bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lenograstim 5 µg/kg is not superior to biosimilar filgrastim 10 µg/kg in lymphoma patients undergoing peripheral blood stem cell mobilization after chemotherapy: preliminary results from a prospective randomized study
Authors: Marchesi Francesco , Vacca Michele , Giannarelli Diana , Ipsevich Francesco , Pandolfi Annino , Gumenyuk Svitlana , Renzi Daniela , Palombi Francesca , Pisani Francesco , Romano Atelda , Spadea Antonio , Papa Elena , Canfora Marco , Pierelli Luca , Mengarelli Andrea
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Randomized trials comparing chemomobilization efficiency between lenograstim and biosimilar filgrastim are lacking. Our previous retrospective study suggested that lenograstim could be more effective than biosimilar filgrastim when used at the same conventional dosage (5 µg/kg) only in lymphoma patients undergoing peripheral blood stem cell mobilization. We planned a prospective randomized study comparing lenograstim 5 µg/kg with biosimilar filgrastim 10 µg/kg to verify the hypothesis of lenograstim superiority even at half the dosage (stress test). Herein we report data after enrolling 60% of planned patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

From October 2014 to November 2017, a total of 42 of 70 planned patients with lymphoma were randomly assigned to receive lenograstim 5 µg/kg (21) or biosimilar filgrastim 10 µg/kg (21). Patients were stratified according to treatment line at the time of mobilization (1 or ≥2). Primary endpoint was the rate of achievement of the CD34+ cell collection target dose (≥ 4 × 106/kg). An improvement by 23% was expected to validate the hypothesis of lenograstim superiority.

RESULTS

The two cohorts were balanced for all the baseline features. We observed an identical rate of patients able to reach the targeted CD34+ cell dose and of mobilization failures (90.4 and 4.8% in both cohorts) and a perfect equivalence in any of the secondary collection outcomes. The hypothesis of lenograstim superiority was not corroborated at interim analysis.

CONCLUSION

Lenograstim at conventional dosage has failed to demonstrate its superiority over biosimilar filgrastim at double the dosage at interim analysis in their first head‐to‐head trial.
A 3‐dimensional‐printed patient‐specific guide system for minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of a comminuted mid‐diaphyseal humeral fracture in a cat
Authors: Oxley Bill
Published: February 2018

Objective

To report the use of a 3‐dimensional (3D)‐printed patient‐specific reduction guide system to facilitate minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) of a humeral fracture in a cat.

Study design

Case report.

Animals

A 9‐year‐old male neutered domestic short hair cat weighing 4.4 kg.

Methods

A 9‐year‐old male domestic short hair cat was presented with a comminuted, mid‐diaphyseal left humeral fracture. Computed tomographic data were processed to yield 3D mesh representations of both humeri and subsequently manipulated in computer‐aided design software. The mirrored, intact humerus was used as a template for appropriate spatial orientation of the major proximal and distal fracture fragments. Patient‐specific Ellis pin orientation guides and a reduction guide were designed and 3D printed. The guide system was used intraoperatively to align the major fracture fragments before application of locking internal fixation via standard MIPO surgical portals.

Results

Internal fixation of the fracture resulted in appropriate bone alignment. Recovery was uncomplicated, with early return to normal limb function and radiographic evidence of advanced fracture healing after 4 months.

Conclusion

A 3D‐printed patient‐specific reduction guide system facilitated accurate alignment of a comminuted humeral fracture during MIPO without intraoperative imaging.
The role of unfamiliar accents in competing speech
Authors: Senior Brianne , Babel Molly
Published: February 2018

A listeners' ability to comprehend one speaker against a background of other speech—a phenomenon dubbed the cocktail party problem—varies according to the properties of the speech streams and the listener. Although a number of factors that contribute to a listener's ability to successfully segregate two simultaneous speech signals have been identified, comparably little work has focused on the role accents may play in this process. To this end, familiar Canadian-accented voices and unfamiliar British-accented voices were used in a competing talker task. Native speakers of Canadian English heard two different talkers simultaneously read sentences in the form of “[command] [colour] [preposition] [letter] [number] [adverb]” (e.g., “Lay blue at C4 now”) and reported the coordinate from a target talker. Results indicate that on all but the most challenging trials, listeners did best when attending to an unfamiliar-accented target against a familiarly-accented masker and performed worse when forced to ignore the unfamiliar accent. These results suggest listeners can easily tune out a familiar accent, but are unable to do the same with an unfamiliar accent, indicating that unfamiliar accents are more effective maskers.
The Superimposed Deubiquitination Effect of OTULIN and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) Nsp11 Promotes Multiplication of PRRSV
Authors: Su Yanxin , Shi Peidian , Zhang Lilin , Lu Dong , Zhao Chengxue , Li Ruiqiao , Zhang Lei , Huang Jinhai
Published: February 2018

Linear ubiquitination plays an important role in the regulation of the immune response by regulating nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). The linear ubiquitination-specific deubiquitinase ovarian tumor domain deubiquitinase with linear linkage specificity (OTULIN) can control the immune signaling transduction pathway by restricting the Met1-linked ubiquitination process. In our study, the porcine OTLLIN gene was cloned and deubiquitin functions were detected in a porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)-infected-cell model. PRRSV infection promotes the expression of the OTULIN gene; in turn, overexpression of OTULIN contributes to PRRSV proliferation. There is negative regulation of innate immunity with OTULIN during viral infection. The cooperative effects of swine OTULIN and PRRSV Nsp11 potentiate the ability to reduce levels of cellular protein ubiquitin associated with innate immunity. Importantly, PRRSV Nsp11 recruits OTULIN through a nonenzymatic combination to enhance its ability to remove linear ubiquitination targeting NEMO, resulting in a superimposed effect that inhibits the production of type I interferons (IFNs). Our report presents a new model of virus utilization of the ubiquitin-protease system
in vivo
from the perspective of the viral proteins that interact with cell deubiquitination enzymes, providing new ideas for prevention and control of PRRSV.

IMPORTANCE
Deubiquitination effects of swine OTULIN were identified. The interaction between porcine OTULIN and PRRSV Nsp11 is dependent on the OTU domain. PRRSV Nsp11 recruits OTULIN through a nonenzymatic combination to promote removal of linear ubiquitination targeting NEMO, resulting in a superimposed effect that inhibits the production of type I IFNs.
Community-based rehabilitation training after stroke: results of a pilot randomised controlled trial (ReTrain) investigating acceptability and feasibility
Authors: Dean Sarah G , Poltawski Leon , Forster Anne , Taylor Rod S , Spencer Anne , James Martin , Allison Rhoda , Stevens Shirley , Norris Meriel , Shepherd Anthony I , Landa Paolo , Pulsford Richard M , Hollands Laura , Calitri Raff
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To assess acceptability and feasibility of trial processes and the Rehabilitation Training (ReTrain) intervention including an assessment of intervention fidelity.

Design

A two-group, assessor-blinded, randomised controlled trial with parallel mixed methods process and economic evaluations.

Setting

Community settings across two sites in Devon.

Participants

Eligible participants were: 18 years old or over, with a diagnosis of stroke and with self-reported mobility issues, no contraindications to physical activity, discharged from National Health Service or any other formal rehabilitation programme at least 1 month before, willing to be randomised to either control or ReTrain and attend the training venue, possessing cognitive capacity and communication ability sufficient to participate. Participants were individually randomised (1:1) via a computer-generated randomisation sequence minimised for time since stroke and level of functional disability. Only outcome assessors independent of the research team were blinded to group allocation.

Interventions

ReTrain comprised (1) an introductory one-to-one session; (2) ten, twice-weekly group classes with up to two trainers and eight clients; (3) a closing one-to-one session, followed by three drop-in sessions over the subsequent 3 months. Participants received a bespoke home-based training programme. All participants received treatment as usual. The control group received an exercise after stroke advice booklet.

Outcome measures

Candidate primary outcomes included functional mobility and physical activity.

Results

Forty-five participants were randomised (ReTrain=23; Control=22); data were available from 40 participants at 6 months of follow-up (ReTrain=21; Control=19) and 41 at 9 months of follow-up (ReTrain=21; Control=20). We demonstrated ability to recruit and retain participants. Participants were not burdened by the requirements of the study. We were able to calculate sample estimates for candidate primary outcomes and test procedures for process and health economic evaluations.

Conclusions

All objectives were fulfilled and indicated that a definitive trial of ReTrain is feasible and acceptable.

Trial registration number

NCT02429180; Results.
BTS guideline for the investigation and management of malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Woolhouse Ian , Bishop Lesley , Darlison Liz , Fonseka Duneesha de , Edey Anthony , Edwards John , Faivre-Finn Corinne , Fennell Dean A , Holmes Steve , Kerr Keith M , Nakas Apostolos , Peel Tim , Rahman Najib M , Slade Mark , Steele Jeremy , Tsim Selina , Maskell Nick A
Published: February 2018

The full guideline for the investigation and management of malignant pleural mesothelioma is published inThorax. The following is a summary of the recommendations and good practice points. The sections referred to in the summary refer to the full guideline.
PFN2 and GAMT as common molecular determinants of axonal Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
Authors: Juneja Manisha , Azmi Abdelkrim , Baets Jonathan , Roos Andreas , Jennings Matthew J , Saveri Paola , Pisciotta Chiara , Bernard-Marissal Nathalie , Schneider Bernard L , Verfaillie Catherine , Chrast Roman , Seeman Pavel , Hahn Angelika F , de Jonghe Peter , Maudsley Stuart , Horvath Rita , Pareyson Davide , Timmerman Vincent
Published: February 2018

Background

Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 2 (CMT2) neuropathy is characterised by a vast clinical and genetic heterogeneity complicating its diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. Identification of molecular signatures that are common to multiple CMT2 subtypes can aid in developing therapeutic strategies and measuring disease outcomes.

Methods

A proteomics-based approach was performed on lymphoblasts from CMT2 patients genetically diagnosed with different gene mutations to identify differentially regulated proteins. The candidate proteins were validated through real-time quantitative PCR and western blotting on lymphoblast samples of patients and controls, motor neurons differentiated from patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and sciatic nerves of CMT2 mouse models.

Results

Proteomic profiling of patient lymphoblasts resulted in the identification of profilin 2 (PFN2) and guanidinoacetate methyltransferase (GAMT) as commonly downregulated proteins in different genotypes compared with healthy controls. This decrease was also observed at the transcriptional level on screening 43 CMT2 patients and 22 controls, respectively. A progressive decrease in PFN2 expression with age was observed in patients, while in healthy controls its expression increased with age. Reduced PFN2 expression was also observed in motor neurons differentiated from CMT2 patient-derived iPSCs and sciatic nerves of CMT2 mice when compared with controls. However, no change in GAMT levels was observed in motor neurons and CMT2 mouse-derived sciatic nerves.

Conclusions

We unveil PFN2 and GAMT as molecular determinants of CMT2 with possible indications of the role of PFN2 in the pathogenesis and disease progression. This is the first study describing biomarkers that can boost the development of therapeutic strategies targeting a wider spectrum of CMT2 patients.
How much does a heart valve implantation cost and what are the health care costs afterwards?
Authors: Huygens Simone A , Goossens Lucas M A , van Erkelens Judith A , Takkenberg Johanna J M , Rutten-van Mölken Maureen P M H
Published: February 2018

Objective

In the era of limited healthcare budgets, healthcare costs of heart valve implantations need to be considered to inform cost-effectiveness analyses. We aimed to provide age group-specific costs estimates of heart valve implantations, related complications and other healthcare utilisation following the intervention.

Methods

We performed retrospective analyses of healthcare costs of patients who had undergone heart valve implantations in 2010–2013 and controls using claims data from Dutch health insurers. Heart valve implantations included surgical valve replacement and transcatheter valve implantation in all heart valve positions. Patients were divided in four age groups. Control groups were created by taking random samples of the Dutch population stratified by age, gender, socioeconomic status and comorbidities. We applied non-parametric bootstrapping to address uncertainty of the cost estimates. The association of patient and intervention characteristics with costs was determined by (multilevel) generalised linear models.

Results

The baseline characteristics of 18 903 patients and 188 925 controls were comparable. The annual healthcare costs were substantially higher for surgical heart valve replacement patients than for controls, especially in the year of heart valve implantation. Factors associated with increased annual healthcare costs for patients were older age, female gender, comorbidities, low socioeconomic status and complications.

Conclusions

We provided a comprehensive overview of age group-specific incidence of heart valve implantations, subsequent survival and complications as well as associated healthcare costs of all patients in the Netherlands. Our results provide real-world costs estimates that can be used as a benchmark for costs of future innovative heart valve implantations.
Understanding veterinary leadership in practice
Authors: Pearson Caroline Elizabeth , Butler Allan J , Murray Yaqub Paul
Published: February 2018

The Vet Futures Report has identified ‘exceptional leadership’ as a key ambition for the long‐term sustainability of the industry. This research investigates what it is like to be a veterinary surgeon in an in‐practice leadership position, applying the qualitative methodology of interpretative phenomenological analysis. Through the researchers’ interpretation of the seven participants’ stories of their leadership experiences, the study advances understanding of the work environment, underlying motivations and the perceived responsibilities of veterinary leaders. Findings suggest, for many, a struggle in transition to leader positions, improving with time. The increase in pace of work is relayed by participants, with an ongoing, and unchallenged, work–life imbalance. The vets involved are highly motivated, driven by enjoyment of their jobs, a desire for self‐determination and a need to make a difference. Relationships form the core of the perceived responsibilities, and yet are identified as the greatest day‐to‐day challenge of leadership. This study offers a valuable insight for veterinary surgeons, suggesting the industry could benefit from pausing and reflecting on behaviours. With a greater understanding of the complexity of leadership and followership, progress can be made to enact positive changes for the future.
Nesting habitat selection and distribution of an avian top predator in the Canadian Arctic
Authors: Peck Kristen , Franke Alastair , Lecomte Nicolas , Bêty Joël
Published: February 2018

Detecting and planning for ecosystem changes from climate and land-use alteration is limited by uncertainty about the current distribution of many species. This is exacerbated in remote areas like the Arctic, where the impacts of climate change are the strongest and where industrial exploration and development are expanding. Using remotely-sensed environmental information and known nest sites, we estimated the breeding distribution and habitat selection of the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) throughout most of Nunavut, a massive northern Canadian territory (>1.8 M km2) encompassing ∼15% of the world’s tundra biome. Our results show that peregrine falcons selected features of prior known importance such as rugged topography, but also sites with higher than average summer temperatures, more productive land classes, lower mean elevations, and lower mean summer precipitation. Our model identifies several areas of high relative probability of peregrine occurrence, some of which were unrecognized to date. Some of these areas may be targets for future industrial developments and are located in an area where some of the fastest climate changes are expected. Our model will allow managers to identify the areas that could be the most critical for monitoring in the context of future development and climate change.
Relationships Among Knowledge Management, Organisational Innovativeness and Performance: Covariance-Based Versus Partial Least-Squares Structural Equation Modelling
Authors: Frega José Roberto , Ferraresi Alex Antonio , Quandt Carlos Olavo , da Veiga Claudimar Pereira
Published: February 2018

The relationships among effective knowledge management (KM), organisational innovativeness (OI), market orientation (MO) and organisational performance (OP) have been explored in the literature. These constructs are generally analysed in pairs, such as the influence of KM on OI, or KM on OP, and other combinations, but the relationships among the full set of constructs in question are not fully understood yet. In the extant literature, the relationships among them are analysed for the most part with covariance-based structural equation modelling (CB-SEM). Partial least-squares (PLS) path modelling is a component-based approach to SEM that is not as widely used as CB-SEM, but it has the potential to allow increased flexibility in handling various modelling problems in comparison with CB models, particularly for predictive and exploratory purposes. This paper aims to verify whether the PLS method could confirm or reject the results of the more restrictive covariance-based method in modelling the relationships among KM, OI, MO and OP. The results indicate that both methods yielded convergent and discriminant validity for the constructs, displaying stability across model analysis and depuration. The PLS model revealed the influence of KM on MO, OI and OP. It also shows that OI is the main driving factor for OP. KM seems to have a direct effect on OP, which is greatly magnified when mediated by OI. The sample size, although borderline adequate for the CB method, was more than adequate for PLS, yielding excellent model stability.
The Friction Effect on Buckling Behavior of Cellular Structures Under Axial Load
Authors: Hu Jianying , Zhou Yu , Liu Zishun
Published: February 2018

When soft cellular structures are compressed axially beyond critical limits, elastic instabilities induce buckling behavior. Although the nonlinear response of periodic materials with different shape voids has been widely investigated, the effect of the friction on the structural response has not yet been explored. In this paper, we develop a simple theoretical model for the buckling of holey column with holes. Meanwhile, we also numerically and experimentally explore the effect of friction on the buckling behavior of the cellular structures. We find out that friction could prevent conventional, global Euler buckling for holey column, which tends to choose the pattern switching mode, and our study also provides future perspectives for mechanics of buckling or optimal design for the cellular structures.
Impact of the INBRE summer student mentored research program on undergraduate students in Arkansas
Authors: McSweeney Jean C. , Hudson Teresa J. , Prince Latrina , Beneš Helen , Tackett Alan J. , Miller Robinson Caroline , Koeppe Roger , Cornett Lawrence E.
Published: February 2018

The Institutional Development Award (IDeA) program, housed within the National Institute for General Medical Sciences, administers the Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) as a strategic mission to broaden the geographic distribution of National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding within the United States. Undergraduate summer student mentored research programs (SSMRP) are a common feature of INBRE programs and are designed to increase undergraduate student interest in research careers in the biomedical sciences. Little information is available about student perspectives on how these programs impact their choices relative to education and careers. Therefore, we conducted qualitative interviews with 20 participants from the Arkansas INBRE SSMRP in the years 2002–2012. Each telephone interview lasted 30–45 min. An interview guide with a broad “grand tour” question was used to elicit student perspectives on SSMRP participation. Interviews were digitally recorded, then transcribed verbatim, and the transcript checked for accuracy. Content analysis and constant comparison were used to identify nine themes that were grouped into three temporal categories: before, during, and after the SSMRP experience. Students viewed the experience as positive and felt it impacted their career choices. They emphasized the value of mentoring in the program, and some reported maintaining a relationship with the mentor after the summer experience ended. Students also valued learning new laboratory and presentation skills and felt their research experience was enhanced by meeting students and scientists with a wide range of career interests. These data suggest that the Arkansas INBRE and the NIH IDeA program are successfully meeting the goal of increasing interest in research among undergraduates.
Mitigation of airways responsiveness by deep inflation of the lung
Authors: Bates Jason H. T. , Rajendran Vignesh
Published: February 2018

Stretching activated strips of airway smooth muscle (ASM) significantly affects both active force and stiffness due to a temporary reduction of the proportion of cycling myosin cross bridges that are bound to their actin binding sites. For the same reason, stretch applied to ASM in situ by a deep inflation (DI) of the lungs is one of the most potent means of reversing bronchoconstriction. When the DI is sufficiently large, however, and is applied while bronchoconstriction is in the process of developing, the subsequent depression in airway resistance is more persistent than can be attributed simply to temporary detachment of ASM cross bridges. In the present study, we use a computational model to demonstrate that this DI-induced ablation of airway responsiveness can be explained by a dose-dependent reduction in the number of cross bridges available to bind to actin when the ASM in the airway wall is stretched above a critical threshold strain and that this disruption of the contractile apparatus recovers over an order of magnitude longer time scale than that of the simple reattachment of unbound cross bridges.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The mechanisms by which deep inflation of the lung reverse bronchoconstriction and affect subsequent airway responsiveness have important potential implications for asthma, yet remain controversial. This study uses computational modeling to posit a mechanism by which sufficiently vigorous inflations applied during active bronchoconstriction not only transiently reverse bronchoconstriction, but also reduce subsequent airways responsiveness for a period of time. Fitting the model to published data in mice supports this notion.
Impact of Diets Containing Plant Raw Materials as Fish Meal and Fish Oil Replacement on Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Gilthead Sea Bream (Sparus aurata), and Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Freshness
Authors: Kriton Grigorakis , Dimitra Kogiannou , Corraze Genevieve , Jaume Pérez-Sánchez , Adorjan Agnes , Zsuzsanna J. Sándor
Published: February 2018

The present study aimed to evaluate whether the total or high substitution of fish meal (FM) and fish oil (FO) by sustainable plant raw materials (plant meal and oils) in long-term feeding for rainbow trout, gilthead sea bream, and common carp can result in spoilage alterations during ice storage. These three species were fed throughout their whole rearing cycle with plant-based diets and compared to counterparts that received FM/FO-based diets or commercial-like diets. Sensory QIM schemes adopted for these species and ATP breakdown products (K-value and components) were used to evaluate the freshness. Sensory acceptability of 14, 15, and 12 days was found for rainbow trout, gilthead sea bream, and common carp, respectively. This corresponded to K-values of approximately 80%, 35%, and 65% for rainbow trout, gilthead sea bream, and common carp, respectively. No major effect of dietary history on postmortem shelf life was shown for gilthead sea bream and common carp; neither sensory-perceived nor chemical freshness showed diet-related differences. Rainbow trout fed with the plant-based diet exhibited slightly worse sensory freshness than fish fed with FM/FO-based diets, at the end of shelf life. These findings imply that FM and FO can be successfully substituted without major impacts on shelf life of fish.
Open Problems Related to the Hurwitz Stability of Polynomials Segments
Authors: Aguirre-Hernández Baltazar , García-Sosa Faustino Ricardo , Loredo-Villalobos Carlos Arturo , Villafuerte-Segura Raúl , Campos-Cantón Eric
Published: February 2018

In the framework of robust stability analysis of linear systems, the development of techniques and methods that help to obtain necessary and sufficient conditions to determine stability of convex combinations of polynomials is paramount. In this paper, knowing that Hurwitz polynomials set is not a convex set, a brief overview of some results and open problems concerning the stability of the convex combinations of Hurwitz polynomials is then provided.
Dental Arch Dimensions in Saudi Adults
Authors: Alkadhi Omar Hamad , Almahfouz Sarah Fahad , Tokhtah Hana Abdulmajeed , Binhuwaishel Lamia Abdulaziz
Published: February 2018

Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate the arch dimensions (width, length, and depth) in Saudi Arabia.Materials and Methods. 169 orthodontic models (73 males and 96 females) made of white stone were selected according to inclusion criteria. Measurement of arch dimensions was taken including width, length, and depth at different reference points. Differences between males and females were tested using independent samplest-test.Results. The sample comprised subjects aged 18–33 years old. Most measurements showed higher values for males compared to females. Saudi males showed smaller intercanine widths compared to Caucasians and Southern Chinese but larger widths in females compared to Caucasians and smaller widths compared to Southern Chinese. Saudi males and females showed larger intermolar widths compared to Caucasians but smaller intermolar widths compared to Southern Chinese. For arch length, Saudis showed longer arches compared to Yemenis for both males and females but smaller palatal depths compared to Yemenis.Conclusions. Differences in intercanine width, intermolar width, and palatal length and depth were found between Saudis and other nationalities. Male and female participants had differences in most of the measurements.
AlpiniaEssential Oils and Their Major Components againstRhodnius nasutus, a Vector of Chagas Disease
Authors: Souza Thamiris de A. de , Lopes Marcio B. P. , Ramos Aline de S. , Ferreira José Luiz P. , Silva Jefferson Rocha de A. , Queiroz Margareth M. C. , Araújo Kátia G. de Lima , Amaral Ana Claudia F.
Published: February 2018

Species of the genusAlpiniaare widely used by the population and have many described biological activities, including activity against insects. In this paper, we describe the bioactivity of the essential oil of two species ofAlpiniagenus,A. zerumbetandA. vittata, againstRhodnius nasutus, a vector of Chagas disease. The essential oils of these two species were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC-MS. The main constituent ofA. zerumbetessential oil (OLALPZER) was terpinen-4-ol, which represented 19.7% of the total components identified. In the essential oil ofA. vittata(OLALPVIT) the monoterpeneβ-pinene (35.3%) was the main constituent. The essential oils and their main constituents were topically applied onR. nasutusfifth-instar nymphs. In the first 10 min of application, OLALPVIT and OLALPZER at 125 μg/mL provoked 73.3% and 83.3% of mortality, respectively. Terpinen-4-ol at 25 μg/mL andβ-pinene at 44 μg/mL provoked 100% of mortality. The monitoring of resistant insects showed that both essential oils exhibited antifeedant activity. These results suggest the potential use ofA. zerumbetandA. vittataessential oils and their major constituents to controlR. nasutuspopulation.
Experimental and Numerical Study of the Interfacial Shear Strength in Carbon Fiber/Epoxy Resin Composite under Thermal Loads
Authors: Wang Hongxiao , Zhang Xiaohui , Duan Yugang , Meng Lingjie
Published: February 2018

This study examined the influence mechanism of temperature on the interfacial shear strength (IFSS) between carbon fiber (CF) and epoxy resin (EP) matrices under various thermal loads using experimental and numerical simulation methods. To evaluate the change in IFSS as a function of the increase in temperature, a microbond test was performed under controlled temperature environment from 23°C to 150°C. The experimental results showed that IFSS values of CF/EP reduce significantly when the temperature reaches near glass transition temperature. To interpret the effect of thermal loads on IFSS, a thermal-mechanical coupling finite element model was used to simulate the process of fiber pull-out from EP. The results revealed that temperature dependence of IFSS is linked to modulus of the matrix as well as to the coefficients of thermal expansion of the fiber and matrix.
Decoding Pigeon Behavior Outcomes Using Functional Connections among Local Field Potentials
Authors: Chen Yan , Liu Xinyu , Li Shan , Wan Hong
Published: February 2018

Recent studies indicate that the local field potential (LFP) carries information about an animal’s behavior, but issues regarding whether there are any relationships between the LFP functional networks and behavior tasks as well as whether it is possible to employ LFP network features to decode the behavioral outcome in a single trial remain unresolved. In this study, we developed a network-based method to decode the behavioral outcomes in pigeons by using the functional connectivity strength values among LFPs recorded from the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL). In our method, the functional connectivity strengths were first computed based on the synchronization likelihood. Second, the strength values were unwrapped into row vectors and their dimensions were then reduced by principal component analysis. Finally, the behavioral outcomes in single trials were decoded using leave-one-out combined with the k-nearest neighbor method. The results showed that the LFP functional network based on the gamma-band was related to the goal-directed behavior of pigeons. Moreover, the accuracy of the network features (74 ± 8%) was significantly higher than that of the power features (61 ± 12%). The proposed method provides a powerful tool for decoding animal behavior outcomes using a neural functional network.
A Comparative Study on Removal of Hazardous Anions from Water by Adsorption: A Review
Authors: John Yasinta , David Victor Emery , Mmereki Daniel
Published: February 2018

This paper presents a comparative review of arsenite (As(III)), arsenate (As(V)), and fluoride (F−) for a better understanding of the conditions and factors during their adsorption with focus on (i) the isotherm adsorption models, (ii) effects of pH, (iii) effects of ionic strength, and (iv) effects of coexisting substances such as anions, cations, and natural organics matter. It provides an in-depth analysis of various methods of arsenite (As(III)), arsenate (As(V)), and fluoride (F-) removal by adsorption and the anions’ characteristics during the adsorption process. The surface area of the adsorbents does not contribute to the adsorption capacity of these anions but rather a combination of other physical and chemical properties. The adsorption capacity for the anions depends on the combination of all the factors: pH, ionic strength, coexisting substances, pore volume and particles size, surface modification, pretreatment of the adsorbents, and so forth. Extreme higher adsorption capacity can be obtained by the modification of the adsorbents. In general, pH has a greater influence on adsorption capacity at large, since it affects the ionic strength, coexisting anions such as bicarbonate, sulfate, and silica, the surface charges of the adsorbents, and the ionic species which can be present in the solution.
Transferable Feature Representation for Visible‐to‐Infrared Cross‐Dataset Human Action Recognition
Authors: Liu Yang , Lu Zhaoyang , Li Jing , Yao Chao , Deng Yanzi
Published: February 2018

Recently, infrared human action recognition has attracted increasing attention for it has many advantages over visible light, that is, being robust to illumination change and shadows. However, the infrared action data is limited until now, which degrades the performance of infrared action recognition. Motivated by the idea of transfer learning, an infrared human action recognition framework using auxiliary data from visible light is proposed to solve the problem of limited infrared action data. In the proposed framework, we first construct a novel Cross‐Dataset Feature Alignment and Generalization (CDFAG) framework to map the infrared data and visible light data into a common feature space, where Kernel Manifold Alignment (KEMA) and a dual aligned‐to‐generalized encoders (AGE) model are employed to represent the feature. Then, a support vector machine (SVM) is trained, using both the infrared data and visible light data, and can classify the features derived from infrared data. The proposed method is evaluated on InfAR, which is a publicly available infrared human action dataset. To build up auxiliary data, we set up a novel visible light action dataset XD145. Experimental results show that the proposed method can achieve state‐of‐the‐art performance compared with several transfer learning and domain adaptation methods.
Population Viability Analysis of the Endangered Roan Antelope in Ruma National Park, Kenya, and Implications for Management
Authors: Kimanzi Johnstone K.
Published: February 2018

Population viability analysis (PVA) was used to (1) establish causes of roan population decline for the past 30 years in Ruma National Park (RNP), the only park where wild roans remain in Kenya, and (2) predict the probability of roan persistence under existing and alternative management options. PVA was done using long-term data based on population dynamics, life history, climatic conditions, and expert knowledge. Poaching was identified as the main cause of roan decline in RNP. Several antipoaching and prioritized habitat management interventions to promote population recovery and sustainable conservation of roans are described. PVA predictions indicated that, without these interventions, the roan population cannot persist more than 3 decades. Furthermore, ensuring sustainable conservation of roans in RNP will boost tourism in Western Kenyan and thus alleviate poverty in this part of the country. Improved income from tourism will reduce the possible pressures from hunting and give greater incentives for local people to be actively engaged in roan conservation.
Phosphorus Speciation by 31P NMR Spectroscopy in Leaf Litters and Crop Residues from Para Rubber, Cocoa, Oil Palm, and Banana Plantations in the Humid Forest Zone of Cameroon
Authors: Nanganoa Lawrence Tatanah , Njukeng Jetro Nkengafac
Published: February 2018

The release of nutrients, including phosphorus from agricultural residues, is an important potential source of nutrients for subsequent crops. To fully understand the contribution of this residue P as a source of plant P for agricultural production, its chemical nature needs to be understood. In this study P species were identified and quantified in leaf litters and crops residues from cocoa farms, oil palm, rubber, and banana plantations by 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Phosphorus in the crop residues was predominantly in the form of inorganic P mainly as orthophosphate and ranged from 45.9 to 89.2%. The highest relative percentage of P as orthophosphate was found in cocoa pod husk (89.2%) and the lowest percentage was found in decaying banana pseudostem (45.9%). Pyrophosphate was detected in trace amounts in all samples (less than 6%) except in fresh palm fronds. However, orthophosphate diester was detected only in fresh palm fronds (11.4%) and phytate was detected only in palm male inflorescence (6.7%). The result implied that cocoa pod husk, palm empty fruit bunch, and palm male inflorescence could be used as organic amendment, based on their high P content and release potential.
TGFβ1-Induced Differentiation of Human Bone Marrow-Derived MSCs Is Mediated by Changes to the Actin Cytoskeleton
Authors: Elsafadi Mona , Manikandan Muthurangan , Almalki Sami , Mobarak Mohammad , Atteya Muhammad , Iqbal Zafar , Hashmi Jamil Amjad , Shaheen Sameerah , Alajez Nehad , Alfayez Musaad , Kassem Moustapha , Dawud Raed Abu , Mahmood Amer
Published: February 2018

TGFβis a potent regulator of several biological functions in many cell types, but its role in the differentiation of human bone marrow-derived skeletal stem cells (hMSCs) is currently poorly understood. In the present study, we demonstrate that a single dose of TGFβ1 prior to induction of osteogenic or adipogenic differentiation results in increased mineralized matrix or increased numbers of lipid-filled mature adipocytes, respectively. To identify the mechanisms underlying this TGFβ-mediated enhancement of lineage commitment, we compared the gene expression profiles of TGFβ1-treated hMSC cultures using DNA microarrays. In total, 1932 genes were upregulated, and 1298 genes were downregulated. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that TGFβl treatment was associated with an enrichment of genes in the skeletal and extracellular matrix categories and the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. To investigate further, we examined the actin cytoskeleton following treatment with TGFβ1 and/or cytochalasin D. Interestingly, cytochalasin D treatment of hMSCs enhanced adipogenic differentiation but inhibited osteogenic differentiation. Global gene expression profiling revealed a significant enrichment of pathways related to osteogenesis and adipogenesis and of genes regulated by both TGFβ1 and cytochalasin D. Our study demonstrates that TGFβ1 enhances hMSC commitment to either the osteogenic or adipogenic lineages by reorganizing the actin cytoskeleton.
Abstract BS3-1: Manifestations and implications of subclonal alterations in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Chandarlapaty S
Published: February 2018

Clinical and pathological evidence for intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH) in breast cancer has long existed, however recent advances in genomic sequencing have revealed a remarkable depth and complexity to ITH. This is further magnified in the study of metastatic breast cancer where there has been significant expansion in the number of tumors as well as the selective pressures faced by individual tumor cells. The near universality of such heterogeneity has led many to question whether ITH is of any biologic or clinical significance or it is simply an intrinsic property of a large population of cancer cells with unstable genomes. We would posit that the significance of ITH can be observed by understanding the pressures that may have generated them. In particular, drug therapy such as anti-estrogen or HER2 targeted therapy can influence the manifestation of ITH. This can reveal underlying vulnerabilities and resiliencies in different cases. In this talk, we will review the evidence that ITH exists for important drivers of breast cancer growth, elucidate the biologic and clinical significance of such findings with a focus on resistance to hormone therapy, and discuss potential strategies to overcome it.

Citation Format: Chandarlapaty S. Manifestations and implications of subclonal alterations in metastatic breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr BS3-1.
Abstract BS3-2: Breast cancer intra-tumor heterogeneity and its clinical implications
Authors: Perou Perou CM
Published: February 2018

Breast cancer is a known heterogeneous disease with significant inter-tumor differences being manifested on many levels including histology, response to therapy, and patient survival outcomes. Importantly, even within an individual tumor, significant heterogeneity may exist. This intra-tumor heterogeneity (ITH) poses a challenge to understanding the biology of breast cancer, and an open question is what impact does ITH have on the clinical decision making process?

Over the past ten years, a rich body of genetic, genomic, and proteomic data has been accumulated concerning the ITH of breast cancers. Much of these data is coming from Massively Parallel Sequencing, and it is yielding a wealth of quantitative data concerning DNA- and RNA-based ITH. This variation can be in the form of somatic mutations, DNA copy number changes, and gene expression differences due to epigenetic differences (i.e. cell state changes) and or microenvironmental influences. Notable recent examples of DNA-based ITH include PIK3CA mutation heterogeneity across different metastatic sites within the same patient with some lesions responding to PI3K inhibitors while others did not. Another key example of ITH are ESR1 mutations that arise within the setting of aromatase inhibitor treatment, where it is sometimes seen that within an individual, multiple different mutations in ESR1 can occur and that confer estrogen independence. Lastly, significant epigenetic ITH can also occur, with a prime example being epithelial tumor cell plasticity, which is often manifested as “state changes”. Examples of this include chemotherapy induced changes that may select for epithelial cells with more mesenchymal features (often referred to as EMT), and which is also typically linked to a more treatment resistant state.

Another important concept that is emerging is that it might be better to target the clonal (or trunk) alterations, as opposed to targeting the subclonal variation. The latter, by definition, is not present within all tumor cells, and thus even if that therapy is effective, it will not target all tumor cells. Conversely, if clonal variants (i.e. those present within the founding clone) are targeted, the treatment may be more effective and cause regression and/or complete response. These multiple examples of ITH are biologically important, but the question still remains, what are the clinical implications? These ITH topics will be presented and discussed within the context of how these findings might affect treatment options and decision making.

Citation Format: Perou Perou CM. Breast cancer intra-tumor heterogeneity and its clinical implications [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr BS3-2.
Abstract ES1-3: Advanced technologies to optimize outcomes and minimize toxicities
Authors: Jagsi R
Published: February 2018

Advances in radiation technology offer substantial promise for improving the therapeutic ratio in breast cancer management, both by improving tumor control and by reducing toxicity. Multiple historical randomized trials and their meta-analysis have demonstrated that the benefits of radiation therapy have been accompanied by toxicity to incidentally irradiated structures, including the heart. However, the past two decades have witnessed a dramatic revolution in technological capabilities to allow greater sparing of normal tissues while simultaneously improving the ability to identify and target areas at greatest risk. Intended for the general audience, this presentation will provide an overview of transformative technological advances in radiation oncology in recent years, including three-dimensional conformal treatment planning, intensity modulation, prone positioning, and devices that allow reproducible deep inspiration to facilitate cardiac sparing. It will review the evidence from historical trials that have established the importance of minimizing dose to normal tissues and the heart in particular, as well as more recent data demonstrating excellent dose distributions and promising outcomes with new technologies, motivating their increased utilization. The presentation will include consideration of advances such as the development of contouring atlases to facilitate greater consistency and quality of care. It will also reflect on cost considerations and concerns about rapid uptake of certain technologies prior to studies establishing evidence of benefit, along with a description of ongoing endeavors to assess value. After summarizing new professional society guidelines on whole breast irradiation, it will identify the current consensus recommendations regarding the most appropriate uses of technology to optimize outcomes of whole breast and boost radiotherapy in the modern era. Finally, it will close with a mention of ongoing and future trials evaluating the potential role of even more advanced technologies, such as proton therapy, true inverse-planned intensity modulated radiotherapy, and stereotactic body radiotherapy, in the management of breast cancer.

Citation Format: Jagsi R. Advanced technologies to optimize outcomes and minimize toxicities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr ES1-3.
Abstract ES10-1: Genetic dissection of cancer development, therapy response, and resistance in mouse models of breast cancer
Authors: Jonkers J
Published: February 2018

Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of breast cancer have proven invaluable for basic and translational cancer research. These preclinical models have been useful for in vivo analysis of breast cancer initiation and progression, as well as for investigating anti-tumor efficacy of targeted drugs and immunotherapeutics. However, the establishment of GEMMs and PDX models involves cost and time limitations that represent serious bottlenecks. To keep pace with the growing number of hypotheses that warrant preclinical in vivo testing, continuous refinement of current breast cancer models is crucial. Novel technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9-based in vivo gene editing, non-germline mouse models of breast cancer, and breast cancer-derived organoids enable accelerated and more refined in vivo and ex vivo modeling of human breast cancer. The resulting preclinical models can be used to identify and validate breast cancer driver genes and candidate drug targets, evaluate anticancer drug efficacy, and identify novel mechanisms of drug resistance.

Citation Format: Jonkers J. Genetic dissection of cancer development, therapy response, and resistance in mouse models of breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr ES10-1.