Abstract: It is the patient compliance and stability in
combination with controlled drug delivery and biocompatibility that
forms the core feature in present research and development of
sustained biodegradable patch formulation intended for wound
healing. The aim was to impart sustained degradation, sterile
formulation, significant folding endurance, elasticity,
biodegradability, bio-acceptability and strength. The optimized
formulation comprised of polymers including Hydroxypropyl methyl
cellulose, Ethylcellulose, and Gelatin, and Citric Acid PEG Citric
acid (CPEGC) triblock dendrimers and active Curcumin. Polymeric
mixture dissolved in geometric order in suitable medium through
continuous stirring under ambient conditions. With continued stirring
Curcumin was added with aid of DCM and Methanol in optimized
ratio to get homogenous dispersion. The dispersion was sonicated
with optimum frequency and for given time and later casted to form a
patch form. All steps were carried out under strict aseptic conditions.
The formulations obtained in the acceptable working range were
decided based on thickness, uniformity of drug content, smooth
texture and flexibility and brittleness. The patch kept on stability
using butter paper in sterile pack displayed folding endurance in
range of 20 to 23 times without any evidence of crack in an
optimized formulation at room temperature (RT) (24 ± 2°C). The
patch displayed acceptable parameters after stability study conducted
in refrigerated conditions (8±0.2°C) and at RT (24 ± 2°C) up to 90
days. Further, no significant changes were observed in critical
parameters such as elasticity, biodegradability, drug release and drug
content during stability study conducted at RT 24±2°C for 45 and 90
days. The drug content was in range 95 to 102%, moisture content
didn’t exceeded 19.2% and patch passed the content uniformity test.
Percentage cumulative drug release was found to be 80% in 12h and
matched the biodegradation rate as drug release with correlation
factor R2>0.9. The biodegradable patch based formulation developed
shows promising results in terms of stability and release profiles.
Abstract: The present study aims to investigate the performance
of Moringa oleifera seed extract as natural coagulant in clarification
of secondary wastewater treatment plant (MWWTP) located in East
of Algiers, Algeria. Coagulation flocculation performance of
Moringa oleifera was evaluated through supernatant residual
turbidity after jar test trials. Various influence parameters namely
Moringa oleifera dosage and pH have been considered. Tests on
Reghaia wastewater, having 129 NTU of initial turbidity, showed a
removal of 69.45% of residual turbidity with only 1.5 mg/l of
Moringa oleifera. This sufficient removal capability encourages the
use of this bioflocculant for treatment of turbid waters. Indeed,
Moringa oleifera which is a natural resource available locally (South
of Algeria) coupled to the non-toxicity, biocompatibility and
biodegradability, may be a very interesting alternative to the
conventional coagulants used so far.
Abstract: This study was carried out for an underground subway station at Seoul Metro, Korea. The optimal set-points of the ventilation control system are determined every 3 hours, then, the ventilation controller adjusts the ventilation fan speed according to the optimal set-point changes. Compared to manual ventilation system which is operated irrespective of the OAQ, the IDP-based ventilation control system saves 3.7% of the energy consumption. Compared to the fixed set-point controller which is operated irrespective of the IAQ diurnal variation, the IDP-based controller shows better performance with a 2% decrease in energy consumption, maintaining the comfortable IAQ range inside the station.
Abstract: Electrostatic interaction energy (ΔEEDL) is a part of the Extended Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (XDLVO) theory, which, together with van der Waals (ΔEVDW) and acid base (ΔEAB) interaction energies, has been extensively used to investigate the initial adhesion of bacteria to surfaces. Electrostatic or electrical double layer interaction energy is considerably affected by surface potential; however it cannot be determined experimentally and is usually replaced by zeta (ζ) potential via electrophoretic mobility. This paper focusses on the effect of ionic concentration as a function of pH and the effect of mineral grain size on ζ potential. It was found that both ionic strength and mineral grain size play a major role in determining the value of ζ potential for the adhesion of P. putida to hematite and quartz surfaces. Higher ζ potential values lead to higher electrostatic interaction energies and eventually to higher total XDLVO interaction energy resulting in bacterial repulsion.
Abstract: The fuel potential of six tropical hardwood species
namely: Triplochiton scleroxylon, Ceiba pentandra, Aningeria
robusta, Terminalia superba, Celtis mildbreadii and Piptadenia
africana were studied. Properties studied included species density,
gross calorific value, volatile matter, ash content, organic carbon and
elemental composition. Fuel properties were determined using
standard laboratory methods. The result indicates that the gross
calorific value (GCV) of the species ranged from 20.16 to 22.22
MJ/kg and they slightly varied from each other. Additionally, the
GCV of the biomass materials were higher than that of other biomass
materials like; wheat straw, rice straw, maize straw and sugar cane.
The ash and volatile matter content varied from 0.6075 to 5.0407%,
and 75.23% to 83.70% respectively. The overall rating of the
properties of the six biomass materials suggested that Piptadenia
africana has the best fuel property to be used as briquettes and
Aningeria robusta the worse. This study therefore suggests that a
holistic assessment of a biomass material needs to be done before
selecting it for fuel purpose.
Abstract: This study aimed to explore the practical experience
of child welfare caseworkers and professionalism in child case
management in Malaysia. This paper discussed the specific social
work practice competency and the challenges faced by child
caseworkers in the fieldwork. This research was qualitative with
grounded theory approach. Four sessions of focused group discussion
(FGD) were conducted involving a total of 27 caseworkers (child
protector and probation officers) in the Klang Valley. The study
found that the four basic principles of knowledge in child case
management namely: 1. knowledge in child case management; 2.
professional values of caseworkers towards children; 3. skills in
managing cases; and 4. culturally competent practice in child case
management. In addition, major challenges faced by the child case
manager are the capacity and commitment of the family in children’s
rehabilitation program, the credibility of caseworkers are being
challenged, and the challenges of support system from intra and interagency.
This study is important for policy makers to take into account
the capacity and the needs of the child’s caseworker in accordance
with the national social work competency framework. It is expected
that case management services for children will improve
systematically in line with national standards.
Abstract: The research aims to study the association between
job satisfaction, motivation and the five factors of organizational
citizenship behavior (i.e. Altruism, Conscientiousness,
Sportsmanship, Courtesy and Civic virtue) among Public Sector
Employees in Pakistan. In this research Structure Equation Modeling
with confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the relationship
between two independent and five dependent variables. Data was
collected through questionnaire survey from 152 Public Servants
Working in Gujrat District-Pakistan in different capacities. Stratified
Random Sampling Technique was used to conduct this survey. The
results of the study indicate that five factors of OCB have positive
significant relation with both motivation and job satisfaction except
the relationship of Civic Virtue with Motivation. The research
findings implicate that factors other than motivation and job
satisfaction may also affect OCB. Likewise, all the five factors of
OCB may not be present in all populations. Thus, Managers must
concentrate on increasing motivation and job satisfaction to increase
OCB. Furthermore, the present research gives a direction to future
researchers to use more independent variables (e.g. Culture,
leadership, workplace environment, various job attitudes, types of
motivation, etc.) on different types of populations with larger sample
size in order to find the reasons behind insignificant relationship of
civic virtue with Motivation in the research in hand and to generalize
the tested model.
Abstract: Passive control methods can be utilized to build
earthquake resistant structures, and also to strengthen the vulnerable
ones. In this paper, we studied the effect of this system in increasing
the ductility and energy dissipation and also modeled the behavior of
this type of eccentric bracing, and compared the hysteresis diagram
of the modeled samples with the laboratory samples. We studied
several samples of frames with vertical shear-links in order to assess
the behavior of this type of eccentric bracing. Each of these samples
was modeled in finite element software ANSYS 9.0, and was
analyzed under the static cyclic loading. It was found that vertical
shear-links have a more stable hysteresis loops. Another analysis
showed that using honeycomb beams as the horizontal beam along
with steel reinforcement has no negative effect on the hysteresis
behavior of the sample.
Abstract: In this paper, the notion of rank−k numerical range
of rectangular complex matrix polynomials are introduced. Some
algebraic and geometrical properties are investigated. Moreover, for
Є > 0, the notion of Birkhoff-James approximate orthogonality
sets for Є−higher rank numerical ranges of rectangular matrix
polynomials is also introduced and studied. The proposed definitions
yield a natural generalization of the standard higher rank numerical
ranges.
Abstract: This paper describes the collection and analysis of
data obtained from face-to-face interviews conducted in selected
Libyan industrial companies. The objectives of the interviews are to
enhance understanding, and generate explanations of current issues in
culture and quality management systems in Libyan companies. The
method used in analyzing the questions, as well as the main finding
of each question are explained. The interviews probed areas identify
national and organizational culture, quality management systems,
current methods, effects, barriers and other factors affecting the
success of quality management implementation. Eleven questions are
prepared and been discussed with the interviewees.
Abstract: The current paper presents the results of a conducted
case study. During the past few years the number of children
diagnosed with Learning Difficulties has drastically augmented and
especially the cases of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder). One of the core characteristics of ADHD is a deficit in
working memory functions. The review of the literature indicates a
plethora of educational software that aim at training and enhancing
the working memory. Nevertheless, in the current paper, the
possibility of using for the same purpose free, online games will be
explored. Another issue of interest is the potential effect of the
working memory training to the core symptoms of ADHD. In order
to explore the abovementioned research questions, three digital tests
are employed, all of which are developed on the E-slate platform by
the author, in order to check the levels of ADHD’s symptoms and to
be used as diagnostic tools, both in the beginning and in the end of
the case study. The tools used during the main intervention of the
research are free online games for the training of working memory.
The research and the data analysis focus on the following axes: a) the
presence and the possible change in two of the core symptoms of
ADHD, attention and impulsivity and b) a possible change in the
general cognitive abilities of the individual. The case study was
conducted with the participation of a thirteen year-old, female
student, diagnosed with ADHD, during after-school hours. The
results of the study indicate positive changes both in the levels of
attention and impulsivity. Therefore, we conclude that the training of
working memory through the use of free, online games has a positive
impact on the characteristics of ADHD. Finally, concerning the
second research question, the change in general cognitive abilities, no
significant changes were noted.
Abstract: Numerous investigations suggest that Mesenchymal
Stem Cells (MSCs) in general represent a valuable tool for therapy of
symptoms related to chronic inflammatory diseases. Blue Horizon
Stem Cell Therapy Program is a leading provider of adult and
children’s stem cell therapies. Uniquely we have safely and
efficiently treated more than 600 patients with documenting each
procedure. The purpose of our study is primarily to monitor the
immune response in order to validate the safety of intravenous
infusion of human umbilical cord blood derived MSCs (UC-MSCs),
and secondly, to evaluate effects on biomarkers associated with
chronic inflammation. Nine patients were treated for conditions
associated with chronic inflammation and for the purpose of antiaging.
They have been given one intravenous infusion of UCMSCs.
Our study of blood test markers of 9 patients with chronic
inflammation before and within three months after MSCs treatment
demonstrates that there is no significant changes and MSCs treatment
was safe for the patients. Analysis of different indicators of chronic
inflammation and aging included in initial, 24-hours, two weeks and
three months protocols showed that stem cell treatment was safe for
the patients; there were no adverse reactions. Moreover data from
follow up protocols demonstrates significant improvement in energy
level, hair, nails growth and skin conditions. Intravenously
administered UC-MSCs were safe and effective in the improvement
of symptoms related to chronic inflammation. Further close
monitoring and inclusion of more patients are necessary to fully
characterize the advantages of UC-MSCs application in treatment of
symptoms related to chronic inflammation.
Abstract: This paper proposes that in the course of evolution
pitch structure became a human specific tool of communication the
function of which is to induce emotional states such as uncertainty
and cohesion. By the means of eliciting these emotions during
collective music performance people are able to unconsciously give
cues concerning social acceptance. This is probably one of the
reasons why in all cultures people collectively perform tonal music. It
is also suggested that tonal pitch structure had been invented socially
before it became an evolutionary innovation of hominines. It means
that a predisposition to tonally organize pitches evolved by the means
of ‘Baldwin effect’ – a process in which natural selection transforms
the learned response of an organism into the instinctive response. In
the proposed, hypothetical evolutionary scenario of the emergence of
tonal pitch structure social forces such as a need for closer
cooperation play the crucial role.
Abstract: Laban Movement Analysis (LMA), developed in the
dance community over the past seventy years, is an effective method
for observing, describing, notating, and interpreting human
movement to enhance communication and expression in everyday
and professional life. Many applications that use motion capture data
might be significantly leveraged if the Laban qualities will be
recognized automatically. This paper presents an automated
recognition method of Laban qualities from motion capture skeletal
recordings and it is demonstrated on the output of Microsoft’s Kinect
V2 sensor.
Abstract: This paper introduces a method to optimal design of a
hybrid Wind/Photovoltaic/Fuel cell generation system for a typical
domestic load that is not located near the electricity grid. In this
configuration the combination of a battery, an electrolyser, and a
hydrogen storage tank are used as the energy storage system. The aim
of this design is minimization of overall cost of generation scheme
over 20 years of operation. The Matlab/Simulink is applied for
choosing the appropriate structure and the optimization of system
sizing. A teaching learning based optimization is used to optimize the
cost function. An overall power management strategy is designed for
the proposed system to manage power flows among the different
energy sources and the storage unit in the system. The results have
been analyzed in terms of technical and economic. The simulation
results indicate that the proposed hybrid system would be a feasible
solution for stand-alone applications at remote locations.
Abstract: Background: Diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy
(DSP) is one of the most common microvascular complications of
type 2 diabetes. Loss of sensation is thought to contribute to a lack of
static and dynamic stability and increased risk of falling. Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of low-level
laser (LLL) and monochromatic near-infrared photo energy (MIRE)
on pain, cutaneous sensation, static stability, and index of lower limb
blood flow in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy. Methods:
Forty diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy were recruited for
participation in this study. They were divided into two groups: The
MIRE group, which contained 20 patients, and the LLL group, which
contained 20 patients. All patients who participated in the study had
been subjected to various physical assessment procedures, including
pain, cutaneous sensation, Doppler flow meter, and static stability
assessments. The baseline measurements were followed by treatment
sessions that were conducted twice a week for six successive weeks.
Results: The statistical analysis of the data revealed significant
improvement of pain in both groups, with significant improvement in
cutaneous sensation and static balance in the MIRE group compared
to the LLL group; on the other hand, the results showed no
significant differences in lower limb blood flow between the groups.
Conclusion: LLL and MIRE can improve painful symptoms in
patients with diabetic neuropathy. On the other hand, MIRE is also
useful in improving cutaneous sensation and static stability in
patients with diabetic neuropathy.
Abstract: Graphene was dispersed using a tip sonicator and the
effect of surfactants were analysed. Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate (SDS)
and Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) were compared to observe whether or
not they had any effect on any de-wrinkling, and secondly whether
they aided to achieve better dispersions. There is a huge demand for
wrinkle free graphene as this will greatly increase its usefulness in
various engineering applications. A comprehensive literature on dewrinkling
graphene has been discussed. Low magnification Scanning
Electronic Microscopy (SEM) was conducted to assess the quality of
graphene de-wrinkling. The utilization of the PVA has significant
effect on de-wrinkling whereas SDS had minimal effect on the dewrinkling
of graphene.
Abstract: In this paper, relationship between different properties
of IC concrete and water cement ratio, obtained from a
comprehensive experiment conducted on IC using local materials
(Burnt clay chips- BC) is presented. In addition, saturated SAP was
used as an IC material in some cases. Relationships have been
developed through regression analysis. The focus of this analysis is
on developing relationship between a dependent variable and an
independent variable. Different percent replacements of BC and
water cement ratios were used. Compressive strength, modulus of
elasticity, water permeability and chloride permeability were tested
and variations of these parameters were analyzed with respect to
water cement ratio.
Abstract: Adequate analgesia following caesarean section
decreases morbidity, hastens ambulation, improves patient outcome
and facilitates care of the newborn. Intrathecal magnesium, an
NMDA antagonist, has been shown to prolong analgesia without
significant side effects in healthy parturients. The aim of this study
was to evaluate the onset and duration of sensory and motor block,
hemodynamic effect, postoperative analgesia, and adverse effects of
magnesium or fentanyl given intrathecally with hyperbaric 0.5%
bupivacaine in patients with mild preeclampsia undergoing caesarean
section. Sixty women with mild preeclampsia undergoing elective
caesarean section were included in a prospective, double blind,
controlled trial. Patients were randomly assigned to receive spinal
anesthesia with 2 mL 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine with 12.5 μg
fentanyl (group F) or 0.1 ml of 50% magnesium sulphate (50 mg)
(group M) with 0.15ml preservative free distilled water. Onset,
duration and recovery of sensory and motor block, time to maximum
sensory block, duration of spinal anaesthesia and postoperative
analgesic requirements were studied. Statistical comparison was
carried out using the Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests and
Independent Student’s t-test where appropriate. The onset of both
sensory and motor block was slower in the magnesium group. The
duration of spinal anaesthesia (246 vs. 284) and motor block (186.3
vs. 210) were significantly longer in the magnesium group. Total
analgesic top up requirement was less in group M. Hemodynamic
parameters were similar in both the groups. Intrathecal magnesium
caused minimal side effects. Since Fentanyl and other opioid
congeners are not available throughout the country easily,
magnesium with its easy availability and less side effect profile can
be a cost effective alternative to fentanyl in managing pregnancy
induced hypertension (PIH) patients given along with Bupivacaine
intrathecally in caesarean section.
Abstract: In this article, a new method is proposed for the measuring of well-being inequality through a model composed of superimposing satisfaction waves. The displacement of households’ satisfactory state (i.e. satisfaction) is defined in a satisfaction string. The duration of the satisfactory state for a given period is measured in order to determine the relationship between utility and total satisfactory time, itself dependent on the density and tension of each satisfaction string. Thus, individual cardinal total satisfaction values are computed by way of a one-dimensional form for scalar sinusoidal (harmonic) moving wave function, using satisfaction waves with varying amplitudes and frequencies which allow us to measure wellbeing inequality. One advantage to using satisfaction waves is the ability to show that individual utility and consumption amounts would probably not commute; hence, it is impossible to measure or to know simultaneously the values of these observables from the dataset. Thus, we crystallize the problem by using a Heisenberg-type uncertainty resolution for self-adjoint economic operators. We propose to eliminate any estimation bias by correlating the standard deviations of selected economic operators; this is achieved by replacing the aforementioned observed uncertainties with households’ perceived uncertainties (i.e. corrected standard deviations) obtained through the logarithmic psychophysical law proposed by Weber and Fechner.