bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Ab initio Study on the Convergence of Electronic Properties of SiC Nanotubes
Authors: Adhikari Kapil , Ray Asok K.
Published: October 2017

Ab initio calculations of the electronic structures of silicon carbide (SiC) nanotubes represented by clusters are presented. The nanotube clusters of chiralities (3,3) and (5,5) are studied using the hybrid density functional B3LYP (Becke’s 3-parameter and the Lee-Yang-Parr exchange-correlation) and LANL2DZ (Los Alamos National Laboratory double ?) and 3-21G* basis sets. Evolution of electronic properties of silicon carbide (SiC) nanotubes (3, 3) and (5,5) with their length is discussed. The results suggest that the electronic properties of nanotubes change for short tubes of unit cells with lengths varying from 1 to 5. However, the properties do not seem to change significantly after this. Therefore, an infinite silicon carbide (SiC) nanotube can be approximated by a nanotube cluster of 5 unit cells.The Himalayan PhysicsVol. 3, No. 3, July 2012Page : 69-73
Study on QSPR Method for Theoretical Calculation of Boiling Point of Some organic Compounds
Authors: Sapkota Kamal Raj
Published: October 2017

Quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) models based on molecular descriptors derived from molecular structures have been developed for the prediction of boiling point using a set of 25 organic compounds. The molecular descriptors used to represent molecular structure include topological indices and constitutional descriptors. Forward stepwise regression was used to construct the QSPR models. Multiple linear regressions is utilized to construct the linear prediction model. The prediction result agrees well with the experimental value of these properties.The Himalayan PhysicsVol. 3, No. 3, July 2012Page: 93-95
Mobile Communication and its Adverse Effects
Authors: Dahal Kul Prasad
Published: October 2017

Mobile phone became almost essential part of daily life for all generation of people. It functions with the help of transmission of electromagnetic waves from towers to the cell phones in the micro wave frequency region. The energy carried by the waves is not only useful for mobile communication but also produce adverse affects on the users' health as well as to all living beings which are in the radiation area. The paper aims to discuss some of the possible dark side of health concern by the usage of cell phone and radiation from the towers. It also aims to suggest the possible remedies to minimize the health problems.The Himalayan Physics Vol. 4, No. 4, 2013 Page: 51-59 Uploaded date: 12/23/2013
Supersymmetry
Authors: Lamsal Min Raj
Published: October 2017

This article deals with the introduction of supersymmetry as the latest and most emerging burning issue for the explanation of nature including elementary particles as well as the universe. Supersymmetry is a conjectured symmetry of space and time. It has been a very popular idea among theoretical physicists. It is nearly an article of faith among elementary-particle physicists that the four fundamental physical forces in nature ultimately derive from a single force. For years scientists have tried to construct a Grand Unified Theory showing this basic unity. Physicists have already unified the electron-magnetic and weak forces in an 'electroweak' theory, and recent work has focused on trying to include the strong force. Gravity is much harder to handle, but work continues on that, as well. In the world of everyday experience, the strengths of the forces are very different, leading physicists to conclude that their convergence could occur only at very high energies, such as those existing in the earliest moments of the universe, just after the Big Bang.The Himalayan Physics Vol. 4, No. 4, 2013 Page: 75-79 Uploaded date: 12/23/2013
First-Principles Study of Arsenic Atom, Its Irons and Molecule
Authors: Sapkota N. R. , Nakarmi J. J.
Published: October 2017

In the present work, we have performed the ground state energy calculations for arsenic atom, its ions and molecule using Hartree-Fock (HF) cluster approximation. The correlation effects in the HF calculations have been taken into account by considering the Møller-Plesset second order perturbation (MP2) and truncated form of Configurational Interaction (CI) that includes single, double, and quadruple excitations, also known as QCISD implemented by the Gaussian 03 sets of program. Our study shows that the ground state of arsenic atom is a quadrate state i.e., charge zero and multiplicity four with ground state energy - 60796.66 eV in MP2 levels of calculation with cc-pVDZ basis set. We have performed the first-principles calculation to study the first electron affinity and ionization energies of arsenic atom up to tenth level. The first-principles calculation has been also carried out to study the equilibrium configuration of arsenic molecule (As2). The bond length and binding energy of arsenic molecule (As2) is found to be 2.15 Å and 3.65 eV in MP2 levels of approximation with basis set 6-311G(3df). Our study has been extended to calculate electrostatic potential for arsenic molecule (As2), whose values at global maxima and minima are found to be 0.30 eV and - 0.20 eV respectively. The calculation of HOMO-LUMO energy gap for the arsenic molecule (As2) is almost independent of choice of basis sets as well as levels of approximation. The HF, MP2, and QCISD calculations also have been carried out to estimate the electric field gradient (EFG) parameters for the excited nuclear state in arsenic molecule (As2). Our results show that the HF, MP2, and QCISD values for the EFG parameters do not differ significantly, indicating that electron correlation effects do not contribute for the determination of EFG parameter.The Himalayan Physics Year 5, Vol. 5, Kartik 2071 (Nov 2014)Page : 17-21
Nuclear Energy
Authors: Poudel Parashu Ram
Published: October 2017

Nuclear energy is the latest energy source to be used on a large scale. It has tremendous potentiality to meet the growing demand of energy without degrading the environment. Presently the nuclear fission of some heavy elements of the periodic table produces the vast majority of nuclear energy in the direct service of humankind. So nuclear energy produced by nuclear fission and its impacts are the main focus of this article.The Himalayan Physics Year 5, Vol. 5, Kartik 2071 (Nov 2014)Page: 51-58
Study of Multiband DRA for Mobile communication
Authors: Yadav Dorik Narayan
Published: October 2017

The explosive demand for mobile communication and information transfer using personal devices such as mobile phone or notebook computer has caused the need for major advancements of antenna design. With the development of 3G and 4G technologies multiband and wideband antennas operating at additional frequency band such as UMTS and LTE are required. In this chapter it is initially presented the fundamental parameters of antenna to be taken into account while designing an antenna and determining the operating frequency bands. Multiband antennas which are used especially in mobile unit are described. The techniques to make an antenna convenient for multiband operations are given. There different antennas such as monopoles, PIFA are examined with several examples in the literatures. In the last part, the types of wideband antennas (micros strip patch antenna, DRA of planer) used in mobile communication which are more appropriate for base station or access point applications are presented.  The Himalayan Physics Vol. 5, No. 5, Nov. 2014 Page: 75-77
An introduction to nanotechnology and its implications
Authors: Subedi Shree Kanta
Published: October 2017

Nanotechnology is a broad term that covers many areas of science, research and technology. In its most basic form, it can be described as working with things that are small. The area of investigation is defined by the study, design, manipulation, manufacture, and control of materials or devices by physical or chemical means at resolutions on the order of one billionth of a meter. The potential for a wide range of applications makes a basic understanding of nanotechnology important to us. This article presents an introduction to nanotechnology and discusses the implications of it that could impact the human life in the near future. The Himalayan Physics Vol. 5, No. 5, Nov. 2014 Page: 78-81
Hetero-Coordination in Liquid Pb-K Alloys
Authors: Singh B. P. , Jha I. S. , Koirala I.
Published: October 2017

The observed asymmetry in properties of mixing of Pb-K alloys in the molten state is successfully explained on the basis of the quasi-lattice model. The thermodynamic functions such as free energy of mixing, enthalpy of mixing, entropy of mixing and chemical activity of the constituent atom of the alloys have been computed within the frame work of presented model. Most of the computed values are in good agreement with the experimental data. The pair-wise interaction energies between the species of the melt are found to depend considerably on temperature. Theoretical analysis suggests that hetero-coordination leading to the formation of complex Pb2K is likely to exist but is of weakly interacting in nature. The Himalayan Physics Vol. 5, No. 5, Nov. 2014 Page: 82-86
Retracted: Temperature and Mass Profile of Far-infrared Skeleton Nebula
Authors: Aryal Binil
Published: October 2017

The following retraction notice for this article appears in Vol.6&7 2017 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hp.v6i0.18883On 2nd January 2018 the Editorial Board of Himalayan Physics agreed to retract the article ‘Temperature and Mass Profile of Far-infrared Skeleton Nebula’ published in Himalayan Physics, Vol.6&7 pp.1-4 (DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hj.v6i0.18348) because it is a duplication of an article published in Himalayan Physics Vol.1 2010 pp.1-3 (DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hj.v1i0.5162).Editorial Board, Himalayan Physics2nd January 2018
Structural and Optical Properties of Fluorine Doped Tin Oxide Thin Film Deposited by Home Built Spray Pyrolysis Unit
Authors: Koirala Maha Prasad , Joshi Leela Pradhan
Published: October 2017

Fluorine doped Tin Oxide (FTO) thin films were deposited on glass substrates by home built spray pyrolysis setup at (400 ± 5)ºC. The method was found to be very economic and functional. The deposited FTO films were highly transparent and had low resistivity. The structural investigation of as-prepared films was performed using X-ray diffraction. Our results showed that a deposited FTO film was of polycrystalline nature with preferential orientation along (211) planes. The direct band gap value was found to be 3.25eV for 10% FTO film. The sheet resistance of this film was measured to be 68 Ω/ square. The effect of fluorine doping concentration on its band gap was also studied in this report.The Himalayan Physics Vol. 6 & 7, April 2017 (58-60)
Geospatial Analysis of Land Use Land Cover Change Modeling in Phewa Lake Watershed of Nepal by Using GEOMOD Model
Authors: Regmi R. R. , Saha S. K. , Subedi D. S.
Published: October 2017

Improper practices of land use/ land cover (LULC) are deteriorating watershed conditions. Remote sensing and GIS tools were used to study LULC dynamics using GEOMOD Model and predict the future LULC scenario for years 2015 and 2020, in terms of magnitude and direction, based on past trend in Phewa Lake watershed, Kaski district, Nepal. Due to the proximate and underlying causes, land use and land cover change has become the main challenge of the present world The analysis of LULC pattern during 1995, 2000, 2005 and 2010 using satellite-derived maps has shown that the biophysical and socio-economic drivers including slope, road network and settlements proximity have influenced the spatial pattern of the watershed LULC. These lead to an accretive linear growth of Medium to Fairly Dense Forest, Open Forest, Waste Land and Built-up Land but decrease in other LULC classes. Annual rates of increase from 1995 to 2010 in Medium to Fairly Dense Forest, Open Forest, Waste Land and Built-up land were 75.15, 32.7, 10.14 and 24.2 ha/ year respectively, while the rates decrease in Dense Forest, Terrace Agriculture, Valley Agriculture and Bush/Scrub land were 42.58, 58.17, 27.46 and 2.48 ha/year respectively. The predicted LULC scenario for 2015 and 2020, with reasonably good accuracy would provide useful inputs to the LULC planners for effective management of the watershed. The study is a maiden attempt that revealed the expansion of Waste and Built-up Land, which is the main driving force for loss of Agriculture Land and Grass Land, and an increase in Medium to Fairly Dense Forest and Open Forest leading to decrease in Dense Forest and Bush/Scrub Land in the watershed.The Himalayan Physics Vol. 6 & 7, April 2017 (65-72)
Superconductivity and Cooper Pairs
Authors: Subedi Mitramani Subedi
Published: October 2017

In this article, some crucial information is given in regard to superconductivity. The advancement in high temperature superconductivity is believed to solve the problem of energy crisis. So, intensive research in this part of physics is recommended. Actually, Cooper pairs of electrons are responsible for superconductivity.The Himalayan Physics Vol. 6 & 7, April 2017 (104-107)
Pelvic Floor Morphometric Differences in Elderly Women with or without Urinary Incontinence
Authors: Fradet Sarah , Morin Mélanie , Kruger Jennifer , Dumoulin Chantale
Published: October 2017

Purpose: Urinary incontinence (UI) affects as many as 50% of women aged 60 years and older, but UI pathophysiology, specifically in elderly women, remains unclear. A better understanding of morphometric differences between continent and urinary incontinent elderly women is needed to improve the effectiveness of conservative treatment approaches. We hypothesized that morphometric differences in the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) among elderly women with and without UI could be observed using three- and four-dimensional (3D/4D) transperineal ultrasound (TPU) imaging. Method: A total of 40 elderly women (20 women with and 20 women without UI), with a mean age of 67.10 (SD 4.94) years, participated in the study. This was a case-control study in which TPU images were taken under three conditions: rest, maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), and Valsalva. Independent t-tests were conducted to compare measurements between the groups. Results: The study revealed statistically significant differences between the groups. At rest, the levator hiatal area and transverse diameter were bigger, and the PFM position was lower in the incontinent group. During MVC, all axial plane parameters were bigger in the incontinent group. In the sagittal plane, PFM position was again lower in the incontinent group. During Valsalva, the anorectal angle was wider in the women with incontinence. Conclusion: PFM morphometric differences were present and were observed using 3D/4D TPU imaging in elderly women with and without UI.
Characteristics and Surgical Success of Patients Presenting for Repair of Genitourinary Fistula in VVF Center of a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Ara Rowshan , Amin Abu Taher Mohammad Nurul , Hoque Md Shadiqul , Kasem Setara Binte
Published: October 2017

Objective(s): To carry out a prospective review of patients who had undergone surgical repair of genitourinary fistula to determine patients characteristics and to explore success of surgery in relation to aetilogy of fistula and attempt of surgery.Materials and Methods : This cross-sectional study was carried out in patients attending the Fistula centre in Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) from April 27th to July25th, 2013. Out of 47 patients 27 were recruited for this study. Detailed history was taken about socio-demographic character, gestational age, duration of labour, mode of delivery, conduction of labour and foetal outcome. Causes of fistula, information about fistula repair and success rate were noted. Main outcome measures were successful repair and correlation of success with aetiology of fistula, attempt of surgery. Data were analyzed by SPSS package. A p value of <0.5 was considered as significant.Results: Mean age of the patients was 33.73± 10.73 years with a range of 17 to 58 years and mean height was 144.67±3.013cm. Most of the women (66.7%) were from lower social class. The most common fistula 19 (70.37%) was obstetric due to obstructed labour and in 8 (25.93%) cases it was due to consequence of gynaecological surgery. Mean gestational age of the foetus were 38.57±1.409 weeks and duration of labour was 34.83±14.618 hours. Out of 27 patients, 7 had prior fistula repair without success, 4 patients had prior 2 attempts and 3 had previous 3 and 4 attempts. In 21 patients surgical repair was done through vaginal route while 6 required abdominal approach. Local repair was done in 18 (66.67%) cases and grafting was done in 5(18.52%) cases. Fifteen (55.56%) patients had successful repair and success rate was more when it was first attempted (90%) and 20% in repeat attempt but it was statistically significant p<0.05. Success of repair was more when causes of fistula was gynaecological (87.50%) than when it was obstetrical (42.11%), p<0.05.Conclusion: Success of surgery of genitourinary fistula depends upon so many factors. Gynaecological fistula can be repaired more successfully than obstetrical one. First attempt of surgery is the best attempt, so must be done at skilled hand.Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2016; Vol. 31(1) : 34-39
Unilateral Absence of Ovary and Fallopian Tube: 3 Rare Case Reports
Authors: Siddiqui Maruf , Ghafoor Nusrat , Naznine Fahmida , Siddiqua Chowdhury Ayesha , Chowdhury TA
Published: October 2017

Here we reported three cases of unilateral tubal and ovarian absence, along with laparoscopic images and images during ceasarean section in Anwer Khan Modern Medical College. Three patients with primary infertility of 6-8 years duration were reported as non-visualization of right adnexal structures on transvaginal ultrasound and hysterosalpingography. Absence of right adnexal structures of varying degree were detected during laparoscopy. Subsequent evaluation of renal system with Intravenous Pyelography were done. Ipsilateral absence of the fallopian tube and ovary without any other system anomalies were detected. Vascular accidents, Congenital defects or torsion could be the possible etiologic factors. Laparoscopy is a feasible option as a diagnostic tool for these cases.Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2016; Vol. 31(2) : 97-100
A Rare Shape of Placenta; Placenta Bipartite, Bilobata, Dimidiate, Duplex: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Biswas Pratima Rani , Paul Gautom Kumar , Chowdhury Mina , Selim Md
Published: October 2017

Placenta bipartite is a rare variation of placental morphology. The estimated incidence is up to 2-8 % of pregnancy. There is no distinct racial, ethnic or geographical prediction observed. The diagnosis of an anomalous placenta is important for patient management at the time of delivery. Specifically, the bilobed placenta can be associated with first-trimester bleeding, polyhydramnios, abruption, and retained placenta. Careful attention to the cord insertion is also required for optimal fetal management. We report a case of a 24 years multi gravida with previous history of 2 C/S who had regular antenatal checkup and her pregnancy was uneventful till 36 wks. Her early USG at 16 weeks showed low lying placenta little away from the internal os of cervix. She was advised to take complete bed rest, avoid journey and coitus. Couple was warned about pervaginal bleeding, which may occur any time and also advised to ready at least four blood donors. Her 2nd USG scan at 26wks showed placenta bipartite and insertion of cord over the internal os of cervix. Patient was treated conservatively and dose of inj. Oradexon was completed at 32wks for lung maturation. At 36 weeks, patient perceived less foetal movement and then emergency LUCS with BLTL was done. Baby was well and her postpartum period was uneventful.Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2016; Vol. 31(2) : 101-103
Physics of lightning: new model approaches and prospects for satellite observations
Authors: Iudin D I , Davydenko S S , Gotlib V M , Dolgonosov M S , Zelenyi L M
Published: October 2017

Fundamental problems of lightning physics are reviewed, and recent advances in the instrumental (primarily satellite) detection of atmospheric discharge phenomena are discussed. The formation of plasma spots with the parameters necessary for the initiation and development of a lightning discharge in a thundercloud is regarded as a nonequilibrium phase transition induced by electrostatic noise. The noise is caused by the collective dynamics of charged hydrometeors, i.e., ice particles and water drops suspended in a convective flow. The interaction of plasma formations and their polarization in a large-scale intracloud electric field ensure the efficient generation of streamers, whose description in terms of random graphs and percolation theory forms the basis for the phenomenological representation of discharge as a fractal dissipative structure. This approach enables solving a number of key problems surrounding thunderstorm electricity, including the lightning initiation mechanism in essentially subthreshold electric fields, the properties and morphology of various types of lightning discharges, and a self-consistent description of the broadband electromagnetic radiation they emit. Prospects for the further development of the model are discussed and the role of forthcoming satellite experiments in the observation of intense electromagnetic radiation from thunderstorm clouds is examined.
Probiotics for the Prevention of Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea in Outpatients—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Blaabjerg Sara , Artzi Daniel , Aabenhus Rune
Published: October 2017

A common adverse effect of antibiotic use is diarrhea. Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, upon oral ingestion, may prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) by the normalization of an unbalanced gastrointestinal flora. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the benefits and harms of probiotics used for the prevention of AAD in an outpatient setting. A search of the PubMed database was conducted and yielded a total of 17 RCTs with 3631 participants to be included in the review. A meta-analysis was conducted for the primary outcome: the incidence of AAD. The pooled results found that AAD was present in 8.0% of the probiotic group compared to 17.7% in the control group (RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.66; I2 = 58%), and the species-specific results were similar regarding the probiotic strains L. rhamnosus GG and S. boulardii. However, the overall quality of the included studies was moderate. A meta-analysis of the ten trials reporting adverse events demonstrated no statistically significant differences in the incidence of adverse events between the intervention and control group (RD 0.00, 95% CI −0.02 to 0.02, 2.363 participants). The results suggests that probiotic use may be beneficial in the prevention of AAD among outpatients. Furthermore, the use of probiotics appears safe.
Intermittent Smoothing Approaches for Wind Power Output: A Review
Authors: Jabir Muhammad , Azil Illias Hazlee , Raza Safdar , Mokhlis Hazlie
Published: October 2017

Wind energy is one of the most common types of renewable energy resource. Due to its sustainability and environmental benefits, it is an emerging source for electric power generation. Rapid and random changes of wind speed makes it an irregular and inconsistent power source when connected to the grid, causing different technical problems in protection, power quality and generation dispatch control. Due to these problems, effective intermittent smoothing approaches for wind power output are crucially needed to minimize such problems. This paper reviews various intermittent smoothing approaches used in smoothing the output power fluctuations caused by wind energy. Problems associated with the inclusion of wind energy resources to grid are also briefly reviewed. From this review, it has been found that battery energy storage system is the most suitable and effective smoothing approach, provided that an effective control strategy is available for optimal utilization of battery energy system. This paper further demonstrates different control strategies built for battery energy storage system to obtain the smooth output wind power.
Battery State-Of-Charge Estimation Based on a Dual Unscented Kalman Filter and Fractional Variable-Order Model
Authors: Cai Ming , Chen Weijie , Tan Xiaojun
Published: October 2017

State-of-charge (SOC) estimation is essential for the safe and effective utilization of lithium-ion batteries. As the SOC cannot be directly measured by sensors, an accurate battery model and a corresponding estimation method is needed. Compared with electrochemical models, the equivalent circuit models are widely used due to their simplicity and feasibility. However, such integer order-based models are not sufficient to simulate the key behavior of the battery, and therefore, their accuracy is limited. In this paper, a new model with fractional order elements is presented. The fractional order values are adaptively updated over time. For battery SOC estimation, an unscented fractional Kalman filter (UFKF) is employed based on the proposed model. Furthermore, a dual estimation scheme is designed to estimate the variable orders simultaneously. The accuracy of the proposed model is verified under different dynamic profiles, and the experimental results indicate the stability and accuracy of the estimation method.
Self-Powered Electrochemical Lactate Biosensing
Authors: Baingane Ankit , Slaughter Gymama
Published: October 2017

This work presents the development and characterization of a self-powered electrochemical lactate biosensor for real-time monitoring of lactic acid. The bioanode and biocathode were modified with D-lactate dehydrogenase (D-LDH) and bilirubin oxidase (BOD), respectively, to facilitate the oxidation and reduction of lactic acid and molecular oxygen. The bioelectrodes were arranged in a parallel configuration to construct the biofuel cell. This biofuel cell’s current–voltage characteristic was analyzed in the presence of various lactic acid concentrations over a range of 1–25 mM. An open circuit voltage of 395.3 mV and a short circuit current density of 418.8 µA/cm² were obtained when operating in 25 mM lactic acid. Additionally, a 10 pF capacitor was integrated via a charge pump circuit to the biofuel cell to realize the self-powered lactate biosensor with a footprint of 1.4 cm × 2 cm. The charge pump enabled the boosting of the biofuel cell voltage in bursts of 1.2–1.8 V via the capacitor. By observing the burst frequency of a 10 pF capacitor, the exact concentration of lactic acid was deduced. As a self-powered lactate sensor, a linear dynamic range of 1–100 mM lactic acid was observed under physiologic conditions (37 °C, pH 7.4) and the sensor exhibited an excellent sensitivity of 125.88 Hz/mM-cm2. This electrochemical lactate biosensor has the potential to be used for the real-time monitoring of lactic acid level in biological fluids.
Estimating Health Condition of the Wind Turbine Drivetrain System
Authors: Qian Peng , Ma Xiandong , Zhang Dahai
Published: October 2017

Condition Monitoring (CM) has been considered as an effective method to enhance the reliability of wind turbines and implement cost-effective maintenance. Thus, adopting an efficient approach for condition monitoring of wind turbines is desirable. This paper presents a data-driven model-based CM approach for wind turbines based on the online sequential extreme learning machine (OS-ELM) algorithm. A physical kinetic energy correction model is employed to normalize the temperature change to the value at the rated power output to eliminate the effect of variable speed operation of the turbines. The residual signal, obtained by comparing the predicted values and practical measurements, is processed by the physical correction model and then assessed with a Bonferroni interval method for fault diagnosis. Models have been validated using supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) data acquired from an operational wind farm, which contains various types of temperature data of the gearbox. The results show that the proposed method can detect more efficiently both the long-term aging characteristics and the short-term faults of the gearbox.
New Strategy for the Immobilization of Lipases on Glyoxyl–Agarose Supports: Production of Robust Biocatalysts for Natural Oil Transformation
Authors: Godoy César
Published: October 2017

Immobilization on Glyoxyl–agarose support (Gx) is one of the best strategies to stabilize enzymes. However, the strategy is difficult to apply at neutral pH when most enzymes are stable and, even when possible, produces labile derivatives. This work contributes to overcoming this hurdle through a strategy that combines solid-phase amination, presence of key additives, and derivative basification. To this end, aminated industrial lipases from Candida artarctica (CAL), Thermomyces lunuginosus (TLL), and the recombinant Geobacillus thermocatenulatus (BTL2) were immobilized on Gx for the first time at neutral pH using anthranilic acid (AA) or DTT as additives (immobilization yields >70%; recovered activities 37.5–76.7%). The spectroscopic evidence suggests nucleophilic catalysis and/or adsorption as the initial lipase immobilization events. Subsequent basification drastically increases the stability of BTL2–glyoxyl derivatives under harsh conditions (t1/2, from 2.1–54.5 h at 70 °C; from 10.2 h–140 h in 80% dioxane). The novel BTL2-derivatives were active and selective in fish oil hydrolysis (1.0–1.8 μmol of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) min-1·g-1) whereas the selected TLL-derivative was as active and stable in biodiesel production (fatty ethyl esters, EE) as the commercial Novozyme®-435 after ten reaction cycles (~70% EE). Therefore, the potential of the proposed strategy in producing suitable biocatalysts for industrial processes was demonstrated.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Novel (Z)- and (E)-Verbenone Oxime Esters
Authors: Hu Qiong , Lin Gui-Shan , Duan Wen-Gui , Huang Min , Lei Fu-Hou
Published: October 2017

Twenty-seven (Z)- and (E)-verbenone derivatives bearing an oxime ester moiety were designed and synthesized in search of novel bioactive molecules. Their structures were confirmed by UV-Vis, FTIR, NMR, ESI-MS, and elemental analysis. The antifungal and herbicidal activities of the target compounds were preliminarily evaluated. As a result, compound (E)-4n (R = β-pyridyl) exhibited excellent antifungal activity with growth inhibition percentages of 92.2%, 80.0% and 76.3% against Alternaria solani, Physalospora piricola, and Cercospora arachidicola at 50 µg/mL, showing comparable or better antifungal activity than the commercial fungicide chlorothalonil with growth inhibition of 96.1%, 75.0% and 73.3%, respectively, and 1.7−5.5-fold more growth inhibition than its stereoisomer (Z)-4n (R = β-pyridyl) with inhibition rates of 22.6%, 28.6% and 43.7%, respectively. In addition, seven compounds displayed significant growth inhibition activity of over 90% against the root of rape (Brassica campestris) at 100 µg/mL, exhibiting much better herbicidal activity than the commercial herbicide flumioxazin with a 63.0% growth inhibition. Among these seven compounds, compound (E)-4n (R = β-pyridyl) inhibited growth by 92.1%, which was 1.7-fold more than its stereoisomer (Z)-4n (R = β-pyridyl) which inhibited growth by 54.0%.
Characterization, Function, and Transcriptional Profiling Analysis of 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA Synthase Gene (GbHMGS1) towards Stresses and Exogenous Hormone Treatments in Ginkgo biloba
Authors: Meng Xiangxiang , Song Qiling , Ye Jiabao , Wang Lanlan , Xu Feng
Published: October 2017

3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase (HMGS) is one of the rate-limiting enzymes in the mevalonate pathway as it catalyzes the condensation of acetoacetyl-CoA to form 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA. In this study, A HMGS gene (designated as GbHMGS1) was cloned from Ginkgo biloba for the first time. GbHMGS1 contained a 1422-bp open-reading frame encoding 474 amino acids. Comparative and bioinformatics analysis revealed that GbHMGS1 was extensively homologous to HMGSs from other plant species. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the GbHMGS1 belonged to the plant HMGS superfamily, sharing a common evolutionary ancestor with other HMGSs, and had a further relationship with other gymnosperm species. The yeast complement assay of GbHMGS1 in HMGS-deficient Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain YSC6274 demonstrated that GbHMGS1 gene encodes a functional HMGS enzyme. The recombinant protein of GbHMGS1 was successfully expressed in E. coli. The in vitro enzyme activity assay showed that the kcat and Km values of GbHMGS1 were 195.4 min−1 and 689 μM, respectively. GbHMGS1 was constitutively expressed in all tested tissues, including the roots, stems, leaves, female flowers, male flowers and fruits. The transcript accumulation for GbHMGS1 was highest in the leaves. Expression profiling analyses revealed that GbHMGS1 expression was induced by abiotic stresses (ultraviolet B and cold) and hormone treatments (salicylic acid, methyl jasmonate, and ethephon) in G. biloba, indicating that GbHMGS1 gene was involved in the response to environmental stresses and plant hormones.
Halogenated 1-Hydroxynaphthalene-2-Carboxanilides Affecting Photosynthetic Electron Transport in Photosystem II
Authors: Gonec Tomas , Kos Jiri , Pesko Matus , Dohanosova Jana , Oravec Michal , Liptaj Tibor , Kralova Katarina , Jampilek Josef
Published: October 2017

Series of seventeen new multihalogenated 1-hydroxynaphthalene-2-carboxanilides was prepared and characterized. All the compounds were tested for their activity related to the inhibition of photosynthetic electron transport (PET) in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) chloroplasts. 1-Hydroxy-N-phenylnaphthalene-2-carboxamides substituted in the anilide part by 3,5-dichloro-, 4-bromo-3-chloro-, 2,5-dibromo- and 3,4,5-trichloro atoms were the most potent PET inhibitors (IC50 = 5.2, 6.7, 7.6 and 8.0 µM, respectively). The inhibitory activity of these compounds depends on the position and the type of halogen substituents, i.e., on lipophilicity and electronic properties of individual substituents of the anilide part of the molecule. Interactions of the studied compounds with chlorophyll a and aromatic amino acids present in pigment-protein complexes mainly in PS II were documented by fluorescence spectroscopy. The section between P680 and plastoquinone QB in the PET chain occurring on the acceptor side of PS II can be suggested as the site of action of the compounds. The structure-activity relationships are discussed.
Validation of Molecular Dynamics Simulations for Prediction of Three-Dimensional Structures of Small Proteins
Authors: Kato Koichi , Nakayoshi Tomoki , Fukuyoshi Shuichi , Kurimoto Eiji , Oda Akifumi
Published: October 2017

Although various higher-order protein structure prediction methods have been developed, almost all of them were developed based on the three-dimensional (3D) structure information of known proteins. Here we predicted the short protein structures by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in which only Newton’s equations of motion were used and 3D structural information of known proteins was not required. To evaluate the ability of MD simulationto predict protein structures, we calculated seven short test protein (10–46 residues) in the denatured state and compared their predicted and experimental structures. The predicted structure for Trp-cage (20 residues) was close to the experimental structure by 200-ns MD simulation. For proteins shorter or longer than Trp-cage, root-mean square deviation values were larger than those for Trp-cage. However, secondary structures could be reproduced by MD simulations for proteins with 10–34 residues. Simulations by replica exchange MD were performed, but the results were similar to those from normal MD simulations. These results suggest that normal MD simulations can roughly predict short protein structures and 200-ns simulations are frequently sufficient for estimating the secondary structures of protein (approximately 20 residues). Structural prediction method using only fundamental physical laws are useful for investigating non-natural proteins, such as primitive proteins and artificial proteins for peptide-based drug delivery systems.
Evaluation of the Ability of Nanostructured PEI-Coated Iron Oxide Nanoparticles to Incorporate Cisplatin during Synthesis
Authors: Tutuianu Raluca , Popescu Laura , Preda Mihai , Rosca Ana-Maria , Piticescu Roxana , Burlacu Alexandrina
Published: October 2017

Nanoparticles (NPs) have a high potential for biological applications as they can be used as carriers for the controlled release of bioactive factors. Here we focused on poly(ethylenimine) (PEI)-coated iron oxide hybrid NPs obtained by hydrothermal synthesis in high pressure conditions and evaluated their behavior in culture medium in the presence or absence of cells, as well as their ability to incorporate antitumor drug cisplatin. Our results showed that the hydrothermal conditions used for Fe-PEI NPs synthesis allowed the incorporation of cisplatin, which even increased its anti-tumor effects. Furthermore, the commonly occurring phenomenon of NPs aggregation in culture medium was exploited for further entrapment of other active molecules, such as the fluorescent dye DiI and valinomycin. The molecules bound to NPs during synthesis or during aggregation process were delivered inside various cells after in vitro and in vivo direct contact between cells and NPs and their biological activity was preserved, thus supporting the therapeutic value of Fe-PEI NPs as drug delivery tools.
Hierarchical AuNPs-Loaded Fe3O4/Polymers Nanocomposites Constructed by Electrospinning with Enhanced and Magnetically Recyclable Catalytic Capacities
Authors: Guo Rong , Jiao Tifeng , Xing Ruirui , Chen Yan , Guo Wanchun , Zhou Jingxin , Zhang Lexin , Peng Qiuming
Published: October 2017

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have attracted widespread attention for their excellent catalytic activity, as well as their unusual physical and chemical properties. The main challenges come from the agglomeration and time-consuming separation of gold nanoparticles, which have greatly baffled the development and application in liquid phase selective reduction. To solve these problems, we propose the preparation of polyvinyl alcohol(PVA)/poly(acrylic acid)(PAA)/Fe3O4 nanocomposites with loaded AuNPs. The obtained PVA/PAA/Fe3O4 composite membrane by electrospinning demonstrated high structural stability, a large specific surface area, and more active sites, which is conducive to promoting good dispersion of AuNPs on membrane surfaces. The subsequently prepared PVA/PAA/Fe3O4@AuNPs nanocomposites exhibited satisfactory nanostructures, robust thermal stability, and a favorable magnetic response for recycling. In addition, the PVA/PAA/Fe3O4@AuNPs nanocomposites showed a remarkable catalytic capacity in the catalytic reduction of p-nitrophenol and 2-nitroaniline solutions. In addition, the regeneration studies toward p-nitrophenol for different consecutive cycles demonstrate that the as-prepared PVA/PAA/Fe3O4@AuNPs nanocomposites have outstanding stability and recycling in catalytic reduction.
Upcycling Waste Lard Oil into Vertical Graphene Sheets by Inductively Coupled Plasma Assisted Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Wu Angjian , Li Xiaodong , Yang Jian , Du Changming , Shen Wangjun , Yan Jianhua
Published: October 2017

Vertical graphene (VG) sheets were single-step synthesized via inductively coupled plasma (ICP)-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) using waste lard oil as a sustainable and economical carbon source. Interweaved few-layer VG sheets, H2, and other hydrocarbon gases were obtained after the decomposition of waste lard oil. The influence of parameters such as temperature, gas proportion, ICP power was investigated to tune the nanostructures of obtained VG, which indicated that a proper temperature and H2 concentration was indispensable for the synthesis of VG sheets. Rich defects of VG were formed with a high I D / I G ratio (1.29), consistent with the dense edges structure observed in electron microscopy. Additionally, the morphologies, crystalline degree, and wettability of nanostructure carbon induced by PECVD and ICP separately were comparatively analyzed. The present work demonstrated the potential of our PECVD recipe to synthesize VG from abundant natural waste oil, which paved the way to upgrade the low-value hydrocarbons into advanced carbon material.
Flavanol-Rich Cocoa Powder Interacts with Lactobacillus rhamnossus LGG to Alter the Antibody Response to Infection with the Parasitic Nematode Ascaris suum
Authors: Jang Saebyeol , Lakshman Sukla , Beshah Ethiopia , Xie Yue , Molokin Aleksey , Vinyard Bryan , Urban Joseph , Davis Cindy , Solano-Aguilar Gloria
Published: October 2017

Consumption of the probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG and flavanol-rich cocoa have purported immune modulating effects. This study compared the host response to infection with Ascaris suum in three-month-old pigs fed a standard growth diet supplemented with a vehicle control: LGG, cocoa powder (CP) or LGG + CP. Pigs were inoculated with infective A. suum eggs during Week 5 of dietary treatment and euthanized 17 days later. Lactobacillus abundance was increased in pigs fed LGG or LGG + CP. Specific anti-A. suum IgG2 antibodies were decreased (p < 0.05) in LGG + CP-fed pigs compared to pigs fed CP alone. Pigs fed LGG had significantly reduced expression (p < 0.05) of Eosinophil peroxidase (EPX), Interleukin 13 (IL-13), Eotaxin 3 (CCL26), Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), TLR4, and TLR9 and Interleukin-1Beta (IL1B) in the tracheal-bronchial lymph node (TBLN) independent of CP treatment. These results suggested that feeding LGG significantly reduced the localized prototypical Th2-related markers of infection with A. suum in the TBLN. Although feeding CP does not appear to affect the A. suum-induced Th2-associated cytokine response, feeding LGG + CP reduced anti-A. suum antibodies and delayed intestinal expulsion of parasitic larvae from the intestine.
Reply to Kern, C. The Difficulty of Measuring the Absorption of Scattered Sunlight by H2O and CO2 in Volcanic Plumes: A Comment on Pering, et al. “A Novel and Inexpensive Method for Measuring Volcanic Plume Water Fluxes at High Temporal Resolution”, Remote Sens. 2017, 9, 146
Authors: Pering Tom , McGonigle Andrew , Tamburello Giancarlo , Aiuppa Alessandro , Bitetto Marcello , Rubino Cosimo , Wilkes Thomas
Published: October 2017

We would like to thank our colleague, Christoph Kern, for his comment [1] on our recent paper [2], which provides a valuable adjunct to that published piece [...]
A High Stability Time Difference Readout Technique of RTD-Fluxgate Sensors
Authors: Pang Na , Cheng Defu , Wang Yanzhang
Published: October 2017

The performance of Residence Times Difference (RTD)-fluxgate sensors is closely related to the time difference readout technique. The noise of the induction signal affects the quality of the output signal of the following circuit and the time difference detection, so the stability of the sensor is limited. Based on the analysis of the uncertainty of the RTD-fluxgate using the Bidirectional Magnetic Saturation Time Difference (BMSTD) readout scheme, the relationship between the saturation state of the magnetic core and the target (DC) magnetic field is studied in this article. It is proposed that combining the excitation and induction signals can provide the Negative Magnetic Saturation Time (NMST), which is a detection quantity used to measure the target magnetic field. Also, a mathematical model of output response between NMST and the target magnetic field is established, which analyzes the output NMST and sensitivity of the RTD-fluxgate sensor under different excitation conditions and is compared to the BMSTD readout scheme. The experiment results indicate that this technique can effectively reduce the noise influence. The fluctuation of time difference is less than ±0.1 μs in a target magnetic field range of ±5 × 104 nT. The accuracy and stability of the sensor are improved, so the RTD-fluxgate using the readout technique of high stability time difference is suitable for detecting weak magnetic fields.
Changes, Problems, and Challenges in Swedish Spatial Planning—An Analysis of Power Dynamics
Authors: Koglin Till , Pettersson Fredrik
Published: October 2017

During the past few decades, the Swedish spatial planning system has experienced numerous problems and challenges. In particular, there have been changes in legislation and an increased neoliberalisation of planning that gives private actors a larger influence over the planning processes in Sweden. In this article, we analyse these changes through the lenses of collaborative and neoliberal planning in order to illuminate the shifting power relations within spatial planning in Sweden. We analyse the changes of power relations from three dimensions of power based on interviews with different kinds of planners throughout Sweden. We show that power relations in the Swedish spatial planning system have shifted and that neoliberalisation and an increased focus on collaborative planning approaches have made spatial planning more complex in recent decades. This has led to a change of role for planners form actual planners to collaborators. We conclude that market-oriented planning (neoliberal planning) and collaborative planning have made it more difficult for spatial planners in Sweden to work towards sustainable urban futures.
Reversible Dual-Image-Based Hiding Scheme Using Block Folding Technique
Authors: Lu Tzu-Chuen , Leng Hui-Shih
Published: October 2017

The concept of a dual-image based scheme in information sharing consists of concealing secret messages in two cover images; only someone who has both stego-images can extract the secret messages. In 2015, Lu et al. proposed a center-folding strategy where each secret symbol is folded into the reduced digit to reduce the distortion of the stego-image. Then, in 2016, Lu et al. used a frequency-based encoding strategy to reduce the distortion of the frequency of occurrence of the maximum absolute value. Because the folding strategy can obviously reduce the value, the proposed scheme includes the folding operation twice to further decrease the reduced digit. We use a frequency-based encoding strategy to encode a secret message and then use the block folding technique by performing the center-folding operation twice to embed secret messages. An indicator is needed to identify the sequence number of the folding operation. The proposed scheme collects several indicators to produce a combined code and hides the code in a pixel to reduce the size of the indicators. The experimental results show that the proposed method can achieve higher image quality under the same embedding rate or higher payload, which is better than other methods.