bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENERAPAN TEKNOLOGI WEB UNTUK MEMBANGUN SISTEM LATIHAN UJIAN NASIONAL ONLINE BAGI SMA MUHAMMADIYAH 4 KARTASURA
Authors: Kunti Dwi Narwattu Jati, Unsta Nastiti Lingga Rastari Heru Supriyono, Anam Sutopo, Rahma Fitri Wahadati,
Published: February 2018

In 2015, Ministry of Education and Culture of Republic of Indonesia introduced online national examination systems for senior high school students to replace paper-based national examination systems. The problem faced by many schools are students are not ready to have a computer-based test because they do not have enough preparation. The root this problem is because scholls do not have an online examination systems for training their students. This paper discusses a development and application of online national examination preparation systems for SMA Muhammadiyah 4 Kartasura. The objective of the development is to provide a web based sistem which could be used for training students to face online national examination. The system was developed following system development life cycle (SDLC) principle with waterfall approach. The requirement analysis showed that the features of the systems needed by the school are involving randomizing mechanism for questions, test duration limitation, automatic marking systems, administrator functions and login systems for students and teachers. The national examination preparation systems was developed using PHP programming language dan MySQL database management systems. The result of the development is a web-based national examination preparation systems with complete features in accordance with requirement analysis. The questionaire analysis of system testing by the users involving teachers and students showed that 70% respondents feel satisfy with the developed systems.  Keywords: computer based test, online national examination, web-based test systems,
Asymptotic analysis of mean field games with small common noise
Authors: Ahuja Saran , Ren Weiluo , Yang Tzu-Wei
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we consider a mean field game (MFG) model perturbed by small common noise. Our goal is to give an approximation of the Nash equilibrium strategy of this game using a solution from the original no common noise MFG whose solution can be obtained through a coupled system of partial differential equations. We characterize the first order approximation via linear mean-field forward-backward stochastic differential equations whose solution is a centered Gaussian process with respect to the common noise. The first order approximate strategy can be described as follows: at time [Formula: see text], applying the original MFG optimal strategy for a sub game over [Formula: see text] with the initial being the current state and distribution. We then show that this strategy gives an approximate Nash equilibrium of order [Formula: see text].
Prediction and Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Dementia: Professional Disclosure Practices and Ethical Attitudes
Authors: Schweda Mark , Kögel Anna , Bartels Claudia , Wiltfang Jens , Schneider Anja , Schicktanz Silke
Published: February 2018

Background:

Biomarker-supported testing for preclinical and prodromal Alzheimer’s disease (AD) finds its way into clinical practice. Professional attitudes and practices regarding disclosure and ethical issues are controversial in many countries.

Objectives:

Against this background, the objective was to survey the actual practice and the attitudes of physicians in German hospitals and memory clinics in order to explore possible practical insecurities and ethical concerns.

Methods:

A detailed survey with 37 items was conducted among medical professionals at German hospitals and memory clinics ( n = 108). Analyses were performed using SPSS 21.0 (IBM). Findings were based on frequency and percentage distribution.

Results:

Nearly half of the respondents stated that persons with mild cognitive impairment and pathological cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers were informed they had or would soon develop AD. While 81% acknowledged a ‘right not to know’, 75% said that results were always communicated. A majority agreed there was a benefit of prediction or later life planning [end-of-life, financial, family, housing (73–75%)] but also expected high psychological stress (82%) and self-stigmatization (70%) for those tested.

Conclusions:

There is considerable heterogeneity and insecurity regarding prediction and early detection in the context of AD in Germany. Information of professionals and standardization of professional testing and disclosure practices are needed.
Subtle Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease-Type Pathological Changes in Cerebrospinal Fluid are Common Among Neurologically Healthy Subjects
Authors: Haapalinna Fanni , Kokki Merja , Jääskeläinen Olli , Hallikainen Merja , Helisalmi Seppo , Koivisto Anne , Kokki Hannu , Paajanen Teemu , Penttinen Janne , Pikkarainen Maria , Rautiainen Minna , Soininen Hilkka , Solje Eino , Remes Anne M. , Herukka Sanna-Kaisa
Published: February 2018

Background:

The neuropathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has previously been shown to be rather common among the elderly.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to inspect the associations between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) AD biomarker concentrations, age, the APOE ɛ 4 allele, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cognitive performance in a cohort of a neurologically healthy population.

Methods:

This study included 93 subjects (42 men, mean age 67 years) without previous neurological symptoms or subjective cognitive complaints. Their cognition was assessed, and CSF biomarkers and APOE ɛ 4 status were analyzed.

Results:

Of the studied subjects, 8.6% ( n = 8) had a pathological CSF AD biomarker profile. An increase in age correlated positively with CSF tau pathology and negatively with global cognitive performance.

Conclusion:

AD-type pathological changes in CSF and subtle cognitive impairment are common within a population with no previous memory complaints. Age was the main risk factor for the changes.
Risk of Conversion to Dementia in a Mild Behavioral Impairment Group Compared to a Psychiatric Group and to a Mild Cognitive Impairment Group
Authors: Taragano Fernando E. , Allegri Ricardo F. , Heisecke Silvina L. , Martelli María I. , Feldman Mónica L. , Sánchez Viviana , García Virginia A. , Tufro Graciela , Castro Diego M. , Leguizamón Patricio Perez , Guelar Verónica , Ruotolo Eva , Zegarra Cecilia , Dillon Carol
Published: February 2018

Background:

There is insufficient available information on behavioral changes in the absence of cognitive impairment as factors increasing the risk of conversion to dementia.

Objective:

To observe and analyze patients with mild behavioral impairment (MBI), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and a psychiatry group (PG) to compare the risk of progression to dementia.

Methods:

From 677 initially assessed ≥60-year-old patients, a series of 348 patients was studied for a five-year period until censoring or conversion to dementia: 96 with MBI, 87 with MCI, and 165 with general psychiatry disorders, including 4 subgroups: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis and Others. All patients were assessed with clinical, psychiatric, neurological, neuropsychological, and neuroimaging studies.

Results:

From 348 patients, 126 evolved to dementia (36.2%). Conversion was significantly higher in MBI (71.5%), followed by the MCI-MBI overlap (59.6%) and MCI (37.8%) groups, compared to PG (13.9%) (Log-rank p < 0.001). MCI patients mostly converted to Alzheimer’s dementia, while MBI converted to frontotemporal dementia and Lewy body dementia. Patients in PG converted to Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia.

Conclusion:

Conversion to dementia is significantly higher in patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms. The MBI concept generates a new milestone in the refining of diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases and the possibility of creating neuropsychiatric profiles. Its earlier identification will allow new possibilities for therapeutic intervention.
What Do We Know About Behavioral Crises in Dementia? A Systematic Review
Authors: Backhouse Tamara , Camino Julieta , Mioshi Eneida
Published: February 2018

Background:

Behavioral crises in dementia are represented by a wide variety of symptoms, regularly require external intervention from professionals, and are reported as a risk factor for hospital admission. Little is known about the factors that are associated with them.

Objective:

To determine the factors associated with dementia-related behavioral crises.

Methods:

We searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and AMED databases. An additional lateral search including reference lists was conducted. Two researchers screened all records for potential eligibility. Narrative synthesis was used to bring together the findings.

Results:

Out of the 5,544 records identified, 24 articles (18 distinct studies) met the eligibility criteria. Aggression and agitation were the most common behaviors present at crises. Delusions, wandering/absconding, and hallucinations were also key behaviors contributing to crises. Behavioral crises predominantly happened in the severe stages of dementia (according to MMSE scores), in people with dementia residing in their own homes and in long-term care, and were the catalyst for admissions to psychiatric inpatient settings, specialist-care units, long-term care settings, or for referrals to psychiatric community services. Lack of consistency in assessment of behavior, and management of agitation/aggression in dementia crises were evident.

Conclusion:

Interventions to reduce the likelihood of people with dementia-related behaviors reaching crisis point need to focus on both family and care home settings and incorporate aggression and agitation management. Future research should focus on determining the factors that could be addressed to prevent behavioral crises and the interventions and models of care that may help to prevent crises.
Overactive BRCA1 Affects Presenilin 1 in Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Neurons in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wezyk Michalina , Szybinska Aleksandra , Wojsiat Joanna , Szczerba Marcelina , Day Kelly , Ronnholm Harriet , Kele Malin , Berdynski Mariusz , Peplonska Beata , Fichna Jakub Piotr , Ilkowski Jan , Styczynska Maria , Barczak Anna , Zboch Marzena , Filipek-Gliszczynska Anna , Bojakowski Krzysztof , Skrzypczak Magdalena , Ginalski Krzysztof , Kabza Michal , Makalowska Izabela , Barcikowska-Kotowicz Maria , Wojda Urszula , Falk Anna , Zekanowski Cezary
Published: February 2018

The BRCA1 protein, one of the major players responsible for DNA damage response has recently been linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Using primary fibroblasts and neurons reprogrammed from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) derived from familial AD (FAD) patients, we studied the role of the BRCA1 protein underlying molecular neurodegeneration. By whole-transcriptome approach, we have found wide range of disturbances in cell cycle and DNA damage response in FAD fibroblasts. This was manifested by significantly increased content of BRCA1 phosphorylated on Ser1524 and abnormal ubiquitination and subcellular distribution of presenilin 1 (PS1). Accordingly, the iPSC-derived FAD neurons showed increased content of BRCA1(Ser1524) colocalized with degraded PS1, accompanied by an enhanced immunostaining pattern of amyloid-β. Finally, overactivation of BRCA1 was followed by an increased content of Cdc25C phosphorylated on Ser216, likely triggering cell cycle re-entry in FAD neurons. This study suggests that overactivated BRCA1 could both influence PS1 turnover leading to amyloid-β pathology and promote cell cycle re-entry-driven cell death of postmitotic neurons in AD.
Low Accuracy of Brief Cognitive Tests in Tracking Longitudinal Cognitive Decline in an Asian Elderly Cohort
Authors: Phua April Ka Sin , Hiu Shaun Kuan Wei , Goh Win King , Ikram Mohammad Kamran , Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy , Tan Boon Yeow , Chen Christopher Li-Hsian , Xu Xin
Published: February 2018

Background:

Researchers have questioned the utility of brief cognitive tests such as the Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) in serial administration and suggested that brief cognitive tests may not accurately track changes in Global Cognition.

Objective:

To examine the accuracy of longitudinal changes on brief cognitive tests in reflecting progression in Global Cognition measured using comprehensive neuropsychological assessments.

Methods:

Two hundred and seven participants were assessed with the MMSE, MoCA, and a validated comprehensive neuropsychological battery. Global z-scores on the battery were derived and used to assess overall and significant (≥0.5 standard deviation) decline on Global Cognition. Different patterns of decline on MMSE/MoCA were classified. Accuracy was examined using receiver operating characteristic curve, and sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values were reported.

Results:

The overall ability of MMSE/MoCA change scores to discriminate participants who did and did not decline on Global Cognition was fair-to-moderate (AUC [95% CI] = 0.71 [0.64–0.78] & 0.73 [0.66–0.80] for overall decline; 0.78 [0.70–0.85] & 0.80 [0.73–0.86] for significant decline, respectively). Changes in MMSE/MoCA had low accuracy in identifying significant Global Cognitive Decline (PPV = 0.41 & 0.46, respectively) but high accuracy in ruling out significant decline and identifying cognitively stable participants (NPV = 0.89 & 0.88, respectively).

Conclusion:

There is limited utility in brief cognitive tests for tracking cognitive decline. Instead, they should be used for identifying participants who remain cognitively stable on follow up. These results accentuate the importance of acknowledging the limitations of brief cognitive tests when assessing cognitive change.
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Vascular Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of High-Quality Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Xu Qing-qing , Shan Chun-shuo , Wang Yong , Shi Yi-hua , Zhang Qi-hao , Zheng Guo-qing
Published: February 2018

Background:

Vascular dementia (VaD) is the second common form of dementia and Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has been used for aging-related disorders for thousands of years. However, there is still a lack of scientific evidence using CHM for VaD.

Objective:

To conduct a systematic review to assess the current evidence available for the effectiveness and safety of CHM for VaD.

Methods:

Six databases were searched for high-quality randomized-controlled clinical trials that met the requirements of at least 4 of the 7 domains of the Cochrane risk of bias tool from their inception to February 2017. RevMan 5.3 was applied for data analysis.

Results:

Forty studies with 42 comparisons and 3,572 individuals were included. The studies investigated the CHM versus placebo ( n = 4), CHM versus western conventional treatment (WCT) ( n = 36), and CHM plus WCT versus WCT ( n = 2). Meta-analysis showed that CHM for VaD could improve Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Activities of Daily Living, Hasegawa’s dementia scale, and clinical effective rate but had statistically similar effect based on Blessed Behavior Scale (BBS) outcome when compared with WCTs. When compared with placebo, CHMs were more beneficial in improving MMSE but showed no significant difference in BBS scores. CHM as adjuvant therapy exerted an additive anti-VaD benefit on MMSE scores. The participants of CHM group had fewer adverse events than that of the placebo group or WCT group.

Conclusion:

The findings of the present study support, at least to an extent, that CHM can be recommended for routine use for treatment of VaD.
Quantifying the Diagnostic Pathway for Patients with Cognitive Impairment: Real-World Data from Seven European and North American Countries
Authors: Ritchie Craig W. , Black Christopher M. , Khandker Rezaul K. , Wood Robert , Jones Eddie , Hu Xiaohan , Ambegaonkar Baishali M.
Published: February 2018

To ensure that patients with dementia and their caregivers receive appropriate treatment and support, early diagnosis is essential but remains challenging. Real-world data from a multi-national, cross-sectional survey of physicians and their patients were analyzed to quantify the diagnostic pathway for dementia, including a focus on severity of patients’ cognitive impairment (CI) at the time of symptom onset, referral and subsequent diagnosis. Data were collected for 7,620 patients with CI. Most patients saw a healthcare professional within 1 year of first symptoms and received a diagnosis within 3–7 months of initial consultation. However, only 20% of patients received a diagnosis before their disease progressed beyond the prodromal stage and 23.5% already had moderate CI at diagnosis. These findings show that the goal of identifying and diagnosing CI at the earliest stages of disease is, for many patients, not achieved. Efforts toward public awareness and proactive, earlier detection and intervention, must be maintained—indeed where possible invigorated.
Comparing the Electronic and Standard Versions of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment in an Outpatient Memory Disorders Clinic: A Validation Study
Authors: Berg Jody-Lynn , Durant January , Léger Gabriel C. , Cummings Jeffrey L. , Nasreddine Ziad , Miller Justin B.
Published: February 2018

The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) has become widely used as a brief test of cognitive function in patients with neurological disease. More convenient application of the MoCA might increase its use and enhance its utility. An electronic version of the MoCA has recently been developed. To establish validity of the electronic version (eMoCA), discrepancy scores, concordance correlation coefficients (CCC), and root mean squared differences (RMSD) were calculated between each administration method in a sample of 43 new adult patients presenting with primary memory complaints. The CCC was 0.84 and the RMSD was 2.27, with 76% of the sample having a difference score within 2 points. Overall, this study establishes adequate convergent validity between the MoCA and eMoCA among an adult population presenting with memory concerns.
Linking Atrial Fibrillation with Alzheimer’s Disease: Epidemiological, Pathological, and Mechanistic Evidence
Authors: Ihara Masafumi , Washida Kazuo
Published: February 2018

Many studies have shown a relationship between atrial fibrillation (AF) and vascular dementia. AF is a major risk factor for stroke, and stroke is the greatest risk factor for vascular dementia. However, the relationship between Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the leading cause of dementia, and AF remains unclear. At least four epidemiological studies have reported AF significantly raises the risk of AD 1.5- to 2.5-fold. Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion, resulting from persistent AF, could explain the link as hypoperfusion may mechanistically exacerbate amyloid-β (Aβ) neuropathology, such as senile plaques and amyloid angiopathy, by upregulating Aβ-producing enzymes and lowering Aβ clearance efficiency. In addition, hypoperfusion may exacerbate tau pathology directly through upregulation of tau-phosphorylating enzymes and indirectly via the amyloid cascade. However, most neuropathological studies do not support the direct link between AD pathology and AF but rather suggests vascular neuropathology is related to, or coexistent with, AF and lowers the threshold for clinically-evident AD. Vascular neuropathology may thus mediate the link between AD and AF. From a treatment perspective, an observational study has shown that catheter ablation is associated with less incidence of AD in AF patients, suggesting rhythm-control suppresses hypoperfusion-induced AD neuropathology. In addition, rate-control may lower the rate of cognitive decline in cognitively impaired elderly subjects with AF. Further studies are warranted to clarify the mechanisms underlying the linkage between AF and AD. However, anticoagulation and rhythm-/rate-control against AF may hold promise even for AD patients.
Effects of Gender and Other Confounding Factors on Leptin Concentrations in Alzheimer’s Disease: Evidence from the Combined Analysis of 27 Case-Control Studies
Authors: Zhou Futao , Chen Shuangrong
Published: February 2018

Leptin, as a link between fat mass and the brain, has been reported to be associated with gender. The gender differences in leptin levels between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and healthy elderly controls are inconclusive so far. To quantitatively summarize the leptin data available from female and male patients with AD, we searched PubMed and EMBASE for articles published from inception to July 20, 2017. Data were extracted from 27 studies, consisting of 3,014 participants. The pooled results showed that the overall leptin levels were lower in AD (Hedges’ g = –0.481; p = 0.002) than in controls, and the leptin levels in whole blood and serum were decreased with moderate and large effect sizes ( g = –0.677, –0.839; respectively; both of p-values <0.001) in AD compared with controls. In blood, there were significantly lower concentrations of leptin in female AD than in female controls ( g = –0.590; p = 0.014), but not in male case-control group ( g = –0.666; p = 0.067). Meta-regression analysis demonstrated that the decreased extent of leptin levels in AD paralleled the degree of the severity of dementia symptoms, as well as the alterations of body mass index ( p-values ≤0.002). The findings provide strong evidence that 1) the blood concentrations of leptin are lower in female AD patients than in female controls; and 2) the greater the severity of dementia symptoms, the greater the decreases in the blood leptin levels. But more future investigations on the blood leptin levels in male AD patients is warranted.
Expression Profiling of Cytokine, Cholinergic Markers, and Amyloid-β Deposition in the APPSWE/PS1dE9 Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology
Authors: Reale Marcella , D’Angelo Chiara , Costantini Erica , Di Nicola Marta , Yarla Nagnedra Sastry , Kamal Mohammad Amjad , Salvador Nieves , Perry George
Published: February 2018

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disease, is associated with dysfunction of the olfactory and the entorhinal cortex of the brain that control memory and cognitive functions and other daily activities. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, amyloid-β (Aβ), and the cholinergic system play vital roles in the pathophysiology of AD. However, the role of changes in cholinergic system components, Aβ accumulation, and cytokines in both the olfactory and entorhinal cortex is not known clearly.

Objective:

The present study is aimed to evaluate the changes of cholinergic system components, Aβ accumulation, and cytokines in both the olfactory bulb (OB) and entorhinal cortex (EC) of young and aged APPSWE/PS1dE9 transgenic (Tg) mice.

Methods:

We have explored the changes of cholinergic system components, Aβ accumulation, and expression profiling of cytokines in the OB and EC of aged APPswe transgenic mice and age-matched wild type mice using quantitative Real-Time PCR assays and immunohistochemistry techniques.

Results:

In aged Tg mice, a significant increase of expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and chemokine MCP1 ( p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.001, respectively) and a significant reduction of nAChRα4 ( p = 0.048) and AChE ( p = 0.023) was observed when compared with age-matched wild type mice. Higher levels of AChE and BuChE are expressed in OB and EC of the APPSWE/PS1dE9 of Tg mice. Aβ accumulation was observed in OB and EC of the APPSWE/PS1dE9 of Tg mice.

Conclusion:

The study demonstrates the expression profiling of pro-inflammatory cytokines and cholinergic markers as well as Aβ accumulation in OB and EC of the APPSWE/PS1dE9 Tg mice. Moreover, the study also demonstrated that the APPSWE/PS1dE9 Tg mice can be useful as a mouse model to understand the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines and cholinergic markers in pathophysiology of AD.
Study on Lubrication Performance of Journal Bearing with Multiple Texture Distributions
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhang Junhong , Lin Jiewei , Ma Liang
Published: February 2018

The lubrication performance of journal bearings with different sorts of uniformly distributed micro-spherical textures are studied in this paper. Geometries and dynamic models of journal bearings with pure concave/convex textures are developed. The validity of the proposed models is verified against the oil film pressure distribution from the literature. The effects of geometry parameters (the texture depth and the area density) on the load capacity and the friction coefficient of the bearing are analyzed and discussed. Results indicate that: the bearing load capacity is reduced by the concave spherical texture, but enhanced by the convex texture; both the concave and convex textures have a very slight influence on the friction coefficient. Aiming to further improve the bearing lubrication performance, a novel concave-convex composite texture is proposed and modelled. Results show that the composite texture can significantly improve both the load capacity and the friction coefficient, because the concave spherical segments among the convex ones protect the oil film from rupture near the main load region. The oil film region is expanded by the composite texture as well.
The CoAlCeO Mixed Oxide: An Alternative to Palladium-Based Catalysts for Total Oxidation of Industrial VOCs
Authors: Brunet Julien , Genty Eric , Barroo Cédric , Cazier Fabrice , Poupin Christophe , Siffert Stéphane , Thomas Diane , De Weireld Guy , Visart de Bocarmé Thierry , Cousin Renaud
Published: February 2018

Catalytic total oxidation is an effective technique for the treatment of industrial VOCs principally resulting from industrial processes using solvents, and usually containing mono-aromatics (BTEX) and oxygenated compounds (acetone, ethanol, butanone). The catalytic total oxidation of VOCs on noble metal materials is effective. However, the cost of catalysts is a main obstacle for the industrial application of these VOC removal processes. Therefore, the aim of this work is to propose an alternative material to palladium-based catalysts (which are suitable for VOCs’ total oxidation): a mixed oxide synthesized in the hydrotalcite way, namely CoAlCeO. This material was compared to four catalytic materials containing palladium, selected according to the literature: Pd/α-Al2O3, Pd/HY, Pd/CeO2 and Pd/γ­Al2O3. These materials have been studied for the total oxidation of toluene, butanone, and VOCs mixtures. Catalysts’ performances were compared, taking into account the oxidation byproducts emitted from the process. This work highlight that the CoAlCeO catalyst presents better efficiency than Pd-based materials for the total oxidation of a VOCs mixture.
Poiseuille Flow of a Non-Local Non-Newtonian Fluid with Wall Slip: A First Step in Modeling Cerebral Microaneurysms
Authors: Drapaca Corina S.
Published: February 2018

Cerebral aneurysms and microaneurysms are abnormal vascular dilatations with high risk of rupture. An aneurysmal rupture could cause permanent disability and even death. Finding and treating aneurysms before their rupture is very difficult since symptoms can be easily attributed mistakenly to other common brain diseases. Mathematical models could highlight possible mechanisms of aneurysmal development and suggest specialized biomarkers for aneurysms. Existing mathematical models of intracranial aneurysms focus on mechanical interactions between blood flow and arteries. However, these models cannot be applied to microaneurysms since the anatomy and physiology at the length scale of cerebral microcirculation are different. In this paper, we propose a mechanism for the formation of microaneurysms that involves the chemo-mechanical coupling of blood and endothelial and neuroglial cells. We model the blood as a non-local non-Newtonian incompressible fluid and solve analytically the Poiseuille flow of such a fluid through an axi-symmetric circular rigid and impermeable pipe in the presence of wall slip. The spatial derivatives of the proposed generalization of the rate of deformation tensor are expressed using Caputo fractional derivatives. The wall slip is represented by the classic Navier law and a generalization of this law involving fractional derivatives. Numerical simulations suggest that hypertension could contribute to microaneurysmal formation.
Developing a Remotely Sensed Drought Monitoring Indicator for Morocco
Authors: Bijaber Noureddine , El Hadani Driss , Saidi Mariam , Svoboda Mark , Wardlow Brian , Hain Christopher , Poulsen Calvin , Yessef Mohammed , Rochdi Atmane
Published: February 2018

Drought is one of the most serious climatic and natural disasters inflicting serious impacts on the socio-economy of Morocco, which is characterized both by low-average annual rainfall and high irregularity in the spatial distribution and timing of precipitation across the country. This work aims to develop a comprehensive and integrated method for drought monitoring based on remote sensing techniques. The main input parameters are derived monthly from satellite data at the national scale and are then combined to generate a composite drought index presenting different severity classes of drought. The input parameters are: Standardized Precipitation Index calculated from satellite-based precipitation data since 1981 (CHIRPS), anomalies in the day-night difference of Land Surface Temperature as a proxy for soil moisture, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index anomalies from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data and Evapotranspiration anomalies from surface energy balance modeling. All of these satellite-based indices are being used to monitor vegetation condition, rainfall and land surface temperature. The weighted combination of these input parameters into one composite indicator takes into account the importance of the rainfall-based parameter (SPI). The composite drought index maps were generated during the growing seasons going back to 2003. These maps have been compared to both the historical, in situ precipitation data across Morocco and with the historical yield data across different provinces with information being available since 2000. The maps are disseminated monthly to several main stakeholders’ groups including the Ministry of Agriculture and Department of Water in Morocco.
Modulation of Telomerase Activity in Cancer Cells by Dietary Compounds: A Review
Authors: Eitsuka Takahiro , Nakagawa Kiyotaka , Kato Shunji , Ito Junya , Otoki Yurika , Takasu Soo , Shimizu Naoki , Takahashi Takumi , Miyazawa Teruo
Published: February 2018

Telomerase is expressed in ~90% of human cancer cell lines and tumor specimens, whereas its enzymatic activity is not detectable in most human somatic cells, suggesting that telomerase represents a highly attractive target for selective cancer treatment. Accordingly, various classes of telomerase inhibitors have been screened and developed in recent years. We and other researchers have successfully found that some dietary compounds can modulate telomerase activity in cancer cells. Telomerase inhibitors derived from food are subdivided into two groups: one group directly blocks the enzymatic activity of telomerase (e.g., catechin and sulfoquinovosyldiacylglycerol), and the other downregulates the expression of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), the catalytic subunit of human telomerase, via signal transduction pathways (e.g., retinoic acid and tocotrienol). In contrast, a few dietary components, including genistein and glycated lipid, induce cellular telomerase activity in several types of cancer cells, suggesting that they may be involved in tumor progression. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the effects of dietary factors on telomerase regulation in cancer cells and discusses their molecular mechanisms of action.
Effectiveness of Interest Rate Policy of the Fed in Management of Subprime Mortgage Crisis
Authors: Gunay Samet , Georgievski Bojan
Published: February 2018

The federal funds rate is one of the most important monetary policy instruments of Federal Reserve Bank of America. In this study, we analyze the effectiveness of Fed interest rate policy on different markets in the period between 1976 and 2016 through Markov regime-switching regression analysis. Results indicate that Federal funds’ rate affects labor and housing markets with a few months’ lag. However, the influence of Federal funds rate on inflation rate is quite limited. It is most probable that Fed employs alternative monetary instruments to regulate inflation. The most interesting results are obtained in the domain of personal savings. The interaction of personal savings and Federal funds rate is significant during both expansion and recession regimes.
Review of Current Cell-Penetrating Antibody Developments for HIV-1 Therapy
Authors: Che Nordin Muhamad , Teow Sin-Yeang
Published: February 2018

The discovery of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in 1996 has significantly reduced the global mortality and morbidity caused by the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). However, the therapeutic strategy of HAART that targets multiple viral proteins may render off-target toxicity and more importantly results in drug-resistant escape mutants. These have been the main challenges for HAART and refinement of this therapeutic strategy is urgently needed. Antibody-mediated treatments are emerging therapeutic modalities for various diseases. Most therapeutic antibodies have been approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mainly for targeting cancers. Previous studies have also demonstrated the promising effect of therapeutic antibodies against HIV-1, but there are several limitations in this therapy, particularly when the viral targets are intracellular proteins. The conventional antibodies do not cross the cell membrane, hence, the pathogenic intracellular proteins cannot be targeted with this classical therapeutic approach. Over the years, the advancement of antibody engineering has permitted the therapeutic antibodies to comprehensively target both extra- and intra-cellular proteins in various infections and diseases. This review aims to update on the current progress in the development of antibody-based treatment against intracellular targets in HIV-1 infection. We also attempt to highlight the challenges and limitations in the development of antibody-based therapeutic modalities against HIV-1.
A Study on Heat-Transfer Characteristics by a Ground-Heating Method
Authors: Park Mincheol
Published: February 2018

The ground-heating method using the electric heating pipe improves many problems of the conventional soft-ground improvement method and the ground-heating method using fossil fuel. However, in order to use this method practically, it is necessary to experimentally verify the temperature change due to the discharge of water vapor, and also to compare the theoretical solution and numerical analysis for estimation of the temperature distribution. From the experimental result, the loss of heat energy due to the discharge of water vapor is very large. Because the linear heat-source model and numerical analysis cannot consider the heat-energy loss by water vapor, the temperature change is estimated to be large. Therefore, it is necessary to design the installation depth of the electric heating pipe to suppress the discharge of water vapor.
Uncovering the Motives and Experiences of Locally Sourced Volunteers at Two Events in Metropolitan Perth, Western Australia
Authors: Lamb David , Ogle Alfred
Published: February 2018

This study sought to venture beyond the scope of previous research by examining two 2016 events that incorporated elements of different event types. The material events—the ISPS Handa Perth International golf tournament and the Telstra Perth Fashion Festival—were large-scale
events with international stature and appeal. Both of those events present concomitant event characteristics: the golf tournament could be labeled as a sporting event and a community event or even a corporate event, while the fashion festival could be deemed as a community event and also a
form of cultural celebration or possibly a business event. Notwithstanding that the events are dissimilar in terms of function and goal, the authors assert that the common defining characteristic was that the event volunteer recruitment was geographically localized using local area bounded
recruitment drives. Consequently, those events were almost exclusively supported by Perth residents who identified the events as community events because of their considerable contribution. This study sought the opinions and perspectives of the volunteers of the two events with a specific
focus on volunteering motivation. This research is timely given the worrying trend of diminishing rates of event volunteering due to attrition in the volunteer base. The outcomes of this study will provide event managers involved in organizing community-based events, where the focus of recruitment
is on local volunteers, with more in-depth knowledge about the diversity of motivational factors brought about by the inherent heterogeneity in the volunteer base. Furthermore, insight is gained on the volunteer decision-making process and the factors volunteers take into consideration in
deciding to commit themselves to an event.
Magnetar Giant Flares in Multipolar Magnetic Fields. III. Multipolar Magnetic Field Structure Variations
Authors: Yao 姚 Guang-Rui 广瑞 , Huang 黄 Lei 磊 , Yu 余 Cong 聪 , Shen 沈 Zhi-Qiang 志强
Published: February 2018

We have analyzed the multipolar magnetic field structure variation at neutron star surface by means of the catastrophic eruption model and find that the variation of the geometry of multipolar fields on the magnetar surface could result in the catastrophic rearrangement of the magnetosphere, which provides certain physical mechanism for the outburst of giant flares. The magnetospheric model we adopted consists of two assumptions: (1) a helically twisted flux rope is suspended in an ideal force-free magnetosphere around the magnetar, and (2) a current sheet emerges during the flux rope evolution. Magnetic energy accumulates during the flux rope’s gradual evolution along with the variation of magnetar surface magnetic structure before the eruption. The two typical behaviors, either state transition or catastrophic escape, would take place once the flux rope loses equilibrium; thus, tremendous accumulated energy is radiated. We have investigated the equilibrium state of the flux rope and the energy release affected by different multipolar structures and find structures that could trigger violent eruption and provide the radiation approximately 0.5% of the total magnetic energy during the giant flare outburst. Our results provide certain multipolar structures of the neutron star’s magnetic field with an energy release percentage 0.42% in the state transition and 0.51% in the catastrophic escape case, which are sufficient for the previously reported energy release from SGR 1806–20 giant flares.
Posture enseignante et accompagnement du développement de l'autonomie d'apprentissage en centre de ressources de langues
Authors: Acker Pia
Published: February 2018

L'accompagnement humain est une question centrale de la réflexion sur les environnements d'apprentissage faisant appel au numérique ou non, notamment en termes de soutien au développement de l'autonomie des apprenants. L'autonomisation des apprenants constitue l'un des principaux objectifs pédagogiques des centres de ressources de langues (CRL) de l'université de Strasbourg, au même titre que le développement de compétences linguistiques. La recherche qui étaye cet article décrit la posture de 11 enseignants exerçant dans ces centres, étudiée sous l'angle de leur soutien au développement de l'autonomie d'apprentissage des étudiants. Leur posture déclarée (ce qu'ils disent de l'autonomie d'apprentissage) a été cernée au moyen d'un questionnaire ; leur posture incarnée (ce qu'ils font effectivement sur le terrain) a été appréhendée à travers l'explicitation de leur action par les enseignants eux-mêmes. Un codage ouvert des données – relevant des principes de la théorie ancrée (Corbin & Strauss, 1998) – a été effectué selon une méthode inter-juges négociée (Garrison et al., 2006). Si les études de cas ont permis de tracer des portraits singuliers, le croisement des données a permis de faire apparaître des caractéristiques communes qui ont abouti à une première caractérisation de la posture enseignante dans le contexte particulier des CRL de l'université de Strasbourg.
Synthesis of Symmetric Ethers Using Monocationic and Dicationic Acidic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Eglīte Ance , Pudnika Linda , Balode Marta Anda , Prikšāne Anda
Published: February 2018

A series of monocationic and dicationic -SO3H functionalized Brønsted acidic ionic liquids (BAILs) are synthesized using different amines int.al., N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine, 1-methylimidazole, pyridine and alkylating agents 1,3-propane- and 1,4-butanesultones. The Hammett acidity (H0) and thermal properties by TG-DSC techniques are investigated. These ionic liquids have been applied to catalyze the dehydration reaction of aliphatic long chain alcohols (1-heptanol, 1-octanol, 1-decanol) at 195 °C. The optimization of reaction conditions and use of dicationic ionic liquids allow to reach rather high yields of symmetric diheptyl ether and dioctyl ether. The reusability of ionic liquids is evaluated using monocationic [PyPS][HSO4], dicationic [TMEDAPS][HSO4] ionic liquids and 1-heptanol.
Production of Biodiesel and Triacetin by Interesterification of Rapeseed Oil
Authors: Māliņš Kristaps , Kampars Valdis , Kampare Ruta , Sustere Zane , Arenta Alina
Published: February 2018

Interesterification of vegetable oils is one of the methods which have been considered for biodiesel production. Average yield of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME)/triacetin (TA) containing product mixture obtained under developed optimal rapeseed oil (RO) interesterification reaction conditions reached 117.2%. Treatment of FAME/TA mixture with three different commercial ion exchange resins (Amberlyst-A26 (OH-), Amberlyst-15 (H+), Lewatit GF 202 (Na+)) and water was investigated to improve fuel properties or extract FAME and TA as two separate marketable products. Fuel properties of obtained product mixtures were relatively close to biodiesel obtained from RO by transesterification reaction with methanol. The highest influence on chemical composition of product mixture showed water as treatment agent. Water can be successfully used as extraction agent for separation of TA and other glycerol (G) acetates from fatty acid moiety containing compounds. Two separate product mixtures were obtained after treatment of FAME/TA containing mixture with water. G (~5 wt.%), DAG (~33 wt%) and TA (~61 wt.%) mixture extracted with water using developed method has high potential for application in different industrial areas. Rest of product mixture with high content of FAME (~77 wt.%) could be used as renewable fuel for diesel engine exploitation.
Stability Studies of Bioactive Compounds from Birch Outer Bark Ethanolic Extracts
Authors: Godiņa Daniela , Paze Aigars , Rizhikovs Janis , Stankus Kristaps , Virsis Inguss , Nakurte Ilva
Published: February 2018

The literature survey summarizes information about birch outer bark phytochemical composition and details major components: betulin, betulinic acid, lupeol and ursolic acid. In the practical part of research birch outer bark major component stability against chemical and physical degradation was tested; total phenolic content and the antiradical activity of the degraded and nondegraded ethanolic extracts was studied using UV/VIS spectroscopy; the phytochemical composition of the birch outer bark ethanolic extract was investigated by HPLC-TOF/MS. The study of stability experiments has been carried out, which found that birch outer bark ethanolic extract compounds can be exposed to thermal and humidity degradation as well as exposure to β radiation, as extractants do not decompose in these degradation conditions. Acid or base degradation and oxidative degradation lead to partial degradation of the extracts. This kind of study for birch outer bark extract is not described and will serve as a basis for determining the expiry date of the extract containing cosmetic products and food additives, the choice of the required product packaging and storage conditions.
Revealing the Inhibition Efficiencies of Artesunate and Rutin for Corrosion of Steel: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Gece Gökhan
Published: February 2018

Corrosion inhibition characteristics of artesunate and rutin on carbon steel in water has been studied using density functional theory (DFT). Quantum chemical parameters such as highest occupied molecular orbital energy (EHOMO), lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy (ELUMO), energy gap (ΔE), and global reactivity properties have been calculated at the B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) basis set. The results of theoretical calculations confirm the experimental findings on the superiority of rutin to protect the corrosion of steel in aqueous media compared to artesunate.
Hydration of Cement Minerals in a Hydraulic Dolomitic Binder
Authors: Kirilovica Inta , Vitina Inta , Lindina Lauma
Published: February 2018

Dolomitic Roman cement was a widely used binder for construction purposes during the late 19th/ early 20th century in territory of Latvia. Because of its hydraulic properties and fast setting it was especially favorable for the usage for the cast elements of Art Nouveau style facades. The production of the material was discontinued in the middle of the 20th century. Nevertheless, there is a need of compatible material for restoration purposes that is not currently commercially available. A compatible binder has been synthesized from mixture of dolomite flour and clay. The research gives an insight of the ongoing chemical processes during the hydration of the cement minerals in the binder. The influence of clay content in compositions and of firing temperature on the physico-chemical properties and mineralogical composition of obtained material is estimated.
Determination and Toxicology Studies of Quaternary Ammonium Salts in Solution after Organoclay Processing
Authors: Pals Matiss , Putna-Nimane Ieva , Kostjukovs Juris , Karasa Jūlija , Kostjukova Solvita , Nakurte Ilva
Published: February 2018

Organoclays have potential to be used as additives in various facade paints and other finishing materials. Such new innovative materials must be rigorously tested for them to have no impact on environment. Focus of this study was to develop HPLC – TOF/MS method for determining quaternary ammonium salts in various material washing solutions and to determine organoclay toxicity by performing acute toxicity test on Daphnia magna. From the obtained results, it was possible to conclude that organoclays can be safely used as additives in various materials with low or no impact on environment. We determined that organoclays are significantly less toxic then some quaternary ammonium salts on its own.
Studies on the Properties of Raw Flax and Hemp Fibres after Two Step Initial Treatment
Authors: Bernava Aina , Reihmane Skaidrite
Published: February 2018

The requirements regarding the properties of fibres are closely linked to their further application. The demands for garment and home textile considerably differ from requirements for fibres that are used for technical purposes. This paper presents the results on investigation of raw flax and hemp fibres after their initial treatment with two step method (cold or hot alkaline, enzyme treatment and bleaching as after-treatment). The properties of hemp and flax fibres are evaluated by colorimetric analysis, mechanical testing, and microscopy of the surface of fibres.
Direct cerebral revascularization: Extracranial-intracranial bypass
Authors: Thanapal Sengottuvel , Duvuru Shyam , Sae-Ngow Treepob , Kato Yoko , Takizawa Katsumi
Published: February 2018

In 1967, the first extracranial to intracranial (EC-IC) arterial anastomosis was performed. Since that time, EC-IC bypass surgery has become a widely accepted surgical treatment for patients with IC stenotic or occlusive atherosclerotic lesions. This article will discuss the history, indications, types, surgical methods, and complications of the EC-IC bypass.