Munasah G
Published: October 2019

Curcuma soloensis Val. is a family plant Zingiberaceae and is known as “temu glenyeh”. This plant has potential as a medicinal plant but has not been widely reported about its bioactivities. One of them was antibacterial activity. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of ar-turmerone, a sesquiterpenoid which was successfully isolated from Curcuma soloensis Val. rizhomes. Antibacterial test was carried out by using disc diffusion method and evaluated against four bacteria namely Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Klebsiella pneumonia ATCC 13883, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853. The result showed that ar-turmerone was not active against all of these bacteria.
Synthesis of silica from rice husk as cement substitution for high strength concrete
Authors: Dhaneswara D , Fatriansyah J F , Kusumawardhani D P , Khairunnisa S A
Published: October 2019

This research was conducted to determine the effect of adding the rice husk ash (RHA) from mechano-chemical process as cement replacement for concrete. Mechano-chemical process was carried out using planetary ball mill with the rational speed at 22 rpm for 15 minutes and adding the 1M Hydrochloric Acid. This process aims to reduce the particle size of RHA. RHA will be used as cement replacement material with the composition that will be displayed in this study. concrete was made on 10 x 10 cm cube mold and a compressive strength test was carried out after 28 days curing. Beside RHA, in this study silica fused is used as cement replacement material. Concrete with the addition of RHA from mechano-chemical process has higher compressive strength than concrete with addition of silica fused.
Effects of Martempering Heat Treatment on Corrosion Rate in 1.5Ni Laterite Steel
Authors: Herbirowo S , Aryanto D , Indharto A L , Saefuloh I , Adjiantoro B
Published: October 2019

Laterite steel is commonly used for applications in the industrial worldwide. The behavior of this characteristics of laterite steel can be repaired in various ways, one of them by special heat treatment. This research aims to determine the value of corrosion rates, hardness, and transformation in microstructure that occur in laterite steel contain 1.564% Ni after heat treatment. Heat treatment carried out is austenizing at 950 ºC and then quenching water; oil and normalizing in the air. And also tempering temperature variations 100°C, 200°C, and 300°C. Tests carried out were CMS 100 corrosion test which is 3.5% NaCl solution media, hardness testing with Vickers scale, and metallographic testing using an optical microscope. The results obtained showed that a microstructure transformation in 1.564% Ni laterite steel after HT consisted of martensite, ferrite, pearlite, residual austenite, and bainite. The lowest value of corrosion rate obtained in the sample normalizing 300°C tempering air and the highest in raw material. Whereas the highest hardness value was obtained 459.7 HV in the non-tempered water quenching sample.
Magnesium removal from brine water with low lithium grade using limestone, rembang, indonesia
Authors: Lalasari L H , Fatahillah F R , Rahmat D R G , Tarmizi E , Rhamdani A R , Sulistiyono E , Andriyah L , Arini T , Natasha N C , Firdiyono F
Published: October 2019

Experiments have been carried out to remove magnesium ions from brine water using limestone, Rembang, Indonesia. The aim of the study was to produce brine water concentrates that were rich in lithium and did not contain magnesium elements. Brine water used has the following chemical composition: 74.67 ppm Li; 877.891 ppm Na; 1549.81 ppm K; 147.23 ppm Mg; 38.49 ppm Ca and others. The initial stages were 200 g of natural lime calcined at 900 °C for 3 hours using a furnace as a precipitation agent. It is then added to 1000 ml of brine water with a variation of 0.336 g, 1 g, 10 g, 20 g, 30 g, 40 g, 50 g by stirring for 3 hours at atmospheric pressure. The results showed that the magnesium removal from brine water began to be seen in the addition of roasted limestone of 1 g with the dominant phase as Mg0.03Ca0.97CO3 in the precipitated residue. On the addition of 10 g and 20 g of roasted limestone into brine water, the percentage of magnesium removal was almost maximum of 98.8% and 99.8% with the precipitated residues as Mg(OH)2 phases. This experiment was successful to remove magnesium from brine water so that the lithium concentration of brine water increased to 104.32 ppm Li and 105.86 ppm Li with the addition of roasted limestone of 10 g and 20 g, respectively. These results indicate that the use of roasted limestone to eliminate magnesium from brine water with low lithium grade is recommended.
Alginate-chitosan hydrogel as controlled release of NPK macronutrient
Authors: Suratman A , Oktaviani A D , Aprilita N H , Wibowo A H
Published: October 2019

Alginate-chitosan hydrogel as controlled release of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (NPK) macronutrient has been studied. Variations of alginate and chitosan mass, N; P and K concentration, pH solution, swelling ratio and mass ratio of alginate and chitosan were optimized. Hydrogel was prepared by mixing alginate, chitosan and CaCl2 as a cross linker in the water media. Hydrogel product was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). N; P; and K release were measured by UV-Vis spectrophotometer and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The result showed that addition of chitosan in the hydrogel caused a decrease of swelling ratio hydrogel and a decrease of N; P and K release. The release of N; P and K was affected by N; P and K concentration and pH solution. The higher N; P and K concentrations and lower pH solution caused an increase of release rate of N; P and K. The mechanism of N; P and K release from the alginate-chitosan hydrogel followed the Korsmeyer-Peppas model. The ratio of alginate and chitosan in the hydrogel also affected to the the release rate of N; P and K.
The Role of Magnesium(II) Salt Precursor in Controlling the Structure of Coordination Polymers based on Magnesium(II) and benzene 1, 3, 5-tricarboxylic acid
Authors: Lestari W W , Tedra R A , Novita T H , Sakinah
Published: October 2019

Synthesis of coordination polymers based on magnesium(II) and benzene 1, 3, 5-tricarboxylic acid (H3BTC) with two different types of magnesium(II) salts precursors, namely MgCl2·6H2O and Mg(OAc)2·4H2O in ethanol under solvothermal condition was successfully carried out. The synthesized materials were characterized by several methods such as X-Ray Diffraction and FTIR spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The synthesis results showed that the crystallization of the materials was highly influenced by the type of metal ion precursor Mg(II), in this case the anion. XRD analysis revealed that the use of MgCl2·6H2O salt tend to produce a coordination polymer [Mg3(BTC)2 (H2O)12] which called also as National Institute of Chemistry Slovenia-4 (NICS-4, CCDC 768993) with a 1-dimensional structure, while the use of Mg(OAc)2·4H2O salt produced 3-dimensional coordination polymer [Mg3(BTC)2] or well known as National Institute of Chemistry Slovenia-6 (NICS-6, CCDC 768995). NICS-4 and NICS-6 have thermal stability up to 530 ºC and 542 ºC based on the thermogravimetric analysis. A significant shift from absorption peak at 1721 to 1622 dan 1628 cm−1 correspond to the deprotonation of trimesic acid and coordinated to the Mg2+ cation. The coordination of Mg2+ with H2O molecules in NICS-4 is indicated by the presence of broad absorption peak at 3472 cm−1 which was not found in NICS-6. After exposed to the air, the structural dimension of NICS-6 could change due to the coordination with water molecules. SEM image exhibited that NICS-4 has flat-needle-like morphology with an average particle size of 12.42 ± 0.78μm, while NICS-6 has a hollow spherical morphology with an average particle size of 63.21 ± 0.12 μm.
Performance Comparison of Modified AODV-ETX with AODV and AODV-ETX Routing Protocol in an MANET
Authors: Purnomo A , Widyawan  , Najib W , Hartono R , Hartatik
Published: October 2019

Expected Transmission Count (ETX) is one of the many metrics developed in the ad hoc routing protocol. Most research, studied on modified AODV-ETX by varying the value of MY ROUTE TIMEOUT (MRT) and ACTIVE ROUTE TIMEOUT (ART) values in the RREQ and RREP packet headers. Those studies resulted the optimum value of MRT and ART was 80 seconds. These results has not shown optimal performance of AODV and AODV-ETX. This paper discusses performance comparison of modified AODV-ETX with AODV and AODV-ETX on MANET. The result is that the throughput on the modified AODV-ETX has increases 5.72 %, PDR increases 5.80 %, 4.31 % overhead reduction, 10.19 % increase on end to end delay, and 3.09 % increase on route discovery process.
Study of Weight in Motion Sensor for Railroad Crossing Warning System Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Yoeseph N M , Marzuki A , Yunianto M , Purnomo F A
Published: October 2019

IThe risk of accidents in the railway, especially on unmanned railroad crossing, are still high. A train arrival on railroad crossing warning system is indispensable. The warning system will detect train arrival on the railroad crossing and issue a warning to the crossers. A sensor based on optical fiber Weight in Motion (WIM) is proposed. This paper presents a design of a railroad crossing warning system based on WIM sensor. The sensor placed under the railroad tracks and detects vibrations footprints transmitted along those rails. Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is used to process the signal pattern of the WIM system output. By using ANN, the vibration footprint pattern was classified and used as on-sensor train detection. As the train detected, the arrival time of the train on the raiload crossing was estimated. The result is a warning system which can detect train arrival on the railroad crossing and issue a warning signal.
Determination Of First Criticality In TRIGA 2000 Reactor Modificated Using Plate Type Fuel With MCNP6
Authors: Hardiyanti I S , Riyatun  , Suharyana  , Khakim A
Published: October 2019

This research offers a fuel conversion from cylinder type to plate type for solving the operation problems as a solution when the TRIGA reactor fuel production run out. The research has been implemented utilizing MCNP6 software to model and simulate the core of the TRIGA 2000 reactor plate type fuel. The geometry of the simulated reactor consists of a reflector, a moderator and a reactor tank. The fuel was U3Si2Al with 19.75% enrichment and the density was 2.96 gU/cm3, the reflector was graphite and the control rod was AgInCd. The first criticality value with 15 fuel assemblies and the 4 control rods position at 11.97cm from the top surface of the reactor core was (1.00000 ± 0.00016) in agreement with the reference value for initial configuration of TRIGA reactor core was (1.00 ± 0.01).
Lung Biopsy Findings in Severe Pulmonary Illness Associated With E-Cigarette Use (Vaping)
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Sanjay , Mehrad Mitra , Dammert Pedro , Arrossi Andrea V , Sarda Rakesh , Brenner David S , Maldonado Fabien , Choi Humberto , Ghobrial Michael
Published: October 2019

Objectives

The aim of this report is to describe the lung biopsy findings in vaping-associated pulmonary illness.

Methods

Lung biopsies from eight patients with vaping-associated pulmonary illness were reviewed.

Results

The biopsies were from eight men (aged 19-61 years) with respiratory symptoms following e-cigarette use (vaping). Workup for infection was negative in all cases, and there was no evidence for other etiologies. Imaging showed diffuse bilateral ground-glass opacities in all patients. Most recovered with corticosteroid therapy, while one died. Lung biopsies (seven transbronchial, one surgical) showed acute lung injury, including organizing pneumonia and/or diffuse alveolar damage. Common features were fibroblast plugs, hyaline membranes, fibrinous exudates, type 2 pneumocyte hyperplasia, and interstitial organization. Some cases featured a sparse interstitial chronic inflammatory infiltrate. Although macrophages were present within the airspaces in all cases, this feature was not prominent, and findings typical of exogenous lipoid pneumonia were absent.

Conclusions

The histopathology of acute pulmonary illness related to e-cigarette use (vaping) is characterized by acute lung injury patterns, supporting the contention that vaping can cause severe lung damage.
Replying to Halpin and Kramer: Agreements, Disagreements and No-Agreements
Authors: Hurd Heidi M , Moore Michael S
Published: October 2019

The article considers in detail one criticism of an earlier paper of ours advanced by both Matthew Kramer and Andrew Halpin. This is the criticism that the content of deontic statuses (such as rights and duties) does not shift but is identical in truly correlatively-related deontic statuses. We argue that the content does shift in both our scheme and in Hohfeld's scheme for the logic of rights, and that such shifts are both good things and consistent with correlativity, properly understood. Miscellaneous other criticisms are also discussed, albeit more briefly.
Root traits benefitting crop production in environments with limited water and nutrient availability
Authors: White Philip J
Published: October 2019

Background

Breeding for advantageous root traits will play a fundamental role in improving the efficiency of water and nutrient acquisition, closing yield gaps, and underpinning the ‘Evergreen Revolution’ that must match crop production with human demand.

Scope

This preface provides an overview of a Special Issue of Annals of Botany on ‘Root traits benefitting crop production in environments with limited water and nutrient availability’. The first papers in the Special Issue examine how breeding for reduced shoot stature and greater harvest index during the Green Revolution affected root system architecture. It is observed that reduced plant height and root architecture are inherited independently and can be improved simultaneously to increase the acquisition and utilization of carbon, water and mineral nutrients. These insights are followed by papers examining beneficial root traits for resource acquisition in environments with limited water or nutrient availability, such as deep rooting, control of hydraulic conductivity, formation of aerenchyma, proliferation of lateral roots and root hairs, foraging of nutrient-rich patches, manipulation of rhizosphere pH and the exudation of low molecular weight organic solutes. The Special Issue concludes with papers exploring the interactions of plant roots and microorganisms, highlighting the need for plants to control the symbiotic relationships between mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobia to achieve maximal growth, and the roles of plants and microbes in the modification and development of soils.
A functional mixed model for scalar on function regression with application to a functional MRI study
Authors: Ma Wanying , Xiao Luo , Liu Bowen , Lindquist Martin A
Published: October 2019

Motivated by a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, we propose a new functional mixed model for scalar on function regression. The model extends the standard scalar on function regression for repeated outcomes by incorporating subject-specific random functional effects. Using functional principal component analysis, the new model can be reformulated as a mixed effects model and thus easily fit. A test is also proposed to assess the existence of the subject-specific random functional effects. We evaluate the performance of the model and test via a simulation study, as well as on data from the motivating fMRI study of thermal pain. The data application indicates significant subject-specific effects of the human brain hemodynamics related to pain and provides insights on how the effects might differ across subjects.
EVI1 induces autophagy to promote drug resistance via regulation of ATG7 expression in leukemia cells
Authors: Niu Yuna , Yang Xue , Chen Yifei , Jin Xinyue , Li Li , Guo Yilin , Li Xuelu , Xie Yecheng , Zhang Yun , Wang Hui
Published: October 2019

Ecotropic viral integration site 1 (EVI1) is an oncogenic transcription factor, which is abnormally expressed in myeloid leukemia and other several solid cancers. It is associated with short survival as well as anticancer drug resistance. Autophagy is a protective mechanism that promotes cancer cell growth and survival under stressed conditions including clinical drug treatment. Here evidences are provided that EVI1 induces autophagy and mediated drug resistance in myeloid leukemia cells. Both knockdown using RNAi and pharmacological inhibition of autophagy significantly increase sensitivity to cytotoxic drug treatment in EVI1high cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that EVI1 regulated autophagy by directly binding to autophagy-related gene autophagy related 7 (ATG7) promoter and transcriptionally upregulating its expression. Notably, ATG7 expression was positively correlated with EVI1 in bone marrow mononuclear cells from myeloid leukemia patients. Acute myeloid leukemia patients with high level of EVI1 are associated with unfavorable overall survival, which was aggravated by simultaneous high expression of ATG7 in these patients. Furthermore, ChIP and firefly luciferase reporter assay identified an EVI1-binding site at 227 upstream promoter region of ATG7 which regulated its transcription. In addition, enforced expression of EVI1 also increased intracellular reactive oxygen species and ATG7 mRNA levels as well as autophagy activity, whereas the increase was attenuated after treatment with reactive oxygen species scavenger, suggesting the involvement of reactive oxygen species in EVI1-induced autophagy. These findings demonstrate that EVI protects myeloid leukemia cell from anticancer drug treatment by inducing autophagy through dual control of ATG7. These results might present a new therapeutic approach for improving treatment outcome in myelogenous leukemia with EVI1high.
Characteristics of Motor Dysfunction in Longstanding Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Robinson-Papp Jessica , Gensler Gary , Navis Allison , Sherman Seth , Ellis Ronald J , Gelman Benjamin B , Kolson Dennis L , Letendre Scott L , Singer Elyse J , Valdes-Sueiras Miguel , Morgello Susan
Published: October 2019

Background

Cognitive dysfunction in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has decreased, but milder forms of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) persist along with motor dysfunction. The HIV Motor Scale (HMS) is a validated tool that captures motor abnormalities on routine neurologic examination and which is associated with cognitive impairment in HIV. In this study, we applied a modified HMS (MHMS) to a nationwide cohort of people with longstanding HIV to characterize and understand the factors contributing to motor dysfunction.

Methods

The National NeuroAIDS Tissue Consortium is a nationwide longitudinal cohort study. Participants undergo regular assessments including neurological examination, neuropsychological testing, and immunovirologic data collection. Data from examinations were used to calculate the MHMS score, which was then correlated with history of AIDS-related central nervous system (CNS) disorders (ARCD; eg, prior CNS opportunistic infection), cerebrovascular disease (CVD), and HAND.

Results

Sixty-nine percent of participants showed an abnormality on the MHMS, with 27% classified as severe. Results did not vary based on demographic or immunologic variables. The most common abnormalities seen were gait (54%), followed by coordination (39%) and strength (25%), and these commonly co-occurred. CVD (P = .02), history of ARCD (P = .001), and HAND (P = .001) were all associated with higher (ie, worse) HMS in univariate analyses; CVD and ARCD persisted in multivariate analyses. CVD was also marginally associated with symptomatic HAND.

Conclusions

Complex motor dysfunction remains common in HIV and is associated with CVD, ARCD, and to a lesser extent, HAND. Future studies are needed to understand the longitudinal trajectory of HIV-associated motor dysfunction, its neural substrates, and impact on quality of life.
Comparison of Human H3N2 Antibody Responses Elicited by Egg-Based, Cell-Based, and Recombinant Protein–Based Influenza Vaccines During the 2017–2018 Season
Authors: Gouma Sigrid , Zost Seth J , Parkhouse Kaela , Branche Angela , Topham David J , Cobey Sarah , Hensley Scott E
Published: October 2019

Background

The H3N2 component of egg-based 2017–2018 influenza vaccines possessed an adaptive substitution that alters antigenicity. Several influenza vaccines include antigens that are produced through alternative systems, but a systematic comparison of different vaccines used during the 2017–2018 season has not been completed.

Methods

We compared antibody responses in humans vaccinated with Fluzone (egg-based, n = 23), Fluzone High-Dose (egg-based, n = 16), Flublok (recombinant protein–based, n = 23), or Flucelvax (cell-based, n = 23) during the 2017–2018 season. We completed neutralization assays using an egg-adapted H3N2 virus, a cell-based H3N2 virus, wild-type 3c2.A and 3c2.A2 H3N2 viruses, and the H1N1 vaccine strain. We also performed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays using a recombinant wild-type 3c2.A hemagglutinin. Antibody responses were compared in adjusted analysis.

Results

Postvaccination neutralizing antibody titers to 3c2.A and 3c2.A2 were higher in Flublok recipients compared with Flucelvax or Fluzone recipients (P < .01). Postvaccination titers to 3c2.A and 3c2.A2 were similar in Flublok and Fluzone High-Dose recipients, though seroconversion rates trended higher in Flublok recipients. Postvaccination titers in Flucelvax recipients were low to all H3N2 viruses tested, including the cell-based H3N2 strain. Postvaccination neutralizing antibody titers to H1N1 were similar among the different vaccine groups.

Conclusions

These data suggest that influenza vaccine antigen match and dose are both important for eliciting optimal H3N2 antibody responses in humans. Future studies should be designed to determine if our findings directly impact vaccine effectiveness.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03068949.
Risk of Neurological Disorders in Patients With European Lyme Neuroborreliosis: A Nationwide, Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Haahr Rasmus , Tetens Malte M , Dessau Ram B , Krogfelt Karen A , Bodilsen Jacob , Andersen Nanna S , Møller Jens K , Roed Casper , Christiansen Claus B , Ellermann-Eriksen Svend , Bangsborg Jette M , Hansen Klaus , Benfield Thomas L , Andersen Christian Ø , Obel Niels , Lebech Anne-Mette , Omland Lars H
Published: October 2019

Background

Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB), caused by the tick-borne spirochetes of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato species complex, has been suggested to be associated with a range of neurological disorders. In a nationwide, population-based cohort study, we examined the associations between LNB and dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, motor neuron disease, epilepsy, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Methods

We used national registers to identify all Danish residents diagnosed during 1986–2016 with LNB (n = 2067), created a gender- and age-matched comparison cohort from the general population (n = 20 670), and calculated risk estimates and hazard ratios.

Results

We observed no long-term increased risks of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, motor neuron diseases, or epilepsy. However, within the first year, 8 (0.4%) of the LNB patients developed epilepsy, compared with 20 (0.1%) of the comparison cohort (difference, 0.3%; 95% confidence interval, .02–.6%). In the LNB group, 11 (0.5%) patients were diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome within the first year after LNB diagnosis, compared with 0 (0.0%) in the comparison cohort. After the first year, the risk of Guillain-Barré was not increased.

Conclusions

LNB patients did not have increased long-term risks of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, motor neuron diseases, epilepsy, or Guillain-Barré. Although the absolute risk is low, LNB patients might have an increased short-term risk of epilepsy and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Cardiovascular risk of electronic cigarettes: a review of preclinical and clinical studies
Authors: Buchanan Nicholas D , Grimmer Jacob A , Tanwar Vineeta , Schwieterman Neill , Mohler Peter J , Wold Loren E
Published: October 2019

Cigarette smoking is the most preventable risk factor related to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Tobacco usage has declined in recent years; however, the use of alternative nicotine delivery methods, particularly e-cigarettes, has increased exponentially despite limited data on their short- and long-term safety and efficacy. Due to their unique properties, the impact of e-cigarettes on cardiovascular physiology is not fully known. Here, we summarize both preclinical and clinical data extracted from short- and long-term studies on the cardiovascular effects of e-cigarette use. Current findings support that e-cigarettes are not a harm-free alternative to tobacco smoke. However, the data are primarily derived from acute studies. The impact of chronic e-cigarette exposure is essentially unstudied. To explore the uniqueness of e-cigarettes, we contemplate the cardiovascular effects of individual e-cigarette constituents. Overall, data suggest that exposure to e-cigarettes could be a potential cardiovascular health concern. Further preclinical research and randomized trials are needed to expand basic and clinical investigations before considering e-cigarettes safe alternatives to conventional cigarettes.
Phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging and computational fluid dynamics assessment of thoracic aorta blood flow: a literature review
Authors: Jarral Omar A , Tan Matthew K H , Salmasi Mohammad Yousuf , Pirola Selene , Pepper John R , O’Regan Declan P , Xu Xiao Y , Athanasiou Thanos
Published: October 2019

The death rate from thoracic aortic disease is on the rise and represents a growing global health concern as patients are often asymptomatic before acute events, which have devastating effects on health-related quality of life. Biomechanical factors have been found to play a major role in the development of both acquired and congenital aortic diseases. However, much is still unknown and translational benefits of this knowledge are yet to be seen. Phase-contrast cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging of thoracic aortic blood flow has emerged as an exceptionally powerful non-invasive tool enabling visualization of complex flow patterns, and calculation of variables such as wall shear stress. This has led to multiple new findings in the areas of phenotype-dependent bicuspid valve flow patterns, thoracic aortic aneurysm formation and aortic prosthesis performance assessment. Phase-contrast cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging has also been used in conjunction with computational fluid modelling techniques to produce even more sophisticated analyses, by allowing the calculation of haemodynamic variables with exceptional temporal and spatial resolution. Translationally, these technologies may potentially play a major role in the emergence of precision medicine and patient-specific treatments in patients with aortic disease. This clinically focused review will provide a systematic overview of key insights from published studies to date.