bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compression Behavior of Confined Columns with High-Volume Fly Ash Concrete
Authors: Yoo Sung-Won , Choi Young Cheol , Choi Wonchang
Published: July 2017

The use of fly ash in ordinary concrete provides practical benefits to concrete structures, such as a gain in long-term strength, reduced hydration heat, improved resistance to chloride, and enhanced workability. However, few studies with high-volume fly ash (HVFA) concrete have been conducted that focus on the structural applications such as a column. Thus, there is a need to promote field applications of HVFA concrete as a sustainable construction material. To this end, this study investigated the compressive behavior of reinforced concrete columns that contain HVFA with a 50 percent replacement rate. Six columns were fabricated for this study. The study variables were the HVFA replacement rate, tied steel ratio, and tie steel spacing. The computed ultimate strength by the American Concrete Institute (ACI) code conservatively predicted the measured values, and, thus, the existing equation in the ACI code is feasible for confined RC columns that contain HVFA. In addition, an analysis model was calibrated based on the experimental results and is recommended for predicting the stress-strain relationship of confined reinforced concrete columns that contain HVFA.
Exercise Promotes Neuroplasticity in Both Healthy and Depressed Brains: An fMRI Pilot Study
Authors: Gourgouvelis Joanne , Yielder Paul , Murphy Bernadette
Published: July 2017

Memory impairments are a frequently reported cognitive symptom in people suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD) and often persist despite antidepressant therapy. Neuroimaging studies have identified abnormal hippocampal activity during memory processes in MDD. Exercise as an ad-on treatment for MDD is a promising therapeutic strategy shown to improve mood, cognitive function, and neural structure and function. To advance our understanding of how exercise impacts neural function in MDD, we must also understand how exercise impacts healthy individuals without MDD. This pilot study used a subsequent memory paradigm to investigate the effects of an eight-week exercise intervention on hippocampal function in low-active healthy (n=8) and low-active MDD (n=8) individuals. Results showed a marked improvement in depression scores for the MDD group (p<0.0001) and no change in memory performance for either group (p>0.05). Functional imaging results showed a marginally significant decrease in hippocampal activity in both groups following the exercise intervention. Our whole brain analysis collapsed across groups revealed a similar deactivation pattern across several memory-associated regions. These results suggest that exercise may enhance neural efficiency in low-fit individuals while still resulting in a substantially greater mood effect for those suffering from MDD. This trial is registered with clinical trials.govNCT03191994.
Thermal Synthesis of Polypeptides from N-Butyloxycarbonyl Oligopeptides Containing Aspartyl Residue at C-Terminus
Authors: Munegumi Toratane , Yamada Takafumi
Published: July 2017

The thermal reactions of amino acids have been investigated for pure organic synthesis, materials preparation in industry, and prebiotic chemistry. N-t-Butyloxycarbonyl aspartic acid (Boc-Asp) releases 2-butene and carbon dioxide upon heating without solvents. The resulting mixture of the free molten aspartic acid was dehydrated to give peptide bonds. This study describes the thermal reactions of N-t-butyloxycarbonyl peptides (Boc-Gly-L-Asp, Boc-L-Ala-L-Asp, Boc-L-Val-L-Asp, and Boc-Gly-Gly-L-Asp) having an aspartic residue at the carboxyl terminus. The peptides were deprotected upon heating at a constant temperature between 110 and 170°C for 1 to 24 h to afford polypeptides in which the average molecular weight reached 7800.
Cardioprotective Effects of Transfusion of Late‐Phase Preconditioned Plasma May Be Induced by Activating the Reperfusion Injury Salvage Kinase Pathway but Not the Survivor Activating Factor Enhancement Pathway in Rats
Authors: Zhao Yang , Zheng Zhi-nan , Pi Yan-na , Liang Xue , Jin San-qing
Published: July 2017

A previous study in our laboratory demonstrated that transfusion of plasma collected at the late phase of remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) could reduce myocardial infarct size. Here, we tested whether the reperfusion injury salvage kinase (RISK) and survivor activating factor enhancement (SAFE) pathways are involved in transferring protection. In a two‐part study, donor rats (n = 3) donated plasma 48 hours after RIPC (preconditioned plasma) or control (nonpreconditioned plasma). Normal (part 1) or ischemic (part 2) myocardia were collected from recipients (n = 6) 24 hours after receiving normal saline, nonpreconditioned plasma, and preconditioned plasma or after further suffering ischemia reperfusion. Western blot was performed to analyze STAT3, Akt, and Erk1/2 phosphorylation in normal and ischemic myocardium (central area and border area). In normal myocardia, preconditioned plasma increased Akt and Erk1/2 phosphorylation significantly compared to nonpreconditioned plasma and normal saline; no STAT3 phosphorylation was detected. In ischemic myocardia, preconditioned plasma increased Akt and Erk1/2 phosphorylation significantly in both central and border areas compared to other fluids; no significant difference in STAT3 phosphorylation occurred among groups. Transfusion of preconditioned plasma collected at the late phase of RIPC could activate the RISK but not SAFE pathway, suggesting that RISK pathway may be involved in transferring protection.
Origin and Distribution of Carbonate Cement in Tight Sandstones: The Upper Triassic Yanchang Formation Chang 8 Oil Layer in West Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Lai Jin , Wang Guiwen , Chen Jing , Wang Shuchen , Zhou Zhenglong , Fan Xuqiang
Published: July 2017

Two generations of carbonate cement as Type I (microcrystalline calcite and dolomite) and Type II (mainly Fe-calcite and Fe-dolomite) are recognized in Chang 8 sandstones, Ordos basin. Carbonate cement in Chang 8 sandstones is closely related to the dissolved carbon from thermal maturation of organic matters. Carbonate cement in the loosely packed framework grains precipitated shortly after deposition, and late-stage ferroan calcite and ferroan dolomite formed with progressive burial. The early diagenetic carbonate cement is partially to completely replaced by late-stage ferroan calcite and ferroan dolomite. Carbonate cement is much more commonly observed in sand bodies adjacent to Chang 7 source rocks. With increasing distance from the Chang 7 oil layers, the carbonate cement content gradually decreases. However, some tight carbonate cemented zones also occur at the sandstone-mudstone interfaces. Dissolution of Ca-feldspars by organic acids-rich fluids, together with clay mineral transformations such as illitization of smectite, would provide Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions for carbonate cementation. Organic acids and CO2 rich fluids would charge into the reservoirs with the hydrocarbons, and when the CO2 and acids were buffered by the framework grain dissolution, carbonate cement would precipitate with a decrease in CO2 concentration.
A Challenging Diagnosis of IgG4-Related Disease When Understanding Limitations of Laboratory Testing Was Pivotal
Authors: Xu Victoria Y. Y. , Bell Mary , Zahirieh Alireza , Hsiao Janey , Higgins Kevin , Ghorab Zeina , Bookman Arthur , Chan Pak Cheung
Published: July 2017

A 76-year-old man was incidentally found on a CT scan to have lymphadenopathy and bilateral kidney enlargement suggestive of infiltrative renal disease. He was largely asymptomatic but had bilateral salivary and lacrimal gland enlargement. A grossly elevated serum IgG (>70 g/L) with concomitant suppression of other immunoglobulins, a small IgG restriction, and a parotid biopsy revealing lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate with slight kappa light chain excess all suggested a lymphoproliferative disorder (LPD). The diagnostic workup was further confounded by a normal serum IgG4 concentration. Moreover, bone marrow and renal biopsies did not reveal evidence of LPD. Discussion with the laboratory not only clarified that the markedly increased total IgG could not be accounted for by the small IgG restriction, but also identified a discrepancy in the IgG4 measurement. Repeat analysis of a follow-up sample revealed an elevated IgG4 of 5.94 (reference interval: 0.039–0.864) g/L, which prompted a repeat parotid biopsy that showed predominant IgG4+ lymphocytic infiltrates. Despite the deluding presentations, a final diagnosis of IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) was made based on elevated serum IgG4 concentrations and histopathological findings. This case highlights the importance of recognizing limitations of laboratory testing and the benefit of close communications among clinical subspecialties and the laboratory.
High Performance Computing of Complex Electromagnetic Algorithms Based on GPU/CPU Heterogeneous Platform and Its Applications to EM Scattering and Multilayered Medium Structure
Authors: Song Zhe , Mu Xing , Zhou Hou-Xing
Published: July 2017

The fast and accurate numerical analysis for large-scale objects and complex structures is essential to electromagnetic simulation and design. Comparing to the exploration in EM algorithms from mathematical point of view, the computer programming realization is coordinately significant while keeping up with the development of hardware architectures. Unlike the previous parallel algorithms or those implemented by means of parallel programming on multicore CPU with OpenMP or on a cluster of computers with MPI, the new type of large-scale parallel processor based on graphics processing unit (GPU) has shown impressive ability in various scenarios of supercomputing, while its application in computational electromagnetics is especially expected. This paper introduces our recent work on high performance computing based on GPU/CPU heterogeneous platform and its application to EM scattering problems and planar multilayered medium structure, including a novel realization of OpenMP-CUDA-MLFMM, a developed ACA method and a deeply optimized CG-FFT method. With fruitful numerical examples and their obvious enhancement in efficiencies, it is convincing to keep on deeply investigating and understanding the computer hardware and their operating mechanism in the future.
Feasibility of Short-Period, High-Dose Intravenous Methylprednisolone for Preventing Stricture after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Esophageal Cancer: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Nakamura Jun , Hikichi Takuto , Watanabe Ko , Sato Masaki , Obara Katsutoshi , Ohira Hiromasa
Published: July 2017

Objective. A wide mucosal defect after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for esophageal cancer is associated with increased risk of stricture. This study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of short-period, high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone administration (steroid pulse therapy) in preventing post-ESD esophageal stricture. Methods. This prospective study examined 13 lesions in 11 consecutive patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent ESD that involved three-quarters or more of the circumference of the esophagus or who had a longitudinal resected specimen diameter of ≥5 cm. Steroid pulse therapy was initiated the day after ESD and continued for 3 consecutive days. The primary endpoint was the stricture rate after ESD. Secondary endpoints were adverse events (AEs) associated with steroid pulse therapy, time until the development of stricture, and the frequency and duration of endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD). Results. The stricture rate was 54.5% (6/11). The median time until stricture development was 15 days. The median number of EBD sessions required was 2.5. The median duration of EBD was 14.5 days. AEs related to steroid pulse therapy and postprocedure complications were not observed. Conclusion. No preventive effect of the stricture after esophageal ESD by steroid pulse therapy was found, although the therapy was administered safely.
A New Method of Multiattribute Decision‐Making Based on Interval‐Valued Hesitant Fuzzy Soft Sets and Its Application
Authors: Yang Yan , Lang Lei , Lu Liuli , Sun Yangmei
Published: July 2017

Combining interval‐valued hesitant fuzzy soft sets (IVHFSSs) and a new comparative law, we propose a new method, which can effectively solve multiattribute decision‐making (MADM) problems. Firstly, a characteristic function of two interval values and a new comparative law of interval‐valued hesitant fuzzy elements (IVHFEs) based on the possibility degree are proposed. Then, we define two important definitions of IVHFSSs including the interval‐valued hesitant fuzzy soft quasi subset and soft quasi equal based on the new comparative law. Finally, an algorithm is presented to solve MADM problems. We also use the method proposed in this paper to evaluate the importance of major components of the well drilling mud pump.
An Accelerated Homotopy Perturbation Method for Solving Nonlinear Two-Dimensional Volterra-Fredholm Integrodifferential Equations
Authors: Hendi F. A. , Al-Qarni M. M.
Published: July 2017

We propose and apply coupling of the variational iteration method (VIM) and homotopy perturbation method (HPM) to solve nonlinear mixed Volterra-Fredholm integrodifferential equations (VFIDE). In this approach, we use a new formula called variational homotopy perturbation method (VHPM) and variational accelerated homotopy perturbation method (VAHPM). This approach is based on the form of He’s polynomials and on a new form of He’s polynomials. We discuss the convergence of the technique. Some numerical examples are introduced to verify the efficiency of this technique.
Restorative Rehabilitation of a Patient with Dental Erosion
Authors: AlShahrani Mohammed Thamer , Haralur Satheesh B. , Alqarni Mohammed
Published: July 2017

Dental erosion is the chemical dissolution of the tooth structure. Factors like eating disorders and gastrointestinal diseases are recognized as intrinsic factors for dental erosion. Advanced stages of dental erosion extensively damage the tooth morphology, consequently affecting both esthetics and functions. Reports indicate the growing prevalence of erosion, and hence knowledge of restorative rehabilitation of tooth erosion is an integral part of the contemporary dental practice. This clinical report describes an adult patient with gastroesophageal reflux induced dental erosion involving the palatal surface of the maxillary anterior teeth. The extensive involvement of the palatal surfaces compromised the esthetics, incisal guidance, and functional occlusal efficiency. Indirect all-ceramic restorations were utilized to restore the esthetics and occlusal reconstruction. In conclusion, patients affected by severe dental erosion require prosthetic rehabilitation besides the management of the associated medical condition.
A Kalman Filtering and Nonlinear Penalty Regression Approach for Noninvasive Anemia Detection with Palpebral Conjunctiva Images
Authors: Chen Yi-Ming , Miaou Shaou-Gang
Published: July 2017

Noninvasive medical procedures are usually preferable to their invasive counterparts in the medical community. Anemia examining through the palpebral conjunctiva is a convenient noninvasive procedure. The procedure can be automated to reduce the medical cost. We propose an anemia examining approach by using a Kalman filter (KF) and a regression method. The traditional KF is often used in time-dependent applications. Here, we modified the traditional KF for the time-independent data in medical applications. We simply compute the mean value of the red component of the palpebral conjunctiva image as our recognition feature and use a penalty regression algorithm to find a nonlinear curve that best fits the data of feature values and the corresponding levels of hemoglobin (Hb) concentration. To evaluate the proposed approach and several relevant approaches, we propose a risk evaluation scheme, where the entire Hb spectrum is divided into high-risk, low-risk, and doubtful intervals for anemia. The doubtful interval contains the Hb threshold, say 11 g/dL, separating anemia and nonanemia. A suspect sample is the sample falling in the doubtful interval. For the anemia screening purpose, we would like to have as less suspect samples as possible. The experimental results show that the modified KF reduces the number of suspect samples significantly for all the approaches considered here.
Ankle-Foot Orthosis Made by 3D Printing Technique and Automated Design Software
Authors: Cha Yong Ho , Lee Keun Ho , Ryu Hong Jong , Joo Il Won , Seo Anna , Kim Dong-Hyeon , Kim Sang Jun
Published: July 2017

We described 3D printing technique and automated design software and clinical results after the application of this AFO to a patient with a foot drop. After acquiring a 3D modelling file of a patient’s lower leg with peroneal neuropathy by a 3D scanner, we loaded this file on the automated orthosis software and created the “STL” file. The designed AFO was printed using a fused filament fabrication type 3D printer, and a mechanical stress test was performed. The patient alternated between the 3D-printed and conventional AFOs for 2 months. There was no crack or damage, and the shape and stiffness of the AFO did not change after the durability test. The gait speed increased after wearing the conventional AFO (56.5 cm/sec) and 3D-printed AFO (56.5 cm/sec) compared to that without an AFO (42.2 cm/sec). The patient was more satisfied with the 3D-printed AFO than the conventional AFO in terms of the weight and ease of use. The 3D-printed AFO exhibited similar functionality as the conventional AFO and considerably satisfied the patient in terms of the weight and ease of use. We suggest the possibility of the individualized AFO with 3D printing techniques and automated design software.
Improvement of Carrier Phase Tracking Based on a Joint Vector Architecture
Authors: Chen Shaohua , Gao Yang
Published: July 2017

Carrier phase measurements are essential to high precision positioning. Usually, the carrier phase measurements are generated from the phase lock loop in a conventional Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver. However there is a dilemma problem to the design of the loop parameters in a conventional tracking loop. To address this problem and improve the carrier phase tracking sensitivity, a carrier phase tracking method based on a joint vector architecture is proposed. The joint vector architecture contains a common loop based on extended Kalman filter to track the common dynamics of the different channels and the individual loops for each channel to track the satellite specific dynamics. The transfer function model of the proposed architecture is derived. The proposed method and the conventional scalar carrier phase tracking are tested with a high quality simulator. The test results indicate that carrier phase measurements of satellites start to show cycle slips using the proposed method when carrier noise ratio is equal to and below 15 dB-Hz instead of 21 dB-Hz with using the conventional phase tracking loop. Since the joint vector based tracking loops jointly process the signals of all available satellites, the potential interchannel influence between different satellites is also investigated.
Development of Dual Power Multirotor System
Authors: Lin Chin E. , Supsukbaworn Thanakorn
Published: July 2017

Vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft has good flight characteristics and system performance without runway. The multirotor system has been tried to expand into larger size for longer endurance or higher payload. But the motor power to endurance ratio has been limited. Due to the specific energy of gasoline being much higher than battery, introducing gasoline engine into multirotor system can be considered. This paper proposes a dual power multirotor system to combine a quadrotor using gasoline engines to provide major lift in shorter arm with another quadrotor using brushless DC motors to offer most controllable force with longer arm. System design, fabrication, and verification of the proposed dual power multirotor system development are presented. Preliminary flights have achieved 16 kg payload for long endurance flight. This is useful for various applications with advanced improvements.
Experimental Study of the Slit Spacing and Bed Height on the Thermal Performance of Slit-Glazed Solar Air Heater
Authors: Mousavi Seyyed Mahdi Taheri , Egelioglu Fuat
Published: July 2017

The thermal performances of three slit-glazed solar air heaters (SGSAHs) were investigated experimentally. Three SGSAHs with different bed heights (7 cm, 5 cm, and 3 cm) were fabricated with multiple glass panes used for glazing. The length, width, and thickness of each pane were 154 cm, 6 cm, and 0.4 cm, respectively. Ambient air was continuously withdrawn through the gaps between the glass panes by fans. The experiments were conducted for four different gap distances between the glass panes (0.5 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm) and the air mass flow rate was varied between 0.014 kg/s and 0.057 kg/s. The effects of air mass flux on the outlet temperature and thermal efficiency were studied. For the SGSAH with bed height of 7 cm and glass pane gap distance of 0.5 mm, the highest efficiency was obtained as 82% at a mass flow rate of 0.057 kg/s and the air temperature difference between the inlet and the outlet (∆T) was maximum (27°C) when the mass flow rate was least. The results demonstrate that for lower mass flow rates and larger gaps, the performance of SGSAH with a bed height of 3 cm was better compared to that of others. However, for higher mass flow rates, the SGSAH with 7 cm bed height performed better.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Surgical Patients with Intensive Care Unit Lengths of Stay of 90 Days and Greater
Authors: Martini Verena , Lederer Ann-Kathrin , Laessle Claudia , Makowiec Frank , Utzolino Stefan , Fichtner-Feigl Stefan , Kousoulas Lampros
Published: July 2017

Background. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of prolonged length of stay in an intensive care unit (ICU) on the mortality and morbidity of surgical patients.Methods. We performed a monocentric and retrospective observational study in the surgical critical care unit of the department of surgery at the Medical Center of the University of Freiburg, Germany. Clinical data was collected from patients assigned to the ICU with a length of stay (LOS) of 90 days and greater.Results. From the total of the 19 patients with ICU LOS over 90 days, ten patients died in the ICU whereas nine patients were discharged to the normal ward. The ICU mortality rate was 52%. The overall survival one year after ICU discharge was 32%. Regarding factors affecting mortality of the patients, significantly higher mortality was associated with age of the patients at the time point of the ICU admission and with postoperative need of renal replacement therapy.Conclusions. We found a high but in our opinion acceptable mortality rate in surgical patients with ICU LOS of 90 days and greater. We identified age and the need of renal replacement therapy as risk factors for mortality.
Src Inhibits the Hippo Tumor Suppressor Pathway through Tyrosine Phosphorylation of Lats1
Authors: Si Yuan , Ji Xinyan , Cao Xiaolei , Dai Xiaoming , Xu Lingyi , Zhao Hongxia , Guo Xiaocan , Yan Huan , Zhang Haitao , Zhu Chu , Zhou Qi , Tang Mei , Xia Zongping , Li Li , Cong Yu-Sheng , Ye Sheng , Liang Tingbo , Feng Xin-Hua , Zhao Bin
Published: July 2017

The Hippo pathway regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis, and stem cell self-renewal, and its inactivation in animal models causes organ enlargement followed by tumorigenesis. Hippo pathway deregulation occurs in many human cancers, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we report tyrosine phosphorylation of the Hippo pathway tumor suppressor LATS1 as a mechanism underlying its regulation by cell adhesion. A tyrosine kinase library screen identified Src as the kinase to directly phosphorylate LATS1 on multiple residues, causing attenuated Mob kinase activator binding and structural alteration of the substrate-binding pocket in the kinase domain. Cell matrix adhesion activated the Hippo pathway effector transcription coactivator YAP partially through Src-mediated phosphorylation and inhibition of LATS1. Aberrant Src activation abolished the tumor suppressor activity of LATS1 and induced tumorigenesis in a YAP-dependent manner. Protein levels of Src in human breast cancer tissues correlated with accumulation of active YAP dephosphorylated on the LATS1 target site. These findings reveal tyrosine phosphorylation of LATS1 by Src as a novel mechanism of Hippo pathway regulation by cell adhesion and suggest Src activation as an underlying reason for YAP deregulation in tumorigenesis. Cancer Res; 77(18); 4868–80. ©2017 AACR.
Underreporting of Research Biopsies from Clinical Trials in Oncology
Authors: Parseghian Christine M. , Raghav Kanwal , Wolff Robert A. , Ensor Joe , Yao James , Ellis Lee M. , Tam Alda L. , Overman Michael J.
Published: July 2017

Purpose: Research biopsies are frequently incorporated within clinical trials in oncology and are often a mandatory requirement for trial enrollment. However, limited information is available regarding the extent and completeness of research biopsy reporting.

Experimental Design: We identified a cohort of therapeutic clinical trials where research biopsies were performed between January 2005 and October 2010 from an IR database at our institution. Clinical trial protocols were compared with the highest level of corresponding publication as a manuscript or registry report.

Results: A total of 866 research biopsies were performed across 46 clinical trials, with a median of 8 patients biopsied/trial and 19 biopsies collected/trial. After a median follow-up time of 4.3 years from trial completion, 36 of 46 trials (78%) reported trial results: published manuscripts (n = 35), or registry report (n = 1). A total of 635 conducted biopsies were reported in 18 of the 46 trials (39%). Six (33%) of these 18 trials underreported the number of biopsies performed. Of 33 trials with mandatory research biopsies, 13 (39%) trials reported on these biopsies. Biopsy complications occurred in 8 trials [n = 39 patients, 6 grade 3/4 adverse events (AE)] but only 1 trial reported these. Factors associated with biopsy reporting included a larger number of biopsies (P ≤ 0.001) and serial biopsies (P < 0.001). Twelve of 16 (75%) trials with >12 biopsies performed reported on these biopsies compared with only 20% (6/30) that performed ≤12 biopsies.

Conclusions: Despite ethical obligations to report research biopsies, the majority (61%) of trials do not report results from research biopsies. Complications are rarely reported in these studies. Improved reporting of results and AEs from research biopsies is needed. Clin Cancer Res; 23(21); 6450–7. ©2017 AACR.
Identification of a Human Airway Epithelial Cell Subpopulation with Altered Biophysical, Molecular, and Metastatic Properties
Authors: Pagano Paul C. , Tran Linh M. , Bendris Nawal , O'Byrne Sean , Tse Henry T. , Sharma Shivani , Hoech Jonathan W. , Park Stacy J. , Liclican Elvira L. , Jing Zhe , Li Rui , Krysan Kostyantyn , Paul Manash K. , Fontebasso Yari , Larsen Jill E. , Hakimi Shaina , Seki Atsuko , Fishbein Michael C. , Gimzewski James K. , Carlo Dino Di , Minna John D. , Walser Tonya C. , Dubinett Steven M.
Published: July 2017

Lung cancers are documented to have remarkable intratumoral genetic heterogeneity. However, little is known about the heterogeneity of biophysical properties, such as cell motility, and its relationship to early disease pathogenesis and micrometastatic dissemination. In this study, we identified and selected a subpopulation of highly migratory premalignant airway epithelial cells that were observed to migrate through microscale constrictions at up to 100-fold the rate of the unselected immortalized epithelial cell lines. This enhanced migratory capacity was found to be Rac1-dependent and heritable, as evidenced by maintenance of the phenotype through multiple cell divisions continuing more than 8 weeks after selection. The morphology of this lung epithelial subpopulation was characterized by increased cell protrusion intensity. In a murine model of micrometastatic seeding and pulmonary colonization, the motility-selected premalignant cells exhibit both enhanced survival in short-term assays and enhanced outgrowth of premalignant lesions in longer-term assays, thus overcoming important aspects of “metastatic inefficiency.” Overall, our findings indicate that among immortalized premalignant airway epithelial cell lines, subpopulations with heritable motility-related biophysical properties exist, and these may explain micrometastatic seeding occurring early in the pathogenesis of lung cancer. Understanding, targeting, and preventing these critical biophysical traits and their underlying molecular mechanisms may provide a new approach to prevent metastatic behavior. Cancer Prev Res; 10(9); 514–24. ©2017 AACR.

See related editorial by Hynds and Janes, p. 491
Imago Decidendi
Authors: Goodrich Peter
Published: July 2017

The digitization of law and of law reporting has greatly facilitated the transmission and use of images in legal decisions. While advocates have long been aware of the persuasive value of graphs, photographs, film, animatrix, the manipulation of images in judicial decisions has received little sustained attention. This article reviews the literature on the visual turn in legal studies and applies its lessons, historical and theoretical, to the apprehension of the juristic value and precedential status of images in judgments. The visual apparatuses of law are increasingly becoming its primary mode not only of transmission but also of reasoning, authorizing and judging. Such a dramatic shift in forum and medium to the online and digital necessitates a comparable transfer of method, a movement to sensuous apprehension,ad apparentiam, by appearance, in place of the traditional hermeneuticad similia, or by analogy.
Interjoint coordination of the lower extremities in short-track speed skating
Authors: Khuyagbaatar Batbayar , Purevsuren Tserenchimed , Park Won Man , Kim Kyungsoo , Kim Yoon Hyuk
Published: July 2017

In short-track speed skating, the three-dimensional kinematics of the lower extremities during the whole skating cycle have not been studied. Kinematic parameters of the lower extremities during skating are presented as joint angles versus time. However, the angle–time presentation is not sufficient to describe the relationship between multi-joint movement patterns. Thus, angle–angle presentations were developed and used to describe interjoint coordination in sport activities. In this study, 15 professional male skaters’ full body motion data were recorded using a wearable motion capture system during short-track speed skating. We investigated the three-dimensional kinematics of the lower extremities and then established the interjoint coordination between hip–knee and knee–ankle for both legs during the whole skating cycle. The results demonstrate the relationship between multi-joint movements during different phases of short-track speed skating. This study provides fundamentals of the movement mechanism of the lower extremities that can be integrated with physiotherapy to improve skating posture and prevent injuries from repetitive stress since physiological characteristics play an important role in skating performance.
Pulmonary capillary hemangiomatosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in a Persian cat
Authors: Jenkins Tiffany L. , Jennings Ryan N.
Published: July 2017

Pulmonary capillary hemangiomatosis (PCH) and pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) are rare causes of primary pulmonary hypertension in humans, and, in 2016, were reported in dogs. A 1-y-old, neutered male Persian cat was presented for autopsy after sudden death several hours after grooming. Grossly, the lungs were mottled red-to-pink, contained rubbery-to-firm nodular foci, and there was moderate-to-marked left-sided cardiomegaly and left atrial dilation, consistent with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Microscopically, there was multifocal to regionally extensive capillary proliferation within pulmonary alveolar septa and around respiratory bronchioles, with nodular aggregates of densely arranged capillaries that replaced pulmonary alveolar spaces. Rare occlusive venous remodeling was identified in Verhoeff–van Gieson-stained sections. The gross and microscopic changes were consistent with PCH with rare features of PVOD. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy was interpreted as potentially contributing to the cause of death, but unrelated to the pulmonary vascular proliferation.
Acute DeBakey Type I Dissection Repair Using Frozen Elephant Trunk: The Cleveland Clinic Technique
Authors: Aftab Muhammad , Plichta Ryan , Roselli Eric E.
Published: July 2017

Over the past 3 decades, the standard surgical management for acute DeBakey type I aortic dissection has not significantly changed. Most patients undergo ascending aortic replacement with an interposition graft under hypothermic circulatory arrest with selective root replacement. Nevertheless, with the improvement in overall patient care, acute surgical outcomes continue to improve. The frozen elephant trunk (FET) technique was introduced as a modification to conventional elephant trunk to treat extensive degenerative and chronic dissecting aneurysms involving the aortic arch and the proximal descending aorta. The FET technique converts the conventional elephant trunk procedure—an inherently 2-stage operation—into a 1-stage repair in selected patients and greatly facilitates more distal aortic repair, for others. The surgical strategy is tailored to address individual pathology, based on each patient’s aortic anatomy and disease. FET technique in acute DeBakey type I aortic dissection extends the surgical repair into and beyond the arch with the potential to address some of the limitations of the conventional type I aortic dissection repair, but it has not been widely adopted yet. Only a limited number of institutions have embraced this modality during the acute phase of aortic dissection out of concern that it may be too complicated during an emergency situation. We have developed a simplified technique that has evolved over the past several years and the purpose of this report is to describe it.
Mobile communication research in communication journals from 1999 to 2014
Authors: Kim Yonghwan , Kim Bumsoo , Kim Youngju , Wang Yuan
Published: July 2017

This study examined trends and patterns of mobile communication research across 10 communication journals between 1999 and 2014 with the intent to increase knowledge about mobile communication and to help scholars understand the future research directions. A total of 131 articles were coded for general information about journals, primary topic/context of the study, use of theories or models, research methods, units of analysis/types of sample, and countries or locations. Findings showed that the number of mobile communication-related studies increased over the time period of interest. Scholars examined uses and users’ characteristics of mobile communication as well as the effects of mobile media on everyday life. Most studies used quantitative methods such as survey of the general population. Theories or theoretical models were not frequently used in mobile communication research. Regarding the usage of theories or theoretical models, about half of mobile communication studies (48.1%) used theories and/or models as theoretical frameworks. Implications for improving this field of research are specifically discussed.
DARC extracellular domain remodeling in maturating reticulocytes explains Plasmodium vivax tropism
Authors: Ovchynnikova Elina , Aglialoro Francesca , Bentlage Arthur E. H. , Vidarsson Gestur , Salinas Nichole D. , von Lindern Marieke , Tolia Niraj H. , van den Akker Emile
Published: July 2017

Key Points

P vivax Duffy binding protein associates exclusively with a small population of immature reticulocytes. Increased DARC-DBP binding site accessibility in immature reticulocytes compared with erythrocytes is a key to infection by P vivax.
Frontline Science: Tim-3-mediated dysfunctional engulfment of apoptotic cells in SLE
Authors: Zhao Di , Guo Min , Liu Bing , Lin Qinghai , Xie Tingting , Zhang Qianqian , Jia Xiaoxia , Shu Qiang , Liang Xiaohong , Gao Lifen , Ma Chunhong
Published: July 2017

T cell Ig and mucin domain-containing molecule 3 (Tim-3) has been found to play important roles in autoimmune diseases, but whether Tim-3-mediated engulfment of apoptotic cells is involved in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) remains to be elucidated. In this study, we verified the role of human Tim-3 (hTim-3) as the receptor of phosphatidylserine (PS) in human embryonic kidney (HEK)293 cells, which initiated the engulfment of apoptotic cells. Both IgV and the mucin domain of Tim-3 were crucial in the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells, and there existed the key cytoplasmic domain for signal transduction. Alanine at 111, locating around the FG-CC′ loop of hTim-3, was necessary for its engulfment of apoptotic cells. In accordance, Tim-3 on CD14+ cells negatively correlated with the percentage of peripheral apoptotic cells in control subjects. However, although Tim-3 was significantly increased on CD14+ cells in SLE patients, peripheral apoptotic cells remained much higher than those in control subjects. Tim-3 on CD14+ cells showed positive correlation with percentage of apoptotic cells and level of dsDNA, indicating the involvement of Tim-3 in SLE. Accordingly, soluble Tim-3 (sTim-3) was significantly increased in plasma of SLE patients, which might contribute to higher expression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM)-10. Pretreatment with both plasma from SLE patients and recombinant sTim-3 greatly inhibited hTim-3-initiated phagocytosis of apoptotic cells. Furthermore, anti-tim-3 antibody depletion of plasma from SLE patients reversed the decreased phagocytosis of apoptotic cells. Collectively, our data suggest that sTim-3 might play inhibitory roles in impaired Tim-3-mediated clearance of apoptotic cells in SLE.
Elastase inhibitors as potential therapies for ELANE-associated neutropenia
Authors: Makaryan Vahagn , Kelley Merideth L , Fletcher Breanna , Bolyard Audrey Anna , Aprikyan A Andrew , Dale David C
Published: July 2017

Mutations in ELANE, the gene for neutrophil elastase (NE), a protease expressed early in neutrophil development, are the most frequent cause of cyclic (CyN) and severe congenital neutropenia (SCN). We hypothesized that inhibitors of NE, acting either by directly inhibiting enzymatic activity or as chaperones for the mutant protein, might be effective as therapy for CyN and SCN. We investigated β-lactam–based inhibitors of human NE (Merck Research Laboratories, Kenilworth, NJ, USA), focusing on 1 inhibitor called MK0339, a potent, orally absorbed agent that had been tested in clinical trials and shown to have a favorable safety profile. Because fresh, primary bone marrow cells are rarely available in sufficient quantities for research studies, we used 3 cellular models: patient-derived, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs); HL60 cells transiently expressing mutant NE; and HL60 cells with regulated expression of the mutant enzyme. In all 3 models, the cells expressing the mutant enzyme had reduced survival as measured with annexin V and FACS. Coincubation with the inhibitors, particularly MK0339, promoted cell survival and increased formation of mature neutrophils. These studies suggest that cell-permeable inhibitors of neutrophil elastase show promise as novel therapies for ELANE-associated neutropenia.
The Evaluation of a Noninvasive Respiratory Volume Monitor in Pediatric Patients Undergoing General Anesthesia
Authors: Gomez-Morad Andrea D. , Cravero Joseph P. , Harvey Brian C. , Bernier Rachel , Halpin Erin , Walsh Brian , Nasr Viviane G.
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND:

Pediatric patients following surgery are at risk for respiratory compromise such as hypoventilation and hypoxemia depending on their age, comorbidities, and type of surgery. Quantitative measurement of ventilation in nonintubated infants/children is a difficult and inexact undertaking. Current respiratory assessment in nonintubated patients relies on oximetry data, respiratory rate (RR) monitors, and subjective clinical assessment, but there is no objective measure of respiratory parameters that could be utilized to predict early respiratory compromise. New advances in technology and digital signal processing have led to the development of an impedance-based respiratory volume monitor (RVM, ExSpiron, Respiratory Motion, Inc, Waltham, MA). The RVM has been shown to provide accurate real-time, continuous, noninvasive measurements of tidal volume (TV), minute ventilation (MV), and RR in adult patients.

In this prospective observational study, our primary aim was to determine whether the RVM accurately measures TV, RR, and MV in pediatric patients.

METHODS:

A total of 72 pediatric patients (27 females, 45 males), ASA I to III, undergoing general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation were enrolled. After endotracheal intubation, continuous data of MV, TV, and RR were recorded from the RVM and an in-line monitoring spirometer (NM3 monitor, Phillips Healthcare). RVM and NM3 measurements of MV, TV, and RR were compared during a 10-minute period prior to the incision (“Presurgery”) and a 10-minute period after the end of surgery (“Postsurgery”). Relative errors were calculated over 1-minute segment within each 10-minute period. Bias, precision, and accuracy were calculated using Bland-Altman analyses and paired-difference equivalence tests were performed.

RESULTS:

Combined across the Presurgery and Postsurgery periods, the RVM’s mean measurement bias (RVM − NM3 measurement) for MV was −3.8% (95% limits of agreement) (±1.96 SD): (−19.9% to 12.2%), for TV it was −4.9 (−21.0% to 11.3%), and for RR it was 1.1% (−4.1% to 6.2%). The mean measurement accuracies for MV, TV, and RR were 11.9%, 12.0%, and 4.2% (0.6 breaths/min), respectively. Note that lower accuracy numbers correspond to more accurate RVM measurements. The equivalence tests rejected the null hypothesis that the RVM and NM3 have different mean values and conclude with 90% power that the measurements of MV, TV, and RR from the RVM and NM3 are equivalent within ±10%.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our data indicate acceptable agreement between RVM and NM3 measurements in pediatric mechanically-ventilated patients. Future studies assessing the capability of the RVM to detect respiratory compromise in other clinical settings are needed.
Targeting Hypoxia Signaling for Perioperative Organ Injury
Authors: Yuan Xiaoyi , Lee Jae W. , Bowser Jessica L. , Neudecker Viola , Sridhar Srikanth , Eltzschig Holger K.
Published: July 2017

Perioperative organ injury has a significant impact on surgical outcomes and presents a leading cause of death in the United States. Recent research has pointed out an important role of hypoxia signaling in the protection from organ injury, including for example myocardial infarction, acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute kidney, or gut injury. Hypoxia induces the stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), thereby leading to the induction of HIF target genes, which facilitates adaptive responses to low oxygen. In this review, we focus on current therapeutic strategies targeting hypoxia signaling in various organ injury models and emphasize potential clinical approaches to integrate these findings into the care of surgical patients. Conceptually, there are 2 options to target the HIF pathway for organ protection. First, drugs became recently available that promote the stabilization of HIFs, most prominently via inhibition of prolyl hydroxylase. These compounds are currently trialed in patients, for example, for anemia treatment or prevention of ischemia and reperfusion injury. Second, HIF target genes (such as adenosine receptors) could be activated directly. We hope that some of these approaches may lead to novel pharmacologic strategies to prevent or treat organ injury in surgical patients.
Chronic Hiccups: An Underestimated Problem
Authors: Kohse Eva K. , Hollmann Markus W. , Bardenheuer Hubert J. , Kessler Jens
Published: July 2017

Persistent singultus, hiccupping that lasts for longer than 48 hours, can have a tremendous impact on a patient’s quality of life. Although involved neurologic structures have been identified, the function of hiccups remains unclear—they have been controversially interpreted as a primitive reflex preventing extent swallowing of amniotic fluid in utero, an archaic gill ventilation pattern, or a fetus’ preparation for independent breathing. Persistent singultus often presents as a symptom for various diseases, most commonly illnesses of the central nervous system or gastrointestinal tract; they can also be evoked by a variety of pharmacological agents. It is often impossible to define a singular cause. A wide range of treatment attempts, pharmacological and nonpharmacological, have been concerted to this date; however, chlorpromazine remains the only Food and Drug Administration–approved drug in this context. Large-scale studies on efficacy and tolerance of other therapeutic strategies are lacking. Gabapentin, baclofen, and metoclopramide have been reported to accomplish promising results in reports on the therapy of persistent singultus; they may also be effective when given in combination with other drugs, eg, proton pump inhibitors, or as conjoined therapy. As another approach of note, acupuncture treatment was able to abolish hiccups in a number of studies. When managing hiccup patients within the clinical routine, it is of importance to conduct a comprehensive and effective diagnostic workup; a well-functioning interdisciplinary team is needed to address possible causes for the symptom. Persistent singultus is a medical problem not to be underestimated; more research on options for effective treatment would be greatly needed.
Alarm Limits for Intraoperative Drug Infusions: A Report From the Multicenter Perioperative Outcomes Group
Authors: Berman Mitchell F. , Iyer Nikhil , Freudzon Leon , Wang Shuang , Freundlich Robert E. , Housey Michelle , Kheterpal Sachin
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND:

Continuous medication infusions are commonly used during surgical procedures. Alarm settings for infusion pumps are considered important for patient safety, but limits are not created in a standardized manner from actual usage data. We estimated 90th and 95th percentile infusion rates from a national database for potential use as upper limit alarm settings.

METHODS:

We extracted infusion rate data from 17 major hospitals using intraoperative records provided by Multicenter Perioperative Outcomes Group for adult surgery between 2008 and 2014. Seven infusions were selected for study: propofol, remifentanil, dexmedetomidine, norepinephrine, phenylephrine, nitroglycerin, and esmolol. Each dosage entry for an infusion during a procedure was included. We estimated the 50th, 90th, and 95th percentile levels for each infusion across institutions, and performed quantile regression to examine factors that might affect the percentiles rates, such as use in general anesthesia versus sedation.

RESULTS:

The median 90th and 95th percentile infusion rates (with interquartile range) for propofol were 150 (140–150) and 170 (150–200) μg/kg/min. Quantile regression demonstrated higher 90th and 95th percentile rates during sedation for gastrointestinal endoscopy than for all surgical procedures performed under general anesthesia. For selected vasoactive medications, the corresponding median 90th and 95th percentile rates (with interquartile range) were norepinephrine 14.0 (9.8–18.1) and 18.3 (12.6–23.9) μg/min, and phenylephrine 60 (55–80) and 80 (75–100) μg/min.

CONCLUSIONS:

Alarm settings based on infusion rate percentile limits would be triggered at predictable rates; ie, the 95th percentile would be exceeded and an alarm sounded during 1 in 20 infusion rate entries. As a result, institutions could establish pump alarm settings consistent with desired alarm frequency using their own or externally validated usage data. Further study will be needed to determine the optimal percentile for infusion alarm settings.