bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Hepatotoxicity Model in Rats and its Application in Evaluation of Hepatoprotective Activity of Cell Wall Contents of
Probiotics
Authors: H. Shah G. , G. Patel B. , B. Shah G.
Published: September 2017

The objective of present work is Development of Hepatotoxicity model in rats and to evaluate hepatoprotective activity
of cell wall contents of probiotics. Animals were divided in four groups. The groups were normal saline group, diseased
control group, standard drug treated group and 4th group was CCl4 +Cell wall contents of probiotics. In diseased control
group chronic liver injury was induced by administration of Carbontetrachloride (CCl4) via intraperitoneal route (1 ml/kg)
for seventy days. For standard drug treated group 1 ml Silymarin suspension (Orally) and CCl4 was given for seventy days.
In fourth group cell wall contents (1 x 10 12 CFU/ml/animal) and CCl4 was given for seventy days. During disease
induction and treatment period blood samples were collected and serum was separated which was used to analyse various
parameters like Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase, (AST), Alkaline phosphate (ALP), direct
bilirubin, total protein and albumin levels to asses liver function. Along with these cholesterol, Glucose and
Malondialdehyde were also measured. Liver fibrosis and cirrhosis was quantified by histopathological studies of small
portion of the excised liver. Serum AST, ALT, ALP, and direct bilirubin were found to be significantly higher in CCl4
intoxicated rats. Total protein and albumin was decreased. Manondialdehyde was found to be significantly higher in CCl4
intoxicated rats which was main end product of Lipid Peroxidation. Whereas in cell wall contents probiotics and
silymarin treated group improve the liver functions in CCl4 toxicated rats. We conclude that protein oxidation may play a
role in the pathogenesis of CCl4 induced liver injury and that the accumulation of oxidised proteins may be an early
indication of CCl4 induced liver damage. Silymarin and cell wall contents of probiotics were effective in liver injury by
inhibiting protein oxidation.
Effect of Certain Oral Anti Diabetic Drugs on Coagulation Cascade in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: R. Patil T. , T. Patil S. , S. Patil , A. Patil
Published: September 2017

Thrombotic events in diabetics contribute for almost 65-80% of cardiovascular events. Diabetes affects the platelet, the
coagulation factors and fibrinolytic system leading to a state of hypercoagulation and hypofibrinolysis resulting in to
thrombosis. Oral drugs commonly used in management of type II diabetes mellitus are antidiabetics like metformin, PPAR-
γ agonist and DPP-4 inhibitor. They rarely produce hypoglycemia. Metformin has been proved to prevent release of
mtDNA from arachidonic acid stimulated platelets, reduce membrane damage and mitochondrial ROS production in the
platelets. Similarly processes like platelet adhesion, activation and aggregation on collagen coated surfaces which initiate
thrombosis are prevented by metformin. PPAR- γ agonists like pioglitazone and rosiglitazone have anti atherogenic effect.
They decrease the expression of inflammatory markers and affect the coagulation markers like factor VII: C and inhibit
platelet activation. Pioglitazone also reduces the VLDL, triglycerides and increases HDL which further contributes in
attenuation of atherosclerosis. DPP-4 inhibitors, which are relatively newer class of antidiabetics, having minimum
potential for hypoglycemia induction, due to their novel mechanism of action. Studies have proved that long term use of
DPP-4 inhibitors have reduced cardiac mortality by their lipid lowering action, increased release of NO from endothelium
and inhibition of TNF- α, PAI-1 and VCAM expression. Increased levels of stromal cell derived factor - 1α helps to
maintain endothelial homeostasis and vascular repair. Decreased oxidative stress, inhibition of inflammatory genes like IL-
6, IL-12, TNF- α provide additional benefit. Destabilization of vasculo-atherosclerotic plaque is prevented by DPP-4
inhibitors. Thus these oral antidiabetics drugs offer many benefits beyond blood glucose control which prevent
atherosclerosis, inhibits hypercoagulable state and enhances fibrinolysis which translates into decreased cardiac
complications in diabetes
Screening of Antidiabetic Activity of Extract and Fraction of Biophytum sensitivum in Rats Using STZ-Nicotinamide Induced
Diabetes Model
Authors: . Manisha , Suresh Kumar
Published: September 2017

The study was aimed at investigate the effect of methanolic extract of Phaseolus semierectus(L.) (Leguminosae) on general
mating behaviour, libido, and adverse effects on sexually normal male albino rats. Methanolic extract was administered
orally at the dose of 100, 200, and 400 mg / kg, to different groups of male rats (n = 8) once a day for 14 days. All the
doses resulted in significant increase in mount frequency, intromission frequency and anogenital sniffing when compared
to normal. The methanolic extract of Phaseolus semierectus (L.) seeds at higher concentration (400 mg/kg body weight)
showed significant aphrodisiac activity on male Wister albino rats as evidenced by an increase in number of mounts and
mating performance. Thus, in experimental rats, the results of the present study suggest that the methanolic extracts of
Phaseolus semierectus (L.) exert significant aphrodisiac activity.
A study of ovarian tumors at Kathmandu medical college teaching hospital
Authors: Pradhan Sailesh Bahadur , Chalise Sanat , Pradhan Binita , Maharjan Sailuja
Published: September 2017

Background: Ovarian cysts, which present as neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions, are the most common gynecological cause of hospital admissions. This study was conducted to know the spectrum of ovarian tumors.Materials and methods: A cross sectional study was carried out among all the ovarian specimens sent for histopathological examination.Results: Forty two cases were Surface epithelial tumours and 49 cases were germ cell tumour. Among Surface epithelial tumours, 34 (80.95%) were benign neoplasm, 2(4.76%) were borderline and 6 including one Krukenberg tumour (14.29%) were malignant neoplasm. Among all Germ cell tumours, 45 (91.84%) were Mature cystic teratoma, 1 (4.08%) was Immature cystic teratoma and 2 (4.08%) were Dysgerminoma. Conclusion: Incidence of Surface epithelial tumours and germ cell tumours were found to be almost equal with mild predominance of Germ cell tumour.
Immunohistoochemical evaluation of GATA-3, pAKT and Ki-67 in triple negative breast carcinoma
Authors: Aryal Gopi , Chhetri Aryal Sameer , Soejima Yurie , Sheckler Victoria , Eishi Yoshinobu , Sawabe Motoji
Published: September 2017

Background: Triple-negative breast cancers lack expression of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor -2. These tumors have been known to be clinically aggressive. We evaluate GATA-3, pAKT and Ki-67 expression in 35 triple negative breast carcinomas.Materials and Methods: A total of 35 triple negative breast carcinomas were included in this study. The histological subtyping was done according to Japanese guidelines for breast cancer.Results: GATA-3 was positive in 60% (21/35) of tumors. High GATA-3 expression was observed in ductal carcinoma in situ.  pAKT expression was demonstrated in 85.7 % (30/35) of TNBCs. The levels of expression of GATA-3 and pAKT showed no significant association with nuclear grading. (P=0.761 and P=0.487, respectively). Ki-67 labeling index was positively correlated with nuclear grading (p<0.001).Conclusion: GATA-3 expression has no relation with ER and PR expression and pAKT and GATA-3 are strongly expressed in TNBCs.
A rare case of Gingival Myeloid sarcoma in a child
Authors: Vishwanath Meghashree , Rao Purnima S , Pai Muktha R
Published: September 2017

Myeloid sarcoma is a rare tumour composed of immature myeloid cells. Its occurrence in childhood is rare. Only a few cases of intraoral myeloid sarcoma have been reported in literature. We present a case of myeloid sarcoma with simultaneous involvement of intraoral soft tissues and lymph node. Here, importance is given to suspect this frequently misdiagnosed disease.
Analysis of changes in the fuel component of the cost of electricity in the transition to a closed fuel cycle in nuclear power system
Authors: Gurin A. V. , Alekseev P. N.
Published: September 2017

This paper presents a study of scenarios of transition to a closed fuel cycle in the system of nuclear power, built basing on resource availability requirements at the stage of full life-cycle reactors. Conventionally, there are three main scenarios for the development of nuclear energy: with VVER reactors operating in an open fuel cycle; with VVER reactors operating in a closed fuel cycle; and co-operating VVER and BN, operating in a closed fuel cycle. For the considered scenarios, a quantitative estimation of change in time of material balances were performed, including spent fuel balance, balance of plutonium, reprocessed and depleted uranium, radioactive waste, and the analysis of the fuel component of the cost of electricity.
A methodology for the estimation of the radiological consequences of a Loss of Coolant Accident
Authors: Keresztúri A. , Brolly Á. , Panka I. , Pázmándi T. , Trosztel I.
Published: September 2017

For calculation of the radiological consequences of Large Break Loss of Coolant (LBLOCA) events, a set of various computer codes modeling the corresponding physical processes, disciplines and their appropriate subsequent data exchange are necessary. For demonstrating the methodology applied in MTA EK, a LBLOCA event at shut down reactor state – when only limited configuration of the Emergency Core Cooling System (ECCS) is available – was selected. In this special case, fission gas release from a number of fuel pins is obtained from the analyses. This paper describes the initiating event and the corresponding thermal hydraulic calculations and the further physical processes, the necessary models and computer codes and their connections. Additionally the applied conservative assumptions and the Best Estimate Plus Uncertainty (B+U) evaluation applied for characterizing the pin power and burnup distribution in the core are presented. Also, the fuel behavior processes. Finally, the newly developed methodology to predict whether the fuel pins are getting in-hermetic or not is described and the the results of the activity transport and dose calculations are shown.
ANDREA 2.2 and 2.3 – Advances in modelling of VVER cores
Authors: Havluj F. , Hejzlar J. , Vocka R. , Vysoudil J.
Published: September 2017

In 2016 a new version of code ANDREA for core design and reload safety analysis of VVER reactors has been released. The new code version includes several major improvements. The first of them is a seamless incorporation of short time kinetics calculations (without temperature feedback) into the code. This new feature accompanied by the possibility of excore detector signal predictions enables precise interpretation of dynamic measurements of control assembly weight during the reactor startup. Second important enhancement resides in new flexible format of cross section libraries and in new fuel temperature model based on results of TRANSURANUS fuel performance code. The new code version has been thoroughly tested and validated for both VVER440 and VVER-1000 reactors. Furthermore for the new version 2.3 which is to be released shortly we have implemented the possibility of fluent control assemblies’ motion and of non-equidistant axial nodalization schemes in VVER-440 calculations.
Electron backscatter diffraction-analysis of deformed micro-milled commercially pure-titanium specimens at different strain values
Authors: Godard Claudia , Klement Uta , Kerscher Eberhard
Published: September 2017

The surface structuring process micro-milling introduces small grooves, which act as geometrical notches and influence the mechanical properties of the component, into the surface. The mechanical behaviour depends on the relation of the notch size to the grain size. Micro-milling processes were applied to improve the functional properties of component surfaces. They are used in mechanically loaded environments as well as in biotechnological applications. Therefore, commercially-pure-titanium is a favoured material of investigation. To determine the effect of the notches, a detailed analysis of the deformation behaviour of the structured material is indispensable. In the present work, structured specimens were tested under quasi-static loading. The testing was interrupted at different strain values. The micro-sections of the specimens were characterized by means of electron backscatter diffraction analysis to obtain information about the first indication of plastic deformation and the development of the deformation features. The results show inhomogeneous deformation behaviour of the material. The deformation mechanisms, the development of small angle and high angle grain boundaries as well as twinning are shown.
Effects of magnetic energy on microstructural evolution during peritectic solidification in ferromagnetic alloy investigated by phase-field simulation
Authors: Feng Zikang , Wang Gang , Wu Xuehua , Hong Yuan , Zeng Dechang
Published: September 2017

A modified phase-field model was proposed for the incorporation of magnetic energy contributions in the ferromagnetic alloys including Zeeman energy, magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy and demagnetizing field energy. To verify the accuracy of this model, the Mn–Bi system was taken as an example, and the effects of different magnetic energy contributions on the microstructural evolution during the non-equilibrium peritectic reaction (Liquid + Mn1.08Bi → MnBi) were investigated. The simulation results demonstrated that the formation of ferromagnetic MnBi was promoted by the introduction of the Zeeman energy, and the magnetic moments of the MnBi phase tended to align along the orientation of the easy axis due to the effect of magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy. It was also indicated that the MnBi grain would be elongated along the direction of the external magnetic field when the demagnetizing field is considered.
Magnesium nanocomposites reinforced with a high volume fraction of SiC particulates
Authors: Liu Jinling , Suryanarayana C. , Zhang Min , Wang Yiguang , Yang Fuqian , An Linan
Published: September 2017

The microstructure and indentation behavior of magnesium nanocomposites containing a high volume fraction (up to 15 vol.%) of nanometer-sized SiC was studied using X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and microindentation techniques. The indentation hardness and contact stiffness were found to increase with increasing volume fraction of the nanometer-sized SiC particles up to 10 vol.%. The magnesium nanocomposites with 15 vol.% SiC had a lower indentation hardness than that of 10 vol.% SiC. The strain rate sensitivity exponent of the Mg–SiC nanocomposites increased with increasing volume fraction of SiC. The decrease of the indentation hardness suggested that the deformation mechanism of the magnesium nanocomposites was likely altered when the critical volume percent of SiC nanoparticles was achieved, estimated at 10 vol.%.
Cavernous sinus compartments from the endoscopic endonasal approach: anatomical considerations and surgical relevance to adenoma surgery
Authors: Fernandez-Miranda Juan C. , Zwagerman Nathan T. , Abhinav Kumar , Lieber Stefan , Wang Eric W. , Snyderman Carl H. , Gardner Paul A.
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE

Tumors with cavernous sinus (CS) invasion represent a neurosurgical challenge. Increasing application of the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) requires a thorough understanding of the CS anatomy from an endonasal perspective. In this study, the authors aimed to develop a surgical anatomy–based classification of the CS and establish its utility for preoperative surgical planning and intraoperative guidance in adenoma surgery.

METHODS

Twenty-five colored silicon–injected human head specimens were used for endonasal and transcranial dissections of the CS. Pre- and postoperative MRI studies of 98 patients with pituitary adenoma with intraoperatively confirmed CS invasion were analyzed.

RESULTS

Four CS compartments are described based on their spatial relationship with the cavernous ICA: superior, posterior, inferior, and lateral. Each compartment has distinct boundaries and dural and neurovascular relationships: the superior compartment relates to the interclinoidal ligament and oculomotor nerve, the posterior compartment bears the gulfar segment of the abducens nerve and inferior hypophyseal artery, the inferior compartment contains the sympathetic nerve and distal cavernous abducens nerve, and the lateral compartment includes all cavernous cranial nerves and the inferolateral arterial trunk. Twenty-nine patients had a single compartment invaded, and 69 had multiple compartments involved. The most commonly invaded compartment was the superior (79 patients), followed by the posterior (n = 64), inferior (n = 45), and lateral (n = 23) compartments. Residual tumor rates by compartment were 79% in lateral, 17% in posterior, 14% in superior, and 11% in inferior.

CONCLUSIONS

The anatomy-based classification presented here complements current imaging-based classifications and may help to identify involved compartments both preoperatively and intraoperatively.
Anatomy and white matter connections of the orbitofrontal gyrus
Authors: Burks Joshua D. , Conner Andrew K. , Bonney Phillip A. , Glenn Chad A. , Baker Cordell M. , Boettcher Lillian B. , Briggs Robert G. , O’Donoghue Daniel L. , Wu Dee H. , Sughrue Michael E.
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE

The orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) is understood to have a role in outcome evaluation and risk assessment and is commonly involved with infiltrative tumors. A detailed understanding of the exact location and nature of associated white matter tracts could significantly improve postoperative morbidity related to declining capacity. Through diffusion tensor imaging–based fiber tracking validated by gross anatomical dissection as ground truth, the authors have characterized these connections based on relationships to other well-known structures.

METHODS

Diffusion imaging from the Human Connectome Project for 10 healthy adult controls was used for tractography analysis. The OFC was evaluated as a whole based on connectivity with other regions. All OFC tracts were mapped in both hemispheres, and a lateralization index was calculated with resultant tract volumes. Ten postmortem dissections were then performed using a modified Klingler technique to demonstrate the location of major tracts.

RESULTS

The authors identified 3 major connections of the OFC: a bundle to the thalamus and anterior cingulate gyrus, passing inferior to the caudate and medial to the vertical fibers of the thalamic projections; a bundle to the brainstem, traveling lateral to the caudate and medial to the internal capsule; and radiations to the parietal and occipital lobes traveling with the inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus.

CONCLUSIONS

The OFC is an important center for processing visual, spatial, and emotional information. Subtle differences in executive functioning following surgery for frontal lobe tumors may be better understood in the context of the fiber-bundle anatomy highlighted by this study.
Delayed facial palsy after microvascular decompression for hemifacial spasm: friend or foe?
Authors: Lee Jae Meen , Park Hye Ran , Choi Young Doo , Kim Sung Min , Jeon Beomseok , Kim Han-Joon , Kim Dong Gyu , Paek Sun Ha
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE

The authors investigated the incidence, clinical course, and predisposing factors associated with delayed facial palsy (DFP) following microvascular decompression (MVD).

METHODS

The authors reviewed the records of 310 patients (311 cases) who were followed after MVD for hemifacial spasm (HFS). Of these patients, 45 (14.5%) developed DFP after MVD. The clinical characteristics and predisposing factors of the patients with HFS were investigated to identify prognostic factors that predicted the development of DFP after MVD. Log-rank tests were used to compare times to symptom disappearance, and a logistic regression analysis was performed to compare clinical characteristics between patients who developed DFP and those who did not.

RESULTS

HFS was completely resolved immediately after MVD in 158 cases (50.8%), and HFS eventually disappeared in 289 (92.9%) of the cases. Of the 45 patients with DFP, 17 were men and 28 were women. DFP occurred between postoperative Days 1 and 44 (mean 9.67 days). Finally, 44 patients (97.8%) completely recovered. The average time to recovery was 3.9 months (range 1–24 months). Patients who had experienced an immediate disappearance of HFS experienced a significantly higher occurrence of DFP than those who did not (odds ratio 0.383, 95% confidence interval 0.183–0.802; p = 0.011). In addition, preoperative botulinum neurotoxin injections negatively influenced the occurrence of DFP (p = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, the incidence rate of DFP was slightly higher than previously reported values. Moreover, DFP can occur even when spasms disappear immediately after MVD, but the patients with DFP can fully recover within weeks.
Novel insights into symptomatology of moyamoya disease in pediatric patients: survey of symptoms suggestive of orthostatic intolerance
Authors: Uchino Haruto , Kazumata Ken , Ito Masaki , Nakayama Naoki , Houkin Kiyohiro
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE

A specific population of young patients with moyamoya disease (MMD) persistently experience physical symptoms not attributable to focal ischemia. These symptoms, highly suggestive of orthostatic intolerance (also termed “orthostatic dysregulation”), were investigated and reported as potential determinants of quality of life in young MMD patients.

METHODS

Forty-six patients (6–30 years of age) were selected from a group of 122 patients who were diagnosed with MMD before 18 years of age. The authors administered a structured questionnaire consisting of 11 items based on screening checklists published in the Japanese clinical guidelines for juvenile orthostatic dysregulation in young patients. The results were tabulated, and correlations with clinical data were explored.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven (80%) patients (mean age 15.9 years) responded to the questionnaire. Frequent headache, vertigo/dizziness on standing, fatigue, difficulty with getting out of bed, and motion sickness were the top 5 symptoms, resulting in 57% of patients being unable to attend school. Forty-three percent of the patients demonstrated multiple symptoms suggestive of orthostatic intolerance, even as long as 5 years after revascularization surgery. The number of symptoms was inversely associated with the number of years after surgery (p = 0.028). The number of symptoms was not associated with a history of surgery, clinical presentations, vascular involvement, cerebral perfusion, brain lesions, or history of transient ischemic attacks.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study provided novel insight into the symptomatology of young patients with MMD. Failure to notice nonfocal physical symptoms can significantly impair quality of life in young patients with MMD even years after successful revascularization surgery. These symptoms may serve as independent clinical markers used to assess disease outcome, although the underlying mechanisms of this disease are, as of yet, unclear.
Pneumoencephalography in the workup of neuropsychiatric illnesses: a historical perspective
Authors: Ishaque Mariam , Wallace David J. , Grandhi Ramesh
Published: September 2017

Throughout history, neurosurgical procedures have been fundamental in advancing neuroscience; however, this has not always been without deleterious side effects or harmful consequences. While critical to the progression of clinical neuroscience during the early 20th century, yet, at the same time, poorly tolerated by patients, pneumoencephalography is one such procedure that exemplifies this juxtaposition. Presented herein are historical perspectives and reflections on the role of the pneumoencephalography in the diagnosis and treatment of neuropsychiatric illnesses.
A brief note on the history of psychosurgery in Japan
Authors: Nudeshima Jiro , Taira Takaomi
Published: September 2017

In Japan, there has been no neurosurgical treatment for psychiatric disorders since the 1970s. Even deep brain stimulation (DBS) has not been studied or used for psychiatric disorders. Neurosurgery for psychiatric disorders has been thwarted by social taboos for many years, and psychiatrists today seem to simply ignore modern developments and therapies offered by neurosurgery such as DBS. As a result, most patients and their families do not know such “last-resort” options exist.

Historically, as in other countries, frontal lobotomies were widely performed in Japan in the 1940s and 1950s, and some Japanese neurosurgeons used stereotactic methods for the treatment of psychiatric disorders until the 1960s. However, in the 1960s and 1970s such surgical treatments began to receive condemnation based on political judgment, rather than on medical and scientific evaluation. Protest campaigns at the time hinged on the prevailing political beliefs, forming a part of the new “left” movement against leading authorities across a wide range of societal institutions including medical schools. Finally, the Japanese Society for Psychiatry and Neurology banned the surgical treatment for psychiatric disorders in 1975. Even today, Japan’s dark history continues to exert an enormous negative influence on neurosurgery for psychiatric disorders.
Development of a single-session assessment protocol for isokinetic testing of the hamstrings/quadriceps strength ratio
Authors: Lafrance Simon , Hsu Jimmy , Caspin Laura , Yee Bennett , Robbins Shawn , Preuss Richard
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND:

The ratio of hamstring to quadriceps strength (H/Q), from isokinetic testing, is often used to guide training or rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVES:

The primary objective was to develop an assessment protocol that produces reproducible H/Q data in a single testing session.

METHODS:

Twenty-four healthy subjects, 16 women and 8 men, were tested using a reliability study design (2 sessions, 5 repetitions). The main outcome measure was the dynamic control ratio at 60[Formula: see text]/s (DCR60). Testing was also done at 120[Formula: see text]/s, and concentrically at 180[Formula: see text]/s. Generalizability theory was used to determine the reliability ([Formula: see text]) coefficient and the minimal detectable change MDC, and to extrapolate the data to develop an optimal assessment protocol, ideally using data from only one session.

RESULTS:

Single-session DCR60 data were reproducible ([Formula: see text] coefficient [Formula: see text] 0.868, MDC95 [Formula: see text] 0.144) using 5 repetitions, excluding the first repetition from the average. Values were improved by averaging over multiple sessions and repetitions, although little was gained from more than 2 sessions or 5 repetitions. Comparable results were found for testing at 120[Formula: see text]/s.

CONCLUSIONS:

Reproducible DCR60 values may be derived from a single testing session of the hamstrings (in eccentric mode) and the quadriceps (in concentric mode). We recommend collecting five repetitions, and averaging the data for repetitions 2–5.
Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Giil Lasse Melvaer , Midttun Øivind , Refsum Helga , Ulvik Arve , Advani Rajiv , Smith A. David , Ueland Per Magne
Published: September 2017

Background:

Metabolites of tryptophan, produced via the kynurenine pathway (kynurenines), have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in small cohorts with conflicting results.

Objective:

To compare differences in plasma kynurenine levels between AD and controls and identify potential associations with cognition.

Methods:

The study included 65 histopathologically-confirmed AD patients and 65 cognitively-screened controls from the Oxford Project to Investigate Memory and Ageing (OPTIMA) cohort. Cognition was assessed using the Cambridge Cognitive Examination (CamCog). Tryptophan, kynurenines, neopterin, and vitamin B6 forms were measured in plasma by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Non-parametric statistics, logistic regression and standardized robust regressions were applied with a false discovery rate of 0.05.

Results:

Tryptophan, xanthurenic acid, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, and quinolinic acid were lower in AD (Odds ratios (ORs) 0.24 –0.47; p-values <0.001 –0.01). Pyridoxal 5’phosphate did not differ between AD and controls. Kynurenine, anthranilic acid, quinolinic acid, and markers of immune activation (neopterin, kynurenine/tryptophan ratio, and the PAr index (Pyridoxic acid/(Pyridoxal 5’phosphate + Pyridoxal)) increased with age (β 0.31 –0.51; p-values <0.001 –0.006). Xanthurenic acid decreased with age (β: –0.42, p < 0.001). Elderly AD patients with high quinolinic acid performed worse on the CamCog test, indicated by a significant age*quinolinic acid interaction (β 0.21, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Plasma concentrations of several kynurenines were lower in patients with AD compared to controls. Low xanthurenic acid occurred in both AD and with aging. Inflammation-related markers were associated with age, but not AD. However, elevated QA was associated with poor cognition in older AD patients.
Performance evaluation of a permanent magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance machine with hybrid magnets of ferrite magnets and rare-earth PMs
Authors: Liu Xiping , Li Ya , Liu Zhangqi , Zhang Zhixuan
Published: September 2017

In this paper, a novel permanent magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance machine (PMASynRM) with rare-earth PMs and ferrite magnets is proposed. The performance of PMASynRM is discussed with respected to the different magnet ratio of rare-earth PMs and ferrite magnets. Some characteristics including the flux density, output torque, cogging torque, output power, power factor, torque ripple, loss, efficiency, and demagnetization are calculated by 2-D finite element analysis (FEA). The analysis results show that the excellent performance can be obtained by using hybrid magnet of rare-earth PMs and ferrite magnets with the suitable magnet ratio, and provide some desirable cost-performance trade-off.
Fabrication of Epoxide Functional Hydrophobic Composite Polymer Particles by Suspension Polymerization and Subsequent Doping with Fe3O4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Shabnam R. , Rahman M. A. , Miah M. A. J. , Sharafat M. K. , Islam H. M. T. , Rahman M. M. , Gafur M. A. , Ahmad H.
Published: September 2017

This investigation described a simple three-step process for the fabrication of micrometer-sized magnetic composite polymer particles. This composite polymer particle consisted of crosslinked hydrophobic poly(lauryl methacrylate-divinyl benzene) (P(LMA-DVB)) core, prepared by suspension polymerization. Then, P(LMA-DVB) copolymer core particles were coated with poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) by seeded polymerization to introduce epoxide functionality. Finally, P(LMA-DVB)/PGMA composite particles were doped with iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles following in situ co-precipitation of Fe2+ and Fe3+ from their alkali aqueous solution. The presence of strained oxirane ring derived from PGMA segment present at the surface is expected to induce high affinity towards precipitated magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The compositional structure of P(LMA-DVB)/PGMA/Fe3O4 composite polymer particles was confirmed by Fourier Transform IR (FTIR), electron microscopy, thermogravimetry (TG), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX).
Number of roles and well-being among older adults in the Czech Republic
Authors: Hubatková Barbora
Published: September 2017

This article aims to analyze the relationship between number of roles, stress, and overall well-being among 50- to 70-year-olds in the Czech Republic and to assess whether this link can be at least partially attributed to other role-related factors, namely individual role types, role overload, and role strain. Using OLS regression, the number of roles was found to be positively related to both stress and overall well-being. The link between multiple roles and well-being among elderly Czechs was mostly irreducible to other role-related factors. However, some of the positive association between number of roles and stress was likely due to occupying a worker role, experiencing role overload and experiencing one role as particularly concerning or difficult, while some of the positive association between multiple roles and overall well-being was partially attributable to occupying grandparental and “active ager” roles.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Dogs Admitted into Queensland RSPCA Shelters
Authors: Hemy Megan , Rand Jacquie , Morton John , Paterson Mandy
Published: September 2017

Over 200,000 stray and surrendered dogs are admitted to shelters and municipal facilities in Australia each year, and approximately 20% are euthanized. Contemporary, comprehensive data on the characteristics and outcomes of dogs entering shelters are required to reduce shelter admissions and euthanasia. However, there are currently limited up-to-date data published on dog admission into shelters. A retrospective single cohort study was conducted to describe the characteristics and outcomes of the dog population entering Royal Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Queensland (RSPCA-QLD) shelters in 2014 (n = 11,967). The majority of dog admissions were strays from the public (24%) or from municipal councils (34%). Just over a quarter of admissions were puppies, 18% of adults (>6 months) were desexed, and the majority of admissions were crossbred dogs (92%). The majority of owner surrenders (86%) were due to human-related reasons. Most dogs were reclaimed (32%) or adopted (43%) and aggression was the most common reason for euthanasia of adult dogs (45%). Low-cost or free desexing and identification programs targeted to areas and breeds contributing to high intake, and increased support services for owners at risk of surrendering their dog, should be trialed to determine their cost effectiveness in reducing shelter admissions and euthanasia.
A Dispersive Inelastic X-ray Scattering Spectrometer for Use at X-ray Free Electron Lasers
Authors: Szlachetko Jakub , Nachtegaal Maarten , Grolimund Daniel , Knopp Gregor , Peredkov Sergey , Czapla–Masztafiak Joanna , Milne Christopher
Published: September 2017

We report on the application of a short working distance von Hamos geometry spectrometer to measure the inelastic X-ray scattering (IXS) signals from solids and liquids. In contrast to typical IXS instruments where the spectrometer geometry is fixed and the incoming beam energy is scanned, the von Hamos geometry allows measurements to be made using a fixed optical arrangement with no moving parts. Thanks to the shot-to-shot capability of the spectrometer setup, we anticipate its application for the IXS technique at X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs). We discuss the capability of the spectrometer setup for IXS studies in terms of efficiency and required total incident photon flux for a given signal-to-noise ratio. The ultimate energy resolution of the spectrometer, which is a key parameter for IXS studies, was measured to the level of 150 meV at short crystal radius thanks to the application of segmented crystals for X-ray diffraction. The short working distance is a key parameter for spectrometer efficiency that is necessary to measure weak IXS signals.
The Beneficial Sinergy of MW Irradiation and Ionic Liquids in Catalysis of Organic Reactions
Authors: Floris Barbara , Sabuzi Federica , Galloni Pierluca , Conte Valeria
Published: September 2017

The quest for sustainable processes is becoming more and more important, with catalysis playing a major role in improving atom economy and reducing waste. Organic syntheses with less need of protecting/de-protecting steps are highly desirable. The combination of microwave irradiation, as energy source, with ionic liquids, as both solvents and catalysts, offered interesting solutions in recent years. The literature data of the last 15 years concerning selected reactions are presented, highlighting the importance of microwave (MW) technology coupled with ionic liquids.
Tri- and Mono-Nuclear Zinc(II) Complexes Based on Half- and Mono-Salamo Chelating Ligands
Authors: Dong Xiu-Yan , Gao Lei , Wang Fei , Zhang Yang , Dong Wen-Kui
Published: September 2017

Two newly designed complexes, [Zn(L1)(EtOH)] (1) and [{Zn(L2)(OAc)2}2Zn]·CHCl3 (2) derived from salamo and half-salamo chelating ligands (H2L1 and HL2) have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, IR and UV-VIS spectra, fluorescence spectra, and X-ray crystallography. Complex 1 shows a slightly distorted tetragonal pyramid and forms an infinite 3D supramolecular structure. All of the Zn(II) ions in complex 2 are hexa-coordinated with slightly distorted octahedral geometries. Complex 2 possesses an infinite 2D space structure. The fluorescence titration experiments were used to characterize fluorescence properties of complexes 1 and 2. And the normalized fluorescent spectra exhibit that complexes 1 and 2 have favourable fluorescent emissions in different solvents.
Fractional Derivative Phenomenology of Percolative Phonon-Assisted Hopping in Two-Dimensional Disordered Systems
Authors: Sibatov Renat , Shulezhko Vadim , Svetukhin Vyacheslav
Published: September 2017

Anomalous advection-diffusion in two-dimensional semiconductor systems with coexisting energetic and structural disorder is described in the framework of a generalized model of multiple trapping on a comb-like structure. The basic equations of the model contain fractional-order derivatives. To validate the model, we compare analytical solutions with results of a Monte Carlo simulation of phonon-assisted tunneling in two-dimensional patterns of a porous nanoparticle agglomerate and a phase-separated bulk heterojunction. To elucidate the role of directed percolation, we calculate transient current curves of the time-of-flight experiment and the evolution of the mean squared displacement averaged over medium realizations. The variations of the anomalous advection-diffusion parameters as functions of electric field intensity, levels of energetic, and structural disorder are presented.
Safety Analysis of Grounding Resistance with Depth of Water for Floating PVs
Authors: Ko Jae , Cha Hae , Kim David , Lim Jong , Kim Gyu , Bhang Byeong , Won Chang , Jung Han , Kang Dong , Ahn Hyung
Published: September 2017

Underwater grounding methods could be applied in deep water for grounding a floating PV (photovoltaic) system. However, the depth at which the electrodes should be located is a controversial subject. In this study, grounding resistance was measured for the first time by analyzing the water temperature at different water depths in an area where a floating PV system is installed. The theoretical calculation of the grounding resistance has a maximum error range of 8% compared to the experimentally measured data. In order to meet the electrical safety standards of a floating PV system, a number of electrodes were connected in parallel. In addition, the distance between electrodes and number of electrodes were considered in the test to obtain a formula for the grounding resistance. In addition, the coefficient of corrosion was obtained from an electrode installed underwater a year ago, and it was added to the formula. Through this analysis, it is possible to predict the grounding resistance prior to installing the floating PV system. Furthermore, the electrical safety of the floating PV system could be achieved by considering the seasonal changes in water temperature.
A New State of Charge Estimation Algorithm for Lithium-Ion Batteries Based on the Fractional Unscented Kalman Filter
Authors: Chen Yixing , Huang Deqing , Zhu Qiao , Liu Weiqun , Liu Congzhi , Xiong Neng
Published: September 2017

An accurate state of charge (SOC) estimation is the basis of the Battery Management System (BMS). In this paper, a new estimation method which considers fractional calculus is proposed to estimate the lithium battery state of charge. Firstly, a modified second-order RC model based on fractional calculus theory is developed to model the lithium battery characteristics. After that, a pulse characterization test is implemented to obtain the battery terminal voltage and current, in which the parameter identification is completed based on least square method. Furthermore, the proposed method based on Fractional Unscented Kalman Filter (FUKF) algorithm is applied to estimate the battery state of charge value in both static and dynamic battery discharging experiment. The experimental results have demonstrated that the proposed method shows high accuracy and efficiency for state of charge estimation and the fractional calculus contributes to the battery state of charge estimation.
Cost Projection of State of the Art Lithium-Ion Batteries for Electric Vehicles Up to 2030
Authors: Berckmans Gert , Messagie Maarten , Smekens Jelle , Omar Noshin , Vanhaverbeke Lieselot , Van Mierlo Joeri
Published: September 2017

The negative impact of the automotive industry on climate change can be tackled by changing from fossil driven vehicles towards battery electric vehicles with no tailpipe emissions. However their adoption mainly depends on the willingness to pay for the extra cost of the traction battery. The goal of this paper is to predict the cost of a battery pack in 2030 when considering two aspects: firstly a decade of research will ensure an improvement in material sciences altering a battery’s chemical composition. Secondly by considering the price erosion due to the production cost optimization, by maturing of the market and by evolving towards to a mass-manufacturing situation. The cost of a lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC) battery (Cathode: NMC 6:2:2 ; Anode: graphite) as well as silicon based lithium-ion battery (Cathode: NMC 6:2:2 ; Anode: silicon alloy), expected to be on the market in 10 years, will be predicted to tackle the first aspect. The second aspect will be considered by combining process-based cost calculations with learning curves, which takes the increasing battery market into account. The 100 dollar/kWh sales barrier will be reached respectively between 2020-2025 for silicon based lithium-ion batteries and 2025–2030 for NMC batteries, which will give a boost to global electric vehicle adoption.
Encapsulated Nitrates Phase Change Material Selection for Use as Thermal Storage and Heat Transfer Materials at High Temperature in Concentrated Solar Power Plants
Authors: Cáceres Gustavo , Fullenkamp Karina , Montané Macarena , Naplocha Krzysztof , Dmitruk Anna
Published: September 2017

In the present paper, the finite element method is used to perform an exhaustive analysis of the thermal behavior of encapsulated phase change materials (EPCMs), which includes an assessment of several materials in order to identify the best combination of PCM and shell material in terms of thermal energy storage, heat transfer rate, cost of materials, limit of pressure that they can support and other criteria. It is possible to enhance the heat transfer rate without a considerable decrease of the thermal energy storage density, by increasing the thickness of the shell. In the first examination of thermomechanical coupling effects, the technical feasibility can be determined if the EPCM dimensions are designed considering the thermal expansion and the tensile strength limit of the materials. Moreover, when a proper EPCM shell material and PCM composition is used, and compared with the current storage methods of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, the use of EPCM allows one to enhance significantly the thermal storage, reaching more than 1.25 GJ/m3 of energy density.
Effects of Cycle Length and Plot Density on Estimators for a National-Scale Forest Monitoring Sample Design
Authors: Roesch Francis , Schroeder Todd , Vogt James
Published: September 2017

The resilience of a National Forest Inventory and Monitoring sample design can sometimes depend upon the degree to which it can adapt to fluctuations in funding. If a budget reduction necessitates the observation of fewer plots per year, some practitioners weigh the problem as a tradeoff between reducing the total number of plots and measuring the original number of plots over a greater number of years. Here, we explore some of the effects of differing plot intensities and cycle lengths on variants of three general classes of estimators for annual cubic meter per hectare volume, using a simulated population and appropriately-graduated sampling simulations. The simulations showed that an increase in cycle length yielded quite dramatic effects while differences due to a simulated reduction in plot intensity had more subtle effects.
Hybrid Woven Glass Fibre Fabric-Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube-Epoxy Composites Under Low Rate Impact
Authors: Sadykov Daniyar , Nouicer Lhadi , Lekakou Constantina
Published: September 2017

This research work addresses the issue of developing light composite materials with increased ability for impact energy absorption. Novel, hybrid plain woven glass fibre fabric-epoxy laminates with multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT) interlayers were fabricated in this study so that (a) only a few MWNT interlayers were placed close to the face of the laminate to be subjected to impact and (b) the interlayers were fabricated via innovative wide-line electrospinning of MWNT/epoxy/solvent solutions, depositing a mixture of aligned fibres and spray on the woven glass fibre fabrics; the laminate was then fabricated via resin transfer moulding (RTM). Hybrid nano-micro-composite laminates with 0.15 wt% MWNT were prepared with this method and were subjected to single low rate impact tests. It was found that the optimised hybrid laminates had 22% greater total penetration energy translated to 15% weight reduction in the laminate armour for an equivalent amount of energy penetration.
Personalized Computational Models as Biomarkers
Authors: Kolch Walter , Fey Dirk
Published: September 2017

Biomarkers are cornerstones of clinical medicine, and personalized medicine, in particular, is highly dependent on reliable and highly accurate biomarkers for individualized diagnosis and treatment choice. Modern omics technologies, such as genome sequencing, allow molecular profiling of individual patients with unprecedented resolution, but biomarkers based on these technologies often lack the dynamic element to follow the progression of a disease or response to therapy. Here, we discuss computational models as a new conceptual approach to biomarker discovery and design. Being able to integrate a large amount of information, including dynamic information, computational models can simulate disease evolution and response to therapy with high sensitivity and specificity. By populating these models with personal data, they can be highly individualized and will provide a powerful new tool in the armory of personalized medicine.