bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Хирургическое лечение перихилярной холангиокарциномы с инвазией в воротную вену
Authors: Коtenko О. G. , Popov А. О. , Grinenko А. V. , Gusev А. V. , Grigoryan М. S. , Fedorov D. А. , Коrshak А. А. , Оstapishen А. N. , Мinich А. А.
Published: March 2018

Вступление. Единственным радикальным методом лечения перихилярной холангиокарциномы является хирургический, позволяющий улучшить отдаленные результаты и показатели выживаемости пациентов. Особую сложность представляют ситуации с инвазией опухоли в воротную вену.
Цель. Изучение результатов хирургического лечения пациентов по поводу перихилярной холангиокарциномы с инвазией воротную в вену (ВВ).
Материалы и методы. С 2003 по 2017 г. в клинике обширная и расширенная резекция печени по поводу перихилярной холангиокарциномы произведена 153 больным.
Результаты. Для оценки характера поражения билиарного дерева использовали анатомическую классификацию перихилярной холангиокарциномы Bismuth-Corlette. У 66 (43%) больных резекция печени дополнена резекция ВВ с ее последующей реконструкцией. Показатели 1, 3- и 5-летней выживаемости после резекции ВВ составили соответственно 81,8, 40,9 и 31,8%.
Выводы. Агрессивная тактика хирургического лечения перихилярной холангиокарциномы обеспечивает максимальную радикальность, позволяет увеличить резектабельность при инвазии опухоли в ВВ с приемлемой летальностью и отдаленными показателями выживаемости.
Использование методов регенеративной медицины в комплексном лечении хронических язвенно-некротических осложнений при ишемии конечности
Authors: Kirimov V. I. , Dryuk N. F. , Barna I. Е. , Pustyntsev А. А.
Published: March 2018

Цель исследования: повышение эффективности лечения язвенно-некротических осложнений при ишемии нижних конечностей путем применения аутологичных клеточно-тканевых трансплантаций и факторов роста.
Материалы и методы исследования. Проведен анализ обследования и лечения 54 пациентов (2007 - 2016 гг.) с хроническими язвенно-некротическими осложнениями при ишемии нижних конечностей с нереконструктабельными поражениями артерий нижних конечностей.
Результаты. В сроки до 3 мес. клиническое улучшение достигнуто у 68% пациентов, значительное уменьшение интенсивности боли - у 85%, устранение болевого синдрома - у 15% пациентов. Дистанция ходьбы до появления боли увеличилась в среднем до 200 м. Опорную функцию нижних конечностей удалось сохранить в сроки до 3 мес. в основной группе - у 97%, в группе сравнения - у 70%; до 12 мес. - соответственно у 82,5 и 60%; до 36 мес. - у 75 и 40% пациентов.
Выводы. Методы регенеративной медицины доступны для внедрения в клиническую практику и являются эффективной альтернативой у больных с язвенно-некротическими осложнениями при ишемии нижних конечностей.
Порівняння вмісту біомаркерів запалення у пацієнтів при стенозі сонних артерій та вивчення його змін залежно від прогресування атеросклерозу та виникнення атеросклеротичних ускладнень
Authors: Коpolovets І. І. , Shtefanich P. , Berek P. , Gerteliova Z. , Boldizhar P. О. , Rusyn V. V.
Published: March 2018

Мета. Вивчити рівень гомоцистеїну та ліпопротеїн-асоційованої фосфоліпази А2 (Lp-PLA2) у пацієнтів при атеросклеротичному ураженні сонних артерій, оцінити його зв’язок з морфологічними змінами атеросклеротичної бляшки, ступенем стенозу та вираженістю симптомів захворювання.
Матеріали і методи. Проаналізовані зміни біомаркерів у 130 пацієнтів за симптомного та асимптомного перебігу стенозу сонних артерій залежно від його ступеня та структури атеросклеротичної бляшки.
Результати. Виявлене достовірне збільшення рівня Lp-PLА2 у пацієнтів за симптомного стенозу внутрішньої сонної артерії (ВСА) та за його асимптомного перебігу за наявності м’якої атеросклеротичної бляшки. Концентрація гомоцистеїну не залежала від структури атеросклеротичної бляшки.
Висновки. При порівнянні вмісту гомоцистеїну та Lp-PLA2 у пацієнтів при атеросклеротичному ураженні сонних артерій доведено, що вміст Lp-PLA2 є більш інформативним діагностичним критерієм для виявлення пацієнтів з можливим виникненням гострого порушення кровообігу головного мозку. Підвищення рівня Lp-PLA2 у пацієнтів при симптомному стенозі ВСА є свідченням нестабільності атеросклеротичної бляшки.
Третинний перитоніт як проблема абдомінальної хірургії
Authors: Fomin P. D. , Маtviychuk О. B.
Published: March 2018

Вступ. Результати лікування абдомінального сепсису (АС) незадовільні. Найтяжчою його формою є третинний перитоніт (ТП). Факторами, що обтяжують перебіг ТП, є прогресування антибіотикорезистентності, зменшення резервів антибактеріальної терапії, поліморбідність. Сьогодні немає дієвих шкал прогнозування перебігу ТП, що робить проблему однією з найгостріших в абдомінальній хірургії.
Мета. Опрацювати спосіб прогнозування перебігу ТП для покращання його діагностики й лікування.
Матеріали і методи. Проспективно обстежені 109 пацієнтів з приводу перитоніту. У 18,3% хворих на 3 - 12-ту добу виявлені ознаки ТП, від якого померли 90% хворих.
Результати. З використанням статистичного методу відібрані 19 найбільш прогностично значущих показників, інтегровані у шкалу прогнозування ризику виникнення ТП, що відзначалася високим ступенем точності, специфічності та чутливості.
Висновки.

ТП є найтяжчою формою АС.
Застосування запропонованої шкали дозволило з високою точністю прогнозувати ризик виникнення ТП.
Застосування шкали прогнозування ризику виникнення ТП сприяло ефективній діагностиці захворювання.
The effects of Triplochiton scleroxylon aqueous extracts on initial growth of some vegetable crops in Ghana
Authors: Abugre S.
Published: March 2018

The effect of Triplochiton scleroxylon (wawa) aqueousextracts were tested on the seeds of tomato (Lycopersicumesculentum), pepper (Capsicum annuum ) and garden egg (Solanummelongena ) in the pathology laboratory of the Forestry Research Institute of Ghana (FORIG). Aqueous extracts of T. scleroxylon leaves (L) and roots (R) were prepared at different concentrations of 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8% and applied to the seeds. The effects of these treatments were assessed in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 4 replications. The findings showed that all the vegetable crops were affected by the different concentrations of the leaf and roots aqueous extracts (P<0.05). Tukey-Kramer multiple comparison indicated that the inhibitory effect was positively correlated with concentration of the extracts. The higher extract concentrations (6%-8%) had stronger inhibitory effect whereas; in some cases the lower concentration (2%-4%) showed stimulatory effect during germination. The radicles were more susceptible to the effect of the extracts than the plumules. The germination of L.esculentum was highly inhibited in growth by 51.4% in both the leaf and root extracts. Similarly, C.annuum recorded the highest inhibitory effect on radicle length by 72.5% in the leaf extract whilst, the highest inhibitory effects in plumule was 44%. The overall results point to an allelopathic inhibitory effect of T. scleroxylon on the three vegetable crops.
PENYELESAIAN KERUGIAN DAERAH MELALUI PENYETORAN KE KAS NEGARA: SUATU KAJIAN HUKUM DOKTRINAL
Authors: Atmaja A.P. Edi
Published: March 2018

Kerugian daerah merupakan subsistem dari konsep kerugian negara yang berinduk dari konsep keuangan negara yang secara tegas termaktub dalam konstitusi. Selama ini penyelesaian kerugian daerah oleh pemerintah daerah dilakukan melalui penyetoran ke kas daerah, meskipun hal tersebut tidak secara tegas dinyatakan dalam peraturan perundangan. Menggunakan metode penelitian hukum doktrinal dan dengan memanfaatkan data sekunder, tulisan ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji diskursus penyelesaian kerugian daerah melalui penyetoran ke kas negara dalam konstruksi yuridis atas keuangan negara beserta turunannya. Kesimpulan yang diperoleh adalah belum terdapatnya norma yang tegas yang mengatur keharusan penyelesaian kerugian daerah melalui penyetoran ke kas daerah, sehingga diskursus penyelesaian kerugian daerah melalui penyetoran ke kas negara menjadi sah dan mungkin.
Berat Badan, Panjang Badan dan Faktor Genetik sebagai Prediktor Terjadinya Stunted pada Anak Sekolah
Authors: Leksananingsih Hetriana , Iskandar Slamet , Siswati Tri
Published: March 2018

Background: Riskesdas in 2013 showed that Yogyakarta (DIY) had a prevalence of stunted new kid in school is less than the national average, which is 14.9% (MOH, 2013). Stunted or short, is a linear growth retardation has been widely used as an indicator to measure the nutritional status of individuals and community groups. Stunted can be influenced by several factors: birth weight, birth length match and genetic factors.

Objective: To determine the weight, length of low birth weight and genetic factors as predictors of the occurrence of stunted on elementary school children.

Methods: The study was a case control analytic. Research sites in SD Muhammadiyah Ngijon 1 Subdistrict Moyudan. The study was conducted in May and June 2015. The subjects were school children grade 1 to grade 5 the number of cases as many as 47 children and 94 control children. With the inclusion criteria of research subjects willing to become respondents, was present at the time of the study, they have a father and mother, and exclusion criteria have no data BB and PB birth, can not stand upright. The research variables are BBL, PBL, genetic factors and TB / U at this time. Data were analyzed by chi-square test and Odd Ratio (OR) calculation. Results: In case group as much as 91.5% of normal birth weight and length of 80.9% of normal birth weight, most of the height of a normal mother and father as many as 85.1%. In the control group as much as 78.7% of normal birth weight and 61.7% were born normal body length, height mostly normal mom and dad that 96.7% of women and 90.4% normal normal father. Statistical test result is no significant correlation between height mothers with stunted incidence in school children, and the results of chi-square test P =

0.026 with value Odd Ratio (OR) of 3.9 and a range of values from 1.091 to 14.214 Cl95%.

Conclusion: High maternal body of mothers can be used as predictors of the occurrence of stunted school children and mothers with stunted nutritional status have 3.9 times the risk of having children with stunted nutritional status.
Modifikasi Resep Brownis Untuk Makanan Selingan Penderita Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Setyowati Setyowati
Published: March 2018

Background: The nutritional therapy management of diabetes mellitus patient lies in the proper diet and food selection arrangement. There is an eating recomendation (3 times for main food and 3 times of snackfood) that needed to be noted. One of the snack food that been allowed is brownie, as baked product and cake category. Modification on brownie recipe are needed to improve quality of the food.

Objective: To understand a brownie recipe as snack food for diabetes mellitus patient based on physical quality, organoleptic quality,

nutritional value and fiber content.

Methods: The type of this research is an artificial experiment. The variables were modified brownie recipes; physical quality; organoleptic quality to colour, flavor, aroma, and texture; nutritional value, and fiber content. The subject of the study are 36 people with diabetes and 17 expert panelists. The object of this research is 3 kinds of brownie (red bean brownie, green bean brownie and peanut brownie). This research is conducted at Poltekkes Kemenkes Yogyakarta and Prolanis Organization in Puskemas Gamping 1 area, Sleman, Yogyakarta on February-September 2016. The data analysis of this research is done descriptively and analytically. Results: There is 3 brownie as modification results (green bean brownie, red bean brownie and peanut brownie). Those brownie have physical traits such as darker brown in colour, little bit sweet, have nutty flour aroma and little bit soft as a texture. Based on organoleptic quality, peanut brownie is the most preferred brownie. Based on analysis of chemical nutrition and fiber. Brownies tahat qualify the diet of people with diabetes mellitus is peanut brownie. Peanut brownie also been accepted by diabetes mellitus patient. Conclusion: Peanut brownie as modification results choosen as snack food alternatives for diabetes mellitus patient.
As Seis Lições
Authors: Mises Ludwig Von
Published: March 2018

Resenha do Livro: As Seis Lições

Autor: Ludwig von Mises

ISBN: 978-85-62816-01-7
La Teoría Evolutiva de las Instituciones
Authors: Abreu Mariana Piaia
Published: March 2018

Resenha do livro - La Teoría Evolutiva de las Instituciones: La Perspectiva Austriaca

Autor: César Martínez Meseguer

ISBN: 978-84-7209-470-3
Administração de Marketing
Authors: Lana Diego
Published: March 2018

Resenha do Livro: Adminstração de Marketing

Autores: Philip Kotler e Kevin L. Keller

ISBN: 978-8-58-143000-3
paradiplomacy of subnational governments in North America
Authors: Zepeda Martínez Roberto
Published: March 2018

Objective: to determine the factors that have contributed to the expansion in the international activities of the subnational actors and to identify the issues that prevail in the relations between the Canadian provinces and the subnational states of North America. Likewise, to identify the strategies and mechanisms that favor the relationships between these subnational governments.

Methodology: the qualitative methodological strategy comprises of two dimensions: the first focuses on the factors which explain these dynamics and on the conceptual revision to refer to the transnational activities of subnational governments in North America, in particular the paradiplomacy. The second one examines official information, reports and publications from national and subnational governments in the region. Subsequently, the international activities of these governments were examined to determine their nature, characteristics and objectives.

Results: it was highlighted that the international activities of subnational governments are linked to economic development and to issues such as the environment, natural resources, sustainable development, security, culture, education, science and technology. They are carried out through institutional deliberation and decision-making forums, international offices and cooperation agreements.

Conclusions: subnational governments contribute to the governance of North America, through the formulation of regional public policies to face common challenges. The agreements are limited in the areas of jurisdiction of the subnational governments and, at the same time, they show/disclose a certain degree of autonomy with respect to the central government.
Vergi Adaleti Açısından Türkiye’de Ücret Gelirlerinin Vergilendirilmesi
Authors: BAY Hakan , İNNECİ Ahmet
Published: March 2018

Türk vergi sisteminde ücret
gelirleri vergilendirilirken bazı mükellef gruplarının farklı usullerde
vergilendirildiği ve bu sebepten dolayı vergi adaletini zedeleyen bir takım
uygulamalar ortaya çıktığı gözlemlenmektedir. Ücret gelirlerinin
vergilendirilmesi genel olarak stopaj (kaynakta kesinti) yoluyla yapıldığından,
bu durumun da vergi adaleti açısından bir takım sorunlara neden olduğu
görülmektedir. Ücret gelirlerinin vergilendirilmesinde yıllık beyanın sınırlı
uygulama alanı bulması, safi gelire ulaşmada yararlanılabilecek indirimler
açısından ücretlileri diğer gelir unsurlarından kazanç ve irat elde edenler
karşısında dezavantajlı hale getirmektedir. Ayrıca ayırma prensibinin bir
gereği olarak ücretin sermaye kazançlarına nazaran daha düşük oranda
vergilendirilmesi gerekmektedir.
Vergi Cennetleri İle Mücadele Aracı Olarak : Şeffaflık “Oecd- Beps 5 Numaralı Eylem Planı (2015 Nihai Raporu) Temelinde Bir Çalışma”
Authors: ÇAMURCU Zeynep Nihan
Published: March 2018

Vergi cennetlerinin uluslararası suçların finansmanında kullanılması sorunu bir yana, bu ülkelerin vergiden kaçınma ve vergi kaçırma amaçlarıyla kullanılarak yüksek miktarlardaki fonların vergilendirme dışında bırakılması, devletlerin bütçe gelirlerinin azalması ve kamu harcamalarının kısıtlanması gibi birtakım olumsuz sonuçları beraberinde getirmiştir. Bu nedenle, "vergi cennetleri", dünya ekonomisi için çözülmesi gereken ciddî ve güncel bir sorun olmak giderek artan bir öneme sahiptir. Vergi cennetlerinin gelişimi; 1998’de Ekonomik Kalkınma ve İşbirliği Örgütü  tarafından başlatılan “vergiden kaçınma/haksız vergi rekabeti” ile savaşta yeni bir dalganın gelişine -özellikle küresel finansal krizin ardından- neden olmuştur. Bu ikinci dalga Ekonomik Kalkınma ve İşbirliği Örgütü  tarafından “şeffaflık” olarak adlandırılmıştır. Çalışmada “şeffaflık” BEPS (Base Erosion Profit Shifting: Matrah Aşındırma ve Kâr Aktarımı)- 5 nolu eylem planı (2015 nihai raporu) temelinde incelenmiştir.
Tuberculosis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Co-Infection: Clinico-Demographic Determinants at an Anti-Retroviral Therapy Center in Northern India
Authors: Giri Om Prakash , Giri Vishal Prakash , Vishwakarma Kirti , Datta Debranjan
Published: March 2018

Background: In India, Tuberculosis (TB) is endemic and Human immunodefi ciency virus (HIV) infection is epidemic in few states. The risk of developing TB in people living with HIV (PLHIV) is about 19 (27-22) times greater than those without it. TB is major cause of death in HIV-TB co-infected patients. Globally 0.4 million deaths occur annually due to HIV-TB disease.Material & Methods:The present observational study was conducted at Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital ART (Antiretroviral therapy) center during period from January to June 2017. Data of HIV-TB co-infected patients was collected from HIV-TB register and entered into Microsoft Excel sheet for analysis using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences.Results:Young persons mostly from the labouring class working in other states were most affected. Pulmonary tuberculosis (sputum smear positive) was most common co-infection. Baseline CD4 cell count at the time of presentation was observed to be low (less than 200 cells/μL) in 46.64℅ HIV-TB co-infected patients.Conclusion: Rural young people working as migrant labourer need focus of health interventions. They should be educated and screened for HIV and TB. Baseline CD4 cell count should be done in all PLHIV cases to assess their immune status.SAARC Journal of Tuberculosis, Lung Diseases and HIV/AIDS, Vol. 14, No. 2, 2017, Page: 12-17
An Epidemiological Study to Find out Risk Factors of Multi Drugs Resistance Tuberculosis in Nepal
Authors: Bichha R. P. , Jha K. K. , Salhotra V. S. , Weerakoon A. P. , Karki K. B. , Bichha Navneet
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Drug resistant tuberculosis is a threat to tuberculosis control worldwide. Previous anti- tuberculosis treatment is a widely reported risk factor for multi drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), whereas other risk factors are less well described. In Nepal National Tuberculosis Control Programme initiated DOTSPLUS Pilot project from September 2005 using standardized treatment regimen.Objective: To explore the risk factors for MDR-TB in Nepal.Methodology: Institution based matched case control study with a case: control ratio of 1:2 was carried out in three regions of Nepal. Fifty five cases and 110 controls were selected. Current MDR-TB patients on treatment from DOTS–Plus clinic were enrolled as cases. Controls were age, sex matched cured TB patients and who had completed treatment either from the same centre or any DOTS Centre adjacent to that DOTS Plus Centre. Data was collected by a trained research assistant using interviewer administered structured questionnaire. Matched analysis was done using SPSS 16 version. Confounding effects were controlled by using matching, matched analysis and regression analysis.Results: In matched analysis following were the significant risk factors for MDR-TB in Nepal.(1) HIV Sero positivity (OR 15.9, CI 1.9- 133.0) (2) Travel cost more than 50 NRs per day (OR 6.5, CI 2.4- 9.8) (3) Contact history of TB (OR 3.8, CI 2.2- 6.6) (4) Living in a nuclear family (OR 6.0, CI 2.6- 13.9)(5) Non adherence to DOTS (OR 18.6, CI 2.27- 151.0) (6) Distance to treatment centre more than 5 Km ( OR 3.9, CI 1.5- 10.) (7) Previous history of TB ( OR 12.0, CI 5.4 -26.5)(8) Living in a rural area (OR 4, CI 2.1- 8.5) (9) Unmarried (Crude OR 3.3,CI 1.6- 6.8) (10) Un-employment (OR 3.4,CI 1.6-7.6)(11) Living in a rented house (OR 3.5, CI 1.77- 3.67) (12) Single bed room (OR 2.8, CI 1.13- 6.9).  Using muti-variate analysis except living in a rented house and single bed room other variables were positive significant predictors for MDR –TB in Nepal.Conclusions: Many risk factors were related to the DOTS. Strengthening of DOTS programme to tackle the identified risk factors can reduce the MDR –TB burden in Nepal.SAARC Journal of Tuberculosis, Lung Diseases and HIV/AIDS, Vol. 14, No. 2, 2017, Page: 31-38
The Community of Those Who Do Not Exist: Communication among Monsters in the Films and Novels of Jean Rollin
Authors: Huling Ray
Published: March 2018

The films of Jean Rollin (1938–2010) are little known today, and his novels are all but completely ignored. With an erudite, aggressively scandalous style, both mediums present monstrosity as an ethical praxis, one deeply concerned with communication and community. This article explores these themes in Rollin's oeuvre, both cinematic and literary, by investigating the structure of Rollinien monstrosity as a brand of eroticism that engages the work of Georges Bataille. Rollin knew Bataille personally, read him deeply, and refers to him throughout his books and films. The communicative and communal practices of Rollin's monsters offer an application and a critique of Bataillian eroticism, with the aim of inculcating a taste for tumultuous and even violent moral revolt.
Food for Thoughts: Thinking through Cannibals and Plagiarists
Authors: Davis Roger
Published: March 2018

This article weirdly pairs the cannibal and the plagiarist as moral monsters – figures outside of conventional societal and legal categories – to argue that monstrous logic can offer potential correctives to common laws that otherwise demonize transgressive figures. An introduction to Mark Fisher's analysis of the “weird” will complement the tracing of the figure of Richard Parker throughout three literary texts and one historical text: Edgar Allan Poe's The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket, Yann Martel's Life of Pi, Mat Johnson's Pym, and A.W. Brian Simpson's Cannibalism and the Common Law. Demonstrating the familiar and repeated tropes associated with nautical survival cannibalism, or “the custom of the sea,” this article claims the economic and political motivations that often underlie travel narratives relegate any monstrous and humanist concerns to a secondary, lesser importance. The conclusion suggests that thinking through monstrous categories may offer alternative solutions to contemporary problems of conspicuous consumption, resource ownership and exhaustion, and environmental crisis.
Smartphone-assisted minimally invasive neurosurgery
Authors: Mandel Mauricio , Petito Carlo Emanuel , Tutihashi Rafael , Paiva Wellingson , Abramovicz Mandel Suzana , Gomes Pinto Fernando Campos , Ferreira de Andrade Almir , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen , Figueiredo Eberval Gadelha
Published: March 2018

OBJECTIVE

Advances in video and fiber optics since the 1990s have led to the development of several commercially available high-definition neuroendoscopes. This technological improvement, however, has been surpassed by the smartphone revolution. With the increasing integration of smartphone technology into medical care, the introduction of these high-quality computerized communication devices with built-in digital cameras offers new possibilities in neuroendoscopy. The aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of smartphone-endoscope integration in performing different types of minimally invasive neurosurgery.

METHODS

The authors present a new surgical tool that integrates a smartphone with an endoscope by use of a specially designed adapter, thus eliminating the need for the video system customarily used for endoscopy. The authors used this novel combined system to perform minimally invasive surgery on patients with various neuropathological disorders, including cavernomas, cerebral aneurysms, hydrocephalus, subdural hematomas, contusional hematomas, and spontaneous intracerebral hematomas.

RESULTS

The new endoscopic system featuring smartphone-endoscope integration was used by the authors in the minimally invasive surgical treatment of 42 patients. All procedures were successfully performed, and no complications related to the use of the new method were observed. The quality of the images obtained with the smartphone was high enough to provide adequate information to the neurosurgeons, as smartphone cameras can record images in high definition or 4K resolution. Moreover, because the smartphone screen moves along with the endoscope, surgical mobility was enhanced with the use of this method, facilitating more intuitive use. In fact, this increased mobility was identified as the greatest benefit of the use of the smartphone-endoscope system compared with the use of the neuroendoscope with the standard video set.

CONCLUSIONS

Minimally invasive approaches are the new frontier in neurosurgery, and technological innovation and integration are crucial to ongoing progress in the application of these techniques. The use of smartphones with endoscopes is a safe and efficient new method of performing endoscope-assisted neurosurgery that may increase surgeon mobility and reduce equipment costs.
Nature of Tau-Associated Neurodegeneration and the Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Yang Ying , Wang Jian-Zhi
Published: March 2018

Neurodegeneration is defined as the progressive loss of structure or function of the neurons. As the nature of degenerative cell loss is currently not clear, there is no specific molecular marker to measure neurodegeneration. Therefore, researchers have been using apoptotic markers to measure neurodegeneration. However, neurodegeneration is completely different from apoptosis by morphology and time course. Lacking specific molecular marker has been the major hindrance in research of neurodegenerative disorders. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder, and tau accumulation forming neurofibrillary tangles is a hallmark pathology in the AD brains, suggesting that tau must play a critical role in AD neurodegeneration. Here we review part of our published papers on tau-related studies, and share our thoughts on the nature of tau-associated neurodegeneration in AD.
Alzheimer’s Disease, Oligomers, and Inflammation
Authors: Forloni Gianluigi , Balducci Claudia
Published: March 2018

The production of soluble amyloid-β oligomers (AβOs) and the activation of inflammation are two important early steps in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The central role of oligomers as responsible for the neuronal dysfunction associated with the clinical features has been extended to the other protein misfolding disorders definable, on this basis, as oligomeropathies. In AD, recent evidence indicates that the mechanism of inflammation as a consequence of neurodegeneration must be assessed in favor of a more direct role of glial activation in the alteration of synaptic function. Our own experimental models demonstrate the efficacy of anti-inflammatory treatments in preventing the cognitive deficits induced acutely by AβOs applied directly in the brain. Moreover, some promising clinical tools are based on immunological activation reducing the presence of cerebral Aβ deposits. However, the strategies based on the control of inflammatory factors as well as the amyloid aggregation show poor or non-therapeutic efficacy. Numerous studies have examined inflammatory factors in biological fluids as possible markers of the neuroinflammation in AD. In some cases, altered levels of cytokines or other inflammatory markers in cerebrospinal fluid correlate with the severity of the disease. Here we propose, according to the precision medicine principles, innovative therapeutic approaches to AD based on the patient’s inflammatory profile/state. The earlier intervention and a multifactor approach are two other elements considered essential to improve the chances of effective therapy in AD.
Sweet Mitochondria: A Shortcut to Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Moreira Paula I.
Published: March 2018

A growing body of evidence supports a clear association between Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes and several mechanistic links have been revealed. This paper is mainly devoted to the discussion of the role of diabetes-associated mitochondrial defects in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. The research experience and views of the author on this subject will be highlighted.
Comparative effects of robotic-assisted gait training combined with conventional physical therapy on paretic hip joint stiffness and kinematics between subacute and chronic hemiparetic stroke
Authors: Park Ji-Ho , Shin Yong-Il , You Joshua (Sung) H. , Park Min Su
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND:

Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) has been proposed as a novel, promising intervention paradigm to improve gait function in subacute or chronic stroke neurorehabilitation. However, the benefits of RAGT combined with conventional physical therapy for gait recovery in patients with subacute and chronic hemiparetic stroke remain unclear.

OBJECTIVES:

The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of RAGT combine with conventional physical therapy on hip joint kinetics, kinematics, and clinical function characteristics between subacute and chronic hemiparetic stroke.

METHODS:

Seventeen patients with hemiparetic stroke (nine subacute and eight chronic patients) performed progressive RAGT (session 1, 40 min) combined with conventional physical therapy (session 1, 40 min) 5 days per week, for an average of 86 sessions over 8 weeks. The clinical outcomes included the Functional Ambulation Category (FAC), modified Rankin scale (mRS), Korean version of the modified Barthel index (K-MBI), and modified Ashworth scale, in addition to hip joint kinetics and kinematics before and after intervention.

RESULTS:

The mean change in active torque, resistive torque, and stiffness in the paretic hip joint did not differ significantly between the two groups. However, Cohen’s effect size suggested a moderate difference between the groups in the hip flexion phase (d = 0.58, d = 0.70, and d = 0.70). The mean change in maximal hip flexion kinematics in the chronic group was significantly greater than that in the subacute group ( p = 0.04, d = –0.70). The mean change in the clinical function test results between the groups was not statistically significant. However, both groups showed significantly improved FAC, mRS, and K-MBI scores.

CONCLUSIONS:

RAGT combine with conventional physical therapy may be useful when selecting therapeutic interventions to improve the active torque, resistive torque, and stiffness in the paretic hip flexion phase in patients with chronic hemiparetic stroke who reached a plateau in the maximum locomotor recovery after conventional locomotor training.
Evaluation of gait symmetry using a tri-axial accelerometer in stroke patients
Authors: Terui Yoshino , Suto Eriko , Konno Yohei , Kubota Kouun , Iwakura Masahiro , Satou Mizuki , Nitta Shioto , Hasegawa Kouichi , Satake Masahiro , Shioya Takanobu
Published: March 2018

OBJECTIVES:

The purpose of this study was to confirm the intra-rater reliability and absolute reliability of Lissajous Index (LI) in evaluating the symmetry of trunk movement during gait in patients with stroke and to examine the relation between LI and body function in patients with stroke.

METHODS:

Twenty-one healthy subjects (11 males and 10 females, age 63.3±2.0 yrs) and 45 patients with stroke (33 males and 12 females, age 58.7±13.4 yrs) were included in the study. The accelerometer was fixed to a belt at the level of the L3 spinous process. The 10-m walk test was performed twice to record definitive data on trunk acceleration. LI was calculated from trunk accelerations. We confirmed the intra-rater reliability and absolute reliability of LI in patients with stroke and we examined the relation between LI and body function in patients with stroke.

RESULTS:

There was no fixed bias and proportional bias in the LI of patients with stroke. It was found that BBS significantly correlated with LI in stroke patients ( p < 0.05, r = –0.413).

CONCLUSIONS:

It was clear that LI during gait was effective at evaluating gait symmetry and balance. LI was indicated to be useful in evaluating gait in patients with stroke.
How does strength training and balance training affect gait and fatigue in patients with Multiple Sclerosis? A study protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Callesen Jacob , Cattaneo Davide , Brincks John , Dalgas Ulrik
Published: March 2018

INTRODUCTION:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by a demyelination that results in reduced conductivity in the somatosensory nervous system, decreased muscle strength, vestibular alteration, and severe fatigue. Progressive resistance training (PRT) has proven to be a promising intervention showing a positive effect on muscle strength. Another promising intervention frequently used in neuro-rehabilitation is task specific training where also Balance and Motor Control Training (BMCT) are incorporated. Interestingly, the principles of BMCT do fundamentally contrast the principles of PRT in terms of variation in movement pattern, loading and repetitions. Consequently, knowledge of any diverse effect would be of clinical relevance.

AIM:

To evaluate the effects of PRT and BMCT on gait, balance and fatigue in persons with MS.

METHOD:

A three-armed multi-center, single-blinded cluster randomized controlled trial with two intervention groups (1. PRT of the lower extremities. 2. BMCT that challenges gait function) and a control group that receives usual care while on a waitlist for a combined PRT + BMCT intervention performed after the two interventions groups have completed their interventions. The interventions last ten weeks with two sessions per week, in groups of 3–6 participants. Number of participants is 30 per intervention – 90 in total. Primary outcome measures for gait function are the Timed 25 Foot Walk (T25FW) and the Six Spot Step Test (SSST). Secondary outcomes are fatigue, perceived gait function, temporo-spatial gait characteristics, balance and strength. Inclusion criteria are: EDSS 2–6, SSST >8 sec and T25FW >5 sec. Exclusion: Recent attacks and ongoing intensive rehabilitation.

ANALYSIS:

The effects in the three groups are examined in a mixed effects regression analysis with group and time as fixed effects and center and patient within center as random effects. Spearman or Pearson correlation analysis will be conducted on baseline data to determine associations between the primary outcomes on gait function and the secondary outcomes on fatigue, spatial gait parameters, balance and patient reported measures.

TRIAL REGISTRATION:

The study is approved by the Regional ethical committee and registered at clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02870023.
Effect of chin tuck against resistance exercise on patients with dysphagia following stroke: A randomized pilot study
Authors: Park Ji-Su , An Duk-Hyun , Oh Dong-Hwan , Chang Moon-Young
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND:

Recently, chin tuck against resistance exercise (CTAR) has been reported as a remedial treatment for pharyngeal dysphagia. However, the clinical evidence of the effect is still lacking.

OBJECTIVE:

This study investigated the effect of CTAR on the swallowing function in patients with dysphagia following subacute stroke.

METHODS:

The patients were randomly assigned to an experimental ( n = 11) or a control group ( n = 11). The experimental group performed CTAR using the CTAR device. The control group received only conventional dysphagia treatment. Both groups received training on five days a week, for four weeks. The swallowing function was measured using functional dysphagia scale (FDS) and penetration-aspiration scale (PAS), based on a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS).

RESULTS:

The experimental group showed more improvements in the oral cavity, laryngeal elevation/epiglottic closure, residue in valleculae, and residue in pyriform sinuses of FDS and PAS compared to the control group ( p < 0.05, all).

CONCLUSIONS:

This study demonstrated that CTAR is effective in improving the pharyngeal swallowing function in patients with dysphagia after stroke. Therefore, we recommend CTAR as a new remedial training alternative to HLE.
Vagus nerve stimulation paired with tactile training improved sensory function in a chronic stroke patient
Authors: Kilgard Michael P. , Rennaker Robert L. , Alexander Jen , Dawson Jesse
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND:

Recent studies indicate that vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) paired with rehabilitation can enhance neural plasticity in the primary sensory and motor cortices, improve forelimb function after stroke in animal models and improve motor function in patients with arm weakness after stroke.

OBJECTIVE:

To gain “first-in-man” experience of VNS paired with tactile training in a patient with severe sensory impairment after stroke.

METHODS:

During the long-term follow-up phase of a clinical trial of VNS paired with motor rehabilitation, a 71-year-old man who had made good motor recovery had ongoing severe sensory loss in his left hand and arm. He received VNS paired with tactile therapy in an attempt to improve his sensory function. During twenty 2-hour sessions, each passive and active tactile event was paired with a 0.5 second burst of 0.8 mA VNS. Sensory function was measured before, halfway through, and after this therapy.

RESULTS:

The patient did not report any side effects during or following VNS+Tactile therapy. Quantitative measures revealed lasting and clinically meaningful improvements in tactile threshold, proprioception, and stereognosis. After VNS+Tactile therapy, the patient was able to detect tactile stimulation to his affected hand that was eight times less intense, identify the joint position of his fingers in the affected hand three times more often, and identify everyday objects using his affected hand seven times more often, compared to baseline.

CONCLUSIONS:

Sensory function significantly improved in this man following VNS paired with tactile stimulation. This approach merits further study in controlled clinical trials.
Driving after brain injury: Does dual-task modality matter?
Authors: Vickers Kayci L. , Schultheis Maria T. , Manning Kevin J.
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND:

Virtual reality technology allows neuropsychologists to examine complex, real-world behaviors with high ecological validity and can provide an understanding of the impact of demanding dual-tasks on driving performance.

OBJECTIVE:

We hypothesized that a task imposing high cognitive and physical demands (coin-sorting) would result in the greatest reduction in driving maintenance performance.

METHODS:

Twenty participants with acquired brain injury and 28 healthy controls were included in the current study. All participants were licensed and drove regularly. Participants completed two standardized VRDS drives: (1) a baseline drive with no distractions, and (2) the same route with three, counterbalanced dual-tasks representing differing demands.

RESULTS:

A series of 3 (Task)×2 (Group) ANOVAs revealed that the ABI group tended to go slower than the HC group in the presence of a dual-task, F (1, 111) = 6.24, p = 0.01. Importantly, the ABI group also showed greater variability in speed, F (1, 110) = 10.97, p < 0.01, and lane position, F (1, 108) = 7.81, p < 0.01, an effect driven by dual-tasks with both a cognitive and motor demand.

CONCLUSIONS:

These results indicate that long-term driving difficulties following ABI are subtle and likely due to reduced cognitive resources.
The, K.M. A Study on the Relationship Between Matric Suction and the Void Ratio and Moisture Content of a Compacted Unsaturated Soil
Authors: Kieu Minh The , Mahler András
Published: March 2018

The volumetric behaviour of compacted unsaturated soils is particularly complex due to the co-existence of three different phases: solid, liquid and air. Matric suction has been perceived as a significant influence on the volumetric behaviour of unsaturated soils and has been used as one of the constitutive variables for most the constitutive models of unsaturated soils in the literature. However, suction-controlled works are complex in practice since they generally require special test procedures and advanced equipment, and usually are very time-consuming. Thus, some researchers have tried to seek alternative frameworks that use the traditional choice of state variables to simulate the behaviour of unsaturated soils. Recently, Kodikara [1] proposed the MPK framework to interpret the behaviour of compacted unsaturated soil in the void ratio (e) – net stress (p) – moisture ratio (ew ) space. The distinct advantage of the model is that it is based on traditional constant moisture content compaction testing which is more common and simple than constant suction loading. The MPK framework has been shown to be capable of presenting the volumetric behaviour of compacted unsaturated soils. However, this framework is expected to use not only for compacted soil but for the behaviour of unsaturated soil in general. The incorporation of soil suction within the MPK framework can be helpful for creating a correlation with previous models which used matric suction as a constitutive variable. This paper presents the development of LWSBS for one clayey soil in Hungary within the MPK framework and then suction is incorporated, which is related to void ratio and moisture ratio through SWCC.
Tunnel/Predictor Display for Trajectory Control in Hypersonic Flight
Authors: Moravszki Csaba , Rohács József , Sachs Gottfried
Published: March 2018

A tunnel/predictor display which presents guidance information in a 3-dimensional format is considered for improving trajectory control in hypersonic flight. The displayed 3-dimensional information comprises a tunnel image and a predictor for indicating the aircraft position at a specified time ahead. The 3-dimensional guidance information is introduced to support the pilot in controlling the flight path. It is considered that piloting problems can be avoided which exist with conventional trajectory control techniques due to path-attitude decoupling. A predictor control law is constructed which yields controlled element properties (predictor-aircraft system) requiring minimum pilot compensation. This predictor control law forms the basis of the trajectory control improvement goal. Results from hypersonic flight simulation tests at the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center are presented for experimental verification. This paper is an outcome of a joint research effort of the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center, and the Institute of Flight Mechanics and Flight Control of the Technische Universität München and the Department of Aeronautics, Naval Architecture and Railway Vehicles (former Department of Aircraft and Ships at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics.
Separation and evaluation of natural antileishmanial potential against Leishmania major and infuntum isolated from the Tunisia strains
Authors: Bouabdallah Salwa , Laouini Dhafer , Bouzouita Nabiha , El-Bok Safia , Sghaier Rabiaa M. , Selmi Sawssen , Attia Mossadok Ben
Published: March 2018

Besides its nutritional value as a dietary supplement, Tribulus terrestris is used as a remedy for fertility disorder in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine as well as by modern herbalists. The aim of this study was to explore the biological potential (antileishmanial effect) of an extract rich in saponins from Tunisian tribulus. The chloroform extract of the various parts of T. terrestris was subjected to partial purification by solvent partitioning with ethanol and n-butanol. All prepared extracts were tested for their anti-leishmanial activity. The result showed that n-butanolic extract (saponin fraction, when isolated from leaves part) exhibited the best antileishmanial effect against both pathogenic parasites Leshmania L. major (GlC94) and L. infuntum (LV50) evaluated in vitro assessment through MTT assay. n-Butanolic extract had been detected, quantified and purified using the RP-HPLC finger print (Hypersil ODS coupled to UV-vis). High peak area (5116.82 at 3.03 min) was detected at 205 nm.
Limited Seed and Seed Yield Response of Calendula to Applied Nitrogen Does Not Justify Risk of Environmental Damage from High Urea Application Rates
Authors: Johnson Jane , Gesch Russ , Barbour Nancy
Published: March 2018

Calendula (Calendula officinalis L.) seed, due to its high calendic acid content, is recognized as a potential environmentally safe substitute for volatile organic compounds. Agronomic guidelines for nitrogen (N) management to produce calendula seed oil on a commercial scale are limited. Post-harvest soil N has the potential to move off-farm and contribute to water quality degradation (e.g., hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico). Establishing N management guidelines should consider agronomic response and potential environmental risk. Calendula seed and oil yield, oil content, harvest index, N use, seed N use efficiency, oil N use efficiency, agronomic efficiency, vegetative growth, and the amount of residual soil-N following harvest response to five urea N rates (0, 34, 67, 134, and 202 kg N ha−1) were assessed in a replicated field study repeated for two growing seasons. Seed yield increased with N rate, but because of the low N conversion efficiency, there appeared to be minimal yield gains in applying N beyond 34 kg ha−1. The lowest amount of soil-N left underutilized in the soil was predicted to occur at 39 kg N ha−1 and was adequate for seed and seed oil commercial calendula production on a Mollisol in the Northern Midwest United States.
A 1064 nm Dispersive Raman Spectral Imaging System for Food Safety and Quality Evaluation
Authors: Chao Kuanglin , Dhakal Sagar , Qin Jianwei , Kim Moon , Peng Yankun
Published: March 2018

Raman spectral imaging is an effective method to analyze and evaluate the chemical composition and structure of a sample, and has many applications for food safety and quality research. This study developed a 1064 nm dispersive Raman spectral imaging system for surface and subsurface analysis of food samples. A 1064 nm laser module is used for sample excitation. A bifurcated optical fiber coupled with Raman probe is used to focus excitation laser on the sample and carry scattering signal to the spectrograph. A high throughput volume phase grating disperses the incoming Raman signal. A 512 pixels Indium-Gallium-Arsenide (InGaAs) detector receives the dispersed light signal. A motorized positioning table moves the sample in two-axis directions, accumulating hyperspectral image of the sample by the point-scan method. An interface software was developed in-house for parameterization, data acquisition, and data transfer. The system was spectrally calibrated using naphthalene and polystyrene. It has the Raman shift range of 142 to 1820 cm−1, the spectral resolution of 12 cm−1 at full width half maximum (FWHM). The spatial resolution of the system was evaluated using a standard resolution glass test chart. It has the spatial resolution of 0.1 mm. The application of the system was demonstrated by surface and subsurface detection of metanil yellow contamination in turmeric powder. Results indicate that the 1064 nm dispersive Raman spectral imaging system is a useful tool for food safety and quality evaluation.