bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantum multidimensional color image scaling using nearest-neighbor interpolation based on the extension of FRQI
Authors: Zhou Ri-Gui , Tan Canyun , Fan Ping
Published: June 2017

Reviewing past researches on quantum image scaling, only 2D images are studied. And, in a quantum system, the processing speed increases exponentially since parallel computation can be realized with superposition state when compared with classical computer. Consequently, this paper proposes quantum multidimensional color image scaling based on nearest-neighbor interpolation for the first time. Firstly, flexible representation of quantum images (FRQI) is extended to multidimensional color model. Meantime, the nearest-neighbor interpolation is extended to multidimensional color image and cycle translation operation is designed to perform scaling up operation. Then, the circuits are designed for quantum multidimensional color image scaling, including scaling up and scaling down, based on the extension of FRQI. In addition, complexity analysis shows that the circuits in the paper have lower complexity. Examples and simulation experiments are given to elaborate the procedure of quantum multidimensional scaling.
Phase transition and electronic properties of SbI3: First-principles calculations
Authors: Sun Xiao-Xiao , Li Cong , Hou Qing-Yu , Zhang Yue
Published: June 2017

We have performed the first-principles pseudopotential calculations to investigate the structural phase transition and electronic properties of SbI3considering several possible phases as a function of pressure from 0 GPa to 100 GPa. Our calculations show that this material undertakes a structural transformation from the R-3 phase to high-pressure [Formula: see text] phase at about 6.5 GPa with a relative volume collapse of 4.3%. We also have investigated the elastic properties and energy band structure of SbI3under hydrostatic pressure. The calculation suggests that the R-3 phase is a semiconductor with an indirect band gap of about 2.16 eV at 0 Gpa. Under the influence of pressure, we have found that high-pressure [Formula: see text] phase has transformed to metal at about 55 GPa.
Graphs of systoles on hyperbolic surfaces
Authors: Sanki Bidyut , Gadgil Siddhartha
Published: June 2017

Given a hyperbolic surface, the set of all closed geodesics whose length is minimal forms a graph on the surface, in fact a so-called fat graph, which we call the systolic graph. We study which fat graphs are systolic graphs for some surface (we call these admissible).

There is a natural necessary condition on such graphs, which we call combinatorial admissibility. Our first main result is that this condition is also sufficient.

It follows that a sub-graph of an admissible graph is admissible. Our second major result is that there are infinitely many minimal non-admissible fat graphs (in contrast, for instance, to the classical result that there are only two minimal non-planar graphs).
Wingbeat Generation for a 15 DOF Flexible-Wing Aerial Vehicle Using Cosine Wave Functions
Authors: Arokiasami Willson Amalraj , Vadakkepat Prahlad , Mamun Abdullah Al
Published: June 2017

Birds and conventional airplanes control their flight in a different manner. Conventional airplanes maneuver themselves by means of moving surfaces, while birds can bend, twist and deform their wings and adapt to unforeseen conditions such as wind gusts. However, if planes can do exactly as the birds do they can gain agility, more lift, less drag while consuming less fuel. This work aims to address this issue. Therefore, approaches of wingbeat generation for a 15 DOF flexible-wing aerial vehicle are developed in this paper. A computationally cost-effective cosine wave function-based algorithm that computes a set of wingbeats enabling the aerial vehicle to follow a desired trajectory in a realistic manner is discussed. The flexible-wing aerial vehicle is modeled similar to a seagull with an articulated skeleton. Motion of the aerial vehicle is simulated by applying joint torques and aerodynamic forces over a period of time in forward dynamics simulation. Wing and tail feather motions generate lift in the aerial vehicle, which makes it possible for the aerial vehicle to trace predefined paths. The solidworks mechanical design is used as input into Matlab SimMechanics for visualization. The results are promising for the construction of bird-like aerial vehicles.
An Improved Empirical Mode Decomposition Based on Time Scale Allocation Method and the 2D Mode Mixing Phenomenon Judgement
Authors: Guo Shu-Mei , Tsai Jason Sheng-Hong , Chen Chin-Yu , Yang Tzu-Cheng
Published: June 2017

In the sifting process of the traditional empirical mode decomposition (EMD), intermittence causes mode mixing phenomenon. The intrinsic mode function (IMF) with the mode mixing phenomenon loses its original real physical meaning. An improved EMD based on time scale allocation method and the two-dimensional (2D) version of our method has been extended to improve the decomposition of the mode mixing phenomenon in 2D image data. Experimental results show that the method not only improves the phenomenon correctly both for 1D signal and 2D image, but also exhibits great performance in quality and computation time.
Running an alt.business: being a good cause and doing good business
Authors: Fried Limor
Published: June 2017

Hacker, maker, and engineer Limor "Ladyada" Fried shares her insights on open technologies and business models.
On entrepreneurship
Authors: Qi Jie
Published: June 2017

Joi Ito, director of the MIT Media Lab, shares his ideas about entrepreneurship learning, finding the right people, and navigating failure with grace.
Positive computing: a novel research field to promote human well-being
Authors: Tondello Gustavo Fortes
Published: June 2017

After decades of remarkable leaps and bounds, is technology really helping to increase society's well-being?
Flexing DevOps talent in a startup
Authors: Fregosi Federico
Published: June 2017

The perfect place for a budding engineer.
Dietary Phosphorus Intake and the Kidney
Authors: Chang Alex R. , Anderson Cheryl
Published: June 2017

Although phosphorus is an essential nutrient required for multiple physiological functions, recent research raises concerns that high phosphorus intake could have detrimental effects on health. Phosphorus is abundant in the food supply of developed countries, occurring naturally in protein-rich foods and as an additive in processed foods. High phosphorus intake can cause vascular and renal calcification, renal tubular injury, and premature death in multiple animal models. Small studies in human suggest that high phosphorus intake may result in positive phosphorus balance and correlate with renal calcification and albuminuria. Although serum phosphorus is strongly associated with cardiovascular disease, progression of kidney disease, and death, limited data exist linking high phosphorus intake directly to adverse clinical outcomes. Further prospective studies are needed to determine whether phosphorus intake is a modifiable risk factor for kidney disease.
Life Cycle Assessment for Economists
Authors: Rajagopal Deepak , Vanderghem Caroline , MacLean Heather L.
Published: June 2017

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a widely utilized technique to quantify inputs and emissions associated with the life cycle of a product, from raw materials extraction through the product's end-of-life. Given the basic economic principle of policy targeting, the case for focusing on emissions associated with a specific good as opposed to targeting each different externality needs development. This review identifies situations that merit a product life cycle approach in environmental regulation and then discusses the use of LCA with different types of policy instruments. We then discuss the methodological and implementation-related issues involved with using LCA as an economic decision aid as well as issues in designing regulations to control life cycle emissions. We conclude by identifying areas for future LCA research that are ripe for the application of microeconomic insights.
Effect of eye position during human visual-vestibular integration of heading perception
Authors: Crane Benjamin T.
Published: June 2017

Visual and inertial stimuli provide heading discrimination cues. Integration of these multisensory stimuli has been demonstrated to depend on their relative reliability. However, the reference frame of visual stimuli is eye centered while inertia is head centered, and it remains unclear how these are reconciled with combined stimuli. Seven human subjects completed a heading discrimination task consisting of a 2-s translation with a peak velocity of 16 cm/s. Eye position was varied between 0° and ±25° left/right. Experiments were done with inertial motion, visual motion, or a combined visual-inertial motion. Visual motion coherence varied between 35% and 100%. Subjects reported whether their perceived heading was left or right of the midline in a forced-choice task. With the inertial stimulus the eye position had an effect such that the point of subjective equality (PSE) shifted 4.6 ± 2.4° in the gaze direction. With the visual stimulus the PSE shift was 10.2 ± 2.2° opposite the gaze direction, consistent with retinotopic coordinates. Thus with eccentric eye positions the perceived inertial and visual headings were offset ~15°. During the visual-inertial conditions the PSE varied consistently with the relative reliability of these stimuli such that at low visual coherence the PSE was similar to that of the inertial stimulus and at high coherence it was closer to the visual stimulus. On average, the inertial stimulus was weighted near Bayesian ideal predictions, but there was significant deviation from ideal in individual subjects. These findings support visual and inertial cue integration occurring in independent coordinate systems.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY In multiple cortical areas visual heading is represented in retinotopic coordinates while inertial heading is in body coordinates. It remains unclear whether multisensory integration occurs in a common coordinate system. The experiments address this using a multisensory integration task with eccentric gaze positions making the effect of coordinate systems clear. The results indicate that the coordinate systems remain separate to the perceptual level and that during the multisensory task the perception depends on relative stimulus reliability.
Physiological properties of brain-machine interface input signals
Authors: Slutzky Marc W. , Flint Robert D.
Published: June 2017

Brain-machine interfaces (BMIs), also called brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), decode neural signals and use them to control some type of external device. Despite many experimental successes and terrific demonstrations in animals and humans, a high-performance, clinically viable device has not yet been developed for widespread usage. There are many factors that impact clinical viability and BMI performance. Arguably, the first of these is the selection of brain signals used to control BMIs. In this review, we summarize the physiological characteristics and performance—including movement-related information, longevity, and stability—of multiple types of input signals that have been used in invasive BMIs to date. These include intracortical spikes as well as field potentials obtained inside the cortex, at the surface of the cortex (electrocorticography), and at the surface of the dura mater (epidural signals). We also discuss the potential for future enhancements in input signal performance, both by improving hardware and by leveraging the knowledge of the physiological characteristics of these signals to improve decoding and stability.
The visual encoding of purely proprioceptive intermanual tasks is due to the need of transforming joint signals, not to their interhemispheric transfer
Authors: Arnoux Léo , Fromentin Sebastien , Farotto Dario , Beraneck Mathieu , McIntyre Joseph , Tagliabue Michele
Published: June 2017

To perform goal-oriented hand movement, humans combine multiple sensory signals (e.g., vision and proprioception) that can be encoded in various reference frames (body centered and/or exo-centered). In a previous study (Tagliabue M, McIntyre J. PLoS One 8: e68438, 2013), we showed that, when aligning a hand to a remembered target orientation, the brain encodes both target and response in visual space when the target is sensed by one hand and the response is performed by the other, even though both are sensed only through proprioception. Here we ask whether such visual encoding is due 1) to the necessity of transferring sensory information across the brain hemispheres, or 2) to the necessity, due to the arms’ anatomical mirror symmetry, of transforming the joint signals of one limb into the reference frame of the other. To answer this question, we asked subjects to perform purely proprioceptive tasks in different conditions: Intra, the same arm sensing the target and performing the movement; Inter/Parallel, one arm sensing the target and the other reproducing its orientation; and Inter/Mirror, one arm sensing the target and the other mirroring its orientation. Performance was very similar between Intra and Inter/Mirror (conditions not requiring joint-signal transformations), while both differed from Inter/Parallel. Manipulation of the visual scene in a virtual reality paradigm showed visual encoding of proprioceptive information only in the latter condition. These results suggest that the visual encoding of purely proprioceptive tasks is not due to interhemispheric transfer of the proprioceptive information per se, but to the necessity of transforming joint signals between mirror-symmetric limbs.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Why does the brain encode goal-oriented, intermanual tasks in a visual space, even in the absence of visual feedback about the target and the hand? We show that the visual encoding is not due to the transfer of proprioceptive signals between brain hemispheres per se, but to the need, due to the mirror symmetry of the two limbs, of transforming joint angle signals of one arm in different joint signals of the other.
Prevention and reversal of latent sensitization of dorsal horn neurons by glial blockers in a model of low back pain in male rats
Authors: Zhang Juanjuan , Mense Siegfried , Treede Rolf-Detlef , Hoheisel Ulrich
Published: June 2017

In an animal model of nonspecific low back pain, recordings from dorsal horn neurons were made to investigate the influence of glial cells in the central sensitization process. To induce a latent sensitization of the neurons, nerve growth factor (NGF) was injected into the multifidus muscle; the manifest sensitization to a second NGF injection 5 days later was used as a read-out. The sensitization manifested in increased resting activity and in an increased proportion of neurons responding to stimulation of deep somatic tissues. To block microglial activation, minocycline was continuously administered intrathecally starting 1 day before or 2 days after the first NGF injection. The glia inhibitor fluorocitrate that also blocks astrocyte activation was administrated 2 days after the first injection. Minocycline applied before the first NGF injection reduced the manifest sensitization after the second NGF injection to control values. The proportion of neurons responsive to stimulation of deep tissues was reduced from 50% to 17.7% ( P < 0.01). No significant changes occurred when minocycline was applied after the first injection. In contrast, fluorocitrate administrated after the first NGF injection reduced significantly the proportion of neurons with deep input (15.8%, P < 0.01). A block of glia activation had no significant effect on the increased resting activity. The data suggest that blocking microglial activation prevented the NGF-induced latent spinal sensitization, whereas blocking astrocyte activation reversed it. The induction of spinal neuronal sensitization in this pain model appears to depend on microglia activation, whereas its maintenance is regulated by activated astrocytes.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Activated microglia and astrocytes mediate the latent sensitization induced by nerve growth factor in dorsal horn neurons that receive input from deep tissues of the low back. These processes may contribute to nonspecific low back pain.
Supramodal representation of temporal priors calibrates interval timing
Authors: Zhang Huihui , Zhou Xiaolin
Published: June 2017

Visual timing and auditory timing influence each other when time intervals in the two modalities are drawn from two adjacent distributions and are randomly intermixed. A Bayesian model with a supramodal prior (distribution of intervals from both modalities) outperforms the model using sensory-specific priors in describing participants’ performance. A generalized model further reveals that the prior is represented as a weighted average of the distribution of time intervals from the two modalities, which differ individually.
Identifying Initial Condition in Degenerate Parabolic Equation with Singular Potential
Authors: Atifi K. , Balouki Y. , Essoufi El-H. , Khouiti B.
Published: June 2017

A hybrid algorithm and regularization method are proposed, for the first time, to solve the one-dimensional degenerate inverse heat conduction problem to estimate the initial temperature distribution from point measurements. The evolution of the heat is given by a degenerate parabolic equation with singular potential. This problem can be formulated in a least-squares framework, an iterative procedure which minimizes the difference between the given measurements and the value at sensor locations of a reconstructed field. The mathematical model leads to a nonconvex minimization problem. To solve it, we prove the existence of at least one solution of problem and we propose two approaches: the first is based on a Tikhonov regularization, while the second approach is based on a hybrid genetic algorithm (married genetic with descent method type gradient). Some numerical experiments are given.
Assessment of Near-Bottom Water Quality of Southwestern Coast of Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia: A Multivariate Statistical Approach
Authors: Soo Chen-Lin , Chen Cheng-Ann , Mohd-Long Shabdin
Published: June 2017

The study on Sarawak coastal water quality is scarce, not to mention the application of the multivariate statistical approach to investigate the spatial variation of water quality and to identify the pollution source in Sarawak coastal water. Hence, the present study aimed to evaluate the spatial variation of water quality along the coastline of the southwestern region of Sarawak using multivariate statistical techniques. Seventeen physicochemical parameters were measured at 11 stations along the coastline with approximately 225 km length. The coastal water quality showed spatial heterogeneity where the cluster analysis grouped the 11 stations into four different clusters. Deterioration in coastal water quality has been observed in different regions of Sarawak corresponding to land use patterns in the region. Nevertheless, nitrate-nitrogen exceeded the guideline value at all sampling stations along the coastline. The principal component analysis (PCA) has determined a reduced number of five principal components that explained 89.0% of the data set variance. The first PC indicated that the nutrients were the dominant polluting factors, which is attributed to the domestic, agricultural, and aquaculture activities, followed by the suspended solids in the second PC which are related to the logging activities.
Determination of Bacterial Quality of Water in Randomly Selected Swimming Pools in Kampala City, Uganda
Authors: Ekopai Joyce Margaret , Musisi Nathan Lubowa , Onyuth Howard , Gabriela Namara Benigna , Sente Celsus
Published: June 2017

Swimming pools have become major recreation facilities for leisure and sports in cities across the world, but the standard guidelines, particularly in developing countries, are not adhered to because little is known about the contaminants in the pools and the possible health risks involved. This study provides a survey of bacterial quality of water from swimming pools in Kampala. A total of 26 water samples were collected from 13 outdoor swimming pools in Kampala between January and June 2016 and analysed for total aerobic plate count (TPC), Escherichia coli, coliforms, and Salmonella. The heterotrophic bacterial load ranged between 0 and 6.35 × 105 cfu/ml, where 6.35 × 105 cfu/ml was the highest load and 3 × 101 cfu/ml the least. The highest average TPC was 6.19 × 105 cfu/ml and the lowest 5.07 × 103 cfu/ml. 30.8% of the pools had TPC within acceptable limits (≤5 × 102 cfu/ml), whereas 69.2% were highly contaminated and did not conform to the Uganda National Water and Sewerage Corporation standards of recreational water quality for both treated (0 cfu/100 mls) water and untreated (10 cfu/100 mls) water. Although no positive results were yielded for E. coli, coliforms, and Salmonella, TPC represented the presence of heterotrophic bacteria which are often indicated in opportunistic infections.
An Algorithmic Approach for Assessment of Mediastinal Lesions Using Conventional Transbronchial Needle Aspiration and Endoscopic Ultrasonography in a Single Procedure
Authors: Burkett Andrew , Sekhon Harmanjatinder S. , Burkett Craig , Hakim Shaheed W. , Amjadi Kayvan
Published: June 2017

Background. In the era of endobronchial/esophageal ultrasound (EBUS-TBNA/EUS-FNA), many centers forgo conventional transbronchial needle aspiration (C-TBNA) in favour of EBUS-TBNA/EUS-FNA despite no conclusive evidence showing better yields with EBUS-TBNA/EUS-FNA. Objectives. Assess the feasibility of an algorithmic approach for mediastinal sampling beginning with C-TBNA utilizing rapid onsite cytologic evaluation. Methods. Descriptive analysis of 92 consecutive patients referred for adenopathy that underwent C-TBNA and subsequent EBUS-TBNA/EUS-FNA if C-TBNA was negative or nondiagnostic. Results. 92 procedures were analyzed. In 50 (54.3%) of cases, C-TBNA alone was sufficient. EBUS-TBNA was performed after C-TBNA in 27 (29.3%) of cases and EUS-FNA in 33 (35.9%) of cases. The yield was 92.9% for C-TBNA, 92.5% for EBUS-TBNA, and 89.7% for EUS-FNA. There were no statistically significant differences in yields by LN station (P=0.51), the relationship between yield and LN size (P=0.37), or time difference in procedures following the algorithm compared to EBUS/EUS only procedures (33.7 minutes versus 32.4 minutes on average [95% CI for difference: −9.1 to 11.7], P=0.80). Conclusions. An algorithmic approach to assess the mediastinum using C-TBNA initially is feasible without sacrificing yield or procedure times. C-TBNA was sufficient for diagnosis in 54.3% of cases and can be efficiently taught in an IP training program.
Impaired Hippocampal Glutamate and Glutamine Metabolism in the db/db Mouse Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Andersen Jens Velde , Nissen Jakob Dahl , Christensen Sofie Kjellerup , Markussen Kia Hjulmand , Waagepetersen Helle Sønderby
Published: June 2017

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a risk factor for the development of Alzheimer’s disease, and changes in brain energy metabolism have been suggested as a causative mechanism. The aim of this study was to investigate the cerebral metabolism of the important amino acids glutamate and glutamine in the db/db mouse model of T2DM. Glutamate and glutamine are both substrates for mitochondrial oxidation, and oxygen consumption was assessed in isolated brain mitochondria by Seahorse XFe96 analysis. In addition, acutely isolated cerebral cortical and hippocampal slices were incubated with [U-13C]glutamate and [U-13C]glutamine, and tissue extracts were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The oxygen consumption rate using glutamate and glutamine as substrates was not different in isolated cerebral mitochondria of db/db mice compared to controls. Hippocampal slices of db/db mice exhibited significantly reduced 13C labeling in glutamate, glutamine, GABA, citrate, and aspartate from metabolism of [U-13C]glutamate. Additionally, reduced 13C labeling were observed in GABA, citrate, and aspartate from [U-13C]glutamine metabolism in hippocampal slices of db/db mice when compared to controls. None of these changes were observed in cerebral cortical slices. The results suggest specific hippocampal impairments in glutamate and glutamine metabolism, without affecting mitochondrial oxidation of these substrates, in the db/db mouse.
Sensitivity, Specificity, Predictive Values, and Accuracy of Three Diagnostic Tests to Predict Inferior Alveolar Nerve Blockade Failure in Symptomatic Irreversible Pulpitis
Authors: Chavarría-Bolaños Daniel , Rodríguez-Wong Laura , Noguera-González Danny , Esparza-Villalpando Vicente , Montero-Aguilar Mauricio , Pozos-Guillén Amaury
Published: June 2017

Introduction.The inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) is the most common anesthetic technique used on mandibular teeth during root canal treatment. Its success in the presence of preoperative inflammation is still controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and accuracy of three diagnostic tests used to predict IANB failure in symptomatic irreversible pulpitis (SIP).Methodology.A cross-sectional study was carried out on the mandibular molars of 53 patients with SIP. All patients received a single cartridge of mepivacaine 2% with 1 : 100000 epinephrine using the IANB technique. Three diagnostic clinical tests were performed to detect anesthetic failure. Anesthetic failure was defined as a positive painful response to any of the three tests. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, accuracy, and ROC curves were calculated and compared and significant differences were analyzed.Results.IANB failure was determined in 71.7% of the patients. The sensitivity scores for the three tests (lip numbness, the cold stimuli test, and responsiveness during endodontic access) were 0.03, 0.35, and 0.55, respectively, and the specificity score was determined as 1 for all of the tests. Clinically, none of the evaluated tests demonstrated a high enough accuracy (0.30, 0.53, and 0.68 for lip numbness, the cold stimuli test, and responsiveness during endodontic access, resp.). A comparison of the areas under the curve in the ROC analyses showed statistically significant differences between the three tests (p<0.05).Conclusion.None of the analyzed tests demonstrated a high enough accuracy to be considered a reliable diagnostic tool for the prediction of anesthetic failure.
Geological Feasibility of Underground Oil Storage in Jintan Salt Mine of China
Authors: Shi Xilin , Liu Wei , Chen Jie , Yang Chunhe , Li Yinping , Ma Hongling , Peng Huihua , Wang Tongtao , Ma Xuqiang
Published: June 2017

A number of large underground oil storage spaces will be constructed in deep salt mines in China in the coming years. According to the general geological survey, the first salt cavern oil storage base of China is planned to be built in Jintan salt mine. In this research, the geological feasibility of the salt mine for oil storage is identified in detail as follows. (1) The characteristics of regional structure, strata sediment, and impermeable layer distribution of Jintan salt mine were evaluated and analyzed. (2) The tightness of cap rock was evaluated in reviews of macroscopic geology and microscopic measuring. (3) According to the geological characteristics of Jintan salt mine, the specific targeted formation for building underground oil storage was chosen, and the sealing of nonsalt interlayers was evaluated. (4) Based on the sonar measuring results of the salt caverns, the characteristics of solution mining salt caverns were analyzed. In addition, the preferred way of underground oil storage construction was determined. (5) Finally, the results of closed well observation in solution mining salt caverns were assessed. The research results indicated that Jintan salt mine has the basic geological conditions for building large-scale underground oil storage.
Endogenous Production of n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Promotes Fracture Healing in Mice
Authors: Chen Yuhui , Cao He , Sun Dawei , Lin Changxin , Wang Liang , Huang Minjun , Jiang Huaji , Zhang Zhongmin , Jin Dadi , Zhang Baiyu , Bai Xiaochun
Published: June 2017

Bone fracture is a global healthcare issue for high rates of delayed healing and nonunions. Although n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) is considered as a beneficial factor for bone metabolism, only few studies till date focused on the effects of n-3 PUFAs on fracture healing. In this study, we investigated the effect of endogenous n-3 PUFAs on fracture healing by measuring femur fracture repair in bothfat-1transgenic mice and WT mice. Proximal femoral fracture model was established infat-1transgenic mice and WT mice, respectively, and then the fracture was analyzed by using X-ray, micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), and histological assessment at 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days after fixation. The results showed that compared with WT mice,fat-1mice exhibited acceleration in fracture healing through radiographic and histological analysis (18–21 days versus 21–28 days postfracture). Meanwhile, X-ray and micro-CT analysis that showed better remodeling callus formation were in thefat-1group compared to WT group. Furthermore, histological analysis revealed that endogenous n-3 PUFAs promoted local endochondral ossification and accelerated the remodeling of calcified calluses after fracture. In conclusion, the present study indicated that endogenously produced n-3 PUFAs promote fracture healing process and accelerate bone remodeling in mice, and supplementation of n-3 PUFAs was positively associated with fracture healing.
Method for Real‐Time Abnormal State Detection of a Distribution Network Based on Maximum and Minimum Eigenvalues
Authors: Liu Keyan , He Kaiyuan , Niu Huanna , Wang Yuzhu , Zhao Jingxiang
Published: June 2017

The state analysis method of a traditional distribution network operation is strictly dependent on the physical model of itself, but it varies as the geography changes, and it is difficult to find the abnormal state of a district network on real‐time, especially the sudden change caused by the distributed energy and EV load. So, a method of the abnormal state detecting for the distribution network is proposed based on the maximum and minimum eigenvalues. Firstly, a high‐dimensional random matrix is established by the big data from the distribution network management system to take abnormal state detection through a real‐time sliding window. Then, the maximum and minimum eigenvalues of the distribution network are gained by calculating the sample covariance matrix of the random matrix and determining the maximum and minimum eigenvalues of the latter matrix. Finally, an 1177‐node testing system was taken as an example, and the simulation results showed that the proposed method could detect the abnormal state in real‐time without depending on the physical model and fault type of the grid.
Omega‐3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Critical Illness: Anti‐Inflammatory, Proresolving, or Both?
Authors: Molfino Alessio , Amabile Maria Ida , Monti Massimo , Muscaritoli Maurizio
Published: June 2017

Prognosis and outcomes of critically ill patients are strictly related with inflammatory status. Inflammation involves a multitude of interactions between different cell types and chemical mediators. Omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), mainly represented by eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are able to inhibit different pathways including leukocyte chemotaxis, adhesion molecule expression and interactions, and production of inflammatory cytokines, through the action of specialized proresolving mediators (SPMs). SPMs from omega‐6 fatty acids, such as lipoxins, and from omega‐3 fatty acids such as resolvins, protectins, and maresins, act in reducing/resolving the inflammatory process in critical diseases, stimulating the phases of resolution of inflammation. In this light, the resolution of inflammation is nowadays considered as an active process, instead of a passive process. In critical illness, SPMs regulate the excessive posttrauma inflammatory response, protecting organs from damage. This review focuses on the role of omega‐3 PUFAs as pharma nutrition agents in acute inflammatory conditions, highlighting their effects as anti‐inflammatory or proresolving agents.
Differential Diagnosis and Management of Incomplete Locked-In Syndrome after Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Surdyke Lauren , Fernandez Jennifer , Foster Hannah , Spigel Pamela
Published: June 2017

Locked-in syndrome (LIS) is a rare diagnosis in which patients present with quadriplegia, lower cranial nerve paralysis, and mutism. It is clinically difficult to differentiate from other similarly presenting diagnoses with no standard approach for assessing such poorly responsive patients. The purpose of this case is to highlight the clinical differential diagnosis process and outcomes of a patient with LIS during acute inpatient rehabilitation. A 32-year-old female was admitted following traumatic brain injury. She presented with quadriplegia and mutism but was awake and aroused based on eye gaze communication. The rehabilitation team was able to diagnose incomplete LIS based on knowledge of neuroanatomy and clinical reasoning. Establishing this diagnosis allowed for an individualized treatment plan that focused on communication, coping, family training, and discharge planning. The patient was ultimately able to discharge home with a single caregiver, improving her quality of life. Continued evidence highlights the benefits of intensive comprehensive therapy for those with acquired brain injury such as LIS, but access is still limited for those with a seemingly poor prognosis. Access to a multidisciplinary, specialized team provides opportunity for continued assessment and individualized treatment as the patient attains more medical stability, improving long-term management.
Association of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in DC-SIGN with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Susceptibility
Authors: Li Sisi , Lu Zhifang , Yao Mengwei , Ning Sisi , Wu Yuan , Zhou Xunzhao , Zhong Changtao , Yan Kui , Xie Ying , Wei Zhengbo
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was to explore potential relationships of four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene encoding dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule 3-grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN) with risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The DC-SIGN SNPs rs7252229, rs4804803, rs2287886, and rs735240 were genotyped in 477 unrelated NPC patients and 561 cancer-free controls. At rs7252229, risk of NPC was significantly lower in individuals with GC (odds ratio [OR] 0.076, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.008–0.690), GG (OR 0.056, 95%CI 0.006–0.487), or GC + GG (OR 0.059, 95%CI 0.007–0.515) than in individuals with the CC genotype, after adjusting for age, gender, smoking history, and EBV-VCA-IgA status. At rs4804803, risk of NPC was significantly higher in individuals with the genotype GG than in those with the genotype AA (adjusted OR 9.038, 95%CI 1.708–47.822). At rs735240, risk of NPC did not change significantly with genotypes AG, GG, or AG + GG after adjusting for age, gender, and smoking history. However, when data were also adjusted for EBV-VCA-IgA status, three genotypes emerged as associated with significantly higher risk of NPC than the AA genotype: AG (OR 2.976, 95%CI 1.123–7.888), GG (OR 3.314, 95%CI 1.274–8.622), or GG + AG (OR 3.191, 95%CI 1.237–8.230). Our results suggest that DC-SIGN SNPs rs7252229, rs4804803, and rs735240 may influence NPC risk in the Chinese population. The mechanisms mediating this risk require a further study.
Application of Heuristic and Metaheuristic Algorithms in Solving Constrained Weber Problem with Feasible Region Bounded by Arcs
Authors: Stojanović Igor , Brajević Ivona , Stanimirović Predrag S. , Kazakovtsev Lev A. , Zdravev Zoran
Published: June 2017

The continuous planar facility location problem with the connected region of feasible solutions bounded by arcs is a particular case of the constrained Weber problem. This problem is a continuous optimization problem which has a nonconvex feasible set of constraints. This paper suggests appropriate modifications of four metaheuristic algorithms which are defined with the aim of solving this type of nonconvex optimization problems. Also, a comparison of these algorithms to each other as well as to the heuristic algorithm is presented. The artificial bee colony algorithm, firefly algorithm, and their recently proposed improved versions for constrained optimization are appropriately modified and applied to the case study. The heuristic algorithm based on modified Weiszfeld procedure is also implemented for the purpose of comparison with the metaheuristic approaches. Obtained numerical results show that metaheuristic algorithms can be successfully applied to solve the instances of this problem of up to 500 constraints. Among these four algorithms, the improved version of artificial bee algorithm is the most efficient with respect to the quality of the solution, robustness, and the computational efficiency.
The Protective Effect of Indole‐3‐Acetic Acid (IAA) on H2O2‐Damaged Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells Is Mediated by the AKT Pathway and Involves Increased Expression of the Transcription Factor Nuclear Factor‐Erythroid 2‐Related Factor 2 (Nrf2) and Its Downstream Target Heme Oxygenase 1 (HO‐1)
Authors: Kim Daehwan , Kim Hyewon , Kim Kichul , Roh Sangho
Published: June 2017

Indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) is the most common plant hormone of the auxin class and is known to have many effects including cell proliferation enhancement and antioxidant property. However, no study has revealed its defensive effects against oxidative toxicity in human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). In this study, we investigated the effects of IAA on hydrogen peroxide‐ (H2O2‐) induced oxidative toxicity in hDPSCs. H2O2‐induced cytotoxicity was attenuated after IAA treatment. Cell cycle analysis using FACS showed that the damaged cell cycle and increased number of apoptotic cells by H2O2 treatment were recovered after the treatment of IAA. The H2O2‐mediated increased expression of the proapoptotic genes, BAX and p53, was attenuated by IAA treatment, while IAA treatment increased antiapoptotic genes, BCL-2 and ATF5 expression. The increases of cleaved caspase‐3 and ROS by H2O2 were also decreased after treatment of IAA. To further investigate the mechanism of IAA, Nrf2‐related antioxidant pathway was examined and the results showed that the level of Nrf2 and HO‐1 expressions, stimulated by H2O2, decreased after treatment of IAA. Moreover, IAA treatment protected hDPSCs against H2O2‐induced oxidative stress via increased expression of Nrf2 and HO‐1, mediated by the AKT pathway.
A Holling Type II Pest and Natural Enemy Model with Density Dependent IPM Strategy
Authors: Wang Xia , Tian Yuan , Tang Sanyi
Published: June 2017

Resource limitations and density dependent releasing of natural enemies during the pest control and integrated pest management will undoubtedly result in nonlinear impulsive control. In order to investigate the effects of those nonlinear control strategies on the successful pest control, we have proposed a pest‐natural enemy system concerning integrated pest management with density dependent instant killing rate and releasing rate. In particular, the releasing rate depicts how the number of natural enemy populations released was guided by their current density at the fixed moment. The threshold condition which ensures the existence and global stability of pest‐free periodic solution has been discussed first, and the effects of key parameters on the threshold condition reveal that reducing the pulse period does not always benefit pest control; that is, frequent releasing of natural enemies may not be beneficial to the eradication of pests when the density dependent releasing method has been implemented. Moreover, the forward and backward bifurcations could occur once the pest‐free periodic solution becomes unstable, and the system could exist with very complex dynamics. All those results confirm that the control actions should be carefully designed once the nonlinear impulsive control measures have been taken for pest management.
Characterization of MK-4166, a Clinical Agonistic Antibody That Targets Human GITR and Inhibits the Generation and Suppressive Effects of T Regulatory Cells
Authors: Sukumar Selvakumar , Wilson Douglas C. , Yu Ying , Wong Jerelyn , Naravula Saraswathi , Ermakov Grigori , Riener Romina , Bhagwat Bhagyashree , Necheva Antoaneta S. , Grein Jeff , Churakova Tatyana , Mangadu Ruban , Georgiev Peter , Manfra Denise , Pinheiro Elaine M. , Sriram Venkataraman , Bailey Wendy J. , Herzyk Danuta , McClanahan Terrill K. , Willingham Aarron , Beebe Amy M. , Sadekova Svetlana
Published: June 2017

GITR is a T-cell costimulatory receptor that enhances cellular and humoral immunity. The agonist anti-mouse GITR antibody DTA-1 has demonstrated efficacy in murine models of cancer primarily by attenuation of Treg-mediated immune suppression, but the translatability to human GITR biology has not been fully explored. Here, we report the potential utility of MK-4166, a humanized GITR mAb selected to bind to an epitope analogous to the DTA-1 epitope, which enhances the proliferation of both naïve and tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes (TIL). We also investigated the role of GITR agonism in human antitumor immune responses and report here the preclinical characterization and toxicity assessment of MK-4166, which is currently being evaluated in a phase I clinical study. Expression of human GITR was comparable with that of mouse GITR in tumor-infiltrating Tregs despite being drastically lower in other human TILs and in many human peripheral blood populations. MK-4166 decreased induction and suppressive effects of Tregs in vitro. In human TIL cultures, MK-4166 induced phosphorylation of NFκB and increased expression of dual specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6), indicating that MK-4166 activated downstream NFκB and Erk signaling pathways. Furthermore, MK-4166 downregulated FOXP3 mRNA in human tumor infiltrating Tregs, suggesting that, in addition to enhancing the activation of TILs, MK-4166 may attenuate the Treg-mediated suppressive tumor microenvironment. Cancer Res; 77(16); 4378–88. ©2017 AACR.
Arl13b Promotes Gastric Tumorigenesis by Regulating Smo Trafficking and Activation of the Hedgehog Signaling Pathway
Authors: Shao Jia , Xu Linlin , Chen Limin , Lu Quqin , Xie Xinsheng , Shi Wei , Xiong Huanting , Shi Chao , Huang Xuan , Mei Jinhong , Rao Hai , Lu Hua , Lu Nonghua , Luo Shiwen
Published: June 2017

Inhibitors of the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway transducer Smoothened (Smo) have been approved for cancer treatment, but Smo mutations often lead to tumor resistance and it remains unclear how Smo is regulated. In this study, we identified the small GTPase Arl13b as a novel partner and regulator of Smo. Arl13b regulated Smo stability, trafficking, and localization, which are each crucial for Hh signaling. In gastric cancer cells, Arl13b stimulated proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo. In clinical specimens of gastric cancer, Arl13b expression correlated strongly with tumor size and depth of invasion; patients with high levels of Arl13b had a poor prognosis. Our results show how Arl13b participates in Hh pathway activation in gastric cancer. Cancer Res; 77(15); 4000–13. ©2017 AACR.
Competition between DNA Methylation, Nucleotide Synthesis, and Antioxidation in Cancer versus Normal Tissues
Authors: Cao Sha , Zhu Xiwen , Zhang Chi , Qian Hong , Schuttler Heinz-Bernd , Gong Jianping , Xu Ying
Published: June 2017

Global DNA hypomethylation occurs in many cancer types, but there is no explanation for its differential occurrence or possible impact on cancer cell physiology. Here we address these issues with a computational study of genome-scale DNA methylation in 16 cancer types. Specifically, we identified (i) a possible determinant for global DNA methylation in cancer cells and (ii) a relationship between levels of DNA methylation, nucleotide synthesis, and intracellular oxidative stress in cells. We developed a system of kinetic equations to capture the metabolic relations among DNA methylation, nucleotide synthesis, and antioxidative stress response, including their competitions for methyl and sulfur groups, based on known information about one-carbon metabolism and trans-sulfuration pathways. We observed a kinetic-based regulatory mechanism that controls reaction rates of the three competing processes when their shared resources are limited, particularly when the nucleotide synthesis rates or oxidative states are high. The combination of this regulatory mechanism and the need for rapid nucleotide synthesis, as well as high production of glutathione dictated by cancer-driving forces, led to the nearly universal observations of reduced global DNA methylation in cancer. Our model provides a natural explanation for differential global DNA methylation levels across cancer types and supports the observation that more malignant cancers tend to exhibit reduced DNA methylation levels. Insights obtained from this work provide useful information about the complexities of cancer due to interplays among competing, dynamic biological processes. Cancer Res; 77(15); 4185–95. ©2017 AACR.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Protein Coding Mononucleotide Microsatellites in Microsatellite-Unstable Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kondelin Johanna , Gylfe Alexandra E. , Lundgren Sofie , Tanskanen Tomas , Hamberg Jiri , Aavikko Mervi , Palin Kimmo , Ristolainen Heikki , Katainen Riku , Kaasinen Eevi , Taipale Minna , Taipale Jussi , Renkonen-Sinisalo Laura , Järvinen Heikki , Böhm Jan , Mecklin Jukka-Pekka , Vahteristo Pia , Tuupanen Sari , Aaltonen Lauri A. , Pitkänen Esa
Published: June 2017

Approximately 15% of colorectal cancers exhibit microsatellite instability (MSI), which leads to accumulation of large numbers of small insertions and deletions (indels). Genes that provide growth advantage to cells via loss-of-function mutations in microsatellites are called MSI target genes. Several criteria to define these genes have been suggested, one of them being simple mutation frequency. Microsatellite mutation rate, however, depends on the length and nucleotide context of the microsatellite. Therefore, assessing the general impact of mismatch repair deficiency on the likelihood of mutation events is paramount when following this approach. To identify MSI target genes, we developed a statistical model for the somatic background indel mutation rate of microsatellites to assess mutation significance. Exome sequencing data of 24 MSI colorectal cancers revealed indels at 54 million mononucleotide microsatellites of three or more nucleotides in length. The top 105 microsatellites from 71 genes were further analyzed in 93 additional MSI colorectal cancers. Mutation significance and estimated clonality of mutations determined the most likely MSI target genes to be the aminoadipate-semialdehyde dehydrogenase AASDH and the solute transporter SLC9A8. Our findings offer a systematic profiling of the somatic background mutation rate in protein-coding mononucleotide microsatellites, allowing a full cataloging of the true targets of MSI in colorectal cancer. Cancer Res; 77(15); 4078–88. ©2017 AACR.