bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide aggravates inherited retinal dystrophy
Authors: Noailles Agustina , Maneu Victoria , Campello Laura , Lax Pedro , Cuenca Nicolás
Published: March 2018

Retinal neurodegenerative diseases involve a scenario of inflammation and cell death that leads to morphological alterations and visual impairment. Non-ocular inflammatory processes could affect neurodegenerative retinal disorders and their progression, at least in part by activating microglial cells and releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Our purpose was to study the consequences of a systemic inflammatory process in the progression of retinal degeneration in P23H rats, a retinitis pigmentosa (RP) model. In order to induce a mild chronic systemic inflammation, we administered low doses of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from age P20 to P60 to dystrophic P23H rats and healthy SD rats. Visual responsiveness was assessed by electroretinography (ERG). The morphological state of the retinas was analyzed by fluorescent immunohistochemistry (IHC), evaluating the number, morphology, and connectivity of different neuronal populations by means of cell type-specific markers. Microglia density, distribution, and degree of activation were evaluated by IHC and flow cytometry. The expression levels of inflammation- and apoptosis-related genes were analyzed by qRT-PCR arrays. Low-dose LPS administration did not induce significant functional or morphological changes in the retina of SD rats, although at the molecular level, we detected expression changes in genes related to apoptosis. Otherwise, systemic injection of LPS into P23H rats induced a further deterioration in the ERG response, with greater loss of photoreceptors and worsening of synaptic connectivity, accompanied by increasing numbers of microglial cells, which also showed a more intense activation state. Several inflammation- and apoptosis-related genes were upregulated. Our results indicate that chronic exacerbation of the inflammatory response in response to LPS accelerates neurodegeneration in dystrophic P23H rats, suggesting that in patients with ocular neurodegenerative diseases, peripheral damage, as a systemic infection or chronic inflammatory process, could accelerate disease progression, and should be taken into account in order to select an appropriate therapy to revert, block or slow-down the degenerative process.
Assisted delivery of antisense therapeutics in animal models of heritable neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: van der Bent M. Leontien , Paulino da Silva Filho Omar , van Luijk Judith , Brock Roland , Wansink Derick G.
Published: March 2018

Antisense oligonucleotide (AON)-based therapies hold promise for a range of neurodegenerative and neuromuscular diseases and have shown benefit in animal models and patients. Success in the clinic is nevertheless still limited, due to unfavourable biodistribution and poor cellular uptake of AONs. Extensive research is currently being conducted into the formulation of AONs to improve delivery, but thus far there is no consensus on which of those strategies will be the most effective. This systematic review was designed to answer in an unbiased manner which delivery strategies most strongly enhance the efficacy of AONs in animal models of heritable neurodegenerative and neuromuscular diseases. In total, 95 primary studies met the predefined inclusion criteria. Study characteristics and data on biodistribution and toxicity were extracted and reporting quality and risk of bias were assessed. Twenty studies were eligible for meta-analysis. We found that even though the use of delivery systems provides an advantage over naked AONs, it is not yet possible to select the most promising strategies. Importantly, standardisation of experimental procedures is warranted in order to reach conclusions about the most efficient delivery strategies. Our best practice guidelines for future experiments serve as a step in that direction.
Effects of low molecular weight heparin on the polarization and cytokine profile of macrophages and T helper cells in vitro
Authors: Bruno Valentina , Svensson-Arvelund Judit , Rubér Marie , Berg Göran , Piccione Emilio , Jenmalm Maria C. , Ernerudh Jan
Published: March 2018

Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is widely used in recurrent miscarriage treatment. The anti-coagulant effects are established, while immunological effects are not fully known. Our aim was to assess LMWH effects on activation and polarization of central regulatory immune cells from healthy women, and on placenta tissues from women undergoing elective abortions. Isolated blood monocytes and T helper (Th) cells under different activation and polarizing conditions were cultured with or without LMWH. Flow cytometry showed that LMWH exposure induced increased expression of HLA-DR and CD206 in macrophages. This phenotype was associated with increased secretion of Th17-associated CCL20, and decreased secretion of CCL2 (M2-associated) and CCL22 (Th2), as measured by multiplex bead array. In accordance, LMWH exposure to Th cells reduced the proportion of CD25highFoxp3+ regulatory T-cells, intensified IFN-γ secretion and showed a tendency to increase the lymphoblast proportions. Collectively, a mainly pro-inflammatory effect was noted on two essential tolerance-promoting cells. Although the biological significancies of these in vitro findings are uncertain and need to be confirmed in vivo, they suggest the possibility that immunological effects of LMWH may be beneficial mainly at an earlier gestational age to provide an appropriate implantation process in women with recurrent miscarriage.
Single molecule real time sequencing in ADTKD-MUC1 allows complete assembly of the VNTR and exact positioning of causative mutations
Authors: Wenzel Andrea , Altmueller Janine , Ekici Arif B. , Popp Bernt , Stueber Kurt , Thiele Holger , Pannes Alois , Staubach Simon , Salido Eduardo , Nuernberg Peter , Reinhardt Richard , Reis André , Rump Patrick , Hanisch Franz-Georg , Wolf Matthias T. F. , Wiesener Michael , Huettel Bruno , Beck Bodo B.
Published: March 2018

Recently, the Mucin-1 (MUC1) gene has been identified as a causal gene of autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease (ADTKD). Most causative mutations are buried within a GC-rich 60 basepair variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR), which escapes identification by massive parallel sequencing methods due to the complexity of the VNTR. We established long read single molecule real time sequencing (SMRT) targeted to the MUC1-VNTR as an alternative strategy to the snapshot assay. Our approach allows complete VNTR assembly, thereby enabling the detection of all variants residing within the VNTR and simultaneous determination of VNTR length. We present high resolution data on the VNTR architecture for a cohort of snapshot positive (n = 9) and negative (n = 7) ADTKD families. By SMRT sequencing we could confirm the diagnosis in all previously tested cases, reconstruct both VNTR alleles and determine the exact position of the causative variant in eight of nine families. This study demonstrates that precise positioning of the causative mutation(s) and identification of other coding and noncoding sequence variants in ADTKD-MUC1 is feasible. SMRT sequencing could provide a powerful tool to uncover potential factors encoded within the VNTR that associate with intra- and interfamilial phenotype variability of MUC1 related kidney disease.
Cabozantinib Affects Osteosarcoma Growth Through A Direct Effect On Tumor Cells and Modifications In Bone Microenvironment
Authors: Fioramonti M. , Fausti V. , Pantano F. , Iuliani M. , Ribelli G. , Lotti F. , Pignochino Y. , Grignani G. , Santini D. , Tonini G. , Vincenzi B.
Published: March 2018

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant tumor of the bone. Due to its high heterogeneity and to survival signals from bone microenvironment, OS can resist to standard treatments, therefore novel therapies are needed. c-MET oncogene, a tyrosine-kinase receptor, plays a crucial role in OS initiation and progression. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of c-MET inhibitor cabozantinib (CBZ) on OS both directly and through its action on bone microenvironment. We tested different doses of CBZ in in vitro models of OS alone or in co-culture with bone cells in order to reproduce OS-tumor microenvironment interactions. CBZ is able to decrease proliferation and migration of OS cells, inhibiting ERK and AKT signaling pathways. Furthermore, CBZ leads to the inhibition of the proliferation of OS cells expressing receptor activator of nuclear factor κB (RANK), due to its effect on bone microenvironment, where it causes an overproduction of osteoprotegerin and a decrease of production of RANK ligand by osteoblasts. Overall, our data demonstrate that CBZ might represent a new potential treatment against OS, affecting both OS cells and their microenvironment. In this scenario, RANK expression in OS cells could represent a predictive factor of better response to CBZ treatment.
Comparative Proteomic Profiling and Biomarker Identification of Traditional Chinese Medicine-Based HIV/AIDS Syndromes
Authors: Wen Li , Liu Ye-Fang , Jiang Cen , Zeng Shao-Qian , Su Yue , Wu Wen-Jun , Liu Xi-Yang , Wang Jian , Liu Ying , Su Chen , Li Bai-Xue , Feng Quan-Sheng
Published: March 2018

Given the challenges in exploring lifelong therapy with little side effect for human immunodeficiency virus infection and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) cases, there is increasing interest in developing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatments based on specific TCM syndrome. However, there are few objective and biological evidences for classification and diagnosis of HIV/AIDS TCM syndromes to date. In this study, iTRAQ-2DLC-MS/MS coupled with bioinformatics were firstly employed for comparative proteomic profiling of top popular TCM syndromes of HIV/AIDS: accumulation of heat-toxicity (AHT) and Yang deficiency of spleen and kidney (YDSK). It was found that for the two TCM syndromes, the identified differential expressed proteins (DEPs) as well as their biological function distributions and participation in signaling pathways were significantly different, providing biological evidence for the classification of HIV/AIDS TCM syndromes. Furthermore, the TCM syndrome-specific DEPs were confirmed as biomarkers based on western blot analyses, including FN1, GPX3, KRT10 for AHT and RBP4, ApoE, KNG1 for YDSK. These biomarkers also biologically linked with the specific TCM syndrome closely. Thus the clinical and biological basis for differentiation and diagnosis of HIV/AIDs TCM syndromes were provided for the first time, providing more opportunities for stable exertion and better application of TCM efficacy and superiority in HIV/AIDS treatment.
A novel standardized deep sequencing-based assay for hepatitis C virus genotype determination
Authors: Rodriguez Christophe , Soulier Alexandre , Demontant Vanessa , Poiteau Lila , Mercier-Darty Mélanie , Bouvier-Alias Magali , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel , Chevaliez Stéphane
Published: March 2018

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype and subtype (1a/1b) identification is needed to tailor anti-HCV therapy. Currently available methods accurately identify the genotype and differentiate subtypes 1a from 1b. However, these assays have not been designed to identify other HCV subtypes, nor to recognize mixed genotype/subtype infections, emphasizing the need for a high-resolution system based on phylogenetic analysis of reads obtained by deep sequencing of a relevant genome region. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of the Sentosa SQ HCV Genotyping Assay, a novel deep sequencing-based assay targeting the HCV nonstructural 5B (NS5B) region, in clinical samples from patients with an indication for anti-HCV therapy. A high concordance rate with Sanger sequencing of the NS5B region, the reference method, was found for genotype 1 to 6 determination, 1a/1b subtype identification, and genotype 4, 5 and 6 subtyping. Discrepancies were seen essentially for HCV genotype 2 subtyping. Overall, the performance of the deep sequencing-based assay in generating the genotypes/subtype information needed to tailor anti-HCV treatment was adequate in this study. Further improvements, such as a longer NS5B fragment analyzed and enriching the database of reference prototype strains used for subtype assignment would make it a method of choice for HCV genotyping and subtyping for future clinical practice and research.
Low-temperature synthesis and investigation into the formation mechanism of high quality Ni-Fe layered double hydroxides hexagonal platelets
Authors: Jaśkaniec Sonia , Hobbs Christopher , Seral-Ascaso Andrés , Coelho João , Browne Michelle P. , Tyndall Daire , Sasaki Takayoshi , Nicolosi Valeria
Published: March 2018

This paper describes the wet-chemistry synthesis of highly crystalline hexagonal flakes of Ni-Fe layered double hydroxide (LDH) produced at temperature as low as 100 °C. The flakes with diameter in the range of 0.5–1.5 μm and the thickness between 15 and 20 nm were obtained by homogeneous precipitation method with the use of triethanolamine (TEA) and urea. By analyzing the intermediate products, it is suggested that, differently from previous reports, a thermodynamically metastable iron oxyhydroxide and Ni-TEA complex are firstly formed at room temperature. Subsequently, when the mixture is heated to 100 °C and the pH increases due to the thermal decomposition of urea, Ni2+and Fe3+are slowly released and then recombine, thus leading to formation of pure, highly-crystalline Ni-Fe LDH flakes. This material showed promising results as an electrocatalyst in oxygen evolution reaction (OER) providing an overpotential value of 0.36 V.
High-speed photon-counting laser ranging for broad range of distances
Authors: Du Bingcheng , Pang Chengkai , Wu Di , Li Zhaohui , Peng Huan , Tao Yuliang , Wu E. , Wu Guang
Published: March 2018

We demonstrate a high-speed photon-counting laser ranging system with laser pulses of multiple repetition rates to extend the unambiguous range. In the experiment, the laser pulses of three different repetition rates around 10 MHz were employed to enlarge the maximum unambiguous range from 15 m to 165 km. Moreover, the range of distances was increased as well, enabling the measurement on different targets of large separation distance with high depth resolution. An outdoor photon-counting laser ranging up to 21 km was realized with high repetition rate, which is beneficial for the airborne and satellite-based topographic mapping.
Ramachary’s Dienamines (Push–Pull Dienamines): In situ Generation and Applications
Authors: Anebouselvy Kengadarane , Ramachary Dhevalapally B.
Published: March 2018

Ramachary’s push–pull dienamines, prepared in situ from Hagemann’s esters, have participated efficiently in many cascade sequences, such as the Claisen–Schmidt condensation, enamine amination/isoaromatization (EA/IA), Claisen–Schmidt/isomerization, Claisen–Schmidt/Michael reactions, Claisen–Schmidt/Henry (CS/H) reactions and multi-catalysis cascade reactions. The synthesis of highly functionalized phenols, o-pyrrolidine-1-yldiarylamines, o-hydroxydiarylamines, (Z)-2-(buta-1,3-dienyl)phenols, 2-methyl-2H-chromenes, (E)-1,3-dienes, dienones, chromenone, benzoxazocines and terpenoid-type chiral decalines was accomplished through push–pull dienamine intermediates. Further, these were applied in the synthesis of medicinally important nefopam analogues. Highly functionalized NH-1,2,3-triazoles and 1,4,5-trisubstituted-1,2,3-triazoles were also accessed via [3+2]-cycloaddition. In addition, upon Michael addition with β-nitrostyrenes, push–pull dienamines produced Baylis–Hillman-type products.
CaRMeN: a tool for analysing and deriving kinetics in the real world
Authors: Gossler H. , Maier L. , Angeli S. , Tischer S. , Deutschmann O.
Published: March 2018

Open software that automates model vs. experiment comparisons to rapidly analyse and derive models, in particular chemical kinetics.
Metal–organic framework-based materials: superior adsorbents for the capture of toxic and radioactive metal ions
Authors: Li Jie , Wang Xiangxue , Zhao Guixia , Chen Changlun , Chai Zhifang , Alsaedi Ahmed , Hayat Tasawar , Wang Xiangke
Published: March 2018

Metal–organic framework-based materials represent a new addition to the area of capturing diverse toxic and radioactive metal ions.
Key properties of Ni–MgO–CeO2, Ni–MgO–ZrO2, and Ni–MgO–Ce(1−x)Zr(x)O2catalysts for the reforming of methane with carbon dioxide
Authors: Jang Won-Jun , Kim Hak-Min , Shim Jae-Oh , Yoo Seong-Yeun , Jeon Kyung-Won , Na Hyun-Suk , Lee Yeol-Lim , Jeong Dae-Woon , Bae Jong Wook , Nah In Wook , Roh Hyun-Seog
Published: March 2018

The size of Ni particles and the oxygen storage capacity are found to be the primary and secondary key factors that influence the catalytic performance, respectively.
Rethinking Co(CO3)0.5(OH)·0.11H2O: a new property for highly selective electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to methanol in aqueous solution
Authors: Huang Jianzhi , Hu Qiong , Guo Xinrong , Zeng Qiang , Wang Lishi
Published: March 2018

Co(CO3)0.5(OH)·0.11H2O: a new property for highly selective electroreduction of CO2 to CH3OH.
PQS-enabled visible-light iridium photoredox catalysis in water at room temperature
Authors: Bu Mei-jie , Cai Chun , Gallou Fabrice , Lipshutz Bruce H.
Published: March 2018

A new photocatalyst attached to the designer surfactant PQS has been developed that self-aggregates into micelles, thereby enabling photoredox catalysis conducted in water at room temperature without any additives or co-solvents.
Investigation of spectral interference in the determination of Pb in road dust using high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry and direct solid sample analysis
Authors: Fick Susane Schossler , Nakadi Flávio Venâncio , Fujiwara Fabian , Smichowski Patricia , Vale Maria Goreti R. , Welz Bernhard , de Andrade Jailson B.
Published: March 2018

Pb determination using HR-CS SS-GF AAS in road dust samples and evaluation of spectral interference.
A dynamic sugar based bio-inspired, self-healing hydrogel exhibiting ESIPT
Authors: Maity Santu , Chatterjee Aroni , Chakraborty Nilanjan , Ganguly Jhuma
Published: March 2018

A bio-inspired, self-healing chitosan-5-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-hydroxyisophthalaldehyde (CBTHP) fluorescent hydrogel has been developed which exhibits ultrafast ESIPT in both gel and solution phase.
Giant exchange coupling and field-induced slow relaxation of magnetization in Gd2@C79N with a single-electron Gd–Gd bond
Authors: Velkos G. , Krylov D. S. , Kirkpatrick K. , Liu X. , Spree L. , Wolter A. U. B. , Büchner B. , Dorn H. C. , Popov A. A.
Published: March 2018

Single-electron Gd–Gd bond in Gd2@C79N results in giant ferromagnetic coupling between local 4f magnetic moments and unpaired electron spin.
In situ plasma-assisted atmospheric nitrogen fixation using water and spray-type jet plasma
Authors: Peng Peng , Chen Paul , Addy Min , Cheng Yanling , Zhang Yaning , Anderson Erik , Zhou Nan , Schiappacasse Charles , Hatzenbeller Raymond , Fan Liangliang , Liu Shiyu , Chen Dongjie , Liu Juer , Liu Yuhuan , Ruan Roger
Published: March 2018

An in situ nitrogen fixation process is introduced, using the novel spray-type jet plasma, to co-synthesize nitrate, nitrite, and ammonium.
The n → π* interaction in metal complexes
Authors: Echeverría Jorge
Published: March 2018

We report for the first time the existence of n → π* interactions in transition metal complexes containing carbonyl ligands.
Combining cooperativity with sequestration: a novel strategy for discrimination of single nucleotide variants
Authors: Hu Shichao , Li Na , Liu Feng
Published: March 2018

We present a novel single nucleotide variant discrimination strategy combining cooperativity with sequestration to significantly improve the discrimination ability.
Temperature-dependent self-assembly of a purely organic cage in water
Authors: Zheng Xujun , Zhang Yang , Wu Guangcheng , Liu Ji-Ren , Cao Ning , Wang Lei , Wang Yan , Li Xiaopeng , Hong Xin , Yang Chuluo , Li Hao
Published: March 2018

Using a novel dynamic covalent approach relying on reversible hydrazone formation, a purely organic 3-dimensional prismatic cage was developed in water at elevated temperatures.
Inhibition of amyloid Aβ aggregation by high pressures or specificd-enantiomeric peptides
Authors: Cavini Italo A. , Munte Claudia E. , Erlach Markus Beck , van Groen Thomas , Kadish Inga , Zhang Tao , Ziehm Tamar , Nagel-Steger Luitgard , Kutzsche Janine , Kremer Werner , Willbold Dieter , Kalbitzer Hans Robert
Published: March 2018

Pressure as well as specificd-enantiomeric peptides can stabilize Aβ-monomers and thus inhibit amyloid aggregation.
Ferroelasticity and piezoelectricity of organic–inorganic hybrid materials with a one-dimensional anionic structure: so similar, yet so different
Authors: Piecha-Bisiorek Anna , Mencel Klaudia , Kinzhybalo Vasyl , Szota Aleksandra , Jakubas Ryszard , Medycki Wojciech , Zawrocki Wiktor
Published: March 2018

The synthesis, structural aspects, and thermal and dielectric analysis for new members of the ferroic family, polynuclear Bi(iii) and Sb(iii) halide complexes based on a pyrazolium cation with the formulas (C3N2H5)[BiCl4]·H2O and (C3N2H5)[SbCl4]·H2O, are presented.
Fragment-orbital tunneling currents and electronic couplings for analysis of molecular charge-transfer systems
Authors: Hwang Sang-Yeon , Kim Jaewook , Kim Woo Youn
Published: March 2018

The tunneling currents of fragment orbitals provide a way of quantifying electronic coupling elements and visualizing electron-transfer patterns in molecular systems.
A comprehensive study of electronic and photocatalytic properties in monolayer, double-layer and bulk Bi2WO6
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Dai Ying , Wei Wei , Huang Baibiao
Published: March 2018

Advantageous separation of carriers and enhanced redox capacity induced by structure reconstruction in atomically thick Bi2WO6 boost their photocatalytic activities.
Green synthesis of fluorescent carbon quantum dots for the detection of mercury(ii) and glutathione
Authors: Bano Daraksha , Kumar Vijay , Singh Vikas Kumar , Hasan Syed Hadi
Published: March 2018

On–off–on detection of Hg2+and GSH using green-synthesized CQDs fromT. indicaleaves for the first time.
The effect of co-sensitization methods between N719 and boron dipyrromethene triads on dye-sensitized solar cell performance
Authors: Wanwong Sompit , Sangkhun Weradesh , Wootthikanokkhan Jatuphorn
Published: March 2018

BODIPY triad, BD, was prepared as co-sensitizer. The stepwise sensitization method exhibited higher PCE, compared to the co-deposition method.
Adaptive output stationary average consensus for heterogeneous unknown linear multi‐agent systems
Authors: Rezaei Mohammad Hadi , Menhaj Mohammad Bagher
Published: March 2018

This study deals with the output stationary average consensus problem for heterogeneous linear multi‐agent systems with unknown parameters under undirected or balanced directed networks. The output stationary average consensus means that the outputs of agents reach an agreement on the average of their initial outputs. Each agent is modelled as an unknown linear system of any order (which might extensively vary between the agents) with the relative degree one or two. The agent in the network has only access to its own output and the relative outputs of its neighbours. Based on a direct model reference adaptive control scheme, a novel decentralised adaptive output consensus protocol is proposed to ensure that the output of each agent converges to the output of its reference model, as well as reaching output stationary average consensus. Finally, an illustrative example is presented to better highlight the merit of the proposed protocol.
Negotiation strategy for discharging price of EVs based on fuzzy Bayesian learning
Authors: Zhang Qian , Tan Weiyu , Cai Jiajia , Wang Zhong , Li Chunyan
Published: March 2018

To stimulate the participation of electric vehicles (EVs) in vehicle‐to‐grid (V2G) activities, some economic incentives should be offered to the EV owners and the discharging price is negotiated by EV aggregator and electricity grid. Here, this study proposes a negotiation strategy between EV aggregator and electricity grid which focuses on how to develop a reasonable mechanism for discharging price, and then the bilateral negotiation function models of discharging price based on fuzzy Bayesian learning are established. In the models, the certain parameters are calculated according to the profits and cost of the EV aggregator and electricity grid; and the fuzzy probability calculation method is formulated to estimate and calculate the uncertain parameters of the functions of both sides, respectively. Additionally, the negotiation function models based on fuzzy Bayesian learning is utilised for updating and correcting the deviation of estimates and the discharging price is finally found out by the parameters above. Through numerical cases, the negotiation strategy proposed in this study is verified to be effective in the early promotion of V2G.
Arc temperature profile measurement and characteristic analysis on an SF6 high‐voltage CB
Authors: Bai Su , Guan Yonggang , Luo Haiyun , Liu Weidong
Published: March 2018

The arc temperature profile in an interrupter, which determines the extinguishing characteristic of an SF6 circuit breaker (CB), is of interest to designers and developers. In this investigation, optical fibres and spectrograph were employed to measure the arc temperature profiles in a 252 kV SF6 CB during short current interrupting. The temperature profiles of the upstream, throat, and downstream of the nozzle have been measured. The optical fibres can transfer the arc light from the measuring points in the nozzle to the spectrograph. Moreover, the spectral line intensities of copper (Cu) 510.5, Cu 515.3, and Cu 521.8 nm were obtained by the spectrograph. The condition in CB can be treated as a local thermal equilibrium system, and the temperature profiles can be calculated by two‐line method and Abel inverse method. The arc temperature profiles of the interrupter under 15–50 kA root mean square current have been analysed through the method established in this investigation.
PSO of power cable performance in complex surroundings
Authors: Al‐Saud Mamdooh S.
Published: March 2018

Underground cable performance indices such as maximum cable temperature and ampacity are non‐continuous functions of the configuration parameters such as depth and width of various trench layers. In this respect, existing traditional gradient‐type methods cannot be used to optimise such performance indices. This study presents an efficient methodology for optimising power cable thermal performance with respect to configuration parameters involving cable spacing, depth of burial and size of backfill. The new methodology integrates the powerful features of the finite elements (FEs) technique coupled with the flexibility and effectiveness of the particle swarm optimisation (PSO) algorithm in order to handle various geometrical parameters in the complex surrounding operating environment. The introduced methodology is tested using a commercial FE simulation package used in conjunction with developed PSO code. The integrated methodology can be employed to minimise the maximum cable temperature, minimise installation cost or maximise cable ampacity. Practical applications are presented for 15 kV cables, which demonstrate the usefulness and versatility of the presented methodology. Notable improvements have been achieved by optimising the cable trench configuration parameters. For example, the cable ampacity was maximised, optimising the cable spacing, barrier depth and backfill thermal conductivity, which resulted in an appreciable increase of 4.5%.
Model simulation of jet precession in quasar PG 1302-102
Authors: Qian S. J. , Britzen S. , Witzel A. , Krichbaum T. P. , Kun E.
Published: March 2018

Context. The study of periodic (or quasi-periodic) variabilities in optical and radio bands and quasi-periodic radio-jet swings are important to further our understanding of the physical processes in blazars. Among these the correlation between the periodic or quasi-periodic phenomena in radio and optical bands is particularly significant, because it can provide unique information about the relativistic jets and central engines in the nuclei of blazars.

Aims. We aim to investigate the possibility that the radio jet swing on parsec scales observed in PG 1302-102 (z = 0.278) is a quasi-periodic phenomenon and study its correlation with the periodic optical variability claimed in a recently published work, seeking evidence for a binary black hole system.

Methods. The precessing jet-nozzle model proposed in our previous works was applied to simulate the kinematics of the superluminal components. It is shown that the inner-jet kinematic features can well be explained in terms of the precessing nozzle model.

Results. Based on the model simulation (model fitting) of the inner kinematics for its six superluminal components, a precession period of ~5.1583 ± 0.5 yr is derived for the radio jet swing and the kinematics of all the six components are consistently interpreted. The similarity between the radio jet precession period and the optical period found in its optical light curve may be physically significant. Both periodic behaviors in radio and optical bands could be explained in terms of the orbital motion of a black hole binary, if the orbital plane makes large inclinations to the sky plane: the orbital motion of the primary hole produces the periodic jet swing and the orbital motion of the secondary hole produces the periodic optical variability as suggested in the literature. Thus the total mass and the mass ratio of the binary are estimated.

Conclusions. Based on this analysis, we show that PG 1302-102 might have a supermassive black hole binary existing in its nucleus and it is starting to enter its inspiral phase of merging. Gravitational radiation would start to dominate the energy-momentum loss for its orbital shrinkage.
A novel fuzzy data envelopment analysis based on robust possibilistic programming: possibility, necessity and credibility-based approaches
Authors: Peykani Pejman , Mohammadi Emran , Pishvaee Mir Saman , Rostamy-Malkhalifeh Mohsen , Jabbarzadeh Armin
Published: March 2018

Possibilistic programming approach is one of the most popular methods used to cope with epistemic uncertainty in optimization models. In this paper, several robust fuzzy data envelopment analysis (RFDEA) models are proposed by the use of different fuzzy measures including possibility, necessity and credibility measures. Despite the regular fuzzy DEA methods, the proposed models are able to endogenously adjust the confidence level of each constraints and produce both conservative and non-conservative methods based on various fuzzy measures. The developed RFDEA models are then linearized and numerically compared to regular fuzzy DEA models. Illustrative results in all of the FDEA and RFDEA models show that, maximum efficiency is obtained for possibility, credibility and necessity-based models, respectively.
Hyperforin and Miquelianin from St. Johnʼs Wort Attenuate Gene Expression in Neuronal Cells After Dexamethasone-Induced Stress
Authors: Verjee Sheela , Weston Anna , Kolb Christiane , Kalbhenn-Aziz Heba , Butterweck Veronika
Published: March 2018

Dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays an important part in the development of depressive symptoms. In this study, the effects of a commercial St. Johnʼs wort extract (STW3-VI), hyperforin, miquelianin, and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor citalopram on the expression of genes relevant to HPA axis function were investigated in human neuronal cells. SH-SY5Y cells were treated with STW3-VI (20 µg/mL), hyperforin (1 µM), miquelianin (10 µM), or citalopram (10 µM) in the presence of the glucocorticoid receptor agonist dexamethasone (DEX,10 µM) for 6 h and 48 h, respectively. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the expression of FKBP5 (FK506 binding protein 51), CREB (cAMP responsive element binding protein), GRIK4 (glutamate ionotropic receptor kainate type subunit 4), VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), NET (norepinephrine transporter), and ARRB (β-arrestins), promising biomarkers of antidepressant therapy. Using DEX to mimic stress conditions, it was shown that the gene expression pattern of FKBP5, CREB, GRIK4, VEGF, NET, and ARRB2 in SH-SY5Y cells is time- and treatment-dependent. Most pronounced effects were observed for FKBP5: after 6 h of co-incubation, only STW3-VI could reverse the DEX-induced increase in FKBP5 expression, and after 48 h, citalopram, miquelianin, and hyperforin also reversed the glucocorticoid-induced increase in FKBP5 mRNA expression. The effects observed on FKBP5, CREB, GRIK4, VEGF, NET, and ARRB2 are in good correlation with published data, suggesting that this in vitro model could be used to screen the responsiveness of antidepressants under stress conditions.
Zum Zusammenhang zwischen Körperschema und sozio-emotionalem Verhalten bei umschriebenen
Entwicklungsstörungen der Wahrnehmung und Motorik
Authors: Reinersmann Annika , Lücke Thomas
Published: March 2018

Diese Übersichtsarbeit diskutiert mögliche Zusammenhänge zwischen der übergeordneten neuronalen Repräsentation
des Körpers, dem „Körperschema“, und Störungen der sensorischen Wahrnehmung, motorischen Funktionen und
sozio-emotionalen Entwicklung. Die Erforschung der neurophysiologischen Grundlagen und Funktionen des
Körperschemas konzentrierte sich bisher vorwiegend auf das Erwachsenenalter. Es ist wenig bekannt darüber, wie
sich bestimmte Körperschemafunktionen im Kindesalter entwickeln, wie räumliche Aspekte der taktilen
Verarbeitung mit der Bewegungsplanung interagieren und in Wechselwirkung mit Meilensteinen der emotionalen und
sozial-emotionalen Entwicklung stehen. In diesem Beitrag werden die existierenden Befunde zur Entwicklung des
Körperschemas mit Fokus auf multisensorische Verarbeitungs- und Integrationsprozesse und Wechselwirkungen für
Störungen der sozio-emotionalen Entwicklung diskutiert.
Erbliche Sehnerverkrankungen
Authors: Rüther Klaus
Published: March 2018

Trotz der Seltenheit haben die erblichen Sehnerverkrankungen den Vorteil, dass sie oftmals durch die Anamnese erkannt werden können und die Diagnosesicherung heute sicher durch eine molekulargenetische Untersuchung geleistet werden kann. Als isolierte erbliche Sehnerverkrankungen sind im augenheilkundlichen Alltag die Leberʼsche hereditäre Optikusneuropathie (LHON) und die autosomal-dominante Optikusatrophie (ADOA) relevant.
12. ergotag 2018 - Volles Haus – voller Erfolg
Authors: Janssen Christina
Published: March 2018

Am 28. Januar 2018 fand der 12. ergotag unter dem Motto „Betätigungsorientierung – ein Weg, der sich lohnt!“ auf der Messe in Stuttgart statt. Restlos ausverkauft mit 300 Teilnehmern, die sich von der Begeisterung der Referenten, betätigungsorientiert und klientenzentriert zu arbeiten, mitreißen ließen.
Handeln gegen Trägheit – Handeln ermöglichen – Trägheit überwinden
Authors: Pfeiffer Andreas
Published: March 2018

Wie können Ergotherapeuten Menschen mit schweren psychischen Erkrankungen motivieren, wieder aktiv zu werden und Veränderungen auch wirklich anzugehen? Andreas Pfeiffer ist einer der Autoren, die ein dafür etabliertes kanadisches Therapieprogramm für deutsche Ergotherapeuten zugänglich machten. Ein Einblick.
Flavonol Glycosides from Saussurea controversa and Their Efficiency in Experimental Osteomyelitis
Authors: Avdeeva Elena , Shults Elvira , Skorokhodova Marina , Reshetov Yaroslav , Porokhova Ekaterina , Sukhodolo Irina , Krasnov Efim , Belousov Mikhail
Published: March 2018

Five flavonoids were isolated from leaves of Saussurea controversa, one new flavonoid (5), three described for the first time from the genus Saussurea (1, 2, and 4), and one described previously (3). A number of flavonol glycosides can be easily isolated from the butanol fraction of the ethanol extract from S. controversa. As a result of separating these using column chromatography on silica gel and microcrystalline cellulose, five glycosides of quercetin were isolated in the proportional relationship of 2 (1): 8 (2): 10 (3): 1 (4): 4 (5). The structure of these substances was determined using the method of NMR by conducting various 1H-1H and 1H-13C correlation spectroscopy experiments and by comparing their spectroscopic data with published values, 5,3/,4/-trihydroxyflavone-7-О-α-L-rhamnopyranoside-3-О-β-D-glucopyranosidе (1), 5,7,3/,4/-tetrahydroxyflavone-3-О-β-D-glucopyranoside-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside-(1→6)-О-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (2), 5,7,3/,4/-tetrahydroxyflavone-3-О-β-D-glucopyranoside-(1→6)-О-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (3), 5,3/,4/-trihydroxyflavone-7-О-α-L-rhamnopyranoside-3-О-β-D-xylopyranoside (4), and 5,3/,4/-trihydroxyflavone-7-О-β-D-glucopyranoside-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside-(1→2)-О-β-D-glucopyranoside (5). It was established for the first time that flavonol glycosides from S. controversa stimulate granulopoiesis and lymphopoiesis in the bone marrow of rats, and enhance the reparative process in the affected area in experimental osteomyelitis.
Telemedizin – Telemonitoring bei COPD-Patienten
Authors: Thiem Helena
Published: March 2018

Achelrod et al. Health-economic evaluation of home telemonitoring for COPD in Germany: evidence from a large
population-based cohort. Eur J Health Econ 2017; 18: 869–882

Um die Versorgungsqualität der steigenden Zahl von COPD-Patienten zu sichern, wird unter anderem
Telemonitoring zur begleitenden Behandlung der Patienten eingesetzt. Achelrod et al. untersuchten, welche
Auswirkungen dies auf die direkten medizinischen Kosten, den Verbrauch von Ressourcen sowie die
Mortalitätsrate hat.
Religiöse/spirituelle Bedürfnisse und psychosoziale Belastung von Patienten mit malignem Melanom
Authors: Haußmann Annette , Schäffeler Norbert , Hautzinger Martin , Weyel Birgit , Eigentler Thomas , Zipfel Stephan , Teufel Martin
Published: March 2018

Einleitung Während einer Krebserkrankung stellen sich Fragen nach Lebenssinn in neuer Prägnanz. Studien zeigen, dass ein Großteil der Patienten spirituelle Bedürfnisse äußern und Religiosität/ Spiritualität eine wichtige Ressource in der Krankheitsbewältigung sein kann. Bislang liegen zur Entwicklung psychischer Belastung und der Rolle spiritueller Bedürfnisse im Krankheits- und Behandlungsverlauf von Patienten mit malignem Melanom wenige Studien vor.

Methoden Die Studie untersucht religiöse/spirituelle Bedürfnisse und psychosoziale Belastungen bei n = 22 Patienten mit malignem Melanom zu 2 Zeitpunkten: stationärer Aufenthalt zur Entfernung der Wächterlymphknoten (t1) sowie 8 Wochen später (t2). Distress, Angst, Depressivität sowie spirituelle Bedürfnisse und Religiosität wurden mithilfe standardisierter Assessments (HSI, DT, HADS, PHQ; SpNQ; SpREUK) erfasst.

Ergebnisse Unabhängig von Belastung und Messzeitpunkt äußerten alle Patienten spirituelle Bedürfnisse. Besonders wichtig waren das Bedürfnis nach ganzheitlichem Heilsein, sozialer Einbindung, Gewissheit von Lebenssinn und Gespräch über Sorgen und Ängste. Es zeigte sich eine geringere psychische Belastung von Patienten, die sich selbst als religiös bezeichneten.

Diskussion Die Ergebnisse zeigen die Relevanz einer Berücksichtigung von spirituellen Bedürfnissen im klinischen und ambulanten Kontext der Krebsbehandlung. Die Befunde deuten außerdem darauf hin, dass Religiosität/Spiritualität eine wichtige Ressource bei der Krankheitsverarbeitung sein kann.

Schlussfolgerung Spirituelle Bedürfnisse sollten im Behandlungsprozess im Sinne eines integrativen Behandlungskonzepts sowohl von psychoonkologischer als auch von seelsorgerlicher Seite erfragt und berücksichtigt werden.
Achtsamkeit im Arbeitsalltag – Gelassen durch den Tag
Authors: Grießig Ritva
Published: March 2018

Der ergotherapeutische Arbeitsalltag verleitet dazu, ins Hamsterrad zu springen und sich um alle zu kümmern, nur nicht um sich selbst. Ergotherapeutin und Psychologin Ritva Grießig zeigt, wie man trotz Hausbesuch und Termintakt achtsam für die eigenen Bedürfnisse sein kann.
Reduction by invariants and projection of linear representations of Lie algebras applied to the construction of nonlinear realizations
Authors: Campoamor-Stursberg R.
Published: March 2018

A procedure for the construction of nonlinear realizations of Lie algebras in the context of Vessiot–Guldberg–Lie algebras of first-order systems of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) is proposed. The method is based on the reduction of invariants and projection of lowest-dimensional (irreducible) representations of Lie algebras. Applications to the description of parameterized first-order systems of ODEs related by contraction of Lie algebras are given. In particular, the kinematical Lie algebras in (2 + 1)- and (3 + 1)-dimensions are realized simultaneously as Vessiot–Guldberg–Lie algebras of parameterized nonlinear systems in R3 and R4, respectively.
A portable liquid crystal-based polarized light system for the detection of organophosphorus nerve gas
Authors: He Feng Jie , Liu Hui Long , Chen Long Cong , Xiong Xing Liang
Published: March 2018

Liquid crystal (LC)-based sensors have the advantageous properties of being fast, sensitive, and label-free, the results of which can be accessed directly only through the naked eye. However, the inherent disadvantages possessed by LC sensors, such as relying heavily on polarizing microscopes and the difficulty to quantify, have limited the possibility of field applications. Herein, we have addressed these issues by constructing a portable polarized detection system with constant temperature control. This system is mainly composed of four parts: the LC cell, the optics unit, the automatic temperature control unit, and the image processing unit. The LC cell was based on the ordering transitions of LCs in the presence of analytes. The optics unit based on the imaging principle of LCs was designed to substitute the polarizing microscope for the real-time observation. The image processing unit is expected to quantify the concentration of analytes. The results have shown that the presented system can detect dimethyl methyl phosphonate (a stimulant for organophosphorus nerve gas) within 25 s, and the limit of detection is about 10 ppb. In all, our portable system has potential in field applications.
Asymmetry in electrical coupling between neurons alters multistable firing behavior
Authors: Pisarchik A. N. , Jaimes-Reátegui R. , García-Vellisca M. A.
Published: March 2018

The role of asymmetry in electrical synaptic connection between two neuronal oscillators is studied in the Hindmarsh-Rose model. We demonstrate that the asymmetry induces multistability in spiking dynamics of the coupled neuronal oscillators. The coexistence of at least three attractors, one chaotic and two periodic orbits, for certain coupling strengths is demonstrated with time series, phase portraits, bifurcation diagrams, basins of attraction of the coexisting states, Lyapunov exponents, and standard deviations of peak amplitudes and interspike intervals. The experimental results with analog electronic circuits are in good agreement with the results of numerical simulations.
Origins of excitation-wavelength-dependent photoluminescence in WS2 quantum dots
Authors: Caigas Septem P. , Santiago Svette Reina Merden , Lin Tzu-Neng , Lin Cheng-An J. , Yuan Chi-Tsu , Shen Ji-Lin , Lin Tai-Yuan
Published: March 2018

We report the photoluminescence studies of pristine and diethylenetriamine-doped (DETA-doped) WS2 quantum dots (QDs) synthesized by pulsed laser ablation. The DETA-doped WS2 QDs revealed a notable improvement of the luminescence quantum yield from 0.1% to 15.2% in comparison to pristine WS2 QDs. On the basis of the photoluminescence (PL) under different excitation wavelengths and the emission-energy dependence of PL dynamics, we suggest that the excitation-wavelength-dependent (excitation-wavelength-independent) PL for pristine (DETA-doped) WS2 QDs is attributed to the recombination of carriers from the localized (delocalized) states.
Broadband acoustic phased array with subwavelength active tube array
Authors: Li Xiao-Yan , Yang Zhang-Zhao , Zhu Yi-Fan , Zou Xin-Ye , Cheng Jian-Chun
Published: March 2018

Acoustic metasurfaces provide a way to manipulate wavefronts at anomalous reflection or refraction angles through subwavelength structures. Here, based on the generalized Snell's refraction law for acoustic metasurfaces and the classical acoustic phased array (PA) theory, a broadband acoustic PA with a subwavelength active tube array has been proposed to form a special acoustic beam and to determine the directivity characteristics of the acoustic source. Theoretical analysis shows that the dispersionless wavefront manipulation can be realized by the gradient model of the active tube array, and a wide working frequency band can be obtained in practical applications from the simulated and experimental results. The numerical results of forming a special acoustic beam and establishing an acoustic focus model with an arbitrary focal position are consistent with the theoretical predictions. The experimental results agree well with the simulated results in the model of forming the acoustic beam of 45°. By combining acoustic metamaterials and conventional acoustic PA, the model of the active tube array paves a way to design a composite acoustic PA with high radiation efficiency and system robustness without the need for any complex circuit control system. This design concept is expected to be used in the design of ultrasonic therapy devices and high-efficiency transducers.
Effects of temperature and electric field on order parameters in ferroelectric hexagonal manganites
Authors: Zhang C. X. , Yang K. L. , Jia P. , Lin H. L. , Li C. F. , Lin L. , Yan Z. B. , Liu J.-M.
Published: March 2018

In Landau-Devonshire phase transition theory, the order parameter represents a unique property for a disorder-order transition at the critical temperature. Nevertheless, for a phase transition with more than one order parameter, such behaviors can be quite different and system-dependent in many cases. In this work, we investigate the temperature (T) and electric field (E) dependence of the two order parameters in improper ferroelectric hexagonal manganites, addressing the phase transition from the high-symmetry P63/mmc structure to the polar P63cm structure. It is revealed that the trimerization as the primary order parameter with two components: the trimerization amplitude Q and phase Φ, and the spontaneous polarization P emerging as the secondary order parameter exhibit quite different stability behaviors against various T and E. The critical exponents for the two parameters Q and P are 1/2 and 3/2, respectively. As temperature increases, the window for the electric field E enduring the trimerization state will shrink. An electric field will break the Z2 part of the Z2×Z3 symmetry. The present work may shed light on the complexity of the vortex-antivortex domain structure evolution near the phase transition temperature.