bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship between Resilience and Perceived Practicum Stress: The Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy
Authors: Ngui G. K. , Lay Y. F.
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study is to determine the mediating role of three subdimensions of self-efficacy (instructional strategies, classroom management and students’ involvement) on the relationship between resilience and trainee teachers’ perceived practicum stress. Hypothesized multivariate model was tested using partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS3.0 to determine the mediating effect self-efficacy on of these variables. The reflective measurement model analysis indicated a good statistical fit. The structural measurement model showed that resilience has a significant relationship with instructional strategies, classroom management and students’ involvement. The relationship between resilience and perceived practicum stress was also significant. However, the result showed that although classroom management was a significant mediator of the relationship between the studied variables, instructional strategies and students’ involvement were not. Hence, this implied that efficacy in classroom management enables trainee teachers to reduce perceived practicum stress more than efficacy in instructional strategies and students’ involvement.
Hypothyroidism in utero stimulates pancreatic beta cell proliferation and hyperinsulinaemia in the ovine fetus during late gestation
Authors: Harris Shelley E. , De Blasio Miles J. , Davis Melissa A. , Kelly Amy C. , Davenport Hailey M. , Wooding F. B. Peter , Blache Dominique , Meredith David , Anderson Miranda , Fowden Abigail L. , Limesand Sean W. , Forhead Alison J.
Published: February 2017

Key points

Thyroid hormones are important regulators of growth and maturation before birth, although the extent to which their actions are mediated by insulin and the development of pancreatic beta cell mass is unknown.

Hypothyroidism in fetal sheep induced by removal of the thyroid gland caused asymmetric organ growth, increased pancreatic beta cell mass and proliferation, and was associated with increased circulating concentrations of insulin and leptin.

In isolated fetal sheep islets studied in vitro, thyroid hormones inhibited beta cell proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner, while high concentrations of insulin and leptin stimulated proliferation.

The developing pancreatic beta cell is therefore sensitive to thyroid hormone, insulin and leptin before birth, with possible consequences for pancreatic function in fetal and later life.

The findings of this study highlight the importance of thyroid hormones during pregnancy for normal development of the fetal pancreas.

Development of pancreatic beta cell mass before birth is essential for normal growth of the fetus and for long‐term control of carbohydrate metabolism in postnatal life. Thyroid hormones are also important regulators of fetal growth, and the present study tested the hypotheses that thyroid hormones promote beta cell proliferation in the fetal ovine pancreatic islets, and that growth retardation in hypothyroid fetal sheep is associated with reductions in pancreatic beta cell mass and circulating insulin concentration in utero. Organ growth and pancreatic islet cell proliferation and mass were examined in sheep fetuses following removal of the thyroid gland in utero. The effects of triiodothyronine (T3), insulin and leptin on beta cell proliferation rates were determined in isolated fetal ovine pancreatic islets in vitro. Hypothyroidism in the sheep fetus resulted in an asymmetric pattern of organ growth, pancreatic beta cell hyperplasia, and elevated plasma insulin and leptin concentrations. In pancreatic islets isolated from intact fetal sheep, beta cell proliferation in vitro was reduced by T3 in a dose‐dependent manner and increased by insulin at high concentrations only. Leptin induced a bimodal response whereby beta cell proliferation was suppressed at the lowest, and increased at the highest, concentrations. Therefore, proliferation of beta cells isolated from the ovine fetal pancreas is sensitive to physiological concentrations of T3, insulin and leptin. Alterations in these hormones may be responsible for the increased beta cell proliferation and mass observed in the hypothyroid sheep fetus and may have consequences for pancreatic function in later life.
Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor Technology: Its Relevance Today
Authors: Nayak A. K. , Banerjee S.
Published: February 2017

The pressurized heavy water reactor (PHWR) technology was conceived in Canada and has moved to several nations for commercial production of electricity. Currently, 49 power reactors operate with PHWR technology producing nearly 25 GWe. The technology is flexible for adopting different fuel cycle options which include natural uranium, different mixed oxide (MOX) fuel, and thorium. The technology has made substantial improvement in materials, construction, and safety since its inception. PHWRs have demonstrated excellent performance historically. Their safety statistics are excellent. Indian PHWRs also have shown economic competitiveness even in small sizes, thus providing an ideal design for new entrants. While the technology features of PHWRs are available even in textbooks, the objective of this paper is to highlight the historical development and salient features, and innovations for further improvement in operation, safety and economics. Thus, this paper shall serve as a curtain raiser for the special issue “Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) Safety: Post Fukushima.”
An Analytical Formulation for the Lateral Support Stiffness of a Spatial Flexure Strip
Authors: Nijenhuis Marijn , Meijaard J. P. , Mariappan Dhanushkodi , Herder Just L. , Brouwer Dannis M. , Awtar Shorya
Published: February 2017

A flexure strip has constraint characteristics, such as stiffness properties and error motions, that govern its performance as a basic constituent of flexure mechanisms. This paper presents a new modeling approach for obtaining insight into the deformation and stiffness characteristics of general three-dimensional flexure strips that exhibit bending, shear, and torsion deformation. The approach is based on the use of a discretized version of a finite (i.e., nonlinear) strain spatial beam formulation for extracting analytical expressions that describe deformation and stiffness characteristics of a flexure strip in a parametric format. This particular way of closed-form modeling exploits the inherent finite-element assumptions on interpolation and also lends itself for numeric implementation. As a validating case study, a closed-form parametric expression is derived for the lateral support stiffness of a flexure strip and a parallelogram flexure mechanism. This captures a combined torsion–bending dictated geometrically nonlinear effect that undermines the support bearing stiffness when the mechanism moves in the intended degree of freedom (DoF). The analytical result is verified by simulations and experimental measurements.
Lipid Signaling via Pkh1/2 Regulates Fungal CO
2
Sensing through the Kinase Sch9
Authors: Pohlers Susann , Martin Ronny , Krüger Thomas , Hellwig Daniela , Hänel Frank , Kniemeyer Olaf , Saluz Hans Peter , Van Dijck Patrick , Ernst Joachim F. , Brakhage Axel , Mühlschlegel Fritz A. , Kurzai Oliver
Published: February 2017

Adaptation to alternating CO
2
concentrations is crucial for all organisms. Carbonic anhydrases—metalloenzymes that have been found in all domains of life—enable fixation of scarce CO
2
by accelerating its conversion to bicarbonate and ensure maintenance of cellular metabolism. In fungi and other eukaryotes, the carbonic anhydrase Nce103 has been shown to be essential for growth in air (~0.04% CO
2
). Expression of
NCE103
is regulated in response to CO
2
availability. In
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
,
NCE103
is activated by the transcription factor ScCst6, and in
Candida albicans
and
Candida glabrata
, it is activated by its homologues CaRca1 and CgRca1, respectively. To identify the kinase controlling Cst6/Rca1, we screened an
S. cerevisiae
kinase/phosphatase mutant library for the ability to regulate
NCE103
in a CO
2
-dependent manner. We identified ScSch9 as a potential ScCst6-specific kinase, as the
sch9
Δ mutant strain showed deregulated
NCE103
expression on the RNA and protein levels. Immunoprecipitation revealed the binding capabilities of both proteins, and detection of ScCst6 phosphorylation by ScSch9
in vitro
confirmed Sch9 as the Cst6 kinase. We could show that CO
2
-dependent activation of Sch9, which is part of a kinase cascade, is mediated by lipid/Pkh1/2 signaling but not TORC1. Finally, we tested conservation of the identified regulatory cascade in the pathogenic yeast species
C. albicans
and
C. glabrata
. Deletion of
SCH9
homologues of both species impaired CO
2
-dependent regulation of
NCE103
expression, which indicates a conservation of the CO
2
adaptation mechanism among yeasts. Thus, Sch9 is a Cst6/Rca1 kinase that links CO
2
adaptation to lipid signaling via Pkh1/2 in fungi.

IMPORTANCE
All living organisms have to cope with alternating CO
2
concentrations as CO
2
levels range from very low in the atmosphere (0.04%) to high (5% and more) in other niches, including the human body. In fungi, CO
2
is sensed via two pathways. The first regulates virulence in pathogenic yeast by direct activation of adenylyl cyclase. The second pathway, although playing a fundamental role in fungal metabolism, is much less understood. Here the transcription factor Cst6/Rca1 controls carbon homeostasis by regulating carbonic anhydrase expression. Upstream signaling in this pathway remains elusive. We identify Sch9 as the kinase controlling Cst6/Rca1 activity in yeast and demonstrate that this pathway is conserved in pathogenic yeast species, which highlights identified key players as potential pharmacological targets. Furthermore, we provide a direct link between adaptation to changing CO
2
conditions and lipid/Pkh1/2 signaling in yeast, thus establishing a new signaling cascade central to metabolic adaptation.
A novel molecular assay using hybridisation probes and melt curve analysis forCALRexon 9 mutation detection in myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Keaney Thomas , O'Connor Louise , Krawczyk Janusz , Abdelrahman Moutaz A , Hayat Amjad H , Murray Margaret , O'Dwyer Michael , Percy Melanie , Langabeer Stehpen , Haslam Karl , Glynn Barry , Mullen Ciara , Keady Evelyn , Lahiff Sinéad , Smith Terry J
Published: February 2017

Aims

Somatic insertions/deletions in exon 9 of the calreticulin gene have been identified in patients with essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis. Over 55 mutations have been discovered, 80% of which consist of either type 1 52-bp deletion or type 2 5-bp insertion. Other mutations (types 3–5) in conjunction with types 1 and 2 account for >87% of identified mutations. The aim of this study was development of a rapid PCR-based assay using LightCycler Hybridisation Probes for the detection of type 1–5CALRmutations.

Method

A real-time PCR assay using a novel HybProbe set was developed for use on the LightCycler 480 Instrument II. The acceptor probe was labelled with LC640 and Faststart DNA Master HybProbe kit was used for PCR reactions.

Results

Assay limit of detection was determined to be seven target copies with a probability of 95%. The specificity of the assay was determined by using synthetic constructs ofCALRwild-type andCALRmutation types 1–5 with no non-specific detection observed. Samples from 21 patients with essential thrombocythemia (ET) and 12 patients with primary myelofibrosis (PMF), together with 29 control samples from patients diagnosed with various conditions, were screened using the assay. Of these, 24 were found to have mutations inCALRexon 9, with the assay detecting 8 type 1 mutations, 12 type 2 mutations, 2 type 24 mutations, 1 type 20 mutation and 1 31-bp deletion.

Conclusions

The novel assay described has potential for application as a rapid, sensitive, high-throughput screening method in the clinical diagnostics setting.
A computational study of a novel graphene nanoribbon field effect transistor
Authors: Ghoreishi Seyed Saleh , Yousefi Reza
Published: February 2017

In this paper, using gate structure engineering and modification of channel dopant profile, we propose a new double gate graphene nanoribbon field effect transistor (DG-GNRFET) mainly to suppress the band-to-band tunneling (BTBT) of carriers. In the new device, the intrinsic part of the channel is replaced by an intrinsic-lightly doped-intrinsic [Formula: see text] configuration in a way that only the intrinsic parts are covered by the gate contact. Transport characteristics of the device are investigated theoretically using the nonequilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) formalism. Numerical simulations show that off-current, ambipolar behavior, on/off-current ratio and the switching characteristics such as intrinsic delay and power-delay product are improved. In addition, the new device demonstrates better sub-threshold swing and less drain-induced barrier lowering (DIBL).
A Novel Multi-Agent Planning System for Digital Interactive Storytelling
Authors: Goudoulakis Efstathios , El Rhalibi Abdennour , Merabti Madjid
Published: February 2017

Digital Interactive Storytelling (DIS) is a relatively novel area of computer entertainment that aims at investigating interactive applications capable of generating consistent, emergent, and rich stories. To provide new solutions for DIS, we designed and are implementing and evaluating a novel multi-agent DIS framework, DIEGESIS, which includes agents' coordination and new planning and re-planning solutions. In this article, we discuss the design and implementation of DIEGESIS, explaining in detail the mechanisms of our planning algorithms, and the story execution and agent coordination algorithms, along with a planning methods evaluation and agent planning and coordination examples. We are currently in the process of creating a large DIS scenario, involving the story of Homer's Troy, with several levels that will allow us to further evaluate and expand our system.
Diversity of Cuticular Micro- and Nanostructures on Insects: Properties, Functions, and Potential Applications
Authors: Watson Gregory S. , Watson Jolanta A. , Cribb Bronwen W.
Published: February 2017

Insects exhibit a fascinating and diverse range of micro- and nanoarchitectures on their cuticle. Beyond the spectacular beauty of such minute structures lie surfaces evolutionarily modified to act as multifunctional interfaces that must contend with a hostile, challenging environment, driving adaption so that these can then become favorable. Numerous cuticular structures have been discovered this century; and of equal importance are the properties, functions, and potential applications that have been a key focus in many recent studies. The vast range of insect structuring, from the most simplistic topographies to the most elegant and geometrically complex forms, affords us with an exhaustive library of natural templates and free technologies to borrow, replicate, and employ for a range of applications. Of particular importance are structures that imbue cuticle with antiwetting properties, self-cleaning abilities, antireflection, enhanced color, adhesion, and antimicrobial and specific cell-attachment properties.
Molecular Photofragmentation Dynamics in the Gas and Condensed Phases
Authors: Ashfold Michael N.R. , Murdock Daniel , Oliver Thomas A.A.
Published: February 2017

Exciting a molecule with an ultraviolet photon often leads to bond fission, but the final outcome of the bond cleavage is typically both molecule and phase dependent. The photodissociation of an isolated gas-phase molecule can be viewed as a closed system: Energy and momentum are conserved, and the fragmentation is irreversible. The same is not true in a solution-phase photodissociation process. Solvent interactions may dissipate some of the photoexcitation energy prior to bond fission and will dissipate any excess energy partitioned into the dissociation products. Products that have no analog in the corresponding gas-phase study may arise by, for example, geminate recombination. Here, we illustrate the extent to which dynamical insights from gas-phase studies can inform our understanding of the corresponding solution-phase photochemistry and how, in the specific case of photoinduced ring-opening reactions, solution-phase studies can in some cases reveal dynamical insights more clearly than the corresponding gas-phase study.
Developmental nicotine exposure alters potassium currents in hypoglossal motoneurons of neonatal rat
Authors: Cholanian Marina , Wealing Jesse , Levine Richard B. , Fregosi Ralph F.
Published: February 2017

We previously showed that nicotine exposure in utero and after birth via breast milk [developmental nicotine exposure (DNE)] is associated with many changes in the structure and function of hypoglossal motoneurons (XIIMNs), including a reduction in the size of the dendritic arbor and an increase in cell excitability. Interestingly, the elevated excitability was associated with a reduction in the expression of glutamate receptors on the cell body. Together, these observations are consistent with a homeostatic compensation aimed at restoring cell excitability. Compensation for increased cell excitability could also occur by changing potassium conductance, which plays a critical role in regulating resting potential, spike threshold, and repetitive spiking behavior. Here we test the hypothesis that the previously observed increase in the excitability of XIIMNs from DNE animals is associated with an increase in whole cell potassium currents. Potassium currents were measured in XIIMNs in brain stem slices derived from DNE and control rat pups ranging in age from 0 to 4 days by whole cell patch-clamp electrophysiology. All currents were measured after blockade of action potential-dependent synaptic transmission with tetrodotoxin. Compared with control cells, XIIMNs from DNE animals showed significantly larger transient and sustained potassium currents, but this was observed only under conditions of increased cell and network excitability, which we evoked by raising extracellular potassium from 3 to 9 mM. These observations suggest that the larger potassium currents in nicotine-exposed neurons are an important homeostatic compensation that prevents “runaway” excitability under stressful conditions, when neurons are receiving elevated excitatory synaptic input.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Developmental nicotine exposure is associated with increased cell excitability, which is often accompanied by compensatory changes aimed at normalizing excitability. Here we show that whole cell potassium currents are also increased in hypoglossal motoneurons from nicotine-exposed neonatal rats under conditions of increased cell and network excitability. This is consistent with a compensatory response aimed at preventing instability under conditions in which excitatory synaptic input is high and is compatible with the concept of homeostatic plasticity.
Optimization of Fixed Microphone Array in High Speed Train Noises Identification Based on Far-Field Acoustic Holography
Authors: Wang Rujia , Bei Shaoyi
Published: February 2017

Acoustical holography has been widely applied for noise sources location and sound field measurement. Performance of the microphones array directly determines the sound source recognition method. Therefore, research is very important to the performance of the microphone array, its array of applications, selection, and how to design instructive. In this paper, based on acoustic holography moving sound source identification theory, the optimization method is applied in design of the microphone array, we select the main side lobe ratio and the main lobe area as the optimization objective function and then put the optimization method use in the sound source identification based on holography, and finally we designed this paper to optimize microphone array and compare the original array of equally spaced array with optimization results; by analyzing the optimization results and objectives, we get that the array can be achieved which is optimized not only to reduce the microphone but also to change objective function results, while improving the far-field acoustic holography resolving effect. Validation experiments have showed that the optimization method is suitable for high speed trains sound source identification microphone array optimization.
Defected Ground Structure: Fundamentals, Analysis, and Applications in Modern Wireless Trends
Authors: Khandelwal Mukesh Kumar , Kanaujia Binod Kumar , Kumar Sachin
Published: February 2017

Slots or defects integrated on the ground plane of microwave planar circuits are referred to as Defected Ground Structure. DGS is adopted as an emerging technique for improving the various parameters of microwave circuits, that is, narrow bandwidth, cross-polarization, low gain, and so forth. This paper presents an introduction and evolution of DGS and how DGS is different from former technologies: PBG and EBG. A basic concept behind the DGS technology and several theoretical techniques for analysing the Defected Ground Structure are discussed. Several applications of DGS in the field of filters, planar waveguides, amplifiers, and antennas are presented.
Neutronic Analysis on Potential Accident Tolerant Fuel-Cladding Combination U3Si2-FeCrAl
Authors: Chen Shengli , Yuan Cenxi
Published: February 2017

Neutronic performance is investigated for a potential accident tolerant fuel (ATF), which consists of U3Si2fuel and FeCrAl cladding. In comparison with current UO2-Zr system, FeCrAl has a better oxidation resistance but a larger thermal neutron absorption cross section. U3Si2has a higher thermal conductivity and a higher uranium density, which can compensate the reactivity suppressed by FeCrAl. Based on neutronic investigations, a possible U3Si2-FeCrAl fuel-cladding system is taken into consideration. Fundamental properties of the suggested fuel-cladding combination are investigated in a fuel assembly. These properties include moderator and fuel temperature coefficients, control rods worth, radial power distribution (in a fuel rod), and different void reactivity coefficients. The present work proves that the new combination has less reactivity variation during its service lifetime. Although, compared with the current system, it has a little larger deviation on power distribution and a little less negative temperature coefficient and void reactivity coefficient and its control rods worth is less important, variations of these parameters are less important during the service lifetime of fuel. Hence, U3Si2-FeCrAl system is a potential ATF candidate from a neutronic view.
Self-Organized Societies: On the Sakoda Model of Social Interactions
Authors: Medina Pablo , Goles Eric , Zarama Roberto , Rica Sergio
Published: February 2017

We characterize the behavior and the social structures appearing from a model of general social interaction proposed by Sakoda. The model consists of two interacting populations in a two-dimensional periodic lattice with empty sites. It contemplates a set of simple rules that combine attitudes, ranges of interactions, and movement decisions. We analyze the evolution of the 45 different interaction rules via a Potts-like energy function which drives the system irreversibly to an equilibrium or a steady state. We discuss the robustness of the social structures, dynamical behaviors, and the existence of spatial long range order in terms of the social interactions and the equilibrium energy.
Research and Modeling of the Bidirectional Half-Bridge Current-Doubler DC/DC Converter
Authors: Huang Liang , Dong Xinchao , Xie Changjun , Quan Shuhai , Gao Yang
Published: February 2017

Due to its high step-up voltage ratio, high utilization rate, and good stability, the bidirectional half-bridge current-doubler topology is widely used in lithium battery system. This paper will further analyze the bidirectional half-bridge current-doubler topology. Taking into account the fact that the current is not equal to the two times current inductance may lead to a greater transformer magnetizing current leaving the transformer core saturation occurring. This paper will focus on the circuit modeling of steady-state analysis and small signal analysis, analyzing the influence parameters for the inductor current by steady-state model and analyzing the stability of the system by the small signal model. The PID controllers and soft start algorithm are designed. Then the influence of circuit parameters on the steady state and the effect of soft start algorithm is verified, and finally the function of the soft start algorithm is achieved by the experimental prototype.
PPARγand Its Role in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Chandra Mini , Miriyala Sumitra , Panchatcharam Manikandan
Published: February 2017

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor Gamma (PPARγ), a ligand-activated transcription factor, has a role in various cellular functions as well as glucose homeostasis, lipid metabolism, and prevention of oxidative stress. The activators of PPARγare already widely used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. The cardioprotective effect of PPARγactivation has been studied extensively over the years making them potential therapeutic targets in diseases associated with cardiovascular disorders. However, they are also associated with adverse cardiovascular events such as congestive heart failure and myocardial infarction. This review aims to discuss the role of PPARγin the various cardiovascular diseases and summarize the current knowledge on PPARγagonists from multiple clinical trials. Finally, we also review the new PPARγagonists under development as potential therapeutics with reduced or no adverse effects.
A Novel Technique to Compute the Revisit Time of Satellites and Its Application in Remote Sensing Satellite Optimization Design
Authors: Luo Xin , Wang Maocai , Dai Guangming , Chen Xiaoyu
Published: February 2017

This paper proposes a novel technique to compute the revisit time of satellites within repeat ground tracks. Different from the repeat cycle which only depends on the orbit, the revisit time is relevant to the payload of the satellite as well, such as the tilt angle and swath width. The technique is discussed using the Bezout equation and takes the gravitational second zonal harmonic into consideration. The concept of subcycles is defined in a general way and the general concept of “small” offset is replaced by a multiple of the minimum interval on equator when analyzing the revisit time of remote sensing satellites. This technique requires simple calculations with high efficiency. At last, this technique is used to design remote sensing satellites with desired revisit time and minimum tilt angle. When the side-lap, the range of altitude, and desired revisit time are determined, a lot of orbit solutions which meet the mission requirements will be obtained fast. Among all solutions, designers can quickly find out the optimal orbits. Through various case studies, the calculation technique is successfully demonstrated.
Body Composition as a Predictor of Toxicity in Patients Receiving Anthracycline and Taxane–Based Chemotherapy for Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Shachar Shlomit Strulov , Deal Allison M. , Weinberg Marc , Williams Grant R. , Nyrop Kirsten A. , Popuri Karteek , Choi Seul Ki , Muss Hyman B.
Published: February 2017

Purpose: Poor body composition metrics (BCM) are associated with inferior cancer outcomes; however, in early breast cancer (EBC), there is a paucity of evidence regarding the impact of BCM on toxicities. This study investigates associations between BCM and treatment-related toxicity in patients with EBC receiving anthracyclines and taxane–based chemotherapy.

Experimental Design: Pretreatment computerized tomographic (CT) images were evaluated for skeletal muscle area (SMA), skeletal muscle density (SMD), and fat tissue at the third lumbar vertebrae. Skeletal muscle index (SMI = SMA/height2) and skeletal muscle gauge (SMG = SMI × SMD) were also calculated. Relative risks (RR) are reported for associations between body composition measures and toxicity outcomes, after adjustment for age and body surface area (BSA).

Results: BCM were calculated for 151 patients with EBC (median age, 49 years; range, 23–75 years). Fifty patients (33%) developed grade 3/4 toxicity, which was significantly higher in those with low SMI (RR, 1.29; P = 0.002), low SMG (RR, 1.09; P = 0.01), and low lean body mass (RR, 1.48; P = 0.002). Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed the SMG measure to be the best predictor of grade 3/4 toxicity. Dividing SMG into tertiles showed toxicity rates of 46% and 22% for lowest versus highest tertile, respectively (P = 0.005). After adjusting for age and BSA, low SMG (<1,475 units) was significantly associated with hematologic (RR, 2.12; P = 0.02), gastrointestinal grade 3/4 toxicities (RR, 6.49; P = 0.02), and hospitalizations (RR, 1.91; P = 0.05).

Conclusions: Poor BCMs are significantly associated with increased treatment-related toxicities. Further studies are needed to investigate how these metrics can be used to more precisely dose chemotherapy to reduce treatment-related toxicity while maintaining efficacy. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3537–43. ©2017 AACR.
Stabilization of Notch1 by the Hsp90 Chaperone is Crucial for T-Cell Leukemogenesis
Authors: Wang Zhaojing , Hu Yufeng , Xiao Daibiao , Wang Jingchao , Liu Chuntao , Xu Yisheng , Shi Xiaomeng , Jiang Peng , Huang Liang , Li Peng , Liu Hudan , Qing Guoliang
Published: February 2017

Purpose: Notch1 deregulation is assuming a focal role in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). Despite tremendous advances in our understanding of Notch1 transcriptional programs, the mechanisms by which Notch1 stability and turnover are regulated remain obscure. The goal of the current study is to identify intracellular Notch1 (ICN1, the activated form of Notch1) binding partner(s) regulating its stability and activity.

Experimental Design: We employed immunoaffinity purification to identify ICN1-associating partner(s) and used coimmunoprecipitation to verify the endogenous protein interaction. Pharmacologic or short hairpin RNA–mediated inhibition was applied in loss-of-function assays to assess the role of tentative binding partner(s) in modulating ICN1 protein stability as well as affecting T-ALL cell expansion in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic analysis involved protein degradation and polyubiquitination assays.

Results: We identify the Hsp90 chaperone as a direct ICN1-binding partner essential for its stabilization and transcriptional activity. T-ALL cells exhibit constitutive endogenous ICN1–Hsp90 interaction and Hsp90 depletion markedly decreases ICN1 levels. The Hsp90-associated E3 ubiquitin ligase Stub1 mediates the ensuring proteasome-dependent ICN1 degradation. Administration of 17-AAG or PU-H71, two distinct Hsp90 inhibitors, depletes ICN1, inhibits T-ALL cell proliferation, and triggers dramatic apoptotic cell death. Systemic treatment with PU-H71 reduces ICN1 expression and profoundly inhibits murine T-ALL allografts as well as human T-ALL xenografts.

Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate Hsp90 blockade leads to ICN1 destabilization, providing an alternative strategy to antagonize oncogenic Notch1 signaling with Hsp90-selective inhibitors. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3834–46. ©2017 AACR.
Role of Host miRNA Hsa-miR-139-3p in HPV-16–Induced Carcinomas
Authors: Sannigrahi M.K. , Sharma Rajni , Singh Varinder , Panda Naresh K. , Rattan Vidya , Khullar Madhu
Published: February 2017

Purpose: Human papillomavirus 16 (HPV-16) is an important risk factor in head and neck cancer (HNC). Studies suggest that miRNAs play an important role in cancer; however, their role in HPV-mediated oncogenesis remains largely unknown. We investigated the role of miRNAs with HPV-16 as putative target in HPV-16–mediated cancers.

Experimental Design: Using in silico tools, we identified miRNAs with putative binding sequences on HPV-16 miRNAs. Hsa-miR-139-3p was identified as best candidate miRNA by luciferase reporter assay and was found to be significantly downregulated in HPV-16–positive tissues and cell lines. Overexpression/inhibition studies were performed to determine the role of miRNA in regulating oncogenic pathways.

Results: Hsa-miR-139-3p was found to target high-risk HPV-16 oncogenic proteins and revive major tumor suppressor proteins (p53, p21, and p16). This resulted in inhibition of cell proliferation and cell migration, cell-cycle arrest at G2–M phase and increased cell death of HPV-16–positive cells. Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data showed decreased expression of Hsa-miR-139-3p in HPV-16–positive HNC and cervical cancer cases, and its higher expression correlated with better survival outcome in both cases. Increased DNA methylation of Hsa-miR-139-3p harboring gene PDE2A at its promoter/CpG islands was observed in HPV-16–positive tissues and cell lines, which further correlated with Hsa-miR-139-3p expression, suggesting its role in regulating Hsa-miR-139-3p expression. Furthermore, we observed an increased sensitization of Hsa-miR-139-3p overexpressed HPV-16–positive cells to chemotherapeutic drugs (cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil).

Conclusions: HPV-16–mediated downregulation of Hsa-miR-139-3p may promote oncogenesis in HNC and cervical cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3884–95. ©2017 AACR.
Voltage Flickering Reduction Using Distribution STATCOM
Authors: Esmail Yahia M , Elsayed S K , Mehanna M A
Published: February 2017

Power Quality is becoming intensity concerned from both electric utilities and customers. Voltage Flicker is a major power quality problem as it has a significant impact on both the equipment and production environment. This work describes the voltage control technique of reduction of voltage flicker and clearing fault using Distribution Static Synchronous Compensator (DSTATCOM). The test system used is IEEE 9-bus distribution system clarified the optimal location of DSTATCOM by using Artificial Neural Network. A simulation was done using MATLAB/Simulink software.
Design the Balance of System of Photovoltaic for Low Load Application
Authors: Irwan Y.M. , Syafiqah Z. , Amelia A.R. , Irwanto M. , Leow W.Z. , Ibrahim S.
Published: February 2017

This paper presents an alternative method to reduce the monthly electricity bill at Centre of Excellence for Renewable Energy (CERE) which is by installing a stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) system. In the stand-alone PV system, apart from the PV module and loads, other components in the system such as battery, charge controller, inverter and protection device are categorized under Balance of System (BOS) component. In order for the loads to receive adequate energy to operate, the overall system must be sized through calculations due to find the optimum combination. This sizing will determine the amount of each component that needed in the system. The hardware is setup in front of CERE building which located at Kangar, Perlis, Malaysia. As the results from the calculation, the system required 6 units of PV module, 5 units of battery and a 0.23 kW inverter. The cable and protection devices are from the calculation. The entire system was successfully installed and was able to support the load demand.
Analysis of Five-Level DSTATCOM for Harmonic Reduction in Power System Due To Non-Linear Loads
Authors: Raveendra N. , Madhusudhan V. , Jayalaxmi A.
Published: February 2017

This paper deals with the elimination of harmonics at PCC in the presence of non-linear type of loads. Introduction of five-level DSTATCOM at PCC injects compensating currents for the minimization of harmonic content in the source currents. Non-linear loads when connected to the system draw non-linear components of current leaving undesired harmonics at the source side. DSTATCOM when connected to the system at the coupling point induces compensating currents to nullify harmonics. This paper introduces the simulation modelling of five-level DSTATCOM for harmonic elimination. Matlab/Simulink  modelling was done for the system without DSTATCOM and its harmonic contents were shown. The system without DSTATCOM is compared with the system with the presence of DSTATCOM showing their respective THD in the source current. Five level DSTATCOM was validated by considering fixed load and variable load. Simulation work was carried out for three types of systems and results were obtained using Matlab/Simulink.
Learning Vector Quantization Image for Identification Adenium
Authors: Wulanningrum Resty , Robby Bagus Fadzerie
Published: February 2017

Information and technology are two things that can not be separated and it has become a necessity for human life. Technology development at this time was not only used for intelligence purposes only, but has penetrated the world of holtikurtura. Adenium is one of the plants are much favored by ornamental plants lovers. Many of cultivation adenium who crosses that appear new varieties that have the color and shape are similar to each other. From this case, then made an application that can identify the type of adenium based on the image of that flower. Learning Vector quantization is one of the algorithm  that used for clustering. Based on test scenarios were performed, image identification applications Adenium petals produce an accuracy of 86.66% with a number of training dataset of 135 images and datasets with a test as many as 45 images max epoch 10 and learning rate between 0.01 to 0.05.
Analysis and Design of High Performance Phase Frequency Detector, Charge Pump and Loop Filter Circuits for Phase Locked Loop in Wireless Applications
Authors: Metange P.N. , Khanchandani K. B.
Published: February 2017

This paper presents the analysis and design of high performance phase frequency detector, charge pump and loop filter circuits for phase locked loop in wireless applications. The proposed phase frequency detector (PFD) consumes only 8 µW and utilises small area. Also, at 1.8V voltage supply the maximum operation frequency of the conventional PFD is 500 MHz whereas proposed PFD is 5 GHz. Hence, highly suitable for low power, high speed and low jitter applications.  The differential charge pump uses switches using NMOS and the inverter delays for up and down signals do not generate any offset due to its fully symmetric operation. This configuration doubles the range of output voltage compliance compared to single ended charge pump. Differential stage is less sensitive to the leakage current since leakage current behaves as common mode offset with the dual output stages. All the circuits are implemented using cadence 0.18 μm CMOS Process.
Generic and Robust Method for Head Pose Estimation
Authors: Hajraoui Abdellatif , Sabri Mohamed
Published: February 2017

Head pose estimation has fascinated the research community due to its application in facial motion capture, human-computer interaction and video conferencing. It is a pre-requisite to gaze tracking, face recognition, and facial expression analysis. In this paper, we present a generic and robust method for model-based global 2D head pose estimation from single RGB Image. In our approach we use of the one part the Gabor filters to conceive a robust pose descriptor to illumination and facial expression variations, and that target the pose information. Moreover, we ensure the classification of these descriptors using a SVM classifier. The approach has proved effective view the rate for the correct pose estimations that we got.
Internationalization of Indian Enterprises: Patterns, Determinants, and Policy Issues
Authors: Athukorala Prema-chandra , Veeramani C.
Published: February 2017

This paper examines the emerging patterns and economic implications of Indian overseas direct investment (ODI) from a historical perspective. The novelty of the analysis lies in its specific focus on the implications of the liberalization reforms initiated in the early 1990s and the resultant changes in the overall investment climate for the internationalisation of domestic companies. The findings cast doubts on the popular perception that the recent surge in ODI from India is an unmixed economic blessing, a sign of “coming of age” of Indian companies in global business. Given the remaining distortion in the domestic investment climate, the net national gains from these investments could be much less than what the reported absolute numbers suggest.
In Memoriam Edward Louis Keenan Jr.
Authors: Martin Russell E.
Published: February 2017

On Friday, September 25, 2015, in Memorial Church at Harvard University, a memorial service was held to celebrate the life and career of Professor Edward L. Keenan Jr., Andrew W. Mellon Professor of History, Emeritus, who passed away on March 6, 2015. The memorial service gathered together hundreds – family members, former colleagues and students, and countless friends. The eight speakers at this memorial described Edward (Ned) Keenan’s influence on them, but also his inestimable impact on the field of Russian history; and his widow provided a window into his thinking about the many roles he played over the course of a diverse and significant career that spanned four decades. The memorial service marked a sad moment in the field of Russian studies, and the words offered at it are important for understanding how the field of Russian history in the United States grew and was transformed in the last quarter of the twentieth century.
Integrating Environmental Impact Assessments into International Investment Agreements: Global Administrative Law and Transnational Cooperation
Authors: Mayeda Graham
Published: February 2017

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a legal device used by many States to protect the environment. Such assessments can bring foreign investors into conflict with host State regulators and civil society. When this occurs, an investor may seek to protect its investment against the consequences of EIA by pursuing remedies under an international investment agreement (IIA). The purpose of this article is to examine the role of IIAs in maintaining and supporting the integrity of the EIA process of the host State. It focuses on ways to integrate EIA into IIAs in order to strengthen the State’s ability to protect the environment. The article examines recent case law to identify ways in which EIA can give rise to investor-State claims under IIAs. It also discusses two theoretical models that are useful for designing reforms: the global administrative law paradigm and the cooperative transnational approach.
Seasonal Transitions and the Westerly Jet in the Holocene East Asian Summer Monsoon
Authors: Kong Wenwen , Swenson Leif M. , Chiang John C. H.
Published: February 2017

The Holocene East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) was previously characterized as a trend toward weaker monsoon intensity paced by orbital insolation. It is demonstrated here that this evolution is more accurately characterized as changes in the transition timing and duration of the EASM seasonal stages (spring, pre-mei-yu, mei-yu, midsummer), and tied to the north–south displacement of the westerlies relative to Tibet. To this end, time-slice simulations across the Holocene are employed using an atmospheric general circulation model. Self-organizing maps are used to objectively identify the transition timing and duration of the EASM seasonal stages.

Compared to the late Holocene, an earlier onset of mei-yu and an earlier transition from mei-yu to midsummer in the early to mid-Holocene are found, resulting in a shortened mei-yu and prolonged midsummer stage. These changes are accompanied by an earlier northward positioning of the westerlies relative to Tibet. Invoking changes to seasonal transitions also provides a more satisfactory explanation for two key observations of Holocene East Asian climate: the “asynchronous Holocene optimum” and changes to dust emissions.

A mechanism is proposed to explain the altered EASM seasonality in the simulated early to mid-Holocene. The insolation increase over the boreal summer reduces the pole–equator temperature gradient, leading to northward-shifted and weakened westerlies. The meridional position of the westerlies relative to the Tibetan Plateau determines the onset of mei-yu and possibly the onset of the midsummer stage. The northward shift in the westerlies triggers earlier seasonal rainfall transitions and, in particular, a shorter mei-yu and longer midsummer stage.
A Simple Device for Lens-to-Sample Distance Adjustment in Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)
Authors: Cortez Juliana , Farias Filho Benedito B. , Fontes Laiane M. , Pasquini Celio , Raimundo Ivo M. , Pimentel Maria Fernanda , de Souza Lins Borba Flávia
Published: February 2017

A simple device based on two commercial laser pointers is described to assist in the analysis of samples that present uneven surfaces and/or irregular shapes using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). The device allows for easy positioning of the sample surface at a reproducible distance from the focusing lens that conveys the laser pulse to generate the micro-plasma in a LIBS system, with reproducibility better than ±0.2 mm. In this way, fluctuations in the fluence (J cm–2) are minimized and the LIBS analytical signals can be obtained with a better precision even when samples with irregular surfaces are probed.
A Little Anthropomorphism Goes a Long Way
Authors: de Visser Ewart J. , Monfort Samuel S. , Goodyear Kimberly , Lu Li , O’Hara Martin , Lee Mary R. , Parasuraman Raja , Krueger Frank
Published: February 2017

Objective:

We investigated the effects of exogenous oxytocin on trust, compliance, and team decision making with agents varying in anthropomorphism (computer, avatar, human) and reliability (100%, 50%).

Background:

Authors of recent work have explored psychological similarities in how people trust humanlike automation compared with how they trust other humans. Exogenous administration of oxytocin, a neuropeptide associated with trust among humans, offers a unique opportunity to probe the anthropomorphism continuum of automation to infer when agents are trusted like another human or merely a machine.

Method:

Eighty-four healthy male participants collaborated with automated agents varying in anthropomorphism that provided recommendations in a pattern recognition task.

Results:

Under placebo, participants exhibited less trust and compliance with automated aids as the anthropomorphism of those aids increased. Under oxytocin, participants interacted with aids on the extremes of the anthropomorphism continuum similarly to placebos but increased their trust, compliance, and performance with the avatar, an agent on the midpoint of the anthropomorphism continuum.

Conclusion:

This study provides the first evidence that administration of exogenous oxytocin affected trust, compliance, and team decision making with automated agents. These effects provide support for the premise that oxytocin increases affinity for social stimuli in automated aids.

Application:

Designing automation to mimic basic human characteristics is sufficient to elicit behavioral trust outcomes that are driven by neurological processes typically observed in human–human interactions. Designers of automated systems should consider the task, the individual, and the level of anthropomorphism to achieve the desired outcome.