bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DPPH Scavenging Activities and Phytochemical Content of Four Asteraceae Plants
Authors: Indradi Raden Bayu , Fidrianny Irda , Wirasutisna Komar Ruslan
Published: July 2017

Free radicals are atoms or molecules that have one or more unpaired electrons on its outer orbital, highly reactive, and
could damage cell inside human body. Human body produce antioxidant to neutralize free radicals, but human ageing
and stress oxidative conditions would increase the formation of free radicals, therefore an exogenous antioxidant are
needed. Asteraceae family is the largest family among the plant kingdom therefore it has great potential as source of
exogeneous antioxidants. The objectives of this research were to determine antioxidant activities of aerial part of
elephant’s foot (Elephantopus scaber L.), false daisy (Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk.), Indian pluchea (Pluchea indica (L.)
Less), and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale Weber ex F.H Wigg.) using DPPH method, determine total flavonoid and
total phenolic content, and analyze correlation between total flavonoid content and total phenolic content with
antioxidant activity. Extraction was carried out by reflux with increasing polarity using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and
ethanol respectively. Antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH method. Total flavonoid content was determined
using Chang’s method and total phenolic content evaluated using Folin—Ciocalteu reagent. Correlation of total
flavonoid content and total phenolic content was analyzed by Pearson’s method. Ethanolic extract of Indian pluchea
showed the highest antioxidant activity with IC50 DPPH 16.66 ± 0.08 µg/mL. The highest total phenolic content (23.49 ±
0,56 g QE (Quercetin Equivalent)/100 g) was given by ethyl acetate extract of Indian pluchea, while the highest
flavonoid content (16.48 ± 0.25 g GAE (Gallic Acid Equivalent)/100 g) was showed by ethanolic extract of Indian
pluchea. Total phenolic content of elephant’s foot, false daisy and Indian pluchea herbs extracts showed significantly
negative correlation with their IC50 of DPPH scavenging activities. Indian pluchea herbs extract had the highest
antioxidant activity using DPPH method compared to elephant’s foot, false daisy and dandelion herbs. Phenolic
compounds were the major contributor in antioxidant activities of elephant’s foot, false daisy and dandelion herbs
extracts by DPPH method.
Phytochemical Analysis of Ficus arnottiana (Miq.) Miq. Leaf Extract Using GC-MS Analysis
Authors: A. Babu , D. Anand , P. Saravanan
Published: July 2017

The medically important plant Ficus arnottiana (Miq.) Miq. belongs to the family ‘Moraceae’ have been used extensively
by ayurvedic practitioners in India to treat various ailments. The plant was investigated for GC MS (Gas Chromatography
Mass Spectroscopy) analysis to identify the chemical composition present in chloroform and ethanol leaf extract of F.
arnottiana. A total of twelve and sixteen bioactive compound, were observed in chloroform and ethanol leaf extract
respectively. Maximum peak area was observed for Tritetracontane (24.29%), 2, 6-lutidine 3,5-dichloro-4-dodecylthio
(12.78%).All the components identified possess various degrees of pharmacological properties. Further these compounds
need investigation on toxicological properties before the development of potential lead molecule for therapeutic
importance.
Antioxidant Activity and Phytochemical Screening of Costus pictus D. Don Leaf Extracts
Authors: A. Naik , R.i Krishnamurthy , J. Pathak
Published: July 2017

The occurrence of chronic diseases is rapidly growing worldwide. Diet and nutrition are significant aspects in the promotion
and maintenance of good quality health throughout the whole life span. Overproduction of liberated radicals occurred due
to physiological and biochemical changes in our body and then can cause oxidative damage to biocompounds of human
body (e.g. lipids, proteins, DNA). Medicinal plant based products exert beneficial properties such as antioxidant,
anticancer, hypoglycemic and hypolipidaemic activities so their utilization is increased recently. This study includes
preliminary phytochemical screening and quantification of phenol and flavonoid of Costus pictus aqueous (CPAQ) and
methanolic (CPME) extracts. DPPH, FRAP, Fe3+ reducing power, and superoxide scavenging assay were used for the
estimation of antioxidant potential of leaf extracts CPAQ and CPME. CPME gave the elevated amount of phenol and
flavonoid content and antioxidant activities. The antioxidant activity of Costus pictus extracts significantly correlated (P less than
0.05) with the phenolic content. Ascorbic acid used as standard compound and showed maximum antioxidant power in this
study.
A Review on Traditional Ayurvedic Preparations Containing Gold
Authors: Sravani Karri , Ketan Hatware , Sanjay Sharma
Published: July 2017

The gold and its preparations are used from the ancient time throughout the world for many purposes. In Ayurveda gold is
having great importance for its utilization in many pathological conditions as a therapeutic remedy. The present review
enlightens some of the gold preparations were practised in Ayurveda like Swarna lehan, Swarna bhasma, Suvarna bindu,
Suvarna Vacha, Kumarabharana Rasa and Swarnamrita prashana. We focused on their traditional method of preparations,
therapeutic potential and limitations along with the future prospectus. There is a need of further studies for paying attention
towards the use of gold and its preparations in the modern era.
GC-MS Analysis of Momordica charantia and Momordica dioica Fruit and Root Methanolic Extracts
Authors: M. Anjamma , N. Lakshmi Bhavani
Published: July 2017

The present paper reports the GC-MS analysis studies of Momordica charantia and Momordica dioica Fruit and Root
methanolic extracts. An attempt is made to analyze comparatively for the presence of similar compounds with biological
activity in both the plants, to assess the chemotaxonomic relationship between these two plants. These two plants are
perennial, rhizomatous, climbers belonging to cucurbitaceae family. These are seasonal vegetables of high demand and
medicinal plants in Asian countries. Momordica charantia is indigenous and because of its higher medicinal importance it
is also cultivated throughout the world. There is a growing demand for fruit and roots of Momordica charantia and
Momordica dioica in the pharmaceutical trade due to their usage as medicinal agents for anti-inflammation, degenerative
diseases including atherosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, ageing, diabetes mellitus, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases
and others. In the present study fruit and roots of Momordica charantia and Momordica dioica were sequentially extracted
by methanol and GC-MS analysis is carried for the extracts separately. The extracts showed the presence of many
phytoconstituents reported in these plants. The GC-MS analysis of the methanolic extract revealed the presence of many
similar major compound like plamictic acid with antidiabetic property is identified in both fruit and root methanolic extracts
of Momordica charantia and Momordica dioica . This study forms a basis for the biological characterization and
importance of the compounds identified.
Isolation and Characterization of Phytol from Justicia gendarussa Burm. f.-An Anti-Inflammatory Compound
Authors: N. D. Phatangare , K. K. Deshmukh , V. D. Murade , G. J. Hase , T.R. Gaje
Published: July 2017

Justicia gendarussa burm.f. has become important source of Phytol which is associated with other
phenolic,terpenoids,alkaloids. Diterpenes shows anti-inflammatory activity. Phytol is a acyclic diterpene alcohol found as
essential oil in aromatic plants.oil is obtained by Keshav-Naren apparatus (patent no:2343/Mum/2013/A).Phytol separated
from other oil part by fractional distillation. It separated at 204-2080C.Characterization of Phytol carried out by
IR,NMR,and mass spectrometry. Phytol shows potent as Anti-inflammatory activity by releasing histamine (26.92%),
serotin and bradykinin (49.90%), and prostaglandin (68.03%) as compared to standard (Dicolfenac 5mg/kg).
THE ESTIMATION METHOD OF S-ACID LACTIC IN THE FERMENTATION PRODUCTS OF ALOE VERA GEL BY HIGH- PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY
Authors: Dong Nguyen Kim , Bich Duong Thi , Toan Nguyen Chi
Published: July 2017

 An accurate, precise, simple and economical High Performance Liquid Chromatographic method for the estimation of S-acid lactic in the process of fermentation of Aloe Vera gel has been developed. The method is using HIQSIL 100 C18column (Length: 250nm, Diameter: 4.6nm, Particle size: 5μ) with potassium dihydrogen phosphate as mobile phase. The separation was performed by UV detector at 210 nm wavelength. The flow rate was kept at 1mL/min and the injection volume was 20μl. The results obtained showed that the linearity of the method was 0-180 ppm, and the correlation coefficient was found to be 0.999. Detection limit of the method for S-acid lactic was 1.15 ppm. The mean recoveries were from 95% to 99%. The reproducibility RSDs ranged from 2.87%. The results demonstrated the suitability of the HPLC approach for the analysis of S-acid lactic in the process of fermentation from Aloe Vera gel.
Determinants of Lending Interest Rates of Nepalese Commercial Banks
Authors: Bhattarai Yuga Raj
Published: July 2017

The aim of this study is to investigate the determinants of lending rate of Nepalese commercial banks. The analysis of data was based on a sample of 6 commercial banks observed over the period 6 years (2010 to 2015). The models used in the study were: pooled OLS model, fixed effects model and random effects model. This study has used ‘lending rate’ as dependent variable, while the explanatory variables are: operating cost to total assets ratio, deposit interest rate, profitability (ROA) and default risk. The estimated results of these three regression models reveal that operating costs to total assets ratio, profitability (ROA) and default risk have significant positive impact on the commercial bank lending rate. However, deposit rate has negligible impact on lending interest rate. Thus, this study concludes that the major determinants of commercial banks’ lending rate are: operating costs to total assets ratio, profitability (ROA) and default risk in Nepalese perspectives.Economic Journal of Development Issues Vol. 19 & 20 No. 1-2 (2015) Combined Issue, Page: 39-59
Evaluation of Job Preference of Prospective Dentists using Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Shrestha Rabindra Man , Shrestha Sujita , Sapkota Vishnu Prasad
Published: July 2017

Introduction: The number of dentists is increasing in Nepal and they have a tendency to accumulate in the capital and major cities of the country. Moreover, their job priorities and professional inclinations have not been identified yet. The need, demand and supply of the dental professionals and their retention in rural areas are required to be studied from the health economics perspective. The main objective of the study was to identify preferences on job characteristics of prospective dentists and determine monetary valuation of the attributes of job choices.Methodology: Discrete choice experiment (DCE) with choice sets in the form of self-administered questionnaire was used. 402 Nepalese dental students, interns and recently graduated dentists from various universities were studied. Seven job characteristics and their corresponding levels were determined from focus group discussion. We adopted main effect fractional factorial design to create 48 choice sets. The respondents were divided into 6 blocks, with each block comprising of 8 choice sets. Each choice set comprised of two choices and an alternative specific constant (ASC). Multiple logistic regression with mixed logit model was applied to analyze the preferences of various job characteristics.Results: The response rate was 74%. Further educational opportunity was the most important job attribute for dentists in choosing their job. The order of preference for other job characteristics was: amenities at workplace, distance to workplace, private practice opportunity, and additional incentive. (p<0.01). Whereas, the job attribute CPD opportunity was not found statistically significant and has negative estimated coefficient. The ‘willingness-to-accept’ was found maximum (NRs. 144,000) for educational opportunity. (p/a). The preferences varied with gender, location and respondent category.Conclusion: Job characteristics like further education opportunity and amenities at workplace should be given importance in creating job opportunities for dentists. The offering of preferred job attributes could be helpful in retaining the dental professionals in rural areas.Economic Journal of Development Issues Vol. 19 & 20 No. 1-2 (2015) Combined Issue, Page: 100-119
Contribution Analysis: Theoretical and Practical Challenges and Prospects for Evaluators
Authors: Budhwani Suman , McDavid James C.
Published: July 2017

Abstract: Contribution analysis (CA) is a theory-based approach that has become widely used in recent years to conduct defensible evaluations of interventions for which determining attribution using existing methodologies can be problematic. This critical review of the literature explores contribution analysis in detail, discussing its methods, the evolution in its epistemological underpinnings to establishing causality, and some methodological challenges that are presented when CA is applied in practice. The study highlights potential adaptations to CA that can improve rigour, and describes areas where further work can strengthen this useful evaluation approach.
Minimizing GPS Dependency for a Vehicle’s Trajectory Identification by Using Data from Smartphone Inertial Sensors and Onboard Diagnostics Device
Authors: Ahmed Umama , Sahin Olcay , Cetin Mecit
Published: July 2017

For the past few years, several studies have focused on identifying a vehicle’s trajectory with smartphone data. However, these studies predominantly used GPS coordinate information for that purpose. Considering the known limitations of GPS, such as connectivity issues at urban canyons and underpasses, low precision of localization, and high power consumption of smartphones while GPS is in use, this paper focuses on developing alternative methods for identifying a vehicle’s trajectory at an intersection with sensor data other than GPS to minimize GPS dependency. In particular, accelerometer and gyroscope data collected with smartphone inertial sensors and speed data collected with an onboard diagnostics device are used to develop algorithms for maneuver (i.e., left and right turns and through) and trip direction identification at an intersection. In addition, techniques for noise removal and orientation correction from raw inertial sensor data are described. The effectiveness of the method for trajectory identification is assessed with collected field data. Results demonstrate that the developed method is effective in identifying a vehicle’s trajectory at an intersection. Overall, this research shows the feasibility of using alternative sensor data for trajectory identification and thus eliminating the need for continuous GPS connectivity.
Quality Measure of Short-Duration Bicycle Counts
Authors: Beitel David , McNee Spencer , Miranda-Moreno Luis F.
Published: July 2017

The average annual daily bicyclists (AADB) measure is commonly used in research and practice as a metric for cycling studies, such as bike ridership analysis, infrastructure planning, and injury risk. It is estimated in one of two ways: by averaging the daily cyclist totals measured throughout the year with a long-term automated bicycle counter, or by using a long-term bicycle counter to extrapolate data from a short-term counting site. Unfortunately, extrapolation of a short-term bicycle counting site can produce inaccurate AADB estimates as a result of different error sources; the range of possible error is highly correlated to several characteristics of the short-term count, such as the counting period, flow intensity, and time of year. This paper proposes a simple method to estimate the quality of a short-term count through a single metric combining five factors associated with the count variation: duration, average demand, time of year, stability, and correlation with the reference count. The method is validated with the use of a relatively large data set of automated bicycle counts. The quality measure, with a range from 0 to 10, is negatively correlated with the absolute relative error (ARE) of the AADB estimation. Results show distinct ARE distributions for different quality measure classes. The average ARE for the lowest quality class is 13.5% compared with an average ARE of 3.0% for the highest quality class. The maximum ARE (95% confidence) is 35% for the lowest quality class compared with 7.5% for the highest quality class.
Up on The 606
Authors: Gobster Paul H. , Sachdeva Sonya , Lindsey Greg
Published: July 2017

The 606 is the world’s first multiuse elevated trail, extending for 2.7 mi (4.35 km) through diverse neighborhoods whose per capita of open space is one of the lowest in Chicago. The trail connects six ground-level parks and is managed for recreation, but it also serves as a cross-town transportation connector and was funded partially with transportation dollars. Managers sought information about trail use to maintain a safe and harmonious experience for users, to plan operations and maintenance, and to document the benefits of trail development. The use of The 606 was examined during the first 6 months of 2016, and on the basis of those results, its use for the entire year was projected. Automated traffic monitoring with active infrared counters followed procedures in the FHWA Traffic Monitoring Guide. Screenline calibration tests revealed relatively high rates of occlusion owing to user type and traffic volume, yielding an adjustment factor of 1.239. Most users were pedestrians, but proportions varied by day of the week and time of day. Average daily traffic volumes between January 1 and June 30 at counters near the east and west ends of the trail were 3,500 and 3,000, respectively, with peak daily traffic exceeding 10,000. A regression model using weekdays and weekends, location on the trail, and temperature variables explained 80% of the daily use variation. Model extrapolation with historical weather averages estimated annual traffic volumes at 1.46 million and 1.3 million for the two sites, and a combined total annual miles traveled of 3.7 million (5.95 million km). Management implications and future research directions are highlighted.
« Les barbares sont-ils à la porte ? »
Authors: Stévenot Anne
Published: July 2017

Cet article propose une analyse originale de la convergence ou non des modèles de capital-investissement. Si les perspectives historiques, économiques ou sociologiques classiques soutiennent l’idée d’un alignement sur le modèle de référence anglo-saxon pionnier et leader, les approches en termes de variété de formes de capitalisme justifient au contraire la persistance de différents modèles de capital-investissement. Ce travail identifie de nouveaux enjeux pour les investisseurs, les dirigeants d’entreprise, les pouvoirs publics et ouvre des pistes de recherche.
Approche comparative des modèles de gouvernance
Authors: Hirigoyen Gérard , Poulain-Rehm Thierry
Published: July 2017

La recherche1

Les auteurs remercient Vigeo pour la mise à disposition de sa base de données.

mène une analyse comparative internationale de la qualité de la gouvernance des entreprises. Elle cherche à montrer si l’appartenance à un modèle de gouvernance déterminé exerce une influence sur les scores de gouvernance des entreprises. L’étude s’appuie sur un échantillon de 434 sociétés cotées dont les scores ont été relevés sur la période 2010-2014. Les résultats mettent en relief une supériorité des entreprises anglo-saxonnes en matière de gouvernance d’entreprise, non seulement sur les entreprises d’Europe continentale mais aussi sur les sociétés asiatiques.
Predicting ischemic stroke after carotid artery stenting based on proximal calcification and the jellyfish sign
Authors: Ichinose Nobuhiko , Hama Seiji , Tsuji Toshio , Soh Zu , Hayashi Hideaki , Kiura Yoshihiro , Sakamoto Shigeyuki , Okazaki Takahito , Ishii Daizo , Shinagawa Katsuhiro , Kurisu Kaoru
Published: July 2017

OBJECTIVE

Carotid artery stenting (CAS) has been considered to prevent ischemic strokes caused by stenosis of the cervical carotid artery. The most common complication of CAS is new cerebral infarction. The authors have previously reported that the jellyfish sign—the rise and fall of the mobile component of the carotid plaque surface detected by carotid ultrasonography—suggests thinning and rupture of the fibrous cap over the unstable plaque content, such as the lipid-rich necrotic core or internal plaque hemorrhage. The authors’ aim in the present study was to evaluate the risk of a new ischemic lesion after CAS by using many risk factors including calcification (size and location) and the jellyfish sign.

METHODS

Eighty-six lesions (77 patients) were treated with CAS. The presence of ischemic stroke was determined using diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). Risk factors included calcification of the plaque (classified into 5 groups for size and 3 groups for location) and the jellyfish sign, among others. Multiple linear regression analysis (stepwise analysis and partial least squares [PLS] analysis) was conducted, followed by a machine learning analysis using an artificial neural network (ANN) based on the log-linearized gaussian mixture network (LLGMN). The additive effects of the jellyfish sign and calcification on ischemic stroke after CAS were examined using the Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by the Steel-Dwass test.

RESULTS

The stepwise analysis selected the jellyfish sign, proximal calcification (proximal Ca), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and patient age for the prediction model to predict new DWI lesions. The PLS analysis revealed the same top 3 variables (jellyfish sign, proximal Ca, and LDL cholesterol) according to the variable importance in projection scores. The ANN was then used, showing that these 3 variables remained. The accuracy of the ANN improved; areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves of the stepwise analysis, the PLS analysis, and the ANN were 0.719, 0.727, and 0.768, respectively. The combination of the jellyfish sign and proximal Ca indicates a significantly increased risk for ischemic stroke after CAS.

CONCLUSIONS

The jellyfish sign, proximal Ca, and LDL cholesterol were considered to be important predictors for new DWI lesions after CAS. These 3 factors can be easily determined during a standard clinical visit. Thus, these 3 variables—especially the jellyfish sign and proximal Ca—may be useful for reducing the ischemic stroke risk in patients with stenosis of the cervical carotid artery.
Surgical management of spinal osteoblastomas
Authors: Versteeg Anne L. , Dea Nicolas , Boriani Stefano , Varga Peter P. , Luzzati Alessandro , Fehlings Michael G. , Bilsky Mark H. , Rhines Laurence D. , Reynolds Jeremy J. , Dekutoski Mark. B. , Gokaslan Ziya L. , Germscheid Niccole M. , Fisher Charles G.
Published: July 2017

OBJECTIVE

Osteoblastoma is a rare primary benign bone tumor with a predilection for the spinal column. Although of benign origin, osteoblastomas tend to behave more aggressively clinically than other benign tumors. Because of the low incidence of osteoblastomas, evidence-based treatment guidelines and high-quality research are lacking, which has resulted in inconsistent treatment. The goal of this study was to determine whether application of the Enneking classification in the management of spinal osteoblastomas influences local recurrence and survival time.

METHODS

A multicenter database of patients who underwent surgical intervention for spinal osteoblastoma was developed by the AOSpine Knowledge Forum Tumor. Patient data pertaining to demographics, diagnosis, treatment, cross-sectional survival, and local recurrence were collected. Patients in 2 cohorts, based on the Enneking classification of the tumor (Enneking appropriate [EA] and Enneking inappropriate [EI]), were analyzed. If the final pathology margin matched the Enneking-recommended surgical margin, the tumor was classified as EA; if not, it was classified as EI.

RESULTS

A total of 102 patients diagnosed with a spinal osteoblastoma were identified between November 1991 and June 2012. Twenty-nine patients were omitted from the analysis because of short follow-up time, incomplete survival data, or invalid staging, which left 73 patients for the final analysis. Thirteen (18%) patients suffered a local recurrence, and 6 (8%) patients died during the study period. Local recurrence was strongly associated with mortality (relative risk 9.2; p = 0.008). When adjusted for Enneking appropriateness, this result was not altered significantly. No significant differences were found between the EA and EI groups in regard to local recurrence and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

In this evaluation of the largest multicenter cohort of spinal osteoblastomas, local recurrence was found to be strongly associated with mortality. Application of the Enneking classification as a treatment guide for preventing local recurrence was not validated.
Open thoracic anterolateral cordotomy for pain relief in children: report of 2 cases
Authors: Steel Dora , Kirkman Matthew A. , Thompson Dominic N. P. , Aquilina Kristian
Published: July 2017

Open anterolateral cordotomy is an effective treatment option for adults with intractable pain, but it has seldom been attempted in children. In the 2 previously reported cases in children, the procedure was used within 10 days of death from neoplastic disease. In this paper the authors describe 2 cases in which open cordotomy was used successfully in children outside the immediate terminal phase of disease. Both patients experienced effective analgesia with minimal adverse effects. The authors propose that consideration of cordotomy as an option for the management of intractable pain in children does not need to be delayed until death is imminent.
Ultrasound Assisted Extraction for the Recovery of Phenolic Compounds from Vegetable Sources
Authors: Medina-Torres Nelly , Ayora-Talavera Teresa , Espinosa-Andrews Hugo , Sánchez-Contreras Angeles , Pacheco Neith
Published: July 2017

Vegetable sources and agro-industrial residues represent an important source of phenolic compounds that are useful in a wide range of applications, especially those with biological activities. Conventional techniques of phytochemical extraction have been associated with a high consumption of organic solvents that limits the application of bioactive extracts, leading to the implementation of novel extraction technologies using mechanisms such as Ultrasound Assisted Extraction (UAE). In the present review, an analysis of the involved variables in the extraction yield of phenolic compounds through UAE is presented, highlighting the advantages of this technology based on the results obtained in various optimized studies. A comparison with other technologies and a proposal of its possible application for agro industrial residues as raw material of phenolic compounds is also indicated. Finally, it is concluded that UAE is a technology that is placed within the area of Sustainable Chemistry since it promotes the use of renewable raw materials through the extraction of phenolic compounds, implementing the substitution of organic solvents with solvents that do not present toxic effects, lowering the energy consumption when compared to conventional methods and minimizing process times and temperatures, which is useful for the extraction of thermo-labile compounds.
An Energy Demodulation Based Fiber Optic Sensing System for Landslide Early-Warning
Authors: Wang Xing , Shi Bin , Wei Guangqing , Chen Shenen
Published: July 2017

To help reduce the impact of geo-hazards, an innovative landslide early-warning technology based on an energy demodulation-based fiber optic sensing (FOS-LW for short) technology, is introduced in this paper. FOS-LW measures the energy change in a sensing fiber at the segment of micro-bending, which can be caused by landslide movements, and automatically raises an alarm as soon as the measured signal intensity in the fiber reaches a pre-set threshold. Based on the sensing of micro-bending losses in the fiber optics, a two-event sensing algorithm has been developed for the landslide early-warning. The feasibility of the FOS-LW technology is verified through laboratory simulation and field tests. The result shows that FOS-LW has some unique features—such as the graded alarm, real-time responses, remote monitoring, low cost and passive optical network—and can be applied in the early-warning of landslides.
Investigation of Catalytic Effects and Compositional Variations in Desorption Characteristics of LiNH2-nanoMgH2
Authors: Srinivasan Sesha , Demirocak Dervis , Goswami Yogi , Stefanakos Elias
Published: July 2017

LiNH2 and a pre-processed nanoMgH2 with 1:1 and 2:1 molar ratios were mechano-chemically milled in a high-energy planetary ball mill under inert atmosphere, and at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. Based on the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) experiments, 2LiNH2-nanoMgH2 demonstrated superior desorption characteristics when compared to the LiNH2-nanoMgH2. The TGA studies also revealed that doping 2LiNH2-nanoMgH2 base material with 2 wt. % nanoNi catalyst enhances the sorption kinetics at lower temperatures. Additional investigation of different catalysts showed improved reaction kinetics (weight percentage of H2 released per minute) of the order TiF3 > nanoNi > nanoTi > nanoCo > nanoFe > multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT), and reduction in the on-set decomposition temperatures of the order nanoCo > TiF3 > nanoTi > nanoFe > nanoNi > MWCNT for the base material 2LiNH2-nanoMgH2. Pristine and catalyst-doped 2LiNH2-nanoMgH2 samples were further probed by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopies, thermal programmed desorption and pressure-composition-temperature measurements to better understand the improved performance of the catalyst-doped samples, and the results are discussed.
An Improved Distribution Policy with a Maintenance Aspect for an Urban Logistic Problem
Authors: Ndhaief Nadia , Bistorin Olivier , Rezg Nidhal
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we present an improved distribution plan supporting an urban distribution center (UDC) to solve the last mile problem of urban freight. This is motivated by the need of UDCs to satisfy daily demand in time under a high service level in allocated urban areas. Moreover, these demands could not be satisfied in individual cases because the delivery rate can be less than daily demand and/or affected by random failure or maintenance actions of vehicles. The scope of our work is to focus on a UDC, which needs to satisfy demands in a finite horizon. To that end, we consider a distribution policy on two sequential plans, a distribution plan correlated to a maintenance plan using a subcontracting strategy with several potential urban distribution centers (UDCs) and performing preventive maintenance to ensure deliveries for their allocated urban area. The choice of subcontractor will depend on distance, environmental and availability criteria. In doing so, we define a mathematical model for searching the best distribution and maintenance plans using a subcontracting strategy. Moreover, we consider delay for the next periods with an expensive penalty. Finally, we present a numerical example illustrating the benefits of our approach.
Objective Identification of Trough Lines Using Gridded Wind Field Data
Authors: Huang Yan , Li Qian , Fan Yin , Dai Xi
Published: July 2017

An objective method was developed to analyze longwave and shortwave trough lines in wind field data using different methods, given that these trough lines were researched in different ways. Longwave trough lines were analyzed by locating the cyclonic center and filtering candidate trough points simultaneously; the candidate longwave trough points were then traced based on distance and angle conditions. Next, candidate shortwave trough points were determined based on angular deflection and vorticity data, which were clustered and fitted to a curve for extraction. This method was applied to wind field data from the National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) to analyze trough lines in East Asia and South Asia. The experimental results show that our method can effectively identify trough lines by comparing them with manual analysis results. The statistical results indicate that the method more precisely identifies longwave trough lines than shortwave trough lines, and that trough lines during the fall and winter are more accurately and effectively identified than those during the spring and summer.
Regulation of Autophagy through TORC1 and mTORC1
Authors: Noda Takeshi
Published: July 2017

Autophagy is an intracellular protein-degradation process that is conserved across eukaryotes including yeast and humans. Under nutrient starvation conditions, intracellular proteins are transported to lysosomes and vacuoles via membranous structures known as autophagosomes, and are degraded. The various steps of autophagy are regulated by the target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1/mTORC1). In this review, a history of this regulation and recent advances in such regulation both in yeast and mammals will be discussed. Recently, the mechanism of autophagy initiation in yeast has been deduced. The autophagy-related gene 13 (Atg13) and the unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 1 (Ulk1) are the most crucial substrates of TORC1 in autophagy, and by its dephosphorylation, autophagosome formation is initiated. Phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of Atg13 is regulated spatially inside the cell. Another TORC1-dependent regulation lies in the expression of autophagy genes and vacuolar/lysosomal hydrolases. Several transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulations are controlled by TORC1, which affects autophagy activity in yeast and mammals.
Multiple Sclerosis: Immunopathology and Treatment Update
Authors: Dargahi Narges , Katsara Maria , Tselios Theodore , Androutsou Maria-Eleni , De Courten Maximilian , Matsoukas John , Apostolopoulos Vasso
Published: July 2017

The treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) has changed over the last 20 years. All immunotherapeutic drugs target relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) and it still remains a medical challenge in MS to develop a treatment for progressive forms. The most common injectable disease-modifying therapies in RRMS include β-interferons 1a or 1b and glatiramer acetate. However, one of the major challenges of injectable disease-modifying therapies has been poor treatment adherence with approximately 50% of patients discontinuing the therapy within the first year. Herein, we go back to the basics to understand the immunopathophysiology of MS to gain insights in the development of new improved drug treatments. We present current disease-modifying therapies (interferons, glatiramer acetate, dimethyl fumarate, teriflunomide, fingolimod, mitoxantrone), humanized monoclonal antibodies (natalizumab, ofatumumab, ocrelizumab, alemtuzumab, daclizumab) and emerging immune modulating approaches (stem cells, DNA vaccines, nanoparticles, altered peptide ligands) for the treatment of MS.
Assays to Monitor Autophagy Progression in Cell Cultures
Authors: Orhon Idil , Reggiori Fulvio
Published: July 2017

The vast number of implications of autophagy in multiple areas of life sciences and medicine has attracted the interest of numerous scientists that aim to unveil the role of this process in specific physiological and pathological contexts. Cell cultures are one of the most frequently used experimental setup for the investigation of autophagy. As a result, it is essential to assess this highly regulated molecular pathway with efficient and reliable methods. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here, we present a review summarizing the most established assays used to monitor autophagy induction and progression in cell cultures, in order to guide researchers in the selection of the most optimal solution for their experimental setup and design.
Evaluating the Effect of Physics Schemes in WRF Simulations of Summer Rainfall in North West Iran
Authors: Zeyaeyan Sadegh , Fattahi Ebrahim , Ranjbar Abbas , Azadi Majid , Vazifedoust Majid
Published: July 2017

The numerical weather forecast model Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) has a range of applications because it offers multiple physical options, enabling the users to optimizing WRF for specific scales, geographical locations and applications. Summer rainfall cannot be predicted well in North West of Iran (NWI). Most of them are convective. Sometimes rainfall is heavy, so that it causes flash flood. In this research, some configurations of WRF were tested with four summer rainfall events in NWI to find the best configuration. Five cumulus, four planetary boundary layers (PBL) and two microphysical schemes were combined. Twenty-six different configurations (models) were implemented at two resolutions of 5 and 15 km for duration of 48 h. Four events, with over 20 mm convective daily rainfall total, were selected at NWI during summer season between 2010 and 2015. These events were tested by developing 26 unique models. Results were verified using several methods. The aim was to find the best results during the first 24 h. Although no single configuration can be introduced for all times, thresholds, and atmospheric system to provide reliable and accurate forecast, the best configuration for WRF can be identified. Kain-Fritsch (new Eta), Betts-Miller-Janjic, Modified Kain-Fritsch, Multi-scale Kain-Fritsch and newer Tiedtke cumulus schemes and Mellor-Yamada-Janjic, Shin-Hong ‘scale-aware’, Medium Range Forecast (MRF) and Yonsei University (YSU) Planetary Boundary Layer schemes and Kessler, WRF Single Moment 3 class simple ice (WSM3) microphysics schemes were selected. The result show that Cumulus schemes are the most sensitive and Microphysics schemes are the less sensitive. The comparison of 15 km and 5 km resolution simulations do not show obvious advantages in downscaling the results. Configuration with newer Tiedtke cumulus, Mellor-Yamada-Janjic PBL, WSM3 and Kessler microphysics schemes give the best results for the 5 and 15 km resolutions. The output image of models and statistical methods verification indexes show that WRF could not accurately simulate convective rainfall in the NWI in summer.
Using a Theory-Consistent CVAR Scenario to Test an Exchange Rate Model Based on Imperfect Knowledge
Authors: Juselius Katarina
Published: July 2017

A theory-consistent CVAR scenario describes a set of testable regularieties one should expect to see in the data if the basic assumptions of the theoretical model are empirically valid. Using this method, the paper demonstrates that all basic assumptions about the shock structure and steady-state behavior of an an imperfect knowledge based model for exchange rate determination can be formulated as testable hypotheses on common stochastic trends and cointegration. This model obtaines remarkable support for almost every testable hypothesis and is able to adequately account for the long persistent swings in the real exchange rate.
Efficiency Improved Load Sensing System—Reduction of System Inherent Pressure Losses
Authors: Siebert Jan , Wydra Marco , Geimer Marcus
Published: July 2017

Although more efficient than e.g., constant flow systems, hydraulic load sensing (LS) systems still have various losses, e.g., system inherent pressure losses (SIPL) due to throttling at pressure compensators. SIPL always occur whenever two or more actuators are in operation simultaneously at different pressure levels. This paper introduces a novel hydraulic LS system architecture with reduced SIPL. In the new circuit, each actuator section is automatically connected either to the tank or to a hydraulic accumulator in dependence of its individual and the systems load situation via an additional valve. When connected to the accumulator, the additional pressure potential in the return line increases the load on the actuator and thus reduces the pressure difference to be throttled at the pressure compensator. The new circuit was developed and analyzed in simulation. For this, the hydraulic simulation model of a hydraulic excavator was used. To validate the sub-models of both machine and new circuit, two separate test rigs were developed and used. Both valid sub-models then were combined to the model of the optimized system. The final simulation results showed, that under the applied conditions, the novel hydraulic circuit was able to decrease SIPL of the examined system by approximately 44% and thus increasing the machines’ total energy efficiency. With the successful completion of the project, the gathered knowledge will be used to further develop the proposed circuit and its components.
Response of Compacted Bentonites to Thermal and Thermo-Hydraulic Loadings at High Temperatures
Authors: Tripathy Snehasis , Thomas Hywel , Stratos Panagiotis
Published: July 2017

The final disposal of high-level nuclear waste in many countries is preferred to be in deep geological repositories. Compacted bentonites are proposed for use as the buffer surrounding the waste canisters which may be subjected to both thermal and hydraulic loadings. A significant increase in the temperature is anticipated within the buffer, particularly during the early phase of the repository lifetime. In this study, several non-isothermal and non-isothermal hydraulic tests were carried on compacted MX80 bentonite. Compacted bentonite specimens (water content = 15.2%, dry density = 1.65 Mg/m3) were subjected to a temperature of either 85 or 150 °C at one end, whereas the temperature at the opposite end was maintained at 25 °C. During the non-isothermal hydraulic tests, water was supplied from the opposite end of the heat source. The temperature and relative humidity were monitored along predetermined depths of the specimens. The profiles of water content, dry density, and degree of saturation were established after termination of the tests. The test results showed that thermal gradients caused redistribution of the water content, whereas thermo-hydraulic gradients caused both redistribution and an increase in the water content within compacted bentonites, both leading to development of axial stress of various magnitudes. The applied water injection pressures (5 and 600 kPa) and temperature gradients appeared to have very minimal impact on the magnitude of axial stress developed. The thickness of thermal insulation layer surrounding the testing devices was found to influence the temperature and relative humidity profiles thereby impacting the redistribution of water content within compacted bentonites. Under the influence of both the applied thermal and thermo-hydraulic gradients, the dry density of the bentonite specimens increased near the heat source, whereas it decreased at the opposite end. The test results emphasized the influence of elevated temperatures (up to 150 °C) on the thermo-hydro-mechanical response of compacted bentonites in the nuclear waste repository settings.
Place of Birth and Sleep Duration: Analysis of the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS)
Authors: Newsome Valerie , Seixas Azizi , Iwelunmor Juliet , Zizi Ferdinand , Kothare Sanjeev , Jean-Louis Girardin
Published: July 2017

While sleep disturbance has been related to a number of negative health outcomes, few studies have examined the relationship between place of birth and sleep duration among individuals living in the US. Data for 416,152 adult participants in the 2000–2013 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), who provided self-reported hours of sleep and place of birth were examined. Associations were explored between healthy sleep (7–8 h), referenced to unhealthy sleep (<7 or >8 h), and place of birth using multivariate logistic regression analysis. The mean age of the sample was 47.4 ± 0.03 years; 56% were female. Of the respondents, 61.5% reported experiencing healthy sleep, 81.5% reported being born in the US and 18.5% were foreign-born adults. Descriptive statistics revealed that Indian Subcontinent-born respondents (71.7%) were more likely to report healthy sleep compared to US-born respondents (OR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.37–1.71, p < 0.001), whereas African-born respondents (43.5%) were least likely to report healthy sleep (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.70–0.87, p < 0.001). These findings suggest that place of birth should be considered in the assessment of risk factors for unhealthy sleep.
Vulnerability Reduction Needed to Maintain Current Burdens of Heat-Related Mortality in a Changing Climate—Magnitude and Determinants
Authors: Åström Christofer , Åström Daniel , Andersson Camilla , Ebi Kristie , Forsberg Bertil
Published: July 2017

The health burden from heatwaves is expected to increase with rising global mean temperatures and more extreme heat events over the coming decades. Health-related effects from extreme heat are more common in elderly populations. The population of Europe is rapidly aging, which will increase the health effects of future temperatures. In this study, we estimate the magnitude of adaptation needed to lower vulnerability to heat in order to prevent an increase in heat-related deaths in the 2050s; this is the Adaptive Risk Reduction (ARR) needed. Temperature projections under Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 and RCP 8.5 from 18 climate models were coupled with gridded population data and exposure-response relationships from a European multi-city study on heat-related mortality. In the 2050s, the ARR for the general population is 53.5%, based on temperature projections under RCP 4.5. For the population above 65 years in Southern Europe, the ARR is projected to be 45.9% in a future with an unchanged climate and 74.7% with climate change under RCP 4.5. The ARRs were higher under RCP 8.5. Whichever emission scenario is followed or population projection assumed, Europe will need to adapt to a great degree to maintain heat-related mortality at present levels, which are themselves unacceptably high, posing an even greater challenge.
Health Impact of PM10, PM2.5 and Black Carbon Exposure Due to Different Source Sectors in Stockholm, Gothenburg and Umea, Sweden
Authors: Segersson David , Eneroth Kristina , Gidhagen Lars , Johansson Christer , Omstedt Gunnar , Nylén Anders Engström , Forsberg Bertil
Published: July 2017

The most important anthropogenic sources of primary particulate matter (PM) in ambient air in Europe are exhaust and non-exhaust emissions from road traffic and combustion of solid biomass. There is convincing evidence that PM, almost regardless of source, has detrimental health effects. An important issue in health impact assessments is what metric, indicator and exposure-response function to use for different types of PM. The aim of this study is to describe sectorial contributions to PM exposure and related premature mortality for three Swedish cities: Gothenburg, Stockholm and Umea. Exposure is calculated with high spatial resolution using atmospheric dispersion models. Attributed premature mortality is calculated separately for the main local sources and the contribution from long-range transport (LRT), applying different relative risks. In general, the main part of the exposure is due to LRT, while for black carbon, the local sources are equally or more important. The major part of the premature deaths is in our assessment related to local emissions, with road traffic and residential wood combustion having the largest impact. This emphasizes the importance to resolve within-city concentration gradients when assessing exposure. It also implies that control actions on local PM emissions have a strong potential in abatement strategies.