bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O papel de tributos diferidos no capital regulatório de instituições financeiras brasileiras
Authors: Junqueira Michele Aparecida Dela Ricci , Nakao Sílvio Hiroshi
Published: December 2013

Este trabalho buscou evidências sobre o papel de ativos e passivos de tributos diferidos como instrumento de atingimento e arbitragem dos níveis de capital regulatório por instituições financeiras brasileiras no período de 2004 a 2009. Foram desenvolvidas duas hipóteses: a) os gestores das instituições financeiras brasileiras utilizam tributos diferidos para satisfazer os limites necessários de capital regulatório e b) os gestores das instituições financeiras brasileiras utilizam tributos diferidos de maneira discricionária como instrumento de arbitragem de capital regulatório. Para tanto, este estudo obtêm evidências analisando informações contábeis anuais das instituições financeiras brasileiras. As hipóteses são testadas utilizando as técnicas de análise de dados de regressão linear múltipla e regressão com dados em painel. Como resultado, o estudo mostrou que as instituições financeiras brasileiras utilizaram tributo diferido para apoiar ou atingir os níveis de capital mínimo exigido pelo Acordo de Basileia, mas obteve-se também evidência de que o volume de capital regulatório influencia diretamente o volume de tributos diferidos, contrariando a literatura internacional, que sugere discricionariedade no uso dos tributos diferidos como forma de arbitragem do capital regulatório.
O regime de competência no setor público brasileiro: uma pesquisa empírica sobre a utilidade da informação contábil
Authors: Sousa Rossana Guerra de , Vasconcelos Adriana Fernandes de , Caneca Roberta Lira , Niyama Jorge Katsumi
Published: December 2013

O estudo buscou examinar a percepção dos usuários internos, externos e preparadores da informação contábil do setor público brasileiro sobre a alteração do regime de contabilização para o baseado na competência, quanto à capacidade de produção de potenciais benefícios informacionais para a tomada de decisões e de gestão das entidades públicas. Para tanto, foi conduzida uma pesquisa de campo a partir da metodologia proposta por Kober, Lee, e Ng (2010) em estudo exploratório, e os dados analisados com a utilização dos testes de Wilcoxon e Mann-Whitnney. Os resultados indicam que, na percepção dos respondentes, o regime de competência pode produzir benefícios informacionais para a tomada de decisão das entidades públicas, apontando que sua adoção não se fará apenas por exigência mandatória ou pressão de organismos internacionais. A análise das diferenças nos níveis de utilidade percebida pelos grupos sugere que as ações adotadas pelos gestores do processo de implementação das Normas Brasileiras de Contabilidade Aplicadas ao Setor Público (NBCASP), no que tange a divulgação e capacitação, podem estar surtindo efeito, quando os preparadores apresentam uma percepção em maior índice que os usuários internos e externos, do potencial gerador de informações para decisões do regime de competência. Adicionalmente, pode indicar a necessidade dos gestores do processo de implementação das NBCASP de focar sua atuação nos demais envolvidos (usuários internos e externos) de forma a preparar o ambiente para a incorporação deste novo paradigma.
Esquadrinhando a governança corporativa: o comportamento dos personagens sob o ponto de vista dos discursos dos autores acadêmico
Authors: Pinheiro Alexandre Santos , Carrieri Alexandre de Pádua , Joaquim Nathália de Fátima
Published: December 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho é compreender como o discurso dominante, no meio acadêmico, concebe o comportamento dos personagens a respeito da governança corporativa. Para tanto, percorremos todas as revistas brasileiras do campo da Administração e da Contabilidade qualificadas pela Agência de Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (Capes) como A1, A2, B1, B2 ou B3. Também investigamos os Encontros da Associação Nacional dos Programas de Pós-Graduação em Administração (EnANPAD) e as teses e dissertações dos programas de pós-graduação em Administração e Contabilidade qualificados pela Capes como 4, 5, 6 ou 7. Utilizamos a análise do discurso como instrumental de análise dos dados obtidos. Os resultados apontam a separação de papéis, o conflito de agência e o comportamento oportunista como temas principais do discurso sobre governança corporativa; discurso, este, que tem a segurança para investimentos em organizações capitalistas produtivas e o controle sobre o comportamento oportunista como ideologias dominantes. Como interdiscursos, temos os discursos do capitalismo e das ciências econômicas. Os temas controle, separação e expropriação têm sustentado a ideologia capitalista de direito da propriedade. A perspectiva comportamental dos personagens proprietários e gestores tem sido estruturada pela ideologia estrutural-funcionalista. Isso implica no direito de propriedade como valor a ser respeitado e na compreensão da ação sob a razão de maximizar a própria função utilidade. As arguições e discussões sobre governança corporativa tornam-se arguições e discussões sobre segurança e confiança dos financiadores de capital, o que resulta no subentendido da governança corporativa sob a significação de mecanismo de fixação de comportamento que simboliza a determinação de relações de modo a representar segurança e confiança. Diante disso, acreditamos que este trabalho, ao focar uma reflexão analítica sobre o campo de abrangência e análise da governança, possa trazer para a área de contabilidade e finanças novas perspectivas de entendimento que contribuam para dirimir lacunas existentes nas perspectivas conceituais dominantes.
Prices lead earnings no Brasil?
Authors: Santos Mateus Alexandre Costa dos , Mol Anderson Luiz Rezende , Anjos Luiz Carlos Marques dos , Santiago Josicarla Soares
Published: December 2013

O presente artigo tem por objetivo identificar o nível temporal da relação retorno-lucro no cenário brasileiro. Por nível temporal entenda-se grau de defasagem temporal entre os momentos das variáveis. A investigação foi desenvolvida sob o pressuposto da hipótese prices lead earnings, cuja premissa fundamental é que o preço da ação é informacionalmente mais rico do que os lucros contábeis corrente e passados, acerca dos lucros futuros, o que invalida o estabelecimento de uma relação contemporânea (nível temporal zero) entre essas variáveis. A investigação foi realizada por meio de regressões combinadas (pooled regression) e dados em painel (efeitos fixos e efeitos aleatórios), ao total foram empregados 4 modelos. Foram analisadas 205 firmas ao longo de 53 trimestres (1999 a 2012), o que resultou em 8.440 firmas-trimestres. Os resultados indicaram que, isoladamente, o lucro contábil não é informacionalmente contemporâneo ao preço das ações, entretanto, com a eliminação dos efeitos dos lucros futuros sobre essa relação, constatou-se que há sinais de contemporaneidade. Além disso, verificou-se que os retornos antecipam informações sobre os lucros futuros. As associações identificadas sugerem que essa antecipação ocorreria há, pelo menos, 8 trimestres. Contudo, não foi possível precisar o nível temporal da relação retorno-lucro trimestral no Brasil, pois, se de um lado, os retornos passados associam-se aos lucros correntes, de outro, a significância dos lucros futuros na explicação dos retornos correntes depende do arranjo das variáveis independentes no modelo. Apesar disso, percebe-se que os resultados convergem com um nível temporal igual a 1, em que o retorno antecipa o lucro do período seguinte, indicação esta que se mostrou independente da adição das demais variáveis no modelo.
Desenvolvimento do germe dentário e do palato em fetos de camundongos sob o efeito da Sinvastatina
Authors: Florian Fernanda , Faria Ludmilla Medeiros , Balducci Eleny Zanella , Cirelli Joni Augusto
Published: December 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: As estatinas causaram uma revolução na prevenção e no tratamento do colesterol alto, porém é contraindicada no primeiro trimestre da gravidez, pois podem causar má formação no feto, no sistema nervoso central e nos membros. OBJETIVO: Verificar os efeitos da Sinvastatina na formação do palato e no desenvolvimento dos germes dentários dos primeiros molares superiores e inferiores. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Para o acasalamento, foram utilizados 14 camundongos fêmeas e quatro machos; o dia 'zero' da gestação foi identificado pelo plug vaginal após acasalamento. As fêmeas prenhes foram divididas em Grupos I e III - receberam 10 mg/kg solução salina em três semanas antes do acasalamento e a partir do acasalamento até o 14.º dia de prenhez, respectivamente. Grupos II e IV receberam 10 mg/kg de Sinvastatina, no período de três semanas antes do acasalamento e a partir do acasalamento até o 14.º dia de prenhez, respectivamente. RESULTADO: A análise histológica dos fetos dos Grupos I, II, III e IV mostrou o palato fusionado na linha mediana do processo palatino. Os germes dentários dos primeiros molares dos Grupos II e IV apresentaram um desenvolvimento atrasado quando comparados aos Grupos I e III, porém, todos estavam nas etapas de capuz e campânula. CONCLUSÃO: As análises histológica e estatística mostraram que os fetos apresentaram palato fusionado na linha média de fusão do processo palatino e os germes dentários dos Grupos II e IV mostraram-se com formas indefinidas e contornos irregulares. Este estudo preliminar mostrou que a Sinvastatina pode ocasionar alterações morfológicas nos germes dentários.
Experiência de cárie e osmolaridade salivar em crianças com paralisia cerebral
Authors: Santos Maria Teresa Botti Rodrigues , Guaré Renata de Oliveira , Diniz Michele Baffi , Ferreira Maria Cristina Duarte
Published: December 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: Estudos têm demonstrado que quanto maior a severidade do dano neurológico em crianças com paralisia cerebral (PC), maior é o risco de doenças orais. OBJETIVO: Correlacionar a experiência de cárie com a osmolaridade salivar em crianças com PC. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Participaram do estudo 99 crianças (9,2±2,3 anos) com PC, em tratamento reabilitacional. A saliva de repouso foi coletada no período matutino, utilizando rolos absorventes (Salivette®) por cinco minutos. A osmolaridade salivar foi medida por depressão do ponto de congelamento em osmômetro. As avaliações incluíram a experiência de cárie pelo índice de dentes cariados, perdidos e obturados (CPOD), e o motor oral durante o processo de alimentação da criança. Foram utilizados os testes Qui-quadrado, t de Student, Correlação de Spearman e razão de chances (OR), com nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADO: O grupo 1 (G1) foi composto por 41 crianças livres de cárie e o grupo 2 (G2), por 58 crianças com cárie (CPOD=3,5±2,7). Os grupos foram homogêneos para gênero (p=0,884) e idade (p=0,174). Entretanto, diferiram significantemente com relação à motricidade oral, apresentando G2 maiores porcentagens de crianças com motor oral subfuncional (p<0,001) e tetraparéticos (p=0,001). O G2 apresentou valores significantemente maiores (p<0,001) para osmolaridade (99,6±36,7mOsml) quando comparado ao G1 (76,7±15,9mOsml). Observou-se uma correlação significante entre osmolaridade e experiência de cárie (p<0,001). Apresentar osmolaridade superior a 76,7 (OR=5,18; 1,85 a 14,83) foi determinante individual de maior probabilidade de apresentar risco de cárie (CPOD>0). CONCLUSÃO: Maiores valores de osmolaridade salivar aumentam o risco de cárie em crianças com PC.
Diagnosis of the nasolabial cyst: case report
Authors: Moitinho Ana Rafaela Motta , Rezende Cristiano Leal , Souza Sarah Mascarenhas , Cerqueira Arlei , Carvalho Bruno Andrade Cantharino de , Oliveira Márcio Campos
Published: December 2013

INTRODUCTION: The nasolabial cyst is classified in the group of non-odontogenic epithelial developmental cysts. Their occurrence is rare, however, they are located in the nasolabial sulcus, close to the alar insertion in the nose, external to the maxillary bone tissue. It is characterized as a floating tumor, generally asymptomatic, which promotes elevation on the nasal ala. OBJECTIVE: To report a case of nasolabial cyst addressing clinical, histopathological and radiological aspects, in order to alert professionals as regards their responsibility in diagnosis. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Female patient with a swelling in the region of the upper lip and nasal ala. After clinical examination, radiographic examination, puncture and aspiration, total surgical enucleation of the cyst was performed and the material collected was sent for histopathologic analysis. CONCLUSION: the dentist must be alert in order to make an early diagnosis, because it is not uncommon to overlook the lesion in the early stages.
Physical and computational modelling of residence and flow development time in a large municipal disinfection clearwell
Authors: Yu Xiaoli , Mazurek Kerry Anne , Putz Gordon , Albers Cory
Published: December 2013

In this study, a two-dimensional, depth-averaged computational model (River2DMix) was used to predict the flow pattern and residence time distribution for flow through the Calgary Glenmore Water Treatment Plant northeast clearwell. Results are compared to those from flow visualization and tracer studies in a 1  :  19 scale model of the clearwell, as well as tracer studies conducted at the plant. Tests were carried out for three flow rates that ranged from minimum to maximum operating conditions. A key observation in the physical model was that it was necessary to let the flow fully develop before starting a tracer test to determine the residence time distribution. This flow development time to achieve steady-state results was approximately 10·5  h at the minimum flow rate tested. Results also show that it was unnecessary to model the structural columns either in the simulation or the scale model for developed flow in this clearwell, although for undeveloped or transient flow conditions the columns were important to consider.
Use of carbon dioxide stripping for struvite crystallization to save caustic dosage: performance at pilotscale operation
Authors: Fattah K.P. , Zhang Y. , Mavinic D.S. , Koch F.A.
Published: December 2013

The feasibility of stripping CO2 from anaerobic digester centrate (generated in a sludge dewatering process) to raise pH, and therefore reduce the cost of caustic chemical(s) dosage for similar operation in a struvite-recovery system, was investigated. A cascade CO2 stripper was installed in a pilot-scale, struvite-recovery reactor system at the Lulu Island Wastewater Treatment Plant, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, as a replacement of part of (about 1/3) the reactor downpipe. Centrate was used as the process feed. Both the influent and the effluent from the struvite reactor were analyzed for pH, temperature (°C), and concentrations of Mg, NH4-N, and PO4-P. Results indicated that, by adding the CO2 stripper, caustic chemical savings was as much as 46%  –  65%. Moreover, because of the capability of the stripper in providing a more gradual pH increase, fewer fine solids were produced in the reactor than when caustic solution was used to raise the pH of the reactor.
Diverting electron fluxes towards sulfate reduction using linoleic acid in a mixed anaerobic culture
Authors: Sharma Mamata , Biswas Nihar
Published: December 2013

Sulfate (1500  mg/L) reduction and glucose (1870  mg/L) degradation was examined in the presence of five varying linoleic acid (LA) levels (100  –  1000  mg/L) at 37  ±  2°C and pH 7·0  –  7·2. The sulfate reduction and methane formation data suggest that LA selectively inhibited methane producing bacteria (MPB). The quantity of sulfate removed increased with increasing LA dosage. Approximately 1375  mg/L (92%) sulfate was removed in cultures fed with high concentrations of LA (1000  mg/L), which was 68% more than that removed in glucose and sulfate controls. The quantity of sulfate removed in cultures fed with 100, 300, 500 and 700  mg/L LA were 62%, 66%, 77%, and 84%, respectively. Initial sulfate degradation rates increased with increasing LA levels in the cultures. High LA levels (1000  mg/L) attributed to approximately a sevenfold increase in the initial sulfate degradation rates compared to cultures containing sulfate plus glucose. The highest initial sulfate removal rate (0·19  µg/(mgVSS  min)) was observed in cultures receiving 1000  mg/L LA. Initial glucose degradation rates decreased with increasing LA concentrations. The rates for the cultures receiving 1000  mg/L LA were 2·53  µg/(mgVSS  min) while the degradation rate for cultures containing 100  mg/L LA was 5·40  µg/(mgVSS  min). Methane formation decreased when sulfate and LA were added. Methane formation was lowest in cultures receiving elevated LA concentrations. The percent electron flow fluxes increased towards sulfidogenesis and decreased towards methanogenesis with increasing LA levels. Less than 0·6% electron flow was diverted to methanogenesis in cultures containing high levels of LA (≥700  mg/L) while ≤ 45% was diverted to sulfidogenesis. Acetate and propionate were the major volatile fatty acids (VFAs) detected during glucose degradation. The amount of sulfate reduced in the cultures receiving only LA or sulfate and no other carbon source was comparable (approximately 10%), which suggests that LA did not contribute to electrons during the course of experiment for sulfate reduction.
Fractional nonlinear systems with sequential operators
Authors: Mozyrska Dorota , Girejko Ewa , Wyrwas Małgorzata
Published: December 2013

In the paper possible approximation of solutions to initial value problems stated for fractional nonlinear equations with sequential derivatives of Caputo type is presented. We proved that values of Caputo derivatives in continuous case can be approximated by corresponding values of h-difference operators with h being small enough. Numerical examples are presented.
Reduced-order anti-synchronization of the projections of the fractional order hyperchaotic and chaotic systems
Authors: Srivastava Mayank , Agrawal Saurabh , Das Subir
Published: December 2013

The article aims to study the reduced-order anti-synchronization between projections of fractional order hyperchaotic and chaotic systems using active control method. The technique is successfully applied for the pair of systems viz., fractional order hyperchaotic Lorenz system and fractional order chaotic Genesio-Tesi system. The sufficient conditions for achieving anti-synchronization between these two systems are derived via the Laplace transformation theory. The fractional derivative is described in Caputo sense. Applying the fractional calculus theory and computer simulation technique, it is found that hyperchaos and chaos exists in the fractional order Lorenz system and fractional order Genesio-Tesi system with order less than 4 and 3 respectively. The lowest fractional orders of hyperchaotic Lorenz system and chaotic Genesio-Tesi system are 3.92 and 2.79 respectively. Numerical simulation results which are carried out using Adams-Bashforth-Moulton method, shows that the method is reliable and effective for reduced order anti-synchronization.
First-principles calculations of structural, electronic and thermal properties of Zn1−x MgxS ternary alloys
Authors: Lamraoui Samia , Bensalem Rachid , Hacini Khadidja , Meradji Hocine , Ghemid Sebti , Hassan Fouad
Published: December 2013

Structural, electronic and thermal properties of Zn1−x MgxS ternary alloys are studied by using the full potential-linearized augmented plane wave method (FP-LAPW) within the density functional theory (DFT). The Wu-Cohen generalized gradient approximation (WC-GGA) is used in this approach for the exchangecorrelation potential. Moreover, the modified Becke-Johnson approximation (mBJ) is adopted for band structure calculations. The dependence of the lattice constant, bulk modulus and band gap on the composition x showed that the first exhibits a small deviation from the Vegard’s law, whereas, a marginal deviation of the second from linear concentration dependence (LCD). The bowing of the fundamental gap versus composition predicted by our calculations agrees well with the available theoretical data. The microscopic origins of the gap bowing are explained by using the approach of Zunger and co-workers. Thermal effects on some macroscopic properties of Zn1−x MgxS alloys are also investigated using the quasi-harmonic Debye model, in which the phononic effects are considered. As, this is the first quantitative theoretical prediction of the thermal properties of Zn1−x MgxS alloys, no other calculated results and furthermore no experimental studies are available for comparison.
Complex lag synchronization of two identical chaotic complex nonlinear systems
Authors: Mahmoud Emad , Abualnaja Kholod
Published: December 2013

Much progress has been made in the research of synchronization for chaotic real or complex nonlinear systems. In this paper we introduce a new type of synchronization which can be studied only for chaotic complex nonlinear systems. This type of synchronization may be called complex lag synchronization (CLS). A definition of CLS is introduced and investigated for two identical chaotic complex nonlinear systems. Based on Lyapunov function a scheme is designed to achieve CLS of chaotic attractors of these systems. The effectiveness of the obtained results is illustrated by a simulation example. Numerical results are plotted to show state variables, modulus errors and phase errors of these chaotic attractors after synchronization to prove that CLS is achieved.
Spectroscopic properties of the Pr3+ ion in TeO2-WO3-PbO-La2O3 and TeO2-WO3-PbO-Lu2O3 glasses
Authors: Burtan Bożena , Sitarz Maciej , Lisiecki Radosław , Ryba-Romanowski Witold , Jeleń Piotr , Cisowski Jan , Reben Manuela
Published: December 2013

The goal of this work was to investigate the spectroscopic properties of Pr3+ ions, embedded in two different tellurite glass matrices, TeO2-WO3-PbO-La2O3 and TeO2-WO3-PbO-Lu2O3. The absorption and fluorescence spectra have been recorded and analyzed in terms of the Judd-Ofelt theory along with the luminescence decay of the 3P0 and 1D2 levels of the Pr3+ ion. The spectroscopic studies were completed with ellipsometric measurements providing the dispersion relation of the refractive index of the investigated glasses.
Exploration of the in vitro cytotoxic and antiviral activities of different medicinal plants against infectious bursal disease (IBD) virus
Authors: Ahmad Waqas , Ejaz Sohail , Anwar Khaleeq , Ashraf Muhammad
Published: December 2013

Infectious bursal disease (IBD) caused by non-enveloped double stranded RNA virus is an acute and contagious poultry disease. Outbreak of IBD could result in 10–75% mortality of the birds; hence it has gained socio-economic importance worldwide. Medicinal plants have shown broad spectrum anti-viral activities against RNA and DNA viruses. Moringa oleifera Lam (MOL), Phyllanthus emblicus Linn (PEL), Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn (GGL), and Eugenia jambolana Lam (EJL) are commonly available medicinal plants of the sub-continent and exhibited anti-viral potential against different viruses. Ethanolic extracts of the leaves of MOL and EJL, roots of GGL and dried fruit of PEL were investigated for their cytotoxic and anti-viral potential against IBD virus using MTT colorimetric assay and anti-viral assay. Significant anti-viral potential (P<0.001) was demonstrated at concentrations 12.5, 25, 50 and 100 µg ml−1 of GGL, PEL, MOL and EJL, respectively, with no cytotoxicity. Data also spotlighted that all tested plant extracts possess significant anti-viral potential and this trend was higher in GGL followed by PEL, MOL, and EJL. The data undoubtedly conclude that these medicinal plants contain several health beneficial phyto-chemicals which got significant anti-viral potential and effectively be utilized against IBD virus. Moreover, the outcomes of this study provide a platform on the way to discover novel anti-viral agents against IBD virus and other viruses from plant origin.
Effect of irrigation on yield parameters and antioxidant profiles of processing cherry tomato
Authors: Pék Zoltán , Szuvandzsiev Péter , Daood Hussein , Neményi András , Helyes Lajos
Published: December 2013

A two-year (2010 and 2011) open field experiment was conducted to study the effect of drip irrigation and seasonal variation on the yield parameters and main bioactive components, carotenoids (mainly all trans, cis lycopene, and β-carotene), polyphenols (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, gallic acid, quercetin, rutin, naringin, etc.), and tocopherols of processing Strombolino F1 cherry tomatoes. The irrigated plants (STI) gave a higher marketable yield (61% and 101% respectively), and rain fed plants showed a yield loss. Water supply had a strong positive (R2=0.98) effect on marketable yield in 2011, but weak (R2=0.69) in 2010. In both years, the antioxidant concentration (all carotenoids, total polyphenols, tocopherols) showed a decrease with irrigation. Water supply affected the composition of carotenoids to a considerable extent. The optimum water supply treatment gave a lower proportion of lycopene than the rain fed control (STC) treatment. We observed significant negative correlation between rutin concentration and irrigation. The α-tocopherol concentration was significantly higher in STC treatments. Irrigation negatively influenced antioxidant concentrations of cherry tomato fruits, but higher yield could account for the concentration loss of individual fruits by higher antioxidant production per unit area.
Prevalence and phenology of white-nose syndrome fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans in bats from Poland
Authors: Sachanowicz Konrad , Stępień Arkadiusz , Ciechanowski Mateusz
Published: December 2013

Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), a parasitic fungus (being responsible for a disease known as white-nose syndrome, WNS) that caused mass mortality of cave-dwelling, hibernating bats in North America, appears to be native of Europe, where it also occurs on wintering bats, but no similar outbreaks of WNS have been recorded. Herein, we provide the first account on prevalence and phenology of P. destructans in Poland. Bats were counted once per month, from October or January to May (2010-2013), in an abandoned ore mine in southern Poland. Presence of P. destructans in two samples was confirmed by sequencing of isolated fungal DNA. Observations of phenotypically identical mycosis on bats hibernating at this site in March 2006 are likely to be the first known records of P. destructans from Poland. All Pd-suspected individuals were Myotis myotis with an exception of one Myotis daubentonii. The first Pd-suspected bats were noted in mid-February, but their number was the highest in March, what overlapped with maximum numbers of hibernating M. myotis. The prevalence in March was 7%–27% of M. myotis individuals. No mass mortality of bats was observed in the mine, with only three dead individuals found in the hibernaculum which hosted up to 130 bats, representing 6–7 species.
Microthermomechanical infrared sensors
Authors: Steffanson M. , Rangelow I.
Published: December 2013

We present a state-of-the-art overview of microthermomechanical infrared sensor technology. The working principle of this sensor is based on a bi-material actuated micromechanical deflection, generated by an induced temperature rise due to incident infrared radiation absorption. In order to generate a thermal image the thermomechanical deflections of the freestanding microstructures are read by either capacitive, piezoresistive or optical means. Research and development activities in this field began in the early 1990s. The development of this technology within the last 20 years has resulted in innovations such as uncooled multiband infrared detection, high-speed infrared sensing and uncooled THz imaging. This paper outlines representative milestones of this technology and analyses important results of notable groups. Significant activities on capacitive and optical readout techniques of thermomechanical infrared arrays are presented. Furthermore the advantages of microthermomechanical infrared sensors over current well-established uncooled infrared technologies are summarized. In conclusion the latest developments of this technology offer a highly potential solution for a variety of important energy-saving, safety and security applications.
Influence Of Calcium On Water Relation Of Two Cultivars Of Wheat Under Salt Stress
Authors: Akhter Nahid , Hossainn F , Karim A
Published: December 2013

The purpose of the present investigation was to study the effects of Ca2+ on water relation of two wheat cultivars (Akbar and Kanchan) under salt stress. The two wheat cultivars were grown in pots with 0 and 150 mM NaCl salinity. Calcium was applied in the form of gypsum in 0.12, 0.24 and 0.36g pot-1 (that is 20, 40 and 60 kg ha-1) respectively. Salinity decreased RWC, WRC, exudation rate and ψleaf, while increased WSD and WUC. Application of increased levels of Ca improved the plant water status in both cultivars. The results obtained in the present study suggest that elevated Ca2+ increases salt tolerance by improving the plant water status. International Journal of Environment, Volume-2, Issue-1, Sep-Nov 2013, Pages 1-8 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v2i1.9202
Traffic Related Aerosol Exposure And Their Risk Assessment Of Associated Metals In Delhi, India
Authors: Kushwaha Rajesh , Hazarika Naba , Srivastava Arin
Published: December 2013

A pilot study was carried out in New Delhi, India, to assess the level of traffic related aerosol exposure, individually and associated metals. These investigations also try to formulate their risk assessment using different modes of transport on a typical journey to work route and compared Bus, Auto-rickshaws and Bike (Two Wheelers) during the journey. The inhalable particulate matter monitored in winter period and also evaluated the potential health risk due to inhalation in the study. The exposure of Particulate matter was observed maximum in the Bike (502 ± 176.38 μgm-3) and minimum in the Auto-rickshaw (208.15 ± 61.38 μgm-3). In case of human exposure to metals (viz. Cu, Cd, Mn, Pb, Ni, Co, Cr, Fe, Zn), it was mostly exposed by Fe, Zn and Co and least exposed by Cd, Cr and Pb. Human health risk was estimated based on exposure and dosage response. The assessment of particulate-bound elements was calculated by assuming exposure of 6 h. The findings indicated that the exposure to particulate bound elements have relatively more adverse health effects. International Journal of Environment, Volume-2, Issue-1, Sep-Nov 2013, Pages 26-36 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v2i1.9205
Prevalence Of Hepatitis B Virus Among Hiv Positive Patients Attending Specialist Hospital Sokoto, Nigeria
Authors: Aliyu B , Manga B , Isa MA
Published: December 2013

Prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection among HIV patients attending Sokoto specialist Hospital, Sokoto state, Nigeria was carried out between June and July, 2012, using Diaspot HbsAg kit (preliminary test) and Biorex Diagnostic ELISA kit (Confirmatory test). Demographic data, clinical characteristics and laboratory results (Questionnaire, CD4 counts and HBsAg) were analyzed. Out of 140 HIV patients tested for hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg) only 19 individuals were found positive given the prevalence rate of 13.6% (19/140) among HIV patients. The statistical analysis has shown that there was no observable statistical significant difference between demographic data, clinical characteristics and risk factors with respect to HBV infection. Two of the 140 HIV patients were in the chronic stage of the infection giving a prevalence of 1.43% and two of the patients were at the acute stage of the infection with a percentage prevalence of 1.43% while the remaining fifteen patients were in the active stage of the infection. There was no statistically significant relationship between the mean CD4 counts (428cells/μl of blood) in HIV monoinfected patients and the mean CD4 counts (391.1579cells/μl of blood) in HBV/HIV co-infected individuals (t=22.1351,df=1,p-value=0.02874,95 percent confidence interval: 174.435 – 644.5648, mean=409.5). Therefore, HIV patients should be screened for HBV during their clinical visit in order to inform clinical management, also adequate care and support programs should be organized to help people living with both infections. International Journal of Environment, Volume-2, Issue-1, Sep-Nov 2013, Pages 37-44 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v2i1.9206
Ecosystem Approach To Flood Disaster Risk Reduction
Authors: Kamble RK , Walia Abhinav , Thakare MG
Published: December 2013

India is one of the ten worst disaster prone countries of the world. The country is prone to disasters due to number of factors; both natural and anthropogenic, including adverse geo-climatic conditions, topographical features, environmental degradation, population growth, urbanisation, industrlisation, non-scientific development practices etc. The factors either in original or by accelerating the intensity and frequency of disasters are responsible for heavy toll of human lives and disrupting the life support systems in the country. India has 40 million hectares of the flood-prone area, on an average, flood affect an area of around 7.5 million hectares per year. Knowledge of environmental systems and processes are key factors in the management of disasters, particularly the hydro-metrological ones. Management of flood risk and disaster is a multi-dimensional affair that calls for interdisciplinary approach. Ecosystem based disaster risk reduction builds on ecosystem management principles, strategies and tools in order to maximise ecosystem services for risk reduction. This perspective takes into account the integration of social and ecological systems, placing people at the centre of decision making. The present paper has been attempted to demonstrate how ecosystem-based approach can help in flood disaster risk reduction. International Journal of Environment, Volume-2, Issue-1, Sep-Nov 2013, Pages 70-82 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v2i1.9209
Diseases In The Aquarium Fishes: Challenges And Areas Of Concern: An Overview
Authors: Rao M Vishwas , Kumar TT Ajith , Haq MA Badhul
Published: December 2013

Progress over the past years has revealed much strength of the ornamental fish as an alternative model for the environmental sideline in the aquaculture both in fresh water and marine waters. These include low rearing costs, an earlier life stage. Aquarium fish are one of the largest groups of pets in the world. There is an increasing demand for the veterinary services that are related to the ornamental fish. Early clinical signs in many infectious and noninfectious diseases of fish are manifested by the skin. More diseases in fish have been described and have been associated with the research for the future has been discussed. This article also describes the more common environmental and pathogen related dermatologic diseases of the aquarium fishes. Disease prevention, control and various treatment methods also have been discussed. International Journal of Environment, Volume-2, Issue-1, Sep-Nov 2013, Pages 127-146 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v2i1.9216
Antibacterial Activityof Aqueous And Ethanolic Leaf Extracts Of Vernonia Amygdalina On Selected Species Of Gram Positive And Gram Negative Bacteria
Authors: Bukar AM , Isa MA , Bello HS , Abdullahi AS
Published: December 2013

The phytochemical screening and antibacterial activity of ethanolic and Methanolic leaves extract of Vernonia amygdalina against five clinical isolates (Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Pseudomonas species, Salmonella species and Proteus species) was determined using standard method of analysis. The results of the antibacterial activity of ethanol, methanol and aqueous extract of leaves of V. amygdalina have diameters ranging between 0.4 to 10mm. The plant extracts from the plants had profound activities against gram-positive than gram negative bacteria. From the above studies, it has clearly indicated that V. amygdalina extract may represent new sources of antibacterial drug, if the phytoactive components are purified and proper dosage are determined for administration. International Journal of Environment, Volume-2, Issue-1, Sep-Nov 2013, Pages 147-152 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v2i1.9217
Study Of Plant Regeneration Potential In Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest In Northern India
Authors: Mishra Ashish K , Bajpai Omesh , Sahu Nayan , Kumar Anoop , Behera Soumit K , Mishra RM , Chaudhary Lal Babu
Published: December 2013

Regeneration patterns of species population can address climate change by adaptive evolution or by migrating association to survive in their favorable climate and finally decided to particular forest future. In this paper we examined the status of regeneration potential of tree species in tropical moist deciduous forest at Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Northern India. To investigate tree, sapling and seedling population distribution, we examine regeneration status in 145 random plots in study area. Total 74 plant species of 60 genera belonging to 32 families out of which 71 species of trees, 56 of seedlings and 60 of saplings were found in the forest. On the basis of importance value index Mallotus philippensis, Tectona grandis, Shorea robusta, Syzygium cumini and Bombax ceiba have been found as dominant species in the study area. As far as the regeneration status is concerned, the maximum tree species (64%) have been found in good regeneration category. Significant variations in species richness and population density, between three life form (i. e. tree, sapling and seedling) have been found. In which only three new tree species Prosopis juliflora, Psidium guajava and Morus alba were added in sapling and seedling stage. It is major ecological concern that about 19 % economically important plant species like Madhuca longifolia, Terminalia elliptica, Buchanania cochinchinensis, some Ficus species etc. have been found in poor regeneration phage, whereas about 7% species found in no regeneration categories. International Journal of Environment, Volume-2, Issue-1, Sep-Nov 2013, Pages 153-163 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v2i1.9218
Prevalence Of Traditional Medications Through Native Floral Elements Among Tribal Communities Of Kachchh Arid Ecosystem, Gujarat, India
Authors: Joshi Ekta B , Jain BK , Joshi Pankaj N , Soni Hiren B
Published: December 2013

This communication deals with the documentation of 38 medicinal plant species used for indigenous medications by local villagers such as pastoralists (Maldharis) and farmers of Tapkeshwari Hill Range (THR), Bhuj Taluka, Kachchh District, Gujarat, India. Traditional knowledge on medicinally important plant species has been recorded from tribal communities through semi-questionnaire survey using an open-ended questionnaire datasheets. The response from the people interviewed clearly indicated that most of the villagers were fully or partially dependent on the forest produce for their primary healthcare requirements as well as for curing chronic or acute disorders and ailments. Plant parts such as bark, flowers, fruits, gum, latex, leaves, roots, seeds, and spadix, were found to be used for the cure of bronchitis, cold, cough, diabetes, diarrhea, dropsy, dysentery, earache, fever, fistula, gastric troubles, hypothermia, indigestion, piles, skin diseases, snake-bites, toothache, and ulcer. The most predominantly used 10 plant species in the area are Asparagus racemosus, Balanites aegyptiaca, Capparis cartilaginea, Cassia auriculata, Commiphora wightii, Enicostema axillare, Fagonia schweienfurthii, Maytenus emerginata, Tinospora cordifolia, and Tribulus terrestris. An enumeration of these 38 medicinal plant species is presented; each species is cited with correct scientific names, vernacular names, ailments treated for, mode of preparation and dosages. International Journal of Environment, Volume-2, Issue-1, Sep-Nov 2013, Pages 184-201 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v2i1.9221
Effects Of Land Use On The Nature And Population Of Microorganisms In The Semi-Arid Region Of North-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Bello HS , Isa T , Isa MA , Akinmuisere K
Published: December 2013

This study was aim to investigate the effects of land use on the nature and population of microorganisms in soil from five different farms within University of Maiduguri, Borno State. A total of ten composite samples were obtained and analyzed in the laboratory. The total microbial population was consistently higher in the grazing reserved land with mean of 105x104CFU/g than in cultivated farms with means of 84.5x104CFU/g, 66x104CFU/g and 66x104CFU/g, for cereal (sorghum), beans and tomato farms respectively. The site with the least microbial population was gum-Arabic plantation with the mean of 29x104CFU/g. Bacteria were the most dominant species at all sites regardless of depths. International Journal of Environment, Volume-2, Issue-1, Sep-Nov 2013, Pages 224-230 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v2i1.9223
Trends In Seasonal Precipitation And Temperature – A Review In Doti And Surkhet Districts Of Nepal
Authors: Bhandari Govinda
Published: December 2013

Rainfall and temperature are the crucial factors for affecting the yield of cereals. The annual mean temperature in Surkhet and Doti district is 21.47°C and 22.84°C respectively. The annual total rainfall in Doti and Surkhet district is 1145 mm and 1609 mm respectively. The average seasonal rainfall in (July-November) in Doti and Surkhet is 670.7 mm and 1109 mm. The average seasonal rainfall in (November-March) in Doti and Surkhet is 168 mm and 135 mm. The average seasonal rainfall in (March-June) in Doti and Surkhet is 352 mm and 389 mm. The average seasonal mean temperature in (July-November) in Doti and Surkhet is 25.76°C and 23.7°C. The average seasonal mean temperature in (November-March) in Doti and Surkhet is 16.67°C and 15.48°C. The average seasonal mean temperature in (March-June) in Doti and Surkhet is 25.5°C and 24.69°C. The analysis of meteorological data indicated that the temperature of both districts is on a rising trend. It has been observed no any trend in total seasonal rainfall during wheat and barley growing season (November-March) in Surkhet. Also, the seasonal total rainfall during maize growing period (March-June) has not shown any trend in Doti. Besides, decreasing trend of annual rainfall has been observed in Doti whereas increasing trend of annual rainfall is observed in Surkhet. The temperature in 1985 in Doti and Surkhet has increased and the rainfall in the same year and same districts has decreased that has negatively affected the yield of all the major cereals except wheat. International Journal of Environment, Volume-2, Issue-1, Sep-Nov 2013, Pages 269-279 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v2i1.9227
Perioperative Prophylactic Antibiotics in Orthopaedic Surgery
Authors: Shrestha Bikram Prasad , Niraula Surya Raj , Nepal Parvin , Khanal Guru Prasad , Karn Navin , Chaudhary Pashupati , Rijal Raju , Maharjan Rajiv
Published: December 2013

Introduction: In our country, various institutes have different protocols for postoperative antibiotics. Many western literature have mentioned that administration of prophylactic antibiotics for longer than 24 hours has no advantage and may actually lead to superinfection with drug-resistant organisms. Because of environmental and theater condition most of the surgeon here are very reluctant to use prophylactic antibiotics for only 24 hours. The objective of the study was to find out the effect of duration of prophylactic antibiotics on the rate of surgical site infection in clean elective orthopaedic surgeries. Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial involving 207 clean elective orthopaedic patients undergoing surgery. The patients were divided into three groups which received intravenous prophylactic antibiotics for 24 hours, 48 hours and 48 hours followed by 7 days of oral antibiotics respectively. The patients were followed up for three months postoperatively. Result: There was no significant difference in the rate of surgical site infection among the three groups. Conclusion: We conclude that there is no benefit in prolonging prophylactic antibiotics beyond 24 hours. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/noaj.v3i1.9318   Nepal Orthopedic Association Journal 2013 Vol.3(1): 5-10
Prevalence of Malocclusion Among Medical Students in Institute of Medicine, Nepal: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Shrestha Basanta K , Yadav Rajiv , Gyawali Rajesh , Gupta Sanjay
Published: December 2013

Introduction: Malocclusion is a malrelationship between the arches in any of the planes or in which there are anomalies in tooth position beyond the normal limits. The epidemiological data has a key role in planning which varies among different countries, ethnic groups and age groups. Aims and objective: To find out the prevalence of malocclusion among medical students of IOM.

Materials and method: Quantitative, cross-sectional descriptive study among MBBS students of Maharajgunj Medical Campus from first year to final year was done; participating voluntarily. A standard format was prepared to record the data.

Result: Normal occlusion was found to be in 9.6%. The prevalence of Class I, Class II and Class III malocclusion were 44.09 %, 30.1 % and 16.12 % respectively. The various occlusal traits included increased overjet (12.9 %), increased overbite (26.9 %), scissor bite (3.2 %), posterior crossbite (18.3 %), spacing (12.9 %), Crowding (51.5 %), missing teeth (18.3 %).

Conclusion: The prevalence of normal occlusion is 9.6% and malocclusion is found to be 90.4%. Class I malocclusion is most prevalent followed by Class II malocclusion and the Class III malocclusion.
Mix Design Factors to Reduce Noise in Hot-Mix Asphalt
Authors: Cong Ling , Swiertz Daniel , Bahia Hussain
Published: December 2013

Noise generated from high-trafficked roadways is a significant source of noise pollution in urban environments. As population centers continue to expand, so too does the demand for quiet, serviceable pavements. Traffic noise is derived from two basic sources: standard vehicle engine operation and tire–road interaction. Reduction of the former has been a goal of automobile manufacturers since the introduction of automobiles nearly a century ago, but little focused research has been applied to the latter, especially in the United States. Research to determine the mix design factors that significantly influence noise generation in asphalt pavements is almost nonexistent. This study investigates the mix design and construction factors that influence noise generation in dense-graded hot-mix asphalt by means of noise prediction models. Laser profiling systems are used to measure pavement surface texture parameters. Models that predict noise generation as a function of these surface texture parameters are used to demonstrate the sensitivity of noise generation to commonly encountered mix design and construction variables for hot-mix asphalt. After various mixtures produced in the laboratory were characterized and various field sections were profiled, statistical analysis was conducted to determine the effect of mix variables on texture and estimated noise. Results indicate that reduction in noise at the tire–pavement interface can be achieved by considering specific mix design parameters, including gradation, asphalt content, and nominal maximum aggregate size. The percentage of air voids in the mixture (compaction effort) was also found to significantly influence tire–road noise emission.