bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
X-ray and back-wall echo ultrasonic examination of wrought iron building structures
Authors: Vidovszky István , Kiss Jenő
Published: December 2008

The wrought iron building structures constituting part of the architectural heritage, e. g. handrails, gate hinges, columns, arch ties and wall ties represent incorporeal value, but operate as load bearing structures as well. There are few information on their mechanical properties and quality. Due to the inhomogeneity of the material of wrought iron building structures generated during the production, the known metal testing methods, as the tensile and hardness tests or metallographic examination, are not enough to survey the properties of such structures in depth. For the further and more accurate examinations, the application of X-ray and back-wall echo ultrasonic tests are essential. The goal of our paper is the presentation of the application of the examinations used extensively in the machine industry for the testing of wrought iron building structures.
IWA best practice and performance indicators for water utilities in Serbia: Case study Pirot
Authors: Radivojevic Dragan , Milicevic Dragan , Blagojevic Borislava
Published: December 2008

Active water loss management has become one of the primary interests of the water utilities in the world. Due to efforts of the IWA Task Force in the last decade, traditional approach of water loss expression in percentage of system input values has been proven to be misleading in may cases, and new way of performance measuring and benchmarking is proposed. This paper presents the basic principles of this methodology and results of the first step in attempt to approach Serbian water utilities performance according to new standards. Pirot water supply system is used as a case study to estimate pressure reducing impact on technical performance indictor values before introducing active leakage control.
Environmental evaluation of building materials: Example of two residential buildings in Belgrade
Authors: Radivojevic Ana , Nedic Milos
Published: December 2008

Environmental friendliness of building materials becomes an important factor in contemporary design and building concept and prerequisite for creation of sustainable buildings, e.g. sustainable architecture. Since in our circumstances, this concept is still at its very beginning, it would be interesting to determine what the answer that our building practice has offered so far has been. Therefore, typical buildings from Belgrade were chosen as models on which evaluation of environmental properties was conducted by using already developed evaluation methods and tools. Results of this research are presented in this work.
Application of the urban reconstruction methods in the central city area of Nis
Authors: Dinic Milena , Mitkovic Petar , Velev Jelena , Bogdanovic Ivana
Published: December 2008

The urban reconstruction nowadays is a future of a modern city. The subject of the urban reconstruction is primarily the historical nucleus of the city, as the most attractive urban unit and the city growth generator. That is why the issue of urban reconstruction of the central city area is extremely important. The city nucleus of Nis has undergone numerous transformations during its development from the fortified city, to the town with Oriental characteristics, to the modern city center of the polycentric city. Reconstruction of Nis as a medium-sized city, with the significant role in the system of Serbian center network, is the issue of the strategic importance for the economic development of the country. Considering the cultural and style diversity of the Nis center, the issue of its urban reconstruction is a very complex procedure. The application of the various methods of urban reconstruction, which have been used in the past decade, is demonstrated on three analyzed examples in the central city area of Nis. These methods have been selected in order to activate, improve and revive the central city area. The paper describes the regeneration principles of these areas and investigates whether they are similar to the current trends in the world.
Natural gas heating in Serbian settlements according to urbanity parameters
Authors: Brkic Dejan
Published: December 2008

Natural gas can be directly used for heating of flats by gas distribution system. Indirectly, heating power plant can disburse natural gas and deliver hot water or steam for heating of flats. Decision of optimal way for gas heating usage is done based on spatial disposal of building, number and size of buildings in settlement, etc. Optimal solution, between gas distribution and district heating system (local or district heating by natural gas), can be done according to methodology (model approach) shown in this paper. According to variety of Serbian settlements (in density, size and layout of buildings) model which has ability to represent their different characteristics is formed. This model could be simple and useful tool for initial decision about energy supply system.
Thermal behavior of ground talc mineral
Authors: Balek V. , Subrt J. , Pérez-Maqueda L.A. , Benes M. , Bountseva I.M. , Beckman I.N. , Pérez-Rodríguez J.L.
Published: December 2008

Microstructure development and thermal behavior of ground talc mineral samples (from locality Puebla de Lillo, Spain) was characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy(SEM),surface area measurements differential thermal analysis, thermogravimetry and emanation thermal analysis (ETA).A vibratory mill and grinding time 5 min. was used to prepare the ground talc sample. It was found that grinding caused an increase in the surface area of the natural talc from 3 m2g-1 to 110 m2g-1. A decrease of particle size after sample grinding was observed by SEM. The increase of structure disorder of the ground sample and the crystallite size reduction from 40 to 10 nm were determined from the XRD results. ETA results revealed a closing up of surface micro-cracks and healing of microstructure irregularities on heating in the range 200-500?C of both un-ground and ground talc samples. For the ground talc sample a crystallization of non-crystalline phase into orthorhombic enstatite was characterized as by a decrease of radon mobility in the range 785-825?C and by a DTA exothermal effect with the maximum at 830?C. ETA results were used for the assessment of transport properties of the talc samples on heating.
The synthesis and properties of the phases obtained by solid-solid reactions
Authors: Blonska-Tabero A. , Bosacka M. , Dabrowska G. , Filipek E. , Piz M. , Rychlowska-Himmel I. , Tabero P. , Tomaszewicz E.
Published: December 2008

The presented work encompasses the subject of the studies and the results obtained over the last years by the research workers of the Department of Inorganic Chemistry. They include mainly the studies on the reactivity of metal oxides, searching for new phases in binary and ternary systems of metal oxides as well as describing phase relations establishing in such systems. They also encompass works on the extensive characteristics of physico-chemical properties of the newly obtained compounds.
The effect of lanthanides on color properties of the (Bi2O3)0.7(Ln2O3)0.3 compounds
Authors: Sulcová P. , Proklesková E.
Published: December 2008

(Bi2O3)0.7(Ln2O3)0,3 solid solutions were synthesized as new inorganic yellow and orange pigments and their color properties have been investigated as possible ecological materials. The pigments were prepared by the solid state reaction of mixed oxides (Bi2O3)0.7(Ln2O3)0.3 of various rare earth cations (Ln = Eu, Gd, Tm, Yb and Lu). All the synthesized pigment samples were found to have color coordinates, low a* and high b* and exhibit the color from pale light yellow to orange. Reflectance spectra of the samples show high reflectance percentage in the 600 - 700 nm range. Characterization of the (Bi2O3)0.7(Ln2O3)0,3 solid solutions suggests that they have a potential to be alternative yellow colorants for paints, inks, plastics, and ceramics.
Thermal analysis study of polymer-to-ceramic conversion of organosilicon precursors
Authors: Galusek D. , Lencés Z. , Sajgalík P. , Riedel Ralf
Published: December 2008

The organosilicon precursors attract significant attention as substances, which upon heating in inert or reactive atmosphere convert directly to oxide or non-oxide ceramics, like nitrides, carbides, carbonitrides, boroncarbonitrides, oxycarbides, alons, etc. In characterisation, and in study of conversion of these polymers to ceramics thermal analysis plays an important role. The degree of cross-linking of the polymer vital for achievement of high ceramic yield is estimated with the use of thermal mechanical analysis (TMA). Decomposition of polymers and their conversion to ceramics is studied by the combination of differential thermal analysis (DTA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) thermogravimetry(TG), and mass spectrometry (MS). The use of these methods in study of the polymer-to-ceramic conversion is illustrated by case studies of a commercially available poly(allyl)carbosilane as the precursor of SiC, and a poly(hydridomethyl)silazane as the precursor of SiCN.
Generalized Ellingham diagrams for utilization in solid oxide fuel cells
Authors: Kishimoto H. , Yamaji K. , Brito M.E. , Horita T. , Yokokawa H.
Published: December 2008

Generalized Ellingham diagram for the P-O-H and the Ni-P-OH systems have been constructed to investigate thermodynamically the chemical stability of nickel anode against the gaseous impurities containing phosphorous compounds. In the same way as the original Ellingham diagram, the oxygen potential is used as the vertical axis, while the temperature is adopted as horizontal axis. For the P-O-H system which contains many gaseous species, the dominant areas of gaseous species are displayed with a parameter of their partial pressure in an analogous way to the aqueous species in the Pourbaix diagram. The multicomponent Ellingham diagram for the Ni-P-O-H system was constructed in a similar manner to the multicomponent Pourbaix diagram. The obtained diagrams have been discussed to examine the reactivity of nickel anodes with phosphorus compounds in SOFCs in terms of operational variables such as temperature, oxygen potential, overpotential under the anode polarization and so on.
Thermodynamic calculations in alloys Ti-Al, Ti-Fe, Al-Fe and Ti-Al-Fe
Authors: Kostov Ana , Friedrich B. , Zivkovic D.
Published: December 2008

Thermodynamic calculations of three binary Ti-based alloys: Ti-Al, Ti-Fe, and Al-Fe, as well as ternary alloy Ti-Al-Fe, is shown in this paper. Thermodynamic calculations involved thermodynamic determination of activities, coefficient of activities, partial and integral values for enthalpies and Gibbs energies of mixing and excess energies at different temperatures: 1873K, 2000K and 2073K, as well as calculated phase diagrams for the investigated binary and ternary systems. The FactSage is used for all thermodynamic calculations.
Development of oxidation heat of the coal left in the mined-out area of a longwall face: Modelling using the fluent software
Authors: Taraba B. , Slovak V. , Michalec Z. , Chura J. , Taufer A.
Published: December 2008

A commercial CFD software program, Fluent, was used to study oxidation processes in the longwall mined-out (gob) area. A three-dimensional model of the gob area with an advancing coal face has been developed. For the model, typical oxidation behavior of a bituminous coal from the Ostrava-Karvin? District was incorporated as resulted from laboratory investigations. The longwall gob area was designed on the basis of the actual longwall face district. Detailed measurements in the district then enabled re-verification of the model outputs with actual data in situ. The main attention was paid to modelling the effect of grain size of the coal left in the mined-out area on the oxidation heat and gases evolution. Numerical simulations confirmed the existence of an 'optimal' zone for intense development of the spontaneous heating process in the gob area.
Effect of solid fraction on the mechanical properties of thixomolded magnesium alloys
Authors: Goryany V. , Mauk P.J.
Published: December 2008

The higher the fraction of solid phase in the partly solidified melt during pouring, the poorer the mechanical properties of thixocast components. The solid fraction decreases as the pouring temperature rises. Recommended temperature profiles for the pouring cylinder are shown. The flow characteristics of the partly solidified melt hardly changes as the content of solid matter increases.
The effect of antimony presence in anodic copper on kinetics and mechanism of anodic dissolution and cathodic deposition of copper
Authors: Stankovic Z.D. , Cvetkovski V. , Vukovic M.
Published: December 2008

The influence of the presence of Sb atoms, as foreign metal atoms in anode copper, on kinetics, and, on the mechanism of anodic dissolution and cathodic deposition of copper in acidic sulfate solution has been investigated. The galvanostatic single-pulse method has been used. Results indicate that presence of Sb atoms in anode copper increase the exchange current density as determined from the Tafel analysis of the electrode reaction. It is attributed to the increase of the crystal lattice parameter determined from XRD analysis of the electrode material.
Voltammetric investigations of anodic dissolution of natural mineral chalcopyrite
Authors: Vukovic M. , Stankovic Z.D. , Rajcic-Vujasinovic M. , Cvetkovski V.
Published: December 2008

Anodic oxidation of the natural mineral chalcopyrite from the Bor ore deposit has been studied by cyclic voltammetry in pure sulfuric acid solutions. At the obtained voltammograms, the appearance of peaks at certain potential regions was identified and found to be much less pronounced than those previously reported in the literature. The voltammetric kinetic analysis confirmed that two-electron exchange electrochemical reactions occur. The explanation for this somewhat different electrochemical behavior of natural chalcopyrite compared to the concentrates widely used in studies of this mineral will also be given.
Influence of pressure and time on extraction process using supercritical CO2
Authors: Micic V. , Lepojevic Z. , Mandic B. , Jotanovic M. , Tadic G. , Tolic A.
Published: December 2008

The supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) by carbon dioxide (CO2) of Salvia officinalis L. was investigated. SFE by CO2 was performed at different pressure (80, 100, 150, 200 and 300 bar) and constant temperature of 40?C (all other extraction conditions, such are flow rate, particle diameter of Salvia officinalis, extraction time were kept constant. The GC-MS method was used for determination of qualitative and quantitative composition of obtained extracts and essential oils.
Finite difference approximation of strong solutions of a parabolic interface problem on disconnected domains
Authors: Jovanovic Bosko , Vulkov Lubin
Published: December 2008

We investigate an initial boundary value problem for one dimensional parabolic equation in two disconnected intervals. A finite difference scheme for its solution is proposed and investigated. Convergence rate estimate compatible with the smoothness of input data is obtained.
Convoluted C-groups
Authors: Kostic Marko
Published: December 2008

We introduce and systematically analyze the class of convoluted C-groups unifying the well known classes of fractionally integrated groups and C-regularized groups. We relate convoluted C-groups to analytic convoluted C-semigroups and present illustrative examples of differential operators which generate exponentially bounded convoluted groups.
Comparison of some solution concepts for linear first-order hyperbolic differential equations with non-smooth coefficients
Authors: Haller Simon , Hörmann Günther
Published: December 2008

We discuss solution concepts for linear hyperbolic equations with coefficients of regularity below Lipschitz continuity. Thereby our focus is on theories which are based either on a generalization of the method of characteristics or on refined techniques concerning energy estimates. We provide a series of examples both as simple illustrations of the notions and conditions involved but also to show logical independence among the concepts.
Structural theorems for quasiasymptotics of distributions at infinity
Authors: Vindas Jasson
Published: December 2008

Complete structural theorems for quasiasymptotics of distributions are presented in this article. For this, asymptotically homogeneous functions and associate asymptotically homogeneous functions at infinity with respect to a slowly varying function are employed. The proposed analysis, based on the concept of asymptotically and associate asymptotically homogeneous functions, allows to obtain easier proofs of the structural theorems for quasiasymptotics at infinity in the so far only known case: when the degree of the quasiasymptotic is not a negative integer. Furthermore, new structural theorems for the case of negative integral degrees are obtained by this method.
Implicit vs. explicit learning in German noun plurals
Authors: Kovic Vanja , Westermann Gert , Plunkett Kim
Published: December 2008

Over the past few decades there has been a lot of debate about language learning and the opinion about the status of mental rule during the process of language learning is still divided between different researches. The present study examines learning morphology of German noun plurals based on rules, examples or on both, rules and examples. The results across these three experimental conditions suggest that the morphological patterns are learned more easily in the form of rules and thus, seem to be more easily captured by dual-route (which suggest that rules and exceptions are processed by two qualitatively different mechanisms) than single route theories (which suggest a singe mechanism for processing both rules and exceptions). However, a closer examination of error patterns across the five rules (-e, -n, -er, ?, -s) revealed results confronting dual-route theories and suggest the existence of two rulemechanisms (-n and -s) rather than one for learning regular inflection in German plural nouns. Moreover, the second rule (with plural ending -n) was the easiest one to be learned, although it is the fifth rule (with plural ending -s) which is considered as a default rule in German.
Political tolerance in Serbia and Europe: Social and psychological roots
Authors: Todosijevic Bojan
Published: December 2008

Tolerance of political opponents is one of the basic preconditions of a democratic society. Empirical research, however, typically reveals low levels of tolerance even in societies with long democratic tradition. This paper presents a comparative study of the sources of individual differences in the degree of political tolerance in Europe, with special reference to Serbia. According to Sullivan et al.'s theory (Sullivan et al. 1979, 53-55), socio-demographic factors are decisive for the choice of a group towards which the intolerance will be directed, while psychological factors are more important for the level of intolerance. Implications of this theory are examined using data collected in about 30 European countries. The research is based on World Values Survey data (WVS). The WVS data include the so-called 'least- liked' operationalization of political intolerance. The findings reveal significant impact of psychological factors on the target group selection, and not only on the degree of intolerance, contrary to Sullivan et al.'s theory.
Factor structure of intelligence test battery KOG9
Authors: Lazarevic Ljiljana , Knezevic Goran
Published: December 2008

Authors of Cybernetic model of cognitive functioning designed a battery of tests (KOG9), based on the model in order to assess cognitive efficiency. Authors assert that scale's factor structure comprises the three factors: perceptive, serial and parallel processing. Results of the previous research as well as the logical analysis of the origin and content of the tests suggested the possibility that more parsimonious two-factor solution can explain the structure of the correlations among them equally well. KOG9 battery was administered to 1116 students of Faculty of sport and physical education and students from Department of Psychology in order to study its latent structure. In spite of the fact that factor congruence analyses suggested higher robustness (cross-sample stability) of the two-factor solution, results of both EFA and CFA spoke in favor of the three-factor solution. The problem of the lack of stability of the three-factor solution was located in not particularly well targeted choice of the markers of the efficacy of perceptual processing. The suggestion is to preserve the calculation of all three group scores, with some corrections. First of all, tests CF2 and/or GT7 should be replaced by some other perceptual test/tests of lower cognitive complexity. Some of the tests tapping parallel processing should be replaced by those more in line with the logic of the model.
Dialogical PISA: development of competence through social interaction in different contexts
Authors: Baucal Aleksandar , Jovanovic Vitomir
Published: December 2008

The main goal of the research was to study how children develop new competencies through social interaction in different contexts. The pre-post test experimental design was used. In the pre-test students were assessed by the PISA 2003 test of mathematics, and based on the results three equal groups for treatment phase were formed. In the treatment phase students from the three groups were solving 5 additional PISA items from the zone of proximal development (ZPD) under three different conditions: group IV - collaboration with an equally competent peer in the out-of-school setting with opportunity to consult others and to use available cultural tools (N=22), group IO - collaboration with an adult who deliver gradual levels of help (N=22), and group KG - individual item solving (N=25). The quantitative analysis showed that all three groups progressed, and group IV (children who collaborated with an equally competent peer in out-of-school setting) progressed more than other two groups. The qualitative analysis suggested that children who progressed most reported on the interview that they had the most symmetric collaboration and managed to rich consensus in spite of difficulties accompanied with the process of joint thinking ('discourse equality'). It shows also that children who were involved in collaboration where partner dominated interaction ('discourse inequality') did not progress or even regressed. Results also show that wider social context made an effect on interaction between partners.
Self concept and adolescents' representations of significant others' images of them
Authors: Krstic Ksenija
Published: December 2008

The main idea for this research is based on the assumptions of social interactionism. Adolescents representations of how they parents and friends see them are examined on the sample of 499 adolescents (12/13 i 16/17 years). In the structure of these representations EFA extracted five (for parents) and four dimensions (for friends): 1. prosociality, 2. sociability, 3. character and ambitiosness, 4. bed temper, and 5. maturity. First four dimensions have the same meaning in the booth structures, and they are equivalent to the dimensions of adolescents self-concept. Structures of these representations do not change between two examined ages. Canonical correlation showed that adolescents representations of how significant others see them, have influence on their self-concept, and that during the period of middle adolescence, information from peers are more significant.
The total mass of the early-type galaxy NGC 4649 (M60)
Authors: Samurovic S. , Cirkovic M.M.
Published: December 2008

In this paper the problem of the total mass and the total mass-to-light ratio of the early-type galaxy NGC 4649 (M60) is analyzed. Use is made of two independent techniques: the X-ray methodology which is based on the temperature of the X-ray halo of NGC 4649 and the tracer mass estimator (TME) which uses globular clusters (GCs) observed in this galaxy. The mass is calculated in Newtonian and Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) approaches and it is found that inside 3 effective radii (Re ) there is no need for large amounts of dark matter. Beyond 3Re the dark matter starts to play important dynamical role. The possible reasons for the discrepancy between the estimates of the total mass based on X-rays and TME in the outer regions of NGC 4649 are also discussed.
The disk emission in single peaked lines for 12 AGNs
Authors: Bon E.
Published: December 2008

The disk emission in the single peaked Broad Emission Lines (BELs) of Active Galactic Nuclei (AGNs) is difficult to detect. In order to find the disk traces in BELs the line profiles were simulated by the simplified model consisting of two components: accretion disk and surrounding spherical region with isotropic velocities of clouds. The measurements of simulated profiles were compared with the measurements of observed single-peaked H? and H? profiles of 12 AGNs, that had been previously confirmed to show the accretion disk presence in the X domain. The results are in agreement with previous investigations.
The fractional virial potential energy in two-component systems
Authors: Caimmi R. , Valentinuzzi T.
Published: December 2008

Two-component systems are conceived as macrogases, and the related equation of state is expressed using the virial theorem for subsystems, under the restriction of homeoidally striated density profiles. Explicit calculations are performed for a useful reference case and a few cases of astrophysical interest, both with and without truncation radius. Shallower density profiles are found to yield an equation of state, ? = ?(y, m), characterized (for assigned values of the fractional mass, m = Mj /Mi ) by the occurrence of two extremum points, a minimum and a maximum, as found in an earlier attempt. Steeper density profiles produce a similar equation of state, which implies that a special value of m is related to a critical curve where the above mentioned extremum points reduce to a single horizontal inflexion point, and curves below the critical one show no extremum points. The similarity of the isofractional mass curves to van der Waals' isothermal curves, suggests the possibility of a phase transition in a bell-shaped region of the (Oy?) plane, where the fractional truncation radius along a selected direction is y = Rj /Ri , and the fractional virial potential energy is ? = (Eji )vir /(Eij )vir . Further investigation is devoted to mass distributions described by Hernquist (1990) density profiles, for which an additional relation can be used to represent a sample of N = 16 elliptical galaxies (EGs) on the (Oy?) plane. Even if the evolution of elliptical galaxies and their hosting dark matter (DM) haloes, in the light of the model, has been characterized by equal fractional mass, m, and equal scaled truncation radius, or concentration, ?u = Ru /r? , u = i, j, still it cannot be considered as strictly homologous, due to different values of fractional truncation radii, y, or fractional scaling radii, y? = r? /r? , deduced from sample objects.
Galactic subsystems on the basis of cumulative distribution of space velocities
Authors: Vidojevic S. , Ninkovic S.
Published: December 2008

A sample containing 4 614 stars with available space velocities and high-quality kinematical data from the Arihip Catalogue is formed. For the purpose of distinguishing galactic subsystems the cumulative distribution of space velocities is studied. The fractions of the three subsystems are found to be: thin disc 92%, thick disc 6% and halo 2%. These results are verified by analyzing the elements of velocity ellipsoids and the shape and size of the galactocentric orbits of the sample stars, i.e. the planar and vertical eccentricities of the orbits.
Envelopes of cometary orbits
Authors: Mijajlovic Z. , Pejovic N. , Damljanovic G. , Ciric D.
Published: December 2008

We discuss cometary orbits from the standpoint of Nonstandard (Leibnitz) analysis, a relatively new branch of mathematics. In particular, we consider parabolic cometary paths. It appears that, in a sense, every parabola is an ellipse.
On some optimization problems in not necessarily locally convex space
Authors: Gajic Ljiljana
Published: December 2008

In this note, by using O. Hadzic's generalization of a fixed point theorem of Himmelberg, we prove a non - cooperative equilibrium existence theorem in non - compact settings and a generalization of an existence theorem for non - compact infinite optimization problems, all in not necessarily locally convex spaces.
Application of some graph invariants to the analysis of multiprocessor interconnection networks
Authors: Cvetkovic Dragos , Davidovic Tatjana
Published: December 2008

Let G be a graph with diameter D, maximum vertex degree ?, the largest eigenvalue ?1 and m distinct eigenvalues. The products m? and (D+1) ?1 are called the tightness of G of the first and second type, respectively. In the recent literature it was suggested that graphs with a small tightness of the first type are good models for the multiprocessor interconnection networks. We study these and some other types of tightness and some related graph invariants and demonstrate their usefulness in the analysis of multiprocessor interconnection networks. Tightness values for graphs of some standard interconnection networks are determined. We also present some facts showing that the tightness of the second type is a relevant graph invariant. We prove that the number of connected graphs with a bounded tightness is finite.
A comparative analysis of the DEA-CCR model and the VIKOR method
Authors: Opricovic Serafim , Tzeng Gwo-Hshiung
Published: December 2008

Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) introduces a model for weights determination maximizing efficiency of the decision-making units. The primary focus of the DEA model is to compare decision-making units (alternatives) in terms of their efficiency in converting inputs into outputs. The multicriteria decision making (MCDM) method VIKOR uses a common set of weights expressing a decision maker's preferences. In contrast, the CCR model of DEA does not provide a common set of weights that could express the preferences of a decision maker. The weights in MCDM do not have a clear economic significance, but their use provides the opportunity to model the real aspects of decision making, such as the preference structure. A comparison of DEA and MCDM shows that DEA resembles MCDM, but the results differ. In spite of these differences, DEA could be used as a supplement for screening alternatives within MCDM. An application of DEA and MCDM is illustrated by an example of hydropower system planning.
Optimal pricing and lot-sizing decisions under Weibull distribution deterioration and trade credit policy
Authors: Manna S.K. , Chaudhuri K.S. , Chiang C.
Published: December 2008

In this paper, we consider the problem of simultaneous determination of retail price and lot-size (RPLS) under the assumption that the supplier offers a fixed credit period to the retailer. It is assumed that the item in stock deteriorates over time at a rate that follows a two-parameter Weibull distribution and that the price-dependent demand is represented by a constant-price-elasticity function of retail price. The RPLS decision model is developed and solved analytically. Results are illustrated with the help of a base example. Computational results show that the supplier earns more profits when the credit period is greater than the replenishment cycle length. Sensitivity analysis of the solution to changes in the value of input parameters of the base example is also discussed.
Fuzzy model of the computer integrated decision support and management system in mineral processing
Authors: Miljanovic Igor , Vujic Slobodan
Published: December 2008

During the research on the subject of computer integrated systems for decision making and management support in mineral processing based on fuzzy logic, realized at the Department of Applied Computing and System Engineering of the Faculty of Mining and Geology, University of Belgrade, for the needs of doctoral thesis of the first author, and wider demands of the mineral industry, the incompleteness of the developed and contemporary computer integrated systems fuzzy models was noticed. The paper presents an original model with the seven staged hierarchical monitoring-management structure, in which the shortcomings of the models utilized today were eliminated.
The application of GIS and its components in tourism
Authors: Jovanovic Verka , Njegus Angelina
Published: December 2008

Since the success of any tourism business is determined by tourism planning, development research and marketing, the first thing we review in this article is GIS application for tourism planning. Both tourism and IT increasingly provide strategic opportunities and powerful tools for economic growth, redistribution of wealth and development of equity around the globe. GIS technology offers great opportunities for the development of modern tourism applications using maps. This technology integrates common database operations such as query with the unique visualization and geographic analysis benefits offered by maps. GIS is used for bringing the georeferenced data (spatial and non spatial) of geographic location Zlatibor and Zlatar into digital maps. Each object is assigned to a thematic layer. Each layer combines related objects like roads, building, protected areas or watercourses. In this research the authors used GIS in three types of applications such as inventory, analysis and evaluation of plan based on tourism development.
Comparison of Glycemic Variability Associated With Insulin Glargine and Intermediate-Acting Insulin When Used as the Basal Component of Multiple Daily Injections for Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: White Neil H. , Chase H. Peter , Arslanian Silva , Tamborlane William V. ,   for the 4030 Study Group
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE—To compare the glucose variability associated with insulin glargine and NPH/Lente insulin used as the basal insulin component of a multiple daily injection (MDI) regimen in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Continuous glucose monitoring data were collected from a subset of patients (n = 90) who agreed to use a continuous glucose monitoring system during an active-controlled, randomized, open-label study evaluating the safety and efficacy of insulin glargine and NPH/Lente insulin used with insulin lispro as part of an MDI regimen.

RESULTS—Treatment with insulin glargine resulted in significant reductions in glucose variability as measured by the SD of glucose values (adjusted mean change from baseline to week 24: −13.4 mg/dl [−0.74 mmol/l]; P ≤ 0.05), mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (−34.4 mg/dl [−1.91 mmol/l]; P ≤ 0.0001), and M value (−9.6 mg/dl [−0.53 mmol/l]; P ≤ 0.03). The corresponding reductions in glucose variability for NPH/Lente were not significant.

CONCLUSIONS—Insulin glargine is associated with greater reductions in glucose variability than NPH/Lente insulin in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes.
2-Amino-5-sulfanyl-1,3,4-thiadiazoles: A new series of selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors
Authors: Sharma Rajesh , Sainy Jitendra , Chaturvedi Subhash
Published: December 2008

2-Amino-5-sulfanyl-1,3,4-thiadiazoles: A new series of selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors

A new series of cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors with 2-amino--5-sulfanyl-1,3,4-thiadiazole as the central scaffold unit has been synthesized. The newly synthesized compounds were characterized by analytical and spectral methods. Compounds were screened for cyclooxygenase inhibitory activity by the colorimetric COX (ovine) inhibitor screening assay, anti-inflammatory activity by the carrageenean induced rat paw oedema test and analgesic activity by the tail flick method. Some compounds exhibited significant biological activity.
A study of rivastigmine liposomes for delivery into the brain through intranasal route
Authors: Arumugam Karthik , Subramanian Ganesa , Mallayasamy Surulivel , Averineni Ranjith , Reddy Meka , Udupa Nayanabhirama
Published: December 2008

A study of rivastigmine liposomes for delivery into the brain through intranasal route

The present study is mainly aimed at delivering a drug into the brainviathe intranasal route using a liposomal formulation. For this purpose, rivastigmine, which is used in the management of Alzheimer's disease, was selected as a model drug. Conventional liposomes were formulated by the lipid layer hydration method using cholesterol and soya lecithin as lipid components. The concentration of rivastigmine in brain and plasma after intranasal liposomes, free drug and per oral administration was studied in rat models. A significantly higher level of drug was found in the brain with intranasal liposomes of rivastigmine compared to the intranasal free drug and the oral route. Intranasal liposomes had a longer half-life in the brain than intranasally or orally administered free drug. Delivering rivastigmine liposomes through the intranasal route for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease might be a new approach to the management of this condition.
Development and validation of spectrophotometric methods for determination of ceftazidime in pharmaceutical dosage forms
Authors: Hiremath Basavaraj , Mruthyunjayaswamy Bennikallu
Published: December 2008

Development and validation of spectrophotometric methods for determination of ceftazidime in pharmaceutical dosage forms

Two spectrophotometric methods for the determination of ceftazidime (CFZM) in either pure form or in its pharmaceutical formulations are described. The first method is based on the reaction of 3-methylbenzothiazolin-2-one hydrazone (MBTH) with ceftazidime in the presence of ferric chloride in acidic medium. The resulting blue complex absorbs at λmax628 nm. The second method describes the reaction between the diazotized drug andN-(1-naphthyl)ethylenediamine dihydrochloride (NEDA) to yield a purple colored product with λmaxat 567 nm. The reaction conditions were optimized to obtain maximum color intensity. The absorbance was found to increase linearly with increasing the concentration of CFZM; the systems obeyed the Beer's law in the range 2-10 and 10-50 μg mL-1for MBTH and NEDA methods, resp.LOD, LOQand correlation coefficient values were 0.15, 0.79 and 0.50, 2.61. No interference was observed from common excipients present in pharmaceutical formulations. The proposed methods are simple, sensitive, accurate and suitable for quality control applications.
3D-QSAR studies for the binding affinity toward (R, S)-2-amino-3-(3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazol-4-yl)-propionic acid receptor
Authors: Sharma Ritesh , Thakar Hardik , Vasu Kamala , Chaturvedi Subhash
Published: December 2008

3D-QSAR studies for the binding affinity toward (R, S)-2-amino-3-(3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazol-4-yl)-propionic acid receptor

An approach for binding affinity evaluation is suggested and exemplified using a set of triazolo [1,5-a] quinoxaline for the (R, S)-2-amino-3-(3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazol--4-yl)-propionic acid (AMPA) receptor. Biological activity toward the AMPA receptor (expressed as --logIC50) was taken as a dependent variable for building Comparative Molecular Field Analysis (CoMFA) and Comparative Molecular Similarity Indices Analysis (CoMSIA) models. The resulting models show the ways of increasing the binding affinity to the AMPA receptor as a potential target for epilepsy. The statistically significant results show that the cross-validatedr2CVvalue (0.766) for the CoMFA model is greater than (0.758) for the CoMSIA model. The non-cross validated run giving the coefficient of determinationr2values of 0.944 and 0.919 for CoMFA and CoMSIA, respectively, provided good correlation between the observed and computed affinities of the training set compounds. The resulting CoMFA and CoMSIA models indicate that steric, electrostatic, hydrophobic (lipophilic), hydrogen bond donor and acceptor substituents play a significant role in increasing the binding affinity and selectivity of the compounds toward the AMPA receptor.
Development and in vitro evaluation of an acid buffering bioadhesive vaginal gel for mixed vaginal infections
Authors: Ahmad Farhan , Alam Mohd , Khan Zeenat , Khar Roop , Ali Mushir
Published: December 2008

Development andin vitroevaluation of an acid buffering bioadhesive vaginal gel for mixed vaginal infections

An acid buffering bioadhesive vaginal (ABBV) gel was developed for the treatment of mixed vaginal infections. Different bioadhesive polymers were evaluated on the basis of their bioadhesive strength, stability and drug release properties. Bioadhesion and release studies showed that guar gum, xanthan gum and hydroxypropyl methylcelullose K4M formed a good combination of bioadhesive polymers to develop the ABBV gel. Monosodium citrate was used as an acid buffering agent to provide acidic pH (4.4). The drugs clotrimazole (antifungal) and metronidazole (antiprotozoal as well as antibacterial) were used in the formulation along withLactobacillusspores to treat mixed vaginal infections. Theex vivoretention study showed that the bioadhesive polymers hold the gel for 12-13 hours inside the vaginal tube. Results of thein vitroantimicrobial study indicated that the ABBV gel had better antimicrobial action than the commercial intravaginal drug delivery systems and retention was prolonged in anex vivoretention experiment.
Effect of ampicillin and chloroquine on humoral immune response elicited by bovine albumin encapsulated in liposomes
Authors: Madan Jitender , Kaushik Dinesh , Sardana Satish , Mishra Dina , Singh Shalinder , Singh Binod
Published: December 2008

Effect of ampicillin and chloroquine on humoral immune response elicited by bovine albumin encapsulated in liposomes

Immune suppression resulting from chemoprophylaxis and potential drug interaction were investigated in experimental animals pre-medicated with ampicillin and chloroquine followed by immunization with bovine serum albumin bearing liposomes prepared by the reverse phase evaporation method. The prepared liposomes were evaluated for particle size, entrapment efficiency andin vitrorelease. Humoral immune response was measured in terms of systemic IgG antibody titre by the ELISA method. The present study showed that 7:3 molar ratio of soya phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol produced liposomes of mean diameter of 235.4 ± 10.3 nm and entrapment efficiency of 41.3 ± 3.2%. Ampicillin significantly (p< 0.05) decreased the antibody titre whereas chloroquine did not reduce the antibody titre significantly. The study will help in programming a new drug management and in characterization of vaccine-drug interaction.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of some 4-(1H-indol-3-yl)-6-phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidin-2-ones/thiones as potent anti-inflammatory agents
Authors: Amir Mohammad , Javed Sadique , Kumar Harish
Published: December 2008

Synthesis and biological evaluation of some 4-(1H-indol-3-yl)-6-phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidin-2-ones/thiones as potent anti-inflammatory agents

Twelve new 4-(1H-indol-3-yl)-6-phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidin-2-ones/thiones (7-18) have been synthesized by reacting 1-aryl-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)-2-propen-1-one with urea and thiourea in ethanolic potassium hydroxide. Their structures have been confirmed by IR, 1H NMR and mass spectral data. The compounds were tested for their anti-inflammatory activity. Test results revealed that compounds showed 49.5 to 70.7% anti-inflammatory activity where-as the standard drug ibuprofen showed 86.4% activity at the same oral dose. Four compounds, 4-(1H-indol-3-yl)-6-(4-chlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidin-2-one (8), 4-(1H-indol-3-yl)-6-(4-methylphenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidin-2-one (10), 4-(1H-indol-3-yl)-6-(4-chlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidin-2-thione (14), 4-(1H-indol-3-yl)-6-(4-methylphenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidin-2-thione (16), that showed significant anti-inflammatory activity were selected to study their ulcerogenic and lipid peroxidation activities. All tested compounds showed significant reduction in the ulcerogenic potential and lipid peroxidation compared to the standard drug ibuprofen.
Dry Grasslands in the Slovenský Kras MTS (Slovakia) and the Aggteleki-karszt MTS (Hungary) — A Comparison of Two Classification Approaches
Authors: Dübravková-Michálková Daniela , JanišOvá Monika , Kolbek Jiří , Šuvada Róbert , Virók Viktor , Zaliberová Mária
Published: December 2008

Dry Grasslands in the Slovenský Kras MTS (Slovakia) and the Aggteleki-karszt MTS (Hungary) — A Comparison of Two Classification Approaches

The paper brings numerical classification of 48 new phytosociological relevés of dry grassland vegetation from the Slovenský kras Mts and the Aggteleki-karszt Mts located on the border between Slovakia and Hungary (Central Europe). We performed a comparison of two classification approaches (an unsupervised method - modified TWINSPAN, and a supervised approach - electronic expert system based on formal definitions of associations), which were applied on the same dataset. Four associations were distinguished:Campanulo divergentiformis-Festucetum pallentisZólyomi (1936) 1966,Poo badensis-Caricetum humilis(Dostál 1933) Soó ex Michálková in Janišová et al. 2007,Alysso heterophylli-Festucetum valesiacae(Dostál 1933) Kliment in Kliment et al. 2000 andFestuco rupicolae-Caricetum humilisKlika 1939. A newly recorded stand of the rareStipetum tirsaeMeusel 1938 association is characterised. What is more, we established a neotype of theAlysso heterophylli-Festucetum valesiacaeassociation.
Application of Monetary Models of Exchange Rate Determination for Poland
Authors: Hsing Yu
Published: December 2008

Application of Monetary Models of Exchange Rate Determination for Poland

The zloty/USD exchange rate is examined based on the Dornbusch model, the Bilson model, the Frenkel model, and the Frankel model. Empirical results show that the coefficient of the relative money supply is positive and significant, that the coefficient of the relative output is negative and significant, and that the Bilson model or the Frenkel model applies to Poland. Hence, the nominal exchange rate is positively affected by the relative interest rate and the relative expected inflation rate. The Balassa-Samuelson effect is confirmed in both models. The Bilson model has a smaller root mean squared error or mean absolute percent error than the Frenkel model.
Farm and Non-farm Incomes of Rural Households in Slovenia Canonical Correlation Analysis
Authors: Möllers Judith , Fritzsch Jana , Buchenrieder Gertrud
Published: December 2008

Farm and Non-farm Incomes of Rural Households in Slovenia Canonical Correlation Analysis

This paper provides an analysis of socio-economic characteristics and their influence on farm and non-farm incomes of rural households in Slovenia. With the canonical correlation analysis we use a methodological approach that offers a true multivariate procedure for both sides of the equation. It thus goes beyond a simple pair-wise correlation analysis and also beyond multiple correlation analysis. This rather rarely used statistical method offers interesting insights into many fields of analytical applications. Our results confirm that rural households usually turn towards non-farm employment if distress-push factors prevail. Besides insufficient farm incomes, large household sizes push households into non-farm diversification. Employment opportunities in the non-farm sector- regardless of whether triggered by distress in the household or demand in the non-farm sector- depend strongly on education.
Impact of Leadership Styles on Employees' Organizational Commitment in Lithuanian Manufacturing Companies
Authors: Bučiūnienė Ilona , Škudienė Vida
Published: December 2008

Impact of Leadership Styles on Employees' Organizational Commitment in Lithuanian Manufacturing Companies

This article investigates the relationship between employees' organizational commitment dimensions and leadership styles in Lithuanian manufacturing companies. The findings of the study reveal positive correlations between a transformational leadership style and affective and normative employee commitments. A laissez-faire leadership style was found to be negatively associated with employees' affective commitment.