bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analysis of the Determinants of Systemic Banking Crises in Southeast European Countries
Authors: Asanović Željka
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this paper is to determine potential indicators of systemic banking crises in five Southeast European countries. Although signal horizon in the literature usually implies a period of 12 months before and 12 months after a crisis outbreak, models in this paper imply a 24-month pre-crisis period. Probability of a banking crisis occurrence is calculated using logit regression. Results have shown that banking system indicators have higher impact on probability of systemic banking crisis occurrence compared to macroeconomic indicators, and that the banking systems of these countries are significantly exposed to global trends.
Fourier Sine Transform Method for Solving the Cerrutti Problem of the Elastic Half Plane in Plane Strain
Authors: Ike Charles Chinwuba
Published: May 2018

The Fourier sine transform method was implemented in this study to obtain general solutions for stress and displacement fields in homogeneous, isotropic, linear elastic soil of semi-infinite extent subject to a point load applied tangentially at a point considered the origin of the half plane. The study adopted a stress based formulation of the elasticity problem. Fourier transformation of the biharmonic stress compatibility equation was done to obtain bounded stress functions for the elastic half plane problem. Stresses and boundary conditions expressed in terms of the Boussinesq-Papkovich potential functions were transformed using Fourier sine transforms. Boundary conditions were used to obtain the unknown constants of the stress functions for the Cerrutti problem considered; and the complete determination of the stress fields in the Fourier transform space. Inversion of the Fourier sine transforms for the stresses yielded the general expressions for the stresses in the physical domain space variables. The strain fields were obtained from the kinematic relations. The displacement fields were obtained by integration of the strain-displacement relations. The solutions obtained were identical with solutions in literature obtained using Cerrutti stress functions.
Comparison of anteroposterior and posteroanterior projection in lumbar spine radiography
Authors: Alukic Erna , Skrk Damijan , Mekis Nejc
Published: May 2018

Background

The aim of the study was to compare patient radiation dose and image quality in planar lumbar spine radiography using the PA and AP projection in a large variety of patients of both sexes and different sizes.

Patients and methods

In the first phase data of image field size, DAP, effective dose and image quality were gathered for AP and PA projection in lumbar spine imaging of anthropomorphic phantom. In the second phase, data of BMI, image field size, diameter of the patient’s abdomen, DAP, effective dose and image quality were gathered for 100 patients of both sexes who were referred to lumbar spine radiography. The patients were divided into two groups of 50 patients, one of which was imaged using the AP projection while the other the PA projection.

Results

The study on the phantom showed no statistically significant difference in image field size, DAP and image quality. However, the calculated effective dose in the PA projection was 25% lower compared to AP projection (p =0.008). Measurements on the patients showed no statistically significant difference between the BMI and the image field size. In the PA projection, the thickness of abdomen was 10% (p < 10–3) lower, DAP 27% lower (p = 0.009) and the effective dose 53% (p < 10–3) lower than in AP projection. There was no statistically significant difference in image quality between the AP and the PA projection.

Conclusions

The study results support the use of the PA projection as the preferred method of choice in planar lumbar spine radiography.
Literature Review of the Potential Energy Savings and Retention Water from Green Roofs in Comparison with Conventional Ones
Authors: Tselekis Kyriakoulis
Published: May 2018

The objective of this study is the comparison of green roof systems with conventional isolated and non-isolated ones in order to identify the potential energy savings of green roofs and the benefits provided in comparison with the cost of construction to the buildings. The region of interest is the Watergraafsmeer area in the city of Amsterdam. The method evaluates literature reports - mostly from 2003 to 2010 - that present the advantages of green roofs. Examples in real implementation of green roofs in USA, UK and Germany, retention of rainfall and a Life Cycle Assessment from a residential construction in Madrid will be introduced, showing the energy savings from insulation and heating/cooling that can be gained. All the reports have shown a reduction in energy costs and in runoff of water. Hence, costs and retrofitting potential completes the research. The age of buildings and the absence of insulation make green roofs an ideal alternative project for the retrofit of Watergraafsmeer.
“Sentado al selado eu sorria”
Authors: Flores Livia
Published: May 2018

A partir do convite à participação na exposição Lugares do Delírio (Museu de Arte do Rio, 2017), que propôs a retomada da colaboração com Clóvis Aparecido dos Santos, o relato acompanha os trabalhos desenvolvidos com ele em exposição na galeria do Espaço Sérgio Porto (2002) e na 26ª Bienal de São Paulo (2004), apontando condições e implicações deste percurso.
Um projeto mais amplo de cidade
Authors: Valio Luciana Benetti Marques
Published: May 2018

O presente artigo propõe a reflexão sobre dois trabalhos da artista Renata Lucas, Projeto Casa de Vidro (2013) e Aqui havia um projeto de cidade (2017), com o intuito de analisar como a artista discute e fricciona seus trabalhos em relação ao espaço onde se inserem, no caso, os espaços são as obras da arquiteta Lina Bo Bardi, respectivamente, Casa de Vidro e MASP. A presente análise parte da apresentação do uso dos espaços públicos, compreendendo a obra de Lina Bo Bardi como um espaço para encontros e confrontos, e apresenta o trabalho de Renata Lucas como uma fricção a respeito da questão da urbanização da Avenida Paulista e os usos (privados) do espaço coletivo. Assim, a memória de Lina Bo Bardi é ativada no Projeto Casa de Vidro (2013) com a ênfase na questão do vidro, como material utilizado por Lina Bo Bardi, e a sua relação com a Casa/instituição. Renata Lucas ao referir-se à memória de Lina Bo Bardi considera que a arquiteta tinha um projeto civilizatório, assim, a artista, ao criar uma fricção com um tempo desconhecido, traz para o presente um fantasma de uma possível cidade.
Analisis Laju Reaksi Neutron Dalam Sel Bahan Bakar Nuklir Pada Reaktor Cepat
Authors: Martha Reni , Shafii Mohamad Ali , Afdal Afdal
Published: May 2018

Analisis laju reaksi neutron dalam sel bahan bakar nuklir pada reaktor cepat sangat penting dilakukan, karena laju reaksi fisi, serapan dan total yang merata dapat mengurangi pemuncakan daya (power peaking) yang tidak diinginkan. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode collision probability (CP) dengan pendekatan flat flux yang melibatkan proses homogenisasi sel bahan bakar nuklir. Dari hasil homogenisasi sel dapat diperoleh distribusi fluks neutron sebagai fungsi energi grup. Selanjutnya dihitung laju reaksi fisi, serapan dan total pada setiap region sel. Laju reaksi fisi mengalami penurunan di daerah energi tinggi akibat adanya peristiwa tumbukan elastik yang menyebabkan neutron lebih mudah kehilangan energy. Laju reaksi serapan berfluktuasi pada bahan bakar, sedangkan pada kelongsong dan pendingin nilainya sangat rendah yaitu kurang dari reaksi/cm3s. Laju reaksi total mempunyai nilai yang tinggi pada daerah energi tinggi yaitu rentang antara   sampai dengan  reaksi/cm3s sedangkan pada daerah energi rendah nilainya sangat kecil yaitu kurang dari  reaksi/cm3s. Kata kunci : fluks neutron, laju reaksi, reaktor cepat
Pengukuran Konsentrasi Larutan Gula Menggunakan Transduser Kapasitif
Authors: Hidayatullah Muhammad , Triyana Kuwat
Published: May 2018

Telah dilakukan penelitian tentang pengukuran konsentrasi larutan menggunakan transduser kapasitif yang bekerja berdasarkan fenomena electrical capacitive tomography (ECT). Sebelum digunakan, transduser kapasitif diverifikasi berdasarkan ASTM D.1076-02 terhadap sampel larutan getah lateks oleh Laboratorium Penguji Balai Penelitian Teknologi Karet Bogor. Jenis larutan yang diukur konsentrasinya dalam penelitian ini adalah larutan gula dengan pelarut air dengan variasi konsentrasi. Dalam pengukuran ini, digunakan konsentrasi larutan tertinggi sebagai referensi yaitu konsentrasi larutan gula 95%. Sedangkan sebagai pembanding pengukuran, digunakan konsentrasi larutan gula variasi konsentrasi dengan referensi larutan gula 80%. Untuk larutan gula dengan konsentrasi referensi 95%, diperoleh hubungan linier antara konsentrasi larutan ujinya dengan konsentrasi terukur pada alat dengan nilai koefisien korelasi sebesar 0,999. Nilai koefisien korelasi menurun menjadi 0,996 pada saat konsentrasi referensi yang digunakan 80%. Dengan demikian dapat disimpulkan bahwa transduser kapasitif mempunyai potensi yang tinggi sebagai alat alternatif untuk mengukur konsentrasi larutan gula dengan cepat tanpa preparasi sampel yang dapat digunakan oleh masyarakat dalam mengetahui kadar gula yang beredar dipasaran.Kata kunci: transduser kapasitif, electrical capacitive tomography, konsentrasi larutan.
Intimate Partner Violence and Its Under-Reporting in Pakistan
Authors: Hadi Abdul
Published: May 2018

Intimate Partner violence is not a culturally limited practice, but prevails in every country, irrespective of culture, class, and ethnicity. Violence is one of the mechanisms used by men to control and subjugate women; and is a manifestation of unequal power relationship sustained by patriarchy. Patriarchy makes violence necessary for the sake of its existence. Intimate partner violence, the most common forms of gender-based violence entails the exertion of power over a partner in an intimate relationship through a behavior that is intimidating, threatening, harassing or harmful. The spouse can be harmed physically, as well sexually, emotionally, and psychologically, the violence can occur multiple times. Intimate partner violence in Pakistan persists almost in every family because women have subjugated and vulnerable status and are generally treated as second class citizens. Generally, the occurrence of violence at home is effectively condoned and regarded it as ‘private matter’ which does not require any intervention. it is seldom recognized as a crime socially unless it takes an extreme form of murder or attempted murder which could range from driving a woman to suicide or engineering an accident (frequently the bursting of a kitchen stove). This study aims to find out the factors which precipitate Intimate partner violence in Pakistan and what are the factors which preclude the reporting of Intimate partner violence and seeking legal redress. This study has found that strict cultural and patriarchal system and values precipitate intimate partner violence and also preclude victims to report the incidences by not giving them appropriate moral, cultural and legal support.
Self-reported Peaceful Conflict Resolution Behaviour in Iranian and Finnish Adolescents
Authors: Jaghoory Hassan , Björkqvist Kaj , Österman Karin
Published: May 2018

The study investigated self-reported conflict behavior in 1,244 Iranian adolescents (649 boys, 595 girls; M age = 12.7 years, SD = 2.1 years) and in 620 Finnish adolescents (324 boys and 296 girls; M age = 12,7 years, SD = 2.0). The adolescents filled in a paper-and-pencil questionnaire with items inquiring about how they behaved when they themselves were in conflict with their peers, and when they were witnessing conflicts between others. The results showed that the Iranian adolescents were more inclined than the Finnish ones to make compromises and resolve conflicts peacefully. This was in particular true for Iranian boys. The results are in line with Hofstede’s (1980) cultural theory, according to which Iran is a typically collectivistic one, while Finland is a typically individualistic one.
Television Advertisement: Children's Inclination towards Chocolate Products
Authors: Bansal Ajit
Published: May 2018

The advertisement is the predominant Promotional Mix Variable which is being used in every industry to get noticed by their prospective customer, and thereby turning them into lifetime consumers. These advertisements are also playing their part in shaping the elders, teenagers or children. Especially, these advertisements are influencing the lifestyle of the children in much greater fashion, both in righteous and unrighteous direction. The main objective of this study is to find out, how children are influenced by the television advertisements. The focus of the study is on the effect of television advertisements on children with reference to different chocolate brands and their advertisements, to study the association between preference of children and demographic factors such as Gender and Medium of study. An attempt has been made to know the children's awareness about chocolate brands and preference to buy. The descriptive research design was used as the study followed structured design with predetermined objectives and hypotheses. Primary data have been collected through questionnaire. Chi-square test and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was carried out to test the hypotheses. The study comes out with useful insights and recommendations.
Faktor-Faktor Pengembangan Sistem Informasi Akademik Berbasis Web Pada Perguruan Tinggi Swasta Palembang
Authors: Putra Muhammad Soekarno
Published: May 2018

Salah satu pemanfaatan perkembangan teknologi informasi di dunia pendidikan di perguruan tinggi swasta (PTS) yaitu dengan memanfaatkan dan mengimplementasikan sistem informasi akademik (SIA) berbasis web. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meneliti kontribusi teknologi dan infrastruktur (TI), desain (DS), sumber daya manusia (SD) dan budaya (BD) dalam pengembangan SIA berbasis web pada PTS di Palembang. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode kuantitatif, sedangkan teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan metode angket. Metode analisa data pada penelitian ini menggunakan Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah PTS di Palembang yang memiliki SIA berbasis web yaitu Universitas Bina Darma dan STMIK Palcomtech. Sedangkan yang dijadikan responden yaitu mahasiswa, dosen dan staff. Hasil dari penelitian menunjukkan bahwa teknologi dan infrastruktur, desain, sumber daya manusia dan budaya berkontribusi terhadap pengembangan SIA berbasis web pada PTS di Palembang.
Sistem Informasi Geografis Dalam Pemetaan Lahan Gambut di Kabupaten Musi Banyuasin
Authors: Wijaya Alek , Agustini Eka Puji , Nardo Eko
Published: May 2018

Kelestarian alam adalah isu yang sangat sentral pada masa ini, hal ini di sebabkan oleh semakin banyaknya kerusakan yang alam yang terjadi dikarenakan ketidakperdulian manusia akan pentingya menjaga agar alam tetap menjadi tempat yang bersahabat untuk kehidupan kita. Salah satu penopang kelestarian alam adalah adanya kelestarian lahan gambut yang  mampu menyimpan gas karbon yang berfungsi untuk menahan laju paningkatan suhu bumi. Salah satu upaya yang dilakukan untuk menjaga kelestarian lahan gambut adalah tersedianya  data dan informasi tentang kondisi lahan gambut yang komprehensif dan terbaru yang bisa diakses oleh piha yang berkepentngan dengan kondisi lahan gambut. Untuk itulah dibutuhkan suatu Sistem Informasi Geografis  yang di desain dan dibangun dengan menggunakan pendekatan Classic Life Cycle Model serta  didukung dengan Perangakt lunak ArcGIS, UML Model dan Bahasa pemrograman PHP. Sistem informasi Geografis ini memberikan informasi pemetaan lahan gambut seperti: lokasi lahan gambut, kategori lahan gambut,lahan gambut yng sudah di kelolah dan belum dikelola.
Psicopatia E A Aplicação Da Pena
Authors: Capucio de Almeida Yasmin Cipione , Silva Alexander Corrêa Albino da
Published: May 2018

A psicopatia é um tema que desde o início dos tempos desafia todas as áreas científicas que a envolve, no que diz respeito ao conceito, características, tratamento, bem como sob a aplicação da pena. O presente trabalho se dedica ante as limitações existentes, identificar qual o meio de pena devem ser aplicadas ao psicopata, com base nos conceitos, pensamentos, características, e tantas outras teorias que serão apresentadas.
As Contradições Entre A Realidade Socioeconômica Da Comunidade Quilombola Kalunga De Cavalcante-Go E A Garantia Constitucional Da Dignidade Da Pessoa Humana
Authors: Oliveira Isabel Christina Gonçalves
Published: May 2018

O presente trabalho surge pelo fato de remanescentes de escravizados africanos no Brasil ainda viverem a margem dos direitos sociais, sendo privados em alguns casos, de assistência médica, educacional, segurança e moradia digna. Tendo em vista a Lei Áurea existir de fato, mas não de direito, onde uma abolição mal resolvida se estende por mais de 120 anos. O arsenal bibliográfico sustenta o fato de a escravidão ter condicionado o individuo negro a uma situação de subordinação e obediência, e mesmo lutando contra isso, tal ideia se materializou na sociedade. A problemática desse estudo se refere aos resquícios inerentes a situação de escravos que restam nesse grupo. Desse modo objetiva-se evidenciar que as Garantias Constitucionais relativas à Dignidade da Pessoa Humana ainda não alcançaram essa minoria social de uma maneira eficaz. Para obter tal resultado foi usada a metodologia qualiquantitativa por meio de análise de referencial teórico e pesquisa de campo. Ao fim do estudo verifica-se que a comunidade quilombola ainda não vive em condições equivalentes ao rol de garantias previstos na Constituição Federal e que as politicas públicas empregadas necessitam de melhorias para que se tornem verdadeiramente eficazes.
Efeito Fisiológico De Inseticidas E Fungicida Sobre A Germinação E Vigor De Sementes De Soja (Glycine max L.)
Authors: Costa Estevam Matheus , Nunes Bruno De Moraes , Ventura Matheus Vinicius Abadia , Arantes Bruno Henrique Tondato , Mendes Gabriel Ribeiro
Published: May 2018

A proteção inicial das plantas por meio da utilização de inseticidas e fungicidas tem se mostrado eficiente para um bom manejo de pragas e doenças, entretanto algumas moléculas utilizadas no tratamento de sementes vêm demonstrando um efeito fisiológico sobre a germinação e o desenvolvimento vegetativo inicial. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo a avaliação do efeito fisiológico provocado por inseticidas contendo os princípios ativos Imidacloprido, Tiametoxam, e um fungicida com os princípios ativos Metalaxyl-M + Fludioxonil sobre a germinação e sobre o vigor das sementes. O experimento foi conduzido no Laboratório de Análise de Sementes da Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais – Unidade Ituiutaba em Delineamento em Blocos Casualisados com seis tratamentos e quatro repetições para cada tratamento. Os tratamentos foram os seguintes: T1 - água destilada; T2 – inseticida Rocks® (Bifentrina + Imidacloprido); T3 – inseticida Cruiser® (Thiamethoxam); T4 – fungicida Maxim XL® (Fludioxonil + Metalaxyl-M); T5 – Rocks® + Maxim XL® e T5 – Cruiser® + Maxim XL®. A aplicação dos tratamentos foi realizada conforme recomendação dos fabricantes e foram avaliados o porcentual de germinação das sementes, o índice de velocidade de emergência, a condutividade elétrica da solução de embebição e o comprimento total de plântulas. Os dados foram submetidos à Análise de Variância (0,05) e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey (0,05). Os resultados indicaram que não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa para as variáveis germinação (%), índice de velocidade de emergência, condutividade elétrica da solução de embebição. Para a variável comprimento de plântulas constatou-se que houve diferença estatisticamente significativa ao nível de 5%, sendo assim, os tratamentos 3, 4, 5 e 6 foram estatisticamente superiores aos tratamentos 1 e 2.
Population dynamics of capercaillieTetrao urogallusin relation to bilberryVaccinium myrtillusproduction in southern Norway
Authors: Selås Vidar
Published: May 2018

Forester T. Grasaas' data on numbers of capercaillieTetrao urogalluscocks and hens observed at leks and clutch sizes in Vegårshei, southern Norway, during 1953–1962 (high population level) and 1969–1978 (low population level) were analysed with regard to bilberryVaccinium myrtillusproduction, autumn population indices and snow conditions in spring. From the mast depression hypothesis, it was predicted that the number of capercaillies counted at leks and the mean clutch size should be high after high seed crops (masts) of bilberry, usually produced at intervals of 3–5 years. In stepwise regression models, both the bilberry index of the preceding year and the autumn population index one (hens) or two (cocks) years earlier contributed to explain the mean number of capercaillies counted at leks during 1970–1978. Capercaillie clutch sizes were highest in years with early thaw, but the effect was significant only for the period 1969–1978. For this period, there also was a positive effect of the bilberry index and a negative effect of the autumn population index of the previous year. It is concluded that the synchronous population fluctuation of grouse and voles in Norway and Sweden cannot be explained by the alternative prey hypothesis alone, and that food quality should also be considered as a possible contributing factor when analysing population fluctuations of grouse and other herbivorous species.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY FOR GROUND TYPE EFFECT ON SOLAR CHIMNEY POWER PLANT
Authors: Abbood Mohammed , Abbas Mohammed
Published: May 2018

Solar chimney power plant is a technology capable to generate electric energy through a wind turbine using the solar radiation as energy source; nevertheless, one of the objectives pursued since its invention is to achieve energy generation during day and night. The ground under the power plant plays an important role on the energy balance and heat transfer, due to its natural behavior as a heat storage system. An experimental model was designed in Holley Kerbala city (Iraq), which consisted of a 3m collector radius with 8ᴼ collector inclination angle and a 6m height of chimney been constructed and collector periphery opening height 3cm. Three kinds of grounds was studied in this work: sand, mixed from sand and pebble and the third is black pebble. The results show that the highest airflow temperature inside the chimney reached was 66.8Co when using the black pebbles basement. The maximum basement temperature measured was 81.6Co for the mixed basement. Also, the highest temperature difference reached was 23.2Co for the same ground that have good performance during day light compared with pebble basement that have more energy saving in night.
DEVELOPMENT OF MICRO-HARDNESS AND WEAR PERFORMANCES OF BIOMEDICAL TITANIUM
Authors: Mohammed Mohsin
Published: May 2018

In the present work, the influence of thermal oxidation (TO) process on the micro-hardness and wear performances of a pure titanium (Ti) was studied. The process has been carried out at various values of temperature for determined time followed by furnace cooling to room temperature. The TO has supported the development of strong surface film on the Ti without spallation. This surface structure improved the results of micro-hardness and wear compared to untreated samples.
VALIDITY OF GARBER MODEL IN PREDICTING PAVEMENT CONDITION INDEX OF FLEXIBLE PAVEMENT IN KERBALA CITY
Authors: Hussein A. Ewadh Hussein A. Ewadh , Almuhanna Raid , Alasadi Saja J.
Published: May 2018

Pavement Condition Index (PCI) is one of the important basics in pavement maintenance management system (PMMS), and it is used to evaluate the current and future pavement condition. This importantance in decision making to limit the maintenance needs, types of treatment, and maintenance priority. The aim of this research is to estimate the PCI value for flexible pavement urban roads in the study area (kerbala city) by using Garber et al. developed model. Based on previous researches, data are collected for variables that have a significant impact on pavement condition. Data for pavement age (AGE), average daily traffic (ADT), and structural number (SN) were collected for 44 sections in the network roads. A field survey (destructive test (core test) and laboratory test (Marshall Test)) were used to determine the capacity of structure layer of pavement (SN). The condition index (CI) output from a developed model was compared with the PCI output of PAVER 6.5.7 by using statistical analysis test. The developed model overestimates value of CI rather than PCI estimated from PAVER 6.5.7 due to statistical test to a 95% degree of confidence, (R = 0.771) for 44 sections (arterial and collector).
ENHANCEMENT OF THE CORROSION RESISTANCE FOR 6009 ALUMINUM ALLOY BY LASER TREATMENT
Authors: Judran Abdulhadi , Kadhim Suad , Abdul Elah Hussain
Published: May 2018

Using laser in modifying the surfaces of various materials is an important topic in the present time. The type of alloy used in this investigation was 6009Al alloy. Laser has been used as inhibitor to reduce the corrosion rate by using Q-switching Nd: YAG Laser (with changing energy of laser and fixing other parameters) under laser shock peening (LSP) technique for 6009 AA in hydrochloric acid with concentration of 1 M and the immersion time of 30 minutes at room temperature. The corrosion rate was calculated by using the polarization method. The corrosion rate decreased from (0.366 to 0.016) mm/yr before and after using LSP, respectively. Therefore, this study aims to reduce the corrosion rate that occurs in 6009 Al alloy.
Implementation of time release technology in formulation development and evaluation of sustained release tablet of Lornoxicam
Authors: Kodalkar Swapnil J. , Khutale Rohan A. , Salunkhe Sachin S. , Mali Sachin S. , Nadaf Sameer J.
Published: May 2018

In present study, the attempts have been made to formulate sustained release tablets of lornoxicam by direct compression method. Based on viscosity grades different proportions of hydrophilic polymers (HPMC K4M, HPMC K15M, HPMC K100M) are used for preparation of lornoxicam sustained release matrix tablet. The drug excipient mixtures were subjected to preformulation studies comprising of micromeritic properties. The tablets were subjected to various studies like as physicochemical studies, in vitro drug release, kinetic studies, etc. FTIR studies shown there was no interaction between drug and polymers. The physicochemical properties of tablets were found within the limits. Lornoxicam is a first generation analgesic, inflammatory and antipyretic agent used in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute sciatica and low back pain. From developed formulations batch F1 have shown zero order drug release behavior and prolong drug release over a period of 12 h which was deemed as suitable and optimum formulation for sustained drug delivery. Results of the present study indicated the suitability of the low viscous polymer in the proportion of (drug:polymer) 1:1 in the preparation of sustained release formulation of lornoxicam.
Nanoemulsion: A Review on Novel Profusion in Advanced Drug Delivery
Authors: Bhosale Rohit Rajendra , Osmani Riyaz Ali , Ghodake Prasanna Prasad , Shaikh Sabir Majjid , Chavan Sarika Raghunath
Published: May 2018

Nanoemulsions are submicron sized emulsion that is under extensive investigation as drug carriers for improving the delivery of therapeutic agents. These are by far the most advanced nanoparticle systems for the systemic delivery of active pharmaceutical for controlled drug delivery and targeting. These are the thermodynamically stable isotropic system in which two immiscible liquid (water and oil) are mixed to form a single phase by means of an appropriate surfactants or it mixes with a droplet diameter approximately in the range of 0.5-100 μm. Nanoemulsion droplet size falls typically in the range of 20-200 nm and shows a narrow size distribution. Nanoemulsion show great promise for the future of cosmetics, diagnostics, drug therapies and biotechnologies. Thus the aim of this review is focused on nanoemulsion advantage and disadvantage, various methods of preparation, characterization techniques and the various applications of sub micron size emulsion in different areas such as various route of administration, in chemotherapy, in cosmetic, etc.
Biochemical analysis, pharmacological activity, antifungal activity and mineral analysis in methanolic extracts of Myrica esculenta and Syzygium cumini: the Indian traditional fruits growing in Uttarakhand Himalaya
Authors: Pant G. , Prakash Om , Chandra Mahesh , Sethi Sonali , Punetha H. , Dixit S. , Pant A. K.
Published: May 2018

Myrica esculenta (Myricaceae) and Syzygium cumini(Myrtaceae), the Indian traditional fruits were studied for their biochemical assay, antifungal activity and mineral analysis. The biochemical assay in terms of total phenols, flavonols, ortho dihydroxy phenolic, ascorbic acid and phytic acid content and antioxidant activity revealed different quantitative make up in all the different samples. The in vitro antioxidant activity determined by reducing power assay, chelating power on Fe2+ ions and 2, 2-diphenylpicrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging activity were found to be good to moderate in a dose dependent manner in all the extracts. The extracts showed significant antinociceptive and antipyretic activity on mice. Methanolic extracts of both the fruits collected from different regions exhibited good antifungal activity against the three pathogenic fungi viz; Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotium rolfsii, and Fusarium oxysporium. All the extracts studied for their mineral analysis through atomic absorption spectroscopy also revealed quantitative variation of N, P , K , S, Fe, Zn, Cu and Mn. Fe was found to be maximum in all the samples however Na was absent in all the samples.
Morphological responses of a high yielding groundnut cultivar (Arachis hypogaea L. cv. K-134 ) under water stress
Authors: Madhusudhan K. V. , Sudhakar C.
Published: May 2018

The present study was undertaken to ascertain the morphological responses of a groundnut cultivar K-134, under different water stress regimes characterized as control, mild, moderate and severe stress represented by 100, 75, 50 and 25% soil moisture levels respectively for eight days. Root length increased over control at mild, moderate stress treatments and inhibited at severe stress conditions on all days of sampling. Severe stress treatments had caused significant inhibition in shoot growth on day-4 and 8. The fresh and dry weights of roots and leaves and leaf area decreased over control in all stress treatments except under mild stress on day-4. The changes in theses parameters were dependent on stress severity and duration.
Estimation of Caffeine, Niacin and Calorie Content in Tea Commonly Consumed by Dhaka City Residents
Authors: Hosen Mb , Karmokar Nc , Bhuiyan Mar , Khanam J , Rahman Mk
Published: May 2018

Tea is largest consuming drink in the world. Many health claims is attributed towards the tea due to its distinguished phytochemical array. Role of tea is well established as a neutraceutical and many studies elucidate its pharmacological worth. The objective of this study was to calculate the calorie content by determining total lipid, crude fiber, total protein and available carbohydrate contents and estimation of caffeine and niacin content in Bangladeshi teas. The lipid, crude fiber, protein and available carbohydrate contents of the tea samples were found to be in the range of 3.25-5.53, 10.15-15.41, 12.97-17.08 and 4.78-6.21 g/100g fresh weight respectively while calorie contents were found in the range of 83.54- 101.46 Kcal/100g fresh weight of tea. The total caffeine and niacin content in teas ranged from 1.31 - 3.58 and 0.038 – 0.056 g/100g fresh weight respectively. Tea leaf contained the highest amount of caffeine (3.58 g/100g) and niacin (0.056 g/100g). As tea has different health effects it is essential to estimate the update nutrient contents of tea.
Assessment of visual problems in elderly in an urban slum community of Mumbai
Authors: Kamble Vinod S. , Takpere Aparna Y. , Biradar Santosh , Reddy Sriniwas
Published: May 2018

Background: Visual problems in the elderly share a major portion of the disability in the elderly. Visual impairment in the elderly can interfere with daily activities tremendously leading to dependence in many things. It can also lead to accidents and falls. Hence a study was carried out in an urban slum community at Mumbai to assess the various visual problems in the elderly, its causes and the prevalence. Methodology: Community based cross-sectional study of the elderly persons residing in an urban slum of Mumbai. Results: 65.54% (426) people had visual disability. Of 426 people with visual impairment 405(95.07%) people had low vision and 21 (4.93%) were blind. It was observed that errors of refraction (63.85%) and cataract (18.31%) were the most common cause of visual impairment. Conclusion: Visual impairment and disability is a major problem of the elderly. Errors of refraction and Cataract are the major causes for this disability which can be treated, thus preventing visual handicap and dependency.
In-vitro Antiurolithic activity of Kigelia africana fruit extracts
Authors: Gupta Asheesh Kumar , Kothiyal Preeti
Published: May 2018

Objectives: The plant Kigelia africana (Lam.) Benth. Family: Bignoniaceae is used in traditional medical practices of Africa and India to treat various diseases including renal disorders. The present study is designed to evaluate the effect of K. africana fruit extract (KAFE) for in-vitro anti-urolithic activity on generated calcium-oxalate crystals. Method: The aqueous and alcoholic (ethanolic) extracts of fruits were tested for anti-urolithiatic potential on generated calcium-oxalate crystals by homogenous precipitation method and simultaneously a supporting two step vice-versa reactions were assessed (New method). The activity was assessed by studying the crystal dissolution by microscopy and quantitative alimental ions analysis for calcium and oxalates. Result: They exhibited significant activity when compared to standard drug Cystone- a poly herbal formulation. The aqueous and alcoholic extracts significantly decreased (p 0.001) crystal size and increased calcium and oxalate concentration in reaction setup of all tested groups as compared to normal control. Simultaneously a supporting two step vice-versa reaction was assessed that have shown significant inhibition of crystal formation. Conclusion: All the interpretations of various result outcomes direct the use of this drug for urolithiasis prophylaxis and treatments.
In-vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing of bacteria causing diarrhea in children at Khartoum StateSudan
Authors: Hamid Eldaif Walid Ahmed , Omer Alfadhi Al-Obied , Saeed Najeeb Sulyman
Published: May 2018

Background: Diarrhea remains a major public health problem in developing countries. The current
study was design to assess the antimicrobial susceptibility testing of bacteria causing diarrhea in
children those antibiotics are recommended by Integrated Management-of Childhood illness (IMCI) .
Methods: A total number of 114 bacterial pathogens isolated from 432 children patients with diarrhea
attending Khartoum Pediatric Hospital and Omdurman Pediatric Hospital during the period of May 2005
to July 2007 were enrolled into the study. The antimicrobial activity against five commonly used
antibiotics: ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, co-trimoxazole, nalidixic acid and amoxicillin were performed
using Kirby-Bauer method. Results: Out of 114 isolates about 63% were susceptible to co-trimoxazole;
where as 71.4% and 80.4% of the isolates were susceptible to amoxicillin and nalidixic acid, respectively.
All (100%) of isolated pathogens were susceptible to ciprofloxacin where as the susceptibility of
gentamicin among all isolates were 96.4%. Among 61 Shigella spp. isolates only 49.2% were
susceptible to co-trimoxazole compared with 54.1% of Shigella spp isolates that were susceptible to
amoxicillin. 96.8% of Shigella isolates were susceptible to gentamicin. Conclusion: In vitro sensitivity
test of isolates showed that ciprofloxacin, and gentamicin were the most effective antibacterial drugs for
bloody diarrhoea compared to co-trimoxazole and amoxicillin
Melatonin and thermal stress regulate differential expression of heat shock proteins and melatonin receptors in spleen of mice
Authors: Acharjee Samik , Singh Shiv Shankar
Published: May 2018

Cellular defence by expression of heat shock proteins (Hsps) against stress stimulation is the
most universal phenomenon in stress physiology. Melatonin is well known as an anti-stress
molecule possessing hypothermic effects. It protects cells and tissues in stressed conditions.
Individually, Hsp70 and melatonin shows its functional ability in stressed organisms as well
as in immune functions. The aim of the present study was to determine the interaction of
melatonin receptors (MT1/MT2) in exogenous melatonin modulated expression of heat shock
proteins (Hsp70/Hsc70) in spleen of thermally stressed male mice. Results of the study
showed thermal stress significantly increased the Hsp70/Hsc70 and melatonin receptor MT2
expression in spleen of mice. The administration of melatonin significantly increased Hsp70
expression, but decreased Hsc70 expression. Both MT1/MT2 receptor expressions increased
after melatonin treatment, whereas thermal stress to melatonin treated mice showed decrease
in MT1/MT2 receptor expression than the only melatonin treated mice. MT2 receptor is
responding in all experimental conditions corresponding to changes in Hsp70 protein
expression. Therefore, the present study might suggest that MT2 receptor is interacting in
coordination of melatonin mediated heat shock proteins expression in mice spleen after
thermally stressed conditions.
Antimicrobial potential of the marine intertidal sponge, Ircinia fusca from west coast of India
Authors: Subugade Sharad , Mokashe Satish , Gupta S G , Lakwal Vijay , Kharate Dinesh
Published: May 2018

In vitro antimicrobial screening of marine sponge (Porifera) Ircinia fusca collected from west coast of India, against selected bacteria and fungi was conducted in this study. Crude sponge extracts of the marine organism Ircinia fusca demonstrated activity against eight microbes tested. The extracts showing good antimicrobial activity are undergoing further analysis to identify the active constituents.
Validated method for estimation of irbesartan in bulk and dosage form by high performance liquid chromatography technique
Authors: Kulkarni N. S. , Rathor D. S. , Ranpise N. S. , Dhole S. N.
Published: May 2018

A simple, specific, accurate and precise new high performance liquid chromatographic method was developed for the estimation of irbesartan in bulk and its developed dosage form. The mobile phase containing acetonitrile: Phosphate buffer pH 3.5 in proportion of 50:50 v/v was employed with flow rate of1.0 ml/min and eluting medium was monitored at 240 nm. The method was validated for linearity, accuracy, precision, limit of detection, limit of quantification and robustness for irbesartan. A linear response was observed in the range of 5- 40μg/ml. Linear regression of absorbance on concentration gave equation y = 101.9x + 195.3 with a regression co-efficient r2 =0.993. The method was validated for different parameters as per the ICH guidelines. The degradation studies were carried out by using the developed method. Thus the method was found to be useful for the determination of irbesartan in bulk as well as for dosage forms.
Combination of Loperamide and Niacin modify DENA induced altered Liver enzymes
Authors: Anwar Firoz , Khan Ruqaiyah , Singh Rajbala
Published: May 2018

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is among the most lethal cancers which makes it the third most frequent cause of cancer related deaths. Diethylnitrosamine (DENA) is a potent initiator and hepatocarcinogen in rats. DENA induced Hepatocellular damage clearly demonstrates by the elevated levels of liver enzymes serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and a-feto protein (AFP). This work is an attempt to test the hypothesis that Loperamide (5mg/kg) and Niacin in combination restores the DENA (160mg/kg) induced altered enzymes after single i.p administration in Wistar rats. The ability to alter the enzymes was measured by comparing biochemical serum markers and AFP. The results have confirmed the significant elevation of these parameters in DENA control group compared to normal control and the therapeutic groups. Therapeutic group significantly reveals that Loperamide and Niacin restores the altered hepatic enzymes towards the Normal. Key messages: Our data reveals and confirms that this remarkable combination possess the potential for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinomas in rats exposed to DENA. Administration of Loperamide + Niacin relatively improved the biochemical parameters to values approximating those of the normal controls.
Optical device for thermal effusivity estimation of liquids
Authors: Garcia-Cadena Carlos
Published: May 2018

We determined the thermal effusivity of liquids using an optical sensor based on the laser beam deflection technique, without directly heat the samples and thus minimally altering them. Applying a heat pulse in a thermo-optical slab we generate a unidimensional temperature distribution. This temperature distribution modifies the refractive index in the slab that finally causes the deflection of a laser beam that propagates perpendicularly to the direction of the heat propagation. The deflection of the laser beam depends on the interaction of the thermal energy with the sample at the slab interface. The exchange of thermal energy between the thermo-optical slab and the sample depends, on the thermal properties of both of them, being the thermal effusivity of our particular interest. Utilizing a theoretical model, we estimate the thermal effusivity of liquids using tridistilled-water and glycerine as reference.We present a simplified version of a past sensor proposal as well as the theoretical analysis of the sensor response. We obtain the thermal effusivity of tridistilled water and glycerine samples with a maximum error of 3%. Finally, we estimate the thermal effusivity of dissolutions of NaCl in tridistilled-water with maximum error of 7.3%.
A relativistic formulation of the de la Peña-Cetto stochastic quantum mechanics
Authors: Cabo Montes de Oca Alejandro , González Lezcano A.
Published: May 2018

A covariant generalization of a non-relativistic stochastic quantum mechanics introduced by de la Peña and Cetto is formulated. The analysis is done in space-time and avoids the use of a non-covariant time evolution parameter in order to search for Lorentz invariance. The covariant form of the set of iterative equations for the joint coordinate and momentum distribution function Q(x; p) is derived and expanded in power series of the coupling of the particle with the stochastic forces. Then, particular solutions of the zeroth order in the charge of the iterative equations for Q(x; p) are considered. For them, it follows that the space-time probability density ρ(x) and the function S(x) which gradient defines the mean value of the momentum at the space time point x, define a complex function ψ(x) which exactly satisfies the Klein-Gordon (KG) equation. These results for the zeroth order solution reproduce the ones formerly and independently derived in the literature. It is alsoargued that when the KG solution is either of positive or negative energy, the total number of particles conserves in the random motion. Other solutions for the joint distribution function in lowest order, satisfying the positive condition are also presented here. The are consistent with the assumed lack of stochastic forces implied by the zeroth order equations. It is also argued that such joint distributions, after considering the action of the stochastic forces, might furnish an explanation of the quantum mechanical properties, as associated to ensembles of particles in which the vacuum makes such particles behave in a similar way as Couder’s droplets moving over oscillating liquid surfaces. Some remarks on the solutions of the positive joint distribution problem proposed in the Olavos’s analysis are also presented.
Weyl invariance in metric f(R) gravity
Authors: Fernández Cristóbal José Ma.
Published: May 2018

We aim to derive the most general f(R) gravity theory, including the matter, so that it be Weyl invariant. Making use of the mathematical equivalence of these theories with an type of scalar-tensor theory, and by imposing the Weyl invariance for the pure gravity as well as for the matter sector, we obtain the fundamental equation that restricts the form of V (phi) (and, accordingly, of f(R)) so that the resulting action to be Weyl invariant in the Jordan frame. We show that this action is not other than the so-called dilaton gravity action with one scalar eld,, which eective mass is R and Phi dependent. In the Einstein frame, the action becomes the Einstein-Hilbert action with the Ricci scalar being constant due to that the eective mass of scalar eld in this frame vanish. So, we can assume that the Ricci scalar, in the Einstein frame, is the true Cosmological Constant. Therefore, is not preposterous to guess that, at least mathematically, all Weyl invariant metric f(R) theory in the Jordan frame is equivalent, at classical level, to the Einstein gravity, in the Einstein frame, with a constant Ricci scalar. At quantum level, as it is known, both theories are not equivalent due to the presence of anomalies in one of the frames.
Sobre la relación entre las distribuciones de los tamaños de poros y partículas del suelo
Authors: López Lambraño Alvaro Alberto , Fuentes C. , López Ramos A.
Published: May 2018

The particle and void sizes distributions of the soil are related with the assumption that a voidconstant relationship at all di§erent scales and a relationship between pore and particle size ofa given packing. In the relationship between pore and particle sizes, a particle elongation factoris applied based on the Arya and Paris model. A áow trajectory tortuosity factor based on theFuentes model can also be applied. Since the void size distribution is associated to the soil waterretention curve, the proposed relationship can be used to estimate this curve from particle sizedistribution.