bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Powder metallurgy in Belarus and global development trends
Authors: Vityaz P. A. , Ilyuschenko A. F. , Savich V. V.
Published: March 2019

The analysis of trends and prospects for the development of the industry on the materials of European and world congresses of powder metallurgy, publications in leading specialized foreign publications was carried out. The steady growth of the production of powder construction parts for the automotive industry, including using assembly technology during joint sintering, are noted in the developed countries. The production using MIM methods is constantly growing; micro MIM technology has emerged as a separate sub-industry, which allows manufacturing products with a mass of 0,1 g or less. HIP methods found its second wind: with them it became possible to obtain large-sized blanks from corrosion-resistant steels weighing up to 1000 kg, titanium and high-temperature alloys; the post HIPing technology is widely used to improve the quality of products obtained by additive technologies and important castings. With additive technologies, products weighing up to 100 kg are already being manufactured. The authors also formulated their own opinion about the prospects for the development of powder metallurgy in Europe and in the world, determined the development directions of the industry in Belarus and its influence on the development of world powder metallurgy. In particular, new grades of economically alloyed powder steels are developed. They make it possible to reduce the cost of mass structural parts without prejudice to their technical characteristics. For the same purpose, processes combined with hardening of sintering are optimized, and, in contrast to foreign analogues, endogas is used for cooling instead of nitrogen.
Exploring integrative research in the context of invasive alien plant management
Authors: Abrahams Brent , Sitas Nadia , Esler Karen J.
Published: March 2019

Addressing complex challenges facing social-ecological systems (SES) requires the integration of knowledge from a diversity of disciplines and stakeholders. This requirement has resulted in the establishment of many integrative research programmes, both globally and locally, aimed at coproducing knowledge relevant to solving SES challenges. However, despite the increase in integrative projects, there has been little research on the nature and extent to which these projects acknowledge and integrate information from diverse disciplines or knowledge types. In this study, we explored the extent to which the integration of different disciplines has occurred, using a case study of the South African invasive species management programme, Working for Water (WfW). Here we provide an overview of the research produced under the auspices of WfW, and how it came to be. Additionally, we assess the extent to which research associated with the programme addressed the research priorities and how these priorities relate to one another. Findings show that WfW-associated research is primarily focused on the ecological processes and impacts associated with invasive alien plants and biological control. Social science and applied research are, however, under-represented, infrequent in nature and inadequately address the research priorities set in the programme. To address these shortcomings, we recommend the development of a detailed research strategy and action plan conducive to integrative research and transdisciplinary collaboration, and relevant to solving complex SES challenges such as those associated with biological invasions.
Significance:

We provide a reference point by which we can assess research progress and guide integration of diverse knowledge systems.
The results can help guide research decision-making as it relates to invasive species management.
empirical investigation of alternative semi-supervised segmentation methodologies
Authors: Breed Douw G. , Verster Tanja
Published: March 2019

Segmentation of data for the purpose of enhancing predictive modelling is a well-established practice in the banking industry. Unsupervised and supervised approaches are the two main types of segmentation and examples of improved performance of predictive models exist for both approaches. However, both focus on a single aspect – either target separation or independent variable distribution – and combining them may deliver better results. This combination approach is called semi-supervised segmentation. Our objective was to explore four new semi-supervised segmentation techniques that may offer alternative strengths. We applied these techniques to six data sets from different domains, and compared the model performance achieved. The original semi-supervised segmentation technique was the best for two of the data sets (as measured by the improvement in validation set Gini), but others outperformed for the other four data sets.
Significance:

We propose four newly developed semi-supervised segmentation techniques that can be used as additional tools for segmenting data before fitting a logistic regression.
In all comparisons, using semi-supervised segmentation before fitting a logistic regression improved the modelling performance (as measured by the Gini coefficient on the validation data set) compared to using unsegmented logistic regression.
gender perspective on career challenges experienced by African scientists
Authors: Prozesky Heidi , Mouton Johann
Published: March 2019

Empirical knowledge of the career challenges that confront African scientists, and women scientists in particular, holds an important key to achieving future success in the science systems of the continent. In this article, we address a lack of evidence generally on the careers of scientists in Africa, by providing the first continent-wide description of the challenges they face, and how these challenges differ between women and men. Our analysis of questionnaire-survey data on approximately 5000 African scientists from 30 countries shows that women are not more challenged than men by a variety of career-related issues, with the exception of balancing work and family, which the majority of women, regardless of age and region, experience. Contrary to expectations, women are not only less likely than men to report a lack of funding as having impacted negatively on their careers, but have been more successful at raising research funding in the health sciences, social sciences and humanities. These results, as well as those from a comparison of women according to age and region, are linked to existing scholarship, which leads us to recommend priorities for future interventions aimed at effectively ensuring the equal and productive participation of women in the science systems of Africa. These priorities are addressing women’s work–family role conflict; job security among younger women scientists; and women in North African and Western African countries.
Significance:

This study is the first to describe, on a multinational scale, the career challenges that confront African scientists, and women scientists in particular.
Contrary to expectations, we found that African women scientists do not report experiencing career challenges to a larger extent than men do, and have been more successful at raising research funding in three of the six major scientific fields.
However, the findings highlight the significance of the challenge that balancing work and family poses to the majority of African women scientists.
Ostrich farmer characteristics predict conservation opportunity
Authors: Wheeler Anita , Knight Andrew T. , Difford Mark , Vetter Susanne
Published: March 2019

Environmental sustainability rests on human choice and action. Understanding these may assist in determining the factors that predict or influence an individual’s behaviour towards the environment. In South Africa, approximately 80% of the most threatened vegetation types are in the hands of the private agricultural community. In the Little Karoo, which is situated in the Succulent Karoo biodiversity hotspot, unsustainable land-use practices including ostrich flock breeding threaten this region’s lowland biodiversity. We interviewed ostrich farmers in the Oudtshoorn Basin to quantify latent variables thought to represent components of conservation opportunity: environmental attitude, conservation knowledge, conservation behaviour, and willingness to collaborate with agricultural, environmental and conservation organisations. Three groups of land managers were identified: (1) younger land managers (<31 years’ farming experience) with bigger farms (≥2050 ha) who had above-average scores for all four indicators, (2) older farmers (≥31 years’ farming experience) who had above-average scores for environmental attitude and conservation knowledge, average scores for environmental attitude, but low willingness to collaborate, and (3) a large group of younger farmers (<31 years’ farming experience) with smaller properties (<2050 ha) who had low to average scores for all four indicators. Farmers in the first two groups represent the best opportunities for conservation, although different strategies would have to be employed to engage them given the current low willingness to collaborate among older farmers. Land managers were more willing to collaborate with agricultural than conservation organisations, pointing to a need to involve agricultural organisations in championing more environmentally sustainable ostrich breeding practices.
Significance:

Achievement of biodiversity conservation targets requires stewardship in production landscapes outside protected areas, which necessitates identification of farmers who present conservation opportunity, i.e. who are willing and able to participate in conservation.
Plant biodiversity in the Little Karoo has been severely degraded through ostrich flock breeding, but ostrich farmers consider their practices to be ecologically sustainable.
In the Little Karoo, land managers with more years of farming experience, and younger farmers with larger properties, represented the greatest opportunity for interventions to promote more biodiversity-friendly ostrich farming practices.
Ortaokul Öğretmenlerinin TIMSS Sınavına İlişkin Görüşlerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: ÖZCAN Hasan , KOŞTUR Hakkı İlker
Published: March 2019

Bu
çalışmanın amacı öğretmenlerin Uluslararası Matematik ve Fen Eğilimleri
Araştırması (TIMSS -Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study)
sınavı hakkındaki görüşlerini incelemektir. TIMSS sınavının paydaşı konumunda
olan öğretmenlerin bu sınav hakkındaki bilgileri, düşünceleri, Türkiye'nin bu
sınav sonuçlarına göre dünya sıralamasındaki yeri, sınavın içeriği, sınavda
hangi alanlardan soruların sorulduğu, soruların nelerri ölçtüğü ve TIMSS
sınavında Türkiye'nin başarılı olması için sundukları önerileri ve görüşleri
önemlidir. Öğretmenlerden birçok ülkede uygulanan ve ülkelerin fen ve matematik
başarılarına göre sıralandığı TIMSS sınavı hakkında bilgi sahibi olmaları
beklenmektedir. Bu amaçla Aksaray ilinde bulunan iki farklı ortaokulda görev
yapan 15 öğretmenle yarı yapılandırılmış görüşmeler yapılmıştır. Bu
görüşmelerde katılımcıların demografik bilgi formunu doldurması sağlanmış ve
açık uçlu sorulardan oluşan TIMSS Testi Görüşme Formu uygulanmıştır.
Öğretmenlerin görüşleri incelendiğinde TIMSS sınavına dair bilgilerinin genel
anlamda yeterli olduğunu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Ayrıca çalışmada TIMSS
sınavında ülkemizin başarısının artırılması konusunda öğretmenlerin sunduğu
önerilere yer verilmiştir.
Features of the value-semantic sphere of rescuers with different levels of professional socio-psychological adaptation
Authors: Koteneva A.V. , Kobzarev S.A.
Published: March 2019

Currently, the research of personal resources of professional adaptation rescuers is socially significant, as extreme factors and activity conditions impose increased requirements for professionals, their professional and psychological training. The results of the empirical study of the features of adaptability, values and meanings of rescuers with different levels of professional socio-psychological adaptation are presented in the article. The survey involved 60 employees of the “Fire and rescue center”, all of them are men: the average age — 38.5 years; average experience — 11.7 years. The results showed that the professional adaptation success of rescuers is largely determined by the level of personal adaptive capacity, and its specific components — neuro-mental stability, communication skills, moral normativity. The material reward, spiritual satisfaction, achievements and social contacts were the most significant values for all specialists. However, the professional socio-psychological adaptation success increases if these values relate with the professional sphere of life. Existential values (acceptance of life and itself, ontological security, responsibility, death acceptance, the presence of crisis situation meaning and its concept) are the basis for both professional activities of rescuers and their adaptation to extreme conditions. At the same time, rescuers with a high level of professional socio-psychological adaptation have such characteristics as integration of life and death meanings in their crisis situation concept, acceptance of life changes, understanding of life as an opportunity to realize existential motives and meanings, ignoring death feelings and experiences.
Trust as a moderator of attitude towards ethnic diversity and acculturation expectations of the host population
Authors: Tatarko A.N. , Lepshokova Z.K. , Dubrov D.I.
Published: March 2019

We studied the role of generalized trust as a moderator of attitude towards ethnic diversity and acculturation expectations such as «integration» and «assimilation». In the process of theoretical analysis, two assumptions are made. (1) the higher the acceptance of ethnic diversity, the higher the orientation towards acculturation expectation «integration» and the lower the acculturation expectation «assimilation». (2) there is a difference in the relationship between attitudes towards ethnic diversity and acculturation expectations: in the case of negative attitudes towards ethnic diversity, people with higher trust will more prefer integration and less assimilation than people with lower trust. The sample of the study consisted of 198 Russian respondents (59 men and 139 women, mean age 24) who were born or lived more than 10 years in Moscow. Tools of research: methods of trust evaluation by T. Yamagishi [50]; questionnaire to assess the degree of acceptance of the identity of ethnic diversity [23]; an adapted method of assessing acculturation expectations by John. Berry [5]. The study confirmed the assumption that trust is a moderator of the relationship between attitudes towards ethnic diversity and acculturation expectations. The article discusses the meaning of the found moderation.
Interrelation of attachment style and communicative reactions to jealousy: sexual likeness and differences
Authors: Fourmanov I.A.
Published: March 2019

The attachment theory assumes that internal working models can affect propensity to test jealousy. Studying of sexual variability of jealousy reactions gives possibility to study attachment styles differences as the jealousy is one of the strongest experiences of the people tested in close interpersonal relations. The hypothesis about existence of sexual differences in relations of attachment styles and ways of expression of jealousy has been put forward. Techniques «The Adult Attachment Scale» and «Communicative reactions to jealousy» were used. 507 persons have taken part in research (242 men, 265 women). Without dependence from sex individuals with secure attachment style distinguishes propensity to integrative communications, with dismissing attachment style — preference of compensatory actions, with the preoccupied attachment style — use of strategies of negative affective expression, distributive communications and avoiding. For individuals with fearful attachment style there is a strict sexual differentiation. In communicative reactions to jealousy considerable sexual differences are found out in individuals with various attachment styles.
Amok: Relevance of School Attacks Exploring, Causes, and Primary Prevention Possibilities
Authors: Knizhnikova S.V.
Published: March 2019

The article is devoted to the phenomenon of amok — towering rage, hatred leading to mass violence against people in public places. The study of amok in our country is updated because violence committed by students in educational institutions are becoming more frequent over the last years. It is established that amok has sociocultural and individual psychological dependence. Amok is characterized by symptoms, stages, varieties and causes of occurrence and distribution. As the relevant methodological foundation of amok study we offer a domestic conception of affect that disrupt the psyche. It is proved that the study of amok cases requires the identification of possible psyche pathologies of a person who committed an attack, his individual properties of mental processes which are responsible for self-regulation, as well as specifics of personal orientation and social experience. Such amok factors as social exclusion (shut-out from the reference group) and media violence are considered. The article describes some directions to minimize the damage and potential areas of primary psychological-pedagogical amok prevention.
Mobil Destekli Dil Öğrenmede Podcast Kullanımı: Öğretici Merkezli Yoğun Dinleme ve Mobil Kapsamlı Dinleme
Authors: ŞENDAĞ Serkan , GEDİK Nuray , CANER Mustafa , TOKER Sacip
Published: March 2019

Mobil Destekli
Dil Öğrenme (MODDÖ)’nin zamandan ve mekandan bağımsız esnek yapısının öğrenmeyi
destekleyeceği ileri sürülmektedir. Bu bağlamda, bu çalışmanın amacı (MODDÖ)’nün
mobil ortamda kapsamlı-dinleme (extensive-listening) ile birlikte işe
koşulduğunda öğretici-merkezli ve yoğun-dinlemenin (intensive-listening)
uygulandığı gruba göre etkililiğini araştırmaktır. Çalışmada denkleştirilmemiş-grup
yarı-deneysel araştırma deseninden yararlanılarak “öğretici-merkezli
yoğun-dinleme (N=29)” ve “mobil kapsamlı-dinleme (N=30)” olmak üzere iki farklı
yabancı dil olarak İngilizce dil becerisi geliştirme yöntemi karşılaşmıştır. Yapılan
deneyde, katılımcıların dinleme, konuşma ve eleştirel düşünme becerileri ile dinleme
stratejilerini geliştirmede hangi yöntemin daha etkili olduğu toplanan nicel
veriler ile ortaya çıkartılmaya çalışılmıştır. Ayrıca her iki gruptaki
katılımcıların sürece yönelik görüşleri yarı yapılandırmış görüşme formları
kullanılarak alınmış ve değerlendirilmiştir. Elde edilen bulgulara göre
öğretici-merkezli yoğun-dinlemenin katılımcıların dinleme becerilerini
geliştirmede mobil kapsamlı-dinlemeye göre daha olumlu ve istatistiksel açıdan
önemli bir etkisinin olduğu diğer değişkenler açısından gruplar arasında
istatistiksel açıdan anlamlı bir değişmenin olmadığı belirlenmiştir. Çalışma
bağlamındaki sınırlılıklar göz önünde bulundurularak öğretici-merkezli yoğun-dinlemenin
mobil kapsamlı-dinlemeye göre yabancı dil olarak İngilizce dinleme becerilerini
artırmada daha etkili olduğu sonucuna varılmıştır.
Polacy, Rosjanie i Niemcy wobec wartości. Hierarchia i sposoby rozumienia jednostek aksjologicznych
Authors: Rodziewicz Barbara Izabela
Published: March 2019

W artykule omówiono rezultaty zakrojonych na szeroką skalę badań nad systemem wartości Polaków, Rosjan i Niemców. Na podstawie wyników tzw. testu werbalnych skojarzeń autorka dokonuje porównania i zhierarchizowania wartości składających się na świadomość językową Polaków, Rosjan i Niemców, a także wyjawia aksjologiczne jądro w systemach ich wartości oraz kryjące się za nimi postawy i preferencje aksjologiczne. Autorka dowodzi również, iż napełnienie treściowe jednostek aksjologicznych znacznie wykracza poza ramy definicyjne charakteryzowanych pojęć. Badania wydają się interesujące również w kontekście ocen kondycji moralnej społeczeństw europejskich i podnoszonych w ostatnim czasie, zwłaszcza przez socjologów, kwestii erozji czy wręcz abstynencji aksjologicznej.
Grzech Kaina. Nowe konteksty interpretacyjne
Authors: Czaja Dariusz
Published: March 2019

Zamierzeniem autora jest nowa interpretacja biblijnej historii Kaina i Abla. Autor uznaje perykopę z Genesis za tekst niejednoznaczny, wymagający nowej interpretacji antropologicznej. Sugeruje, że sens historii Kaina i Abla wykracza poza znane interpretacje: Jacka Filka Ponura twarz Kaina (interpretacja filozoficzna), Alana Aycocka Piętno Kaina (wykładnia antropologiczna) oraz Jose Saramago Kain (ateistyczny punkt widzenia). Prezentuje jej nową wykładnię, którą nazywa misteryjną. Stara się znaleźć odpowiedzi na pytania: Dlaczego Kain zabił? Czy mógł nie zabić? Dlaczego Pan przyjął ofiarę Abla, a nie przyjął ofiary Kaina? Dlaczego Bóg kładzie na nim znak ochronny? I kim w ogóle jest postać Kaina?

Podstawą zaprezentowanego w artykule nowego spojrzenia na grzech Kaina jest interpretacja zawarta w pracy Tajemnica Kaina teologa Michała Klingera. Autor przedstawia nowe konteksty rozumienia istoty kainowego przewinienia. Dochodzi do wniosku, że biblijna opowieść o bratobójcy zawiera w sobie przesłanie o niejasności wyroku boskiego i o uniwersalizmie zła, ideę, że nieodłącznym elementem człowieczeństwa jest nie tylko dobro, ale również zło. Kain jest podobny do grzeszników ewangelicznych obecnych w życiu Chrystusa i dostępujących przebaczenia i zbawienia.
Wizerunek o. Józefa Jarzębowskiego (1897–1964) – pedagoga, żołnierza, księdza, uczonego, poety, kreowany na łamach polskich czasopism emigracyjnych
Authors: Chwastyk-Kowalczyk Jolanta
Published: March 2019

W artykule omówiono działalność wielkiego wizjonera, przyjaciela dzieci i młodzieży, cenionego pedagoga, marianina o. Józefa Jarzębowskiego (1897–1964). Ojciec J. Jarzębowski brał czynny udział w wojnie bolszewickiej 1920 roku. Po upadku Warszawy w 1939 r. przedarł się na Litwę, a następnie przez Syberię, Japonię, USA dotarł do Meksyku. Tam w polskim osiedlu Santa Rosa od połowy 1945 r. pełnił funkcję dyrektora Polskiego Gimnazjum Ogólnokształcącego. Następnie po krótkim pobycie w Rzymie został skierowany w latach 50. XX w. do Wielkiej Brytanii, by stworzyć od podstaw w Fawley Court polską szkołę wyznaniową dla chłopców. Szkołę w 1986 r. przekształcono w polsko-angielski ośrodek edukacyjny. Od 2008 r. do czasów współczesnych trwa walka byłych wychowanków skupionych wokół Fawley Court Old Boys Network pod przewodnictwem Mirosława Malevskiego, ich rodziców oraz wszystkich Polaków o to unikatowe miejsce, które stworzyli wspólnymi siłami i zasobami finansowymi, po tym jak w 2012 r. posiadłość została bezprawnie sprzedana przez zarządzających placówką o. marianów.
Fabrication and investigation of polymer-based carbon composite as gas diffusion layer of proton exchange membrane of fuel cells
Authors: Taherian 1 Reza , Ghorbani 1 Mohammad Matboo , Nasr 2 Mohammad , Kiahosseini 3 Seyed Rahim
Published: March 2019

Carbon paper is one of the most important component in polymer electrolyte PEM fuel cells. In this research, we report two methods of manufacturing carbon papers that do not need the steps of carbonization and graphitization are common steps in carbon paper. At first method (mixing method), the short carbon fibers have a random distribution in the composite and in the second method (fabric method), the long carbon fibers are oriented in planar configuration .In order to investigate on the properties, the effect of paper thickness and expanded graphite value have been considered and compared with Toray carbon paper. The characterization is performed by scanning electron microscope, maximum pore size, mean pore size, permeability, electrical conductivity, flexibility, and performance (I-V) curve. The results show that mixing method resulting in a higher electrical conductivity, pore size, and permeability, as well as I-V curve similar to Toray paper. In addition, the cost estimates and flexibility test show that both fabric and mixing methods results in a much lower cost, due to removing the graphitization and carbonization steps, and more flexible samples in comparison to Toray paper.
The structure and properties of laser seam stepper system (LSS) welded the low alloy high strength steel DOCOL 1200M with martensitic structure
Authors: Górka 1 Jacek , Ozgowicz 2 Andrzej
Published: March 2019

This paper will present the influence of joining process parameters on the structure and properties of overlapped welded joints of 1.8 mm DOCOL 1200M steel. The obtained welded joints were subjected to micro- and macroscopic metallographic examination and hardness measurement. The visual inspections and non-destructive testing made it possible to develop the field of welding parameters to allow obtaining full penetration joints (depending on requirements) or partial penetration joints. For present welding parameters, i.e. feed rate and weld length, which are constant, the actual length of weld is determined by welding frequency. In each case, the microscopic examinations revealed martensitic structure in the weld area, and with the increase in linear welding energy the size of martensite needles became larger, especially in relation to the base material. In HAZ, the martensitic structure is tempered. It has been shown that with appropriately selected parameters the Laser SEAM Stepper method is suitable for welding the DOCOL 1200M steel. With the increase in welding power, the penetration depth increases.
The effect of foaming agent on mechanical and physical properties of Polypropylene
Authors: CAKIR 1 SEDEF , AYCICEK 1 MUHAMMED , ALTUN 2 EDIZ , Akinci 1 Akin
Published: March 2019

In this study, Polypropylene (PP) foam materials were used with injection parameters such as melting, molding and injection temperatures. To produce foam materials, chemical foaming agents were used, and added to polymer materials as 1wt.%, 1.5wt.%, 2wt.%, 2.5wt.%, 3wt.%. The mechanical properties of foam samples were determined based on the parameters. Cell morphology characterization such as cell diameter, cell count, skin layer thickness and cell density, and mechanical properties such as tensile and impact strength of polymer foams were examined.Generally, the closed-cell foam structure was obtained. The most important parameters affecting the cell morphology have been injection pressure, melt temperature and amount of foaming agent. With increasing the amount of foaming agent, cell density increased, foam density and mechanical properties decreased.
The effect of hydrodynamic cavitation on performance of the alkaline aluminosilicate coatings for metal structures
Authors: GUZII 1 Sergii , KRIVENKO 1 Pavel
Published: March 2019

Load-bearing metal structures working in atmospheric conditions are exposed to corrosion. Known-in-the art paint-and-lacquer protective coatings can provide protection of metal for rather short period of time (5…10 years). These structures can be effectively protected by more advanced coatings of new generation, namely: alkaline aluminosilicate binder-based coatings of barrier type. These binders differ from the known-in-the-art binding materials by formation in their hydration products of zeolite-like minerals and feldspathoids. The paper discusses principles laid down in formulating the binder composition in the (хК, уNa)2OAl2O3nSiO2mH2O system, target synthesis of hydration products of the binder matrix under influence of dynamic of the binder matrix in cavitation, optimal parameter order to synthesis of cavitation treatment aimed at nanostructuring of zeolite-like and hydromica phases after solidification. These coatings exhibit high corrosion resistance, high adhesion to metal substrate and durability results of restoration works that had been carried out in December 2010 of the Big Bell Tower of the Kiev Petchersk Lavra in order to protect corroded metal surfaces by applying the aluminosilicate binder-based coatings, the major constituent (binder) of which was represented by (0.72Na2O+0.28K2O)1.5Al2O3(4.56)SiO217.5H2O are discussed in details. In 2016, after 6 years of service in high humidity conditions and other aggressive exposures, the coated metal structures were examined and no sign of corrosion of metal substrate and damage of the applied coating was found.
Metallic nanoformulations: Green synthetic approach for advanced drug delivery
Authors: Usmani 1 Afreen , Dash 2 Pragyandip P , Mishra 1 Anuradha
Published: March 2019

An important reason for investigation using plants for nanotechnological research is due to their easy availability as well as applications in various ailments. Silver nanoformulation can be synthesized using whole plant extract or bioactive of that particular plant. In addition, plant extracts or bioactive of the plant may act both as reducing agents and stabilizing agents in the synthesis process of nanoformulation. The therapeutic effect of plant extract is hindered because of its instability, poor solubility, and low bioavailability. So, nowadays, researches have been carried out for improving all these properties including sustainability through silver nanotechnological approach. The major advantage of green synthesis using plant extracts is that, organic solvents and other excipients are not used because the plant phytochemicals are involved directly in the reduction of the ions and formation of silver nanoparticles. The present review provides an updated knowledge on mechanism of green synthesis of silver nanoparticle and their mechanism of action as antibacterial and anticancer activities.
Effects of Shielding Gas Pureness on Quality of Orbital TIG Welded Austenitic Stainless-Steel Joints
Authors: Górka Jacek , Wyględacz Bernard , Żuk Marcin
Published: March 2019

Aim of this research was determination of effects of shielding and backing gas pureness on quality of welded joints produced from austenitic stainless-steel grade X5CrNi18-10 (1.4301) pipes Ø 50.8 x 1.5 mm by orbital TIG welding without use of additional material. In the case of stainless steel, it is of importance not only to prepare shielding of the molten metal pool but as well protection of welded joint root from oxygen, which causes formation of colorful oxide layers. Presence of oxidized layer primarily decreases corrosion resistance of stainless-steel. Performed examination included: chemical composition of welded join material, delta ferrite testing, non-destructive joint testing, visual testing with discoloration assessment from face and root side (acc. to Danish Force Technology Institute report 93.34 and American ASME BPE-2012 norm), radiographic testing, destructive welded joint testing. Metallurgical shielding of the welded joint face was produced with Argon 5.0 pure, with a flow rate of 8 dm3/min. Root of welded joint was at first protected with Argon 5.0 pure, then argon-atmospheric air mixtures were used. Backing gas flow rate was set to achieve a relative pressure of 300 Pa. Quantity of residual oxygen in gas mixture was selected based on Danish Force Technology Institute report 93.34.
Comparative Analysis of Experimental Pharmacokinetics of New Neurotropic Peptides
Authors: Boyko S.S. , Zherdev V.P. , Shevchenko R.V. , Gribakina O.G.
Published: March 2019

Experimental pharmacokinetics of new pharmacologically active peptides, modified analogues of endogenous neuropeptides, has been investigated in rats and rabbits. The study icluded 3 new drugs: (i) the nootropic drug noopept (phenylacetyl-prolyl-glycine ethyl ester); (ii) dilept (N-caproyl-L-prolyl-L-tyrosine methyl ester) – the antipsychotic with positive mnemotropic action; (iii) compound GB-115 – selective anxiolytic (phenylhexanoyl-prolyl-tryptophan amide). Differences in pharmacokinetics and biotransformation of the studied drugs depended on their structural features. The ether derivatives noopept and dilept underwent intensive metabolism by rat gastrointestinal esterases and peptidases with the formation of active metabolites. Being an amide, the compound GB-115 was more resistant to the enzymatic effects of peptidases and was detected for a longer period in the blood of experimental animals. In rabbits the studied compounds were less exposed to the enzymatic action by gastrointestinal peptidases, and were detected plasma of rabbits for a longer period. The higher stability of the compounds studied in rabbits may be attributed not only to the structural features of the studied dipeptides, but also to differences in the activity of the enzymatic systems of the gastrointestinal tract participating in their metabolism, as well as differences in the rate of hepatic and renal blood flow in rats and rabbits.
Evolution of argoma shrubland (Ulex gallii Planch.) after clearing and burning treatments in Sierra de Aralar and Belate (Navarra)
Authors: Gómez D. , Aguirre A.J. , Lizaur X. , Lorda M. , Remón J.L.
Published: March 2019

Shrub encroachment is considered one of the greatest threats in the conservation of pastures, especially in abandoned territories and territories with low stocking density. However, in the Navarra Pyrenees and Basque mountains, with a high stocking density maintained during the last decades, the expansion of argoma shrubland (Ulex gallii), shows that grazing is not enough for its control and requires evaluating measures of clearing. To evaluate the efficiency of the burning and the mechanical clearing (with two treatments: at ground level and 10 cm above ground) in the control of the shrub, these treatments were applied in different plots of encroached grasslands in two pastoral territories (Sierra de Aralar and Belate). After the burning and clearing, the evolution of the shrub was compared in the cleared plots closed to grazing and in their replicas open to it. The results showed differences between the different treatments in both territories that may be related to the initial coverage of the shrubland. In general, burning was less effective in controlling shrubland and allowed a greater resprout than mechanical clearing. No significant differences were found between the two types of mechanical clearing (at ground level and at 10 cm above ground). Finally, grazing caused a delay in the recovery of the shrub in all casesbut it was not able to eliminate the shrubs completely. From the field observations, the opinions of the farmers and the results of similar experiences, some measures for grassland management were collected and discussed to correct or complement the clearing treatments in order to increase their efficiency.
Large adnexal mass: is laparoscopic surgery a safe option?
Authors: Talwar Prathap , Talwar Karishma , C. A. Pranidha Shree
Published: March 2019

Background: Laparoscopic surgery is regarded as the gold standard for management of adnexal tumours due to many advantages. Currently, the exact size of the adnexal tumour contraindicating laparoscopic management has not been clearly defined. Some studies suggest laparotomy for the treatment of adnexal tumours larger than 8 to 10 cm. Risk of malignancy increases with large cysts. Issues with operation of huge adnexal masses are limited surgical field, difficulty in inserting trocars and removing the specimen without rupture. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and surgical outcomes of laparoscopic surgery for large adnexal masses.Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, JSS Medical College, Mysuru.Results: 35 patients with large adnexal masses, which were thought to be benign, were subjected to laparoscopic surgery. Mean diameter of masses as per the pre-operative ultrasound measurements was 12.2cm (range: 10.1-20.4cm). The mean operative time was 51.15minutes, estimated blood loss was 85.4ml, duration of postoperative hospital stay was 2.8 days. Serous cystadenoma was the most common histopathological finding. However, one case of borderline tumour was found.Conclusions: The potential risk of malignancy is the most important limiting factor for laparoscopic management of large ovarian cysts. Therefore, it is necessary to establish risk profiles of patients with adnexal masses in order to benefit from minimally invasive surgery wherever possible. The current study supports laparoscopic management of large ovarian cysts as a technically feasible method if proper case selection is made.
Study of knowledge, attitude and practices of contraception in breast-feeding mothers
Authors: Shawl Aiyleen Shiza , Thobbi Vidya
Published: March 2019

Background: In India, as in many other countries, postpartum family planning is usually initiated after 6 weeks postpartum. Early resumption of sexual activity coupled with early and unpredictable ovulation leads to many unwanted pregnancies in the first year postpartum. Increase in hospital deliveries provides an excellent opportunity to sensitize women and provide effective contraception. Hence the present study was done at our tertiary care centre to assess the knowledge, attitude, practice regarding contraception and to find out the relationship between knowledge and attitude regarding contraception among breast feeding mothers.Methods: A hospital based observational study. The patients admitted at our tertiary care centre in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.Results: Majority of the participants (72%) were in the age group of 21-25 years. 21.2% of the study group was educated up to primary level while 33.2% and 18.4% of the participants studied till SSC and HSC respectively. Majority of participants were from middle class (50%) followed by lower class (36.4%) and upper class (13.6%). 69.6% participants resided in rural areas while 30.4% participants were from urban areas. It was observed that age, education and mode of delivery were the significant factors.Conclusions: As the government gives incentives to couples who opt for permanent sterilization, which is an effective drive, it should also give incentives to couples who follow temporary methods and delay pregnancies. Couples who adopt one child norm or 2 children norm should be encouraged by benefits either in the form of children’s education or health insurance.
Selective estrogen receptor modulator: efficacy in abnormal uterine bleeding in perimenopausal women
Authors: Mani Ankita , Sharma Kanchan , Kumar Arun , Talukdar R. K.
Published: March 2019

Background: Abnormal uterine bleeding affects 50% women of perimenopausal age group. The use of ormeloxifene (SERMS) in management of AUB is well known. The objective of the present study was aimed to see the effects of ormeloxifene on different types of endometrium.in the medical management of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB).Methods: It was Prospective, interventional study. A total of 90 women who attended Outpatient Gynaecology Department, Guwahati with complain of AUB in perimenopausal age group (37-48) were prescribed 60mg ormeloxifene twice weekly for 3 months followed by once weekly for next 3 months after preliminary D and C.Results: Ormeloxifene was found to be more effective in reducing PBAC score and ET in patients with proliferative and secretory endometrium The reduction in mean PBAC score with ormeloxifene (175.3 to 20.93)(p value 0.0001) and ET (9.6 to 2.9 mm) (p value 0.0001) in proliferative endometrium, (179.2 to 14.8 (p value 0.0001) ) and ET 11.1 to 1.9 mm (p value 0.0003)in secretory endometrium was observed after 6 months. However, it was found not to be effective in reducing PBAC score and ET in patients with atrophic endometrium. Change in PBAC SCORE from 176.4 to 150.8 (p value 0.08) and in ET from 2.8 to 2.1mm( p value 0.3) was observed. No major side effects were reported.Conclusions: Ormeloxifene is effective in AUB with proliferative and secretory endometrium.
Incidence and risk factors of intra uterine fetal death: a retrospective study at a tertiary care centre in Kashmir, India
Authors: Ara Shabnam , Nisar Shazia , Bashir Umrazia
Published: March 2019

Background: Intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) is the tragic event contributing to high perinatal mortality in developing countries. So many risk factors have been seen associated with IUFD that can be prevented with better antenatal care and timely detection at the earliest so that the prevalence can be decreased. This study was done to identify the risk factors associated with IUFD.Methods: This is a retrospective study from done from March 2017 to March 2018 at skims maternity hospital. IUFD was defined as fetal death beyond 20 weeks of gestation. Records were analyzed and data was compiled.Results: In our study there were total of 2500 deliveries out of which 70 were IUFD. Incidence was 28 per 1000 live births. It was found more common in the age group of 20-29 year (65.71%)  %). Preeclampsia was the risk factor in 17.14% of cases , followed by abruption in 11.42% followed by placenta previa in 7.14% of cases. However, 20% of the cases had unidentified risk factor.Conclusions: Present study was an effort to compile common risk factors associated with IUFD at tertiary centre of Kashmir.
Epidemiological determinants and clinical profile of eclampsia: a case control study
Authors: De Ritam , Dutta Amit
Published: March 2019

Background: The incidence of eclampsia has reduced considerably in the developing countries due to good antenatal care and increased awareness within the population. To determine the magnitude of the problem, to assess trends and to identify risk factors and risk groups, it is worthwhile to periodically review this problem.Methods: A study using one control for each case of eclampsia was conducted among women who were admitted at Burdwan Medical College and Hospital between July 2014 and June 2015. Cases were women with a confirmed diagnosis of eclampsia. Eclampsia cases were identified by daily monitoring of all new admissions to Eclampsia ward of Burdwan Medical College and hospital. After strict exclusion criteria, a total of 500 eclampsia cases were studied along with same number of controls for identifying the epidemiological determinants.Results: Maternal age at extremes (<20 and >30 years) was identified as a risk factor of eclampsia. Nulliparity has been identified as a risk factor for eclampsia in present study. About 74.6% mothers were nulliparous. Most of the patients 66.6% were admitted during the antenatal period i.e. presented with antenatal eclampsia. 62.2% of them were at between 34-37weeks of gestational age during admission.Conclusions: Authors observed increased eclampsia risk among women with a prior history of pregnancies complicated by hypertensive disorders. Positive personal histories of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and family history of hypertensive disorders are well known risk factors of eclampsia. Our findings point to public health and clinical measures that may be taken to potentially attenuate the incidence of eclampsia and mitigate associated maternal-fetal complications resulting from the disorder.
Epidemiological study on body mass index distribution and health awareness among women at an urban tertiary care centre of north India
Authors: Datta Kamna , Gupta Pooja , Singh Pushpa
Published: March 2019

Background: Obesity has become a new worldwide health problem and is gradually moving towards an epidemic. overweight and obesity implies an abnormal excessive fat accumulation that poses health risk. According to National Family Health Survey-4, prevalence of obesity has doubled in country over the last decade. Asian Indians stand at higher risk for development of obesity related non-communicable diseases at lower body mass index levels.Methods: It was an observational interpretive study carried on 1000 randomly selected women over 3 months in a tertiary center of urban northern India. BMI was obtained by dividing weight in kilograms and height in meters squares. Patients were enquired about any menstrual complains, known comorbidities, awareness of obesity in terms of its cause and effects, about weight reduction and benefits of exercise and its practice and details noted in a preformed performa. No prior intervention or health education was given to avoid bias.Results: Out of 1000 women, mean BMI was found to be 31.85±8.85kg/m2. BMI classification (Asian standards) stated that 8.1% were overweight and 78% of patients were pre obese and obese (maximum in age of 21-40 years). Menstrual complaints were present among 39% of overweight and obese groups. Among comorbidities, hypothyroidism was found to be maximum being 9.5% in the obese group, followed by hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Only 26.3% of obese women were aware of the factors causing obesity. Knowledge of exercise benefits was grossly limited, with only one fourth of the pre obese and obese population being aware of it.Conclusions: Rising obesity in Indian women needs measures for prevention. Though there is knowledge of the cure among Indian females but there is limited ability to implement the same. Health education of women regarding obesity related comorbidities along with the benefits of weight loss with exercises should be promoted strongly.
Rising trends of caesarean section: a retrospective study
Authors: Sethi Namrata , Sharma Sushma P.
Published: March 2019

Background: The indications of Caesarean Section (CS) have been changing over time, along with a visible, much talked about rise in the rate. Without a doubt, C-sections can effectively prevent maternal and perinatal mortality when done for a medical indication. However, little is researched about the extent of maternal indications and the fetal outcomes of C-sections.Methods: Data of January to March 2012 and January to March 2017 was obtained by detailed study of the patient files from the Medical Records Department of the hospital. A predesigned proforma was used to record the relevant information. Data was analysed using standard statistical methods.Results: Cephalo pelvic disproportion (CPD) and fetal distress (FD) remained the major causes of CS in both the groups, being 50.4% in group2012 and 60.5% in group2017. Trends of CS due to maternal demand and tubal ligations are emerging. Though the rise in CS was not significant in the 5 year period having gone up from 45.41% to 48.81%, there was significant increase in deliveries without complications, having jumped up from 74.8% to 88.3%.Conclusions: As per the study, there was non-significant rise in the incidence of C-sections in the time period of study. Major contributory factors observed were CPD and FD, in which it is imperative to perform C-sections.
Hydralazine versus Labetalol for acute control of blood pressure in patients with severe pre-eclampsia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gaur Nayanika , Kathuria Priyanka
Published: March 2019

Background: Authors sought to compare the effectively of intravenous hydralazine and intravenous labetalol in controlling acute rise in blood pressure in patients with severe preeclampsia.Methods: In this double-blind randomized controlled trial, all pregnant women with sustained increase in blood pressure (BP) of 160 mmHg systolic or 110 mmHg diastolic or higher were randomized to receive intravenous (IV) hydralazine 5 mg (max. 4 doses) or IV labetalol in escalating doses of 20mg, 40mg, 80mg, 80mg to achieve target blood pressure of 150 mmHg systolic and 100 mmHg diastolic or lower. The primary objective of the study was to assess the time taken to control blood pressure. Secondary agendas were the number of repeat doses required and other side effect profile.Results: In the study duration of September 2015 to September 2017, authors enrolled 60 participants for our trial. The median time taken to achieve the target blood pressure was 22.4 minutes in both the groups. Close to half of the participants did not require repeat doses (46.66% with labetalol and 50% with hydralazine). No serious maternal or foetal side effects were noted during the study. Statistical tests were performed using SPSS for Windows version 22.Conclusions: As operated in the study, the efficacy of hydralazine and labetalol to control the acute rise in blood pressure is similar.