bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APHRODISIAC EFFECTS OF METHANOLIC LEAF EXTRACT OF PSEUDOPANAX ARBOREUS (ARALIACEAE) (L.F. PHILLIPSON) IN NORMAL MALE RATS
Authors: Besong Egbe B. , G. Ateufack , Kamanyi Albert , Moumbock Aurelien F.A.
Published: February 2019

Background:  The leaves of Pseudopanax arboreus have been used traditionally for decades as aphrodisiac without scientific investigation. In this study, the effects of methanolic leaf extract of P. arboreus were evaluated on sexual behavior of normal male rats.

Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight adult male rats were randomly grouped into 4 groups of 7 rats each. Rats in group 1 were treated with 10 ml/kg body weight distilled water, group 2 rats received 6mg/kg body weight Viagra™, while the rats in groups 3 and 4 were given 46.5 mg and 93mg/kg body weight respectively of the methanolic extract of the leaves of P. arboreus. Female rats were made receptive by ovariectomy and subsequent hormonal treatment. Sexual behavior parameters were monitored on days 1, 7, 14 and 21 by pairing each male rat to a receptive female. Relative weight of sex organs and hormonal (FSH, LH and testosterone) profile were also determined.

Results: Doses of 46.5 mg/kg and 93 mg/kg, the extract significantly increased the mount and intromission frequencies, penile licking and relative weight of sex organs and enhanced testosterone production; and significantly reduced mount and intromission latencies, mean intromission interval, when compared to the distilled water group. The 93 mg/kg body weight dose prolonged ejaculation latency and reduced post-ejaculatory interval. However, the reference drug, Viagra™ proved more efficient than the extract.

Conclusion: The methanolic extract of the leaves of P. arboreus possesses aphrodisiac properties which may be due to the actions of bioactive compounds present in the extract.
Direitos sociais, reserva do possível e o mínimo existencial: a aporia do meio adequado de satisfação
Authors: Schier Paulo Ricardo , Schier Adriana Ricardo
Published: February 2019

O debate sobre a forma de satisfação dos direitos sociais na teoria constitucional brasileira tem assumido dois caminhos diferentes. Em um primeiro momento, desconfiando da capacidade de atuação do Poder Executivo, apostou-se fortemente na via da judicialização dos direitos sociais. Todavia esse modelo, que conduziu ao debate sobre o conflito entre reserva do possível e mínimo existencial, revelou limites institucionais na forma de atuação do Poder Judiciário. Como consequência, parte das análises teóricas conduzem ao raciocínio de que o meio mais apropriado para a satisfação dos direitos sociais é a sua realização através do Poder Executivo, mediante a prestação de serviços públicos. Porém essa via também revela limites institucionais que acabam conduzindo os cidadãos a buscarem a concretização dos direitos no Poder Judiciário, gerando assim uma aporia.
Bens públicos na Constituição de 1988: repartição federativa, monopolização e classificação
Authors: Marrara Thiago
Published: February 2019

O presente artigo buscou analisar as contribuições da Constituição de 1988 para o avanço da teoria geral dos bens, assim como verificar o diálogo entre esta e o Código Civil. Notou-se que a Constituição em vigor falhou ao ignorar o novo modelo federativo, deixando de tratar dos bens municipais, referindo-se somente a bens federais e estaduais. Ademais, ao fazer referência a estes últimos, a Constituição não menciona a expressão “bens públicos”, assim como também não afirma que todos os bens estatais são públicos. Observou-se, então, que é necessário abandonar a concepção de bens públicos do direito administrativo a partir da noção relacionada à lógica civilista, somente, devendo-se haver a valorização da escala complexa de regimes jurídicos, que contempla a natureza do bem e suas funções fáticas.
O ativismo do Supremo Tribunal Federal e a ausência de critérios claros em matéria de direitos fundamentais
Authors: Figueiredo Marcelo
Published: February 2019

O Brasil adota dois sistemas básicos de controle da constitucionalidade: o sistema difuso de origem norte-americana e o sistema concentrado ou abstrato de controle de constitucionalidade de matriz européia. Através do controle concentrado, almeja-se expurgar do sistema lei ou ato normativo viciado (material ou formalmente), buscando-se, por conseguinte, a sua invalidação. O controle concentrado ou abstrato de constitucionalidade exercido pelo Supremo Tribunal Federal no Brasil é bem amplo e compreensivo. O Supremo Tribunal Federal tem feito um grande esforço para responder a uma gama enorme de temas e problemas regulados pela Constituição de 1988 e suas sucessivas emendas. Comentam-se casos em que são discutidos direitos fundamentais. Muitos o acusam de ser ativista, outros de não deixar claro quais os métodos e os critérios de interpretação constitucional que utiliza.
Políticas públicas consensuais e o estímulo à negociação pelo agente público
Authors: Varella Marcelo , Ferreira Filho Marcilio
Published: February 2019

O presente artigo tem por objetivo a análise da hipótese de que as políticas públicasconsensuais brasileiras não estimulam suficientemente o comportamento negociador do agente público e que devem ser agregadas novas técnicas para esse fim que não se restrinjam à mera alteração normativa. A atuação consensual da Administração Pública é uma perspectiva que rompe barreiras, especialmente diante da noção de verticalidade típica nas relações público-privadas do direito brasileiro. Em que pese isso, os números que tratam da litigiosidade no Brasil demonstram uma quantidade excessiva de conflitos submetidos ao Poder Judiciário, de maneira que as políticas públicas consensuais se sobressaem como uma técnica fundamental na solução de conflitos. Assim, busca-se com o presente artigo analisar como se apresenta o cenário brasileiro da consensualidade administrativa e que ideias podem ser agregadas para contribuir e incentivar uma atuação consensual dos agentes públicos. Para tanto, será empregada a metodologia hipotético dedutiva, por meio do qual se aferirá a validade da hipótese a partir da avaliação dos dados sobre acordos realizados pelas advocacias públicas diante das alterações normativas empreendidas nos últimos anos. Com isso, será feita uma avaliação sobre a possibilidade de aplicação de técnicas de estímulo, partindo doreferencial teórico da teoria do nudge e das abordagens sobre consensualidade no âmbito da Administração Pública.
Core Scale Modeling of Polymer Gel Dehydration by Spontaneous Imbibition
Authors: Østebø Andersen Pål , Lohne Arild , Stavland Arne , Hiorth Aksel , Brattekås Bergit
Published: February 2019

Capillary spontaneous imbibition (SI) of solvent (water bound in gel) from formed polymer gel into an adjacent, oil-saturated porous medium was recently observed in laboratory experiments. Loss of water from the gel by SI might influence the blocking capacity of the gel residing in a fracture, by decreasing its volume, and might contribute to gel failure, often observed in water-wet oil fields.

This work presents an original modeling approach to simulate and interpret spontaneous imbibition of water from Cr(III)-acetate-hydrolyzed-polyacrylamide (HPAM) gel into adjacent oil-saturated rock matrix. Simulations were compared to experiments on the core scale, using two different boundary conditions: all faces open (AFO) and two-ends-open free spontaneous imbibition (TEOFSI). Capillary forces enable water (used as gel solvent) to enter the rock matrix. The gel particle network itself is, however, inhibited from entering because of its structure, and remains on the surface of the rock matrix. We developed a theory that describes the gel as a compressible porous medium and describes the flow of water through gel. The polymer structure of the gel is proposed to constitute a gel matrix of constant solid volume. Gel porosity, defined by the volume fraction of solvent, is modeled as a function of pore pressure and gel compressibility. Gel permeability is modeled as function of gel porosity using a Kozeny-Carman approach. The flow equations for the gel and core domains were solved simultaneously by implementing the proposed description into the core-scale simulator IORCoreSim. The gel surrounding the core was discretized and included as a part of the total grid.

The simulated flow of water through and from the gel occurred in a transient manner, driven by the coupled gradients in gel fluid pressure and gel porosity. Gel porosity initially decreased in a layer close to the core surface because of reduced aqueous pressure, and continued to decrease in layers away from the core surface. The propagation rate was controlled by two main gel parameters: First, gel compressibility controlled the pressure gradient within the gel network, and the amount of water transported from the outer part of the gel toward the core surface to balance the pore pressure; and, second, gel permeability limited how fast water could flow within the gel at a given pressure gradient, thus increasing the time scale of the overall imbibition process.
Validity of Mini-Fluid Challenge for Predicting Fluid Responsiveness Following Liver Transplantation
Authors: Mukhtar Ahmed , Awad Maha , Elayashy Mohamed , Hussein Amr , Obayah Gihan , Adawy Akram El , Ahmed Mai , Dahab Hisham Abul , Hasanin Ahmed , Elfouly Amr , Abdo Mostafa , Abdelaal Amr , Teboul Jean
Published: February 2019

Background

Mini-fluid challenge is a well tested and effective tool to predict fluid responsiveness under various clinical conditions. However, mini-fluid challenge has never been tested in patients with end-stage liver disease. This study investigated whether infusion of 150 ml albumin 5% can predict fluid responsiveness in cirrhotic patients following liver transplant.

Methods

Fifty patients receiving living donor liver transplant were included in the analysis. Mini-fluid challenge composed of 150 ml of albumin 5% administered over 1 min in three consecutive 50-ml fluid boluses. An additional 350 ml was then infused at a constant rate over 15 min (for a total of 500 ml). Stroke volume (SV) was measured as the product of the subaortic velocity time integral (VTI) and left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) area. Fluid responsiveness was defined as an increase in SV by ≥15% after the infusion.

Results

Fifty patients were enrolled in the study. Fourteen patients were classified with Child A, 15 patients with Child B, and 21 patients with Child C cirrhosis. Thirty four patients were fluid responders and 16 patients were fluid non-responders. After 150 ml of albumin 5%, the SV increased significantly in our cohort. The area under receiver operating curve (AUROC) was 0.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.5–0.8, P = 0.005). In subgroup analysis, the SV increased significantly after mini fluid challenge in the Child A group (P = 0.017) but not Child B or C groups (P = 0.3 and 0.29, respectively). The AUROC for mini-fluid challenge in the Child A group was 0.86 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.6–0.9, P = 0.0004), while mini-fluid challenge failed to discriminate between responders and non-responders in Child B and C groups.

Conclusion

A mini-fluid challenge of 150 ml albumin 5% can predict fluid responsiveness in liver transplant patients with fair sensitivity and specifiicty. Subgroup analyis revealed that minifluid challenge can predict fluid responsiveness in patients with Child A cirrhosis but not patients with Child B or C cirrhosis

Trial Registration Number

NCT03396159. (Prospective registered). Initial registration date was 10/01/2018
A Comparison of the New Double-tube Laryngeal Mask and the Endotracheal Intubation for Gastroesophageal Reflux Radiofrequency Ablation under General Anesthesia:A Randomized, Prospective, and Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Wang Xinyue , Ran Tao , LI Wei , Yang Zhaoxia
Published: February 2019

Bsckground

Stretta radiofrequency ablation therapy is a minimally invasive endoscopic anti-reflux procedure, which used to treat patients with gastroesophageal reflux.The operation has a longer time, greater stimulation, and higher requirements for anesthesia.The purpose of this trial To compare the safety and efficacy of the laryngeal mask airway and the endotracheal intubation in radiofrequency therapy under general anesthesia with GERD in adults.

Methods

30 patients (ASA grade I-II) with gastroesophageal reflux disease receiving radiofrequency therapy were randomly divided into the laryngeal mask group (L group) and the tracheal intubation group (T group). After pre--oxygenation, routine intravenous anesthesia was induced, the PLMA or ETT inserted, the cuff inflated. The proper depth of anesthesia was maintained during the operation. The time of successful placement of the radiofrequency catheter, MAP, HR, SPO2, PetCO2 and airway pressure at six time points, operation time, extubation time (time from the end of surgery to the extraction of the mask), endoscopic physician, patient satisfaction, the incidence of reflux aspiration, and the postoperative sore throat were recorded.

Results

The success rate of laryngeal mask catheterization was 100%. The successful placement time of radiofrequency catheter in the LMA group was significantly shorter than that in the ETT group. In the LMA group,the operation time and postoperative extubation time or the time to pull out laryngeal mask was shorter than in the ETT group. The satisfaction scores of patients and endoscopy doctor in the LMA group were better than in the ETT group. The HR and MAP in the ETT group were significantly higher than in the LMA group at T1 time point. The incidence of the postoperative sore throat was higher in the LMA group than in the ETT group. There was no significant difference in ventilation oxygenation between the two groups, and no adverse events such as reflux and aspiration occurred.

Conclusions

PLMA has the characteristics of simple operation, stable hemodynamics, and proper airway sealing function, can significantly shorten the operation time, and improve the perioperative comfort of patients and the satisfaction of endoscopists. It can effectively and safely replace ETT in the radiofrequency treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Treatment strategies for bad loans to microfinancial institutions: evidence from Kendari, Indonesia
Authors: Putera Asrip , Yani Balaka Muh.
Published: February 2019

The purpose of the research is to find the right strategic formula to resolve bad loans suitable to environment and characteristics of micro-financial institutions and their consumers. It applies qualitative approach by means of interactive method put forward by Milles and Huberman (2009) as analysis method. Data are obtained from indepth interview with superordinates, staff and consumers of microfinance institutions in Kendari city. A microcredit institution “Harum” needs several strategis to handle bad loans. It includes: institutional reinforcement (improvement in service procedure, increase in human resources’ skill, more branch offices, more new recuitments, the involvement of sub-district government, the use of information system), reinforcement of consumers’ capacity (tight selection process, counseling of business management, advisory service, and special relationship). The research results serve as solutions to microfinancial institutions in handling bad loans, from which development and sustainability can be assured. Consumers might make use of this information to develop their business. They also might serve as references for regional government in making the right policy for the development of micofinancial institutions and small business empowerment. This is the first study exploring formulation of strategy for microfinancial institutions in handling bad loans. The research explores internal and external aspects of microfinancial institution, with holistic view of the right policy in terms of institutions and consumers.
High-resolution hydrologic forecasting for very large urban areas
Authors: Habibi Hamideh , Dasgupta Ishita , Noh Seongjin , Kim Sunghee , Zink Michael , Seo Dong-Jun , Bartos Matthew , Kerkez Branko
Published: February 2019

With continuing growth of urban populations worldwide, high-resolution hydrologic forecasting is an increasingly important hydroinformatics service for large urban areas. In the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, the Collaborative Adapting Sensing of Atmosphere (CASA) WX program has been providing real-time hydrologic products, such as rainfall and streamflow, at 1 min–500 m resolution using the NWS Research Hydrologic Distributed Model forced by the Quantitative Precipitation Estimate from a network of X-band weather radars. There is an increasing demand, however, for even higher-spatial resolution hydrologic products. In this paper, we assess the ability of the current streamflow product to capture the hydrologic response of urban catchments in the DFW area, the utility of ultrasonic distance sensors for real-time sensing of water level in urban streams, and the feasibility of higher-resolution operation using parallel processing and cloud computing. We show that the CASA WX streamflow product skillfully captures the stage and streamflow response from rainfall for the majority of the nine catchments studied, but that timing errors significantly deteriorate the quality of streamflow prediction for certain basins. Comparative evaluation of different computing models shows that a reduction in runtime of up to 34% is possible with parallel processing at 1 min–250 m resolution.
Ozone enhanced ceramic membrane filtration for wastewater recycling
Authors: Spencer P. , Domingos S. , Edwards B. , Howes D. , Shorney-Darby H. , Scheerman H. , Milton G. , Clement J.
Published: February 2019

The Water Corporation of Western Australia uses polymeric ultrafiltration (UF) membranes across a range of applications including surface waters with high natural organic matter (NOM), recycling of secondary treated wastewater and pre-treatment for seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO). These challenging raw water conditions require expensive chemical dosing and clean-in-place (CIP) regimes, high frequency of membrane replacement and reduced membrane life. The greater durability of ceramic membranes, with optimal ozone and coagulant dosing, offer a potential capital and operating advantage over polymeric UF membranes. The Water Corporation collaborated with PWN Technologies (PWNT) to establish a ceramic membrane pilot plant at the Beenyup Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). Optimised performance of the pilot plant was established and compared with existing UF membranes treating secondary treated wastewater prior to reverse osmosis (RO) in an indirect potable wastewater recycling application. Findings show a sustainable flux rate of 150 L/m2/h is achievable with ceramic MF membranes while filtering secondary treated wastewater. Higher flux rates up to 250 L/m2/h have been tested and are possibly sustainable, however, other bottlenecks in the pilot plant (ozone generator capacity) prevented longer test runs at this flux. Comparable design flux rates for polymeric UF membranes are 50 L/m2/h.
An Overview About the Biology of Skeletal Muscle Satellite Cells
Authors: Forcina Laura , Miano Carmen , Pelosi Laura , Musarò Antonio
Published: February 2019

The peculiar ability of skeletal muscle tissue to operate adaptive changes during post-natal development and adulthood has been associated with the existence of adult somatic stem cells. Satellite cells, occupying an exclusive niche within the adult muscle tissue, are considered bona fide stem cells with both stem-like properties and myogenic activities. Indeed, satellite cells retain the capability to both maintain the quiescence in uninjured muscles and to be promptly activated in response to growth or regenerative signals, re-engaging the cell cycle. Activated cells can undergo myogenic differentiation or self-renewal moving back to the quiescent state. Satellite cells behavior and their fate decision are finely controlled by mechanisms involving both cell-autonomous and external stimuli. Alterations in these regulatory networks profoundly affect muscle homeostasis and the dynamic response to tissue damage, contributing to the decline of skeletal muscle that occurs under physio-pathologic conditions. Although the clear myogenic activity of satellite cells has been described and their pivotal role in muscle growth and regeneration has been reported, a comprehensive picture of inter-related mechanisms guiding muscle stem cell activity has still to be defined. Here, we reviewed the main regulatory networks determining satellite cell behavior. In particular, we focused on genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlining satellite cell maintenance and commitment. Besides intrinsic regulations, we reported current evidences about the influence of environmental stimuli, derived from other cell populations within muscle tissue, on satellite cell biology.
Does the Acupoint Specificity Exist? Evidence from Functional Neuroimaging Studies
Authors: Qiu Ke , Yin Tao , Hong Xiaojuan , Sun Ruirui , He Zhaoxuan , Liu Xiaoyan , Ma Peihong , Yang Jie , Lan Lei , Li Zhengjie , Tang Chenjian , Cheng Shirui , Liang Fanrong , Zeng Fang
Published: February 2019

Background:

Using functional neuroimaging techniques to explore the central mechanism of acupoint specificity, the key of acupuncture theory and clinical practice, has attracted increasing attention worldwide. This review aimed to investigate the current status of functional neuroimaging studies on acupoint specificity and explore the potential influencing factors for the expression of acupoint specificity in neuroimaging studies.

Methods:

PubMed database was searched from January 1st, 1995 to December 31st, 2016 with the language restriction in English. Data including basic information, methodology and study results were extracted and analyzed from the eligible records.

Results:

Seventy-nine studies were finally enrolled. 65.8% of studies were performed in China, 73.4% of studies were conducted with healthy subjects, 77.2% of studies chose manual acupuncture as the intervention, 86.1% of studies focused on the instant efficacy and 89.9% of studies used functional magnetic resonance imaging as scanning technique. The average sample size was 16 per group. The comparison of verum acupoints and sham acupoints were the main body of acupoint specificity researches. 93.7% of studies obtained the positive results and favored the existence of acupoint specificity.

Conclusion:

This review affirmed the existence of acupoint specificity and deemed that the acupoint specificity was relative. Multiple factors such as participants, sample size, acupoint combinations, treatment courses, and types of acupoint could influence the expression of acupoint specificity.
Recent Advances and Molecular Pathway in Salivary Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (Review)
Authors: Xu Laijun , Li Lingzhi , Zhao Shouliang , Liu Shangfeng
Published: February 2019

Background:

Salivary Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC) is a malignant tumor located
at oral and maxillofacial regions, and its conventional treatments are surgery, chemotherapy and
radiotherapy. However, its poor survival rates and prognosis resulting from the molecular mechanisms
underlying the carcinogenesis remain obscure. To date, there are insufficient reviews to
summarize the genes and molecular pathways for ACC. Therefore, it is required for us to highlight
the main oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes and genetic signal transduction pathways associated
with ACC in this review.

Materials and Methods:

A literature review based on PubMed for the genetic characteristics and
molecular transduction pathways for ACC was conducted. Ninety articles were selected as references
using the search terms or keywords such as “genes, molecular pathways, salivary adenoid
cystic carcinoma or ACC”.

Results:

We have briefly described histopathology, current treatments and main clinical features
in ACC. Besides, we have also elaborated the associated genes and pathways in this review according
to the searched articles in recent years.

Conclusion:

We have summarized vital genes and proteins targeting or mechanism-based on proliferation,
apoptosis, invasion and metastasis. Although there are few kinds of research on ACC
currently exist, we expect that better detailed genetic studies would pave the way for promising
advancement in our understanding of the molecular biology and pathogenesis mechanisms underlying
tumors.
Reliability Estimation for Hybrid System under Constant-stress Partially Accelerated Life Test with Progressively Hybrid Censoring
Authors: Shi Xiaolin , Lu Pu , Shi Yimin
Published: February 2019

Background:

Reliability analysis for the systems with masked data had been studied by
many scholars. However, most researches focused on a system that is either series or parallel only,
and the component in the system is mainly exponential or Weibull. In engineering practice, it is often
seen that the structure of a system is a combination of series and parallel system, and other types
of components are also used in the system. So it is important to study the reliability analysis of hybrid
systems with modified Weibull components.

Objective:

For the hybrid system with masked data, the constant stress partial accelerated life test is
performed under type-II progressive hybrid censoring. These data from life test are used to estimate
unknown parameters and reliability index of system. The research results will not only provide theoretical
basis and reference for system reliability assessment but also favor the patents on partial accelerated
life test.

Methods:

Maximum likelihood estimates of unknown parameters are investigated with the numerical
method. The approximate confidence intervals, and bootstrap confidence intervals for parameters
are constructed by the asymptotic theory and the bootstrap method, respectively.

Results:

Maximum likelihood estimations of unknown parameters and reliability index of system
are derived. The approximate confidence intervals and bootstrap confidence intervals for unknown
parameters are proposed. The performance of estimation of unknown parameters and reliability index
are evaluated numerically through Monte Carlo method.

Conclusion:

The performance on maximum likelihood estimation method is effective and satisfying.
For the confidence intervals of parameters, bootstrap method outperforms the approximate method.
Non-redundant Spherical Near-Field to Far-Field Transformation for a Volumetric Antenna in Offset Configuration
Authors: D’Agostino Francesco , Ferrara Flaminio , Gennarelli Claudio , Guerriero Rocco , Migliozzi Massimo
Published: February 2019

Background:

The development of fast Near-Field (NF) measurement techniques allowing the precise determination of the Far-Field (FF) radiation features of an antenna is becoming more and more challenging nowadays.

Objective:

The goal of the article is the development of an NF To FF Transformation (NFTFFT) with spherical scan for offset mounted volumetric Antennas Under Tests (AUTs) requiring, unlike the classical technique, a reduced set of NF data, that is of the same amount as for the onset mounting case, thus making data gathering faster. In fact, the number of NF data needed by the standard approach may considerably increase in this case, since the size of the smallest sphere surrounding the AUT and centered at the center of the measurement sphere rises.

Methods:

This goal has been achieved by profitably exploiting the non-redundant sampling representation of electromagnetic field and assuming a volumetric AUT as contained in a sphere. An optimal sampling interpolation algorithm is then employed to precisely reconstruct the input NF data for the traditional spherical NFTFFT from the reduced set of the collected ones.

Conclusion:

The numerical simulations and experimental tests demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed approach accounting for an offset mounting of the AUT.
Liquid-Liquid-Solid Equillibrium of Water + 2-propanol + Kosmotropic Salts: Construction of Phase Diagrams and Understanding of Salting-out Effects Using Volumetric and Compressibility Studies
Authors: Jadhav Vidhya , Mane-Gavade Shubhangi , Kumbhar Rajendra , Kolekar Sanjay , Tamhankar Bhaskar , Sabale Sandip
Published: February 2019

Background:

Triangular phase diagrams are important to understand the phase
behaviors in ternary systems. The salting out of alcohol from water by kosmotropic salt has
long been known, but the molecular interactions and the mechanism of bond breaking and
making processes has not yet been fully understood.

Objective:

To understand the salting-out of 2-propanol from water using kosmotropic salts
(Na2S2O3, Na2SO4 and Na2SO3). To study the phase equilibria of liquid-liquid, liquid-solid
and liquid-liquid-solid system by constructing ternary phase diagrams. To determine the
solute-solute, solute-solvent, and solvent-solvent molecular interactions to resolve the salting-
out effect.

Methods:

The solubility data of Na2S2O3/Na2SO4/Na2SO3 salts have been reported in pure
water, 2-propanol and water + 2-propanol mixtures in different concentrations at 298.15 ±
1 K. The ternary phase diagrams have been constructed from the obtained solubility data.
The volumetric and acoustic data of binary and ternary systems of water + 2-propanol, water
+ salt and water + 2-propanol + salt has been determined using density meter and interferometer.

Results:

The ternary phase diagrams have been constructed for water+2-propanol+
Na2S2O3/Na2SO4/Na2SO3 system. The rise in sound velocity signifies more structural interactions
in binary water-alcohol and water-salt systems, while the relation is rather change
with the ternary system, as the water-alcohol sheath will be broken by the kosmotropic salt
which results in to salt-water sheath.

Conclusion:

The density, sound velocity and adiabatic compressibility results suggest that phase separation phenomenon is due to the bond breaking and bond making process along
with hydrophobic hydration and hydrophobic interactions. The anion S2O32-, SO42- and SO3 2- promote salting-out effect and the strength of these effects decreases in the order
S2O32->SO42->SO32-.
An Energy Efficient Routing Protocol Based On New Variable Data Packet (VDP) Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Chandrawanshi Veervrat Singh , Tripathi Rajiv Kumar , Pachauri Rahul , Khan Nafis Uddin
Published: February 2019

Background:

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) refer to a group of sensors used for sensing and monitoring the physical data of the environment and organizing the collected data at a central location. These networks enjoy several benefits because of their lower cost, smaller size and smarter sensors. However, a limited source of energy and lifetime of the sensors have emerged as the major setbacks for these networks.

Methods:

In this work, an energy-aware algorithm has been proposed for the transmission of variable data packets from sensor nodes to the base station according to the balanced energy consumption by all the nodes of a WSN.

Results:

Obtained simulation results verify that the lifetime of the sensor network is significantly enhanced in comparison to other existing clustering based routing algorithm.

Conclusion:

The proposed algorithm is comparatively easy to implement and achieves a higher gain in the lifetime of a WSN while keeping the throughput nearly same as LEACH protocol.
Complexity and Nesting Evolution in Open Source Software Systems: Experimental Study
Authors: Alenezi Mamdouh , Zarour Mohammad , Akour Mohammed
Published: February 2019

Background:

Software complexity affects its quality; a complex software is not only difficult
to read, maintain and less efficient, but it also can be less secure with many vulnerabilities.
Complexity metrics, e.g. cyclomatic complexity and nesting levels, are commonly used to predict
and benchmark software cost and efficiency. Complexity metrics are also used to decide if code refactoring
is needed.

Objective:

Software systems with high complexity need more time to develop and test and may lead
to bad understandability and more errors. Nesting level in the target structure may result in developing
more complex software in what is so-called the nesting problem. Nesting problem should be
shortened by rewriting the code or breaking into several functional procedures.

Method:

In this paper, the relationship between the nesting levels, the cyclomatic complexity, and
lines of code (LOC) metrics are measured through several software releases. In order to address how
strong a relationship between these factors with the nesting level, correlation coefficients are calculated.
Moreover, to examine to what extent the developers are aware of and tackle the nesting problem,
the evolution of nesting levels for ten releases of five open sources systems is studied to see if it
is improving over successive versions or not.

Results:

The result shows that the nesting level has variant effects on the cyclomatic complexity and
SLOC for the five studied systems.

Conclusion:

nesting level has the tendency to have a positive correlation with other factors (cyclomatic
complexity and LOC).
Validated stability indicating assay method for tenofovir implementing design of experiment approach for forced degradation
Authors: Gawande Vandana , Jadhav Varsha
Published: February 2019

Tenofovir, an antiretroviral drug known as nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor, was evaluated for its degradation behavior. The study involved optimization of forced degradation study using the design of experiment (DoE) approach and validation of developed stability indicating assay method (SIAM) for tenofovir. Chromatographic separation was achieved on Kromasil C18 column using mixture of methanol and ammonium acetate buffer pH 8.5 as mobile phase in isocratic elution mode. Detection was done using PDA detector. Tenofovir showed degradation at alkali, acid hydrolysis and oxidative condition while it was stable to photolysis and thermal stress condition. The optimization of forced degradation conditions, like hydrolytic and oxidative, was done by application 3n full factorial designs, which helped to obtain desired drug degradation. The proposed method was successfully validated as per ICH Q2 (R1) guidelines.
Analisis Ketepatan Kode Diagnosis Utama Kasus Persalinan Sebelum dan Sesudah Verifikasi pada Pasien BPJS di Rsup Dr. Soeradji Tirtonegoro Klaten
Authors: Ningtyas Nandani Kusuma , Sugiarsi Sri , Wariyanti Astri Sri
Published: February 2019

Background: Based on the preliminary survey at RSUP dr. Soeradji Tirtonegoro Klaten found the main diagnosis code differences in 5 out of 10 BPJS patient medical record for labor cases before and after verification.Objective: To determine the accuracy of the main diagnosis codes of labor cases before and after verification in BPJS patients at dr. Soeradji Tirtonegoro KlatenGeneral Hospital.Methods: Type of research is comparative analytic with cross sectional approach. The population is medical record of JKN BPJS inpatients in the first quarter of 2017. The samples are 50 documents use systematic sampling technique. The instrument is checklist and list of questions. Collecting data use observation and unstructured interviews. Data processing use collecting, editing, coding, entering, processing, cleaning and presenting data. Data analysis used Fisher exact test.Results: The accuracy of the main diagnosis codes of labor cases before verification is 25 (50%) correct and 25 (50%) incorrect. The accuracy of the main diagnosis code for labor cases after verification is 29 (58%) correct and 21 (42%) incorrect. The results of Fisher exact test were obtained p value (0.274)> 0.05.Conclusion : There is no difference in the accuracy of the main diagnosis codes of labor cases before and after verification in BPJS patients. It is recommended in determining the main diagnosis code based on the coding rules in ICD-10 and the internal verifier still check the diagnosis code.
Can One Promote a Delegation of the Bilateral Aid to Multilateral Donors to Improve Foreign Aid Effect on Economic Growth in ECOWAS (Note 1) Countries?
Authors: Kébré W. Jean Marie
Published: February 2019

This article analyzes the relationship between external aid and economic growth in the ECOWAS region, with a focus on bilateral and multilateral aid effects. The key idea behind this analysis is an argument of Svensson (2000) that multilateral aid is more effective than bilateral aid because of the high degree of altruism of bilateral donors. He therefore suggested a delegation of bilateral aid to multilateral institutions. To appreciate his suggestion, this analysis used panel data from the 16 ECOWAS countries from the period 1984 to 2014. The results of the estimates, based on the dynamic least squares estimator (DOLS), show a negative effect of foreign aid on economic growth. This negative effect on economic growth persists when the components of aid are introduced into the model. In addition, results highlight that governance is a channel through which foreign aid affect positively economic growth. In these conditions, bilateral aid is more effective on economic growth than multilateral aid. These results about foreign aid received by ECOWAS countries invalidates Svensson’s (2000) theory. Therefore, a delegation of bilateral aid to multilateral institutions is not relevant because bilateral aid contributes more to economic growth if governance is taken into account.
¿Cívica o comercial? Paradojas de la idea de sociedad civil en Ferguson
Authors: Wences Simon Isabel
Published: February 2019

En este artículo, se analizan algunas características de la idea de sociedad civil en el pensamiento del ilustrado escocés Adam Ferguson. Enmarcado en el clásico dilema del binomio virtud cívica/sociedad comercial, el filósofo defiende que no debe reducirse lo "civil" de la sociedad al plano económico, sino que es necesario contemplar también las dimensiones política y ética de los ciudadanos. Si se excluyen estas dimensiones las consecuencias sociopolíticas, entre ellas la corrupción política y el despotismo, pueden ser devastadoras para el hombre y para la sociedad. La autora del artículo considera que esta propuesta ofrece herramientas teóricas para el actual debate que en materia de sociedad civil se está llevando a cabo entre los actores sociales que reivindican principios de la tradición republicana la liberta política y la virtud cívica y aquellos que defienden núcleos fundamentales de la tradición liberal el mercado como instancia fundamental de la sociedad civil.
La condición del arte. Entre lo sagrado y lo profano. Apuntes de sociología del arte
Authors: Amador Bech Julio
Published: February 2019

En este artículo, el autor analiza el concepto de arte confrontando y cuestionando la oposición y diferencia entre la idea moderna y, con eso, profana, de arte y otra tradicional y antigua, inmersa en la sustancia de lo sagrado. A partir de las definiciones de "arte tradicional" propuestas por diversos autores, se establecen lineamientos teóricos generales para analizar de manera concreta las formas particulares en las que, en diversas culturas, el arte se sitúa al interior de un conjunto de prácticas sociales dentro de complejos mítico-rituales dominados por lo sagrado. Se abordan, en particular, los casos de las culturas prehispánicas del área mesoamericana y el ejemplo de la cultura yoruba de Nigeria. Se desarrolla, asimismo, un esbozo de la génesis del concepto moderno de arte de la Grecia clásica a los orígenes de la modernidad en el Renacimiento, destacando las consecuencias de la secularización del arte moderno y de las formas de ruptura y confrontación entre los conceptos sagrado y profano de arte.
La izquierda chilena contemporánea.
Authors: Garretón Manuel Antonio
Published: February 2019

En este artículo, el autor examina las particularidades de la izquierda chilena para entender su papel en los gobiernos democráticos desde los años 70. El autor parte de la premisa de la existencia, durante los años 90, de dos izquierdas: una, el socialismo dentro de la coalición; la otra, el comunismo fuera de ella. En el trabajo se sostiene que la izquierda socialista ha sido el principal motor de la coalición y su papel específico se ha concentrado en los temas socio-económicos ligados a la igualdad, a la justicia, a los derechos humanos y a las propuestas culturales de tipo progresista. Asimismo, se analizan las particularidades esenciales de los gobiernos democráticos chilenos y se examinan los temas y las tareas pendientes. El artículo concluye con un balance del papel de la izquierda y de los retos que aún tiene por delante.
Presentación
Authors: Autor Sin
Published: February 2019

Presentación del n. 197 de la RMCPS
Microcrédito y pobreza en Venezuela: un caso de estudio
Authors: Martínez Alberto
Published: February 2019

En este artículo, el autor analiza y evalúa el Proyecto de Desarrollo de Comunidades Rurales Pobres (PRODECOP) como uno de varios programas que existen en Venezuela para reducir los índices de pobreza. La metodología utilizada comprende tanto investigación documental como trabajo de campo. Dentro de los principales resultados obtenidos resaltan el éxito del PRODECOP en el fortalecimiento de los activos humanos, sociales, financieros y físicos de las familias beneficiarias y el extraordinario crecimiento de las cajas rurales, que se han convertido en un mecanismo de financiamiento para las familias rurales pobres.
Verificaciones y pronósticos en el conflicto de Cachemira
Authors: Travesedo de Castilla Concepción
Published: February 2019

En este artículo, la autora analiza el largo y tormentoso proceso del conflicto indo-pakistaní alrededor de la región de Cachemira así como la búsqueda de una resolución definitiva. Pone énfasis en que este conflicto ha estado profundamente determinado, desde su mismo origen, por los mecanismos de poder e influencia que agitan la arena internacional y explica cómo el ejercicio de reordenamiento mundial iniciado el 11 de septiembre ha tenido una repercusión directa en su estructura. Asimismo, examina los riesgos que representan los grupos islamistas internacionales en la resolución del conflicto en su intento por capitalizar el apoyo de una población que, básicamente, aspira a encontrar la paz.
Aproximaciones a la noción de Imaginario
Authors: Solares Blanca
Published: February 2019

Es este artículo, la autora analiza la concepción del imaginario, entendido como “dimensión constitutiva del Ser”, a fin de contribuir a aclarar algunas de las cuestiones que se agolpan en el umbral de cualquier intento de investigación hermenéutica de la imaginación en nuestros días.
La vigencia del pensamiento de José Carlos Mariátegui en un mundo global: identidad, cultura y nación en América Latina
Authors: Sosa Fuentes Samuel
Published: February 2019

El presente artículo tiene por objeto mostrar la vigencia, en un mundo global, del pensamiento de uno de los más importantes y originales pensadores latinoamericanos: José Carlos Mariátegui. La actualidad del pensamiento de Mariátegui se evidencia, justamente, por sus reflexiones sobre la identidad, la cultura y la nación en América Latina. Dichas reflexiones resultan de vital importancia en la era de la globalización cultural de las identidades en el capitalismo mundial.
Las condiciones de vida en las cárceles mexicanas
Authors: Azaola Garrido Elena
Published: February 2019

Con base en dos encuestas levantadas en 2003 y 2006 a una muestra representativa de la población de internos en los establecimientos penitenciarios del Distrito Federal y el Estado de México, el texto analiza las condiciones de vida en prisión y se refiere a los desaciertos de las políticas de seguridad que los han llevado ahí.
La normalidad como excepción: la banalidad del mal en la obra de Hanna Arendt
Authors: Estrada Marco Antonio
Published: February 2019

En este artículo, el autor expone la relevancia de las cuestiones morales en la obra de Hannah Arendt. Con este fin, se establece el significado de la fórmula “la banalidad del mal” para explicar las complejas conexiones entre el pensamiento, la conciencia y el juicio y cómo este circuito es destruido en el totalitarismo mediante la ideología, el terror y el aniquilamiento de la política.
Infancia es destino: el federalismo y las finanzas públicas nacionales en el Congreso Constituyente de 1824
Authors: Pantoja Morán David
Published: February 2019

A partir de las discusiones habidas en el seno del Congreso Constituyente de 1824, el trabajo analiza el primer esfuerzo de reordenación de las finanzas públicas nacionales. Propone hacer una lectura política y sociológica, y no solo jurídica, de tan importantes antecedentes que marcarían indeleblemente nuestra hacienda pública. Los diputados constituyentes dejaron ver claramente en sus intervenciones la resistencia de las ricas y poderosas elites locales a contribuir a los gastos de la federación. Tanto el gobierno como los miembros de la comisión redactora de la constitución y los de la comisión de hacienda, ante la posibilidad de una ruptura y la grave amenaza de la disolución de la unidad nacional, prefirieron ceder. Así, el costo que se tuvo que pagar por preservar la integridad de la nación fue el de un Estado débil, por carecer de finanzas sólidas.
La comunicación política y las elecciones del 2006. La teoría de la comunicación y el dictamen de validez de la elección presidencial
Authors: Pareja Sánchez Norma
Published: February 2019

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo analizar, bajo la luz de la teoría de la comunicación, la posición asu­mida por el Tribunal Electoral del Poder Judicial de la Federación en su dictamen de validez de la elección presidencial que dedica buena parte de su contenido a la propaganda electoral en medios de comunicación, sobre todo en televisión y, en menor medida, en radio. Se toma como materia de análisis el propio dictamen que consigna las irregularidades expuestas en materia de comunicación, las cuales fueron parte del proceso electoral, cuya validez fue ampliamente cuestionada por distintos sectores de la sociedad mexicana.
Debates presidenciales y democracia en México. Desempeño de los candidatos en los debates presidenciales del 2006
Authors: Echeverría Victoria Martín
Published: February 2019

 

　

En este trabajo se discute el valor del formato del debate presidencial desde el punto de vista democrático y se analizan los problemas que éste adquiere al ser mediatizado en aspectos tales como espectacularización, personalización, fragmentación, simplicidad etc., así como las ventajas que también supone dicha mediatización. En una segunda sección, el autor expone los resultados de un análisis de contenido aplicado a los dos debates presidenciales que se efectuaron en la elección mexicana de 2006, explicando la metodología utilizada y los hallazgos que de ella se desprenden.
La Ley Televisa y la formación de la IV República mediática en México
Authors: Esteinou Madrid Javier
Published: February 2019

En este artículo, el autor examina la conformación, organización y funcionamiento de lo que ha denomina­do el poder mediático a principios del siglo xxi, el cual que se sumaría a los tres poderes formales divididos y autónomos del Estado mexicano (Ejecutivo, Legislativo y Judicial). Sostiene que el poder mediático ha conquis­tado tales cuotas de influencia que lo han convertido en el poder del poder que progresivamente subordina y presiona al resto de los tres constitucionales para some­terlos a su voluntad mediático-empresarial e imponer su proyecto de construcción social, económica, política y humana. Finalmente, se hace un llamado para que el Congreso de la Unión realice una profunda reforma del Estado que ubique a los poderes fácticos comunicativos bajo el diseño y el espíritu de la Constitución Política mexicana para crear una nueva relación sana entre medios, Estado y sociedad.  
Claves para una reforma electoral democrática: La comunicación política en México. ¿Espacio de visibilidad o invisibilidad de las mujeres?
Authors: Vega Montiel Aimée
Published: February 2019

En este artículo, la autora analiza la relación entre las mujeres y la comunicación política para determinar si es éste un espacio que promueve o no la visibilidad de su ciudadanía, es decir, si se trata de un espacio plural o androcéntrico.
 