bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonisothermic Finite Deformations of Hypoelastic Bodies
Authors: Astapov Yuri , Vadim Glagolev , Dmitrii Khristich , Alexey Markin , Marina Sokolova
Published: December 2016

Variational formulation of a coupled thermomechanical problem of anisotropic solids for the case of nonisothermal finite deformations in a reference configuration is shown. The formulation of the problem includes: a condition of equilibrium flow of a deformation process in the reference configuration; an equation of a coupled heat conductivity in a variational form, in which an influence of deformation characteristics of a process on the temperature field is taken into account; constitutive relations for a thermohypoelastic material; kinematic and evolutional relations; initial and boundary conditions. The obtained solutions show the development of stress–strain state and temperature changing in axisymmetric bodies in the case of finite deformations.
Sound Transmission Through a Double-Wall Structure Coupled with Two Trapezoidal Acoustic Cavities
Authors: Yang Haosen , Zheng Hui , Xie Xiang
Published: December 2016

This paper aims at investigating the sound transmission mechanism of a flexibly-linked finite length double-wall structure. The problem stems from the modeling of sound transmission through corrugated core sandwich panels for predicting its transmission loss. The spatial segmentation of the acoustic gap and fully structure-acoustic coupling effect between the flexural vibration of the inclined mechanical link and the two adjacent trapezoidal acoustic cavities are considered. The theoretical model of the considered vibro-acoustic system is developed by using the modal superposition method in conjunction with envelope rectangular technique. Based on the developed theoretical model, the general vibro-acoustics characteristics of the system is presented. Particularly by using the [Formula: see text] mode of the acoustic cavity and the first structural modal frequency, the ratio between the aerostatic stiffness and the structural stiffness is formulated, and a criterion is proposed to determine whether the sound insulation performance of the vibro-acoustic system is controlled mainly by the structure or the acoustic cavity. Numerical investigations reveal that with different stiffness ratio, the acoustic cavity affects the sound transmission through both the added stiffness and added mass following different mechanisms. Besides, the influence of the inclined angle of the connecting beam on sound insulation performance of the double-wall structure is also studied. The obtained results are believed to be helpful in the optimal design of corrugated core sandwich panels for sound insulation.
On the freeness of anticyclotomic Selmer groups of modular forms
Authors: Kim Chan-Ho , Pollack Robert , Weston Tom
Published: December 2016

We establish the freeness of certain anticyclotomic Selmer groups of modular forms. The freeness of these Selmer groups plays a key role in the Euler system arguments introduced by Bertolini and Darmon in their work on the anticyclotomic main conjecture for modular forms. In particular, our result fills some implicit gaps which appeared in generalizations of the Bertolini-Darmon result to the case where the associated residual representation is not minimally ramified. The removal of such a minimal ramification hypothesis is essential for applications involving congruences of modular forms.
One-Pot Synthesis of Nanodendritic PtIr Alloy with High Electrochemical Activity for Ethylene Glycol Oxidation
Authors: Gao Xuedong , Liu Lulu , Wang Qiyu , Qi Kun , Jin Zhao , Zheng Weitao , Cui Xiaoqiang
Published: December 2016

Nanodendritic Pt-based bimetallic alloys are one promising catalyst with three-dimensional (3D) networks structure composed of integrating branches for electrochemical catalytic reaction. We successfully synthesized dendrites Pt6Ir4 alloy with small size of 20 nm in oleylamine. The dendritic Pt6Ir4 alloy are characterized by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The electrochemical tests suggest that the as-prepared dendritic Pt6Ir4 alloy exhibits greatly enhanced ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) activity than commercial Pt/C with high EGOR mass activity, anti-poisoning and stability.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance of Heterojunction BiOI/BiOIO3 Nanocomposites Under Simulated Solar Light
Authors: Qi Yi Ling , Song Xu Chun , Zheng Yi Fan
Published: December 2016

Novel heterostructure BiOI/BiOIO3 nanocomposites were successfully prepared through a facile deposition method at room temperature. BiOIO3 is a noncentrosymmetric compound that has an internal self-built electric field. BiOI was applied as a visible light absorber to sensitize semiconductors owing to its smallest bandgap. The coupling between BiOIO3 and BiOI can combine their advantages and improve photocatalytic properties. Compared with the single BiOI and BiOIO3, the heterostructure BiOI/BiOIO3 nanocomposites displayed a significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity for the Rhodamine B (RhB) degradation. The enhanced photocatalytic performance is deduced closely related to the formation of BiOI/BiOIO3 heterojunction interface whose presence is regarded to be a favorable factor for the transfer and separation of the photogenerated electrons and holes.
A Simple Model for Solvent Evaporation in Electrospinning Process
Authors: Maghsoodlou Sh. , Noroozi B. , Haghi A. K.
Published: December 2016

One of the most important issues in electrospinning process is whipping instability and solvent evaporation that plays a critical role in nanofiber formation. This report simulates whipping process using numerical methods for a bead-viscoelastic element fiber model combined with a polynomial equation for adding solvent evaporation influence on the three-dimensional path. The suggested equation has been obtained by applying Newton interpolation polynomial operation. Then the results of nanofiber diameters for experimental data, original model and modified model are compared with different statistical methods. ANOVA analysis shows the prediction of diameters could be more accurate and meaningful. Meanwhile, a calculation forecast accuracy chart is presented in detail. It is observed that our suggested model shows more accuracy and is more reliable than the bead-spring model.
Probabilistic Performance Assessment of Retrofitted Horizontally Curved Multi-Frame RC Box-Girder Bridges
Authors: Pahlavan Hossein , Zakeri Behzad , Ghodrati Amiri Gholamreza
Published: December 2016

Bridge horizontal deck curvature and the prevalence of in-span hinges in multi-frame RC box-girder bridges have reinforced this class of bridge to response with unique dynamic behavior during seismic excitations. This paper assesses the impacts of 10 different retrofit strategies on the vulnerability of curved multi-frame RC box-girder bridges with multi-column bents based on nonlinear time history analyses in OpenSEES. Consistent with HAZUS-MH definitions, fragility curves corresponding to four damage states at the component and system levels are developed for various bridge deck radii. The results indicate that combinations of retrofit strategies should be used to enhance the desirable level of bridge performance. Moreover, the most effective retrofit strategy in reducing probable damage for a given intensity is dependent on the bridge deck radius and is a function of the damage state of interest.
Fragility Analysis of 3D Reinforced Concrete Frames Based on Endurance Time Method with Derived Standard Deviation
Authors: Tavazo H. A. , Ranjbaran A.
Published: December 2016

Fragility curves have been developed for seismic vulnerability analysis of structures and can be generated in empirical and analytical forms. To develop analytical fragility curve, the incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) method is considered as an applicable tool for seismic analysis; however, in the cases with high modeling complexity, the computational cost of the IDA method may be very high. Therefore, an alternative method called as endurance time (ET) method can be effectively used for fragility analysis. In this study, a new, accurate and cost effective method has been introduced in order to develop analytical fragility curves based on the ET method. The results reveal that ET-based fragility curves generally agree well with IDA-based fragility curves. In addition, it is revealed that a highly matched fragility function can be fitted on fragility points using ET-based fragility analysis (due to continuity of these points in every 0.01 of IM changes). It is concluded that ET analysis offers convenient and easy access to median and logarithmic standard deviation of IMs and thus fragility function can be produced easily based on these statistical parameters. Furthermore, a new ET-based methodology is presented to consider the previously experienced earthquakes (PEEQs) in generating fragility surfaces.
Fast in vivo bioluminescence tomography using a novel pure optical imaging technique
Authors: Zhang Shuang , Leng Chengcai , Liu Hongbo , Wang Kun , Tian Jie
Published: December 2016

Bioluminescence tomography (BLT) is a novel optical molecular imaging technique that advanced the conventional planar bioluminescence imaging (BLI) into a quantifiable three-dimensional (3D) approach in preclinical living animal studies in oncology. In order to solve the inverse problem and reconstruct tumor lesions inside animal body accurately, the prior structural information is commonly obtained from X-ray computed tomography (CT). This strategy requires a complicated hybrid imaging system, extensive post imaging analysis and involvement of ionizing radiation. Moreover, the overall robustness highly depends on the fusion accuracy between the optical and structural information. Here, we present a pure optical bioluminescence tomographic (POBT) system and a novel BLT workflow based on multi-view projection acquisition and 3D surface reconstruction. This method can reconstruct the 3D surface of an imaging subject based on a sparse set of planar white-light and bioluminescent images, so that the prior structural information can be offered for 3D tumor lesion reconstruction without the involvement of CT. The performance of this novel technique was evaluated through the comparison with a conventional dual-modality tomographic (DMT) system and a commercialized optical imaging system (IVIS Spectrum) using three breast cancer xenografts. The results revealed that the new technique offered comparable in vivo tomographic accuracy with the DMT system ([Formula: see text]) in much shorter data analysis time. It also offered significantly better accuracy comparing with the IVIS system ([Formula: see text]) without sacrificing too much time.
Inclusion properties of certain subclass of univalent meromorphic functions defined by a linear operator associated with Hurwitz–Lerch zeta function
Authors: Ghanim F. , El-Ashwah R. M.
Published: December 2016

By using a linear operator associated with the Hurwitz–Lerch zeta function, which is defined here by means of the Hadamard product (or convolution), the authors introduce and investigate certain inclusion relationships of certain subclass of univalent meromorphic functions defined in the punctured unit disc.
Fractional integration operator for numerical solution of the integro-partial time fractional diffusion heat equation with weakly singular kernel
Authors: Zaeri Sedigheh , Saeedi Habibollah , Izadi Mohammad
Published: December 2016

In this paper, an approximate solution for solving weakly singular kernel partial integro-differential equations with time fractional order is proposed. The method is based on using a second-order time difference approximation followed by applying the fractional integral operator and piecewise linear interpolation to compute the singularity of the kernel that appear in the discretization process. The stability of the method is also considered in the sense of von Neumann analysis. Numerical examples are solved to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the presented technique.
Micro-sized K2SiF6:Mn4+ red phosphors for light emitting diodes synthesized by a simple method
Authors: Shi Yurong , Li Wan , Wen Yan
Published: December 2016

Micro-sized K2SiF6:Mn[Formula: see text] red phosphor was prepared by a simple method. Oleic acid (OA) was used as dispersant and reductant. In a fixed condition of the mole ratio of SiO2/KMnO4, the effects of the volume of OA on the morphology and luminescence properties were studied. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to characterize the phase. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and luminescence spectra were carried out to identify the morphology and the luminescence properties, respectively. The results show that the dispersive particles of K2SiF6:Mn[Formula: see text] red phosphor [Formula: see text] 3[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m larger was obtained, which is suitable for industrial applications.
Heat Transfer and Pressure Drop Simulation of CO2-Hydrate Mixture in Tube
Authors: Prah Benedict , Yun Rin
Published: December 2016

The formation of CO2 hydrate during CO2 transportation presents a complex two-phase flow within tube. A two-dimensional CFD model for CO2 hydrate mixture flow in tube is derived based on the Eulerian multiphase flow modeling approach in which the two phases consist of CO2 gas and CO2 hydrate particles. A coupled Eulerian multiphase and nonisothermal flow model without phase-change is developed based on COMSOL Multiphysics built-in application modes. The model couples the mass, momentum, and energy equations for the two phases to solve the temperature and flow characteristics of the CO2 hydrate mixture flow in tube. CO2 hydrate particles are found to settle down during flow even under high velocity operation. The pressure drop increased linearly with inlet volume fraction from 1.29[Formula: see text]kPa for 0.1–5.2[Formula: see text]kPa for 0.5, and the related overall heat transfer coefficients of the CO2 hydrate mixture computed from the model ranged from 980 to 4000[Formula: see text]W/m2K with variation of CO2 hydrate volume fraction.
Influence of Silicon Carbide Nanopowder in R134a Refrigerant Used in Vapor Compression Refrigeration System
Authors: Senthilkumar D.
Published: December 2016

This paper deals with the influence of silicon carbide (SiC) nanopowder in R134 a refrigerant used in a vapor compression refrigeration system. The performance study was done by mixing a SiC nanopowder in R134a refrigerant. The energy consumption of the R134a refrigerant with SiC nanoparticles mixture saves 20% energy with 0.25% mass fraction of SiC nanoparticles when compared to the R134a system. The COP of the refrigerant R134a system is 1.24 whereas COP for R134a-SiC nanopowder is 1.81. The SiC nanopowder is cryogenically treated at [Formula: see text]C for 24 h and the COP is found out. The results show that the COP of R134a-SiC nanopowder and R134a-cryo SiC (cryogenically treated silicon carbide nanopowder) is increased when compared to the R134a conventional refrigeration system.
Determining ERβ Binding Affinity to Singly Mutant ERE Using Dual Polarization Interferometry
Authors: Song Hong Yan , Su Xiaodi
Published: December 2016

In a classic mode of estrogen action, estrogen receptors (ERs) bind to estrogen responsive element (ERE) to activate gene transcription. A perfect ERE contains a 13-base pair sequence of a palindromic repeat separated by a three-base spacer, 5′-GGTCAnnnTGACC-3′. In addition to the consensus or wild-type ERE (wtERE), naturally occurring EREs often have one or two base pairs’ alternation. Based on the newly constructed Thermodynamic Modeling of ChIP-seq (TherMos) model, binding energy between ER[Formula: see text] and a series of 34-bp mutant EREs (mutERE) was simulated to predict the binding affinity between ERs and EREs with single base pair deviation at different sites of the 13-bp inverted sequence. Experimentally, dual polarization interferometry (DPI) method was developed to measure ER[Formula: see text]–mutEREs binding affinity. On a biotin-NeutrAvidin (NA)-biotin treated DPI chip, wtERE is immobilized. In a direct binding assay, ER[Formula: see text]–wtERE binding affinity is determined. In a competition assay, ER[Formula: see text] was preincubated with mutant EREs before being added for competitive binding to the immobilized wtERE. This competition strategy provided a successful platform to evaluate the binding affinity variation among large number of ERE with different base mutations. The experimental result correlates well with the mathematically predicted binding energy with a Spearman correlation coefficient of 0.97.
Diagenetic controls on the location of reservoir sweet spots relative to palaeotopographical and structural highs
Authors: Poteet Jessica E. , Goldstein Robert H. , Franseen Evan K.
Published: December 2016

Many carbonate reservoirs are located on top, or down the flanks, of extant structural highs or syndepositional palaeo-highs. This study examines diagenesis in Pennsylvanian oolitic reservoirs close to the crest and down the flank of a long-lived anticline. It illustrates that the position of the best reservoir quality shifted back and forth during successive diagenetic events. Cement stratigraphy shows that early diagenesis did not enhance reservoir character significantly. Most oomoldic porosity formed penecontemporaneously with compaction. Fluid-inclusion and stable isotope data indicate that late cements precipitated during burial conditions by refluxing brines and later hydrothermal fluids. After initial burial, greater permeability existed downdip, where smaller amounts of early meteoric cement allowed for compaction. Subsequent reflux cementation initially degraded downdip reservoirs preferentially and then progressed updip, resulting in relatively uniform reservoir porosity. Later hydrothermal events are most important in affecting the distribution of the highest quality present-day reservoir. Highest porosity is preserved in wells down the flanks of the structure, where hydrothermal cements are not as prevalent. Understanding the effect of diagenesis on location of the best reservoir in relation to palaeotopographical and structural highs allows for the prediction of reservoir quality using seismic and mapping data typically available in the subsurface.
Origin and evolution of microporosity in packstones and grainstones in a Lower Cretaceous carbonate reservoir, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Morad Daniel , Paganoni Matteo , Al Harthi Amena , Morad Sadoon , Ceriani Andrea , Mansurbeg Howri , Al Suwaidi Aisha , Al-Aasm Ihsan S. , Ehrenberg Stephen N.
Published: December 2016

Microporosity in carbonate reservoirs is generated by the complex interplay between depositional and diagenetic processes. This petrographical, SEM, fluid-inclusion and isotopic study of a Lower Cretaceous carbonate reservoir, Abu Dhabi, UAE, revealed that: (1) micritization of ooids and skeletal fragments, which resulted in spheroidal (rounded) micrite, accounts for most microporosity in peloidal packstones and grainstones; and (2) transformation of spheroidal micrite into subhedral/euhedral micrite and microspar, known as aggrading neomorphism, could happen via precipitation of syntaxial calcite overgrowths around micrite (micro-overgrowths) and not only, as suggested previously in the literature, by recrystallization involving the dissolution (of micrite) and reprecipitation (of microspar). Precipitation of calcite cement around micrite (i.e. destruction of microporosity) is more extensive in the water zone than in the oil zone, which is possibly contributing to the lower porosity and permeability of the carbonate reservoir in the water zone. Similarity in bulk oxygen isotopic values of micritized packstones and grainstones in the water and oil zones (average δ
18
O
V-PDB
= −7.2‰ and −7.8‰, respectively) is attributed to: (1) a small difference in temperatures between the crest (oil zone) and the flanks (water zone); and (2) calcite precipitation around micrite occurred prior and subsequent to oil emplacement. Bulk carbon and strontium isotopic compositions of micritized packstones and grainstones in the water and oil zones (average δ
13
C
V-PDB
= +3.7‰ and average
87
Sr/
86
Sr ratios = 0.707469) indicate that calcite cement was derived from marine porewaters and/or dissolution of the host limestones. The minimum formation temperatures of bulk micrite/microspar, which are inferred based on paragenetic relationships, fluid-inclusion microthermometry and oxygen isotope data, are around 58–78°C.
Strategic UX
Authors: Siegel David A.
Published: December 2016

This forum is dedicated to maximizing the success of HCI practitioners within the frenetic world of product and service design. It focuses on UX strategy approaches, leadership, management techniques, and above all the challenge of bringing HCI to peer-level status with longstanding business disciplines such as marketing and engineering.
--- Daniel Rosenberg, Editor
Demo hour
Authors: Suzuki Ippei , Yoshimitsu Shuntarou , Kawahara Keisuke , Ito Nobutaka , Shinoda Atushi , Ishii Akira , Yoshida Takatoshi , Ochiai Yoichi , Yamada Wataru , Hiroyuki Manabe , Choi Inrak , Hawkes Elliot W. , Christensen David L. , Ploch Christopher J. , Follmer Sean , Glauser Oliver , Vartok Benedek , Ma Wan-Chun , Panozzo Daniele , Jacobson Alec , Hilliges Otmar , Sorkine-Hornung Olga
Published: December 2016

The ACM Symposium on User Interface Software and Technology (UIST) is the premier forum for innovations in human-computer interfaces. The Symposium brings together people from diverse areas including tangible and ubiquitous computing, virtual and augmented reality, graphical and Web user interfaces, new input and output devices, and many other aspects of interactive systems. The intimate size and intensive program make UIST an ideal opportunity to exchange research results and ideas. We've selected four demos that we feel best exemplify the spirit of creativity and technology at UIST.

Chris Harrison and Yuta Sugiura, UIST 2016 Demo Committee Chairs
Furious futures and apocalyptic design fictions
Authors: Tanenbaum Theresa Jean , Pufal Marcel , Tanenbaum Karen
Published: December 2016

In this forum we highlight innovative thought, design, and research in the area of interaction design and sustainability, illustrating the diversity of approaches across HCI communities.
--- Lisa Nathan and Samuel Mann, Editors
C-reactive protein isoforms differentially affect outer blood-retinal barrier integrity and function
Authors: Molins Blanca , Pascual Anna , Méndez  , Llorenç Victor , Zarranz-Ventura Javier , Mesquida Marina , Adán Alfredo , Martorell Jordi
Published: December 2016

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) forms the outer blood-retinal barrier (oBRB) and is the prime target of early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). C-reactive protein (CRP), a serum biomarker for chronic inflammation and AMD, presents two different isoforms, monomeric (mCRP) and pentameric (pCRP), that may have a different effect on inflammation and barrier function in the RPE. The results reported in this study suggest that mCRP but not pCRP impairs RPE functionality by increasing paracellular permeability and disrupting the tight junction proteins ZO-1 and occludin in RPE cells. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of drugs commonly used in clinical settings on mCRP-induced barrier dysfunction. We found that a corticosteroid (methylprednisolone) and an anti-VEGF agent (bevacizumab) prevented mCRP-induced ARPE-19 barrier disruption and IL-8 production. Furthermore, bevacizumab was also able to revert mCRP-induced IL-8 increase after mCRP stimulation. In conclusion, the presence of mCRP within retinal tissue may lead to disruption of the oBRB, an effect that may be modified in the presence of corticosteroids or anti-VEGF drugs.
Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2: differential expression and secretion in human kidney tubule cells
Authors: Emlet David R. , Pastor-Soler Nuria , Marciszyn Allison , Wen Xiaoyan , Gomez Hernando , Humphries William H. , Morrisroe Seth , Volpe Jacob K. , Kellum John A.
Published: December 2016

We have characterized the expression and secretion of the acute kidney injury (AKI) biomarkers insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 (IGFBP7) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP-2) in human kidney epithelial cells in primary cell culture and tissue. We established cell culture model systems of primary kidney cells of proximal and distal tubule origin and observed that both proteins are indeed expressed and secreted in both tubule cell types in vitro. However, TIMP-2 is both expressed and secreted preferentially by cells of distal tubule origin, while IGFBP7 is equally expressed across tubule cell types yet preferentially secreted by cells of proximal tubule origin. In human kidney tissue, strong staining of IGFBP7 was seen in the luminal brush-border region of a subset of proximal tubule cells, and TIMP-2 stained intracellularly in distal tubules. Additionally, while some tubular colocalization of both biomarkers was identified with the injury markers kidney injury molecule-1 and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, both biomarkers could also be seen alone, suggesting the possibility for differential mechanistic and/or temporal profiles of regulation of these early AKI biomarkers from known markers of injury. Last, an in vitro model of ischemia-reperfusion demonstrated enhancement of secretion of both markers early after reperfusion. This work provides a rationale for further investigation of these markers for their potential role in the pathogenesis of acute kidney injury.
Involvement of ENaC in the development of salt-sensitive hypertension
Authors: Pavlov Tengis S. , Staruschenko Alexander
Published: December 2016

Salt-sensitive hypertension is associated with renal and vascular dysfunctions, which lead to impaired fluid excretion, increased cardiac output, and total peripheral resistance. It is commonly accepted that increased renal sodium handling and plasma volume expansion are necessary factors for the development of salt-induced hypertension. The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is a trimeric ion channel expressed in the distal nephron that plays a critical role in the regulation of sodium reabsorption in both normal and pathological conditions. In this mini-review, we summarize recent studies investigating the role of ENaC in the development of salt-sensitive hypertension. On the basis of experimental data obtained from the Dahl salt-sensitive rats, we and others have demonstrated that abnormal ENaC activation in response to a dietary NaCl load contributes to the development of high blood pressure in this model. The role of different humoral factors, such as the components of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, members of the epidermal growth factors family, arginine vasopressin, and oxidative stress mediating the effects of dietary salt on ENaC are discussed in this review to highlight future research directions and to determine potential molecular targets for drug development.
Ghrelin, CCK, GLP-1, and PYY(3–36): Secretory Controls and Physiological Roles in Eating and Glycemia in Health, Obesity, and After RYGB
Authors: Steinert Robert E. , Feinle-Bisset Christine , Asarian Lori , Horowitz Michael , Beglinger Christoph , Geary Nori
Published: December 2016

The efficacy of Roux-en-Y gastric-bypass (RYGB) and other bariatric surgeries in the management of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus and novel developments in gastrointestinal (GI) endocrinology have renewed interest in the roles of GI hormones in the control of eating, meal-related glycemia, and obesity. Here we review the nutrient-sensing mechanisms that control the secretion of four of these hormones, ghrelin, cholecystokinin (CCK), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and peptide tyrosine tyrosine [PYY(3–36)], and their contributions to the controls of GI motor function, food intake, and meal-related increases in glycemia in healthy-weight and obese persons, as well as in RYGB patients. Their physiological roles as classical endocrine and as locally acting signals are discussed. Gastric emptying, the detection of specific digestive products by small intestinal enteroendocrine cells, and synergistic interactions among different GI loci all contribute to the secretion of ghrelin, CCK, GLP-1, and PYY(3–36). While CCK has been fully established as an endogenous endocrine control of eating in healthy-weight persons, the roles of all four hormones in eating in obese persons and following RYGB are uncertain. Similarly, only GLP-1 clearly contributes to the endocrine control of meal-related glycemia. It is likely that local signaling is involved in these hormones' actions, but methods to determine the physiological status of local signaling effects are lacking. Further research and fresh approaches are required to better understand ghrelin, CCK, GLP-1, and PYY(3–36) physiology; their roles in obesity and bariatric surgery; and their therapeutic potentials.
Hepatitis B Stigma and Knowledge among Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City and Chicago
Authors: Dam Lan , Cheng Anita , Tran Phuong , Wong Shirley S. , Hershow Ronald , Cotler Sheldon , Cotler Scott J.
Published: December 2016

Stigma regarding viral hepatitis and liver disease has psychological and social consequences including causing negative self-image, disrupting relationships, and providing a barrier to prevention, testing, and treatment. The aim of this study was to characterize and compare HBV knowledge and stigma in Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City and Chicago and to begin to evaluate the cultural context of HBV stigma.Methods. A written survey including knowledge questions and a validated HBV stigma questionnaire was distributed to Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City and Chicago. 842 surveys from Ho Chi Minh City and 170 from Chicago were analyzed.Results. Vietnamese living in Chicago had better understanding of HBV transmission and that HBV can cause chronic infection and liver cancer. Vietnamese in Chicago had higher stigma scores on a broad range of items including guilt and shame about HBV and were more likely to feel that persons with HBV can bring harm to others and should be isolated.Conclusions. Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City and Chicago have knowledge deficits about HBV, particularly regarding modes of transmission. Persons in Ho Chi Minh City expressed lower levels of HBV stigma than Vietnamese living in Chicago, likely reflecting changing cultural attitudes in Vietnam. Culturally appropriate educational initiatives are needed to address the problem of HBV stigma.
Superior Patellar Dislocation Misdiagnosed as Patellar Tendon Rupture: The Value of Ultrasonography
Authors: Boonrod Artit , Sumanont Sermsak , Boonard Manusak , Boonrod Arunnit
Published: December 2016

Superior dislocation of the patella with intact patellar tendon is a rare condition. Most cases in literatures were diagnosed by clinical examination and plain radiography; however there are many cases that were misdiagnosed as patellar tendon rupture. In this case, we demonstrate the use of ultrasound for diagnosis of superior dislocation of the patella in the emergency department. We also include a literature review of similar cases and discuss the advantages of different types of imaging for diagnosis in this condition.
Carbon Dioxide Adsorption in Nanopores of Coconut Shell Chars for Pore Characterization and the Analysis of Adsorption Kinetics
Authors: Tangsathitkulchai Chaiyot , Junpirom Supunnee , Katesa Juejun
Published: December 2016

The uptake data of CO2 adsorption at 273 K by coconut shell chars prepared at various carbonization temperatures from 250 to 550°C were used for characterizing pore texture of chars as well as the analysis of CO2 adsorption kinetics. The equilibrium isotherms were used to determine the porous texture of chars, employing the DR equation and GCMC simulation. It was found that all the test chars contain micropores of a size range from 0.8 to 2.2 nm with the pore size distribution becoming wider for char prepared at a higher carbonization temperature. Porous properties of chars, including surface area, total pore volume, and the average pore size, appear to increase with an increasing carbonization temperature. The analysis of CO2 uptake during the transient measurement of isotherms revealed that the kinetics of CO2 adsorption is governed by the internal diffusional transport of the adsorptive molecules. The effective pore diffusivity characterizing this transport process increases with increasing CO2 loading and passes through a maximum at a certain loading. This maximum pore diffusivity shifts to a higher value as the carbonization temperature is increased. A semiempirical equation was developed to correlate the effective pore diffusivity of CO2 with the equilibrium adsorption loading and its predictive capability is satisfactory.
In Vitro Antiproliferative and Antioxidant Effects of Extracts from Rubus caesius Leaves and Their Quality Evaluation
Authors: Grochowski Daniel Mirosław , Paduch Roman , Wiater Adrian , Dudek Adrianna , Pleszczyńska Małgorzata , Tomczykowa Monika , Granica Sebastian , Polak Paulina , Tomczyk Michał
Published: December 2016

The present study was performed to evaluate the effect of different extracts and subfractions from Rubus caesius leaves on two human colon cancer cell lines obtained from two stages of the disease progression lines HT29 and SW948. Tested samples inhibited the viability of cells, both HT29 and SW948 lines, in a concentration‐dependent manner. The most active was the ethyl acetate fraction which, applied at the highest concentration (250 μg/mL), decreased the viability of cells (HT29 and SW948) below 66%. The extracts and subfractions were also investigated for antioxidant activities on DPPH and FRAP assays. All extracts, with the exception of water extract at a dose of 250 μg/mL, almost totally reduced DPPH. The highest Fe3+ ion reduction was shown for the diethyl and ethyl acetate fractions. It was more than 6.5 times higher (at a dose 250 μg/mL) as compared to the control. The LC‐MS studies of the analysed preparations showed that all samples contain a wide variety of polyphenolics, among which ellagitannins turned out to be the main constituents with dominant ellagic acid, sanguiin H‐6, and flavonol derivatives.
Proteomic Profiling of Serial Prediagnostic Serum Samples for Early Detection of Colon Cancer in the U.S. Military
Authors: Shao Stephanie , Neely Benjamin A. , Kao Tzu-Cheg , Eckhaus Janet , Bourgeois Jolie , Brooks Jasmin , Jones Elizabeth E. , Drake Richard R. , Zhu Kangmin
Published: December 2016

Background: Serum proteomic biomarkers offer a promising approach for early detection of cancer. In this study, we aimed to identify proteomic profiles that could distinguish colon cancer cases from controls using serial prediagnostic serum samples.

Methods: This was a nested case–control study of active duty military members. Cases consisted of 264 patients diagnosed with colon cancer between 2001 and 2009. Controls were matched to cases on age, gender, race, serum sample count, and collection date. We identified peaks that discriminated cases from controls using random forest data analysis with a 2/3 training and 1/3 validation dataset. We then included epidemiologic data to see whether further improvement of model performance was obtainable. Proteins that corresponded to discriminatory peaks were identified.

Results: Peaks with m/z values of 3,119.32, 2,886.67, 2,939.23, and 5,078.81 were found to discriminate cases from controls with a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 67% in the year before diagnosis. When smoking status was included, sensitivity increased to 76% while histories of other cancer and tonsillectomy raised specificity to 76%. Peaks at 2,886.67 and 3,119.32 m/z were identified as histone acetyltransferases while 2,939.24 m/z was a transporting ATPase subunit.

Conclusions: Proteomic profiles in the year before cancer diagnosis have the potential to discriminate colon cancer patients from controls, and the addition of epidemiologic information may increase the sensitivity and specificity of discrimination.

Impact: Our findings indicate the potential value of using serum prediagnostic proteomic biomarkers in combination with epidemiologic data for early detection of colon cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(5); 711–8. ©2016 AACR.
PI3K Inhibition Reduces Mammary Tumor Growth and Facilitates Antitumor Immunity and Anti-PD1 Responses
Authors: Sai Jiqing , Owens Philip , Novitskiy Sergey V. , Hawkins Oriana E. , Vilgelm Anna E. , Yang Jinming , Sobolik Tammy , Lavender Nicole , Johnson Andrew C. , McClain Colt , Ayers Gregory D. , Kelley Mark C. , Sanders Melinda , Mayer Ingrid A. , Moses Harold L. , Boothby Mark , Richmond Ann
Published: December 2016

Purpose: Metastatic breast cancers continue to elude current therapeutic strategies, including those utilizing PI3K inhibitors. Given the prominent role of PI3Kα,β in tumor growth and PI3Kγ,δ in immune cell function, we sought to determine whether PI3K inhibition altered antitumor immunity.

Experimental Design: The effect of PI3K inhibition on tumor growth, metastasis, and antitumor immune response was characterized in mouse models utilizing orthotopic implants of 4T1 or PyMT mammary tumors into syngeneic or PI3Kγ-null mice, and patient-derived breast cancer xenografts in humanized mice. Tumor-infiltrating leukocytes were characterized by IHC and FACS analysis in BKM120 (30 mg/kg, every day) or vehicle-treated mice and PI3Kγnull versus PI3KγWT mice. On the basis of the finding that PI3K inhibition resulted in a more inflammatory tumor leukocyte infiltrate, the therapeutic efficacy of BKM120 (30 mg/kg, every day) and anti-PD1 (100 μg, twice weekly) was evaluated in PyMT tumor–bearing mice.

Results: Our findings show that PI3K activity facilitates tumor growth and surprisingly restrains tumor immune surveillance. These activities could be partially suppressed by BKM120 or by genetic deletion of PI3Kγ in the host. The antitumor effect of PI3Kγ loss in host, but not tumor, was partially reversed by CD8+ T-cell depletion. Treatment with therapeutic doses of both BKM120 and antibody to PD-1 resulted in consistent inhibition of tumor growth compared with either agent alone.

Conclusions: PI3K inhibition slows tumor growth, enhances antitumor immunity, and heightens susceptibility to immune checkpoint inhibitors. We propose that combining PI3K inhibition with anti-PD1 may be a viable therapeutic approach for triple-negative breast cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 23(13); 3371–84. ©2016 AACR.
Targeting DNA Repair in Cancer: Beyond PARP Inhibitors
Authors: Brown Jessica S. , O'Carrigan Brent , Jackson Stephen P. , Yap Timothy A.
Published: December 2016

Germline aberrations in critical DNA-repair and DNA damage–response (DDR) genes cause cancer predisposition, whereas various tumors harbor somatic mutations causing defective DDR/DNA repair. The concept of synthetic lethality can be exploited in such malignancies, as exemplified by approval of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors for treating BRCA1/2-mutated ovarian cancers. Herein, we detail how cellular DDR processes engage various proteins that sense DNA damage, initiate signaling pathways to promote cell-cycle checkpoint activation, trigger apoptosis, and coordinate DNA repair. We focus on novel therapeutic strategies targeting promising DDR targets and discuss challenges of patient selection and the development of rational drug combinations.

Significance: Various inhibitors of DDR components are in preclinical and clinical development. A thorough understanding of DDR pathway complexities must now be combined with strategies and lessons learned from the successful registration of PARP inhibitors in order to fully exploit the potential of DDR inhibitors and to ensure their long-term clinical success. Cancer Discov; 7(1); 20–37. ©2016 AACR.
Arterial Stiffness: Recommendations and Standardization
Authors: Townsend Raymond R.
Published: December 2016

The use of arterial stiffness measurements in longitudinal cohorts of normal populations, hypertensive patients, diabetic patients, healthy elderly, and patients on hemodialysis have confirmed the value of this important measure of arterial health, and established its complementary role to measures of blood pressure. Its contribution to understanding cardiovascular and mortality risk beyond blood pressure measurements has moved measures of arterial stiffness into the ranks of factors such as elevated cholesterol, diabetes, and left ventricular hypertrophy in considering cardiovascular risk. The recent international collaboration's publication of reference ranges for normal people and those with hypertension, along with the American Heart Association's recent scientific statement on standardizing arterial stiffness measurements are important aspects to consider in future studies employing these valuable methods, particularly as interventions that not only lower blood pressure but improve arterial function are tested in the clinical arena.
Protocol for Evaluating the Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index to Predict Cardiovascular Events in Japan: A Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Miyoshi Toru , Ito Hiroshi , Horinaka Shigeo , Shirai Kohji , Higaki Jitsuo , Orimio Hajime
Published: December 2016

Introduction: The cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) was developed in Japan and is a blood pressure-independent index of arterial stiffness from the origin of the aorta to the ankle. In recent years, it has been studied by many researchers worldwide, and it is strongly anticipated that it will play a role as a predictive factor for arteriosclerotic diseases. The objective of this study was to examine the benefits of using CAVI as a predictor of cardiovascular events in high-risk patients. Methods and Design: This prospective multicenter study to evaluate the usefulness of the CAVI to predict cardiovascular events in Japan (CAVI-J) is a cohort study with central registration. Participants (n = 3,000) will be scheduled to enroll and data will be collected for up to 5 years from entry of participants into the study. To be eligible to participate in the CAVI-J study, individuals have to be aged between 40 and 74 years and have at least one of the following risk factors for arteriosclerosis: (1) type 2 diabetes mellitus; (2) high-risk hypertension; (3) metabolic syndrome; (4) chronic kidney disease (stage 3), or (5) history of coronary artery disease or noncardiogenic cerebral infarction. The primary endpoints of this study are cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and stroke. The secondary endpoints are composite cardiovascular events including all cause death, angina pectoris with revascularization, new incidence of peripheral artery disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection, heart failure requiring hospitalization, and deterioration in renal function. The cutoff for CAVI against the incidence of cardiovascular events will be determined.
Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index in a Thai Population
Authors: Yingchoncharoen Teerapat , Sritara Piyamitr
Published: December 2016

Arterial stiffness as measured by the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) is a widely available method in Thailand. Data from a large cross-sectional study revealed a significant correlation of CAVI and the presence of coronary artery disease as detected from 64-slice coronary computed tomography arteriography. Futhermore, CAVI was shown to predict long-term cardiovascular events in the patients with intermediate cardiovascular risk.
Indoxyl Sulfate Impairs Endothelial Progenitor Cells and Might Contribute to Vascular Dysfunction in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Lin Cheng-Jui , Wu Chih-Jen , Wu Pei-Chen , Pan Chi-Feng , Wang Tuan-Jen , Sun Fang-Ju , Liu Hsuan-Liang , Chen Han-Hsiang , Yeh Hung-I
Published: December 2016

Background/Aims: Indoxyl sulfate (IS) is a protein-bound uremic toxin that accumulates in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We explored the effect of IS on human early endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and analyzed the correlation between serum IS levels and parameters of vascular function, including endothelial function in a CKD-based cohort. Methods: A cross-sectional study with 128 stable CKD patients was conducted. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD), pulse wave velocity (PWV), ankle brachial index, serum IS and other biochemical parameters were measured and analyzed. In parallel, the activity of early EPCs was also evaluated after exposure to IS. Results: In human EPCs, a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect of IS on chemotactic motility and colony formation was observed. Additionally, serum IS levels were significantly correlated with CKD stages. The total IS (T-IS) and free IS (F-IS) were strongly associated with age, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, blood pressure, PWV, blood urea nitrogen, creatine and phosphate but negatively correlated with FMD, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), hemoglobin, hematocrit, and calcium. A multivariate linear regression analysis also showed that FMD was significantly associated with IS after adjusting for other confounding factors. Conclusions: In humans, IS impairs early EPCs and was strongly correlated with vascular dysfunction. Thus, we speculate that this adverse effect of IS may partly result from the inhibition of early EPCs.
Altered Long- and Short-Range Functional Connectivity in Patients with Betel Quid Dependence: A Resting-State Functional MRI Study
Authors: Liu Tao , Li Jianjun , Zhang Zhiqiang , Xu Qiang , Lu Guangming , Huang Shixiong , Pan Mengjie , Chen Feng
Published: December 2016

Objective: Addiction is a chronic relapsing brain disease. Brain structural abnormalities may constitute an abnormal neural network that underlies the risk of drug dependence. We hypothesized that individuals with Betel Quid Dependence (BQD) have functional connectivity alterations that can be described by long- and short-range functional connectivity density(FCD) maps. Methods: We tested this hypothesis using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from subjects of the Han ethnic group in Hainan, China. Here, we examined BQD individuals (n = 33) and age-, sex-, and education-matched healthy controls (HCs) (n = 32) in a rs-fMRI study to observe FCD alterations associated with the severity of BQD. Results: Compared with HCs, long-range FCD was decreased in the right anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and increased in the left cerebellum posterior lobe (CPL) and bilateral inferior parietal lobule (IPL) in the BQD group. Short-range FCD was reduced in the right ACC and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), and increased in the left CPL. The short-range FCD alteration in the right ACC displayed a negative correlation with the Betel Quid Dependence Scale (BQDS) (r=-0.432, P=0.012), and the long-range FCD alteration of left IPL showed a positive correlation with the duration of BQD(r=0.519, P=0.002) in BQD individuals. Conclusions: fMRI revealed differences in long- and short- range FCD in BQD individuals, and these alterations might be due to BQ chewing, BQ dependency, or risk factors for developing BQD.