bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leverage and Deepening Business-Cycle Skewness
Authors: Jensen Henrik , Petrella Ivan , Ravn Søren Hove , Santoro Emiliano
Published: January 2020

We document that the United States and other G7 economies have been characterized by an increasingly negative business-cycle asymmetry over the last three decades. This finding can be explained by the concurrent increase in the financial leverage of households and firms. To support this view, we devise and estimate a dynamic general equilibrium model with collateralized borrowing and occasionally binding credit constraints. Improved access to credit increases the likelihood that financial constraints become nonbinding in the face of expansionary shocks, allowing agents to freely substitute inter-temporally. Contractionary shocks, however, are further amplified by drops in collateral values, since constraints remain binding. As a result, booms become progressively smoother and more prolonged than busts. Finally, in line with recent empirical evidence, financially driven expansions lead to deeper contractions, as compared with equally sized nonfinancial expansions. (JEL D14, E23, E32, E44)
The Agricultural Wage Gap: Evidence from Brazilian Micro-data
Authors: Alvarez Jorge A.
Published: January 2020

A key feature of developing economies is that wages in agriculture are below those of other sectors. Using Brazilian household surveys and administrative panel data, I use information on workers who switch sectors and workers with multiple jobs to assess the role of worker composition in explaining this gap. The evidence is consistent with the presence of significant intersector sorting in Brazil. A calibrated sorting model can account for the wage gap level observed, as well as its decline, as the economy transitioned out of agriculture. (JEL J24, J31, J43, O13, Q10)
Game—The Beer Transportation Game: How to Decarbonize Logistics by Moving Freight to Sustainable Transport Modes
Authors: Dong Chuanwen , Boute Robert
Published: January 2020

Moving freight to sustainable transport modes is one of the most frequently mentioned suggestions to decarbonize logistics. Regrettably, even with regulation and technology developing over the past years, most of the freight volumes are still shipped via road, the least sustainable means of transport. This paper presents a beer transportation game to support logistics decarbonization via a modal shift from road to rail. In the game, student teams play the role of a logistics manager of a beer brewer and decide on the transport mode and shipment volume from the brewery to a distribution center. Their decisions are evaluated by the impact on total logistics costs and emissions. The game consists of two rounds, each with a student participation part and a lecturer debriefing part. The first round helps students understand why firms are often reluctant to shift freight from road to the low-emission transport mode (e.g., rail), and the second round encourages students to overcome the obstacles and helps them design practical approaches to alter the modal split in favor of rail transport. The game can be sealed into a 90-minute session and incorporated into any courses covering the topic of sustainable logistics or supply chain management.
Smart City Operations: Modeling Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Hasija Sameer , Shen Zuo-Jun Max , Teo Chung-Piaw
Published: January 2020

We discuss some recent developments in smart city initiatives across the world to motivate the opportunities and challenges that such initiatives pose, and we categorize them into three themes: data access and collection, end-user utility, and economic viability of different solutions. We recognize that the academic literature that can help in addressing some of these challenges is at its nascent state and provide guidelines on how manufacturing and service operations management scholars can contribute to the global smart city movement.
Crowdsourcing and Crowdfunding in the Manufacturing and Services Sectors
Authors: Allon Gad , Babich Volodymyr
Published: January 2020

In the last few years, we have seen the emergence of two new ways in which firms interact with outside stakeholders, namely crowdsourcing and crowdfunding service providers. In this article, we define crowdsourcing and crowdfunding terms, compare new business models with traditional ones, review the operations management research community’s contribution so far, point out useful frameworks for understanding the phenomena, illuminate promising research paths, and highlight open research questions. We also discuss the parallels between these concepts as well the main differences.
Planning of Number and Location of New Base Transceiver Station (BTS) Tower in Mobile Telecommunication System in Jombang Using Analytical Hierarchy Process Method and Geographic Information System Approach
Authors: Mauludiyanto Achmad -
Published: January 2020

Technology and telecommunication industry has been growing rapidly. Operators continue to race to be able to improve its services. One of them is the development of BTS to be able to serve mobile users in the area to be reached. But development without proper planning can have a bad impact in the future. This research discussed about the location arrangement and number of BTS in Jombang regency up to 5 years according to Analytical Hierarchy Process method with population density criteria, RTRW and distance and will be displayed in digital map based on geographic information system. For 2014 there are 204 towers in Jombang while for 2019 it takes 231 towers to cover the needs of the people of Jombang Regency.
First Impression Formation Allows Judgements in Regard to Coping in Life Rather than Subjective Well-Being
Authors: Linden Michael , Keller Laila , Noack Nils
Published: January 2020

Background/Aims: Persons elicit emotional reactions in their vis-à-vis within a split-second, resulting in far reaching judgements. This is called first impression formation. It has been shown that respective judgements show high reliability. Data are needed on the validity. In this study we wanted to test, if it is possible to predict by first impression formation how a person feels and whether he or she has problems in life.
Method: We invited a convenience sample of 102 train passengers to answer a short self-rating questionnaire on their present well-being and problems in life. Additionally, a researcher recorded her first impression of the passenger by using the MED scale. The researcher did not know the other person before.
Results: Judgements on the impression of participants were unrelated to their present well-being. There were relations between a kind and friendly first impression formation and work-related problems and capacity restrictions in contrast to participants with a self-assured and over-confident appearance, who reported less problems with their abilities and the workplace. A friendly first impression formation was significantly more pronounced in females.
Conclusion: Results suggest that first impression formation reflects not so much the present subjective inner status of the person but to some degree his or her personality and adjustment in life. This suggests that impression formation may be a factor which has a direct impact on coping with life, as persons communicate with others by their non-verbal behavior.
Evaluating the Antimicrobial Efficacy of an Innovative, Novel Herbal Formulation on Dental Caries and Plaque Microorganisms - A Clinical Research.
Authors: Chandra Shekar B R , Nagarajappa Ramesh , Jain Richa , Suma S , Mruthunjaya K , Thakur Rupesh
Published: January 2020

To develop a novel, innovative herbal formulation that can prevent both dental caries and periodontal diseases simultaneously. This clinical research involved in vitro studies to determine Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of combinations of Acacia nilotica, Murraya koenigii Linn Sprengel, Eucalyptus hybrid, and Psidium Guajava on dental caries and plaque bacteria followed by evaluation of phytochemical constituents in these plant extracts. MIC was determined using broth dilution method. Then, an animal experimentation was carried out to determine median lethal dose and adverse drug reactions following single oral administration of polyherbal extract which was followed by human experimentation. A short term double blind randomized double blind study on 34 adult human volunteers was undertaken to assess antiplaque efficacy of a novel polyherbal mouth rinse using 0.2% chlorhexidine as positive control.MIC of the polyherbal combinations on S. mutans, S. sanguis, S. salivarius, L. acidophilus, F. nucleatum and P. gingivalis was found to be 0.25%, 0.05% , 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.25% and 0.25% respectively. Median lethal dose (LD50) for herbal formulation was found to be more than 2000mg/kg body weight. In vivo study found that the polyherbal mouth rinse group had lesser plaque buildup, S mutans and total viable count in comparison with saline group with no significant difference in plaque build-up and total viable count between polyherbal rinse group and 0.2% chlorhexidine. Polyherbal mouth rinse containing Acacia nilotica, Murraya koenigii L.sprengel, Eucalyptus hybrid and Psidium guajava was effective against dental caries and plaque induced dental diseases.
Induction of Apoptotic Mechanism by Streblus Asper Root Extract on Cervical Cancer Using in Vitro and in Vivo Models
Authors: Nabil Muhammad , Seeni Azman , Ismail Wan Ismahanisa , Rahim Nurhidayah Ab. , Dzulkarnain Syarifah Masyitah Habib
Published: January 2020

Cervical cancer has been ranked as the third most common cancer among women worldwide. As an alternative to existing preventive and treatment measures, natural plants have been seen to carry potential therapeutic value against cancers. These include Streblus asper which proved to possess anti-cancer effects on several types of cancer. In the present study, we observed that S.asper is able to induce apoptosis on cervical cancer cells through the regulation of several apoptotic proteins. This analysis was performed using both in vitro and in vivo models. The protein expression was analysed using antibody array, 28 protein markers were found differentially expressed in both study models. Based on these findings, we propose that S.asper induces apoptosis on cervical cancer cells through TNF signaling which in turn triggers the activation of SMAC pathway and blockage of NF-κB cascade. It is also suggested that the apoptosis inducement is assisted by the HSP60 downregulation which subsequently results in p53 activation and survivin down-expression. Our study provides a preliminary understanding on selective apoptotic mechanism induced by S.asper on cervical cancer.
Boerhaavia Diffusa: Bioactive Compounds and Pharmacological Activities
Authors: Kaur Harpreet
Published: January 2020

Boerhaavia diffusa belonging to family Nyctaginaceae has a wide distribution, occurring on major part of the globe. It is known as Punarnava in Ayurveda and is a main ingredient in many formulations of Ayurveda. It is used as traditional medicine by indigenous people of many countries in the world for its protective role against inflammation, prostatic hyperplasia, diabetes, cancer, gastrointestinal problems, arthritis etc. The whole plant contains numerous bioactive compounds which are responsible for its pharmacological activities. Experiments are being done to evaluate full potential of the plant. The present review focuses on the bioactive compounds and pharmacological activities of B. diffusa. The study is carried out with the aim that it will be helpful for more research and wide acceptance of B. diffusa so that the plant which till now was used by indigenous people for its medicinal properties will become an ingredient of major mainstream medicines used to treat chronic human ailments.
Assessment of Hepatoprotective Activity of Rajata Bhasma in CCl­4 Induced Hepatotoxicity Rats
Authors: Rai Anand Prakash , Tripathi Shalini , Tiwari Om Prakash
Published: January 2020

Rajata Bhasma (RB) is an Ayurvedic formulation and used for the treatment of liver disorders. Till date scientific validation according to modern tool of RB has been not performed. Hence it was planned to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of RB in CCl­4 induced liver cirrhosis rats. The different formulation RB1 (9 puta) and RB2 (17 puta) were prepared by following classical methods. The SGOT, SGPT, ALP, ACP, total bilirubin and direct bilirubin in blood significantly enhance in CCl4 treated rats compared to normal group rats. After treatment with the different doses of RB1 (50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg) and RB2 (50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg) significantly decreased the CCl4 induced alteration in SGOT, SGPT, ALP, ACP, total bilirubin and direct bilirubin in blood. The RB1 and RB2 treated rats significantly increased the level of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase enzyme, whereas lipid peroxidation was decreased, when compared to CCl4 treated group rats. Theses property confirmed the antioxidant properties of RB. The findings suggest that hepatoprotective activity of RB may be due to free radical scavenging property.
Therapeutic Intervention of Curcumin on Interleukin-6 and Oxidative Stress Induced by Paraquat Toxicity of Lung and Liver in Rats
Authors: El-Nabarawy Nagla , Gouda Ahmed , Shalaby Ezzeldin
Published: January 2020

Redox equilibrium is altered due to elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or inadequate antioxidant defense, therapeutic effects of natural antioxidant such as curcumin (CMN) have been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the beneficial effects of curcumin (a natural polyphenol) on oxidative status of lung and liver and assessment of level of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in rats against paraquat toxicity. Forty adult male wistar rats were divided into five groups with eight animals each as followed: Group 1: control, Group 2: rats received olive oil. Group 3: rats received curcumin (CMN) (200 mg/kg body weight in olive oil) orally. Group 4 (model group): rats were given a single oral dose of paraquat (PQ) 50 mg/kg body weight dissolved in distilled water intra-peritoneally (I.P) Group 5: rats received CMN orally daily for 10 days prior to PQ administration with the same previous doses and after PQ. After forty eight hours of PQ administration, rats were sacrificed and lung and liver tissues samples were examined for detection of biochemical parameters and histopathological changes. Significant histopathological changes had resulted from PQ administration in lung and liver tissues in addition to significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA), and significant decrease of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione reductase (GR). However, treatment with CMN produced increasing antioxidant markers and depletion of MDA compared to the model group. Also there is significant increase in serum IL-6 after PQ administration compared to control group. However, the level of IL-6 significantly decreased in treated group with curcumin compared to the model group. Curcumin possesses remarkable protection of the altered lung and liver tissues in paraquat intoxicated rats and could reduce the damaging effect by increasing antioxidant activity and decreasing lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress and IL-6.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Mangosteen (Garcinia Mangostana Linn.) Rind Extract Nanoemulgel and Gel Dosage Forms
Authors: Astuti Ketut Widyani , Wijayanti Ni Putu Ayu Dewi , Yustiantara Putu Sanna , Laksana Komang Puja , Putra Putu Surya Anggara
Published: January 2020

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana Linn.) rind is known for its anti-inflammatory activity. Inflammation of local tissue can be overcome by topical administration of dosage forms. In an effort to improve the quality of topical drug delivery, nanoparticle technology can be an option.The purpose of this study is to determine the activity of gel and nanoemulgel dosage forms containing fractions of mangosteen rind extract (n-hexane: ethyl acetate). The gel dosage form of mangosteen rind fractions was successfully prepared. Its physical and chemical properties were evaluated, and the results were within the expected range. The spreadibility of the formulations was between 5-7cm and the pH was between 4.5 and 6.5.The 0.0625% and 0.125% mangosteen rind fraction concentrations are the formulas by which nanoemulgel was successfully formed, resulting in non-separating phases, percent transmittance of 96.997 ± 0.137% and 94.253 ± 0.134% respectively, particle size of 17.437 ± 0.427 and 17.240 ± 0.276 nm; potential zeta of 5.183 ± 0.202 and -10.143 ± 0.238. In the inflammatory test of carrageenan induced laboratory mice, nanoemulgel containing 0.0625% and 0.125% mangosteen rind fraction concentrations produced better percent inhibition (p<0.05) compared to gel containing 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1% mangosteen rind fraction concentrationsin the 90th minute, but the difference was not significant in the 120thminute through the end of thetest. The nanoemulgel containing 0.0625% and 0.125% mangosteen rind fraction concentrations have an unsignificant difference in results (p>0.05) when compared to the reference drug (diclofenac sodium) in the 90th minute.
The Study of Availability, Affordability and Price Variation of Essential Antibiotics in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md. Aknur , Dina Sauda Sumaya , Islam Md. Monirul , Chowdhury Jakir Ahmed , Kabir Shaila , Choudhury Abu Asad , Amran Md. Shah
Published: January 2020

The increased prices and low availability of medicines are main obstacles to health care system in developing countries like Bangladesh. The main goal of this work is to gather and assessing the data on availability, affordability and price variations of essential antibiotics in Bangladesh. The data will help to improve the availability and affordability of essential antibiotics for the mass peoples. The present work was done using standard methodology described in guideline, “Price measurement, availability and affordability and price components of medicines. A total of eighteen essential antibiotics were surveyed and their prices and availability were determined. Prices from 2003 to 2019 were collected from different sources to make a comparative study of the price variations over the years. The overall prices of essential antibiotics are not much higher than international reference prices. The rate of increase of price from previous years is not so alarming. The numbers of manufacturing companies were collected from the Bangladesh National Formulary (BDNF) of different Volumes to compare the increasing number of manufacturers. Essential antibiotics affordability was determined by comparing the total cost of treatment of a particular disease to the monthly salary of the lowest paid unskilled laborer. There are several essential antibiotics for which the numbers of manufacturing companies are increasing in very high rate. This type of survey may be expanded to the national level for the data of different regions of Bangladesh.
Effect of Losartan on Different Biochemical Parameters in Essential Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Salve Pratibha S. , Khanwelkar Chitra C. , Salve Preeti S. , Thorat Vandana M. , Matule Somnath M. , Seshla S
Published: January 2020

The renin–angiotensin system (RAS) provides the most powerful regulation of blood pressure and angiotensin II is the primary mediator in this system. The binding of angiotensin II to AT1 receptors produces a number of potentially harmful effects that include increase in blood pressure, progression of atherosclerosis, myocardial and vascular hypertrophy. Losartan was the first ARB and found to reduce the risk of stroke, new onset of diabetes and to have a proven benefit in stroke. The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of losartan on different biochemical parameters viz; blood sugar, lipid profile, uric acid and serum electrolytes. 29 newly diagnosed patients of either gender with essential hypertension were included in the study. Baseline readings of lipid profile, serum electrolytes, fasting blood sugar and uric acid were recorded before starting losartan monotherapy and were repeated after six months. After comparing the means, it was revealed that there was a significant increase in HDL cholesterol and a significant decrease in serum uric acid levels after six months of losartan therapy. No significant difference was found in blood sugar and electrolyte levels. These findings suggest that losartan can be an attractive option for the treatment of hypertension and for metabolic syndrome.
Evaluation of Interleukin 17 A Level and Lipid Profile in Diabetic Female Patients Treated by Metformin and Glimepiride in Kirkuk City Iraq
Authors: Mohammed Fatma Mustafa , Pambuk Chateen I. Ali
Published: January 2020

The study was conducted on patients with type 2 diabetes in Kirkuk governorate for the period from March 2016 to July 2016. The aim of the study was to evaluate some variables for diabetics who were referred to clinics and specialized laboratories in Kirkuk governorate. The study included 124 female samples ranging in age from 38-69 years. These samples were divided into 4 groups. A group of 40 healthy samples representing the control group were free of diabetes and chronic diseases. Group (B) of the 18 sample, and included patients with type II diabetes are treated with the drug Glimepiride . And group (C) of 29 samples of diabetic patients treated with metformin and group (D) 37 samples of diabetic patients treated with metformin and Glimepiride together. The results of the present study showed that there were significant statistical differences (p≤ 0.05) for the body mass in general in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus when compared with healthy control. Also, there were in statistically significant increase (p≤ 0.05) in HbA1c and blood glucose for diabetic patients in the three groups compared to healthy females. The results of the current study showed that interleukin 17 was higher in diabetic patients in general, especially in the group C, D with a significant level (p≤ 0.05) compared to the healthy. As for the fat level a significant levels were recorded (p≤ 0.05) (p≤ 0.01) . There was a significant overall increase in both TG LDL VLDL CH and a decrease in HDL.
Isolation and Characterization of Volatile Oil by Gc-Ms Analysis and Screening of In Vitro Antioxidant Potential of Hydroalcoholic Extracts of Some Indigenous Plants of Northern India in Rodents
Authors: Chaudhary Preeti , Ahmad Shamim , Khan Najam Ali
Published: January 2020

The main aim and objective of my research work is the isolation of volatile oil from the leaves of plants by GC-MS analysis and screening of in vitro antioxidant potential of hydroalcoholic extracts of some Indigenous plants of Northern India in rodents. To perform this research work the fresh leaves of Prunus persica, Calotropis procera & Canscora decussata were taken. The isolation of volatile oil was done by using Clavenger apparatus. The samples were further analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. In vitro antioxidant potential was carried out by DPPH, Hydrogen peroxide, Hydroxyl radical and Nitric oxide scavenging activity. Ascorbic acid was used as standard drug in this study. The percent inhibition values for antioxidant potential were obtained and tabulated. The present experimental data clearly displayed that the hydroalcoholic extract of above mentioned plant’s leaves exhibited antioxidant potential.
Effects of Decompressive Craniectomy with Mesh in the Level of Transforming Growth Factor Beta, Fibroblast Cell Count, Size of Fibrosis, and Clinical Adhesion of Peridural Tissues in Wistar Rat with Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Niryana I Wayan , Maliawan Sri , Bakta I Made , Astawa I Nyoman Mantik
Published: January 2020

One option to control intracranial pressure (ICP) is by performing decompressive craniectomy (DC) before definitive treatment. A common problem after DC is adhesion. Separated injured tissue surfaces by using bioabsorbable membranes over a critical/certain period are predicted to prevent fibrin bridge formation and adhesion. This study is conducted to prove the effects of DC with mesh on TGF-β levels, fibroblast cell count, fibrosis size and clinical adhesions in wistar rat with traumatic brain injury. The current research uses animal model with randomized post-test only control group design. A total of 20 samples that met the eligibility criteria were included in the study and randomized. A total of 10 samples were grouped as a control group (standard DC) and 10 samples were grouped as a study group (DC with mesh). On day 7, we performed euthanasia and took peridural tissue for examination of TGF-β levels, fibroblast cell count, and fibrosis size. The mean results of TGF-β in the study group were lower than the control group (81.28±17.48 pg/dl vs 93.83±9.51 pg/dl) although this difference was not statistically significant (p=0.062). For the mean number of fibroblasts cells, there was a significant difference where the study group was lower than the control group (56.8±20.59 cells/HPF vs 94.8±18.56 cells/HPF) with p<0.001. The mean size of peridural fibrosis also showed a significant difference where the mean size of peridural fibrosis in the study group was lower than the control group (1182.52±347.05 μm vs 1545.78±378.28 μm) with p=0.038. Only DC samples (without the use of mesh) had a relative risk 8 times greater for clinical adhesions compared to mesh (RR=8; 95% CI, 1,215-52,693; p=0,005). DC with mesh significantly resulted in low fibroblast cells count, size of peridural fibrosis, and the risk of clinical adhesions in wistar rat with traumatic brain injury.
Role of an Orthodontist in the Management of Cleft Maxilla With Anterior Maxillary Segmental Distraction (AMD)- A Clinical overview
Authors: Ashith M. V , Mangal Utkarsh , Lohia Ankita , Mithun. K
Published: January 2020

The main clinical and radiological defect in cleft maxilla is localised at the region of nasomaxillary complex and thereby the increased focus on maxillary interventional correction. During the period of development, the affected individual undergoes a series of periodic treatment approaches aimed towards normalisation of the function and aesthetics. However, such interventional procedures can have otherwise effects on the restriction of growth. Surgical and facial orthopaedic interventions can cause protrusion of the premaxilla. This influences the depth and height of the upper jaw and thus the total height causing clockwise rotation of the face. Similarly, the depth of the posterior maxilla is found to be reduced in CLP cases. The advancement of the anterior maxilla with callus distraction for correction of the cleft maxilla was first reported by KraKasis and Hadjipetrou in 2004. The technique has been used since then with variable success and less predictability. The present table clinic is targeted to showcase the key features of various stages critical in planning the anterior maxillary distraction in adult maxillary hypoplasia cases. The requirement of precision in planning and treatment is high in such cases to minimize the adverse effects. The novel methodology discussed here is the combination of CBCT, face bow transfer and stereolithography for surgical planning and simulation. With the use of CBCT diagnostic capacity is enhanced, enabling visualisation of the defect. It also helps to simulate surgical procedure virtually and/or with the application of stereolithography. Use of the face bow facilitates biomechanical planning. The registration of the maxillomandibular relation to the cranial base serves as a guide to position the distractor. This is a critical step, as it dictates the direction of the distraction force vectors. Precise orientation and planning enable predictable movement of the anterior maxilla and control the extent of anterior open bite opening, in most cases. This contrasts with the overbite created with counter clockwise jaw rotation, reducing the post distraction orthodontic management. This table clinic presentation also draws home the key points in identifying and mitigating the potential complications during and after the distraction. The use of the present methodology enables a predictive treatment outcome for the cases with minimal complications associated with distraction with a marked reduction in the magnitude of callus molding. Therefore, with the application of this novel clinical paradigm for AMD, a predictable result can be achieved, which helps in the reduction of the treatment time and gives a stable outcome
Assessment of BMD and Statistical Analysis for Osteoporosis Detection
Authors: Fathima S. M. Nazia , Selvi R. Tamil , Beham M. Parisa
Published: January 2020

Biomedical engineering is one of the promising disciplines in engineering that deals with technology advancement in human health. Osteoporosis is a common metabolic disease categorized by decreased bone mass and increased liability to fractures. Bone densitometry is a broad term comprising the art and science of measuring the bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) of particular skeletal sites or the whole body. There are various methods to measure bone mineral density which differs based on the differential absorption of ionizing radiation or the sound waves. The methods are SPA (Single Photon Absorptiometry), DPA (Dual Photon Absorptiometry), SEXA (Single Energy X ray Absorptiometry), DEXA (Dual Energy X ray Absorptiometry), QCT (Quantitative Computed Tomography), QUS (Quantitative Ultra Sound) and RA (Radiographic absorptiometry). The DEXA test can measure the whole body but usually the lower spine and hips. A major disadvantage of DEXA is that currently there is a lack of standardization in bone and soft tissue measurements. Furthermore, for a given manufacturer, results may vary by the model of the instrument, the mode of operation or the version of the software used to analyze the data. In addition to that, DEXA scan images are only for the confirmation of correct positioning of the patient and correct placement of the regions of interest (ROI). Motivated by the above issues, this paper can pave a way for analysis in the measurement of BMD, measurement of T-score, and Z-score from the DEXA scan images. This proposed methodology includes segmentation algorithms such as k means clustering & mean –shift algorithm and comparison of the accuracy of algorithms. Also in addition, a novel mathematical analysis is also proposed to measure the T–score values in DEXA images with a new parameter ‘S’ from BMD values in order to detect the osteoporosis condition accurately.
Acacia Gerrardii Leaf Extracts Inhibit Genetic Diversity Induced by Streptozotocin in Male Rats
Authors: Aldhahrani Adil , Althobaiti Fayez
Published: January 2020

This study investigated the prevention effect of Acacia gerrardii leaf extracts on genetic variation in male rats exposed to streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Male rats (n=70) were treated with A. gerrardii leaf extract using concentrations ranging from 100 to 500 mg/kg body weight/day for four weeks against streptozotocin-induced possibly genetic variation. Blood samples and pancreatic tissues were collected at the end of the experiment. Ten Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat primers and ten Start Codon Targeted Polymorphism primers were used to detect genetic variations between the different groups. The biochemical results indicated a reduction in serum glucose levels, especially at doses of 400 and 500 mg/kg body weight. Molecular analysis showed that Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat primers and SCoT detected 119 and 97 amplicons, with 0.43% and 0.55% polymorphic respectively. Based on the previous markers analyzed, cluster analysis revealed that genetic variation was high in the pancreatic tissues of streptozotocin-treated rats in the groups treated with 0 (C+) > 100 (T1) > 200 (T2) > 300 (T3) mg/kg body weight/day. However, low genetic variation was observed in the pancreatic tissues of streptozotocin-treated rats in the groups treated with 400 (T4) > 500 (T5) mg/kg body weight/day. These results indicate that the A. gerrardii leaf extracts are rich in antioxidants preventing genetic variation in the pancreatic tissues. Therefore, A. gerrardii leaf extracts could be recommended as good source of dietary antioxidant
Amelioration of Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation by Saroglitazar, A Dual PPARα/γ Agonist in MES Induced Epileptic Rats
Authors: Rani Panigrahy Snigdha , Pradhan Supriya , Sekhar Maharana Chandra
Published: January 2020

Oxidative stress and neuroinflammatory process are implicated in pathophysiology of epilepsy as well as epileptogenesis. The α and γ isoform of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) agonist has been reported to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. We hypothesized that saroglitazar, a dual PPAR-α and PPAR-γ agonist may ameliorate oxidative stress and neuroinflammatory process in MES induced epileptic rats. A total of 36 rats were randomized to different groups (n=6). Group I served as normal control, while in the remaining groups (group IV, V and VI) animals were pre-treated with saroglitazar for 15 days prior to inducing MES. Group I animals were pre-treated with vehicle and group-III with diazepam (2mg/kg). Epilepsy was induced in rats and time taken for onset of tonic hind limb extension (THLE), duration of THLE, duration of clonic phase and recovery time in seconds were noted. Brain SOD and MDA levels were assessed and immunohistochemical analysis was done to evaluate the expression of inflammatory marker COX-2. Pre-treatment with saroglitazar was effective against tonic clonic seizure in MES treated rats. SOD levels significantly increased and a significant reduction in MDA levels with a remarkable decrease in the uptake of COX-2 antibody were reported. Saroglitazar attenuated MES induced epilepsy and the probable underlying mechanisms are due to the inhibition of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation.
Expression of IL-10 in A.actinomycetemcomitans Induced Rat Treated by Purple Miana Leaves
Authors: Khairi Amsyah Ummul , Hatta Mochammad , Tahir Hasanuddin , Alam Gemini , Asmawati Asmawati
Published: January 2020

Periodontitis therapy originating from local natural resources is still lacking so it needs to be researched and developed, one of the natural resources from Soppeng Regency in South Sulawesi, Indonesia is the purple miana leaf. It has not been reported before about the effect of purple miana leaf extract on periodontitis related to IL-10 mRNA expression. This study aims to determine the effect of purple miana leaf extract on IL-10 mRNA expression in rat induced by Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Rats were divided into three groups, purple miana leaf extract (PMLE), negative control (aquades), antibiotic (levofloxacin nine mg/kg body weight) as positive control. Rat blood was drawn before (H1) and after induction of 3x108 cfu/ml Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in the gingival sulcus of the mandibular anterior teeth/after periodontitis (H8) and seven days after intervention (H15). IL 10 mRNA expression was measured by Real-time PCR. The results obtained are processed using SPSS. There were no significant differences in H1-H8 in all groups. IL-10 mRNA expression on H8-H15 has a different pattern between PMLE, negative control and positive control. In the negative control, there was a decrease in IL-10 mRNA expression in H8-H15. In PMLE and positive control, an increase in IL-10 mRNA expression. The treatment of purple miana leaf extract in rat induced with Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans significantly had the same effect as levofloxacin on IL-10 mRNA expression.
MULTI-CRITERIA ANALYSIS TO IMPROVE THE SERVICE IN GAS STATIONS
Authors: Gonzalez Francisco , Pradenas Lorena
Published: January 2020

In developing countries, oil consumption corresponds to 56% of total energy consumption. This generates competition between supply points, which are gas stations. Given the scarce differentiation between these supply points and low margins for sales, the strategy adopted by these service stations depends on the correct identification of both external and internal factors. In the present study, six multi-criteria techniques and a “strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats” (SWOT) analysis are proposed to quantitatively evaluate the factors that affect a specific network of gas stations. A total of two sets of results are obtained and it was determined for the chosen set of analysis that the recommended alternative is the improvement of training for personnel and image of the brand. The factor with the greatest weight is the low operational risk of compliance with emergency regulations. The differences in the results cause some factors to be more important than others and the proposed implementation to be contrary to expectations. The contribution of this study is the analysis of the performance of different multi-criteria tools in an actual case using the same data source.
Synthesis and Characterization of Silicate Gel by using Sol-gel Process: Experiments and DFT calculations
Authors: Chaair Hassan , Driouich Anas , El hassani Safae El alami , Chajri Fatimazahra , Britel Ouafae , Digua Khalid
Published: January 2020

The synthesis of geopolymers requires the formation of an irreversible gel. This gel is produced by the sol-gel process using sodium silicate and hydrochloric acid reagents. On the one hand, the experimental study of the gelling reaction shows that for concentrations of hydrochloric acid varying between 0.5-2.0 mol/L and concentration of sodium silicate varying between 1.0-6.0 mol/L, three reaction products are obtained. The first product is a clear solution, the second product is a reversible gel, and the last product is an irreversible gel. The products obtained are characterized by SEM, X-Ray Diffraction, FTIR spectroscopy and EDS Spectroscopy techniques. The microstructural analyzes of the two gels revealed that these obtained solids are almost similar whereas the structural and elementary analyzes show that the silica content in the irreversible gel is higher than the silica content in the reversible gel. On the other hand, the theoretical study of the reactivity of gelling, defined via the conceptual density functional theory (CDFT) combined with functional B3LYP function with a 6-31G base (d). They are allowed us to define the global and local reactivity indexes of two reagents, sodium silicate and hydrochloric acid.
Frequency tracking out-of-lock control in a resonator fiber-optic gyro
Authors: Lei Ming , Yu Huaiyong , Fang Yuan , Feng Zhe , Wu Yanji , Zhang Lizhe
Published: January 2020

A resonator fiber-optic gyro (RFOG) is being pursued because of its theoretical potential to meet navigation-grade performance with small size, high precision, and lower cost. The stability of the RFOG operation is based on the synchronization of laser frequency to the fiber ring resonator (FRR) resonance frequency. Frequency tracking out-of-lock will lead to peak pulse and zero-bias change at the output of the RFOG, which seriously degrades the performance. First, the influence mechanism of frequency tracking out-of-lock is analyzed. The change of current and temperature in frequency tracking and the symmetry change caused by backscatter and polarization are the main reasons for the peak pulse and zero-bias error. Second, a scheme of out-of-lock control of the RFOG based on temperature closed-loop operation using digital signal processing is proposed. The improved scheme, signal processing, and implementation method are investigated in detail. Finally, a RFOG prototype is assembled and tested, and 10 min tracking of the laser frequency to the FRR’s single-resonance frequency is realized by temperature closed-loop operation. The static performance of the RFOG over 1 h shows that the RFOG output errors caused by frequency tracking out-of-lock are successfully eliminated. The output peak pulse is reduced from 3000 to 200 deg/h, the zero bias is eliminated from 50 to 600 deg/h to 0, and the bias stability of the RFOG is improved from 15.2 to 1.85 deg/h, which indicates a remarkable advance in the performance of the RFOG to satisfy civil navigation application requirements.
Microsphere-assisted interferometry with high numerical apertures for 3D topography measurements
Authors: Hüser Lucie , Lehmann Peter
Published: January 2020

Improving the lateral resolution is a key focus of the research on
optical measuring systems to expand the fields of application for
optical metrology. By means of microspheres put on an object in a
microscope, and therefore used as a near-field support, it has already
been shown that a superresolution of structures below Abbe’s
diffraction limit is possible. The following investigations give more
detailed theoretical and experimental insight into the physical
mechanisms responsible for the transition of near-field information to
the far field. In particular, the effects of microspheres as
near-field support on the behavior of phase-evaluating interference
microscopes close to the optical resolution limit are studied
experimentally as well as with numerical simulations. Special
attention is drawn to measured data taken with a Linnik microscope of
high numerical aperture. Finally, the measurement results of grating
structures with a period below Abbe’s diffraction limit are
presented.
Designing a multi-quantum-dot-doped wavelength down-shifting model of c-Si solar cells by using machine learning
Authors: Ren Binjie , Jiang Chun
Published: January 2020

The efficiency of solar cell energy conversion may be significantly improved by better exploitation of the original solar spectrum. In this paper, we propose a multi-quantum-dot-doped wavelength down-shifting (WDS) model that can reduce the energy loss resulting from the mismatch between the solar spectrum and the solar cell material’s responsivity. The WDS layer can nearly perfectly absorb the photons in the range of 300 to 700 nm and then re-emit them at a longer wavelength. The distribution of quantum dots in the WDS layer is provided based on analysis of its spectral properties with a machine learning regression algorithm. Finally, the relationship between the optimizing ability of the model and the Stokes shift of the quantum dots is also discussed. Ideally, our model can provide up to 29% improvement to the external quantum efficiency of c-Si solar cells, which fully demonstrates the potential of our model.
Pore size assessment using gas in scattering media absorption spectroscopy and gas adsorption
Authors: Al-Saudi Ahmed , Aljalal Abdulaziz , Al-Basheer Watheq , Gasmi Khaled , Qari Samer
Published: January 2020

Here, we investigate effects of the size of pores in porous alumina powders on the broadening of the oxygen gas absorption line. The line broadening is caused by collisions of oxygen molecules with the pore walls and is extracted using gas in scattering media absorption spectroscopy (GASMAS), while the average pore size is determined using the gas adsorption technique. The average pore size of the samples studied lies within the range 10–40 nm. In this range, the contribution of the wall collision broadening is found to be approximately inversely related to the average pore diameter. Furthermore, the confined oxygen gas absorbance measured by GASMAS is found to be linearly correlated with the effective porosity evaluated by the saturation method.
Broadband astigmatism-free Offner imaging spectrometer with high resolution
Authors: Lin Jing , Wu Su , Yu Lei
Published: January 2020

An advanced optical design has been proposed for an astigmatism-free Offner imaging spectrometer with high resolution in the broadband spectrum. The anastigmatic theory is thoroughly analyzed. Astigmatism is corrected by two pairs of lens-mirror combinations. On the basis of the concentric structure, the lens is used to make the meridional image distance equal to sagittal image distance. An example of the design has been presented with f-number of 3 working in 400–1000 nm according to the optimized theory. By the ray-tracing results, the spectral sampling is 0.6nm/pixel, and the RMS spots radii in all fields of view are less than 5 µm. The spectral keystone distortion and smile distortion are less than 0.1%. The prototype is manufactured based on theory and tolerance analysis. The achieved prototype has advantages of high spectral resolution (3 nm) and compact configuration.
Tellurium-nanorod-based saturable absorber for an ultrafast passive mode-locked erbium-doped fiber laser
Authors: Hassan Hiba , Munshid Mohammed A. , AL-Janabi Abdulhadi
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we propose and demonstrate ultrafast Te nanorods as a saturable absorber (SA) for producing mode locking from an erbium-doped fiber laser for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. The Te nanorods were fabricated by a simple green chemical method with energy conservation and without a purification process. The morphology and structure measurements confirm uniform Te nanorods with a constant aspect ratio. The synthesized SA has a saturation intensity and modulation depth of

25.44

M
W

/

c
m

2

and 4%, respectively. By integrating the proposed SA into an erbium-doped all fiber-based ring cavity, the mode-locked fiber laser was readily generated. The conventional soliton pulses of

3.56

p
s

pulse width were obtained at 1566.7 nm central wavelength and a pulse repetition rate of 1.87 MHz. The results show that the moderate saturable-absorption characteristics of Te nanorods have superior performance in the ultrafast optics field, which is eligible in many applications, such as optical communications.
Diffraction-based technology for the monitoring of contraction dynamics in 3D and 2D tissue models
Authors: Le Harzic Ronan , Meiser Ina , Neubauer Julia C. , Riemann Iris , Schiffer Michael , Stracke Frank , Zimmermann Heiko
Published: January 2020

We present a novel optical device developed for the monitoring of dynamic behavior in extended 3D-tissue models in various culture environments based on variations in their speckle patterns. The results presented point out the benefit of the technology in terms of detection, accuracy, sensitivity and a reasonable read-out speed as well as reproducibility for the measurements and monitoring of cardiac contractions. We show that the optical read-out technology is suitable for long time monitoring and for drug screening. The method is discussed and compared to other techniques, in particular calcium imaging. The device is flexible and easily adaptable to 2D and 3D-tissue model screenings using different culture environments. The technology can be parallelized for automated read-out of different multi-well-plate formats.
Comparison of digital signal processing approaches for subcarrier multiplexed 5G and beyond analog fronthaul
Authors: Noor Shabnam , Assimakopoulos Philippos , Wang Minqi , Abdulsada Hazim A. , Genay Naveena , Neto Luiz Anet , Chanclou Philippe , Gomes Nathan J.
Published: January 2020

Analog fronthaul transport architectures with digital signal processing at the end stations are promising, as they have the potential to achieve high spectral efficiencies, increased flexibility, and reduced latency. In this paper, two digital techniques for frequency-domain multiplexing/demultiplexing large numbers of channels are contrasted: one operates on the pre-inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) “frequency-domain” samples, while the other does so on the post-IFFT “time-domain” samples. Performance criteria, including computational complexity and sampling rate requirements, are used in the comparison. Following modeling and simulation of the techniques, implemented within a radio-over-fiber transport architecture, error vector magnitude performance estimates are obtained. These results show that each technique has performance advantages under specific channel transport scenarios.