bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Report of CTNS Mutations in a Chinese Family with Infantile Cystinosis
Authors: Yang Yong-jia , Hu Yuan , Zhao Rui , He Xinyu , Zhao Liu , Tu Ming , Zhou Lijun , Guo Jihong , Wu Linqian , Zhao Tantai , Zhu Yi-min
Published: March 2015

Infantile cystinosis (IC) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by a defect in the lysosomal‐membrane transport protein, cystinosin. It serves as a prototype for lysosomal transport disorders. To date, several CTNS mutations have been identified as the cause of the prototypic disease across different ethnic populations worldwide. However, in Asia, the CTNS mutation is very rarely reported. For the Chinese population, no literature on CTNS mutation screening for IC is available to date. In this paper, by using the whole exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing, we identified two novel CTNS splicing deletions in a Chinese IC family, one at the donor site of exon 6 of CTNS (IVS6+1, del G) and the other at the acceptor site of exon 8 (IVS8‐1, del GT). These data give information for the genetic counseling of the IC that occurred in Chinese population.
Grown Low‐Temperature Microcrystalline Silicon Thin Film by VHF PECVD for Thin Films Solar Cell
Authors: Peng Shanglong , Wang Desheng , Yang Fuhua , Wang Zhanguo , Ma Fei
Published: March 2015

Hydrogenated microcrystalline silicon thin films can be used to fabricate stable thin
film solar cell, which were deposited by very high frequency plasma‐enhanced
chemical vapor deposition at low temperatures (~200°C). It has been found that the
obtained film presented excellent structural and electrical properties, such as high
growth rate and good crystallinity. With the decreasing of silane concentration, the
optical gap and the dark conductivity increased, whereas the activation energy
decreased. A reasonable explanation was presented to elucidate these phenomena. In
addition, we fabricated p‐i‐n structure solar cells using the optimum microcrystalline
silicon thin films, and preliminary efficiency of 4.6% was obtained for 1 μm thick
microcrystalline silicon thin film solar cells with open‐circuits voltage of 0.773 V and
short‐circuits current density of 12.28 mA/cm2. Future scope for performance
improvement lies mainly in further increasing the short‐circuit current.
Attention Deficit‐Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms and Daytime Voiding Symptoms in Children with Primary Enuresis: An Observational Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Desmopressin Treatment
Authors: Yang Teng-Kai , Guo Ya-Jun , Chang Hong-Chiang , Yang Hung-Ju , Huang Kuo-How
Published: March 2015

Purpose. To evaluate the effectiveness of presence of desmopressin in treating primary enuresis (PE) for children with attention deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. Materials and Methods. Children aged from 5 to 12 years with the chief complaint of PE treated with desmopressin were enrolled in pediatric urology clinics. The parent‐reported SNAP‐IV questionnaire was used to evaluate ADHD symptoms (cut‐off value: 90th percentile). Voiding symptoms were assessed by the Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System (DVSS) questionnaire. The responses to desmopressin were analyzed in children with and without ADHD symptoms. Results. The study sample comprised 68 children; 27 (39.7%) presented with ADHD symptoms and 41 (60.3%) with non‐ADHD symptoms. The children collected from a tertiary referral center may explain the high prevalence of ADHD symptoms in the present study. The total DVSS score in the ADHD symptoms group was significantly higher than in the non‐ADHD symptoms group (7.72 versus 5.65, P = 0.05). In the ADHD symptoms group, there were significantly higher score in the “pee 1‐2 times/day” and “can’t wait” subscales of DVSS and lower sleep quality based on the Pediatric Sleep Quality questionnaire, as well as significantly lower peak flow rate and voided volume. The responses to desmopressin for enuresis were comparable between children with ADHD and non‐ADHD symptoms. Conclusions. Approximately 39.7% of PE children presented with ADHD symptoms at urologic clinics. PE children with ADHD symptoms had higher risk of daytime LUTS and comparable response to desmopressin treatment for PE. To evaluate ADHD symptoms and daytime voiding symptoms is important in children with PE.
Fabric Defect Detection Using Local Homogeneity Analysis and Neural Network
Authors: Rebhi Ali , Benmhammed Issam , Abid Sabeur , Fnaiech Farhat
Published: March 2015

In the textile manufacturing industry, fabric defect detection becomes a necessary and essential step in quality control. The investment in this field is more than economical when reduction in labor cost and associated benefits are considered. Moreover, the development of a wholly automated inspection system requires efficient and robust algorithms. To overcome this problem, in this paper, we present a new fabric defect detection scheme which uses the local homogeneity and neural network. Its first step consists in computing a new homogeneity image denoted as H-image. The second step is devoted to the application of the discrete cosine transform (DCT) to the H-image and the extraction of different representative energy features of each DCT block. These energy features are used by the back-propagation neural network to judge the existence of fabric defect. Simulations on different fabric images and different defect aspects show that the proposed method achieves an average accuracy of 97.35%.
Modelling Coupled Oscillations in the Notch, Wnt, and FGF Signaling Pathways during Somitogenesis: A Comprehensive Mathematical Model
Authors: Wang Hong-yan , Huang Yan-xin , Zheng Li-hua , Bao Yong-li , Sun Lu-guo , Wu Yin , Yu Chun-lei , Song Zhen-bo , Sun Ying , Wang Guan-nan , Ma Zhi-qiang , Li Yu-xin
Published: March 2015

Somite formation in the early stage of vertebrate embryonic development is controlled by a complicated gene network named segmentation clock, which is defined by the periodic expression of genes related to the Notch, Wnt, and the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) pathways. Although in recent years some findings about crosstalk among the Notch, Wnt, and FGF pathways in somitogenesis have been reported, the investigation of their crosstalk mechanisms from a systematic point of view is still lacking. In this study, a more comprehensive mathematical model was proposed to simulate the dynamics of the Notch, Wnt, and FGF pathways in the segmentation clock. Simulations and bifurcation analyses of this model suggested that the concentration gradients of both Wnt, and FGF signals along the presomitic mesoderm (PSM) are corresponding to the whole process from start to stop of the segmentation clock. A number of highly sensitive parameters to the segmentation clock’s oscillatory pattern were identified. By further bifurcation analyses for these sensitive parameters, and several complementary mechanisms in respect of the maintenance of the stable oscillation of the segmentation clock were revealed.
Discrete Second-Order Sliding Mode Adaptive Controller Based on Characteristic Model for Servo Systems
Authors: Wang Zhihong , Wu Yifei , Chen Wei , Wang Xiang , Guo Jian , Chen Qingwei
Published: March 2015

Considering the varying inertia and load torque in high speed and high accuracy servo systems, a novel discrete second-order sliding mode adaptive controller (DSSMAC) based on characteristic model is proposed, and a command observer is also designed. Firstly, the discrete characteristic model of servo systems is established. Secondly, the recursive least square algorithm is adopted to identify time-varying parameters in characteristic model, and the observer is applied to predict the command value of next sample time. Furthermore, the stability of the closed-loop system and the convergence of the observer are analyzed. The experimental results show that the proposed method not only can adapt to varying inertia and load torque, but also has good disturbance rejection ability and robustness to uncertainties.
Influence of Whitening Gel Application Protocol on Dental Color Change
Authors: Caneppele Taciana Marco Ferraz , Torres Carlos Rocha Gomes , Huhtala Maria Filomena Rocha Lima , Bresciani Eduardo
Published: March 2015

Objectives. To evaluate the influence of different whitening protocols on the efficacy of 35% hydrogen peroxide (HP) tooth whitening and gel pH and concentration. Material and Methods. Eighty‐four enamel/dentin discs from bovine incisors were used. The baseline color was measured with a spectrophotometer. Two sessions of in‐office whitening with 35% HP were performed under different protocols: G1: 3 applications of HP (10 min each) per session; G2: 1 application of 30 min per session; G3: 1 application of 40 min per session, with no gel replenishment within session for groups 2 and 3. HP titration and pH evaluation at baseline, after 10, 30, and 40 min were also performed. The final color was measured 24 h after the 1st and 2nd whitening sessions. Data were submitted to Repeated Measures ANOVA and Tukey’s test. Results. For color evaluation, no differences were observed among groups after two sessions. HP titration showed no drop on concentration after 10, 30, or 40 min. The pH was 5.54 at baseline and 5.41 after 40 min. Conclusion. Replenishment or extended application time of in‐office whitening gel does not affect gel pH and concentration, a fact that supports the similar effectiveness of whitening observed among the tested protocols.
Kernel Temporal Differences for Neural Decoding
Authors: Bae Jihye , Sanchez Giraldo Luis G. , Pohlmeyer Eric A. , Francis Joseph T. , Sanchez Justin C. , Príncipe José C.
Published: March 2015

We study the feasibility and capability of the kernel temporal difference (KTD)(λ) algorithm for neural decoding. KTD(λ) is an online, kernel-based learning algorithm, which has been introduced to estimate value functions in reinforcement learning. This algorithm combines kernel-based representations with the temporal difference approach to learning. One of our key observations is that by using strictly positive definite kernels, algorithm’s convergence can be guaranteed for policy evaluation. The algorithm’s nonlinear functional approximation capabilities are shown in both simulations of policy evaluation and neural decoding problems (policy improvement). KTD can handle high-dimensional neural states containing spatial-temporal information at a reasonable computational complexity allowing real-time applications. When the algorithm seeks a proper mapping between a monkey’s neural states and desired positions of a computer cursor or a robot arm, in both open-loop and closed-loop experiments, it can effectively learn the neural state to action mapping. Finally, a visualization of the coadaptation process between the decoder and the subject shows the algorithm’s capabilities in reinforcement learning brain machine interfaces.
Excitation Induced Tunable Emission in Ce3+/Eu3+Codoped BiPO4Nanophosphors
Authors: Singh Sarabjot , Lakshminarayana G. , Sharma Manoj , Dao Thang Duy , Chen K. , Wada Yoshiki , Takeda T. , Nagao T.
Published: March 2015

Ce3+, Eu3+ions singly doped, and Ce3+/Eu3+codoped bismuth phosphate (BiPO4) nanophosphors were synthesized by a simple precipitation method and their structural, morphological, and photoluminescence properties were investigated. The structural and morphological analysis confirms the pure hexagonal crystal structure of the synthesized nanophosphors. From the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra various absorption bands respective to functional groups such as PO4 and phonon vibrations including the bending modes of the PO4units are identified. The Ce3+doped nanophosphors show spectrally broad luminescence in the blue (centred at 459 nm) wavelength region under the direct optical excitation of Ce3+at 417 nm. For Eu3+doped nanophosphors, five emission bands have been observed with 394 nm excitation wavelength. Among them, 595 nm has shown bright yellowish-orange emission. These results demonstrate that by appropriately tuning the excitation wavelength of these codoped nanophosphors the emission color in the visible region (blue and orange) can be flexibly controlled in a single sample without varying its chemical composition and size. The mechanism for this excitation energy dependent tunable emission is explained on the basis of nonenergy transfer (ET) occurring among Ce3+/Eu3+dopant ions.
Characterization and Utilization of Tannin Extract for the Selective Adsorption of Ni (II) Ions from Water
Authors: Meethale Kunnambath Priya , Thirumalaisamy Santhi
Published: March 2015

The current paper studies the preparation of a new tannin gel fromAcacia niloticafor water purification and waste water remediation. Design of experiments is used for optimizing the tannin gel using tannin extract (Taguchi method) with formaldehyde in the assistance of microwave (TGAN) by the help of iodine number. The feasible combinations were tested in the removal of nickel from simulated and river water. In this study, the effect of adsorbent dosage, pH, and initial metal concentration on Ni (II) biosorption on modifiedAcacia niloticatannin gel (TGAN) was investigated. Tannin gel was characterized by SEM, FTIR, XRD, and EDAX. The kinetic data was tested using pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and intraparticle diffusion model. The results suggested that the pseudo-second-order model (R2> 0.998) was the best choice among all the kinetic models describing the adsorption behavior of Ni (II) onto TGAN. Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin-Radushkevich adsorption models were used to represent the equilibrium data. The best interpretation for the experimental data was given by the Langmuir isotherm and the maximum adsorption capacity 250 mg g−1of Ni (II) was obtained at pH 5.04 at 296 K. Adsorption of Ni (II) onto TGAN is confirmed qualitatively by the use of atomic absorption spectroscopy. The BOD and COD values are considerably reduced after adsorption.
Vitis vinifera(Muscat Variety) Seed Ethanolic Extract Preserves Activity Levels of Enzymes and Histology of the Liver in Adult Male Rats with Diabetes
Authors: Giribabu Nelli , Eswar Kumar Kilari , Swapna Rekha Somesula , Muniandy Sekaran , Salleh Naguib
Published: March 2015

The effect ofV. viniferaseeds on carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes and other enzymes of the liver in diabetes is currently unknown. We therefore investigated changes in the activity levels of these enzymes followingV. viniferaseed extract administration to diabetic rats.Methods.V. viniferaseed ethanolic extract (250 and 500 mg/kg/day) or glibenclamide (600 μg/kg/day) was administered to streptozotocin-induced male diabetic rats for 28 consecutive days. At the end of treatment, liver was harvested and activity levels of various liver enzymes were determined. Levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were measured in liver homogenates and liver histopathological changes were observed.Results.V. viniferaseed ethanolic extract was able to prevent the decrease in ICDH, SDH, MDH, and G-6-PDH and the increase in LDH activity levels in liver homogenates. The seed extract also caused serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, ACP, GGT, and total bilirubin to decrease while causing total proteins to increase. Additionally, the levels of ALT, AST, and TBARS in liver homogenates were decreased. Histopathological changes in the liver were reduced.Conclusion. Near normal activity levels of various enzymes and histology of the liver followingV. viniferaseed ethanolic extract administration may be due to decrease in liver oxidative stress in diabetes.
Ghrelin Increases Beta-Catenin Level through Protein Kinase A Activation and Regulates OPG Expression in Rat Primary Osteoblasts
Authors: Mrak Emanuela , Casati Lavinia , Pagani Francesca , Rubinacci Alessandro , Zarattini Guido , Sibilia Valeria
Published: March 2015

Ghrelin, by binding growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R), promotes osteoblast proliferation but the signaling mechanism of GHS-R on these cells remains unclear. Since canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway is critically associated with bone homeostasis, we investigated its involvement in mediating ghrelin effects in osteoblasts and in osteoblast-osteoclast cross talk. Ghrelin (10−10M) significantly increasedβ-catenin levels in rat osteoblasts (rOB). This stimulatory action onβ-catenin involves a specific interaction with GHS-R1a, as it is prevented by the selective GHS-R1a antagonist, D-Lys3-GHRP-6 (10−7M). The effect of ghrelin onβ-catenin involves the phosphorylation and inactivation of GSK-3βvia protein kinase A (PKA). Inhibition of PKA activity reduces the facilitatory action of ghrelin onβ-catenin stabilization. Ghrelin treatment of rOB significantly increases the expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG), which plays an important role in the regulation of osteoclastogenesis, and this effect is blocked by D-Lys3-GHRP-6. Furthermore, ghrelin reduced RANKL/OPG ratio thus contrasting osteoclastogenesis. Accordingly, conditioned media from rOB treated with ghrelin decreased the number of multinucleated TRAcP+ cells as compared with the conditioned media from untreated-control rOB. Our data suggest new roles for ghrelin in modulating bone homeostasis via a specific interaction with GHSR-1a in osteoblasts with subsequent enhancement of bothβ-catenin levels and OPG expression.
Prolonged Ileus in an Infant Presenting with Primary Congenital Hypothyroidism
Authors: Chua Caroline , Gurnurkar Shilpa , Rodriguez-Prado Yahdira , Niklas Victoria
Published: March 2015

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is the most common endocrine disorder affecting the newborn. Universal newborn screening (NBS) has virtually eliminated the static encephalopathy and devastating neurodevelopmental syndrome known as cretinism. This report describes the presentation of an infant referred by the primary pediatrician to our hospital at 12 days of age for confirmatory testing after the NBS was consistent with CH. The infant had hypoglycemia secondary to lethargy and poor feeding and required transfer to the neonatal intensive care unit for worsening abdominal distension despite normalization of serum thyroid function tests following hormone replacement. In particular, the recalcitrant ileus and secondary bowel obstruction resulted in an additional diagnostic workup and lengthened hospital day. Our report highlights the acute gastrointestinal consequences of hypothyroidism despite evidence of effective treatment. We believe that the preclinical detection and immediate therapy for CH have lessened the prevalence of this presentation in general practice, and hence practitioners are less likely to be familiar with its natural history and management.
The Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-I Ratio as a Potential Marker of Plasma Atherogenicity
Authors: Kaneva Anastasiya M. , Potolitsyna Natalya N. , Bojko Evgeny R. , Odland Jon Ø.
Published: March 2015

Background.The apolipoprotein (apo) B/apoA-I ratio represents the balance between apoB-rich atherogenic particles and apoA-I-rich antiatherogenic particles, and this ratio is considered to be a marker of cardiovascular risk. Although many studies have demonstrated the importance of the apoB/apoA-I ratio in predicting the presence or absence of cardiovascular disease, less is known about apoB/apoA-I ratio as a marker of plasma atherogenicity.Methods.A total of 157 normolipidemic men aged 20–59 years were included in the study. The plasma levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), apoA-I, apoB, and apoE were determined after a 12 h fasting period.Results. The median of the apoB/apoA-I ratio in the studied normolipidemic subjects was 0.52, with values ranging from 0.19 to 2.60. The percentage of subjects with the apoB/apoA-I ratio exceeding 0.9 (the accepted risk value of cardiovascular disease) was 19.1%. The subjects with apoB/apoA-I>0.9 were characterized by higher TG levels and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and lower values of ratio of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) to apoB (LDL-C/apoB) and apoE levels compared with men with apoB/apoA-I<0.9.Conclusion. Despite normolipidemia, the subjects with the unfavorable apoB/apoA-I ratio had more atherogenic lipid profile.
Determinants of Pulmonary Tuberculosis among Inmates at Mangaung Maximum Correctional Facility in Bloemfontein, South Africa
Authors: Nyasulu Peter , Mogoere Serame , Umanah Teye , Setswe Geoffrey
Published: March 2015

Introduction. Correctional facilities house large number of inmates who are at high risk of developing tuberculosis (TB); however factors associated with TB among inmates at Mangaung Correctional Centre have not been studied.Study Population and Methods. We undertook a case control study and reviewed a total of 1140 medical records of inmates treated for TB between 2009 and 2010. Cases were selected randomly from the medical records of inmates who were treated. Data collected were analysed using STATA version 12.0 and determinants of TB were evaluated using multiple logistic regression analyses. Factors withP<0.05were considered significant.Results. Prevalence of TB was 8.8% and 52% of inmates with TB were aged 31–40 years; 58% of the TB cases were HIV positive and 34% of them had CD4 cell count 350 cells/mm3. Factors associated with TB among inmates were HIV coinfection (OR: 4.2; 95% CI: 2.64–7.00); previous history of TB disease (OR: 3.58; 95% CI: 2.25–5.70); and smoking (OR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.16–3.81).Conclusion. Interventions to improve TB detection such as regular screening of inmates with such factors need to be reinforced to control transmission of TB among inmates and the community.
Application of Extension Theory with Chaotic Signal Synchronization on Detecting Islanding Effect of Photovoltaic Power System
Authors: Wang Meng-Hui , Huang Mei-Ling , Liou Kang-Jian
Published: March 2015

The detection of islanding effect is a highly important topic for photovoltaic (PV) power system. The islanding effect occurs when the distributed power source is disconnected from the main supply while the power is still supplied in partial load area, which may injure the set maintenance personnel or damage the equipment. Combining chaotic synchronization and extension theory, this research is to propose a novel detection method to distinguish the occurrence of islanding effect based on nonautonomous Chua’s circuit. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, this paper applies PSIM to simulate the PV power system. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the proposed method achieves 98% on islanding effect.
Optimal Scheduling of Logistical Support for Medical Resource with Demand Information Updating
Authors: Liu Ming , Xiao Yihong
Published: March 2015

This paper presents a discrete time-space network model for a dynamic resource allocation problem following an epidemic outbreak in a region. It couples a forecasting mechanism for dynamic demand of medical resource based on an epidemic diffusion model and a multistage programming model for optimal allocation and transport of such resource. At each stage, the linear programming solves for a cost minimizing resource allocation solution subject to a time-varying demand that is forecasted by a recursion model. The rationale that the medical resource allocated in early periods will take effect in subduing the spread of epidemic and thus impact the demand in later periods has been incorporated in such recursion model. A custom genetic algorithm is adopted to solve the proposed model, and a numerical example is presented for sensitivity analysis of the parameters. We compare the proposed medical resource allocation mode with two traditional operation modes in practice and find that our model is superior to any of them in less waste of resource and less logistic cost. The results may provide some practical guidelines for a decision-maker who is in charge of medical resource allocation in an epidemics control effort.
The Inertia Weight Updating Strategies in Particle Swarm Optimisation Based on the Beta Distribution
Authors: Maca Petr , Pech Pavel
Published: March 2015

The presented paper deals with the comparison of selected random updating strategies of inertia weight in particle swarm optimisation. Six versions of particle swarm optimization were analysed on 28 benchmark functions, prepared for the Special Session on Real-Parameter Single Objective Optimisation at CEC2013. The random components of tested inertia weight were generated from Beta distribution with different values of shape parameters. The best analysed PSO version is the multiswarm PSO, which combines two strategies of updating the inertia weight. The first is driven by the temporally varying shape parameters, while the second is based on random control of shape parameters of Beta distribution.
A NovelMycobacterium cosmeticum-Like Bacterium Isolated from the Ear Swab of a Patient with Otitis Externa
Authors: Teo Jeanette W. P. , Cheng Janet W. S. , Jureen Roland , Lin Raymond T. P.
Published: March 2015

We describe the identification and characterization of a novel nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM), isolated from an ear swab of an adult male patient with chronic otitis externa. Genetically, the bacterium is most closely related toMycobacterium cosmeticum; however, growth and biochemical features indicate that it is distinctly different. Here, we highlight for the first time an unusual NTM that is a probable cause of ear infection.
A Case ofScopulariopsis brevicaulisEndocarditis with Mycotic Aneurysm in an Immunocompetent Host
Authors: Cawcutt Kelly , Baddour Larry M. , Burgess Mary
Published: March 2015

Scopulariopsisis a genus of mold that is usually associated with onychomycosis and rarely causes complicated infection in immunocompetent persons. We describe a case of an immunocompetent 65-year-old male with a history of mitral valve repair with prosthetic ring placement who developed acute left posterior knee pain. Imaging showed a left popliteal artery aneurysm and thrombus, and further evaluation with transesophageal echocardiogram demonstrated two large, mobile mitral valve vegetations. He underwent debridement and replacement of the mitral valve, followed by debridement of the left popliteal artery with peroneal artery bypass. The intraoperative cultures grewScopulariopsis brevicaulis. Due to the resistant nature of the organism, he was initially treated with combination antifungals including liposomal amphotericin B, caspofungin, and voriconazole and was continued on chronic suppression with posaconazole with no evidence of recurrence.Scopulariopsisis a rare cause of fungal endocarditis. Treatment ofScopulariopsisendocarditis is challenging and is not well understood due to its rarity.
Interface‐Induced Plasmon Nonhomogeneity in Nanostructured Metal‐Dielectric Planar Metamaterial
Authors: Kovalev A. I. , Wainstein D. L. , Rashkovskiy A. Yu. , Gago R. , Soldera F. , Endrino J. L. , Fox-Rabinovich G. S.
Published: March 2015

Transformations of the electronic structure in thin silver layers in metal‐dielectric (TiAlN/Ag) multilayer nanocomposite were investigated by a set of electron spectroscopy techniques. Localization of the electronic states in the valence band and reduction of electron concentration in the conduction band was observed. This led to decreasing metallic properties of silver in the thin films. A critical layer thickness of 23.5 nm associated with the development of quantum effects was determined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Scanning Auger electron microscopy of characteristic energy losses provided images of plasmon localization in the Ag layers. The nonuniformity of plasmon intensities distribution near the metal‐nitride interfaces was assessed experimentally.
Maternal Health Coping Strategies of Migrant Women in Norway
Authors: Viken Berit , Lyberg Anne , Severinsson Elisabeth
Published: March 2015

The aim of the study was to explore the maternal health coping strategies of migrant women in Norway. The ethnic and cultural background of the Norwegian population have become increasingly diverse. A challenge in practice is to adjust maternal health services to migrant women’s specific needs. Previous studies have revealed that migrant women have difficulty achieving safe pregnancies and childbirths. Data were obtained by means of 17 semistructured interviews with women from South America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Qualitative content analysis was employed. One overall theme is as follows:keeping original traditions while at the same time being willing to integrate into Norwegian society, and four themes emerged as follows:balancing their sense of belongingness; seeking information and support from healthcare professionals; being open to new opportunitiesandfocusing on feeling safe in the new country. The results were interpreted in the light of Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model. To provide quality care, healthcare professionals should focus on the development of migrant women’s capabilities. Adaptation of maternal health services for culturally diverse migrant women also requires a culturally sensitive approach on the part of healthcare professionals.
Hybrid Fundamental Solution Based Finite Element Method: Theory and Applications
Authors: Cao Changyong , Qin Qing-Hua
Published: March 2015

An overview on the development of hybrid fundamental solution based finite element method (HFS-FEM) and its application in engineering problems is presented in this paper. The framework and formulations of HFS-FEM for potential problem, plane elasticity, three-dimensional elasticity, thermoelasticity, anisotropic elasticity, and plane piezoelectricity are presented. In this method, two independent assumed fields (intraelement filed and auxiliary frame field) are employed. The formulations for all cases are derived from the modified variational functionals and the fundamental solutions to a given problem. Generation of elemental stiffness equations from the modified variational principle is also described. Typical numerical examples are given to demonstrate the validity and performance of the HFS-FEM. Finally, a brief summary of the approach is provided and future trends in this field are identified.
Taxiing Route Scheduling between Taxiway and Runway in Hub Airport
Authors: Jiang Yu , Xu Xinxing , Zhang Honghai , Luo Yuxiao
Published: March 2015

To guarantee the operation safety of airport, improve the efficiency of surface operation, and enhance the fairness of taxiing route scheduling, an optimizing model is established for the airport surface taxiing route scheduling. Reducing the total aircraft taxiing route length and reducing the waiting delay time are the goals of the model by controlling the initial taxiing time of aircraft and choosing the right taxiing route. The model can guarantee the continuous taxiing for all aircraft without conflicts. The runway scheduling is taken into consideration in the model to optimize the surface operation. The improved genetic algorithm is designed for simulation and validation. The simulation results show that compared with the ant colony optimization method, the improved genetic algorithm reduces the total extra taxiing distance by 47.8% and the total waiting delay time decreases by 21.5%. The optimization model and improved genetic algorithm are feasible. The optimization of taxiing route method can provide decision support for hub airports.
Motion Reliability Modeling and Evaluation for Manipulator Path Planning Task
Authors: Li Tong , Jia Qingxuan , Chen Gang , Sun Hanxu
Published: March 2015

Motion reliability as a criterion can reflect the accuracy of manipulator in completing operations. Since path planning task takes a significant role in operations of manipulator, the motion reliability evaluation of path planning task is discussed in the paper. First, a modeling method for motion reliability is proposed by taking factors related to position accuracy of manipulator into account. In the model, multidimensional integral for PDF is carried out to calculate motion reliability. Considering the complex of multidimensional integral, the approach of equivalent extreme value is introduced, with which multidimensional integral is converted into one dimensional integral for convenient calculation. Then a method based on the maximum entropy principle is proposed for model calculation. With the method, the PDF can be obtained efficiently at the state of maximum entropy. As a result, the evaluation of motion reliability can be achieved by one dimensional integral for PDF. Simulations on a particular path planning task are carried out, with which the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed methods are verified. In addition, the modeling method which takes the factors related to position accuracy into account can represent the contributions of these factors to motion reliability. And the model calculation method can achieve motion reliability evaluation with high precision and efficiency.
Genomic Landscape of Human Papillomavirus–Associated Cancers
Authors: Rusan Maria , Li Yvonne Y. , Hammerman Peter S.
Published: March 2015

Recent next-generation sequencing studies have generated a comprehensive overview of the genomic landscape of human papillomavirus (HPV)–associated cancers. This review summarizes these findings to provide insight into the tumor biology of these cancers and potential therapeutic opportunities for HPV-driven malignancies. In addition to the tumorigenic properties of the HPV oncoproteins, integration of HPV DNA into the host genome is suggested to be a driver of the neoplastic process. Integration may confer a growth and survival advantage via enhanced expression of viral oncoproteins, alteration of critical cellular genes, and changes in global promoter methylation and transcription. Alteration of cellular genes may lead to loss of function of tumor suppressor genes, enhanced oncogene expression, loss of function of DNA repair genes, or other vital cellular functions. Recurrent integrations in RAD51B, NR4A2, and TP63, leading to aberrant forms of these proteins, are observed in both HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and cervical carcinoma. Additional genomic alterations, independent of integration events, include recurrent PIK3CA mutations (and aberrations in other members of the PI3K pathway), alterations in receptor tyrosine kinases (primarily FGFR2 and FGFR3 in HPV-positive HNSCC, and ERBB2 in cervical squamous cell carcinoma), and genes in pathways related to squamous cell differentiation and immune responses. A number of the alterations identified are potentially targetable, which may lead to advances in the treatment of HPV-associated cancers. Clin Cancer Res; 21(9); 2009–19. ©2015 AACR.
SLFN11 Is a Transcriptional Target of EWS-FLI1 and a Determinant of Drug Response in Ewing Sarcoma
Authors: Tang Sai-Wen , Bilke Sven , Cao Liang , Murai Junko , Sousa Fabricio G. , Yamade Mihoko , Rajapakse Vinodh , Varma Sudhir , Helman Lee J. , Khan Javed , Meltzer Paul S. , Pommier Yves
Published: March 2015

Purpose: SLFN11 was identified as a critical determinant of response to DNA-targeted therapies by analyzing gene expression and drug sensitivity of NCI-60 and CCLE datasets. However, how SLFN11 is regulated in cancer cells remained unknown. Ewing sarcoma, which is characterized by the chimeric transcription factor EWS-FLI1, has notably high SLFN11 expression, leading us to investigate whether EWS-FLI1 drives SLFN11 expression and the role of SLFN11 in the drug response of Ewing sarcoma cells.

Experimental Design: Binding sites of EWS-FLI1 on the SLFN11 promoter were analyzed by chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing and promoter-luciferase reporter analyses. The relationship between SLFN11 and EWS-FLI1 were further examined in EWS-FLI1-knockdown or -overexpressing cells and in clinical tumor samples.

Results: EWS-FLI1 binds near the transcription start site of SLFN11 promoter and acts as a positive regulator of SLFN11 expression in Ewing sarcoma cells. EWS-FLI1–mediated SLFN11 expression is responsible for high sensitivity of Ewing sarcoma to camptothecin and combinations of PARP inhibitors with temozolomide. Importantly, Ewing sarcoma patients with higher SLFN11 expression showed better tumor-free survival rate. The correlated expression between SLFN11 and FLI1 extends to leukemia, pediatric, colon, breast, and prostate cancers. In addition, expression of other ETS members correlates with SLFN11 in NCI-60 and CCLE datasets, and molecular experiments demonstrate that ETS1 acts as a positive regulator for SLFN11 expression in breast cancer cells.

Conclusions: Our results imply the emerging relevance of SLFN11 as an ETS transcription factor response gene and for therapeutic response to topoisomerase I inhibitors and temozolomide–PARP inhibitor combinations in ETS-activated cancers. Clin Cancer Res; 21(18); 4184–93. ©2015 AACR.

See related commentary by Kovar, p. 4033
A New and Validated Clinical Prognostic Model (EPI) for Enteropathy-Associated T-cell Lymphoma
Authors: de Baaij Laura R. , Berkhof Johannes , van de Water Jolanda M.W. , Sieniawski Michal K. , Radersma Marijn , Verbeek Wieke H.M. , Visser Otto J. , Oudejans Joost J. , Meijer Chris J.L.M. , Mulder Chris J.J. , Lennard Anne L. , Cillessen Saskia A.G.M.
Published: March 2015

Purpose: Enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma (EATL) is a rare intestinal non–Hodgkin lymphoma with a poor, though variable prognosis. The International Prognostic Index (IPI) and the prognostic index for peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PIT) have limited predictive value for outcome of EATL. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a prognostic model for EATL, which can identify high-risk patients who need more aggressive therapy.

Experimental Design: This retrospective multicenter study was based on 92 patients and included 45 patients diagnosed with EATL between 1999 and 2009 from the Netherlands and 47 patients from England and Scotland, diagnosed with EATL between 1994 and 1998. A new EATL prognostic index (EPI) was constructed using the RPART (recursive partitioning and regression trees) procedure. Validation was performed applying the bootstrap method.

Results: Three risk groups were distinguished (P < 0.0001): a high-risk group, characterized by the presence of B-symptoms [median overall survival (OS) of 2 months]; an intermediate-risk group, comprising patients without B-symptoms and an IPI score ≥ 2 (7 months); and a low-risk group, representing patients without B-symptoms and an IPI score of 0 to 1 (34 months). Internal validation showed stability of statistical significance and prognostic discrimination. In contrast with the IPI and PIT, the EPI better classified patients in risk groups according to their clinical outcome.

Conclusions: Our new, validated, prognostic model EPI accurately predicts survival outcome in EATL and may be used for patient selection for new therapeutic strategies and evaluation of clinical trials. Clin Cancer Res; 21(13); 3013–9. ©2015 AACR.
PLEKHA5: A Key to Unlock the Blood–Brain Barrier?
Authors: Eisele Sylvia C. , Gill Corey M. , Shankar Ganesh M. , Brastianos Priscilla K.
Published: March 2015

Brain metastases represent a devastating complication of melanoma. Our understanding of the mechanisms driving metastasis to the brain is limited. PLEKHA5 functions as a regulator of brain metastasis in melanoma, and further investigation is warranted to explore the use of PLEKHA5 as a potential therapeutic target. Clin Cancer Res; 21(9); 1978–80. ©2015 AACR.

See related article by Jilaveanu et al., p. 2138
TBCRC 019: A Phase II Trial of Nanoparticle Albumin-Bound Paclitaxel with or without the Anti-Death Receptor 5 Monoclonal Antibody Tigatuzumab in Patients with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Forero-Torres Andres , Varley Katherine E. , Abramson Vandana G. , Li Yufeng , Vaklavas Christos , Lin Nancy U. , Liu Minetta C. , Rugo Hope S. , Nanda Rita , Storniolo Anna M. , Traina Tiffany A. , Patil Sujata , Van Poznak Catherine H. , Nangia Julie R. , Irvin William J. , Krontiras Helen , De Los Santos Jennifer F. , Haluska Paul , Grizzle William , Myers Richard M. , Wolff Antonio C.
Published: March 2015

Purpose: Tigatuzumab (TIG), an agonistic anti-DR5 antibody, triggers apoptosis in DR5+ human tumor cells without crosslinking. TIG has strong in vitro/in vivo activity against basal-like breast cancer cells enhanced by chemotherapy agents. This study evaluates activity of TIG and chemotherapy in patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

Experimental Design: Randomized 2:1 phase II trial of albumin-bound paclitaxel (nab-PAC) ± TIG in patients with TNBC stratified by prior chemotherapy. Patients received nab-PAC weekly × 3 ± TIG every other week, every 28 days. Primary objective was within-arm objective response rate (ORR). Secondary objectives were safety, progression-free survival (PFS), clinical benefit, and TIG immunogenicity. Metastatic research biopsies were required.

Results: Among 64 patients (60 treated; TIG/nab-PAC n = 39 and nab-PAC n = 21), there were 3 complete remissions (CR), 8 partial remissions (PR; 1 almost CR), 11 stable diseases (SD), and 17 progressive diseases (PD) in the TIG/nab-PAC arm (ORR, 28%), and no CRs, 8 PRs, 4 SDs, and 9 PDs in the nab-PAC arm (ORR, 38%). There was a numerical increase in CRs and several patients had prolonged PFS (1,025+, 781, 672, 460, 334) in the TIG/nab-PAC arm. Grade 3 toxicities were 28% and 29%, respectively, with no grade 4–5. Exploratory analysis suggests an association of ROCK1 gene pathway activation with efficacy in the TIG/nab-PAC arm.

Conclusions: ORR and PFS were similar in both. Preclinical activity of TIG in basal-like breast cancer and prolonged PFS in few patients in the combination arm support further investigation of anti-DR5 agents. ROCK pathway activation merits further evaluation. Clin Cancer Res; 21(12); 2722–9. ©2015 AACR.

See related article by Paoletti et al., p. 2771
The Use of Transcriptional Profiling to Improve Personalized Diagnosis and Management of Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma (CTCL)
Authors: Litvinov Ivan V. , Netchiporouk Elena , Cordeiro Brendan , Doré Marc-André , Moreau Linda , Pehr Kevin , Gilbert Martin , Zhou Youwen , Sasseville Denis , Kupper Thomas S.
Published: March 2015

Purpose: Although many patients with mycosis fungoides presenting with stage I disease enjoy an indolent disease course and normal life expectancy, about 15% to 20% of them progress to higher stages and most ultimately succumb to their disease. Currently, it is not possible to predict which patients will progress and which patients will have a stable disease. Previously, we conducted microarray analyses with RT-PCR validation of gene expression in biopsy specimens from 60 patients with stage I–IV cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), identified three distinct clusters based upon transcription profile, and correlated our molecular findings with 6 years of clinical follow-up.

Experimental Design: We test by RT-PCR within our prediction model the expression of about 240 genes that were previously reported to play an important role in CTCL carcinogenesis. We further extend the clinical follow-up of our patients to 11 years. We compare the expression of selected genes between mycosis fungoides/Sézary syndrome and benign inflammatory dermatoses that often mimic this cancer.

Results: Our findings demonstrate that 52 of the about 240 genes can be classified into cluster 1–3 expression patterns and such expression is consistent with their suggested biologic roles. Moreover, we determined that 17 genes (CCL18, CCL26, FYB, T3JAM, MMP12, LEF1, LCK, ITK, GNLY, IL2RA, IL26, IL22, CCR4, GTSF1, SYCP1, STAT5A, and TOX) are able to both identify patients who are at risk of progression and also distinguish mycosis fungoides/Sézary syndrome from benign mimickers.

Conclusions: This study, combined with other gene expression analyses, prepares the foundation for the development of personalized molecular approach toward diagnosis and treatment of CTCL. Clin Cancer Res; 21(12); 2820–9. ©2015 AACR.
Rho Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factor 5 Increases Lung Cancer Cell Tumorigenesis via MMP-2 and Cyclin D1 Upregulation
Authors: He Ping , Wu Wei , Yang Kang , Tan Deli , Tang Meng , Liu Hongxiang , Wu Tao , Zhang Shixin , Wang Haidong
Published: March 2015

We sought to elucidate the role of Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor 5 (ARHGEF5) in tumorigenesis of lung adenocarcinoma cells. ARHGEF5 protein levels were assessed in 91 human lung adenocarcinoma specimens, and A549 and NCI-H1650 cells, by IHC and Western blotting. In addition, ARHGEF5 mRNA expression was evaluated by quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR. Furthermore, ARHGEF5 long and short isoform coexpression was detected by immunofluorescence. Finally, flow cytometry; CCK8 and wound-healing assays; cell invasion, migration and adhesion; and xenografts were used to evaluate the biologic significance of ARHGEF5. ARHGEF5 was significantly increased in lung adenocarcinoma tissues and cell lines. Interestingly, ARHGEF5 levels were significantly associated with tumor grade and pathologic stage, but not age, gender, T stage, or lymph node metastasis status. ARHGEF5 knockdown by RNAi resulted in dramatically reduced proliferation, adhesion, invasion, and migratory capability of A549 and NCI-H1650 cells. Likewise, protein levels of p-Src, p-Akt, and NF-κB were significantly decreased after ARHGEF5 knockdown. In parallel, increased S-phase population and MMP-2/cyclin D1 expression were observed in the cancer cells, which were not apoptotic. In addition, ARHGEF5 knockdown A549 and NCI-H1650 cells injected s.c. and i.v. into nude mice exhibited decreased xenograft volume and overtly reduced metastasis. Conversely, ARHGEF5 overexpression in A549 and NCI-H1650 cells increased their tumorigenicity in vitro. ARHGEF5 acts as a proto-oncogene in human lung adenocarcinoma cell tumorigenesis. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(7); 1671–9. ©2015 AACR.
Cell Purification: A New Challenge for Biobanks
Authors: Almeida Maria , García-Montero Andres C. , Orfao Alberto
Published: March 2015

Performing ‘-omics' analyses on heterogeneous biological tissue samples, such as blood or bone marrow, can lead to biased or even erroneous results, particularly when the targeted cells and/or molecules are present at relatively low percentages/amounts. In such cases, whole sample analysis will most probably dilute and mask the features of the cell and/or molecules of interest, and this will negatively impact the results and their interpretation. Therefore, frequently it is critically important to have well-characterized and high-quality purified cell populations for the reliable detection of subtle variations in their specific features, such as gene expression profile, protein expression pattern and metabolic status. Biobanks are technological platforms which aim to provide researchers access to a large number of high-quality biological samples and their associated data, particularly to support high-quality scientific and clinical research projects, and such projects will benefit enormously by having access to high-quality purified cell populations or their biological components (e.g. DNA, RNA, proteins). Therefore, a clear opportunity exists for preparative cell sorting techniques in biobanks. Although multiple different cell purification approaches exist or are under development (e.g. cell purification techniques based on cell adherence, density and/or cell size properties, methods based on antibody binding as well as new lab-on-a-chip purification techniques), the choice for a specific technology depends on multiple variables, including cell recovery, purity and yield, among others. In addition, most cell purification approaches are not well suited for high-throughput (HT) purification of multiple cell populations coexisting in a sample. Here we review the most (currently) used cell sorting methods that may be applied for sample preparation in biobanks. For the different approaches, technical considerations about their advantages and limitations are highlighted, and the requirements to be met by a HT cell sorting technology to be used in biobanks are also discussed.