bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE POWERSTMSTRAP MODIFIES HIP AND KNEE MOVEMENT DURING THE SINGLE LEG SQUAT AND THE SINGLE LEG STEP DOWN TASK
Authors: Greuel H , Jones RK , Herrington L , Anmin L
Published: November 2016

Previous research has shown that excessive hip internal rotation can lead to abnormal patellar maltracking and thereby to lower limb injuries, such as patellofemoral pain and non-contact ACL injuries. Researchers in the USA invented the PowersTMstrap to increase external rotation of the femur and to thereby stabilise the patellofemoral joint during leisure and sport activities. This study aimed to investigate whether the PowersTM strap influences knee and hip biomechanics during the single leg squat (SLS) and step down task (SDT), which are activities which involve excessive hip internal rotation, adduction and knee valgus. 17 healthy participants, 7 males and 10 females (age: 29±4 y, height: 1.72±0.07 m, mass: 65.4±8.7 kg) were required to perform the single leg squat and step down tasks during two conditions: without and with the PowersTMstrap. Three-dimensional analysis was conducted with ten Qualisys OQUS7 cameras and three AMTI force plates using a 6DoF biomechanical model.The normality was assessedusing the Shapiro-Wilk test. Paired sample t-tests were performed at the 95% confidence interval. The PowersTMstrap condition (red line) reduced hip internal rotation and knee internal rotation during the SLS (hip IR: p=0.000, knee IR: p=0.007) and the step down task (hip IR: p=0.000, knee IR: p=0.003). In addition, the PowersTMstrap increased the hip internal rotation moment (p=0.000) and knee adducting moment (p=0.000) during the SLS task. The PowersTMstrap decreased hip and knee internal rotation, decreased the knee valgus and increased the hip internal rotation moment as well as knee adducting moment. These results suggest that the PowersTMstrap might have a strong potential to improve abnormal hip motion during leisure activities and sports in patients with lower limb injuries. Thus, the PowersTMstrap should be further tested in subjects who suffer from lower limb malalignment to investigate the full potential of it and to enable an implementation for therapeutic use in future.
COMPARISON OF SELECTED MORPHOLOGICAL AND RHEOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF BLOOD IN A GROUP OF OLDER LONG DISTANCE RUNNERS AND UNTRAINED MEN
Authors: Kubica J , Szymura J , Więcek M , Maciejczyk M , Szyguła Z
Published: November 2016

The aim of the study was to compare morphological and rheological properties of blood of long distance runners and untrained men. The study was carried out on 20 healthy males of age about 60 years old: 10 long distance runners and 10 untrained men. There was no difference between compared groups in age, body height and body weight. Venous blood for rheological, morphological and fibrinogen analysis was sampled in the morning time. Comparison of trained men to untrained men showed higher mean values of erythrocyte elongation index at shear stress levels from 2.2 Pa to 60.0 Pa in trained men. We observed no differences in mean values of aggregation indices (AI, %), the half time (T1/2, s) and amplitude and total extent of aggregation (AMP, arbitrary units) between groups. In both groups mean differences of morphological parameters of blood were not statistically significant. In a group of long-distance runners the level of fibrinogen was lower than in a group of untrained men. The study revealed modulating effect of physical activity on haemorheological properties of blood.
INVESTIGATION OF THE REWARD VALUE OF EXERCISE IN COMPARISON WITH FOOD AND MONEY
Authors: Albelwi A. , Rogers R , Kubis HP
Published: November 2016

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of 4 weeks high intensity intermittent Taekwondo (TKD) training program on body composition, physical fitness and performance of South African TKD athletes of Zulu ancestry. Thirty four (n=34) active TKD athletes aged 20–26 y volunteered for this study. The athletes were divided into control and experimental groups. The control participants (10 males and 7 females) are holders of green or lower belts with provincial championship exposure. The experimental group (10 males and 7 females) had blue or senior belts that had provincial and international championships exposure. Both groups were subjected to 4 weeks of TKD and strength training. The experimental group was made to perform high intensity intermittent (85–95 % VO2max) training, while the control group performed interval TKD training of lower intensity (70–75 % VO2max). All experimental participants were pre- and post-tested parameters of body composition [body mass, body fat percentage (% BF), sum of 6 skinfolds (SS)], flexibility (sit & reach), leg power (standing broad jump), muscle strength and endurance (sit-ups and push-ups), agility (T-test), VO2max(20 m bleep test). Resting heart rate (RHR), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured. Data was analyzed using pairedt-test for independent samples and Z-score individual radar plots statistics for assessment of each athlete. After 4 weeks of training, athletes in the experimental group showed a reduction in body weight (p<0.05), BMI (p<0.001), SBP (p<0.05), RHR (p<0.05), SS (p<0.05), and fat % (p<0.001) and improvement (p<0.001) in flexibility, muscle strength, power, agility and VO2max. In male controls, fat % was decreased (p<0.05), flexibility and VO2maxwere increased (p<0.05). In female controls, only flexibility was improved (p<0.05). The findings of this study support the effectiveness of 4 weeks high intensity intermittent training in Taekwondo athletes of Zulu ancestry improves body composition, cardiorespiratory response and physical performance that could contribute to enhanced combat skills.
BIOMECHANICAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CASES WITH CECS AND ASYMPTOMATIC CONTROLS DURING WALKING AND MARCHING
Authors: Roberts A , Roscoe D , Hulse D , Bennett A , Dixon S
Published: November 2016

No primary research has been carried out to investigate the predisposing biomechanical and anthropometric factors for chronic exertional compartment syndrome. The aim of this study was to investigate the kinematic and kinetic differences in cases with chronic exertional compartment syndrome and controls. 20 males with symptoms of chronic exertional compartment syndrome of the anterior compartment and 20 male asymptomatic controls were studied. Anthropometry and three-dimensional kinematics and kinetics were compared during walking and marching. Bootstrapped t-tests were carried out on each individual normalised time point to identify regions within the gait cycle that were significantly different. Cases were shorter in stature and took a relatively longer stride in relation to leg length than controls. There were no differences in weight or height-to-leg length ratio. Kinematic differences were only identified at the ankle. Cases demonstrated increased ankle plantarflexion from mid-stance to toe-off. Cases also demonstrated less ankle inversion at the end of stance and early swing phases which coincided with the generation of lower ankle inversion moments. The anthropometric and biomechanical differences demonstrated provide a plausible mechanism for the development of chronic exertional compartment syndrome in this population. Shorter stature in combination with a relatively longer stride length may result in an increased demand on tibialis anterior during ambulation. The speed at which humans begin to transition to running is dependent on stature and is close to the marching speed in this study. Tibialis anterior is reported to be a key determinant of this speed. Many participants reported having previously experienced the urge to transition to a run in order to alleviate their pain. The results of this study, together with clinical insights and published research suggest that the suppression of the walk-to-run stimulus during military group marches may play a significant role in the development of chronic exertional compartment syndrome within a military population. The differences in joint angles and moments also indicate an impairment of the effectiveness of tibialis anterior. It is unclear whether this is a cause or consequence of chronic exertional compartment syndrome.
Exploring educational needs and design aspects of internet-enabled patient education for persons with diabetes: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Jafari Javad , Karimi Moonaghi Hosein , Zary Nabil , Masiello Italo
Published: November 2016

Objective

The objective of this article is to explore the educational needs and design aspects of personalised internet-enabled education for patients with diabetes in Iran.

Design

Data were collected using semistructured interviews and then qualitatively analysed using inductive content analysis.

Participants

9 patients with type 2 diabetes were included. Inclusion criteria were access to and knowledge on how to use the internet. The selection ensured representation based on gender, age, occupation and educational background.

Setting

The sample population was patients with diabetes who were admitted to an outpatient diabetes clinic in Mashhad, a large city of Iran with about 3 million inhabitants.

Results

4 core categories emerged from the data: (1) seeking knowledge about diabetes, including specific knowledge acquisition, patient's interactions and learning requirements; (2) teaching and learning, including using different teaching methods and different ways to learn about the disease; (3) facilitators, including internet and mobile phone use to learn about the disease; and (4) barriers, including lack of internet access, uncertainty of access to the internet and lack of website in the local language and also perceived cultural barriers, such as patients' fears of the internet, lack of time and awareness.

Conclusions

This study provides a better understanding of the patient's educational expectations and technical needs in relation to internet-enabled education. This knowledge will inform the development of functional mock-ups in the next research phase using a design-based research approach in order to design internet-enabled patient education for self-management of diabetes.
Angiopoietin-like protein 4 and cardiovascular function in COPD
Authors: Waschki B , Kirsten AM , Holz O , Meyer T , Lichtinghagen R , Rabe KF , Magnussen H , Welte T , Watz H , Janciauskiene S
Published: November 2016

Introduction

The coexistence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is frequent and might be inter-related through inflammation-related processes reflected by specific markers. Here, we studied angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4), an upcoming cardiovascular marker, in stable COPD, and its relationship to cardiovascular function with respect to well-known CVD risk factors.

Methods

In a prospective COPD cohort study, we investigated serum ANGPTL4 levels, vascular status (ankle–brachial index (ABI)) and cardiac function (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP)) as well as airflow limitation, objectively measured physical activity, the metabolic syndrome, high-sensitive C reactive protein (hs-CRP) and other CVD risk factors at 2 time points. We initially studied 74 stable COPD patients and 18 controls. For internal validation, we additionally studied 160 COPD patients of a former visit.

Results

ANGPTL4 was significantly elevated in COPD patients compared with controls (p=0.026). After correction for traditional CVD risk factors, including hs-CRP, higher levels of ANGPTL4 were independently associated with lower ABI (p=0.023) and higher NT-proBNP (p<0.001). These findings were confirmed in the internal validation analysis, which included echocardiographic assessments.

Conclusions

Serum ANGPTL4 is independently associated with cardiovascular function in COPD and might qualify as a biomarker reflecting a pathogenic link between COPD and CVD.
Research priorities of international sporting federations and the IOC research centres
Authors: Finch Caroline F , Talpey Scott , Bradshaw Ashley , Soligard Torbjorn , Engebretsen Lars
Published: November 2016

Background/aim

To be fully effective, the prevention of injury in sport and promotion of athlete's health needs to be both targeted and underpinned by scientific evidence. This study aimed to identify the research priorities of International Sporting Federation (ISFs) compared to the current research focus of the International Olympic Committee Research Centres (IOC-RCs).

Methods

Online survey of ISF Medical Chairpersons (n=22, 69% response) and IOC-RC Directors (n=7, 78% response). Open-ended responses relating to injury/illness priorities and specific athlete targets were thematically coded. Ratings were given of the need for different research types according to the Translating Research into Injury Prevention Practice (TRIPP) Framework stages. Results are presented as the frequency of ISFs and IOC-RCs separately.

Results

Both ISFs and IOC-RFs prioritised research into concussion (27%, 72%, respectively), competitive overuse (23%, 43%) and youth (41%, 43%). The ISFs also ranked catastrophic injuries (14%), environmental factors (18%), elite athletes (18%) and Paralympic athletes (14%) as important. The IOC-RCs gave higher priority to preventing respiratory illness (43%), long-term health consequences of injury (43%) and recreational athletes (43%). There was a trend towards ISFs valuing TRIPP stage 5/6 research more highly and for the IOC-RCs to value TRIPP stage 1/2 research.

Conclusions

There are clear opportunities to better link the priorities and actions of the ISFs and IOC-RCs, to ensure more effective practice-policy-research partnerships for the benefit of all athletes. Setting a mutually-agreed research agenda will require further active engagement between researchers and broader ISF representatives.
Against the accommodation of subjective healthcare provider beliefs in medicine: counteracting supporters of conscientious objector accommodation arguments
Authors: Smalling Ricardo , Schuklenk Udo
Published: November 2016

We respond in this paper to various counter arguments advanced against our stance on conscientious objection accommodation. Contra Maclure and Dumont, we show that it is impossible to develop reliable tests for conscientious objectors' claims with regard to the reasonableness of the ideological basis of their convictions, and, indeed, with regard to whether they actually hold they views they claim to hold. We demonstrate furthermore that, within the Canadian legal context, the refusal to accommodate conscientious objectors would not constitute undue hardship for such objectors. We reject concerns that refusing to accommodate conscientious objectors would limit the equality of opportunity for budding professionals holding particular ideological positions. We also clarify various misrepresentations of our views by respondents Symons, Glick and Jotkowitz, and Lyus.
Capturing the worlds of multiple sclerosis: Hannah Laycock's photography
Authors: Bolaki Stella
Published: November 2016

This essay explores UK photographer Hannah Laycock'sAwakeningsand, to a lesser extent,Perceiving Identitythat were created in 2015, following her diagnosis with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2013. It draws on scholarship by people with chronic illness while situating these two MS projects in the context of Laycock's earlier art and portrait photography dealing with fragility, image and desire, and power relations between subject and observer. The analysis illustrates how her evocative photography captures the lived or subjective experience of an invisible and often misunderstood condition by initially focusing on the tension between transparency and opacity in her work. It further shows how her images counter dominant didactic metaphors such as, ‘the body as machine’, that perpetuate the dehumanising and objectifying aspects of medical care. Subsequent sections trace the influence that Oliver Sacks has had on Laycock's practice, and reflect on other metaphors and tropes inAwakeningsthat illuminate the relationship between body and self in MS. The essay concludes by acknowledging the therapeutic power of art and calling upon health professionals to make more use of such artistic work in clinical practice.
Republished: Where did the clot go? An unusual complication of mechanical thrombectomy caused by malignancy related subclavian steal phenomenon in a patient with acute basilar artery occlusion
Authors: Randhawa Nikkie , Squires Jonathan P , Heran Manraj Kanwal Singh , Mann Sharanpal K
Published: November 2016

Subclavian steal is a relatively common vascular phenomenon usually caused by atherosclerotic disease. While symptoms are rare, arm claudication of the ipsilateral limb is most common, with paroxysmal symptoms of vertebrobasilar insufficiency (often exercise induced) being relatively uncommon. Here we present a case of brachial artery embolism during mechanical thrombectomy for basilar artery thrombosis, secondary to subclavian steal phenomenon. This atypical and potentially irreversible complication should be considered in patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing neurointerventional management when subclavian steal is discovered angiographically.
Synthesis and physical properties of [4]cyclo-3,7-dibenzo[b,d]thiophene and its S,S-dioxide
Authors: Kayahara Eiichi , Zhai Xue , Yamago Shigeru
Published: November 2016

Cyclic tetramers of 3,7-dibenzo[b,d]thiophene (DBT) and 3,7-dibenzo[b,d]thiophene-5,5-dioxide (DBTO), i.e., [4]cyclo-DBT ([4]CDBT) and [4]cyclo-DBTO ([4]CDBTO), respectively, are synthesized by the platinum-mediated assembly of bis-metallated DBT and DBTO and the subsequent reductive elimination of platinum. This is the first example of the synthesis of sulfur-containing cycloparaphenylene (CPP) derivatives. The structure of [4]CDBTO is unambiguously determined by the single crystal X-ray analysis. Theoretical and experimental analyses of their physical properties reveal the effect of the sulfur atom and sulfonyl group at the periphery of biphenyl units of the CPP.
Bianchi type-V modified holographic Ricci dark energy models in Saez–Ballester theory of gravitation
Authors: Reddy D.R.K.
Published: November 2016

We have investigated Bianchi type-V universe filled with matter and modified holographic Ricci dark energy in a scalar–tensor theory proposed by Saez–Ballester (Phys. Lett. A, 113, 467 (1986)). To get a determinate solution, we have used (i) hybrid expansion law (Akarsu et al. JCAP, 01, 022 (2014)), (ii) varying deceleration parameter (Mishra et al. Int. J. Theor. Phys. 52, 2546 (2013)), and (iii) linearly varying deceleration parameter (Akarsu and Dereli. Int. J. Theor. Phys. 51, 612 (2012)). The various physical and geometrical aspects of the models are also discussed.
Kantowski–Sachs scalar field cosmological models in a modified theory of gravity
Authors: Santhi M. Vijaya , Rao V.U.M. , Aditya Y.
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we investigate the anisotropic Kantowski–Sachs model in the f(R, T) theory of gravity proposed by Harko et al. (Phys. Rev. D, 84, 024020, 2011) with scalar field (quintessence or phantom). Here R is the Ricci scalar and T is the trace of the energy–momentum tensor. The field equations have been solved using the fact that scalar expansion is proportional to the shear scalar of the space–time. We explore the behavior of the deceleration parameter, which represents a transition of the universe from the early decelerating phase to the present accelerated phase. Some physical properties and various cosmological distance measures are also obtained and discussed.
Anti-inflammatory effects of pelargonidin on TGFBIp-induced responses
Authors: Jeong Seongdo , Ku Sae-Kwang , Bae Jong-Sup
Published: November 2016

Transforming growth factor β induced protein (TGFBIp) is an extracellular matrix protein expressed in several cell types in response to TGF-β. TGFBIp is released by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and functions as a mediator of experimental sepsis. Pelargonidin (PEL) is a well-known red pigment found in plants, and has been reported as having important biological activities that are potentially beneficial for human health. This study was undertaken to investigate whether PEL can modulate TGFBIp-mediated inflammatory responses in HUVECs and in mice. The anti-inflammatory activities of PEL were determined by measuring permeability, leukocyte adhesion and migration, and activation of proinflammatory proteins in TGFBIp-activated HUVECs and mice. In addition, the beneficial effects of PEL on survival rate in a mouse sepsis model were tested. We found that PEL inhibited TGFBIp-induced barrier disruption, expression of cell adhesion molecules and adhesion/transendothelial migration of neutrophils to human endothelial cells. PEL also suppressed TGFBIp-induced hyperpermeability and leukocyte migration in vivo. These results suggest that PEL possesses anti-inflammatory properties that result in inhibition of hyperpermeability, expression of cell adhesion molecules, and adhesion and migration of leukocytes, thereby endorsing its usefulness as a therapy for vascular inflammatory diseases.
Initiatives to combat mercury use in artisanal small-scale gold mining: A review on issues and challenges
Authors: Malehase Tshia , Daso Adegbenro P. , Okonkwo Jonathan O.
Published: November 2016

The Minamata Convention on mercury has received a number of criticisms and challenges that potentially hinder its progress on reducing and controlling mercury use and release by artisanal small-scale gold mining (ASSGM). The resulting weak environmental control has repercussions for the social and environmental wellbeing of countries that subsist on ASSGM in their territory. Lack of distinguishing and categorizing ASSGM, the absence of a contextual implementation plan, and no defined means of communication are some of the aspects that lead to unsuccessful initiatives, particularly on effectively introducing mercury-free technologies. Moreover, an underestimation of the active mining population implies that the problem is greater than what is perceived. ASSGM is a viable source of poverty alleviation which cannot be ignored and therefore the resulting socioeconomic and environmental challenges need to be addressed while optimizing economic benefits. In this paper a compendium of issues and challenges that need to be addressed to reduce and control mercury use and release by ASSGM are discussed. By reviewing the challenges of successful case studies, a comprehensive approach is proposed to enhance the implementation of the Minamata Convention on mercury.
Wastewater remediation via controlled hydrocavitation
Authors: Ciriminna Rosaria , Albanese Lorenzo , Meneguzzo Francesco , Pagliaro Mario
Published: November 2016

Controlled hydrodynamic cavitation is an energy- and chemicals-saving technology increasingly applied to water sanitation and wastewater remediation via mechanical, oxidative, and thermal degradation of chemical and biological pollutants, including recalcitrant contaminants. Reviewing the advances that have allowed hydrocavitation to emerge as an economically and technically viable environmental technology, we identify the key design parameters that decide its efficacy in degrading biological and chemical contaminants. The ongoing renewable energy boom, lowering the cost of electricity across the world, will only accelerate the adoption of hydrodynamic cavitation as an eminent technology of our common path to sustainability, with energy and clean water access for all.
Vulnerability Patch Modeling
Authors: Kansal Yogita , Kumar Deepak , Kapur P. K.
Published: November 2016

The Information Technology products are suffering from various security issues due to the flaws residing in the software system. These flaws allow the violations of security policy and leads into vulnerability. Once the associated user discovers vulnerability the number of intrusions increases until the vendor releases a patch. The patching process helps in maintaining the stability of the software and reduces the probability of damage potential. Even after diffusion and installation whether the patch has successfully removed the vulnerability or not is of great importance. Patch failures creates more vulnerabilities and leads into disaster for developing organizations and users. Thus the success rate of patch is also an unavoidable factor on the basis of which the intrusion rate can be judged. Here in this paper we propose a vulnerability patch modeling that addresses the patching of vulnerabilities that are either discovered by external user or internal user. We also discuss after installation what leads a patch towards failure and what will be its impact on an intact system. The model also provides measures to estimate the potential unsuccessful patch rate that will help developers in logistic planning while patch development. We have used three datasets of different domain to validate the model. A numerical with different goodness of fit criteria is also illustrated in the paper.
Glaukos iStent inject® Trabecular Micro-Bypass Implantation Associated with Cataract Surgery in Patients with Coexisting Cataract and Open-Angle Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension: A Long-Term Study
Authors: Arriola-Villalobos Pedro , Martinez-de-la-Casa Jose Maria , Diaz-Valle David , Morales-Fernandez Laura , Fernandez-Perez Cristina , Garcia-Feijoo Julian
Published: November 2016

Purpose. To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of the iStentinjectdevice (Glaukos Corporation, Laguna Hills, CA) combined with phacoemulsification in patients with coexistent cataract and open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension (OHT).Methods. A prospective, uncontrolled, nonrandomized, interventional case series study was conducted in patients with both mild or moderate open-angle glaucoma or OHT and cataract. Patients underwent cataract surgery along with the implant of two iStentinjectdevices. Outcome measures were intraocular pressure (IOP), topical hypotensive medications required, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA).Results. 20 patients were enrolled. Mean follow-up was47.4±18.46months. Mean baseline IOP was19.95±3.71 mmHg with medication and26±3.11 mmHg after washout. Mean end-follow-up IOP was16.25±1.99 mmHg, representing an IOP decrease of 36.92%,9.74±3.14 mmHg (P<0.001), from baseline washout IOP. The mean number of medications was significantly reduced from1.3±0.66to0.75±0.79(P=0.017). 45% of patients were medication-free by the end of follow-up. Meanlog⁡MARBCVA improved significantly from0.42±0.16to0.18±0.16(P<0.001). No complications of surgery were observed.Conclusion. The iStentinjectdevice combined with cataract surgery served to significantly reduce both IOP and medication use in the long term in patients with coexistent open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension (OHT) and cataract.
Cyclooxygenase‐2: A Role in Cancer Stem Cell Survival and Repopulation of Cancer Cells during Therapy
Authors: Pang Lisa Y. , Hurst Emma A. , Argyle David J.
Published: November 2016

Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) is an inducible form of the enzyme that catalyses the synthesis of prostanoids, including prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a major mediator of inflammation and angiogenesis. COX‐2 is overexpressed in cancer cells and is associated with progressive tumour growth, as well as resistance of cancer cells to conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. These therapies are often delivered in multiple doses, which are spaced out to allow the recovery of normal tissues between treatments. However, surviving cancer cells also proliferate during treatment intervals, leading to repopulation of the tumour and limiting the effectiveness of the treatment. Tumour cell repopulation is a major cause of treatment failure. The central dogma is that conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy selects resistant cancer cells that are able to reinitiate tumour growth. However, there is compelling evidence of an active proliferative response, driven by increased COX‐2 expression and downstream PGE2 release, which contribute to the repopulation of tumours and poor patient outcome. In this review, we will examine the evidence for a role of COX‐2 in cancer stem cell biology and as a mediator of tumour repopulation that can be molecularly targeted to overcome resistance to therapy.
Ocular Biocompatibility of Poly-N-Isopropylacrylamide (pNIPAM)
Authors: Lima Luiz H. , Morales Yael , Cabral Thiago
Published: November 2016

Purpose.To study the safety of intravitreal injections of poly-N-isopropylacrylamide (pNIPAM) tissue adhesive in rabbit eyes.Methods.Twelve study rabbits received an intravitreal injection of 0.1 mL 50% pNIPAM in the right eye. Follow-up examinations included color fundus photography, fundus fluorescein angiography (FA), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and electroretinography (ERG). Subsequent to the last follow-up assessment, the rabbits were sacrificed and histopathological study on the scleral incision sites was performed.Results.All study animals developed mild to moderate levels of inflammatory reaction in the conjunctiva, anterior chamber, and the anterior vitreous during the first month of follow-up. After this period, the level of the inflammatory reaction progressively decreased and completely disappeared after the third month of follow-up. The lens and cornea remained clear during the entire follow-up period. OCT and FA did not show areas of retinal damage or neovascularization. Histological and ERG studies of eyes injected with pNIPAM demonstrated absence of retinal toxicity.Conclusion.Intravitreal injections of pNIPAM were nontoxic in this animal study, and pNIPAM may be safe to be used as a bioadhesive in certain retinal diseases.
RVLBPNN: A Workload Forecasting Model for Smart Cloud Computing
Authors: Lu Yao , Panneerselvam John , Liu Lu , Wu Yan
Published: November 2016

Given the increasing deployments of Cloud datacentres and the excessive usage of server resources, their associated energy and environmental implications are also increasing at an alarming rate. Cloud service providers are under immense pressure to significantly reduce both such implications for promoting green computing. Maintaining the desired level of Quality of Service (QoS) without violating the Service Level Agreement (SLA), whilst attempting to reduce the usage of the datacentre resources is an obvious challenge for the Cloud service providers. Scaling the level of active server resources in accordance with the predicted incoming workloads is one possible way of reducing the undesirable energy consumption of the active resources without affecting the performance quality. To this end, this paper analyzes the dynamic characteristics of the Cloud workloads and defines a hierarchy for the latency sensitivity levels of the Cloud workloads. Further, a novel workload prediction model for energy efficient Cloud Computing is proposed, named RVLBPNN (Rand Variable Learning Rate Backpropagation Neural Network) based on BPNN (Backpropagation Neural Network) algorithm. Experiments evaluating the prediction accuracy of the proposed prediction model demonstrate that RVLBPNN achieves an improved prediction accuracy compared to the HMM and Naïve Bayes Classifier models by a considerable margin.
The Impact of Perceived Stress and Coping Adequacy on the Health of Nurses: A Pilot Investigation
Authors: Jordan Timothy R. , Khubchandani Jagdish , Wiblishauser Michael
Published: November 2016

Stress and coping abilities influence the health and work performance of nurses. However, little is known about the combined influence of stress perception and perceived coping adequacy and its impact on the health of nurses. This study examined the relationship between stress, coping, and the combined influences of perceived stress and coping abilities on health and work performance. A valid and reliable questionnaire was completed by 120 nurses in a Midwestern hospital in the USA. In general, the nurses were not healthy: 92% had moderate-to-very high stress levels; 78% slept less than 8 hours of sleep per night; 69% did not exercise regularly; 63% consumed less than 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day; and 22% were classified as binge drinkers. When confronted with workplace stress, 70% of nurses reported that they consumed more junk food and 63% reported that they consumed more food than usual as a way of coping. Nurses in the “high stress/poor coping” group had the poorest health outcomes and highest health risk behaviors compared to those in other groups. The combined variables of perceived stress and perceived coping adequacy influenced the health of nurses. Therefore, worksite health promotion programs for nurses should focus equally on stress reduction, stress management, and the development of healthy coping skills.
Living on the Edge: Social Exclusion and the Receipt of Informal Care in Older People
Authors: Dahlberg Lena , McKee Kevin J.
Published: November 2016

Older people have been identified as being at risk of social exclusion. However, despite the fact that care is commonly required in later life and the majority of that care is provided by informal carers, a connection between social exclusion and informal care-receipt has rarely been considered. The aim of this study was to examine how informal care-receipt is related to social exclusion. A face-to-face questionnaire survey on social exclusion and informal care-receipt was carried out among older people (n=1255) living in Barnsley, United Kingdom. Multivariable analyses examined the association between social exclusion and categories of informal care-receipt: care-receiver; assurance-receiver; nonreceiver with no need; and nonreceiver with need. Compared to being a nonreceiver with no need, participants were more likely to be care-receivers or assurance-receivers if they had higher levels of social exclusion. The highest level of social exclusion, however, was found in nonreceivers with need. Despite a lack of informal care and support, formal practical support and personal care were also low in this latter group. Findings are discussed in relation to the conceptualisation of care-receipt and how contact with medical services could be an opportunity for identification and appropriate referral of nonreceivers with need.
Intrascrotal Collection in an Acute Pancreatitis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Moens L. , Yengue Yengue P. , Assenmacher C.
Published: November 2016

Context. An inguinoscrotal swelling occurring during an acute pancreatitis is very rare.Case Report. We report a case of right inguinoscrotal swelling appearing in connection with an interstitial edematous acute pancreatitis. We have noticed a spontaneous complete reduction of the right inguinoscrotal swelling after 10 days.Conclusion. The management of a scrotal swelling should be the least invasive possible method but also the most complete possible method to avoid unnecessary interventions. The exclusion of a pathology that could affect the vital prognosis of the testis remains the absolute priority. An acute scrotum swelling must be carried out by the clinical management by a professional and must be completed with an ultrasonography of the scrotum. Despite all that, if the original etiology of the acute scrotum remains unknown, an abdominopelvic CT scan could provide more details and so could offer a different diagnosis of exclusion, different from the diagnosis of acute idiopathic scrotal edema (AISE). This rare complication of acute pancreatitis reported could be mistaken for a more common pathology. If that complication is identified, it will not require a surgical intervention if there is a correct management of the acute pancreatitis which could justify a broader CT scan.
EGFL6 Regulates the Asymmetric Division, Maintenance, and Metastasis of ALDH+ Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Bai Shoumei , Ingram Patrick , Chen Yu-Chih , Deng Ning , Pearson Alex , Niknafs Yashar S. , O'Hayer Patrick , Wang Yun , Zhang Zhong-Yin , Boscolo Elisa , Bischoff Joyce , Yoon Euisik , Buckanovich Ronald J.
Published: November 2016

Little is known about the factors that regulate the asymmetric division of cancer stem–like cells (CSC). Here, we demonstrate that EGFL6, a stem cell regulatory factor expressed in ovarian tumor cells and vasculature, regulates ALDH+ ovarian CSC. EGFL6 signaled at least in part via the oncoprotein SHP2 with concomitant activation of ERK. EGFL6 signaling promoted the migration and asymmetric division of ALDH+ ovarian CSC. As such, EGFL6 increased not only tumor growth but also metastasis. Silencing of EGFL6 or SHP2 limited numbers of ALDH+ cells and reduced tumor growth, supporting a critical role for EGFL6/SHP2 in ALDH+ cell maintenance. Notably, systemic administration of an EGFL6-neutralizing antibody we generated restricted tumor growth and metastasis, specifically blocking ovarian cancer cell recruitment to the ovary. Together, our results offer a preclinical proof of concept for EGFL6 as a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Cancer Res; 76(21); 6396–409. ©2016 AACR.
Chemotherapy, Genetic Susceptibility, and Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Brand Judith S. , Hedayati Elham , Humphreys Keith , Ludvigsson Jonas F. , Johansson Anna L.V. , Bergh Jonas , Hall Per , Czene Kamila
Published: November 2016

Purpose: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is highly heritable and a serious complication of cancer and its treatment. We examined the individual and joint effects of chemotherapy and genetic susceptibility on VTE risk in patients with breast cancer.

Experimental Design: A Swedish population-based study including 4,261 women diagnosed with primary invasive breast cancer between 2001 and 2008 in Stockholm, followed until 2012. Risk stratification by chemotherapy and genetic susceptibility [a polygenic risk score (PRS), including nine established VTE loci] was assessed using Kaplan–Meier and flexible parametric survival analyses, adjusting for patient, tumor, and treatment characteristics.

Results: In total, 276 patients experienced a VTE event during a median follow-up of 7.6 years. Patients receiving chemotherapy [HR (95% CI) = 1.98; 1.40–2.80] and patients in the highest 5% of the PRS [HR (95% CI) = 1.90; 1.24–2.91] were at increased risk of developing VTE. Chemotherapy and PRS acted independently on VTE risk and the 1-year cumulative incidence in patients carrying both risk factors was 9.5% compared with 1.3% in patients not having these risk factors (P < 0.001). Stratified analyses by age showed that the risk-increasing effect of PRS was stronger in older patients (P interaction = 0.04), resulting in an excess risk among genetically susceptible patients receiving chemotherapy aged ≥ 60 years (1-year cumulative incidence = 25.0%).

Conclusions: Risk stratification by chemotherapy and genetic susceptibility identifies patients with breast cancer at high VTE risk, who could potentially benefit from thromboprophylaxis. Our results further suggest that genetic testing is more informative in older patients with breast cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 22(21); 5249–55. ©2016 AACR.
Simultaneous In Vivo Fluorescent Markers for Perfusion, Protoporphyrin Metabolism, and EGFR Expression for Optically Guided Identification of Orthotopic Glioma
Authors: Elliott Jonathan T. , Marra Kayla , Evans Linton T. , Davis Scott C. , Samkoe Kimberley S. , Feldwisch Joachim , Paulsen Keith D. , Roberts David W. , Pogue Brian W.
Published: November 2016

Purpose: While extent of tumor resection is an important predictor of outcome in glioma, margin delineation remains challenging due to lack of inherent contrast between tumor and normal parenchyma. Fluorescence-guided surgery is promising for its ability to enhance contrast through exogenous fluorophores; however, the specificity and sensitivity of the underlying contrast mechanism and tumor delivery and uptake vary widely across approved and emerging agents.

Experimental Design: Rats with orthotopic F98 wild-type and F98 EGFR-positive (EGFR+) gliomas received in vivo administration of IRDye680RD, 5-aminioleuvulinic acid, and ABY-029—markers of perfusion, protoporphyrin metabolism, and EGFR expression, respectively. Ex vivo imaging demonstrates the contrast mechanism–dependent spatial heterogeneity and enables within-animal comparisons of tumor-to-background ratio (TBR).

Results: Generally, ABY-029 outperformed PpIX in F98EGFR orthotopic tumor margins and core (50% and 60% higher TBR, respectively). PpIX outperformed ABY-029 in F98wt margins by 60% but provided equivalent contrast in the bulk tumor. IRDye680RD provided little contrast, having an average TBR of 1.7 ± 0.2. The unique spatial patterns of each agent were combined into a single metric, the multimechanistic fluorescence-contrast index (MFCI). ABY-029 performed best in EGFR+ tumors (91% accuracy), while PpIX performed best in wild-type tumors (87% accuracy). Across all groups, ABY-029 and PpIX performed similarly (80% and 84%, respectively) but MFCI was 91% accurate, supporting multiagent imaging when tumor genotype was unknown.

Conclusions: Human use of ABY-029 for glioma resection should enhance excision of EGFR+ tumors and could be incorporated into current PpIX strategies to further enhance treatment in the general glioma case. Clin Cancer Res; 23(9); 2203–12. ©2016 AACR.
Abstract A022: Computational pipeline for a personalized genomic vaccine trial
Authors: Rubinsteyn Alexander , Hodes Isaac , O'Donnell Timothy , Mondet Sebastien F. , Finnigan John P. , Friedlander Philip , Sabado Rachel , Bhardwaj Nina , Hammerbacher Jeffrey
Published: November 2016

PGV-001 (Personalized Genomic Vaccine) is a Phase I clinical trial at Mount Sinai testing the safety, feasibility, and immunogenicity of a neoantigen + Poly-ICLC vaccine derived from exome and RNA sequencing [1]. The personalized component of the vaccine consists of ten peptides (25 amino acids in length) predicted to contain highly expressed mutated cytotoxic T-cell epitopes. Selecting peptides for each patient requires a number of standard bioinformatics tasks such as somatic variant calling, sequence-based HLA typing, and class I peptide-MHC binding prediction, as well as new methods to determine the coding sequence for each identified mutation, quantify the RNA support for each variant allele, and scoring each vaccine peptide. We present the overall design of PGV, its implementation as an open source computational pipeline, and several independently useful libraries that implement aspects of mutant epitope prediction.

One of the unique characteristics of the PGV pipeline is that the amino acid sequence of a candidate vaccine peptide is determined from RNA reads overlapping a variant [2]. Consequently, variants which lack any evidence in RNA cannot be used in PGV. Determining a coding sequence from RNA allows us to capture atypical splicing around a mutation as well as phase somatic variants with nearby germline variants. Once a mutant coding sequence is established, candidate vaccine peptides are ranked by combining their predicted Class I MHC binding affinity with allele-specific expression [3]. We demonstrate the impact of different ranking criteria on vaccine efficacy using a tumor mouse model.

Execution and dependency management of the PGV pipeline is orchestrated using a a novel workflow engine [4, 5] which allows us to run complex tools across many machines with fault tolerance and reproducibility. The pipeline can be run on single machines, local clusters, or on public infrastructure using the Google Cloud Platform. We hope that by making the PGV pipeline and its underlying components available as open source software we can facilitate faster experimentation in the design of personalized cancer vaccines.

[1] https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02721043

[2] https://github.com/hammerlab/isovar

[3] https://github.com/hammerlab/vaxrank

[4] https://github.com/hammerlab/ketrew

[5] https://github.com/hammerlab/biokepi

Citation Format: Alexander Rubinsteyn, Isaac Hodes, Timothy O'Donnell, Sebastien F. Mondet, John P. Finnigan, Philip Friedlander, Rachel Sabado, Nina Bhardwaj, Jeffrey Hammerbacher. Computational pipeline for a personalized genomic vaccine trial [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Second CRI-CIMT-EATI-AACR International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference: Translating Science into Survival; 2016 Sept 25-28; New York, NY. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2016;4(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A022.
Abstract A029: A vaccine-induced, antigen-specific TH9 immune response blocks tumor cell engraftment
Authors: Abdul-Wahid Aws , Prodeus Aaron , Cydzik Marzena , Alwash Mays , Gariepy Jean
Published: November 2016

Metastatic cancer remains the main cause of cancer-related mortality. Therapies are needed to address this significant unmet medical need. The implantation of cancer cells resulting in metastatic foci is the consequence of a multistep process that is seldom diagnosed or targeted for therapeutic intervention. In light of its adhesive properties and deregulated overexpression by cancer cells, the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) has been identified as a molecular determinant linked to cellular events defining the metastatic cascade including their attachment to the ECM and to the formation of micrometastases. Herein, we report that a vaccination strategy yielding an antigen-specific TH9 response induces long term host surveillance and prevents the engraftment of circulating cancer cells. Specifically, we show that vaccination with a recombinant CEA IgV-like N domain, formulated with the TLR3 ligand poly I:C, elicits a CEA-specific TH9 response, wherein IL-9 secreting TH cells act in concert with CEA N domain-specific antibodies as well as activated mast cells in preventing tumor cell engraftment. Vaccine-imparted protection was reversed upon depleting CD3+ T cells, neutralizing serum IL-9, pharmacologically stabilizing or by depleting of CD117+ mast cells, in vivo. The development of this immune response was dependent on TLR3, since interference with the TLR3-dsRNA complex formation led to a reduction in vaccine-imparted protection and a shift in the resulting immune response toward a TH2 response. These results highlight the first instance of a vaccine induced tumor antigen-specific TH9 immune response and points to the existence of an alternate tumor eradication mechanism that may be exploited for developing anti-metastasic immunotherapies. (Supported by OCIR-IPDC,CBCF and CIHR)

Citation Format: Aws Abdul-Wahid, Aaron Prodeus, Marzena Cydzik, Mays Alwash, Jean Gariepy. A vaccine-induced, antigen-specific TH9 immune response blocks tumor cell engraftment [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Second CRI-CIMT-EATI-AACR International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference: Translating Science into Survival; 2016 Sept 25-28; New York, NY. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2016;4(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A029.