bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Simulation of a 6-Bit Successive-Approximation ADC Using Modeled Organic Thin-Film Transistors
Authors: Pham Huyen Thanh , Nguyen Thang Vu , Pham-Nguyen Loan , Sakai Heisuke , Dao Toan Thanh
Published: March 2016

We have demonstrated a method for using proper models of pentacene P-channel and fullerene N-channel thin-film transistors (TFTs) in order to design and simulate organic integrated circuits. Initially, the transistors were fabricated, and we measured their main physical and electrical parameters. Then, these organic TFTs (OTFTs) were modeled with support of an organic process design kit (OPDK) added in Cadence. The key specifications of the modeled elements were extracted from measured data, whereas the fitting ones were elected to replicate experimental curves. The simulating process proves that frequency responses of the TFTs cover all biosignal frequency ranges; hence, it is reasonable to deploy the elements to design integrated circuits used in biomedical applications. Complying with complementary rules, the organic circuits work properly, including logic gates, flip-flops, comparators, and analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) as well. The proposed successive-approximation-register (SAR) ADC consumes a power of 883.7 µW and achieves an ENOB of 5.05 bits, a SNR of 32.17 dB at a supply voltage of 10 V, and a sampling frequency of about 2 KHz.
Strategic Alliance with Competitors in the Electric Vehicle Market: Tesla Motor’s Case
Authors: Cheong Taesu , Song Sang Hwa , Hu Chao
Published: March 2016

We investigate how the choice of coopetition of the simultaneous pursuit of collaboration and competition dynamically impacts both the participating firms and also the other self-developing ones in the same market. A conceptual framework of mathematical models obtained from the arguments and insights in the literature is used to undertake an in-depth study through a multiperiod analysis from 2013 to 2020 of an exemplar case of coopetition, the two concurrently ongoing coopetition partnerships in the US electric vehicle (EV) market, the Tesla Motors-Daimler AG alliance and the Tesla Motors-Toyota alliance and the other firms which are not involved in coopetition.
ISOMP: An Instant Service-Orchestration Mobile M2M Platform
Authors: Im Cholhong , Jeong Changsung
Published: March 2016

Smartphones have greater computing power than ever before, providing convenient applications to improve our lives. In general, people find it difficult to locate suitable applications and implementing new applications often requires professional skills. In this paper, we propose a new service platform that facilitates the implementation of new applications by composing prebuilt components that provide the context information of mobile devices such as location and contacts. Our platform introduces an innovative concept named context collaboration, in which smartphones exchange context information with each other, which in turn is used to deduct useful inferences. The concept is realized by instant orchestration, which assembles some components and implements a composite component. The interactive communication interface helps a mobile device to communicate with other devices using open APIs, such as SOAP and HTTP (REST). The platform also works in heterogeneous environments, for example, between Android and iOS operating systems. Throughout the platform, mobile devices can act as smart M2M machines with context awareness, enabling intelligent tasks on behalf of users. Our platform will open up a new and innovative pathway for both enhanced mobile context awareness and M2M, which is expected to be a fundamental feature of the next generation of mobile devices.
A Power Case Study for Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline Solar Panels in Bursa City, Turkey
Authors: Taşçıoğlu Ayşegül , Taşkın Onur , Vardar Ali
Published: March 2016

It was intended to reveal the time dependent power generation under different loads for two different solar panels under the conditions of Bursa province in between August 19 and 25, 2014. The testing sets include solar panels, inverter, multimeter, accumulator, regulator, pyranometer, pyrheliometer, temperature sensor, and datalogger. The efficiency of monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels was calculated depending on the climatic data’s measurements. As the result of the study, the average performances of monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are 42.06 and 39.80 Wh, respectively. It was seen that 87.14 W instantaneous power could be obtained from monocrystalline solar panel and that 80.17 W instantaneous power could be obtained from polycrystalline solar panel under maximum total radiation (1001.13 W/m2). Within this frame, it was determined that monocrystalline solar panel is able to operate more efficiently under the conditions of Bursa compared to polycrystalline solar panel. When the multivariate correlations coefficients were examined statistically, a significant relationship in positive direction was detected between total and direct radiation and ambient temperature on energy generation from monocrystalline and polycrystalline panel.
Optimization Correction Strength Using Contra Bending Technique without Anterior Release Procedure to Achieve Maximum Correction on Severe Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Rahyussalim Ahmad Jabir , Saleh Ifran , Purnaning Dyah , Kurniawati Tri
Published: March 2016

Adult scoliosis is defined as a spinal deformity in a skeletally mature patient with a Cobb angle of more than 10 degrees in the coronal plain. Posterior-only approach with rod and screw corrective manipulation to add strength of contra bending manipulation has correction achievement similar to that obtained by conventional combined anterior release and posterior approach. It also avoids the complications related to the thoracic approach. We reported a case of 25-year-old male adult idiopathic scoliosis with double curve. It consists of main thoracic curve of 150 degrees and lumbar curve of 89 degrees. His curve underwent direct contra bending posterior approach using rod and screw corrective manipulation technique to achieve optimal correction. After surgery the main thoracic Cobb angle becomes 83 degrees and lumbar Cobb angle becomes 40 degrees, with 5 days length of stay and less than 800 mL blood loss during surgery. There is no complaint at two months after surgery; he has already come back to normal activity with good functional activity.
KioskAR: An Augmented Reality Game as a New Business Model to Present Artworks
Authors: Sekhavat Yoones A.
Published: March 2016

This paper presents the architecture of KioskAR, which is a pervasive game implemented using augmented reality (AR). This game introduces a new business model that makes it possible for players to present their artworks in virtual kiosks using augmented reality, while they are having fun playing the game. In addition to competition between the players in the game, this game requires social interaction between players to earn more points. A user study is conducted to evaluate the sense of presence and the usability of the application. The results of experiments show that KioskAR can achieve a high level of usability as well as sense of presence.
Microbiological Quality Assessment by PCR and Its Antibiotic Susceptibility in Mangrove Crabs (Ucides cordatus) from Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Carvalho M. C. N. , Jayme M. M. , Arenazio G. S. , Araújo F. V. , Leite S. G. F. , Del Aguila E. M.
Published: March 2016

The bacteriological quality of crabs from three different mangroves (Itaóca, Suruí, and Piedade) from Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, was investigated using conventional and molecular methods. The results revealed high counts for total coliforms in meat and hepatopancreas samples. PCR analyses identified 25Escherichia colicolonies in the Itaóca, Piedade, and Suruí samples, detecting 13 enterotoxigenic colonies and 9 enteroaggregative colonies. Respectively, 12, 11, and 21Vibrio parahaemolyticusstrains were detected in the Itaóca, Piedade, and Suruí samples. TwoV. choleraestrains were detected in the Piedade samples. TheE. colistrains isolated in the present study showed resistance to gentamicin.E. colistrains from the Piedade samples showed 33% resistance to chloramphenicol and the strains also showed multiresistance to several antimicrobial agents with a MAR index ranging from 0.12 to 0.31.Vibriostrains from Piedade, Itaóca, and Suruí showed 86%, 78%, and 85% resistance, respectively, to ampicillin. The isolatedVibriostrains showed multiresistance to several antimicrobial agents, with a MAR index ranging from 0.12 to 0.25. The presence of these organisms in crab meat is an indication of microbial contamination, which may pose health risks to consumers when improperly cooked.
Detection and Visualization of Android Malware Behavior
Authors: Somarriba Oscar , Zurutuza Urko , Uribeetxeberria Roberto , Delosières Laurent , Nadjm-Tehrani Simin
Published: March 2016

Malware analysts still need to manually inspect malware samples that are considered suspicious by heuristic rules. They dissect software pieces and look for malware evidence in the code. The increasing number of malicious applications targeting Android devices raises the demand for analyzing them to find where the malcode is triggered when user interacts with them. In this paper a framework to monitor and visualize Android applications’ anomalous function calls is described. Our approach includes platform-independent application instrumentation, introducing hooks in order to trace restricted API functions used at runtime of the application. These function calls are collected at a central server where the application behavior filtering and a visualization take place. This can help Android malware analysts in visually inspecting what the application under study does, easily identifying such malicious functions.
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Suture-Fixation Mucopexy and Doppler-Guided Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation in Patients with Grade III Hemorrhoids
Authors: Zhai Min , Zhang Yong-An , Wang Zhen-Yi , Sun Jian-Hua , Wen Jie , Zhang Qi , Li Jin-De , Wu Yi-Zheng , Zhou Feng , Xu Hui-Lei
Published: March 2016

Background. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a suture-fixation mucopexy procedure by comparing with Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation (DGHAL) in the management of patients with grade III hemorrhoids.Methods.This was a randomized controlled trial. One hundred patients with grade III hemorrhoids were randomly assigned to receive suture-fixation mucopexy (n=50) or DGHAL (n=50). Outcome assessments were performed at 2 weeks, 12 months, and 24 months. Assessments included resolution of clinical symptoms, postoperative complications, duration of hospitalization, and total costs.Results. At 2 weeks, one (2%) patient in suture-fixation group and four (8%) patients in DGHAL group had persistent prolapsing hemorrhoids. Postoperative bleeding was observed in two patients (4%) in suture-fixation group and one patient in DGHAL group. There was no significant difference in short-term recurrence between groups. Postoperative complications and duration of hospitalization were comparable between the two groups. Rates of recurrence of prolapse or bleeding at 12 months did not differ between groups. However, recurrence of prolapse at 24 months was significantly more common in DGHAL group (19.0% versus 2.3%,p=0.030).Conclusions. Compared with DGHAL, the suture-fixation mucopexy technique had comparable short-term outcomes and favorable long-term outcomes.
Serum Triglyceride Level: A Predictor of Complications and Outcomes in Acute Pancreatitis?
Authors: Tariq Hassan , Gaduputi Vinaya , Peralta Richard , Abbas Naeem , Nayudu Suresh Kumar , Thet Phyo , Zaw Tin , Hui Shirley , Chilimuri Sridhar
Published: March 2016

Aim.To study serum triglyceride level as a predictor of complications and outcomes in acute pancreatitis.Methods.In this retrospective observational study, 582 patients admitted with acute pancreatitis, who had serum triglyceride levels measured within the first 24 hours, were divided into two groups. The study group consisted of patients with a triglyceride level ≥2.26 mmol/L (group 2) and the control group consisted of triglyceride level of <2.26 mmol/L (group 1). We collected data for baseline demographics, laboratory values, incidence of complications (local and systemic), admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), ICU length of stay, length of total hospital stay, and death in the two groups.Results.A triglyceride level of ≥2.26 mmol/L was found to be an independent predictor of developing altered mental status (p: 0.004), pancreatic necrosis (p: 0.001), acute respiratory distress syndrome (p: 0001), systemic Inflammatory response syndrome (p: 0.001), acute kidney injury (p: 0.001), hospital length of stay (LOS) (p: 0.002), admission to intensive care unit (ICU) (p: 0.002), and ICU LOS (p: 0.003).Conclusion.A triglyceride level of ≥2.26 mmol/L on admission in acute pancreatitis is an independent predictor of developing local and systemic complications, hospital LOS, admission to ICU, and ICU LOS.
Design and Evaluation for Target Indicated Torque Based Engine Starting Control Strategy in a High Pressure Common Rail Diesel Engine
Authors: Lin Xuedong , Han Xiaomei , Li Degang
Published: March 2016

The diesel engine power demand of the start condition can be separated into two parts including resistance overcoming and acceleration realization for the reason that there is no power output during the starting process. The present paper mainly focuses on the fuel injection quantity control based on the engine power demand especially the acceleration demand for the resistance force is fixed for a specific engine, and the starting acceleration velocity is set as a target curve so that the acceleration process can also be fixed. The feasibility of the start control strategy proposed in this paper was verified by a comparison of the traditional starting control with a constant fuel quantity, and starting performance of the target acceleration based control shows predominance to the constant quantity control. And then the comparison between various starting acceleration processes, which was realized by the settings of acceleration curve slope factor, was conducted and results showed that the acceleration processes with higher slope factors perform better.
Treatment of a Coronary Bifurcation Lesion Using One Dedicated Sirolimus Eluting Bifurcation Stent in Combination with a Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold: A Novel Option for Coronary Bifurcation Approach
Authors: Benezet Javier , Agarrado Antonio , Oneto Jesús
Published: March 2016

We present a complex bifurcation lesion treated with a new two-stent strategy combining a dedicated sirolimus eluting bifurcation stent, BiOSS Lim, with a bioresorbable vascular scaffold (BVS). The advantages of this strategy compared with the conventional two-stent approach are as follows: the dedicated stent protects the carina from being damaged, the large cell at the middle zone of the BiOSS Lim gives possibility to enter easily into the side branch (SB) with any standard size conventional device, and, finally, the additional use of BVS in the SB could have a long-term benefit in terms of restenosis.
Design of Optimal Proportional Integral Derivative Based Power System Stabilizer Using Bat Algorithm
Authors: Sambariya Dhanesh K. , Prasad Rajendra
Published: March 2016

The design of a proportional, derivative, and integral (PID) based power system stabilizer (PSS) is carried out using the bat algorithm (BA). The design of proposed PID controller is considered with an objective function based on square error minimization to enhance the small signal stability of nonlinear power system for a wide range of operating conditions. Three benchmark power system models as single-machine infinite-bus (SMIB) power system, two-area four-machine ten-bus power system, and IEEE New England ten-machine thirty-nine-bus power system are considered to examine the effectiveness of the designed controller. The BA optimized PID based PSS (BA-PID-PSS) controller is applied to these benchmark systems, and the performance is compared with controllers reported in literature. The robustness is tested by considering eight plant conditions of each system, representing the wide range of operating conditions. It includes unlike loading conditions and system configurations to establish the superior performance with BA-PID-PSS over-the-counter controllers.
An Efficient Large-Scale Sensor Deployment Using a Parallel Genetic Algorithm Based on CUDA
Authors: Seo Jae-Hyun , Yoon Yourim , Kim Yong-Hyuk
Published: March 2016

We have employed evolutionary computation to solve the optimization problem of sensor deployment in battlefield environments. A genetic algorithm has the advantage of delivering results of a higher quality than simple computational algorithms, but it has the drawback of requiring too much computing time. This study aimed not only to shorten the computing time to as close to real-time as possible by using the Compute Unified Device Architecture (CUDA) but also to maintain a solution quality that is as good as or better than the case when the proposed algorithm is not used. In the proposed genetic algorithm, parallelization was applied to speed up the fitness evaluation requiring heavy computation time. The proposed CUDA-based design approach for complex and various sensor deployments is validated by means of simulation. We parallelized two parts in Monte Carlo simulation for the fitness evaluation: moving lots of tested vehicles and calculating the probability of detection (POD) for each vehicle. The experiment was divided into CPU and GPU experiments depending on arithmetic unit types. In the GPU experiment, the results showed similar levels for the detection probability by GPU and CPU, and the computing time decreased by approximately 55-56 times.
Diagnosis and Surgical Management of Nonsyndromic Nine Supernumerary Teeth and Leong’s Tubercle
Authors: Cruz Christiane V. , Soares Andrea L. , Braga David N. , Costa Marcelo C.
Published: March 2016

Nonsyndromic multiple supernumerary teeth (ST) and Leong’s tubercle are a condition with a very low prevalence and a multidisciplinary approach is required to restore function and aesthetics. So, this case report aimed at presenting a rare case of nonsyndromic nine supernumerary teeth and Leong’s tubercle in a pediatric patient, without any evident familial history, showing its diagnosis and surgical management.
Finding Ways to Lift Barriers to Care for Chronic Pain Patients: Outcomes of Using Internet-Based Self-Management Activities to Reduce Pain and Improve Quality of Life
Authors: Rod Kevin
Published: March 2016

Background. Chronic pain is prevalent, disabling, costly, and undertreated. There is clearly a need to improve patient understanding of ways to manage their pain. Internet-based programs are continually being developed to facilitate mental health improvement, providing tailored content for patients to manage their pain, anxiety, and depression.Objective. To evaluate the impact of Internet-based patient self-management education and activities on patients’ pain, anxiety, and quality of life in patients who could not access multidisciplinary pain management.Design. Observational study.Subjects. Two hundred (200) patients (61% females, 39% males, between 18 and 75 years old) from one community pain clinic in Toronto, Canada (Toronto Poly Clinic), participated. Patients had moderate to severe pain, depression, and anxiety. These patients committed to study from a group of 515 patients with chronic noncancer pain of different origins who were stable on their levels of pain, anxiety, and depression for 12 consecutive months before start of study and could not afford noninsured treatment modalities like physiotherapy, psychology, nutrition, or exercise therapy consultation.Methods. Patients were encouraged to visit two Internet sites (a blog and Twitter postings) for educational postings written by the author about exercise, nutrition, mindfulness meditation, disease management methods, evidence-based supplements, daily relaxation exercises, and overall self-management methods 15 minutes per day for six months. Patients were also encouraged to share their ideas and comments on a blog. Activity logs were kept by patients and reviewed by physician at follow-up visits. Compliance was encouraged via weekly email reminders and phone calls during the observation period.Results. Modest improvements were noted in pain, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. Of the patients with moderate or severepain before treatment, 45% reported mild levels of pain after treatment, with a reduction of severe pain from 40% before treatment to 25% after treatment (pvalue 0.0184).Conclusion. Self-management support interventions, such as Internet-based educational tools, can be considered to help patients manage their chronic pain, depression, and anxiety and may be helpful to improve the treatment outcome in patients who could not otherwise afford noninsured services.
Analysis of Urinary Prostate-Specific Antigen Glycoforms in Samples of Prostate Cancer and Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
Authors: Hsiao Chun-Jen , Tzai Tzong-Shin , Chen Chein-Hung , Yang Wen-Horng , Chen Chung-Hsuan
Published: March 2016

Glycans of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in prostate cancer were found to be different from that in benign disease. It is difficult to analyze heterogeneous PSA glycoforms in each individual specimen because of low protein abundance and the limitation of detection sensitivity. We developed a method for prostate cancer diagnosis based on PSA glycoforms. Specific glycoforms were screened in each clinical sample based on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry with ion accumulation. To look for potential biomarkers, normalized abundance of each glycoform in benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and in prostate cancer was evaluated. The PSA glycoform, Hex5HexNAc4NeuAc1dHex1, and monosialylated, sialylated, and unfucosylated glycoforms differed significantly between the prostate cancer and BPH samples. The detection sensitivity (87.5%) and specificity (60%) for prostate cancer identification are higher than those of the serum PSA marker. As low as 100 amol PSA could be detected with the ion accumulation method which has not been reported before. The improved detection specificity can help reduce unnecessary examinations.
In VitroAntibacterial Spectrum ofSodium Seleniteagainst Selected Human Pathogenic Bacterial Strains
Authors: Alam Mohammad Firoz , Safhi Mohammed M. , Moni Sivakumar Sivagurunathan , Jabeen Aamena
Published: March 2016

The objective of this investigation was to predict the antibacterial properties ofsodium seleniteagainst selected human pathogens. A group of six human bacterial pathogens includingStaphylococcus aureus,Streptococcus pyogenes,Bacillus subtilis,Escherichia coli,Pseudomonas aeruginosa, andKlebsiella planticolawere utilized for screening. The spectrum of activity was qualified based on zone of inhibition. Our study demonstrated thatsodium seleniteexhibits a strong spectrum of activity againstBacillus subtilis,Staphylococcus aureus,Escherichia coli, andKlebsiella planticola.The spectrum of activity was compared with standard ciprofloxacin disc (5 μg/disc) and observed to have satisfactory effect.
Association between Air Pollution and Hemoptysis
Authors: Garcia-Olive Ignasi , Radua Joaquim , Fiz Jose Antonio , Sanz-Santos Jose , Ruiz-Manzano Juan
Published: March 2016

Background. The relationship between air pollution and exacerbation of respiratory diseases is well established. Nevertheless, its association with hemoptysis has been poorly investigated. This paper describes the relationship of air pollutants with severe hemoptysis.Methods. All consecutive subjects with severe hemoptysis during a 5-year period were included. The relationship between the contamination measurements and the frequency of embolizations was analyzed using Poisson regressions. In these regressions, the dependent variable was the monthly number of embolizations in a given month and the independent variable was either the concentration of an air contaminant during the same month, the concentration of the air contaminant during the previous month, or the difference between the two.Results. A higher total number of embolizations per month were observed over the months with increases in the concentration of NO. The number of embolizations was 2.0 in the 33 months with no increases in the concentration of NO, 2.1 in the 12 months with small increases, 2.2 in the 5 months with moderate increases, 2.5 in the 4 months with large increases, and 4.0 in the 5 months with very large increases.Conclusion. There is association between hemoptysis and increases in the concentration of atmospheric NO in Badalona (Spain).
A Novel Compressed Sensing Method for Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Exponential Wavelet Iterative Shrinkage-Thresholding Algorithm with Random Shift
Authors: Zhang Yudong , Yang Jiquan , Yang Jianfei , Liu Aijun , Sun Ping
Published: March 2016

Aim. It can help improve the hospital throughput to accelerate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning. Patients will benefit from less waiting time.Task. In the last decade, various rapid MRI techniques on the basis of compressed sensing (CS) were proposed. However, both computation time and reconstruction quality of traditional CS-MRI did not meet the requirement of clinical use.Method. In this study, a novel method was proposed with the name of exponential wavelet iterative shrinkage-thresholding algorithm with random shift (abbreviated as EWISTARS). It is composed of three successful components: (i) exponential wavelet transform, (ii) iterative shrinkage-thresholding algorithm, and (iii) random shift.Results. Experimental results validated that, compared to state-of-the-art approaches, EWISTARS obtained the least mean absolute error, the least mean-squared error, and the highest peak signal-to-noise ratio.Conclusion. EWISTARS is superior to state-of-the-art approaches.
Effect of Intraperitoneal Etanercept on Oxidative Stress in Rats with Peritonitis
Authors: Yildirim Yasar , Cellad Esma Gulsum , Kara Ali Veysel , Yilmaz Zülfükar , Kadiroglu Ali Kemal , Bahadir Mehmet Veysi , Gul Mesut , Ketani Muzaffer Aydin , Yilmaz Mehmet Emin
Published: March 2016

Our aim was to evaluate effect of etanercept on oxidative stress parameters in rats with experimental peritonitis and investigate the availability of etanercept usage in the treatment of peritonitis in the future. Twenty‐eight rats were divided into four groups as control (group 1), peritonitis (group 2), peritonitis + cefazolin sodium (group 3), and peritonitis + cefazolin sodium + etanercept (group 4). Peritoneal tissue and blood samples were taken from all of the rats for histopathological and biochemical examination. The oxidative stress parameters were examined in blood and tissue samples. It was observed that rats with peritonitis benefit from cefazolin sodium treatment. Evaluating the effectiveness of etanercept was our main objective for this study. In this perspective, we compared group 3 and group 4 and found statistically significant decreases in oxidative parameters and statistically significant increases in antioxidants in serum and tissue samples in group 4. It is observed that there was a significant contribution of etanercept on biochemical and also histopathological results. As a result, the TNF‐α inhibitor, etanercept, in addition to antibiotics given in the early treatment of peritonitis results in more significant improvement of histopathological and oxidative parameters as compared to antibiotics alone.
The Efficacy and Safety of Jaungo, a Traditional Medicinal Ointment, in Preventing Radiation Dermatitis in Patients with Breast Cancer: A Prospective, Single‐Blinded, Randomized Pilot Study
Authors: Kong Moonkyoo , Hwang Deok-Sang , Lee Jee Young , Yoon Seong Woo
Published: March 2016

Purpose. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Jaungo in preventing radiation dermatitis in patients with breast cancer. Methods. Thirty patients were prospectively enrolled and randomly assigned to receive Jaungo or general supportive skin care. Radiation dermatitis and pain were examined at daily intervals from the start of radiotherapy until 4 weeks after its completion. The primary endpoint of this study was the incidence of radiation dermatitis. The secondary endpoints were time to onset of radiation dermatitis, duration of radiation dermatitis, and maximum pain score. Results. Jaungo reduced the incidence of grade ≥2 (46.7% versus 78.6%) and grade 3 radiation dermatitis (20.0% versus 50.0%) in comparison with general supportive skin care. Jaungo also delayed the onset of grade 2 dermatitis (35 days versus 30 days). In terms of time to onset of grade 3 dermatitis, duration of dermatitis, and maximum pain score, Jaungo showed results comparable to those achieved with general supportive skin care. No patients experienced adverse effects caused by Jaungo administration. Conclusions. Jaungo minimized radiation dermatitis in patients with breast cancer without causing adverse effects. Further randomized studies with a larger sample size are required to assess clinical use of Jaungo.
A Context-Aware System Infrastructure for Monitoring Activities of Daily Living in Smart Home
Authors: Ni Qin , García Hernando Ana Belén , Pau de la Cruz Iván
Published: March 2016

We propose a three-layered context-aware architecture for monitoring activities of daily life in smart home. This architecture provides for the inclusion of functionalities that range from low-level data collection to high-level context knowledge extraction. We have also devised an upper-level ontology to model the context in which the activities take place. This enables having a common activity-related context representation, on which to infer and share knowledge. Furthermore, we have begun to implement a platform that realizes our architecture and ontology, making use of Microsoft’s Lab of Things (LoT) platform, being the preliminary results on this task also described in the paper.
Zinc Nanoparticles at Intercrystallite Sites of (Cu0.5Tl0.5)Ba2Ca3Cu4O12−δSuperconductor
Authors: Qasim Irfan , Mumtaz M. , Nadeem K. , Abbas S. Qamar
Published: March 2016

We synthesizedZnx/(Cu0.5Tl0.5)Ba2Ca3Cu4O12-δ  {Znx/CuTl-1234}(x= 0~3 wt.%)nanoparticles-superconductor composites by solid-state reaction technique and examined the effects of zinc (Zn) nanoparticles on structural and superconducting properties of CuTl-1234 phase. Unaltered crystal structure of host CuTl-1234 phase confirmed the existence of Zn nanoparticles at intercrystallite sites. We observed an improvement in grains size and intergrains connectivity by healing up the voids after incorporation of Zn nanoparticles in CuTl-1234 superconductor. Superconducting properties ofZnx/CuTl-1234 composites were suppressed for all Zn nanoparticles concentrations. Suppression of zero resistivity critical temperature{Tc(0)}and variation in normal state resistivity{ρ300 K (Ω-cm)}were attributed to reduction of superconducting volume fractions and enhanced scattering cross section of mobile carriers.
A Chimeric Switch-Receptor Targeting PD1 Augments the Efficacy of Second-Generation CAR T Cells in Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Liu Xiaojun , Ranganathan Raghuveer , Jiang Shuguang , Fang Chongyun , Sun Jing , Kim Soyeon , Newick Kheng , Lo Albert , June Carl H. , Zhao Yangbing , Moon Edmund K.
Published: March 2016

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)–modified adoptive T-cell therapy has been successfully applied to the treatment of hematologic malignancies, but faces many challenges in solid tumors. One major obstacle is the immune-suppressive effects induced in both naturally occurring and genetically modified tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) by inhibitory receptors (IR), namely PD1. We hypothesized that interfering with PD1 signaling would augment CAR T-cell activity against solid tumors. To address this possibility, we introduced a genetically engineered switch receptor construct, comprising the truncated extracellular domain of PD1 and the transmembrane and cytoplasmic signaling domains of CD28, into CAR T cells. We tested the effect of this supplement, “PD1CD28,” on human CAR T cells targeting aggressive models of human solid tumors expressing relevant tumor antigens. Treatment of mice bearing large, established solid tumors with PD1CD28 CAR T cells led to significant regression in tumor volume due to enhanced CAR TIL infiltrate, decreased susceptibility to tumor-induced hypofunction, and attenuation of IR expression compared with treatments with CAR T cells alone or PD1 antibodies. Taken together, our findings suggest that the application of PD1CD28 to boost CAR T-cell activity is efficacious against solid tumors via a variety of mechanisms, prompting clinical investigation of this potentially promising treatment modality. Cancer Res; 76(6); 1578–90. ©2016 AACR.
Entre o não lugar e o protagonismo: articulações teóricas entre trabalho, gênero e raça
Authors: Santos Elisabete Figueroa dos , Diogo Maria Fernanda , Shucman Lia Vainer
Published: March 2016

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar o entrelaçamento das categorias trabalho, gênero e raça, visibilizando os arranjos sociais responsáveis pela criação de um não lugar destinado a mulheres, negros e, particularmente, às mulheres negras. Para cumprir esta finalidade utilizamos dados quantitativos e qualitativos produzidos por institutos de pesquisas brasileiros e por pesquisadores da temática étnico-racial. A análise desses indicadores sociais reitera que o ambiente do trabalho é um espaço adverso à diversidade. Percebe-se haver um reforçamento mútuo entre o racismo e o sexismo na medida em que se nota a existência de um cenário em que grupos não-dominantes parecem circular por territórios de outrem. Assim, gênero e raça são variáveis que interagem produzindo oportunidades desiguais para sujeitos diferentes. Diante dessa realidade, buscou-se destacar algumas formas como os grupos marginalizados tecem estratégias de enfrentamento para superar as discriminações, afinal não se deve apressar juízos que atrelem esses atores ao local da aceitação e da passividade. Apontamos, contudo, que uma análise consistente deve partir da realidade dos grupos, fugindo de generalizações precipitadas e sem incorrer em um raciocínio "se, logo", que atrele necessariamente desigualdade a enfrentamento. Ressaltamos a importância da ação de movimentos sociais antirracistas e antissexistas bem como de Políticas Públicas que promovam a igualdade racial e de gênero.
Intensificação e prolongamento da jornada de trabalho nas indústrias de abate e processamento de carnes e seus impactos na saúde dos trabalhadores1
Authors: Magro Márcia Luíza Pit Dal , Coutinho Maria Chalfin , Blanch Josep Maria , Moré Carmen Leontina Ojeda Ocampo
Published: March 2016

As indústrias de abate e processamento de carnes vêm assumindo grande importância econômica no cenário nacional, entretanto, as difíceis condições de trabalho nesse setor ocasionam o adoecimento de muitos trabalhadores. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar as características do trabalho nas agroindústrias do estado de Santa Catarina e analisar a relação dessas com a saúde dos trabalhadores. Esta pesquisa é de natureza qualitativa e, por sua vez, um estudo descritivo exploratório. Os instrumentos utilizados para o levantamento de informações foram entrevistas semiestruturadas realizadas com 17 trabalhadores e 14 profissionais de saúde. A entrevista foi subsidiada pelos registros de diário de campo decorrentes de observação participante. Por meio deste estudo observou-se que, apesar das tentativas de fiscalização e regulamentação das atividades laborais no setor agroindustrial, vem ocorrendo um processo de intensificação e prolongamento da jornada de trabalho nesse contexto, aspectos que são as principais características desse trabalho na região estudada. Nesse sentido, se destacou uma estreita relação entre a atividade produtiva nas indústrias de abate e processamento de carnes e o adoecimento dos trabalhadores do setor.
Batismo de fogo e gravador desligado: notas sobre embaraços vividos pelo pesquisador no cotidiano do trabalho de campo
Authors: Scopinho Rosemeire Aparecida , Santos Charles Dos
Published: March 2016

Os caminhos e atalhos definidos para lidar com as diferentes situações vivenciadas no fazer cotidiano dos que trabalham com pesquisa social qualitativa nem sempre são declarados e devidamente analisados como componentes intrínsecos ao campo empírico e ao objeto de estudo. Procuramos refletir sobre como certas situações por nós vivenciadas no cotidiano do trabalho científico contribuíram, substancialmente, para a nossa formação tornando possível nos situarmos adequadamente no campo empírico e esclarecermos os nossos objetos de estudo de melhor forma. Organizamos a reflexão em duas seções. A primeira - batismo de fogo - trata dos testes empreendidos pelos pesquisados para aceitar os pesquisadores no campo empírico. A segunda - gravador desligado - trata das formas definidas pelos pesquisados para a participação na pesquisa. A reflexão contribui para a reafirmação dos pressupostos da pesquisa qualitativa, no entanto, não deve ser entendida como regra de manual, mas como parte de uma experiência de trabalho singular vivida por determinados pesquisadores na relação estabelecida com determinados sujeitos em determinados espaços e tempos sociais.
Loss of Adult Cardiac Myocyte GSK-3 Leads to Mitotic Catastrophe Resulting in Fatal Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhou Jibin , Ahmad Firdos , Parikh Shan , Hoffman Nichole E. , Rajan Sudarsan , Verma Vipin K. , Song Jianliang , Yuan Ancai , Shanmughapriya Santhanam , Guo Yuanjun , Gao Erhe , Koch Walter , Woodgett James R. , Madesh Muniswamy , Kishore Raj , Lal Hind , Force Thomas
Published: March 2016

Rationale:

Cardiac myocyte–specific deletion of either glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3α and GSK-3β leads to cardiac protection after myocardial infarction, suggesting that deletion of both isoforms may provide synergistic protection. This is an important consideration because of the fact that all GSK-3–targeted drugs, including the drugs already in clinical trial target both isoforms of GSK-3, and none are isoform specific.

Objective:

To identify the consequences of combined deletion of cardiac myocyte GSK-3α and GSK-3β in heart function.

Methods and Results:

We generated tamoxifen-inducible cardiac myocyte–specific mice lacking both GSK-3 isoforms (double knockout). We unexpectedly found that cardiac myocyte GSK-3 is essential for cardiac homeostasis and overall survival. Serial echocardiographic analysis reveals that within 2 weeks of tamoxifen treatment, double-knockout hearts leads to excessive dilatative remodeling and ventricular dysfunction. Further experimentation with isolated adult cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts from double-knockout implicated cardiac myocytes intrinsic factors responsible for observed phenotype. Mechanistically, loss of GSK-3 in adult cardiac myocytes resulted in induction of mitotic catastrophe, a previously unreported event in cardiac myocytes. Double-knockout cardiac myocytes showed cell cycle progression resulting in increased DNA content and multinucleation. However, increased cell cycle activity was rivaled by marked activation of DNA damage, cell cycle checkpoint activation, and mitotic catastrophe–induced apoptotic cell death. Importantly, mitotic catastrophe was also confirmed in isolated adult cardiac myocytes.

Conclusions:

Together, our findings suggest that cardiac myocyte GSK-3 is required to maintain normal cardiac homeostasis, and its loss is incompatible with life because of cell cycle dysregulation that ultimately results in a severe fatal dilated cardiomyopathy.
Combination of Flow-Mediated Vasodilation and Nitroglycerine-Induced Vasodilation Is More Effective for Prediction of Cardiovascular Events
Authors: Kajikawa Masato , Maruhashi Tatsuya , Hida Eisuke , Iwamoto Yumiko , Matsumoto Takeshi , Iwamoto Akimichi , Oda Nozomu , Kishimoto Shinji , Matsui Shogo , Hidaka Takayuki , Kihara Yasuki , Chayama Kazuaki , Goto Chikara , Aibara Yoshiki , Nakashima Ayumu , Noma Kensuke , Higashi Yukihito
Published: March 2016

Measurement of nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation has been performed to differentiate endothelium-dependent vasodilation from endothelium-independent vasodilation as a control test for flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD). Recently, nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation per se has been reported to be a useful marker of the grade of atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of FMD combined with nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation for future cardiovascular events. We measured FMD and nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation in 402 subjects, including patients with cardiovascular diseases. During a median follow-up period of 32.3 months, 38 first major cardiovascular events (death from cardiovascular causes, acute myocardial infarction, stroke, and coronary revascularization) occurred. Receiver-operator characteristic curve analysis revealed that FMD alone and nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation alone can predict cardiovascular events with areas under the curve of 0.671 (cutoff 3.3%) and 0.692 (cutoff 11.6%), respectively. FMD combined with nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation predicts cardiovascular events with an area under the curve of 0.701. After adjustment for age, sex, and cardiovascular risk factors, above cutoff FMD (≥3.3%) and below cutoff nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation (<11.6%; hazard ratio, 5.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.61–25.46;
P
=0.006) and below cutoff FMD (<3.3%) and below cutoff nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation (<11.6%; hazard ratio, 7.20; 95% confidence interval, 2.37–31.36;
P
<0.001) remained strong independent indicator of cardiovascular events. These findings suggest that the combination of FMD and nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation measurements can more accurately predict cardiovascular events compared with FMD alone.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: UMIN000001167.
Contribution of Orexin to the Neurogenic Hypertension in BPH/2J Mice
Authors: Jackson Kristy L. , Dampney Bruno W. , Moretti John-Luis , Stevenson Emily R. , Davern Pamela J. , Carrive Pascal , Head Geoffrey A.
Published: March 2016

BPH/2J mice are a genetic model of hypertension associated with an overactive sympathetic nervous system. Orexin is a neuropeptide which influences sympathetic activity and blood pressure. Orexin precursor mRNA expression is greater in hypothalamic tissue of BPH/2J compared with normotensive BPN/3J mice. To determine whether enhanced orexinergic signaling contributes to the hypertension, BPH/2J and BPN/3J mice were preimplanted with radiotelemetry probes to compare blood pressure 1 hour before and 5 hours after administration of almorexant, an orexin receptor antagonist. Mid frequency mean arterial pressure power and the depressor response to ganglion blockade were also used as indicators of sympathetic nervous system activity. Administration of almorexant at 100 (IP) and 300 mg/kg (oral) in BPH/2J mice during the dark-active period (2 hours after lights off) markedly reduced blood pressure (−16.1±1.6 and −11.0±1.1 mm Hg, respectively;
P
<0.001 compared with vehicle). However, when almorexant (100 mg/kg, IP) was administered during the light-inactive period (5 hours before lights off) no reduction from baseline was observed (
P
=0.64). The same dose of almorexant in BPN/3J mice had no effect on blood pressure during the dark (
P
=0.79) or light periods (
P
=0.24). Almorexant attenuated the depressor response to ganglion blockade (
P
=0.018) and reduced the mid frequency mean arterial pressure power in BPH/2J mice (
P
<0.001), but not BPN/3J mice (
P
=0.70). Immunohistochemical labeling revealed that BPH/2J mice have 29% more orexin neurons than BPN/3J mice which are preferentially located in the lateral hypothalamus. The results suggest that enhanced orexinergic signaling contributes to sympathetic overactivity and hypertension during the dark period in BPH/2J mice.
Lissodendoryx (Ectyodoryx) Lundbeck, 1909 (Coelosphaeridae, Poecilosclerida, Demospongiae) from Southern Chile: new species and a discussion of morphologic characters in the subgenus
Authors: FERNANDEZ JULIO C.C. , CÁRDENAS CÉSAR A. , BRAVO ALEJANDRO , LÔBO-HAJDU GISELE , WILLENZ PHILIPPE , HAJDU EDUARDO
Published: March 2016

Our ongoing studies of the Chilean sponge fauna revealed four new species of Lissodendoryx (Ectyodoryx) that are described here, including three from the fjord’s region (< 30 m depth, L.(E.) ballena sp. nov., L. (E.) corrugata sp. nov.,      L. (E.) coloanensis sp. nov.), and one from the deep waters off Diego Ramírez Archipelago (ca. 2000 m, L. (E.) diegoramirezensis sp. nov.). In addition, the type of L. (E.) anacantha was revised and found to bear much larger acanthostyles than originally reported. Our results revealed skeletal architectures quite distinct from that reported from the type species of L. (Ectyodoryx), and not predicted in the current diagnosis of Lissodendoryx, requiring an amended diagnosis. Ectosomal megascleres also set the majority of the new species apart from the type species of L. (Ectyodoryx), which does not have terminally microspined (sub)tylotes. This character is widespread in Lissodendoryx and might be pointing to phylogenetic affinities across the current subgeneric arrangement. Further morphologic characters and alternative phylogenetic scenarios are discussed, including hymedesmiid and myxillid affinities of the species described here.
Endogean and cavernicolous Coleoptera of the Balkans. XV. A new species of the genus Ioniorhynchus Magrini, Meoli & Abbazzi, 2005 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Entiminae) from Greece
Authors: HLAVÁČ PETER , SKUHROVEC JIŘÍ
Published: March 2016

Ioniorhynchus henderickxi sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Zakynthos, Spilia Cagioti-Giri, Greece. The new species is compared closely with the sympatric I. doriae A. & F. Solari 1904. The taxonomic status of the genus is discussed, and an annotated catalogue of all anopthalmous species of the tribe Otiorhynchini of Balkan Peninsula is provided.
Lesbian, Gay, and Heterosexual Adoptive Parents’ Socialization Approaches to Children’s Minority Statuses
Authors: Goldberg Abbie E. , Sweeney Kristin , Black Kaitlin , Moyer April
Published: March 2016

This study examined the narratives of 82 adoptive parents (41 couples: 15 lesbian, 15 gay male, 11 heterosexual) of young children ( M age = 5.81 years) with a focus on understanding parents’ socialization practices and strategies surrounding race (among parents of children of color), and family structure (among lesbian or gay [LG] parents). Most parents described an engaged approach to socialization surrounding their children’s racial minority and LG-parent family statuses, employing strategies such as (a) holding parent–child conversations aimed at instilling pride, (b) seeking communities that reflect their child’s identities (more often LG than heterosexual), and (c) educating about racism and heterosexism. Some parents described a cautious approach in which they acknowledged their child’s racial background and LG-parent family status but were cautious about not being overly focused on their differences. A minority of parents (more often heterosexual than LG) described an avoidant approach, whereby they did not discuss their child’s differences.
Reconsidering Focus Groups and Rasch Model Item Response Theory in Instrument Development
Authors: Miles Joseph R. , Mallinckrodt Brent , Recabarren Daniela A.
Published: March 2016

In this rejoinder, we focus on five important themes derived from the valuable comments of Harvey; Wang, Hogge, and Sahai; and Whittaker and Worthington. Specifically, we reflect on (a) methodological and conceptual issues associated with the use of focus groups in developing an initial item pool, (b) the debate about the use of Rasch versus other item response theory (IRT) models, (c) response scale functioning and the use of item parcels, (d) bandwidth and scale sensitivity, and (e) multicultural considerations. We reconsider the strengths and limitations of the approaches that we have endorsed in light of the comments of our colleagues. We conclude with the hope that dialogue on the use of focus groups and IRT in measurement development and on multicultural assessment continues.