bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broadband Absorption Enhancement in μc-Si:H Thin-Film Solar Cells Based on Silver Nanoparticle Arrays
Authors: Yang Shie , Liu Ping , Ding Dong , Guo Qiaoneng , Chen Yongsheng
Published: December 2016

The thin-film solar cell structure with a broadband absorption enhancement is reported. We designed spherical silver (Ag) nanoparticle arrays on or embedded partially into indium tin oxide (ITO) layer of the hydrogenated microcrystalline silicon ([Formula: see text]c-Si:H) thin-film solar cells. The geometrical parameters, such as nanoparticle radius ([Formula: see text], array period ([Formula: see text] and ITO layer thickness ([Formula: see text] are optimized by using the finite element method (FEM). The numerical results show that the key parameter that influences the integrated absorption is period/radius ratio ([Formula: see text]/[Formula: see text] for Ag nanoparticle arrays. Embedding nanoparticle arrays partially into ITO layer with the appropriate thickness can improve broadband light-trapping. The optimized structure shows 50.1% enhancement in the integrated absorption compared to the reference cell when [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm. Furthermore, physical mechanisms of absorption enhancement in different wavelength range are discussed according to the electrical field amplitude distributions in the solar cells.
Pd Nanoparticles Self-Assembled on Fluorine-Modified MWCNTs as Electro-Catalysts for Methanol Electro-Oxidation
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Feng , Dong Peng , Zhang Ying-Jie , Yang Xi-Kun , Xia Shu-Biao , Jin Zhen-Hua , Xu Ming-Li
Published: December 2016

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were modified by hydrogen fluoride (HF) in a simple method. With the help of fluorine, Pd nanoparticles (3.9[Formula: see text]nm) synthesized by a one-step photochemical reduction were uniformly self-assembled on the active sites of functionalized MWCNTs and a new catalyst (Pd/HF-MWCNT) was obtained. UV–Vis absorption spectra, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used. The results demonstrated that –F groups were introduced onto the surface of MWCNTs and C–F chemical bonds were formed. In addition, the electronic structure of Pd was changed. Pd–F coordination bond maybe formed between F atom and Pd atom. Cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry tests indicated that electro-catalytic activity of Pd/HF-MWCNTs catalyst for methanol in alkaline medium was about 1.6 times higher than that of the commercial Pd/C (JM) catalyst at the same condition. This new functionalized method has the advantages of simple step and safe operation. It is very significant to improve the wide application of MWCNTs and the commercial development of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs).
Constrained bilinear control problem: Application to a cancer chemotherapy model
Authors: Zerrik El Hassan , El Boukhari Nihale
Published: December 2016

The aim of this paper is to investigate the optimal control problem for finite-dimensional bilinear systems and its application to a chemotherapy model. We characterize an optimal control that minimizes a quadratic cost functional in two cases of constrained admissible controls, then we give sufficient conditions for the uniqueness of such a control, and we derive useful algorithms for the computation of the optimal control. The established results are applied to a cancer chemotherapy bilinear model in order to simulate the optimal treatment protocol using two different approaches: one based on a limited instant toxicity, and the other on a limited cumulative toxicity along the therapy session.
Mathematical modeling and optimal control problems in brain tumor targeted drug delivery strategies
Authors: Belmiloudi Aziz
Published: December 2016

In this paper, we present a mathematical model that describes tumor-normal cells interaction dynamics focusing on role of drugs in treatment of brain tumors. The goal is to predict distribution and necessary quantity of drugs delivered in drug-therapy by using optimal control framework. The model describes interactions of tumor and normal cells using a system of reactions–diffusion equations involving the drug concentration, tumor cells and normal tissues. The control estimates simultaneously blood perfusion rate, reabsorption rate of drug and drug dosage administered, which affect the effects of brain tumor chemotherapy. First, we develop mathematical framework which models the competition between tumor and normal cells under chemotherapy constraints. Then, existence, uniqueness and regularity of solution of state equations are proved as well as stability results. Afterwards, optimal control problems are formulated in order to minimize the drug delivery and tumor cell burden in different situations. We show existence and uniqueness of optimal solution, and we derive necessary conditions for optimality. Finally, to solve numerically optimal control and optimization problems, we propose and investigate an adjoint multiple-relaxation-time lattice Boltzmann method for a general nonlinear coupled anisotropic convection–diffusion system (which includes the developed model for brain tumor targeted drug delivery system).
Research on the dynamic management of cloud simulation derived data
Authors: Che Zongshao , Zhao Chun , Laili Yuanjun , Zhang Lin
Published: December 2016

Cloud simulation derived data is defined as the data related to service version, characteristics, relationships, runtime environments and cross-domain communication during service execution in cloud simulation environment, collectively. It is of great value and significance in cloud simulation for service description, service composition and resource management. The types of derived data are abundant and the amount of it is huge. Existing studies on cloud simulation usually assume all of the derived data required for a specific task is well organized and available anytime, which is of course impossible. Derived data needs to be expressed and managed in terms of knowledge to make sure the smooth execution of cloud simulation platform. Therefore, this paper presents a derived data management method in cloud simulation platform to enable derived data collection and dynamic knowledge storage. The prototype system of the proposed method are established and a virtual prototype of double girder crane is taken as an example to verify the effectiveness of the method.
An Experimental Study on the Thermal Performance Evaluation of SCW Ground Heat Exchanger
Authors: Chang Keun Sun , Kim Min Jun , Kim Young Jae
Published: December 2016

In recent years, application of the standing column well (SCW) ground heat exchanger (GHX) has been noticeably increased as a heat transfer mechanism of ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems with its high heat capacity and efficiency. Determination of the ground thermal properties is an important task for sizing and estimating cost of the GHX. In this study, an in situ thermal response test (TRT) is applied to the thermal performance evaluation of SCW. Two SCWs with different design configurations are installed in sequence to evaluate their effects on the thermal performance of SCW using a single borehole. A line source method is used to derive the effective thermal conductivity and borehole thermal resistance. Effects of operating parameters are also investigated including bleed, heat injection rate, flow rate and filler height. Results show that the effective thermal conductivity of top drawn SCW (Type A) is 11.7% higher than that of bottom drawn SCW (Type B) and of operating parameters tested bleed is the most significant one for the improvement of the thermal performance (40.4% enhanced in thermal conductivity with 10.9% bleed).
Plasmonic Responses in Metal Nanoslit Array Fabricated by Interference Lithography
Authors: Zhang Nan , Wu Lin , Bai Ping , Teng Jinghua , Knoll Wolfgang , Zhou Xiaodong
Published: December 2016

Gap tunable gold nanoslit arrays were fabricated by interference lithography and investigated numerically to understand the impact of fabrication errors on plasmonic responses. To fabricate the gap tunable gold nanoslit arrays, photoresist nanoslit arrays on quartz substrate were first formed by laser interference, and then converted to gold nanoslit array on glass substrate by perpendicular gold deposition and photoresist lift-off. Because the photoresist nanoslit has a sinusoidal profile due to the laser light interference lithography, different photoresist development time from 20[Formula: see text]s to 30[Formula: see text]s can tune the photoresist width from 100[Formula: see text]nm to 70[Formula: see text]nm, thus allows the gap-width-tuned metallic nanoslits to be attained accordingly. The optical properties of the fabricated gold nanoslit arrays were investigated experimentally and theoretically by studying the absorption in the transmission spectra. Within the wavelength range of 400[Formula: see text]nm to 860[Formula: see text]nm, the nanoslit in air has two prominent absorption peaks at 500[Formula: see text]nm and 670[Formula: see text]nm. It is found that a simulation model with gold nanoslit fabrication errors such as size variation, chromium adhesive layer and gold residue in nanoslit gaps considered can better match the simulation peaks with the experiments. The simulation of the gold nanoslit array in air indicates that the 500[Formula: see text]nm peak includes the interband transition and surface plasmon polariton (SPP) at air-gold surface, and the other peak at 670[Formula: see text]nm is SPP at glass side. The two SPP peaks are both sensitive to the refractive index of surrounding solution, with sensitivities of the two peaks demonstrated to be 267[Formula: see text]nm/RIU and 111[Formula: see text]nm/RIU in experiments, and 462[Formula: see text]nm/RIU and 180[Formula: see text]nm/RIU by simulation. The lower sensitivity detected by experiments might be due to some air bubbles in the flow cell reducing the effective refractive index around the nanoslit. The shorter wavelength SPP mode is 2.4 (in experiments) or 2.6 times (by simulation) more sensitive than the long wavelength SPP mode because its plasmonic field concentrates on water-gold surface. The plasmonic responses we simulated with fabrication errors explained our experimental investigations, and deepened our understanding on the application of the gold nanoslit array for refractive index-based biosensing.
Vertical distribution of helium and
40
Ar/
36
Ar in porewaters of the Eastern Paris Basin (Bure/Haute-Marne): constraints on transport processes through the sedimentary sequence
Authors: Jean-Baptiste P. , Lavielle B. , Fourre E. , Smith T. , Pagel M.
Published: December 2016

As part of its ongoing project on repositories for high-activity, long-lived radioactive waste, a 2000 m deep borehole was drilled by the French Nuclear Waste Agency (ANDRA) in the layered structure of alternating aquifers and aquitards of the Eastern Paris Basin. Among the information retrieved from this borehole, the vertical distribution of chloride in porewaters showed that, in addition to vertical diffusion, lateral advection in the aquifers plays a major part in transporting chlorine away from the study area. Helium concentrations were also measured in porewaters along the borehole. Because the helium input function is different from that of chlorine, it represents an excellent alternative tracer to further constrain transport characteristics. We applied an advection–diffusion model to the helium profiles with the appropriate source term for
4
He based on U–Th measured concentrations of uranium and thorium.
40
Ar/
36
Ar data, which were available along the whole sequence, were also simulated. The modelled and measured
4
He profiles were in good agreement, indicating that the transport parameters used for the chlorine simulations were robust.
40
Ar/
36
Ar simulations also gave coherent results and confirmed that most of the radiogenic
40
Ar remained trapped in the rocks (primarily in clays and feldspars).
Creating user interfaces with electrical muscle stimulation
Authors: Schneegass Stefan , Schmidt Albrecht , Pfeiffer Max
Published: December 2016

Envisioning, designing, and implementing the user interface require a comprehensive understanding of interaction technologies. In this forum we scout trends and discuss new technologies with the potential to influence interaction design.
--- Albrecht Schmidt, Editor
The map is the territory
Authors: Fore David
Published: December 2016

The
Interactions
website (interactions.acm.org) hosts a stable of bloggers who share insights and observations on HCI, often challenging current practices. Each issue we'll publish selected posts from some of the leading voices in the field.
Muscle-specific microRNA-206 targets multiple components in dystrophic skeletal muscle representing beneficial adaptations
Authors: Amirouche Adel , Jahnke Vanessa E. , Lunde John A. , Koulmann Nathalie , Freyssenet Damien G. , Jasmin Bernard J.
Published: December 2016

Over the last several years, converging lines of evidence have indicated that miR-206 plays a pivotal role in promoting muscle differentiation and regeneration, thereby potentially impacting positively on the progression of neuromuscular disorders, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Despite several studies showing the regulatory function of miR-206 on target mRNAs in skeletal muscle cells, the effects of overexpression of miR-206 in dystrophic muscles remain to be established. Here, we found that miR-206 overexpression in mdx mouse muscles simultaneously targets multiple mRNAs and proteins implicated in satellite cell differentiation, muscle regeneration, and at the neuromuscular junction. Overexpression of miR-206 also increased the levels of several muscle-specific mRNAs/proteins, while enhancing utrophin A expression at the sarcolemma. Finally, we also observed that the increased expression of miR-206 in dystrophin-deficient mouse muscle decreased the production of proinflammatory cytokines and infiltration of macrophages. Taken together, our results show that miR-206 acts as a pleiotropic regulator that targets multiple key mRNAs and proteins expected to provide beneficial adaptations in dystrophic muscle, thus highlighting its therapeutic potential for DMD.
Canstatin stimulates migration of rat cardiac fibroblasts via secretion of matrix metalloproteinase-2
Authors: Okada Muneyoshi , Murata Naoki , Yamawaki Hideyuki
Published: December 2016

Type IV collagen, a nonfibrillar type, is ubiquitously expressed in the basement membrane around cardiomyocytes. Canstatin, a cleaved product of α2 chain of type IV collagen, is an antiangiogenic factor. Because it has not been clarified whether canstatin exerts other biological activities in heart, we investigated the effects of canstatin on adult rat cardiac fibroblasts. Cell migration was determined by Boyden chamber assay. Western blotting was performed to detect secretion of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 and phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Localization of MMP-2 was detected by immunofluorescence staining. Canstatin (250 ng/ml) significantly increased migration, secretion, and activity of MMP-2 but not MMP-9. CTTHWGFTLC peptide, an MMP inhibitor and small interfering RNA (siRNA) against MMP-2 suppressed the canstatin-induced (250 ng/ml, 24 h) migration. Canstatin (250 ng/ml, 30 min) significantly increased phosphorylation of ERK. PD98059, a MEK inhibitor, significantly suppressed the canstatin-induced (250 ng/ml, 24 h) migration but not secretion of MMP-2. An increase in MMP-2 expression was observed in cytoplasm of the canstatin-treated (250 ng/ml) cardiac fibroblasts (within 30 min). Canstatin induced actin stress fiber formation, which was inhibited by Y-27632, a Rho-associated kinase inhibitor. Y-27632 also suppressed the canstatin-induced (250 ng/ml, 24 h) MMP-2 secretion. Canstatin (250 ng/ml, 30 min) failed to induce ERK phosphorylation in MMP-2 siRNA-treated cardiac fibroblasts. In conclusion, this study revealed a novel function of canstatin for inducing cell migration of adult rat cardiac fibroblasts at least in part by ERK phosphorylation through MMP-2 secretion, possibly via actin cytoskeletal change.
Molecular mechanisms underlying active desalination and low water permeability in the esophagus of eels acclimated to seawater
Authors: Takei Yoshio , Wong Marty K.-S. , Pipil Supriya , Ozaki Haruka , Suzuki Yutaka , Iwasaki Wataru , Kusakabe Makoto
Published: December 2016

Marine teleosts can absorb imbibed seawater (SW) to maintain water balance, with esophageal desalination playing an essential role. NaCl absorption from luminal SW was enhanced 10-fold in the esophagus of SW-acclimated eels, and removal of Na+or Cl−from luminal SW abolished the facilitated absorption, indicating coupled transport. Mucosal/serosal application of various blockers for Na+/Cl−transporters profoundly decreased the absorption. Among the transporter genes expressed in eel esophagus detected by RNA-seq, dimethyl amiloride-sensitive Na+/H+exchanger (NHE3) and 4,4′-diisothiocyano-2,2′-disulfonic acid-sensitive Cl−/[Formula: see text] exchanger (AE) coupled by the scaffolding protein on the apical membrane of epithelial cells, and ouabain-sensitive Na+-K+-ATPases (NKA1α1c and NKA3α) and diphenylamine-2-carboxylic acid-sensitive Cl−channel (CLCN2) on the basolateral membrane, may be responsible for enhanced transcellular NaCl transport because of their profound upregulation after SW acclimation. Upregulated carbonic anhydrase 2a (CA2a) supplies H+and [Formula: see text] for activation of the coupled NHE and AE. Apical hydrochlorothiazide-sensitive Na+-Cl−cotransporters and basolateral Na+-[Formula: see text] cotransporter (NBCe1) and AE1 are other possible candidates. Concerning the low water permeability that is typically seen in marine teleost esophagus, downregulated aquaporin genes ( aqp1a and aqp3) and upregulated claudin gene ( cldn15a) are candidates for transcellular/paracellular route. In situ hybridization showed that these upregulated transporters and tight-junction protein genes were expressed in the absorptive columnar epithelial cells of eel esophagus. These results allow us to provide a full picture of the molecular mechanism of active desalination and low water permeability that are characteristic to marine teleost esophagus and gain deeper insights into the role of gastrointestinal tracts in SW acclimation.
A circuit for saccadic suppression in the primate brain
Authors: Berman Rebecca A. , Cavanaugh James , McAlonan Kerry , Wurtz Robert H.
Published: December 2016

Saccades should cause us to see a blur as the eyes sweep across a visual scene. Specific brain mechanisms prevent this by producing suppression during saccades. Neuronal correlates of such suppression were first established in the visual superficial layers of the superior colliculus (SC) and subsequently have been observed in cortical visual areas, including the middle temporal visual area (MT). In this study, we investigated suppression in a recently identified circuit linking visual SC (SCs) to MT through the inferior pulvinar (PI). We examined responses to visual stimuli presented just before saccades to reveal a neuronal correlate of suppression driven by a copy of the saccade command, referred to as a corollary discharge. We found that visual responses were similarly suppressed in SCs, PI, and MT. Within each region, suppression of visual responses occurred with saccades into both visual hemifields, but only in the contralateral hemifield did this suppression consistently begin before the saccade (~100 ms). The consistency of the signal along the circuit led us to hypothesize that the suppression in MT was influenced by input from the SC. We tested this hypothesis in one monkey by inactivating neurons within the SC and found evidence that suppression in MT depends on corollary discharge signals from motor SC (SCi). Combining these results with recent findings in rodents, we propose a complete circuit originating with corollary discharge signals in SCi that produces suppression in visual SCs, PI, and ultimately, MT cortex.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY A fundamental puzzle in visual neuroscience is that we frequently make rapid eye movements (saccades) but seldom perceive the visual blur accompanying each movement. We investigated neuronal correlates of this saccadic suppression by recording from and perturbing a recently identified circuit from brainstem to cortex. We found suppression at each stage, with evidence that it was driven by an internally generated signal. We conclude that this circuit contributes to neuronal suppression of visual signals during eye movements.
Single-neuron responses to intraoral delivery of odor solutions in primary olfactory and gustatory cortex
Authors: Maier Joost X.
Published: December 2016

Smell plays a major role in our perception of food. Odorants released inside the mouth during consumption are combined with taste and texture qualities of a food to guide flavor preference learning and food choice behavior. Here, we built on recent physiological findings that implicated primary sensory cortex in multisensory flavor processing. Specifically, we used extracellular recordings in awake rats to characterize responses of single neurons in primary olfactory (OC) and gustatory cortex (GC) to intraoral delivery of odor solutions and compare odor responses to taste and plain water responses. The data reveal responses to olfactory, oral somatosensory, and gustatory qualities of intraoral stimuli in both OC and GC. Moreover, modality-specific responses overlap in time, indicating temporal convergence of multisensory, flavor-related inputs. The results extend previous work suggesting a role for primary OC in mediating influences of taste on smell that characterize flavor perception and point to an integral role for GC in olfactory processing.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Food perception is inherently multisensory, taking into account taste, smell, and texture qualities. However, the neural mechanisms underlying flavor perception remain unknown. Recording neural activity directly from the rat brain while animals consume multisensory flavor stimuli, we demonstrate that information about odor, taste, and mouthfeel of food converges on primary taste and smell cortex. The results suggest that processing of naturalistic, multisensory information involves an interacting network of primary sensory areas.
Flag Leaf Photosynthesis and Stomatal Function of Grain Sorghum as Influenced by Changing Photosynthetic Photon Flux Densities
Authors: Arnold Bruns H.
Published: December 2016

Photosynthesis (A) and stomatal function research in grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is limited compared to other crops. Flag leaves from three plants of two hybrids, grown with added N-fertilizer of 0.0, 112, and 224 kg ha−1 near Elizabeth, MS, were measured for A and stomatal functions at growth stages GS6 and GS7. A Li-Cor LI-6400XT set at 355 µmol [CO2], a flow rate of 500 µmol s−1, and a 6400-02 LED light source were used to collect data. Light levels were initially set at 2200 µmol m−2 s−1 indicated photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD), A was allowed to stabilize, data was recorded, indicated PPFD level was reduced by 200 µmol m−2 s−1, and the process was repeated to a level of 200 µmol m−2 s−1. At GS6 all data were unaffected by N-fertility, hybrids, or years. Data on Ci at GS6 indicated A declines faster with decreasing PPFD than gs. Intrinsic water use efficiency (IWUE) data supports prior research showing stomata function more to regulate water loss and only marginally limit A. Nitrogen fertility was null on A and stomatal functions and minimal on yield; thus no attempt was made to correlate yield with these data.
Bilateral Moyamoya Disease in a 2-Year-Old Pakistani Male Treated with Bilateral Encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis: A Positive Outcome
Authors: Magsi Shahvaiz , Khoja Adeel , Rameez Mansoor Ali Merchant , Khan Ariba , Ishaque Noman
Published: December 2016

Background. We present a rare case of bilateral moyamoya disease presenting as multiple strokes and neurological deficits, treated with the neurosurgical procedure, encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis (EDAS), in a 2-year-old male Pakistani minor. A positive outcome was achieved and the patient recovered fully. Case Summary. Our patient presented with a history of seizures and multiple episodes of hemiparesis (on and off weakness) at the age of 2 years. He had a delayed speech development and could not speak more than a few words. He had a slight slurring of speech too. He was diagnosed with bilateral moyamoya disease on Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA). Bilateral EDAS was done in the same year, after which his symptoms improved and patient had moderate functional recovery. Conclusion. A rare disease, moyamoya has been left unexplored in Pakistan; physicians and surgeons when dealing with cases in the pediatric population presenting with symptoms of stroke, signs of generalized weakness, and seizures should consider moyamoya disease as a possibility. Furthermore, this case demonstrates the effectiveness of EDAS procedure for the treatment of moyamoya disease.
Complete Resolution of Tumor Burden of Primary Cardiac Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Authors: Mauricio Rina , Mgbako Ofole , Buntaine Adam , Moreira Andre , Jung Albert
Published: December 2016

Primary cardiac tumors are a rare set of benign and malignant neoplasms found in the heart or pericardium. We describe a patient presenting with nonspecific symptoms and ultimately diagnosed with primary cardiac non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (PCL). Our patient had extensive tumor in the right ventricle, which extended into the right atrium and right ventricular outflow tract. The tumor also encased the right coronary artery, which manifested as ischemic changes on EKG and cardiac MRI. The patient was treated with chemotherapy and achieved complete remission, with dramatic and full resolution of the mass on repeat echocardiography in nine weeks. More studies are needed to understand the optimal management and prognosis of patients with PCL.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Protein Kinase Inhibitor Pyrrol Derivate
Authors: Kuznietsova Halyna M. , Yena Maryna S. , Kotlyar Iryna P. , Ogloblya Olexandr V. , Rybalchenko Volodymyr K.
Published: December 2016

In our previous studies we showed antitumor and anti-inflammatory activities of protein kinases inhibitor pyrrol derivate 1-(4-Cl-benzyl)-3-Cl-4-(CF3-fenylamino)-1H-pyrrol-2,5-dione (MI-1) on rat colon cancer model. Therefore anti-inflammatory effect of MI-1 on rat acetic acid induced ulcerative colitis (UC) model was aimed to be discovered. The anti-inflammatory effects of MI-1 (2.7 mg/kg daily) compared to reference drug Prednisolone (0.7 mg/kg daily) after 14-day usage were evaluated on macro- and light microscopy levels and expressed in 21-grade scale. Redox status of bowel mucosa was also estimated. It was shown that in UC group the grade of total injury (GTI) was equal to 9.6 (GTIcontrol=0). Increase of malonic dialdehyde (MDA) by 89% and protein carbonyl groups (PCG) by 60% and decrease of superoxide dismutase (SOD) by 40% were also observed. Prednisolone decreased GTI to 3 and leveled SOD activity, but MDA and PCG remained higher than control ones by 52% and 42%, respectively. MI-1 restored colon mucosa integrity and decreased mucosa inflammation down to GTI = 0.5 and leveled PCG and SOD. Thus, MI-1 possessed anti-inflammatory properties, which were more expressed that Prednisolone ones, as well as normalized mucosa redox balance, and so has a prospect for correction of inflammatory processes.
Empty Container Management at Ports Considering Pollution, Repair Options, and Street-Turns
Authors: Sáinz Bernat Norberto , Schulte Frederik , Voß Stefan , Böse Jürgen
Published: December 2016

International trade imbalances make the management of empty containers within shipping networks an important economic and ecological problem. While import-dominated ports accumulate large amounts of empty containers, export-dominated ports need them as transport resources, requiring a repositioning transportation of empty containers on the sea and land side. Acknowledging the importance of the problem, plenty of respective literature has appeared. Since periodic review inventory management systems allow to model the inherent stochasticity of empty container transportation, they have emerged as a major solution approach in the domain. Nevertheless, existing approaches often omit crucial economic and ecological real world conditions determining the success of empty container management. Pollution, repair options, and street-turns are important aspects in this context. In this work, we present new stochastic review policies incorporating a realistic allocation scheme for empty container emissions, realistic maintenance, and repair options as well as street-turns. We analyze the optimality of the proposed polices and evaluate them in a simulation model with metaheuristic parameter search based on extensive real-world data from a major global shipping company operating in Latin America. Results provide insights for academics and practitioners about the economic and ecological impact of the distinct empty container management polices within a shipping network.
Fibrous Dysplasia versus Juvenile Ossifying Fibroma: A Dilemma
Authors: Nair Sreelakshmi N. , Kini Raghavendra , Rao Prasanna Kumar , Bhandarkar Gowri P. , Kashyp Roopashri Rajesh , Rai Manjunath , Naik Neel , Santhosh Athul
Published: December 2016

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a condition characterized by excessive proliferation of bone forming mesenchymal cells which can affect one bone (monostotic type) or multiple bones (polyostotic type). It is predominantly noticed in adolescents and young adults. Fibrous dysplasia affecting the jaws is an uncommon condition. The most commonly affected facial bone is the maxilla, with facial asymmetry being the chief complaint. The lesion in many instances is confused with ossifying fibroma (OF). Diagnosis of these two lesions has to be done based on clinical, radiographic, and microscopic findings. Here, we present a case of fibrous dysplasia of maxilla in a nine-year-old boy mimicking juvenile ossifying fibroma.
Acupuncture in the Treatment of a Female Patient Suffering from Chronic Schizophrenia and Sleep Disorders
Authors: Bosch Peggy , Lim Sabina , Yeo Sujung , Lee Sook-Hyun , Staudte Heike , van den Noort Maurits
Published: December 2016

Background. The use of acupuncture in the treatment of sleep disorders in patients with chronic schizophrenia is investigated.Case Presentation. We report the case of a 44-year-old female outpatient of German origin who had been suffering from long-term schizophrenia and sleep disorders. The patient was treated with manual acupuncture weekly for 12 weeks, and a psychological assessment was performed before, immediately after, and three months after the acupuncture treatment period. In addition, actiwatch data were collected for 14 days both before and after the acupuncture treatment period.Conclusion. Acupuncture treatment led to a decrease in general psychopathology, less severe sleep problems, and markedly improved cognitive functioning (working memory) in the patient; however, the positive and the negative symptoms remained stable. The actiwatch data revealed a beneficial effect of acupuncture, showing better sleep latency, a trend towards better sleep efficiency, and a decrease in the number of minutes that the patient was awake during the night after acupuncture treatment. In sum, this study showed that acupuncture might be beneficial in the treatment of sleep disorders in patients suffering from chronic schizophrenia, but future, large, randomized (placebo), controlled, clinical trials are needed in order to replicate the present preliminary findings.
Years of Life and Productivity Loss from Potentially Avoidable Colorectal Cancer Deaths in U.S. Counties with Lower Educational Attainment (2008–2012)
Authors: Weir Hannah K. , Li Chunyu , Henley S. Jane , Joseph Djenaba
Published: December 2016

Background: Educational attainment (EA) is inversely associated with colorectal cancer risk. Colorectal cancer screening can save lives if precancerous polyps or early cancers are found and successfully treated. This study aims to estimate the potential productivity loss (PPL) and associated avoidable colorectal cancer–related deaths among screen-eligible adults residing in lower EA counties in the United States.

Methods: Mortality and population data were used to examine colorectal cancer deaths (2008–2012) among adults aged 50 to 74 years in lower EA counties, and to estimate the expected number of deaths using the mortality experience from high EA counties. Excess deaths (observed−expected) were used to estimate potential years life lost, and the human capital method was used to estimate PPL in 2012 U.S. dollars.

Results: County-level colorectal cancer death rates were inversely associated with county-level EA. Of the 100,857 colorectal cancer deaths in lower EA counties, we estimated that more than 21,000 (1 in 5) was potentially avoidable and resulted in nearly $2 billion annual productivity loss.

Conclusions: County-level EA disparities contribute to a large number of potentially avoidable colorectal cancer–related deaths. Increased prevention and improved screening potentially could decrease deaths and help reduce the associated economic burden in lower EA communities. Increased screening could further reduce deaths in all EA groups.

Impact: These results estimate the large economic impact of potentially avoidable colorectal cancer–related deaths in economically disadvantaged communities, as measured by lower EA. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(5); 736–42. ©2016 AACR.
microRNA-221 Enhances MYCN via Targeting Nemo-like Kinase and Functions as an Oncogene Related to Poor Prognosis in Neuroblastoma
Authors: He Xiao-yan , Tan Zheng-lan , Mou Qin , Liu Fang-jie , Liu Shan , Yu Chao-wen , Zhu Jin , Lv Lin-ya , Zhang Jun , Wang Shan , Bao Li-ming , Peng Bin , Zhao Hui , Zou Lin
Published: December 2016

Purpose: MYCN is one of the most well-characterized genetic markers of neuroblastoma. However, the mechanisms as to how MYCN mediate neuroblastoma tumorigenesis are not fully clear. Increasing evidence has confirmed that the dysregulation of miRNAs is involved in MYCN-mediated neuroblastoma tumorigenesis, supporting their potential as therapeutic targets for neuroblastoma. Although miR-221 has been reported as one of the upregulated miRNAs, the interplay between miR-221 and MYCN-mediated neuroblastoma progression remains largely elusive.

Experimental Design: The expression of miR-221 in the formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from 31 confirmed patients with neuroblastoma was detected by locked nucleic acid-in situ hybridization and qRT-PCR. The correlation between miR-221 expression and clinical features in patients with neuroblastoma was assessed. The mechanisms as to how miR-221 regulate MYCN in neuroblastoma were addressed. The effect of miR-221 on cellular proliferation in neuroblastoma was determined both in vitro and in vivo.

Results: miR-221 was significantly upregulated in neuroblastoma tumor cells and tissues that overexpress MYCN, and high expression of miR-221 was positively associated with poor survival in patients with neuroblastoma. Nemo-like kinase (NLK) as a direct target of miR-221 in neuroblastoma was verified. In addition, overexpression of miR-221 decreased LEF1 phosphorylation but increased the expression of MYCN via targeting of NLK and further regulated cell cycle, particularly in S-phase, promoting the growth of neuroblastoma cells.

Conclusions: This study provides a novel insight for miR-221 in the control of neuroblastoma cell proliferation and tumorigenesis, suggesting potentials of miR-221 as a prognosis marker and therapeutic target for patients with MYCN overexpressing neuroblastoma. Clin Cancer Res; 23(11); 2905–18. ©2016 AACR.
Nanoparticle-Based Celecoxib and Plumbagin for the Synergistic Treatment of Melanoma
Authors: Gowda Raghavendra , Kardos Gregory , Sharma Arati , Singh Sanjay , Robertson Gavin P.
Published: December 2016

Using multiple drugs to kill cancer cells can decrease drug resistance development. However, this approach is frequently limited by the bioavailability and toxicity of the combined agents and delivery at ratios to specific locations that synergistically kill cancer cells. Loading the individual agents into a nanoparticle that releases the drugs at synergizing ratios at a single location is one approach to resolve this concern. Celecoxib and plumbagin are two drugs that were identified from a screen to synergistically kill melanoma cells compared with normal cells. Combined use of these agents by traditional approaches was not possible due to poor bioavailability and toxicologic concerns. This study details the development of a nanoliposomal-based agent containing celecoxib and plumbagin, called CelePlum-777, which is stable and releases these drugs at an optimal ratio for maximal synergistic killing efficacy. CelePlum-777 was more effective at killing melanoma than normal cells and inhibited xenograft melanoma tumor growth by up to 72% without apparent toxicity. Mechanistically, the drug combination in CelePlum-777 led to enhanced inhibition of melanoma cell proliferation mediated by decreasing levels of key cyclins important for cancer cell proliferation and survival, which was not observed with the individual agents. Thus, a novel nanoparticle-based drug has been developed containing celecoxib and plumbagin that lacks toxicity and delivers the agents at a synergistically killing drug ratio to kill cancer cells. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(3); 440–52. ©2016 AACR.
Angiopoietin-2 as a Biomarker and Target for Immune Checkpoint Therapy
Authors: Wu Xinqi , Giobbie-Hurder Anita , Liao Xiaoyun , Connelly Courtney , Connolly Erin M. , Li Jingjing , Manos Michael P. , Lawrence Donald , McDermott David , Severgnini Mariano , Zhou Jun , Gjini Evisa , Lako Ana , Lipschitz Mikel , Pak Christine J. , Abdelrahman Sara , Rodig Scott , Hodi F. Stephen
Published: December 2016

Immune checkpoint therapies targeting CTLA-4 and PD-1 have proven effective in cancer treatment. However, the identification of biomarkers for predicting clinical outcomes and mechanisms to overcome resistance remain as critical needs. Angiogenesis is increasingly appreciated as an immune modulator with potential for combinatorial use with checkpoint blockade. Angiopoietin-2 (ANGPT2) is an immune target in patients and is involved in resistance to anti-VEGF treatment with the monoclonal antibody bevacizumab. We investigated the predictive and prognostic value of circulating ANGPT2 in metastatic melanoma patients receiving immune checkpoint therapy. High pretreatment serum ANGPT2 was associated with reduced overall survival in CTLA-4 and PD-1 blockade–treated patients. These treatments also increased serum ANGPT2 in many patients early after treatment initiation, whereas ipilimumab plus bevacizumab treatment decreased serum concentrations. ANGPT2 increases were associated with reduced response and/or overall survival. Ipilimumab increased, and ipilimumab plus bevacizumab decreased, tumor vascular ANGPT2 expression in a subset of patients, which was associated with increased and decreased tumor infiltration by CD68+ and CD163+ macrophages, respectively. In vitro, bevacizumab blocked VEGF-induced ANGPT2 expression in tumor-associated endothelial cells, whereas ANGPT2 increased PD-L1 expression on M2-polarized macrophages. Treatments elicited long-lasting and functional antibody responses to ANGPT2 in a subset of patients receiving clinical benefit. Our findings suggest that serum ANGPT2 may be considered as a predictive and prognostic biomarker for immune checkpoint therapy and may contribute to treatment resistance via increasing proangiogenic and immunosuppressive activities in the tumor microenvironment. Targeting ANGPT2 provides a rational combinatorial approach to improve the efficacy of immune therapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(1); 17–28. ©2016 AACR.
Discrete Distribution Based on Compound Sum to Model Dental Caries Count Data
Authors: Vergnes Jean-Noel , Boucher Jean-Philippe , Lelong Nathalie , Sixou Michel , Nabet Cathy
Published: December 2016

Methods for analysing dental caries and associated risk indicators have evolved considerably in recent decades. The use of zero-inflated or hurdle models is increasing so as to take account of the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) distribution, which is positively skewed and has a high proportion of zero scores. However, there is a need to develop new statistical models that involve pragmatic biological considerations on dental caries in epidemiological surveys. In this paper, we show that the zero-inflated and the hurdle models can both be expressed as a compound sum. Using the same compound sum, we then present the generalized negative binomial (GNB) distribution for dental caries count data, and provide a numerical application using the data of the EPIPAP study. The GNB model generates the best score functions while handling the lifetime dental caries disease process better. In conclusion, the GNB model suits the nature of some count data, in particular when structural zeros are unlikely to occur and when several latent spells can lead to new countable events. For these reasons, the use of the GNB distribution appears to be relevant for the modelling of dental caries count data.
The Prevalence of Fabry Disease in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease in Turkey: The TURKFAB Study
Authors: Turkmen Kultigin , Guclu Aydın , Sahin Garip , Kocyigit Ismail , Demirtas Levent , Erdur Fatih Mehmet , Sengül Erkan , Ozkan Oktay , Emre Habib , Turgut Faruk , Unal Hilmi , Karaman Murat , Acıkel Cengiz , Esen Hasan , Balli Ebru , Bıtırgen Gulfidan , Tonbul Halil Zeki , Yılmaz Mahmut Ilker , Ortiz Alberto
Published: December 2016

Background/Aims: Fabry disease is a treatable cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) characterized by a genetic deficiency of α-galactosidase A. European Renal Best Practice (ERBP) recommends screening for Fabry disease in CKD patients. However, this is based on expert opinion and there are no reports of the prevalence of Fabry disease in stage 1-5 CKD. Hence, we investigated the prevalence of Fabry disease in CKD patients not receiving renal replacement therapy. Methods: This prospective study assessed α-galactosidase activity in dried blood spots in 313 stage 1-5 CKD patients, 167 males, between ages of 18-70 years whose etiology of CKD was unknown and were not receiving renal replacement therapy. The diagnosis was confirmed by GLA gene mutation analysis. Results: Three (all males) of 313 CKD patients (0.95%) were diagnosed of Fabry disease, for a prevalence in males of 1.80%. Family screening identified 8 aditional Fabry patients with CKD. Of a total of 11 Fabry patients, 7 were male and started enzyme replacement therapy and 4 were female. The most frequent manifestations in male patients were fatigue (100%), tinnitus, vertigo, acroparesthesia, hypohidrosis, cornea verticillata and angiokeratoma (all 85%), heat intolerance (71%), and abdominal pain (57%). The most frequent manifestations in female patients were fatigue and cornea verticillata (50%), and tinnitus, vertigo and angiokeratoma (25%). Three patients had severe episodic abdominal pain attacks and proteinuria, and were misdiagnosed as familial Mediterranean fever. Conclusions: The prevalence of Fabry disease in selected CKD patients is in the range found among renal replacement therapy patients, but the disease is diagnosed at an earlier, treatable stage. These data support the ERBP recommendation to screen for Fabry disease in patients with CKD of unknown origin.
A 2-Year, Longitudinal, Prospective Study of the Effects of Eltrombopag on Bone Marrow in Patients with Chronic Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Brynes Russell K. , Wong Raymond S.M. , Thein Maung M. , Bakshi Kalpana K. , Burgess Paul , Theodore Dickens , Orazi Attilio
Published: December 2016

Background: The long-term effects of eltrombopag on bone marrow (BM) reticulin and/or collagen deposition in previously treated adults with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) were assessed. Methods: Three BM biopsies were collected at baseline and after 1 and 2 years of eltrombopag treatment. Specimens were centrally processed, stained for reticulin and collagen, independently reviewed by 2 hematopathologists, and rated according to the European Consensus 0-3 scale of marrow fibrosis (MF). Results: Of 162 patients enrolled, 93 completed all 3 protocol-specified BM biopsies. All patients with a baseline assessment were negative for collagen. Of 159 patients assessed at baseline, 150 (94%) had normal reticulin (MF-0) and 9 (6%) had minimally increased reticulin (MF-1). After 2 years, 83/93 patients (89%) with BM biopsies had MF-0, 10 (11%) had MF-1, and none had MF-2 or MF-3. Five out of 127 patients (4%) at 1 year and 1 out of 93 (1%) at 2 years had collagen deposition. None of the patients had clinical symptoms typical of BM dysfunction or abnormalities of clinical concern based on white blood cell count or peripheral blood smear. Conclusion: For most patients with chronic ITP, eltrombopag is not associated with clinically relevant increases in BM reticulin or collagen formation.
Role of MiR-215 in Hirschsprung's Disease Pathogenesis by Targeting SIGLEC-8
Authors: Lei Hao , Li Hongxing , Xie Hua , Du Chunxia , Xia Yankai , Tang Weibing
Published: December 2016

Background/Aims: Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR), known as aganglionosis, is an infrequent congenital gut motility disorder characterized by absence of enteric neurons. In this study, we focus on the role of the intronic miR-215 and its host gene isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase 2 (IARS2) in the pathogenesis of HSCR. Methods: Quantitative real time PCR and Western blot were used to detect the miRNA, mRNAs, and proteins levels. The dual-luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed the direct regulation of the specific mRNA and miRNAs in cell lines. Transwell assays, CCK8 assay, and flow cytometry were used to measure cell function of the human 293T and SH-SY5Y cells. Results: Expression levels of miR-215 in HSCR patient colon tissues were outstandingly lower than controls, which was positively correlated with expression of the host gene IARS2 and negatively correlated with predicted target gene: sialic acid binding Ig-like lectin 8 (SIGLEC-8). The loss of miR-215 inhibited cell migration and proliferation, which was consistent with the reduction of IARS2. The dual-luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed that miR-215 resulted in the inhibition of SIGLEC-8 by directly binding to the 3'-UTR of SIGLEC-8. Moreover, knocking-down SIGLEC-8 rescued the extent of suppressed cell migration and proliferation that resulted from the diminishment of miR-215. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that miR-215 acts in concert with the host gene IARS2 to affect neuron migration and proliferation through the target gene SIGLEC-8. We infer that the IARS2-miR-215-SIGLEC-8 pathway may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of HSCR.