bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composite Antidisturbance Control for a Class of Nonlinear Stochastic Systems via Disturbance Observer
Authors: Liu Yunlong , Zhang Yumin , Yao Xiuming
Published: December 2013

The stabilization problem is investigated in this paper for a class of nonlinear systems with disturbances. The disturbances are supposed to be classified into two types. One type in the input channel is generated by an exogenous system, which can represent the constant or harmonic signals with unknown phase and magnitude. The other type is stochastic disturbance. Two kinds of nonlinear dynamics in the plants are considered, respectively, which correspond to the known and unknown functions. By integrating the disturbance observers with conventional control method, the first type of disturbances can be estimated and rejected. Simultaneously, the desired dynamic performances can be guaranteed. An example is given to show the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Two-Speed DCT Electric Powertrain Shifting Control and Rig Testing
Authors: Zhu Bo , Zhang Nong , Walker Paul , Zhan Wenzhang , Zhou Xingxing , Ruan Jiageng
Published: December 2013

Dual clutch transmissions (DCTs) are recognized as being suitable for electric drive applications as they can drive with high efficiency and achieve good shifting comfort. A two-speed DCT electric drivetrain is described in this paper, comprised of only two gear pairs and a final drive gear in the two-speed gearbox. The fundamental shifting control algorithm is provided. On the testing rig of University of Technology, Sydney (UTS) powertrain lab, shifting controls and some driving cycle controls were realized. The results demonstrated that the control algorithm functioned well both in transient shifting control process and in the driving cycle conditions.
Therapeutic Applications of Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Knauert Melissa , Vangala Sandeep , Haslip Maria , Lee Patty J.
Published: December 2013

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a regulated enzyme induced in multiple stress states. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a product of HO catalysis of heme. In many circumstances, CO appears to functionally replace HO-1, and CO is known to have endogenous anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antiproliferative effects. CO is well studied in anoxia-reoxygenation and ischemia-reperfusion models and has advanced to phase II trials for treatment of several clinical entities. In alternative injury models, laboratories have used sepsis, acute lung injury, and systemic inflammatory challenges to assess the ability of CO to rescue cells, organs, and organisms. Hopefully, the research supporting the protective effects of CO in animal models will translate into therapeutic benefits for patients. Preclinical studies of CO are now moving towards more complex damage models that reflect polymicrobial sepsis or two-step injuries, such as sepsis complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome. Furthermore, co-treatment and post-treatment with CO are being explored in which the insult occurs before there is an opportunity to intervene therapeutically. The aim of this review is to discuss the potential therapeutic implications of CO with a focus on lung injury and sepsis-related models.
Antioxidative and Cardioprotective Properties of Anthocyanins from Defatted Dabai Extracts
Authors: Khoo Hock Eng , Azlan Azrina , Nurulhuda M. Halid , Ismail Amin , Abas Faridah , Hamid Muhajir , Roowi Suri
Published: December 2013

This study aimed to determine anthocyanins and their antioxidative and cardioprotective properties in defatted dabai parts. Anthocyanins in crude extracts and extract fractions of defatted dabai peel and pericarp were quantified using UHPLC, while their antioxidant capacity and oxidative stress inhibition ability were evaluated by using DPPH and CUPRAC assays as well as linoleic acid oxidation system, hemoglobin oxidation, and PARP-1 inhibition ELISA. Cardioprotective effect of the defatted dabai peel extract was evaluated using hypercholesterolemic-induced New Zealand white rabbits. Six anthocyanins were detected in the defatted dabai peel, with the highest antioxidant capacities and oxidative stress inhibition effect compared to the other part. The defatted dabai peel extract has also inhibited lipid peroxidation (plasma MDA) and elevated cellular antioxidant enzymes (SOD and GPx) in the tested animal model. Major anthocyanin (cyanidin-3-glucoside) and other anthocyanins (pelargonidin-3-glucoside, malvidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-galactoside, cyanidin-3-arabinoside, and peonidin-3-glucoside) detected in the defatted dabai peel are potential future nutraceuticals with promising medicinal properties.
mHealth in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Betjeman Thomas J. , Soghoian Samara E. , Foran Mark P.
Published: December 2013

Mobile phone penetration rates have reached 63% in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and are projected to pass 70% by 2013. In SSA, millions of people who never used traditional landlines now use mobile phones on a regular basis. Mobile health, or mHealth, is the utilization of short messaging service (SMS), wireless data transmission, voice calling, and smartphone applications to transmit health-related information or direct care. This systematic review analyzes and summarizes key articles from the current body of peer-reviewed literature on PubMed on the topic of mHealth in SSA. Studies included in the review demonstrate that mHealth can improve and reduce the cost of patient monitoring, medication adherence, and healthcare worker communication, especially in rural areas. mHealth has also shown initial promise in emergency and disaster response, helping standardize, store, analyze, and share patient information. Challenges for mHealth implementation in SSA include operating costs, knowledge, infrastructure, and policy among many others. Further studies of the effectiveness of mHealth interventions are being hindered by similar factors as well as a lack of standardization in study design. Overall, the current evidence is not strong enough to warrant large-scale implementation of existing mHealth interventions in SSA, but rapid progress of both infrastructure and mHealth-related research in the region could justify scale-up of the most promising programs in the near future.
The Effect of Conditioned Media of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells on Wound Healing after Ablative Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser Resurfacing
Authors: Zhou Bing-Rong , Xu Yang , Guo Shi-Lei , Xu Yan , Wang Ying , Zhu Fen , Permatasari Felicia , Wu Di , Yin Zhi-Qiang , Luo Dan
Published: December 2013

Objective.To evaluate the benefits of conditioned medium of Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC-CM) on wound healing after fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing (FxCR) on human skin.Materials and Methods.Nineteen subjects were treated with FxCR on the bilateral inner arms. ADSC-CM was applied on FxCR site of one randomly selected arm. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin color, and gross-elasticity of FxCR site on both arms were measured. Skin samples were taken by biopsy from three subjects 3 weeks after treatment for histopathological manifestations and mRNA expressions of procollagen types I and III, elastin genes were noted.Results.The index of erythema, melanin, and TEWL of the ADSC-CM-treated skin were significantly lower than those of the control side. The mRNA expression of type III procollagen in ADSC-CM-treated group at 3 weeks posttreatment was 2.6 times of that of the control group.Conclusion.Application of allograft ADSC-CM is an effective method for enhancing wound healing after FxCR, by reducing transient adverse effects such as erythema, hyperpigmentation, and increased TEWL.
Effect of Same‐Temperature GaN Cap Layer on the InGaN/GaN Multiquantum Well of Green Light‐Emitting Diode on Silicon Substrate
Authors: Zheng Changda , Wang Li , Mo Chunlan , Fang Wenqing , Jiang Fengyi
Published: December 2013

GaN green LED was grown on Si (111) substrate by MOCVD. To enhance the quality of InGaN/GaN MQWs, same‐temperature (ST) GaN protection layers with different thickness of 8 Å, 15 Å, and 30 Å were induced after the InGaN quantum wells (QWs) layer. Results show that a relative thicker cap layer is benefit to get InGaN QWs with higher In percent at fixed well temperature and obtain better QW/QB interface. As the cap thickness increases, the indium distribution becomes homogeneous as verified by fluorescence microscope (FLM). The interface of MQWs turns to be abrupt from XRD analysis. The intensity of photoluminescence (PL) spectrum is increased and the FWHM becomes narrow.
Diplopia due to Dacryops
Authors: Duman Rahmi , Duman Reşat , Balcı Mehmet
Published: December 2013

Dacryops is a lacrimal ductal cyst. It is known that it can cause globe displacement, motility restriction, and proptosis because of the mass effect. Diplopia due to dacryops has not been reported previously. Here, we present a 57-year-old man with binocular horizontal diplopia that occurred during left direction gaze due to dacryops.
A Comparative Validation Study of Fluconazole by HPLC and UPLC with Forced Degradation Study
Authors: Jebaliya Hetal , Patel Madhavi , Jadeja Yashwant , Dabhi Batuk , Shah Anamik
Published: December 2013

The simplest stability indicating reversed phase Isocratic HPLC and UPLC methods has been developed and validated for the determination of fluconazole in bulk and solid pharmaceutical dosage form. A SunFire C18 (250 × 4.5 mm, 5 μm particle size) column has been used for HPLC and BEH C18 (100 × 2.1 mm, 1.7 μm particle size) column used for UPLC. The Mobile phase consisted of Methanol : Water (70 : 30) for HPLC and Methanol : Water (55 : 45 v/v) for UPLC. Isocratic flow was set at 1 mL/min and 0.30 mL/min, respectively, for HPLC and UPLC. For both HPLC and UPLC system detection has been performed at 211 nm with 30°C column oven temperature (good elution was obtained at 30°C) and injection volume, respectively, 2 μL and 20 μL for HPLC and UPLC.
Influential Node Control Strategy for Opinion Evolution on Social Networks
Authors: Ju Cheng , Cao Jinde , Zhang Weiqi , Ji Mengxin
Published: December 2013

We study opinion dynamics in social networks and present a new strategy to control the invasive opinion. A developed continuous-opinion evolution model is proposed to describe the mechanism of making decision in closed community. Two basic strategies of evolution are determined, and some basic features of our new model are analyzed. We study the different invasive strategies. It is shown via using Monte Carlo simulations that our new model shows different invulnerability with traditional model. Node degree and cohesion in invasive small-world community plays less significant role when the evolution of opinion is continuous rather than dichotomous. Using simulation, we find one kind of Influential Nodes that can affect the outcome dramatically, while these Influential Nodes are sensitive to their node degree and the evolution weight. Thus, we develop invasive control strategy based on these features.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of VEGFR2 with Sorafenib and Other Urea-Substituted Aryloxy Compounds
Authors: Meng Fancui
Published: December 2013

The binding mode of sorafenib with VEGFR2 was studied using molecular docking and molecular dynamics method. The docking results show that sorafenib forms hydrogen bonds with Asp1046, Cys919, and Glu885 of VEGFR2 receptor. Molecular dynamics simulation suggests that the hydrogen bond involving Asp1046 is the most stable one, and it is almost preserved during all the MD simulation time. The hydrogen bond formed with Cys919 occurs frequently after 6 ns, while the bifurcated hydrogen bonds involving Glu885 occurs occasionally. Meantime, molecular dynamics simulations of VEGFR2 with 11 other urea-substituted aryloxy compounds have also been performed, and the results indicate that a potent VEGFR2 inhibitor should have lower interaction energy with VEGFR2 and create at least 2 hydrogen bonds with VEGFR2.
Hepatic Expression of Metallothionein I/II, Glycoprotein 96, IL-6, and TGF-βin Rat Strains with Different Susceptibilities to Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Grubić-Kezele Tanja , Blagojević Zagorac Gordana , Jakovac Hrvoje , Domitrović Robert , Milin Čedomila , Radošević-Stašić Biserka
Published: December 2013

In a search of peripheral factors that could be responsible for the discrepancy in susceptibility to EAE in Albino Oxford (AO) and Dark Agouti (DA) rats, we estimated the expression of metallothioneins I/II (MT), heat shock protein-gp96, interleukin (IL)-6, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-βin the livers of these animals. Rats were immunized with bovine brain homogenate (BBH) emulsified in complete Freund adjuvant (CFA) or only with CFA. Western blot and immunohistochemical analyses were done on day 12 after the immunization, as well as in intact rats. The data have shown that during the first attack of EAE only the EAE prone-DA rats markedly upregulated the hepatic MTs, gp96, IL-6, and TGF-β. In contrast, AO rats had a significantly higher expression of MT I/II, IL-6, and TGF-βin intact liver (P<0,001), suggesting that the greater constitutive expression of these proteins contributed to the resistance of EAE. Besides, since previously we found that AO rats reacted on immunization by an early upregulation of TGF-βon several hepatic structures (vascular endothelium, Kupffer cells, and hepatocytes), the data suggest that the specific hepatic microenvironment might contribute also to the faster recovery of these rats from EAE.
Global Asymptotic Stability of a Family of Nonlinear Difference Equations
Authors: Liao Maoxin
Published: December 2013

In this note, we consider global asymptotic stability of the following nonlinear difference equationxn=(∏i=1v(xn-kiβi+1)+∏i=1v(xn-kiβi-1))/(∏i=1v(xn-kiβi+1)-∏i=1v(xn-kiβi-1)),  n=0,1,…, whereki∈ℕ  (i=1,2,…,v),  v≥2,β1∈[-1,1],β2,β3,…,βv∈(-∞,+∞),x-m,x-m+1,…,x-1∈(0,∞), andm=max1≤i≤v{ki}. Our result generalizes the corresponding results in the recent literature and simultaneously conforms to a conjecture in the work by Berenhaut et al. (2007).
The Effects of Exercise Training on Obesity-Induced Dysregulated Expression of Adipokines in White Adipose Tissue
Authors: Sakurai Takuya , Ogasawara Junetsu , Kizaki Takako , Sato Shogo , Ishibashi Yoshinaga , Takahashi Motoko , Kobayashi Osamu , Oh-ishi Shuji , Nagasawa Junichi , Takahashi Kazuto , Ishida Hitoshi , Izawa Tetsuya , Ohno Hideki
Published: December 2013

Obesity is recognized as a risk factor for lifestyle-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. White adipose tissue (WAT) is not only a static storage site for energy; it is also a dynamic tissue that is actively involved in metabolic reactions and produces humoral factors, such as leptin and adiponectin, which are collectively referred to as adipokines. Additionally, because there is much evidence that obesity-induced inflammatory changes in WAT, which is caused by dysregulated expression of inflammation-related adipokines involving tumor necrosis factor-αand monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, contribute to the development of insulin resistance, WAT has attracted special attention as an organ that causes diabetes and other lifestyle-related diseases. Exercise training (TR) not only leads to a decrease in WAT mass but also attenuates obesity-induced dysregulated expression of the inflammation-related adipokines in WAT. Therefore, TR is widely used as a tool for preventing and improving lifestyle-related diseases. This review outlines the impact of TR on the expression and secretory response of adipokines in WAT.
Semiphysical Modelling of the Nonlinear Dynamics of a Surface Craft with LS-SVM
Authors: Moreno-Salinas David , Chaos Dictino , Besada-Portas Eva , López-Orozco José Antonio , de la Cruz Jesús M. , Aranda Joaquín
Published: December 2013

One of the most important problems in many research fields is the development of reliable mathematical models with good predictive ability to simulate experimental systems accurately. Moreover, in some of these fields, as marine systems, these models play a key role due to the changing environmental conditions and the complexity and high cost of the infrastructure needed to carry out experimental tests. In this paper, a semiphysical modelling technique based on least-squares support vector machines (LS-SVM) is proposed to determine a nonlinear mathematical model of a surface craft. The speed and steering equations of the nonlinear model of Blanke are determined analysing the rudder angle, surge and sway speeds, and yaw rate from real experimental data measured from a zig-zag manoeuvre made by a scale ship. The predictive ability of the model is tested with different manoeuvring experimental tests to show the good performance and prediction ability of the model computed.
A Bauer-Hausdorff Matrix Inequality
Authors: Yan Zizong , Wu Shanhe
Published: December 2013

We present a biorthogonal process for two subspaces ofℂn. Applying this process, we derive a matrix inequality, which generalizes the Bauer-Hausdorff inequality for vectors and includes the Wang-IP inequality for matrices. Meanwhile, we obtain its equivalent matrix inequality.
Stabilization of Discrete-Time Markovian Jump Systems via Controllers with Partially Mode-Dependent Characterization
Authors: Zhai Chunyan , Xue Dingyu , Li Shuchen , Wang Guoliang
Published: December 2013

A kind of stabilizing controller in terms of being partially mode-dependent is developed for discrete-time Markovian jump systems (MJSs). The property referred to be partially mode-dependent is described by the Bernoulli variable. Based on the established model, the stabilization for MJSs over unreliable networks is considered, where both network-induced delay and packet dropout take place in system modes and states. Such effects of network are taken into account in controller design. All the conditions are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, illustrative examples are presented to show the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed method.
Experimental Study on the Properties and Displacement Effects of Polymer Surfactant Solution
Authors: Wang Ke-Liang , Zhang Lei-Lei , Li Xue , Ming Yang-Yang
Published: December 2013

Based on the characteristics of oil reservoirs and the requirements of further enhancing oil recovery at high water cut stage of Pubei Oilfield, the displacement performance of polymer surfactant is evaluated. Reasonable injection parameters and oil displacement effects after water flooding are also researched. Compared with conventional polymer with intermediate molecular weight, polymer surfactant has the properties of higher viscosity at low concentration condition and lower interfacial tension. Laboratory experiments indicate that the displacement effect of polymer surfactant is much better than that of conventional polymer at a slug size of 0.57 PV. The oil recovery of polymer surfactant increases by more than 10% after water flooding. Considering the actual situation of low‐permeability of Pubei Oilfield reservoirs, the system viscosity of 30 mPa·s is chosen. The corresponding concentration of Type III polymer surfactant is 600 mg/L and the injected slug is 0.57 PV and the oil recovery can be increased by 11.69%.
The Efficacy and Safety of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Jiang Zhi Granule) for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver: A Multicenter, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Pan Jielu , Wang Miao , Song Haiyan , Wang Lin , Ji Guang
Published: December 2013

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Jiang Zhi Granule (JZG), a Chinese herbal formula, in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL).Methods. A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel clinical trial was conducted for 24 weeks in 224 patients with NAFL at 6 university-affiliated hospitals. Patients were randomized 1 : 1 to receive JZG and placebo, respectively. Primary outcome was the change of liver to spleen ratio (L/S ratio) over computed tomography (CT). Secondary outcomes included body mass index (BMI), serum triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) levels.Results. Of all the 224 eligible patients, 221 patients were analyzed in the full analysis set (FAS), 205 in the per protocol set (PPS), and 3 patients were withdrawn prematurely. For FAS, JZG significantly increased L/S ratio from 0.74 ± 0.21 to 0.99 ± 0.24 compared to that from 0.79 ± 0.18 to 0.85 ± 0.27 in placebo group (P=0.0011). For PPS, it showed an increase of 0.26 ± 0.23 of L/S ratio in the patients on JZG versus 0.07 ± 0.22 in those on placebo (P=0.0003). Superiority of JZG over placebo was also observed with greater reduction in BMI (P<0.05) in both FAS and PPS. No observable difference in decrease of serum TC and TG was recorded (P>0.05). There were no serious adverse events (AEs) in the study process and safety indices were normal in both groups.Conclusions. The Chinese herbal formula JZG was found to be superior to placebo in increasing L/S ratio and reducing BMI in NAFL patients. It was also well tolerated in patients and might be a safe and effective medicine for NAFL.
Inverse Analysis and Modeling for Tunneling Thrust on Shield Machine
Authors: Zhang Qian , Kang Yilan , Zheng Zheng , Wang Lihui
Published: December 2013

With the rapid development of sensor and detection technologies, measured data analysis plays an increasingly important role in the design and control of heavy engineering equipment. The paper proposed a method for inverse analysis and modeling based on mass on-site measured data, in which dimensional analysis and data mining techniques were combined. The method was applied to the modeling of the tunneling thrust on shield machines and an explicit expression for thrust prediction was established. Combined with on-site data from a tunneling project in China, the inverse identification of model coefficients was carried out using the multiple regression method. The model residual was analyzed by statistical methods. By comparing the on-site data and the model predicted results in the other two projects with different tunneling conditions, the feasibility of the model was discussed. The work may provide a scientific basis for the rational design and control of shield tunneling machines and also a new way for mass on-site data analysis of complex engineering systems with nonlinear, multivariable, time-varying characteristics.
A Population-Based Evaluation of Cervical Screening in the United States: 2008–2011
Authors: Cuzick Jack , Myers Orrin , Hunt William C. , Robertson Michael , Joste Nancy E. , Castle Philip E. , Benard Vicki B. , Wheeler Cosette M.
Published: December 2013

Background: Cervical screening consumes substantial resources, but little is known about utilization in the United States or compliance with guideline recommendations.

Methods: To describe population screening coverage, utilization, and outcomes and examine time trends from 2008 to 2011, cervical cytology reports from women residing in New Mexico (981,063 tests from 511,381 women) were evaluated.

Results: From 2008 to 2011 cervical screening utilization decreased at all ages, but especially in younger women, with a two-third reduction at ages 15 to 20 years. Ninety-four percent of women ages 25 to 29 years were screened within 48 months but coverage decreased at older ages to 69% at 45 to 49 years and 55% at 60 to 64 years. Intervals between screening tests were significantly longer in 2011 compared with 2008 [HR = 1.23; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 1.22–1.24], although the commonest rescreening interval was 13 months. In 2011, 91.9% of screening tests for women ages 21 to 65 years were negative, 6.6% showed minor abnormalities, and 1.0% high-grade abnormalities. High-grade abnormality rates were relatively constant over time, but minor abnormalities and atypical cells cannot rule out high-grade (ASC-H) were increasing.

Conclusions: This population-based evaluation of cervical screening shows high coverage under the age of 40 years, but lower levels in older women. Screening under age 21 years is becoming less common and screening intervals are lengthening, reflecting updates in national screening guidelines.

Impact: Assessment of cervical screening intervals and population outcomes is essential for accurately estimating the impact and effectiveness of changing recommendations and vaccination against human papilloma virus infections. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(5); 765–73. ©2013 AACR.
PID1 (NYGGF4), a New Growth-Inhibitory Gene in Embryonal Brain Tumors and Gliomas
Authors: Erdreich-Epstein Anat , Robison Nathan , Ren Xiuhai , Zhou Hong , Xu Jingying , Davidson Tom B. , Schur Mathew , Gilles Floyd H. , Ji Lingyun , Malvar Jemily , Shackleford Gregory M. , Margol Ashley S. , Krieger Mark D. , Judkins Alexander R. , Jones David T.W. , Pfister Stefan M. , Kool Marcel , Sposto Richard , Asgharazadeh Shahab
Published: December 2013

Purpose: We present here the first report of PID1 (Phosphotyrosine Interaction Domain containing 1; NYGGF4) in cancer. PID1 was identified in 2006 as a gene that modulates insulin signaling and mitochondrial function in adipocytes and muscle cells.

Experimental Design and Results: Using four independent medulloblastoma datasets, we show that mean PID1 mRNA levels were lower in unfavorable medulloblastomas (groups 3 and 4, and anaplastic histology) compared with favorable medulloblastomas (SHH and WNT groups, and desmoplastic/nodular histology) and with fetal cerebellum. In two large independent glioma datasets, PID1 mRNA was lower in glioblastomas (GBM), the most malignant gliomas, compared with other astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas and nontumor brains. Neural and proneural GBM subtypes had higher PID1 mRNA compared with classical and mesenchymal GBM. Importantly, overall survival and radiation-free progression-free survival were longer in medulloblastoma patients whose tumors had higher PID1 mRNA (univariate and multivariate analyses). Higher PID1 mRNA also correlated with longer overall survival in patients with glioma and GBM. In cell culture, overexpression of PID1 inhibited colony formation in medulloblastoma, atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT), and GBM cell lines. Increasing PID1 also increased cell death and apoptosis, inhibited proliferation, induced mitochondrial depolaization, and decreased serum-mediated phosphorylation of AKT and ERK in medulloblastoma, ATRT, and/or GBM cell lines, whereas siRNA to PID1 diminished mitochondrial depolarization.

Conclusions: These data are the first to link PID1 to cancer and suggest that PID1 may have a tumor inhibitory function in these pediatric and adult brain tumors. Clin Cancer Res; 20(4); 827–36. ©2013 AACR.
Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blinded Chemoimmunotherapy Clinical Trial in a Pet Dog Model of Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Marconato Laura , Frayssinet Patrick , Rouquet Nicole , Comazzi Stefano , Leone Vito Ferdinando , Laganga Paola , Rossi Federica , Vignoli Massimo , Pezzoli Lorenzo , Aresu Luca
Published: December 2013

Purpose: Active immunotherapy is a promising antitumoral strategy; however its use in combination with chemotherapy in dogs with large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) remains largely untested. Heat shock proteins (HSP) bind the small peptides they chaperone (HSPPC), allowing for immunization of the host against a large repertoire of tumor-associated antigens. Hydroxylapatite vehicles HSPPCs and acts as an immunologic adjuvant. The aim of this study was to show that an autologous vaccine with hydroxylapatite and tumor-derived HSPPCs is safe and therapeutically effective in dogs with DLBCL.

Experimental Design: Nineteen dogs with naturally occurring DLBCL were entered into a prospective randomized placebo-controlled double-blinded trial of HSPPCs–hydroxylapatite plus chemotherapy versus chemotherapy alone. Endpoints included time to progression (TTP), lymphoma-specific survival (LSS), and incidence of toxicoses.

Results: Median first TTP after randomization to the vaccine arm was 304 days versus 41 days for the control arm (P = 0.0004). There was also a statistically significant difference in duration of second remission between the two groups (P = 0.02). Median LSS was 505 days for the vaccinated dogs versus 159 days for the unvaccinated dogs (P = 0.0018). Six vaccinated dogs achieved molecular remission, as shown by clonal immunoglobulin H (IgH) rearrangement. Toxicoses were comparable between the two treatment arms.

Conclusions: The results of this trial demonstrate that the autologous vaccine tested here is safe and efficacious in prolonging TTP and LSS in dogs with DLBCL when used in combination with dose-intense chemotherapy. On the basis of these results, additional evaluation of this novel therapeutic strategy is warranted in human DLBCL. Clin Cancer Res; 20(3); 668–77. ©2013 AACR.
Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Rewires the Molecular Path to PI3K-Dependent Proliferation
Authors: Salt Megan B. , Bandyopadhyay Sourav , McCormick Frank
Published: December 2013

Tumors showing evidence of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) have been associated with metastasis, drug resistance, and poor prognosis. Heterogeneity along the EMT spectrum is observed between and within tumors. To develop effective therapeutics, a mechanistic understanding of how EMT affects the molecular requirements for proliferation is needed. We found that although cells use phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) for proliferation in both the epithelial and mesenchymal states, EMT rewires the mechanism of PI3K pathway activation. In epithelial cells, autocrine ERBB3 activation maintains PI3K signaling, whereas after EMT, downregulation of ERBB3 disrupts autocrine signaling to PI3K. Loss of ERBB3 leads to reduced serum-independent proliferation after EMT that can be rescued through reactivation of PI3K by enhanced signaling from p110α, ERBB3 reexpression, or growth factor stimulation. In vivo, we demonstrate that PIK3CA expression is upregulated in mesenchymal tumors with low levels of ERBB3. This study defines how ERBB3 downregulation after EMT affects PI3K-dependent proliferation.

Significance: This study describes a mechanism through which EMT transition alters the proliferative potential of cells by modulating ERBB3 expression. Furthermore, it demonstrates the potential for multiple molecular routes to drive proliferation in different cell states, illustrating how changes in EMT status can rewire signaling upstream of cell proliferation. Cancer Discov; 4(2); 186–199. ©2013 AACR.

See related commentary by Niederst and Benes, p. 149

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 131
PITX3 and Risk for Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jiménez-Jiménez Félix Javier , García-Martín Elena , Alonso-Navarro Hortensia , Agúndez José A.G.
Published: December 2013

Background/Aims: Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the PITX3 gene have been associated with the risk for Parkinson's disease (PD). We conducted a systematic review and a meta-analysis including all the studies published on the risk of PD related with these polymorphisms. Methods: The systematic review was done using several databases. Eligible studies were included in the meta-analysis that was carried out using Meta-DiSc 1.1.1 software. Heterogeneity between studies was tested using the Q-statistic. Results: The meta-analysis included eight association studies for the PITX3 rs3758549 SNP (4,052 PD patients, 3,949 controls), eight studies for the PITX3 rs2281983 SNP (4,309 PD patients, 4,287 controls), and six studies for the rs4919621 SNP (2,724 PD patients, 2,285 controls), and the risk for PD, global diagnostic odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for rs3758549, rs2281983, and rs4919621 were, respectively, 1.00 (0.89-1.12) (p = 0.979), 0.99 (0.91-1.09) (p = 0.896), and 0.98 (0.83-1.16) (p = 0.844) for the total group. The separate analysis in Caucasian and Chinese subjects on the frequency of the minor allele of the three SNPs analyzed did not show significant differences between PD patients and controls in both subgroups. rs2281983 and rs4919621 SNPs were related with early-onset PD risk in Caucasians. Conclusion: The results of the meta-analysis suggest that rs3758549, rs2281983, and rs4919621 SNPs are not major determinants of the risk for PD.
Serodiagnosis of Mycobacterium avium Complex Pulmonary Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Komazaki Yoshitoshi , Miyazaki Yasunari , Fujie Toshihide , Sakashita Hiroyuki , Tsuchiya Kimitake , Tamaoka Meiyo , Sumi Yuki , Maruyama Yuichiro , Nanki Toshihiro , Inase Naohiko
Published: December 2013

Background:Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) pulmonary disease (PD) is often difficult and complicated to diagnose or to discriminate from follicular bronchitis, bronchiectasis, or other conditions associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) lung in the clinical setting. Objective: We investigated whether a serologic test for anti-glycopeptidolipid (GPL) antibody was useful for distinguishing MAC-PD from RA lung in diagnosis. Methods: Serum IgA antibody to MAC-specific GPL core antigen was measured by an enzyme immunoassay. Antibody levels were measured in sera from 14 RA patients with MAC-PD (RA + MAC), 20 RA patients with bronchial or bronchiolar lesions without MAC-PD (RA w/o MAC), 20 RA patients without pulmonary lesions (RA only), and 25 healthy volunteers (HV). Results: The levels of serum anti-GPL antibodies were higher in the RA + MAC group than in the RA w/o MAC, RA-only, and HV groups (2.87 ± 2.83 vs. 0.50 ± 0.45, 0.31 ± 0.24, and 0.38 ± 0.10 U/ml, respectively; p < 0.001). With the cutoff point in receiver-operating characteristic analysis set at 0.7 U/ml, the serologic test differentiated RA + MAC from RA w/o MAC with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 90%. Conclusions: This serologic test for anti-GPL antibody is useful for diagnosing MAC-PD in RA.
The Role of Zinc Dynamics in Growth Hormone Secretion
Authors: Miletta Maria Consolata , Schöni Martin H. , Kernland Kristin , Mullis Primus E. , Petkovic Vibor
Published: December 2013

Human growth hormone (GH) causes a variety of physiological and metabolic effects in humans and plays a pivotal role in postnatal growth. In somatotroph cells of the anterior pituitary, GH is stored in concentrated forms in secretory granules to be rapidly released upon GH-releasing hormone stimulation. During the process of secretory granule biogenesis, self-association of GH occurs in the compartments of the early secretory pathway (endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi complex). Since this process is greatly facilitated by the presence of zinc ions, it is of importance to understand the potential role of zinc transporters that participate in the fine-tuning of zinc homeostasis and dynamics, particularly in the early secretory pathway. Thus, the role of zinc transporters in supplying the secretory pathway with the sufficient amount of zinc required for the biogenesis of GH-containing secretory granules is essential for normal secretion. This report, illustrated by a clinical case report on transient neonatal zinc deficiency, focuses on the role of zinc in GH storage in the secretory granules and highlights the role of specific zinc transporters in the early secretory pathway.
The Sitting Height/Height Ratio for Age in Healthy and Short Individuals and Its Potential Role in Selecting Short Children for SHOX Analysis
Authors: Malaquias Alexsandra C. , Scalco Renata C. , Fontenele Eveline G.P. , Costalonga Everlayny F. , Baldin Alexandre D. , Braz Adriana F. , Funari Mariana F.A. , Nishi Mirian Y. , Guerra-Junior Gil , Mendonca Berenice B. , Arnhold Ivo J.P. , Jorge Alexander A.L.
Published: December 2013

Aims: To determine the presence of abnormal body proportion, assessed by sitting height/height ratio for age and sex (SH/H SDS) in healthy and short individuals, and to estimate its role in selecting short children for SHOX analysis. Methods: Height, sitting height and weight were evaluated in 1,771 healthy children, 128 children with idiopathic short stature (ISS), 58 individuals with SHOX defects (SHOX-D) and 193 females with Turner syndrome (TS). Results: The frequency of abnormal body proportion, defined as SH/H SDS >2, in ISS children was 16.4% (95% CI 10-22%), which was higher than in controls (1.4%, 95% CI 0.8-1.9%, p < 0.001). The SHOX gene was evaluated in all disproportionate ISS children and defects in this gene were observed in 19%. Among patients with SHOX-D, 88% of children (95% CI 75-100%) and 96% of adults had body disproportion. In contrast, SH/H SDS >2 were less common in children (48%, 95% CI 37-59%) and in adults (28%, 95% CI 20-36%) with TS. Conclusion: Abnormal body proportions were observed in almost all individuals with SHOX-D, 50% of females with TS and 16% of children considered ISS. Defects in SHOX gene were identified in 19% of ISS children with SH/H SDS >2, suggesting that SH/H SDS is a useful tool to select children for undergoing SHOX molecular studies.
Pityriasis Rosea in a Hepatitis B-Positive Patient Treated with Pegylated Interferon α2a: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Drago Francesco , Javor Sanja , Bruzzone Linda , Drago Francesca , Parodi Aurora , Picciotto Antonino
Published: December 2013

Pityriasis rosea (PR) is an acute, self-limiting exanthematous disease caused by the endogenous reactivation of human herpesvirus (HHV)-6 and/or HHV-7 infection in conditions of altered immunity. In addition, many drugs have been incriminated as possible triggers of PR-like eruptions, characterized by clinical, morphological and histopathological features that differ from typical PR. Here, we report a case of PR in a patient with chronic hepatitis B, receiving pegylated interferon α2a (PEG-IFN-α2a). PR, arising after the second administration of the PEG-IFN-α2a, might be considered a clinical expression of the patient's altered immune condition as reported in the immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome affecting patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection after high-dose antiretroviral therapy.
High-Dose Topical Bevacizumab for Corneal Neovascularization
Authors: Waisbourd Michael , Levinger Eliya , Varssano David , Moisseiev Elad , Zayit-Soudri Shiri , Barak Adiel , Loewenstein Anat , Barequet Irina
Published: December 2013

Background/Aims: Bevacizumab (Avastin), an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drug, has been successfully used in the recent years to treat ocular pathologies, mostly by intravitreal administration. The aim of the current study was to assess the off-label topical use of high-dose bevacizumab for the treatment of corneal neovascularization. Methods: Seventeen eyes of 17 patients with corneal neovascularization secondary to various pathologies were included. The patients were treated with topical bevacizumab (25 mg/ml) 4 times daily for 2 weeks. The following parameters were evaluated at baseline and on days 3, 7 and 14: visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, intraocular pressure, heart rate and blood pressure. Color photos were obtained at baseline and on day 14. Results: Eleven eyes (65%) demonstrated regression of corneal neovascularization and/or clearing of corneal opacification. Adverse ocular events were mild and transient, and included eyelid swelling/chalazion and superficial punctate keratitis. Conclusion: Treatment with high-dose topical bevacizumab (25 mg/ml) was effective for corneal neovascularization in nearly two thirds of the eyes treated. Adverse ocular side effects were mild and transient.
Presentation of Untreated Systemic Mastocytosis as Recurrent, Pulseless-Electrical-Activity Cardiac Arrests Resistant to Cardiac Pacemaker
Authors: Butterfield Joseph H. , Weiler Catherine R.
Published: December 2013

Recurrent, pulseless-electrical-activity (PEA) cardiac arrests were the novel presentation of untreated systemic mastocytosis in an 85-year-old woman who lacked cutaneous findings of mastocytosis. Despite prior implantation of a dual-chamber cardiac pacemaker 3 weeks previously for similar spells, she experienced a PEA arrest accompanied by flushing, increased urinary N-methylhistamine excretion and serum tryptase values on the day of presentation to our clinic. Bone marrow biopsy findings conducted to rule out breast cancer metastases showed 30% mast cell infiltration, aberrant expression of CD25 and a positive c-kit Asp816Val mutation. Treatment with a combination of H1 and H2 receptor blockers reduced flushing and eliminated hypotension. Maintenance medication included aspirin, cetirizine, ranitidine, montelukast, oral cromolyn sodium and an epinephrine autoinjector (as needed). At 6-month follow-up, the patient remained free of PEA arrests, flushing, or any clinical signs of mastocytosis or mast cell degranulation. PEA cardiac arrests may therefore be a presenting sign of untreated systemic mastocytosis.
Evolutionary Dynamics of Repetitive DNA in Semaprochilodus (Characiformes, Prochilodontidae): A Fish Model for Sex Chromosome Differentiation
Authors: Terencio M.L. , Schneider C.H. , Gross M.C. , Vicari M.R. , Farias I.P. , Passos K.B. , Feldberg E.
Published: December 2013

Distribution of 6 microsatellites and 5 transposable elements on the chromosomes of Semaprochilodus taeniurus and S. insignis, commonly referred to as Jaraqui, was performed using their physical mapping with fluorescence in situ hybridization. In this study, we aim to understand the evolutionary dynamics in genomes of S. taeniurus and S. insignis by comparing the position, abundance and contribution of the repetitive sequences in the origins and differentiation of a ZZ/ZW sex chromosome system in S. taeniurus. Results revealed that distribution patterns of repetitive DNAs along the chromosomes varied considerably. Hybridization signals were observed on several autosomes in both species; however, in S. taeniurus genome, the repetitive sequences were more abundant. In addition, large clusters of known repetitive sequences were detected in sex chromosomes of S. taeniurus. This observation is notable because the accumulation of repetitive DNAs could reflect the degradation of genetic activities and the differentiation of protosex chromosomes, evolving into the heteromorphic ZW pair observed in S. taeniurus.
Uveitis as a Result of MAP Kinase Pathway Inhibition
Authors: Joshi Lavnish , Karydis Andreas , Gemenetzi Maria , Shao Emily H. , Taylor Simon R.J.
Published: December 2013

We report the case of a patient treated with dabrafenib and trametinib (mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway inhibitors) for stage 3b cutaneous melanoma who developed bilateral uveitis. Although there have been reports of ocular side effects with this class of drugs, uveitis has not been previously reported to the best of our knowledge. This case indicates the wide range of side effects that can be seen with the newer targeted biological therapies.
Práticas teatrais e práticas escolares de leitura
Authors: Soares Mei Hua
Published: December 2013

Este projeto tem por objetivo investigar práticas de leitura realizadas por alguns grupos de teatro, contemplados pela Lei de Fomento ao Teatro (SP), que apresentam como cerne, ou como interesse subjacente à pesquisa desenvolvida, o trabalho junto a jovens. Considerando que as ações nesses grupos apresentam ênfase no processo que, por sua vez, envolve leituras e investigação de temas caros aos artistas durante suas criações, visa-se refletir sobre a existência de um possível conceito ou ideia de formação. A partir da observação dos processos de pesquisa e seus desdobramentos cênicos, da coleta de informações acerca das leituras realizadas coletivamente, pretende- se verificar em que medida há uma dimensão pedagógica efetiva que se funda nesses trabalhos compartilhados entre artistas e jovens e como ela se dá.
Teoria e Prática no Seminário de Dramaturgia do Teatro de Arena
Authors: Ribeiro Paula Chagas Autran
Published: December 2013

No presente trabalho, focaremos a análise no Seminário de Dramaturgia do Teatro de Arena e na inter-relação que este estabeleceu com o Laboratório de Interpretação, ambos fundados por Augusto Boal, em 1958 e 1956, respectivamente. Isso porque, analisando o material disponível sobre o seminário, chegamos à conclusão de que a grande inovação ocorrida ali foi a interligação entre a prática e a teoria dramatúrgicas, que se relacionavam dialeticamente com a interpretação. Essa teoria partia do estudo aprofundado do método desenvolvido por Stanislávski, mas não se restringia a ele. Com base nessa teoria, foram criados, ali, novos exercícios e técnicas de atuação que desembocaram em uma linguagem teatral eminentemente brasileira.
Parecido, mas não igual: Proyecto Filoctetes e Project Embed – processos distintos, resultados semelhantes
Authors: Martins Christiane de Fátima
Published: December 2013

O presente artigo busca refletir sobre obras artísticas que interferem no cotidiano da cidade onde são apresentadas, como sendo uma forma de exploração e inovação do espaço público e urbano, transformando o transeunte em espectador que é surpreendido pela obra artística, podendo ou não intervir na mesma, numa espécie de confronto reflexivo.
Leitura e Teatro: primeiras aproximações
Authors: Vidor Heloise Baurich
Published: December 2013

As possibilidades poéticas e pedagógicas que se abrem a partir da aproximação entre teatro e leitura de textos é o ponto de partida desta investigação. A supervisão da prática dos estagiários do curso de Licenciatura em Teatro da UDESC/SC revelou que um dos desafios do ensino do teatro é a apropriação do texto escrito por um autor pelo aluno-ator. Pretende-se propor a exploração lúdica da leitura de textos como caminho potencialmente fértil para o percurso do ‘escrito ao dito’. A dimensão oral da leitura (Bajard, 2005) e sua relação com o teatro - a partir da revisão dos conceitos de leitura dramática e de leitura cênica (Pavis, 2010), abordagem contemporânea - subsidiarão a experimentação prática em contextos diferenciados de ensino do teatro.
Companhia Teatro de Seraphim: Artaud, Brecht & outros seres afins
Authors: Silva Igor de Almeida
Published: December 2013

Este trabalho consiste em um estudo introdutório sobre a Companhia Teatro de Seraphim (CTS), sediada no Recife, em atividade desde março de 1990. Pretende-se observar as relações entre Arte e Política nas proposições estéticas e ideológicas do grupo, tendo como corpus textos de programas de espetáculo, entrevistas, artigos de imprensa, críticas, projetos de montagem, entre outros documentos, priorizando aqueles produzidos pelos integrantes da CTS, como forma de identificar suas ideias teatrais, a partir da poética e do pensamento de Artaud, Brecht, Benjamin, Pirandello e Genet.
Tchékhov no Ocidente: entre o Exótico e o Íntimo
Authors: Nascimento Rodrigo Alves do
Published: December 2013

Este artigo tem por objetivo apresentar um breve panorama da produção e circulação de encenações das principais peças de Antón Pávlovitch Tchékhov (1860-1904) nos palcos europeus e americanos no início do século XX. Tal retrospectiva tem um recorte específico e pretende mostrar como ao longo dessas encenações se consolidou o que se convencionou chamar “mito do tchekhovismo”. Tal leitura, que vigorou de maneira não linear e com conflitos, influenciou de maneira decisiva os primeiros momentos de recepção da dramaturgia de Tchékhov no Brasil.
A Segunda Blognovela da História: Autobiografia. Impessoal. O Falso, Possível Tendência Teatral Contemporânea.
Authors: Pinto Erlon Cherque
Published: December 2013

A SEGUNDA BLOGNOVELA DA HISTÓRIA: AUTOBIOGRAFIA. IMPESSOAL., de Erlon Cherque e Guilherme Miranda, apresentada uma vez em tempo real e gravada para transmissão online. Em lugar do novo, estabelece-se a dinâmica da diferença e negociação entre configurações estéticas teatrais. Tomando por base o Método Matricial (Jacó Guinsburg e Rubens Brito), estabeleceu-se o agrupamento de obras do encenador Gerald Thomas. A matriz criativa resultante: tendência ao falso. O elemento-procedimento de interesse para recriação da matriz criativa (tendência ao falso) foi a blognovela a partir do evento "A primeira blognovela da história: o cão que insultava mulheres, kepler, the dog". As categorias (metodologia, processo de criação e poética teatral) tornam-se posições temporárias e reversíveis no contexto da tendência ao falso.