bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling and Composite Control of Single Flexible Manipulators with Piezoelectric Actuators
Authors: Lu En , Li Wei , Yang Xuefeng , Fan Mengbao , Liu Yufei
Published: October 2016

The piezoelectric actuators are used to investigate the active vibration control of flexible manipulators in this paper. Based on the assumed mode method, piezoelectric coupling model, and Hamilton’s principle, the dynamic equation of the single flexible manipulator (SFM) with surface bonded actuators is established. Then, a singular perturbation model consisted of a slow subsystem and a fast subsystem is formulated and used for designing the composite controller. The slow subsystem controller is designed by fuzzy sliding mode control method, and the linear quadratic regulator (LQR) optimal control method is used to design fast subsystem controller. Furthermore, the changing trends of natural frequencies along with the changes in the position of piezoelectric actuators are obtained through the ANSYS Workbench software, by which the optimal placement of actuators is determined. Finally, numerical simulations and experiments are presented. The results demonstrate that the method of optimal placement is feasible based on the maximal natural frequency, and the composite controller presented in this paper can not only realize the trajectory tracking of the SFM and has a good result on the vibration suppression.
Energy Efficiency Optimization in D2D-Cellular Converged Networks for Video Delivery
Authors: Jia Meiping , Zhang Chao , Rui Yun
Published: October 2016

A new paradigm of wireless video delivery between users in the converged D2D network and cellular system is studied in this paper. D2D communication enables direct data transmissions of nearby user equipment (UE) by sharing the same time and frequency resource, thereby improving spectrum utilization, system throughput, and energy efficiency. Yet in the case that D2D network cannot provide the requested video files for the limited storage capacity of UE, users have to access the video files in the traditional cellular mode. This paper investigates a D2D-cellular converged network where users are scattered over the area of a single cell according to the spatial Poisson Point Processes and D2D users are able to store part of video files requested by other users according to file popularity. First, we derive the energy efficiency of the D2D-cellular converged network. Then, to maximize the energy efficiency of the D2D-cellular converged network, the optimal collaborative distance of D2D communication and the number of cache files are addressed. Finally, via simulations, we show the effects of these system parameters on energy efficiency and point out the existence of optimal solutions.
Fabrication and Antibacterial Effects of Polycarbonate/Leaf Extract Based Thin Films
Authors: Mahendran R. , Sridharan D. , Arunmozhidevan C. , Selvakumar T. A. , Rajasekar P.
Published: October 2016

We have reported the preparation and antibacterial activities of leaf extract incorporated polycarbonate thin films to improve the antibacterial characteristics of host polycarbonates (PCs). Crude extracts of Azadirachta indica, Psidium guajava, Acalypha indica, Andrographis paniculata, and Ocimum sanctum were prepared by maceration using Dimethylformamide as solvent. The leaf extracts (LE) were incorporated into the PC matrix by solution blending method, and the thin films were fabricated by Thermally Induced Phase Separation (TIPS) technique. The antibacterial activities of the as-prepared films were evaluated against E. coli and S. aureus by disk diffusion method. The inhibitory effects of the PC/LE films are higher for S. aureus than the E. coli, but pristine PC film did not exhibit any remarkable antibacterial characteristics. Further, the model fruit (Prunus) studies revealed that the PC/LE films retained the freshness of the fruits for more than 11 days. This study demonstrates that the PC/LE films have excellent antibacterial activities; thus, the films could be promising candidate for active antibacterial packaging applications.
Toward Noninvasive Diagnosis of IgA Nephropathy: A Pilot Urinary Metabolomic and Proteomic Study
Authors: Neprasova Michaela , Maixnerova Dita , Novak Jan , Reily Colin , Julian Bruce A. , Boron Jan , Novotny Petr , Suchanek Miloslav , Tesar Vladimir , Kacer Petr
Published: October 2016

IgA nephropathy is diagnosed by renal biopsy, an invasive procedure with a risk of significant complications. Noninvasive approaches are needed for possible diagnostic purposes and especially for monitoring disease activity or responses to treatment. In this pilot project, we assessed the utility of urine samples as source of biomarkers of IgA nephropathy. We used spot urine specimens from 19 healthy controls, 11 patients with IgA nephropathy, and 8 renal-disease controls collected on day of renal biopsy. Urine samples were analyzed using untargeted metabolomic and targeted proteomic analyses by several experimental techniques: liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, immunomagnetic isolation of target proteins coupled with quantitation by mass spectrometry, and protein arrays. No single individual biomarker completely differentiated the three groups. Therefore, we tested the utility of several markers combined in a panel. Discriminant analysis revealed that combination of seven markers, three metabolites (dodecanal, 8-hydroxyguanosine, and leukotriene C4), three proteins (α1-antitrypsin, IgA-uromodulin complex, and galactose-deficient IgA1), and heparan sulfate, differentiated patients with IgA nephropathy from patients with other renal diseases and healthy controls. Future studies are needed to validate these preliminary findings and to determine the power of these urinary markers for assessment of responses to therapy.
The Zeros of the Bergman Kernel for Some Reinhardt Domains
Authors: Park Jong-Do
Published: October 2016

We consider the Reinhardt domainDn={(ζ,z)∈C×Cn:|ζ|2<(1-|z1|2)⋯(1-|zn|2)}.We express the explicit closed form of the Bergman kernel forDnusing the exponential generating function for the Stirling number of the second kind. As an application, we show that the Bergman kernelKnforDnhas zeros if and only ifn≥3. The study of the zeros ofKnis reduced to some real polynomial with coefficients which are related to Bernoulli numbers. This result is a complete characterization of the existence of zeros of the Bergman kernel forDnfor all positive integersn.
Dynamic Self-Occlusion Avoidance Approach Based on the Depth Image Sequence of Moving Visual Object
Authors: Zhang Shihui , He Huan , Zhang Yucheng , Li Xin , Sang Yu
Published: October 2016

How to avoid the self-occlusion of a moving object is a challenging problem. An approach for dynamically avoiding self-occlusion is proposed based on the depth image sequence of moving visual object. Firstly, two adjacent depth images of a moving object are acquired and each pixel’s 3D coordinates in two adjacent depth images are calculated by utilizing antiprojection transformation. On this basis, the best view model is constructed according to the self-occlusion information in the second depth image. Secondly, the Gaussian curvature feature matrix corresponding to each depth image is calculated by using the pixels’ 3D coordinates. Thirdly, based on the characteristic that the Gaussian curvature is the intrinsic invariant of a surface, the object motion estimation is implemented by matching two Gaussian curvature feature matrices and using the coordinates’ changes of the matched 3D points. Finally, combining the best view model and the motion estimation result, the optimization theory is adopted for planning the camera behavior to accomplish dynamic self-occlusion avoidance process. Experimental results demonstrate the proposed approach is feasible and effective.
Paired Stimulation to Promote Lasting Augmentation of Corticospinal Circuits
Authors: Harel Noam Y. , Carmel Jason B.
Published: October 2016

After injury, electrical stimulation of the nervous system can augment plasticity of spared or latent circuits through focal modulation. Pairing stimulation of two parts of a spared circuit can target modulation more specifically to the intended circuit. We discuss 3 kinds of paired stimulation in the context of the corticospinal system, because of its importance in clinical neurorehabilitation. The first uses principles of Hebbian plasticity: by altering the stimulation timing of presynaptic neurons and their postsynaptic targets, synapse function can be modulated up or down. The second form uses synchronized presynaptic inputs onto a common synaptic target. We dub this a “convergent” mechanism, because stimuli have to converge on a common target with coordinated timing. The third form induces focal modulation by tonic excitation of one region (e.g., the spinal cord) during phasic stimulation of another (e.g., motor cortex). Additionally, endogenous neural activity may be paired with exogenous electrical stimulation. This review addresses what is known about paired stimulation of the corticospinal system of both humans and animal models, emphasizes how it qualitatively differs from single-site stimulation, and discusses the gaps in knowledge that must be addressed to maximize its use and efficacy in neurorehabilitation.
An Image-Based Finite Element Approach for Simulating Viscoelastic Response of Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Huang Wenke , Zhang Xiaoning , Yin Yingmei
Published: October 2016

This paper presents an image-based micromechanical modeling approach to predict the viscoelastic behavior of asphalt mixture. An improved image analysis technique based on the OTSU thresholding operation was employed to reduce the beam hardening effect in X-ray CT images. We developed a voxel-based 3D digital reconstruction model of asphalt mixture with the CT images after being processed. In this 3D model, the aggregate phase and air void were considered as elastic materials while the asphalt mastic phase was considered as linear viscoelastic material. The viscoelastic constitutive model of asphalt mastic was implemented in a finite element code using the ABAQUS user material subroutine (UMAT). An experimental procedure for determining the parameters of the viscoelastic constitutive model at a given temperature was proposed. To examine the capability of the model and the accuracy of the parameter, comparisons between the numerical predictions and the observed laboratory results of bending and compression tests were conducted. Finally, the verified digital sample of asphalt mixture was used to predict the asphalt mixture viscoelastic behavior under dynamic loading and creep-recovery loading. Simulation results showed that the presented image-based digital sample may be appropriate for predicting the mechanical behavior of asphalt mixture when all the mechanical properties for different phases became available.
The Prevalence ofS. aureusSkin and Soft Tissue Infections in Patients with Pemphigus
Authors: Fagheei Aghmiyuni Zeinab , Khorshidi Ahmad , Moniri Rezvan , Soori Tahereh , Musavi Seyed Gholam Abbas
Published: October 2016

Pemphigus vulgaris are autoimmune blistering diseases that may result in significant morbidity and death. Immunosuppressive therapy of pemphigus vulgaris would predispose the patients to infections. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence ofS. aureusinfection andPVLgene in patients with pemphigus admitted to dermatology clinic.Materials and Methods. This descriptive study was conducted on 196 pemphigus vulgaris patients (119 males, 77 females) admitted to dermatology clinic between 2014 and 2015. In this study, the diagnosis of pemphigus vulgaris was made by histology, immunofluorescence pattern of perilesional skin, and indirect immunofluorescence testing of serum. Data were collected through a questionnaire.Results. 59.1% of pemphigus vulgaris patients hadS. aureusinfection. 49 out of 116 were methicillin-resistant.PVLgene was detected in 25 out of 116S. aureuspositive patients.Conclusion. This is the first report ofS. aureusinfection in pemphigus patients in Iran. More than forty percent of isolates were methicillin-resistantS. aureus.PVLgene carried by methicillin-resistantS. aureuswas high in this study.
Responsiveness of the Spanish Version of the “Skin Cancer Index”
Authors: de Troya-Martín M. , Rivas-Ruiz F. , Blázquez-Sánchez N. , Fernández-Canedo I. , Aguilar-Bernier M. , Repiso-Jiménez J. B. , Toribio-Montero J. C. , Jones-Caballero M. , Rhee J.
Published: October 2016

Background.Skin Cancer Index (SCI) is a specific questionnaire measuring health related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with cervicofacial non-melanoma skin cancer (CFNMSC). The original scale has recently been adapted and validated into Spanish.Objectives.Evaluate the responsiveness of the Spanish version of SCI.Methods.Patients with CFNMSC candidate for surgical treatment were administered the questionnaire at time of diagnostic (t0), 7 days after surgery (t1), and 5 months after surgery (t2). The scale and subscales scores (C1: social/appearance, C2: emotional) were then evaluated. Differences betweent0-t1,t1-t2, andt0-t2were determined and a gender-and-age segmented analysis was performed.Results.88 patients, 54.8% male, mean age 62.5 years, completed the study. Differences betweent0-t1andt1-t2scores were statistically significant (p<0.05). The lowest values were found at time of diagnosis and postsurgery. Women and patients under 65 years showed the lowest values at the three times.Limitations.Concrete geographic and cultural area. Clinical and histological variables are not analysed.Conclusions.Our results confirm responsiveness of the Spanish version of the SCI. Further development of the instrument in Spanish-speaking countries and populations will make it possible to extend worldwide research and knowledge horizons on skin cancer.
Prevalence and Characteristics ofSalmonellaIsolated from Free-Range Chickens in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Zhao Xiaonan , Gao Yanxia , Ye Chaoqun , Yang Lingling , Wang Tao , Chang Weishan
Published: October 2016

Compared with chickens raised in intensively managed breeding farms, free-range chickens in China are quite popular due to lower breeding density and less antibiotics usage. However, investigations aboutSalmonella entericafrom free-range chickens are quite rare. The aim of the present study was to investigate prevalence and characteristics ofSalmonellain free-range chickens in Shandong province, China. During the period of August and November 2015, 300 fresh fecal swabs from different broilers in three free-range chicken farms (100 samples per farm) were collected to isolateSalmonella, and then these isolates were subjected to serotyping, antibiotic sensitivity testing, enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus-polymerase chain reaction (ERIC-PCR), and multilocus sequence typing (ST). A total of 38Salmonellaisolates (38/300, 12.7%) were recovered. The most common serotype was Enteritidis (81.6%), followed by Indiana (13.2%) and Typhimurium (5.3%). Twenty-two out of 38 isolates (57.9%) were resistant to ampicillin, the highest resistance rate, but resistance rates to cefazolin, cefotaxime, and ceftazidime were only 7.9%. The multidrug resistance (MDR) rate was 26.3%. Additionally, theSalmonellaisolates could be classified into 25 genotypes by ERIC-PCR and were divided into three ST types (ST11, ST17, and ST19), with ST11 the highest isolation rate (81.6%). In summary, as with other poultry, free-ranging chickens may also serve as potential reservoir for antibiotic resistantSalmonella, thereby posing a threat to public health.
Upregulation of Soluble HLA-G in Chronic Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction
Authors: Olesen Line Lisbeth , Hviid Thomas Vauvert F.
Published: October 2016

Left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) defined by ejection fraction (EF) <40% is common, serious but treatable, and correct diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective treatment. Biomarkers may help to diagnose LVSD and give insight into the pathophysiology. The immune system is activated in LVSD, and the immunomodulatory molecule human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) may be involved. The primary aim was to measure soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) in the blood in different stages of LVSD (<30% and 30–40%), in the midrange EF 40–50%, and in preserved EF ≥ 50% and to validate sHLA-G as a LVSD biomarker. The secondary aim was to examine associations between HLA-G gene polymorphisms influencing expression levels and LVSD. The 260 study participants were ≥75 years old, many with risk factors for heart disease or with known heart disease. Soluble HLA-G was significantly and uniformly higher in the groups with EF < 50% (<30, 30–40, and 40–50%) compared to EF > 50% (p<0.0001). N-terminal fragment-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and uric acid values were inversely related to EF. According to Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves NT-proBNP outperformed both sHLA-G and uric acid as biomarkers of LVSD. Soluble HLA-G in blood plasma was elevated in LVSD regardless of EF. A novel finding was that a combined 14 bp ins-del/+3142 SNP HLA-G haplotype was associated with EF < 40%.
Concrescence: Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Imaging Perspective
Authors: Syed Ali Zakir , Alluri LeelaSubhashini Choudary , Mallela Dhiraj , Frazee Troy
Published: October 2016

Concrescence is a form of twinning, formed by the confluence of cementum of two teeth at the root level. The diagnosis of concrescence has largely relied on the conventional 2D imaging. The 2D imaging has inherent limitations such as distortion and superimposition. Cone-Beam CT eliminates these limitations. The aim of this article was to describe a case of dental abnormality using Cone-Beam CT imaging modality. Volumetric data demonstrated confluence of left mandibular third molar with a paramolar, a supernumerary tooth. To our knowledge, this is the second case in the dental literature reported demonstrating the use of Cone-Beam CT in the diagnosis of concrescence.
Upper Extremity Deep Vein Thromboses: The Bowler and the Barista
Authors: Stake Seth , du Breuil Anne L. , Close Jeremy
Published: October 2016

Effort thrombosis of the upper extremity refers to a deep venous thrombosis of the upper extremity resulting from repetitive activity of the upper limb. Most cases of effort thrombosis occur in young elite athletes with strenuous upper extremity activity. This article reports two cases who both developed upper extremity deep vein thromboses, the first being a 67-year-old bowler and the second a 25-year-old barista, and illustrates that effort thrombosis should be included in the differential diagnosis in any patient with symptoms concerning DVT associated with repetitive activity. A literature review explores the recommended therapies for upper extremity deep vein thromboses.
Active Contours Using Additive Local and Global Intensity Fitting Models for Intensity Inhomogeneous Image Segmentation
Authors: Soomro Shafiullah , Akram Farhan , Kim Jeong Heon , Soomro Toufique Ahmed , Choi Kwang Nam
Published: October 2016

This paper introduces an improved region based active contour method with a level set formulation. The proposed energy functional integrates both local and global intensity fitting terms in an additive formulation. Local intensity fitting term influences local force to pull the contour and confine it to object boundaries. In turn, the global intensity fitting term drives the movement of contour at a distance from the object boundaries. The global intensity term is based on the global division algorithm, which can better capture intensity information of an image than Chan-Vese (CV) model. Both local and global terms are mutually assimilated to construct an energy function based on a level set formulation to segment images with intensity inhomogeneity. Experimental results show that the proposed method performs better both qualitatively and quantitatively compared to other state-of-the-art-methods.
A Pilot Trial of the Combination of Vemurafenib with Adoptive Cell Therapy in Patients with Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Deniger Drew C. , Kwong Mei Li M. , Pasetto Anna , Dudley Mark E. , Wunderlich John R. , Langhan Michelle M. , Lee Chyi-Chia Richard , Rosenberg Steven A.
Published: October 2016

Purpose: This pilot feasibility clinical trial evaluated the coadministration of vemurafenib, a small-molecule antagonist of BRAFV600 mutations, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) for the treatment of metastatic melanoma.

Experimental Design: A metastatic tumor was resected for growth of TILs, and patients were treated with vemurafenib for 2 weeks, followed by resection of a second lesion. Patients then received a nonmyeloablative preconditioning regimen, infusion of autologous TILs, and high-dose interleukin-2 administration. Vemurafenib was restarted at the time of TIL infusion and was continued for 2 years or until disease progression. Clinical responses were evaluated by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.0. Metastases resected prior to and after 2 weeks of vemurafenib were compared using TCRB deep sequencing, immunohistochemistry, proliferation, and recognition of autologous tumor.

Results: The treatment was well tolerated and had a safety profile similar to that of TIL or vemurafenib alone. Seven of 11 patients (64%) experienced an objective clinical response, and 2 patients (18%) had a complete response for 3 years (one response is ongoing at 46 months). Proliferation and viability of infusion bag TILs and peripheral blood T cells were inhibited in vitro by research-grade vemurafenib (PLX4032) when approaching the maximum serum concentration of vemurafenib. TCRB repertoire (clonotypes numbers, clonality, and frequency) did not significantly change between pre- and post-vemurafenib lesions. Recognition of autologous tumor by T cells was similar between TILs grown from pre- and post-vemurafenib metastases.

Conclusions: Coadministration of vemurafenib and TILs was safe and feasible and generated objective clinical responses in this small pilot clinical trial. Clin Cancer Res; 23(2); 351–62. ©2016 AACR.

See related commentary by Cogdill et al., p. 327
Molecular Profiling to Determine Clonality of Serial Magnetic Resonance Imaging/Ultrasound Fusion Biopsies from Men on Active Surveillance for Low-Risk Prostate Cancer
Authors: Palapattu Ganesh S. , Salami Simpa S. , Cani Andi K. , Hovelson Daniel H. , Lazo de la Vega Lorena , Vandenberg Kelly R. , Bratley Jarred V. , Liu Chia-Jen , Kunju Lakshmi P. , Montgomery Jeffery S. , Morgan Todd M. , Natarajan Shyam , Huang Jiaoti , Tomlins Scott A. , Marks Leonard S.
Published: October 2016

Purpose: To determine whether MRI/ultrasound (MRI/US) fusion biopsy facilitates longitudinal resampling of the same clonal focus of prostate cancer and to determine whether high-grade cancers can evolve from low-grade clones.

Experimental Design: All men on active surveillance who underwent tracking MRI/US fusion biopsy of Gleason 6 prostate cancer, on at least two distinct occasions, between 2012 and 2014 were enrolled. MRI/US fusion was used to track and resample specific cancer foci. IHC for ERG and targeted RNA/DNA next-generation sequencing (NGS) were performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded prostate biopsy specimens to assess clonality.

Results: Thirty-one men with median age and PSA of 65 years and 4.6 ng/mL, respectively, were analyzed. The median sampling interval was 12 months (range, 5–35). Of the 26 evaluable men, ERG IHC concordance was found between initial and repeat biopsies in 25 (96%), indicating resampling of the same clonal focus over time. Targeted NGS supported ERG IHC results and identified unique and shared driving mutations, such as IDH1 and SPOP, in paired specimens. Of the nine men (34.6%) who were found to have Gleason ≥7 on repeat biopsy, all displayed temporal ERG concordance. Prioritized genetic alterations were detected in 50% (13/26) of paired samples. Oncogenic mutations were detected in 22% (2/9) of Gleason 6 cancers prior to progression and 44% (4/9) of Gleason ≥7 cancers when progression occurred.

Conclusions: Precise tracking of prostate cancer foci via MRI/US fusion biopsy allowed subsequent resampling of the same clonal focus of cancer over time. Further research is needed to clarify the grade progression potential of Gleason 6 prostate cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 23(4); 985–91. ©2016 AACR.
Mutant BRAF Upregulates MCL-1 to Confer Apoptosis Resistance that Is Reversed by MCL-1 Antagonism and Cobimetinib in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kawakami Hisato , Huang Shengbing , Pal Krishnendu , Dutta Shamit K. , Mukhopadhyay Debabrata , Sinicrope Frank A.
Published: October 2016

Oncogenic BRAFV600E mutations activate MAPK signaling and are associated with treatment resistance and poor prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer. In BRAFV600E-mutant colorectal cancers, treatment failure may be related to BRAFV600E-mediated apoptosis resistance that occurs by an as yet undefined mechanism. We found that BRAFV600E can upregulate anti-apoptotic MCL-1 in a gene dose-dependent manner using colorectal cancer cell lines isogenic for BRAF. BRAFV600E-induced MCL-1 upregulation was confirmed by ectopic BRAFV600E expression that activated MEK/ERK signaling to phosphorylate (MCL-1Thr163) and stabilize MCL-1. Upregulation of MCL-1 was mediated by MEK/ERK shown by the ability of ERK siRNA to suppress MCL-1. Stabilization of MCL-1 by phosphorylation was shown by a phosphorylation-mimicking mutant and an unphosphorylated MCL-1 mutant that decreased or increased MCL-1 protein turnover, respectively. MEK/ERK inhibition by cobimetinib suppressed MCL-1 expression/phosphorylation and induced proapoptotic BIM to a greater extent than did vemurafenib in BRAFV600E cell lines. MCL-1 knockdown versus control shRNA significantly enhanced cobimetinib-induced apoptosis in vitro and in HT29 colon cancer xenografts. The small-molecule MCL-1 inhibitor, A-1210477, also enhanced cobimetinib-induced apoptosis in vitro that was due to disruption of the interaction of MCL-1 with proapoptotic BAK and BIM. Knockdown of BIM attenuated BAX, but not BAK, activation by cobimetinib plus A-1210477. In summary, BRAFV600E-mediated MEK/ERK activation can upregulate MCL-1 by phosphorylation/stabilization to confer apoptosis resistance that can be reversed by MCL-1 antagonism combined with cobimetinib, suggesting a novel therapeutic strategy against BRAFV600E-mutant CRCs. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(12); 3015–27. ©2016 AACR.
Ascochlorin Enhances the Sensitivity of Doxorubicin Leading to the Reversal of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Dai Xiaoyun , Ahn Kwang Seok , Wang Ling Zhi , Kim Chulwon , Deivasigamni Amudha , Arfuso Frank , Um Jae-Young , Kumar Alan Prem , Chang Young-Chae , Kumar Dhiraj , Kundu Gopal C. , Magae Junji , Goh Boon Cher , Hui Kam Man , Sethi Gautam
Published: October 2016

Increasing evidence has indicated that epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) at the advanced stage of liver cancer not only has the ability to self-renew and progress cancer, but also enables greater resistance to conventional chemo- and radiotherapies. Here, we report that ascochlorin (ASC), an isoprenoid antibiotic, could potentiate the cytotoxic effect of doxorubicin on HCCLM3, SNU387, SNU49, and SK-Hep-1 hepatocellular carcinoma cells, which had a predominantly mesenchymal signature with low expression of E-cadherin but high expression of N-cadherin. Co-administration of ASC reduced doxorubicin-induced invasion/migration and modulated EMT characteristics in mesenchymal cells. This process was probably mediated by the E-cadherin repressors Snail and Slug. In addition, ASC increased sensitivity to doxorubicin treatment by directly inhibiting STAT3 binding to the Snail promoter. We also observed that ASC significantly enhanced the effect of doxorubicin against tumor growth and inhibited metastasis in an HCCLM3_Luc orthotopic mouse model. Collectively, our data demonstrate that ASC can increase sensitivity to doxorubicin therapy and reverse the EMT phenotype via the downregulation of STAT3-Snail expression, which could form the basis of a novel therapeutic approach against hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(12); 2966–76. ©2016 AACR.
Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Patients Supported With a Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Clerkin Kevin J. , Garan Arthur Reshad , Wayda Brian , Givens Raymond C. , Yuzefpolskaya Melana , Nakagawa Shunichi , Takeda Koji , Takayama Hiroo , Naka Yoshifumi , Mancini Donna M. , Colombo Paolo C. , Topkara Veli K.
Published: October 2016

Background—

Low socioeconomic status (SES) is a known risk factor for heart failure, mortality among those with heart failure, and poor post heart transplant (HT) outcomes. This study sought to determine whether SES is associated with decreased waitlist survival while on left ventricular assist device (LVADs) support and after HT.

Methods and Results—

A total of 3361 adult patients bridged to primary HT with an LVAD between May 2004 and April 2014 were identified in the UNOS database (United Network for Organ Sharing). SES was measured using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality SES index using data from the 2014 American Community Survey. In the study cohort, SES did not have an association with the combined end point of death or delisting on LVAD support (
P
=0.30). In a cause-specific unadjusted model, those in the top (hazard ratio, 1.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.14–2.11;
P
=0.005) and second greatest SES quartile (hazard ratio 1.50; 95% confidence interval, 1.10–2.04;
P
=0.01) had an increased risk of death on device support compared with the lowest SES quartile. Adjusting for clinical risk factors mitigated the increased risk. There was no association between SES and complications. Post-HT survival, both crude and adjusted, was decreased for patients in the lowest quartile of SES index compared with all other SES quartiles.

Conclusions—

Freedom from waitlist death or delisting was not affected by SES. Patients with a higher SES had an increased unadjusted risk of waitlist mortality during LVAD support, which was mitigated by adjusting for increased comorbid conditions. Low SES was associated with worse post-HT outcomes. Further study is needed to confirm and understand a differential effect of SES on post-transplant outcomes that was not seen during LVAD support before HT.
Procedural and Long-Term Outcomes of Bioresorbable Scaffolds Versus Drug-Eluting Stents in Chronic Total Occlusions
Authors: Azzalini Lorenzo , Giustino Gennaro , Ojeda Soledad , Serra Antonio , La Manna Alessio , Ly Hung Q. , Bellini Barbara , Benincasa Susanna , Chavarría Jorge , Gheorghe Livia L. , Longo Giovanni , Miccichè Eligio , D’Agosta Guido , Picard Fabien , Pan Manuel , Tamburino Corrado , Latib Azeem , Carlino Mauro , Chieffo Alaide , Colombo Antonio
Published: October 2016

Background—

There is little evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of bioresorbable scaffolds (BRS) for the percutaneous treatment of chronic total occlusions.

Methods and Results—

We performed a multicenter registry of consecutive chronic total occlusion patients treated with BRS (Absorb; Abbott Vascular) and second-generation drug-eluting stents (DES) at 5 institutions. Long-term target-vessel failure (a composite of cardiac death, target-vessel myocardial infarction, and ischemia-driven target-lesion revascularization) was the primary end point. Inverse probability of treatment weight–adjusted Cox regression was used to account for pretreatment differences between the 2 groups. A total of 537 patients (n=153 BRS; n=384 DES) were included. BRS patients were younger and had lower prevalence of comorbidities. Overall mean Japan-Chronic Total Occlusion (J-CTO) score was 1.43±1.16, with no differences between groups. Procedural success was achieved in 99.3% and 96.6% of BRS- and DES-treated patients, respectively (
P
=0.07). At a median follow-up of 703 days, there were no differences in target-vessel failure between BRS and DES (4.6% versus 7.7%;
P
=0.21). By adjusted Cox regression analysis, there were still no significant differences between BRS and DES (hazard ratio, 1.54; 95% confidence interval, 0.69–3.72;
P
=0.34). However, secondary analyses suggested a signal toward higher ischemia-driven target-lesion revascularization with BRS.

Conclusions—

Implantation of BRS versus second-generation DES in chronic total occlusion was associated with similar risk of target-vessel failure at long-term follow-up. However, a signal toward increased ischemia-driven target-lesion revascularization with BRS was observed. Large randomized studies should confirm these findings.
From Nitrate to Nitric Oxide
Authors: Qu X.M. , Wu Z.F. , Pang B.X. , Jin L.Y. , Qin L.Z. , Wang S.L.
Published: October 2016

The salivary glands and oral bacteria play an essential role in the conversion process from nitrate (NO3-) and nitrite (NO2-) to nitric oxide (NO) in the human body. NO is, at present, recognized as a multifarious messenger molecule with important vascular and metabolic functions. Besides the endogenous L-arginine pathway, which is catalyzed by complex NO synthases, nitrate in food contributes to the main extrinsic generation of NO through a series of sequential steps (NO3--NO2--NO pathway). Up to 25% of nitrate in circulation is actively taken up by the salivary glands, and as a result, its concentration in saliva can increase 10- to 20-fold. However, the mechanism has not been clearly illustrated until recently, when sialin was identified as an electrogenic 2NO3-/H+ transporter in the plasma membrane of salivary acinar cells. Subsequently, the oral bacterial species located at the posterior part of the tongue reduce nitrate to nitrite, as catalyzed by nitrate reductase enzymes. These bacteria use nitrate and nitrite as final electron acceptors in their respiration and meanwhile help the host to convert nitrate to NO as the first step. This review describes the role of salivary glands and oral bacteria in the metabolism of nitrate and in the maintenance of NO homeostasis. The potential therapeutic applications of oral inorganic nitrate and nitrite are also discussed.
Cascaded fractional order sliding mode control for trajectory control of a ball and plate system
Authors: Roy Prasanta , Das Arindam , Roy Binoy Krishna
Published: October 2016

This paper presents a comparative study between a sliding mode controller and a fractional order sliding mode controller applied to the problem of trajectory control of a ball in a ball and plate system. The ball and plate system is a well-known benchmark to test advanced control strategies because of its multivariable nonlinear coupled dynamics, open loop instability, parameter uncertainty, and under actuation. A cascaded sliding mode controller is initially designed to mitigate the problem. Furthermore, to improve the performance, a cascaded fractional order sliding mode controller is proposed. The proposed control strategies are experimentally validated on a ball and plate laboratory setup (Feedback Instruments Model No. 033-240). Simulation and experimental studies reveal that the fractional order sliding mode controller outperforms the sliding mode controller in terms of tracking accuracy, speed of response, chattering effect, and energy efficiency.
An integrated control method based on the priority of ways in a freeway network
Authors: Ma Minghui , Liang Shidong
Published: October 2016

Traffic congestion is a common problem in merging regions of freeway networks. An adaptive integrated control method involving variable speed limits and ramp metering is presented with the aim of easing traffic congestion at merging regions. The problem of the imbalanced rights of ways of the upstream mainline and on-ramp at the merging region is solved by constructing the evaluation indices of congestion degree. Specifically, the traffic density and queue length of the upstream mainline and on-ramp are selected for use in the evaluation indices. Then, an adaptive controller is designed, integrating variable speed limits and ramp metering. The proposed method is tested in simulations considering a real freeway network in China calibrated by real traffic variables. The results show that the proposed adaptive integrated control method can prevent traffic flow breakdown and maintain a high outflow at the merging region during peak periods. The adaptive integrated control may lead to a 17% improvement in traffic delay.
Modelling and control of greenhouse system using neural networks
Authors: Manonmani A , Thyagarajan T , Elango M , Sutha S
Published: October 2016

A greenhouse system (GHS) is a closed structure that facilitates modified growth conditions to crops and provides protection from pests, diseases and adverse weather. However, a GHS exhibits non-linearity due to the interaction between the biological subsystem and the physical subsystem. Non-linear systems are difficult to control, particularly when their characteristics change with time. These systems are best handled with methods of computation intelligence, such as artificial neural networks (ANNs) and fuzzy systems. In the present work, the approximation capability of a neural network is used to model and control sufficient growth conditions of a GHS. An optimal neural network-based non-linear auto regressive with exogenous input (NARX) time series model is developed for a GHS. Based on the NARX model, two intelligent control schemes, namely a neural predictive controller (NPC) and non-linear auto regressive moving average (NARMA-L2) controller are proposed to achieve the desired growth conditions such as humidity and temperature for a better yield. Finally, closed-loop performances of the above two control schemes for servo and regulatory operations are analysed for various operating conditions using performance indices.
Physical Strength as a Cue to Dominance
Authors: Toscano Hugo , Schubert Thomas W. , Dotsch Ron , Falvello Virginia , Todorov Alexander
Published: October 2016

We investigate both similarities and differences between dominance and strength judgments using a data-driven approach. First, we created statistical face shape models of judgments of both dominance and physical strength. The resulting faces representing dominance and strength were highly similar, and participants were at chance in discriminating faces generated by the two models. Second, although the models are highly correlated, it is possible to create a model that captures their differences. This model generates faces that vary from dominant-yet-physically weak to nondominant-yet-physically strong. Participants were able to identify the difference in strength between the physically strong-yet-nondominant faces and the physically weak-yet-dominant faces. However, this was not the case for identifying dominance. These results suggest that representations of social dominance and physical strength are highly similar, and that strength is used as a cue for dominance more than dominance is used as a cue for strength.
Fabrication and characterization of novel polyvinylidene fluoride ultrafiltration membranes for separation of Cr(VI) from wastewater
Authors: Wang XJ , Li Y , Lu XJ , Xu WY , Zhao W , Wang LG
Published: October 2016

Hexavalent chromium is one of the major heavy metals. As the environmental legislation becomes increasingly strict, looking for new technology to treat hexavalent chromium is becoming more and more important. In this research, 2-mercaptobenzothiazole was used to blend polyvinylidene fluoride to prepare a modified membrane that could be applied to adsorb and purify water containing hexavalent chromium. The membrane performance was characterized by infrared spectroscopy (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and water contact angle measurements. The experimental results showed that the pure water flux of the membrane was 255.57 l/m2 h, the contact angle was 80.1°, and the adsorption capacity of chromium ion was 241 µg/cm2. The polyvinylidene fluoride-modified membrane presented better adsorption abilities for chromium ion than that of the traditional polyvinylidene fluoride membrane.
A rapid preparative method for the purification of vitamin E acetate by kinetic reverse phase chromatography
Authors: Ingle Umesh M , Lali Arvind M
Published: October 2016

Alpha-tocopherol or vitamin E is an essential food ingredient. Due to high purity requirement in food applications, it is majorly produced in the acetate form through chemical routes. However, the isolation of food grade vitamin E acetate (VEA) is critical due to the co-generation of close characteristic impurities in the production processes. The work undertaken here provides a new kinetic chromatography method for production of food grade VEA. In this work, suitable adsorbent for chromatography separation was selected based on shallow-bed binding–elution characteristics. Loading conditions were identified by frontal adsorption behavior. Kinetic parameters and bed height for the purification was predicted by establishing the relationship between bed height, purity and the relative separation factor (RSF). The RSF of 2.8 and corresponding bed height is predicted from the established relationship for the separation of VEA from impurities. The bed height of 170 cm with isocratic mobile phase of 2% (wt/wt) water in methanol provides 98 wt.% purity of VEA with recovery of 90%. This work has highlighted methodology based on kinetic parameters for the separation of close characteristic impurities from target molecule. This work also provided the application of simple handy tools like RSF and dual wavelength detection for the rapid development of preparative separation process for VEA and other such valuable components from unknown impurities.
Using Generalizability Theory to Examine the Dependability of Scores From the Learning Target Rating Scale
Authors: McLaughlin Tara W. , Snyder Patricia A. , Algina James
Published: October 2016

The Learning Target Rating Scale (LTRS) is a measure designed to evaluate the quality of teacher-developed learning targets for embedded instruction for early learning. In the present study, we examined the measurement dependability of LTRS scores by conducting a generalizability study (G-study). We used a partially nested, three-facet model to estimate the variance of LTRS scores due to teachers, children, learning targets, and raters. We used these variance components to conduct a decision study (D-study) to investigate how data collection and scoring design affected the dependability of scores and to help inform future use. Findings supported the dependability of LTRS scores when used with one rater and when at least six learning targets are obtained from teachers. We discuss potential refinements for the LTRS based on the G- and D-studies and implications for using it in practice.
Social Work Contribution to Desistance Among At-Risk Youth
Authors: Cheung Chau-kiu , Li Jessica Chi-mei , Lee Tak-yan
Published: October 2016

Desistance as a process to forgo delinquent habits is an important target for intervention into youth at risk of delinquency. The intervention through social work services, nevertheless, has not clearly demonstrated its effectiveness. For such a demonstration, the present study examines the contribution of social work services with reference to the voluntaristic theory of action. The theory suggests that promoting the youth’s voluntarism underlying desistance, encompassing appreciation, facilitation, observation, and identification concerning desistance is essential. The suggestion leads to the hypothesis that social work services promote the youth’s desistance through the promotion of voluntarism for desistance. This hypothesis gets support from this study of 586 at-risk youths in Hong Kong, with data collected from both the youths and their responsible social workers. The support implies the value of social work services for sustaining the youth’s desistance.
Rehabilitation Protocols After Isolated Meniscal Repair: A Systematic Review
Authors: O’Donnell Kevin , Freedman Kevin B. , Tjoumakaris Fotios P.
Published: October 2016

Background:

Current postoperative rehabilitation protocols after isolated meniscal repair vary widely. No consensus exists with regard to the optimal amount of weightbearing, range of motion, or speed at which the patient progresses through the rehabilitation phases. Confounding factors including concomitant ligamentous or cartilaginous injuries have made studying isolated meniscal tears problematic.

Purpose:

To systematically review and evaluate the influence of range of motion and weightbearing status during the postoperative rehabilitation period after isolated meniscal repair on clinical efficacy and outcome scores.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Methods:

A search of PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted. The selection criteria for inclusion were English-language in vivo clinical studies reporting on isolated meniscal repairs utilizing an arthroscopically assisted technique that outlined the postoperative rehabilitation protocol and included at least a 2-year follow-up. Titles, abstracts, and articles were reviewed, and data concerning patient demographics, tear type, repair technique, postoperative protocol details, clinical failures, and outcome scores were extracted from the eligible studies. Rehabilitation protocols were divided into “accelerated,” “motion restricted,” “weight restricted,” and “dual restricted” according to the limitations placed on the treatment groups.

Results:

Fifteen studies, containing 17 different treatment groups, met the inclusion criteria. The 2 accelerated groups, 2 motion-restricted groups, 4 weight-restricted groups, and 9 dual-restricted groups showed similar efficacy in terms of clinical success and postoperative outcome scores. Early range of motion and weightbearing status showed no influence over clinical outcomes. Of the 17 groups, 13 reported a greater than 70% clinical success rate with significant variation in the tear type, fixation technique, and postoperative restrictions.

Conclusion:

Early range of motion and immediate postoperative weightbearing appear to have no detrimental effect on the chances for clinical success after isolated meniscal repair. Significant variation exists between postoperative protocols, with no current consensus on the ideal parameters for weightbearing and range of motion. Studies reporting outcomes regarding isolated meniscal repair are limited. Future research should include determining the ideal combination of weightbearing and range of motion for specific tear types.
Consideration of food wastage along the supply chain in lifecycle assessments: A mini-review based on the case of tomatoes
Authors: Bernstad Anna Karin , Cánovas Alba , Valle Rogerio
Published: October 2016

In recent years, increased light has been shed on the large amounts of food wasted along the food supply chain (FSC). As lifecycle assessments (LCAs) are commonly used for estimations of environmental impacts from food production, it is relevant to investigate and discuss how such wastage is reflected in foodstuff LCAs. The objective of the present paper is to review a larger set of LCAs of foodstuff in order to (1) investigate if and how wastage along the FSC is addressed and (2) explore the importance of including wastage accumulated along the FSC in terms of environmental impacts. Twenty-eight LCA case studies and two review papers, focusing on tomatoes, were reviewed and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions chosen as indicator for the second objective. Only one third of the studies consider wastage at some part of the supply chain, in many cases in an inconsistent manner, and only in nine cases were GHG emissions from wastage included in overall systems GHG emissions. In these, wastage accounts for between 2 and 33% of total contribution to climate change. Omitting wastage when conducting LCA of foodstuff could result in underestimations of environmental impacts. Occurrence of wastage along all phases of the supply chain should be acknowledged in order to estimate environmental benefits from prevention and to identify areas where strategies with the aim of reducing wastage could be most efficient.