bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneity of Necrotic Changes between Cortical and Cancellous Bone in Mandibular Osteoradionecrosis: A Histopathological Analysis of Resection Margin after Segmental Mandibulectomy
Authors: Akashi Masaya , Hashikawa Kazunobu , Wanifuchi Satoshi , Kusumoto Junya , Shigeoka Manabu , Furudoi Shungo , Terashi Hiroto , Komori Takahide
Published: August 2017

Background. This study aimed to analyze differences in necrotic changes between cortical and cancellous bone in resection margins after segmental mandibulectomy for advanced mandibular osteoradionecrosis. Methods. Anteroposterior bone specimens from eleven patients who underwent segmental mandibulectomy with simultaneous free fibula flap reconstruction for advanced osteoradionecrosis were analyzed histopathologically for the presence of necrotic bone based on the presence of blood vessels within Haversian canals. Results. Ten of eleven (91%) cortices near the inferior border of the mandible at the anterior margins were necrotic. All cancellous bones at the anterior margins were viable. Seven of eleven (64%) cortices near the inferior border of the mandible at the posterior margins were necrotic. Three of eleven (27%) cancellous bones at the posterior margins were necrotic. Conclusion. Necrotic changes are more prevalent in cortices than in cancellous bones in mandibular osteoradionecrosis, probably due to a decrease of periosteal blood supply caused by radiotherapy.
Recombinant Vaccinia Viruses Coding Transgenes of Apoptosis-Inducing Proteins Enhance Apoptosis But Not Immunogenicity of Infected Tumor Cells
Authors: Koval Olga , Kochneva Galina , Tkachenko Anastasiya , Troitskaya Olga , Sivolobova Galina , Grazhdantseva Antonina , Nushtaeva Anna , Kuligina Elena , Richter Vladimir
Published: August 2017

Genetic modifications of the oncolytic vaccinia virus (VV) improve selective tumor cell infection and death, as well as activation of antitumor immunity. We have engineered a double recombinant VV, coding human GM-CSF, and apoptosis-inducing protein apoptin (VV-GMCSF-Apo) for comparing with the earlier constructed double recombinant VV-GMCSF-Lact, coding another apoptosis-inducing protein, lactaptin, which activated different cell death pathways than apoptin. We showed that both these recombinant VVs more considerably activated a set of critical apoptosis markers in infected cells than the recombinant VV coding GM-CSF alone (VV-GMCSF-dGF): these were phosphatidylserine externalization, caspase-3 and caspase-7 activation, DNA fragmentation, and upregulation of proapoptotic protein BAX. However, only VV-GMCSF-Lact efficiently decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential of infected cancer cells. Investigating immunogenic cell death markers in cancer cells infected with recombinant VVs, we demonstrated that all tested recombinant VVs were efficient in calreticulin and HSP70 externalization, decrease of cellular HMGB1, and ATP secretion. The comparison of antitumor activity against advanced MDA-MB-231 tumor revealed that both recombinants VV-GMCSF-Lact and VV-GMCSF-Apo efficiently delay tumor growth. Our results demonstrate that the composition of GM-CSF and apoptosis-inducing proteins in the VV genome is very efficient tool for specific killing of cancer cells and for activation of antitumor immunity.
Experimental Study on RFID Antenna Reading Areas in a Tunnel System
Authors: Kordelin Kai , Kordelin Jaana , Johansson Markku , Virkki Johanna , Ukkonen Leena , Sydänheimo Lauri
Published: August 2017

We study optimized antenna reading area mappings for a radiofrequency identification- (RFID-) based access monitoring system, used in an underground nuclear waste storage facility. We shortly introduce the access monitoring system developed for the ONKALO tunnel in Finland and describe the antenna mounting points as well as the research area. Finally, we study the measurement results of the antenna reading areas and factors that affect the reading area size. Based on our results, in addition to antenna location and direction, absorption to obstacles, reflections, diffraction, scattering, and refraction affect the antenna reading area.
Perspectives of Biogas Conversion into Bio-CNG for Automobile Fuel in Bangladesh
Authors: Shah M. S. , Halder P. K. , Shamsuzzaman A. S. M. , Hossain M. S. , Pal S. K. , Sarker E.
Published: August 2017

The need for liquid and gaseous fuel for transportation application is growing very fast. This high consumption trend causes swift exhaustion of fossil fuel reserve as well as severe environment pollution. Biogas can be converted into various renewable automobile fuels such as bio-CNG, syngas, gasoline, and liquefied biogas. However, bio-CNG, a compressed biogas with high methane content, can be a promising candidate as vehicle fuel in replacement of conventional fuel to resolve this problem. This paper presents an overview of available liquid and gaseous fuel commonly used as transportation fuel in Bangladesh. The paper also illustrates the potential of bio-CNG conversion from biogas in Bangladesh. It is estimated that, in the fiscal year 2012-2013, the country had about 7.6775 billion m3 biogas potential equivalent to 5.088 billion m3 of bio-CNG. Bio-CNG is competitive to the conventional automobile fuels in terms of its properties, economy, and emission.
Computer-Assessed Preference-Based Quality of Life in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Parimbelli Enea , Pistarini Caterina , Fizzotti Gabriella , Rognoni Carla , Olivieri Giampiero , Quaglini Silvana
Published: August 2017

Objectives. Our aims were to (1) measure quality of life (QoL) in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients using different methods and analyze differences; (2) enable targeted treatments by identifying variables that affect QoL; and (3) provide decision-makers with useful data for cost-utility analyses in SCI population.Methods. Seventy-one participants were enrolled. The computer-based tool UceWeb was used to elicit QoL in terms of utility coefficients, through the standard gamble, time trade-off, and rating scale methods. The SF36 questionnaire was also administered. Statistical analyses were performed to find predictors of QoL among collected variables.Results. Median values for rating scale, time trade-off, and standard gamble were 0.60, 0.82, and 0.85, respectively. All scales were significantly correlated. Rating scale and SF36 provided similar values, significantly lower than the other methods. Impairment level, male gender, older age, living alone, and higher education were correlated with lower QoL but accounted for only 20% of the variation in utility coefficients.Conclusions. Demographic and clinical variables are useful to predict QoL but do not completely capture utility coefficients variability. Therefore, direct preference-based utility elicitation should be strengthened. Finally, this is the first study providing data that can be used as a reference for cost-utility analyses in the Italian SCI population.
Retention of Ascorbic Acid and Solid Concentration via Centrifugal Freeze Concentration of Orange Juice
Authors: Orellana-Palma P. , Petzold G. , Andana I. , Torres N. , Cuevas C.
Published: August 2017

Freeze concentration of liquid foods produces high-quality concentrates while retaining the heat-labile compounds found in fresh samples. Centrifugal freeze concentration is a cryoconcentration method assisted by an external force, centrifugation, to enhance the separation of concentrate from the ice. When applying centrifugal freeze concentration to orange juice, after the third cryoconcentration cycle, the ascorbic acid content in the concentrate showed retention close to 70% of the initial value. After the third cycle, the solutes in the concentrate increased 4 times the initial value of the fresh sample with 70% efficiency. The color evaluation showed that the final concentrated fraction was darker than the fresh juice. The centrifugal freeze concentration in orange juice was effective for obtaining a high-quality concentrate with a higher concentration of solids and ascorbic acid retention.
Neutrophil Extracellular DNA Traps Induce Autoantigen Production by Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Choi Youngwoo , Pham Le Duy , Lee Dong-Hyun , Ban Ga-Young , Lee Ji-Ho , Kim Seung-Hyun , Park Hae-Sim
Published: August 2017

The hypothesis of autoimmune involvement in asthma has received much recent interest. Autoantibodies, such as anti-cytokeratin (CK) 18, anti-CK19, and anti-α-enolase antibodies, react with self-antigens and are found at high levels in the sera of patients with severe asthma (SA). However, the mechanisms underlying autoantibody production in SA have not been fully determined. The present study was conducted to demonstrate that neutrophil extracellular DNA traps (NETs), cytotoxic molecules released from neutrophils, are a key player in the stimulation of airway epithelial cells (AECs) to produce autoantigens. This study showed that NETs significantly increased the intracellular expression of tissue transglutaminase (tTG) but did not affect that of CK18 in AECs. NETs induced the extracellular release of both tTG and CK18 in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, NETs directly degraded intracellularα-enolase into small fragments. However, antibodies against neutrophil elastase (NE) or myeloperoxidase (MPO) attenuated the effects of NETs on AECs. Furthermore, each NET isolated from healthy controls (HC), nonsevere asthma (NSA), and SA had different characteristics. Taken together, these findings suggest that AECs exposed to NETs may exhibit higher autoantigen production, especially in SA. Therefore, targeting of NETs may represent a new therapy for neutrophilic asthma with a high level of autoantigens.
Monoclonal Antibodies Radiolabeling with Rhenium-188 for Radioimmunotherapy
Authors: Uccelli Licia , Martini Petra , Pasquali Micol , Boschi Alessandra
Published: August 2017

Rhenium-188, obtained from an alumina-based tungsten-188/rhenium-188 generator, is actually considered a useful candidate for labeling biomolecules such as antibodies, antibody fragments, peptides, and DNAs for radiotherapy. There is a widespread interest in the availability of labeling procedures that allow obtaining Re188-labeled radiopharmaceuticals for various therapeutic applications, in particular for the rhenium attachment to tumor-specific monoclonal antibodies (Mo)Abs for immunotherapy. Different approaches have been developed in order to obtain Re188-radioimmunoconjugates in high radiochemical purity starting from the generator eluted Re188ReO4-. The aim of this paper is to provide a short overview on Re188-labeled (Mo)Abs, focusing in particular on the radiolabeling methods, quality control of radioimmunoconjugates, and their in vitro stability for radioimmunotherapy (RIT), with particular reference to the most important contributions published in literature in this topic.
Human Long Noncoding RNA Regulation of Stem Cell Potency and Differentiation
Authors: Lee Seahyoung , Seo Hyang-Hee , Lee Chang Youn , Lee Jiyun , Shin Sunhye , Kim Sang Woo , Lim Soyeon , Hwang Ki-Chul
Published: August 2017

Because of their capability of differentiation into lineage-specific cells, stem cells are an attractive therapeutic modality in regenerative medicine. To develop an effective stem cell-based therapeutic strategy with predictable results, deeper understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of stem cell differentiation and/or pluripotency maintenance is required. Thus, reviewing the key factors involved in the transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of stem cell differentiation and maintenance is important. Accumulating data indicate that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) mediate numerous biological processes, including stem cell differentiation and maintenance. Here, we review recent findings on the human lncRNA regulation of stem cell potency and differentiation. Although the clinical implication of these lncRNAs is only beginning to be elucidated, it is anticipated that lncRNAs will become important therapeutic targets in the near future.
Peptide Functionalization of Silicon for Detection and Classification of Prostatic Cells
Authors: Politi Jane , Zappavigna Silvia , Rea Ilaria , Grieco Paolo , Caliò Alessandro , Luce Amalia , Caraglia Michele , De Stefano Luca
Published: August 2017

The development of simple, rapid, and low cost methods for early detection, identification, and measurement of multiple biomarkers remains a challenge to improve diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and prognosis of cancer. Biosensing technology, combining the properties of biological systems with functional advanced materials, guarantees rapid, reproducible, and highly sensitive cell detection. In this study, we developed silicon-based biochips for prostate cancer PC3 cells detection by using cytokeratin 8/18 and Urotensin Receptor (UTR) as markers in order to obtain a biochip-based diagnostic system. Spectroscopic ellipsometry and fluorescence microscopy were used to characterize surface homogeneity and chemical properties. Cell detection was investigated by optical microscopy. Moreover, synthetic fluorescently labeled peptides were prepared and used for developing faster and lower-cost identification assay compared with classic ELISA immunoassay. Results showed an effective immobilization of PC3 cells on silicon surface and the specific recognition of these cells by fluorescent Urotensin II (4–11). In conclusion, this strategy could be really useful as diagnostic system for prostate cancer.
Anthocyanin Retention of Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) Juice Subjected to Different Nanofiltration Conditions
Authors: Ah-Hen Kong , Costa Marcia , Poo Susan , Lemus-Mondaca Roberto
Published: August 2017

The aim of this work was to evaluate the retention of anthocyanin during a nanofiltration process of cranberry juice. Nanofiltration membranes, HC-50P DDS with an effective area of 0.36 m2 in a plate/frame nanofilter system, DDS Lab Module, were used for the experiments. Juice feed flow rate varied from 1.0 to 12.0 L min−1 at transmembrane pressures between 20 and 40 bar (2026 and 4052 kPa). Permeate flux reached a maximum value of 41.3 L h−1 m−2 at a pressure of 40 bar and a feed rate of 12 L min−1, showing a direct dependency on these two parameters. Retention coefficients of anthocyanin of 0.94 to 0.99 corresponding to percentage recovery between 93 and 99% were obtained. Total anthocyanin content increased to values between 237 and 287 mg L−1 from original concentration of 82 to 97 mg L−1 in feed solution. Total soluble solids were also retained on the nanofilter. Both anthocyanin retentate and permeate obtained by nanofiltration could be potential functional ingredients for the food and nutraceutical industry.
The Expression and Related Clinical Significance of SIRT3 in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Yang Guo-Cai , Fu Bi-Cheng , Zhang Dong-Yang , Sun Lu , Chen Wei , Bai Long , Gao Tong , Lu Hong-Guang , Wang Zhao-Yu , Kong Qiong-Qiong , Qiu Lin , Tian Hai
Published: August 2017

Objective. To examine the relationship between the Sirtuin-3 (SIRT3) expression and the clinical indicators/prognosis of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods. The mRNA level of SIRT3 was detected by real-time PCR, while the protein level was detected by Western blot and immunohistochemical staining. SPSS 16.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Results. The expression of SIRT3 was significantly higher in NSCLC tissue than in adjacent tissue. The SIRT3 level was correlated significantly with lymph node metastasis and clinical stage of NSCLC patients. Moreover, univariate analysis showed that the expression of SIRT3, tumor size, lymph node metastasis, degree of differentiation, and clinical stage were correlated with the prognosis of NSCLC patients. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that lymph node metastasis, the tumor size, and SIRT3 expression were independent prognostic factors for NSCLC patients. Conclusions. SIRT3 is associated with the development and progression of NSCLC. The SIRT3 expression can be used as an independent prognostic factor for NSCLC patients and help identify prognosis of NSCLC. Therefore, SIRT3 has the potential to become a new factor for prognosis prediction and personalized treatment of NSCLC.
Transplanted Adult Neural Stem Cells Express Sonic Hedgehog In Vivo and Suppress White Matter Neuroinflammation after Experimental Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Sullivan Genevieve M. , Armstrong Regina C.
Published: August 2017

Neural stem cells (NSCs) delivered intraventricularly may be therapeutic for diffuse white matter pathology after traumatic brain injury (TBI). To test this concept, NSCs isolated from adult mouse subventricular zone (SVZ) were transplanted into the lateral ventricle of adult mice at two weeks post-TBI followed by analysis at four weeks post-TBI. We examined sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling as a candidate mechanism by which transplanted NSCs may regulate neuroregeneration and/or neuroinflammation responses of endogenous cells. Mouse fluorescent reporter lines were generated to enable in vivo genetic labeling of cells actively transcribingShhorGli1after transplantation and/or TBI.Gli1transcription is an effective readout for canonical Shh signaling. InShhCreERT2;R26tdTomatomice,Shhwas primarily expressed in neurons and was not upregulated in reactive astrocytes or microglia after TBI. Corroborating results inGli1CreERT2;R26tdTomatomice demonstrated that Shh signaling was not upregulated in the corpus callosum, even after TBI or NSC transplantation. Transplanted NSCs expressedShhin vivo but did not increaseGli1labeling of host SVZ cells. Importantly, NSC transplantation significantly reduced reactive astrogliosis and microglial/macrophage activation in the corpus callosum after TBI. Therefore, intraventricular NSC transplantation after TBI significantly attenuated neuroinflammation, but did not activate host Shh signaling viaGli1transcription.
Low-Dose Cyclophosphamide Induces Antitumor T-Cell Responses, which Associate with Survival in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Scurr Martin , Pembroke Tom , Bloom Anja , Roberts David , Thomson Amanda , Smart Kathryn , Bridgeman Hayley , Adams Richard , Brewster Alison , Jones Robert , Gwynne Sarah , Blount Daniel , Harrop Richard , Hills Robert , Gallimore Awen , Godkin Andrew
Published: August 2017

Purpose: Anticancer T-cell responses can control tumors, but immunosuppressive mechanisms in vivo prevent their function. The role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in metastatic colorectal cancer is unclear. We have previously shown depletion of Tregs enhances colorectal cancer–specific effector T-cell responses. Low-dose cyclophosphamide targets Tregs in animal models and some human studies; however, the effect of cyclophosphamide in metastatic colorectal cancer is unknown.

Experimental Design: Fifty-five patients with metastatic colorectal cancer were enrolled in a phase I/II trial and randomly assigned to receive 2-week-long courses of low-dose (50 mg twice a day) cyclophosphamide or not. The absolute number, phenotype, and antitumor function of peripheral blood–derived lymphocyte subsets were monitored throughout treatment, as well as during 18-month follow-up.

Results: Initially, cyclophosphamide reduced proliferation in all lymphocyte subsets; however, a rapid mobilization of effector T cells overcame this decrease, leading to increased absolute T-cell numbers. In contrast, a reduction in proportional and absolute Treg, B-cell, and NK-cell numbers occurred. The expansion and subsequent activation of effector T cells was focused on tumor-specific T cells, producing both granzyme B and IFNγ. Cyclophosphamide-treated patients demonstrating the most enhanced IFNγ+ tumor-specific T-cell responses exhibited a significant delay in tumor progression [HR = 0.29; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.12–0.69; P = 0.0047), compared with nonresponders and no-treatment controls.

Conclusions: Cyclophosphamide-induced Treg depletion is mirrored by a striking boost in antitumor immunity. This study provides the first direct evidence of the benefit of naturally primed T cells in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Our results also support the concept that nonmutated self-antigens may act as useful targets for immunotherapies. Clin Cancer Res; 23(22); 6771–80. ©2017 AACR.
Genomic Analysis of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Reveals TME-Based Subtypes
Authors: Zhang Li , MacIsaac Kenzie D. , Zhou Ting , Huang Pei-Yu , Xin Chunlin , Dobson Jason R. , Yu Kun , Chiang Derek Y. , Fan Yue , Pelletier Marc , Wang Yan , Jaeger Savina , Krishnamurthy Radhakrishnan Viveksagar , JeBailey Lellean , Skewes-Cox Peter , Zhang Jing , Fang Wenfeng , Huang Yan , Zhao Hongyun , Zhao Yuanyuan , Li En , Peng Bin , Huang Alan , Dranoff Glenn , Hammerman Peter S. , Engelman Jeffrey , Bitter Hans , Zeng Yi-Xin , Yao Yao
Published: August 2017

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is an Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) associated cancer characterized by a poor prognosis and a high level of lymphocyte infiltrate. Genetic hallmarks of NPC are not completely known but include deletion of the p16 (CDKN2A) locus and mutations in NF-κB pathway components, with a relatively low total mutational load. To better understand the genetic landscape, an integrated genomic analysis was performed using a large clinical cohort of treatment-naïve NPC tumor specimens. This genomic analysis was generally concordant with previous studies; however, three subtypes of NPC were identified by differences in immune cell gene expression, prognosis, tumor cell morphology, and genetic characteristics. A gene expression signature of proliferation was poorly prognostic and associated with either higher mutation load or specific EBV gene expression patterns in a subtype-specific manner. Finally, higher levels of stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes associated with good prognosis and lower expression of a WNT and TGFβ pathway activation signature.

Implications: This study represents the first integrated analysis of mutation, copy number, and gene expression data in NPC and suggests how tumor genetics and EBV infection influence the tumor microenvironment in this disease. These insights should be considered for guiding immunotherapy treatment strategies in this disease. Mol Cancer Res; 15(12); 1722–32. ©2017 AACR.
The MiTF/TFE Family of Transcription Factors: Master Regulators of Organelle Signaling, Metabolism, and Stress Adaptation
Authors: Slade Logan , Pulinilkunnil Thomas
Published: August 2017

The microphthalmia family (MITF, TFEB, TFE3, and TFEC) of transcription factors is emerging as global regulators of cancer cell survival and energy metabolism, both through the promotion of lysosomal genes as well as newly characterized targets, such as oxidative metabolism and the oxidative stress response. In addition, MiT/TFE factors can regulate lysosomal signaling, which includes the mTORC1 and Wnt/β-catenin pathways, which are both substantial contributors to oncogenic signaling. This review describes recent discoveries in MiT/TFE research and how they impact multiple cancer subtypes. Furthermore, the literature relating to TFE-fusion proteins in cancers and the potential mechanisms through which these genomic rearrangements promote tumorigenesis is reviewed. Likewise, the emerging function of the Folliculin (FLCN) tumor suppressor in negatively regulating the MiT/TFE family and how loss of this pathway promotes cancer is examined. Recent reports are also presented that relate to the role of MiT/TFE–driven lysosomal biogenesis in sustaining cancer cell metabolism and signaling in nutrient-limiting conditions. Finally, a discussion is provided on the future directions and unanswered questions in the field. In summary, the research surrounding the MiT/TFE family indicates that these transcription factors are promising therapeutic targets and biomarkers for cancers that thrive in stressful niches. Mol Cancer Res; 15(12); 1637–43. ©2017 AACR.
The Second-Generation PGI2 Analogue Treprostinil Fails to Chemoprevent Tumors in a Murine Lung Adenocarcinoma Model
Authors: Dwyer-Nield Lori , Hickey Gregory A. , Friedman Micah , Choo Kevin , McArthur Debbie G. , Tennis Meredith A. , New Melissa L. , Geraci Mark , Keith Robert L.
Published: August 2017

Prostacyclin (prostaglandin I2, PGI2) overproduction in FVB/N mice prevents the formation of carcinogen and tobacco smoke–induced adenomas, and administration of the oral prostacyclin analogue iloprost to wild-type mice also prevented carcinogen-induced mouse lung adenoma formation. Former smokers taking oral iloprost showed improved bronchial dysplasia histology compared with placebo. Next-generation oral prostacyclin analogues, like treprostinil, were developed for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). On the basis of our prior studies with iloprost, we performed preclinical studies examining the ability of treprostinil to chemoprevent urethane-induced murine lung adenocarcinoma. We determined the MTD in chow (prior studies had delivered treprostinil by gavage), and this dose produced serum levels in the experimental animals similar to those found in PAH patients treated with treprostinil. We then examined the chemopreventive efficacy of treprostinil exposure initiated both before (1 week) and after (6 weeks) urethane exposure to better model chemoprevention studies conducted in former smokers. Neither of these dosing strategies prevented murine lung cancer; however, we did detect changes in pulmonary inflammatory cell infiltrate and expression of CXCR4 (a chemokine receptor previously shown to increase in response to treprostinil exposure) in tumor-bearing, treprostinil-treated animals, indicating that the drug was bioavailable. One potential explanation stems from iloprost and treprostinil differentially activating cell surface prostaglandin receptors and intracellular peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. When murine lung tumor cells were treated with treprostinil, their proliferation rate increased; in contrast, iloprost had no effect on proliferation. Future investigations comparing these two agents will provide insight into iloprost's chemopreventive mechanisms. Cancer Prev Res; 10(11); 671–9. ©2017 AACR.
Photodynamic-Immune Checkpoint Therapy Eradicates Local and Distant Tumors by CD8+ T Cells
Authors: Kleinovink Jan Willem , Fransen Marieke F. , Löwik Clemens W. , Ossendorp Ferry
Published: August 2017

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a clinically applied tumor ablation method that reduces tumor burden and may induce T-cell responses, providing a therapeutic option for mutated tumors. In this study, we applied PDT in two mouse tumor models and assessed its effect on outgrowth of PDT-treated and distant untreated tumors. PDT of established tumors resulted in complete tumor eradication in most mice, which were then protected against tumor rechallenge. Correspondingly, the therapeutic effect was abrogated upon systemic depletion of CD8+ T cells, indicating PDT-induced tumor antigen cross-presentation and T-cell activation. In a double-tumor model, PDT of primary tumors induced enhanced infiltration of untreated distant tumors by CD8+ T cells, which significantly delayed their outgrowth. Combination therapy of PDT and CTLA-4–blocking antibodies significantly improved therapeutic efficacy and survival of double-tumor–bearing mice. These results show that local tumor ablation by PDT induces CD8+ T-cell responses crucial for systemic tumor eradication, which can be further enhanced by combination with immune checkpoint blockade. This combination of two clinically applied therapies may be a treatment strategy for advanced cancer without previous knowledge of tumor-specific antigens. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(10); 832–8. ©2017 AACR.
Wegweiser durch den Allergendschungel: Allergendatenbanken, ihre Merkmale und Anwendungsgebiete
Authors: Radauer Christian
Published: August 2017

Der wachsende Umfang an verfügbaren Daten zu allergenen Proteinen hat die Einrichtung strukturierter, frei zugänglicher Allergendatenbanken erforderlich gemacht. In diesem Artikel werden die Funktionen und Anwendungszwecke von 6 der meistgenutzten Allergendatenbanken behandelt. Die WHO/IUIS Allergen Nomenclature Database ist die offizielle Quelle für die Benennung von Allergenen. Allergome ist die umfassendste Datensammlung zu Allergenen und Allergenquellen. AllergenOnline soll als Peer-Review-Datenbank für Allergensequenzen dazu dienen, die Allergenität von Proteinen vorherzusagen, die z.B. in gentechnisch veränderte Nutzpflanzen eingebracht werden sollen. Die Structural Database of Allergenic Proteins (SDAP) ist eine Datenbank mit Allergensequenzen, -strukturen und -epitopen, verknüpft mit Bioinformatik-Tools für Sequenzanalysen und -vergleiche. Die Immune Epitope Database (IEDB) ist die größte Sammlung von T-Zell-, B-Zell- und Haupthistokompatibilitätskomplex-Epitopen einschließlich Allergen-Epitopen. AllFam ordnet Allergene verschiedenen Familien evolutionär verwandter Proteine zu, aufbauend auf Definitionen aus der Proteinfamilien-Datenbank Pfam. Diese Datenbanken enthalten großteils überlappende Daten, unterscheiden sich aber im Hinblick auf die Nutzerzielgruppe, die Kriterien für die Aufnahme von Allergenen, die für die einzelnen Allergene erfassten Daten und die Verfügbarkeit von Bioinformatik-Tools. Übersetzung aus Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2017;173:1-11 (DOI: 10.1159/000471806)
Increased Retinal Thinning after Combination of Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling and Silicone Oil Endotamponade in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Kaneko Hiroki , Matsuura Toshiyuki , Takayama Kei , Ito Yasuki , Iwase Takeshi , Ueno Shinji , Nonobe Norie , Yasuda Shunsuke , Kataoka Keiko , Terasaki Hiroko
Published: August 2017

Background: The aim of this study was to examine the change in retinal thickness after vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and/or silicone oil (SO) endotamponade in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Methods: The actual amount and ratio of changes in the retinal thickness were calculated. Results: Compared to control eyes in the ILM peeling (-)/SO (-) group, the central, superior inner, and temporal inner retina in the ILM peeling (+)/SO (-) group, the central and superior inner retina in the ILM peeling (-)/SO (+) group, and the central, inferior inner, temporal inner, and nasal inner retina in the ILM peeling (+)/SO (+) group showed a significant reduction of the retinal thickness. The central, superior inner, and temporal inner retina in the ILM peeling (+)/SO (-) group, the central and superior inner retina in the ILM peeling (-)/SO (+) group, and the central, superior inner, inferior inner, and temporal inner retina in the ILM peeling (+)/SO (+) group showed a significantly increased reduction rate of the retinal thickness compared to the control group. Conclusions: Macular retinal thinning in PDR was observed after ILM peeling and SO endotamponade, and it was increased by the combination of these 2 factors.
Impact of Shunt FACTS Devices on Security Constrained Unit Commitment
Authors: Hajivar G. A. M. Hosaini , Mortazavi S. S.
Published: August 2017

Shunt FACTS Devices (SFD) would play an important role in maintaining security and reduce total generation cost in the economical operation of power systems. The application of this device to the AC model of securityconstrained unit commitment (SCUC) for the day ahead scheduling is presented in this paper. The proposed AC model of SCUC with SFD would include active and reactive power flow constraints which increase the network controllability at normal operation and contingency. A general SFD model is introduced for the reactive power management in SCUC which is based on the reactive power injection model (RPIM). The case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the SFD application to SCUC with AC network constraints. Meanwhile simulation results demonstrate the combined use of these devices to SCUC have a significant impact on maintaining network security, preventing load shedding, lower total generation cost and increase using the maximum capacity of the existing transmission network.
Proposed An Intelligent System for Electricity Theft Detector at Smart City Scenarios
Authors: Fuada Syifaul
Published: August 2017

This is a conceptual proposal which is aimed at describing an intelligent security system to early detect cases of electricity theft which is claimed effective to cope with ICT based cases of electrecity theft. The method employed in the detector is computation system, which is the computation of phase differences (Φ), current voltage in real time and losses detection of electrical power grid by 220V. The losses calculation employs Kirchoff’s law I which is Kirchoff’s current law. The current sensors are put on the output distribution transformer and on customer’s APP connection. The working principles are (1) reading output current and phase differences at the load point (of the customer’s) in the distribution transformer using the current sensor, (2) comparing the output current (Io) with the sum of certain variables on consumers to be discussed in this paper. (3) Knowing the data of electric current usage by recording data of losses in real time and by sending them to teh control center monitoring in in real time.
Transient Analysis of Switching the Distributed Generation Units in Distribution Networks
Authors: Vatani Mehrnoosh
Published: August 2017

Adding distributed Generators (DGs) to the passive electrical networks causes major changes in the specifications of the network including voltage profile, short circuit level and transient stability. In this paper, the effect of DGs switching transient in network is considered. The DGs location are changed in different buses. Two types of DGs are used (i.e. wind and synchronous DGs). Switching transient signals are time variant. It has a continuous spectrum of frequency. Fast Fourier and Wavelet transform methods are used for transient analysis. The proposed method is applied to IEEE-13 Bus distribution system.
An Analytical Approach for DG Placement in Reconfigured Distribution Networks
Authors: Nawaz Sarfaraz , Bansal Ajay , Sharma M. P.
Published: August 2017

A novel approach is proposed in this paper for optimal placement of DG units in reconfigured distribution system with the aim of reduction of real power losses while satisfying operating constraints. The proposed analytical method for optimal DG placement is developed based on a new mathematical formulation. Type-I and type-II DG units are used here. The results of the proposed technique are validated on IEEE 69 bus distribution system. The level of DG penetration is also considered in a range of 0–50% of total system load. A novel index is also proposed which incorporates level of DG penetration and percentage reduction in real power losses. The results are promising when compared with recently proposed algorithms.
A Step Down Transformerless Single Switch Integerated Buck and Buck-Boost Converter
Authors: Maithili P. , Tharani C. , Nivedha J. , Soundarrajan D.
Published: August 2017

This paper presents about the designing of the controller for integrated Buck Buck-Boost converter for maintaining the constant DC output voltage. This constant output voltage can be used for low voltage application. The absence of transformer includes the advantages of losses is less, efficient power factor and high efficiency. It provides the simple control structure with the positive constant output voltage .It operates on the closed loop with the designing of the PI controller for a MOSFET switch to provide the gate pulse. Whatever may be the input voltage it will produce the constant output voltage. The converter is successfully done by using MAT Lab/Simulink and verified the error reducing to negligible values.
Small Scale Wind Generation System: Part II – A Novel Quasi-Z-Source Inverter and FRG-QZSI-Micro Grid Interface
Authors: Ramkumar M. , Srinivas K. N.
Published: August 2017

This paper proposes modelling, analysis and control of a small scale wind energy conversion system employing a direct driven Flux Reversal Generator (FRG) connected to the micro grid through a quasi-Z-source inverter (QZSI). This entire research is made up of two major parts viz., FRG and QZSI. In the part I report of this research work, the role of FRG has been thoroughly modelled and verified. In this part II, the modelling and analysis of QZSI for this purpose is presented. In addition, the modified space vector PWM (SVPWM) technique is proposed in this paper to satisfy the shoot-through characteristic of QZSI, which is a novel. The interface of FRG and QZSI to inject power in to micro grid has been finally presented. The simulation results are validated with the analytical results. Section I discusses the open loop control of QZSI. The mathematical modelling of QZSI for this purpose is given and analytically validated. This flowed by section II in which the proposed SVPWM is presented. The procedure to obtain triggering pulses using this proposed modulation technique is discussed. Section III presents closed loop control strategies for QZSI. Section IV presents the micro grid
inte face and power injection.
Stator Inter-turn Fault Detection in Inverter Fed Induction Motor Drives
Authors: Siddiqui Khadim Moin , Sahay Kuldeep , Giri V.K.
Published: August 2017

The Squirrel Cage Induction motor(SCIM) with advanced power electronic inverters presents the greater advantages on cost and energy efficiency as compared with other industrial solutions for varying speed applications. In recent, the inverter fed induction motors are being popular in the industries. These inverter fed-motors are recently gathering great recognition for multi-megawatt industrial drive applications. In this present paper, a dynamic simulation model of PWM inverter fed SCIM with direct torque control jointly has been presented and analyzed in the recent MATLAB/Simulink environment. From the proposed simulation model, the transient behavior of SCIM has been analysed for healthy as well as for stator inter-turn fault condition. The dynamic simulation of induction motor is one of the key steps in the validation of design process of the electric motor and drive system. It is extremely needed for eliminating probable faults beforehand due to inadvertent design mistakes and changes during operation. The simulated model gives encouraging results with reduced harmonics [1]. By using the model, the successful detection of stator inter-turn fault of the SCIM is carried out in the transient condition. Therefore, early stator fault detection is possible and may avoid the motor to reach in the catastrophic conditions. Therefore, may save millions of dollars for industries.
An STATCOM-Based Hybrid Shunt Compensation Scheme Capable of Damping Subsynchronous Resonance
Authors: Mehdizadeh F Reyhaneh , Nazarpour Daryoush
Published: August 2017

The paper presents the potential use of supplemental control of a new economical phase imbalanced shunt compensation concept for damping Sub Synchronous Resonance (SSR) oscillations. In this scheme, the shunt capacitive compensation in one phase is created by using a single-phase Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) in parallel with a fixed capacitor ( ), and the other two phases are compensated by fixed shunt capacitor (C). The proposed arrangement would, certainly, be economically attractive when compared with a full three-phase STATCOM which have been used/proposed for power swings and SSR damping. SSR mitigation is achieved by introducing a supplemental signal into the control loops of single phase STATCOM. The validity and effectiveness of the proposed structure and supplemental control are demonstrated on a modified version of the IEEE second benchmark model for computer simulation of sub synchronous resonance by means of time domain simulation analysis using the Matlab program.
Surgical and Catheter-Based Reinterventions Are Common in Long-Term Survivors of the Fontan Operation
Authors: Downing Tacy E. , Allen Kiona Y. , Goldberg David J. , Rogers Lindsay S. , Ravishankar Chitra , Rychik Jack , Fuller Stephanie , Montenegro Lisa M. , Steven James M. , Gillespie Matthew J. , Rome Jonathan J. , Spray Thomas L. , Nicolson Susan C. , Gaynor J. William , Glatz Andrew C.
Published: August 2017

Background—

There are limited follow-up studies examining surgical and catheter-based reinterventions in long-term survivors of the Fontan operation.

Methods and Results—

All 773 patients who underwent Fontan at our institution between 1992 and 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. Current information regarding post-Fontan intervention was available for 70%. By 20 years after Fontan, 65% of patients had experienced either surgical or transcatheter intervention. The median time to first reintervention was 9.8 years. Freedom from reoperation was 69% at 15 years and 63% at 20 years. The most common operations were pacemaker placement and Fontan revision. Risk factors for pacemaker placement included systemic left ventricle (hazard ratio [HR], 2.2;
P
=0.006) and lateral tunnel Fontan (HR, 4.3;
P
=0.001). Freedom from interventional catheterization was 53% at 15 years and 50% at 20 years. The most common procedures performed were fenestration closure and pulmonary artery intervention. Catheter intervention for anatomic indications was associated with Fontan after 2002 (HR, 2.1;
P
=0.007), Norwood operation (HR, 2.3;
P
=0.001), and longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (HR, 1.1 per 10 minutes;
P
=0.001). Catheter intervention for physiological indications was associated with prolonged post-Fontan pleural drainage (HR, 4.0;
P
<0.001) and hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HR, 2.0;
P
=0.01).

Conclusions—

In this study of Fontan survivors, two thirds of patients required surgical or catheter-based reintervention by 20 years. Families should be counseled that the Fontan is typically not the final stage of single-ventricle palliation.
Description of Abnormal Breathing Is Associated With Improved Outcomes and Delayed Telephone Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Instructions
Authors: Fukushima Hidetada , Panczyk Micah , Hu Chengcheng , Dameff Christian , Chikani Vatsal , Vadeboncoeur Tyler , Spaite Daniel W. , Bobrow Bentley J.
Published: August 2017

Background

Emergency 9‐1‐1 callers use a wide range of terms to describe abnormal breathing in persons with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (
OHCA
). These breathing descriptors can obstruct the telephone cardiopulmonary resuscitation (
CPR
) process.

Methods and Results

We conducted an observational study of emergency call audio recordings linked to confirmed
OHCA
s in a statewide Utstein‐style database. Breathing descriptors fell into 1 of 8 groups (eg, gasping, snoring). We divided the study population into groups with and without descriptors for abnormal breathing to investigate the impact of these descriptors on patient outcomes and telephone
CPR
process. Callers used descriptors in 459 of 2411 cases (19.0%) between October 1, 2010, and December 31, 2014. Survival outcome was better when the caller used a breathing descriptor (19.6% versus 8.8%,
P
<0.0001), with an odds ratio of 1.63 (95% confidence interval, 1.17–2.25). After exclusions, 379 of 459 cases were eligible for process analysis. When callers described abnormal breathing, the rates of telecommunicator
OHCA
recognition,
CPR
instruction, and telephone
CPR
were lower than when callers did not use a breathing descriptor (79.7% versus 93.0%,
P
<0.0001; 65.4% versus 72.5%,
P
=0.0078; and 60.2% versus 66.9%,
P
=0.0123, respectively). The time interval between call receipt and
OHCA
recognition was longer when the caller used a breathing descriptor (118.5 versus 73.5 seconds,
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions

Descriptors of abnormal breathing are associated with improved outcomes but also with delays in the identification of
OHCA
. Familiarizing telecommunicators with these descriptors may improve the telephone
CPR
process including
OHCA
recognition for patients with increased probability of survival.
Infant handling enhances social bonds in free-ranging rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Dunayer Erica S. , Berman Carol M.
Published: August 2017

Throughout the primate order, individuals are highly motivated to handle infants that are not their own. Given the differing and often conflicting interests of the various participants in handling interactions (handler, infant, and mother), most functional hypotheses are specific to particular handling roles. Here we explore one hypothesis that may apply to all participants, but that has received relatively little attention: that handling may facilitate the formation and maintenance of social bonds. Using free-ranging rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) on Cayo Santiago, we examine the relationship between infant handling in the early weeks and the strength and diversity of infant social bonds months later, when infant relationships were more independent from those of their mothers. Our results largely confirm the influence of several social characteristics (kinship, rank, sex, and age) in governing handling interactions. They also provide the first evidence that early handling is associated with later social bonds that are stronger than expected based on these social characteristics. However, the enhancement of bonds is largely confined to related handlers; frequent unrelated handlers did not generally go on to form strong bonds with infants. This suggests that kinship may be a sort of prerequisite to the enhancement of social bonds via handling. Given the adaptive benefits of strong social bonds among adult primates, future research should investigate whether early infant handling may have longer term fitness effects.
A new species of squat lobster of the genus Munida (Galatheoidea, Munididae) from the Red Sea
Authors: Macpherson E. , Beuck L. , Roder C. , Voolstra C. R.
Published: August 2017

During a deep-water expedition to the Red Sea in 2013, an unusual specimen of squat lobster belonging to the genus Munida was collected off Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, at a depth of 320 m. This specimen is unique in having the pterygostomial flap visible from the dorsal side, the feature linking it to two eastern Pacific species, M. bapensis Hendrickx, 2000 and M. macrobrachia Hendrickx, 2003. The new species (M. tuerkayi) is readily distinguished from the eastern Pacific species by having the gastric region with numerous instead of less numerous spines, by having sternite 7 with three distinct carinae on each side, and by having the antennular basal article with two distal spines subequal instead of different in size. Munida tuerkayi was found associated with live colonies of the scleractinian coral Eguchipsammia fistula (Alcock, 1902).
Polymorphism in the chelae of mature males of the land crabs Johngarthia lagostoma and Epigrapsus spp.
Authors: Hartnoll Richard G. , Weber Nicola , Weber Sam B. , Liu Hung-Chang
Published: August 2017

The growth of the chelae of mature males was examined in three gecarcinid land crabs — Johngarthia lagostoma on Ascension Island, Epigrapsus notatus on Taiwan, and E. politus on Moorea. Chelar dimorphism was found in each species, with a mixture of homochelous and heterochelous males. In J. lagostoma there was progressive polymorphism, with the heterochelous condition appearing only in a proportion of the larger mature males. The situation in Epigrapsus was less clear. The proportion of heterochelous males increased in the larger mature size classes, but progressive polymorphism is yet to be confirmed.
Arcotheres borradailei (Nobili, 1906) and Pinnotheres ridgewayi Southwell, 1911: a reassessment of characters and generic assignment of species to Arcotheres Manning, 1993 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Pinnotheridae)
Authors: Ng Peter K. L. , Clark Paul F. , Mitra Santanu , Kumar Appukuttannair Biju
Published: August 2017

The identity of the pea crab, Arcotheres borradailei (Nobili, 1906) is clarified. The holotype female is re-diagnosed, figured and its recent generic assignment to Arcotheres Manning, 1993, is discussed. A second poorly known species from India and Sri Lanka that resembles A. borradailei, Pinnotheres ridgewayi Southwell, 1911, is redescribed and assigned to Arcotheres. In addition, Pinnotheres sinensis atrinae Sakai, 1939, and Pinnotheres cyclinus Shen, 1932, from East Asia are re-examined and also referred to Arcotheres.