bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Viscoelastic-Elastoplastic Finite Strain Framework for Modeling Polymers
Authors: Lapczyk Ireneusz , Hurtado Juan A. 
Published: February 2016

In this paper we present a new constitutive framework, the Parallel Rheological Framework (PRF), for modeling polymers that has been recently developed by the authors and implemented in the commercial finite element software Abaqus [1]. The framework is based on parallel finite-strain viscoelastic and elastoplastic networks. For each viscoelastic network a multiplicative split of the deformation gradient into elastic and viscous components is assumed. The evolution of the viscous component of the deformation gradient is governed by a flow rule obtained assuming the existence of a creep potential. The flow rule is expressed as a function of stress invariants and internal variables, and different evolution laws for the internal variables are allowed within the framework of the model. Similar to the viscoelastic networks, the deformation gradient in the elastoplastic network is decomposed into elastic and plastic components. The yield surface is defined assuming combined isotropic/kinematic hardening. The yield surface is a function of a scalar internal variable that describes isotropic hardening, and a tensorial internal variable (backstress) that describes the shift of the yield surface in the stress space. The evolution of the scalar variable is governed by associated flow rule, while the evolution of backstresses is determined by the Armstrong-Frederick law [2], which is extended to finite-strain deformations. Finally, stress softening is introduced into an elastoplastic network using a modified version of Ogden and Roxbourgh’s pseudo-elasticity model [3].
This paper presents an outline of the framework, including two recent enhancements: a new creep model (the power law model) and combined isotropic/kinematic hardening plasticity model. The framework is then applied to analyze numerically the uniaxial loading/unloading behaviors of filled natural rubber and an EPDM polymer. The results obtained using finite element simulations show very good correlation with experimental data.
The Investigation of Stress Distribution on the Tractor Clutch Finger Mechanism by Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Karpat F. , Dogan O. , Yuce C. , Kaya N. , Cengiz G. 
Published: February 2016

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for tractor usage for agricultural activities in the world. Tractors are an integral part of mechanization and have a crucial role to play to enhance agricultural productivity. They are used for many kinds of farm work, under various soil and field conditions. It provides agricultural activities in challenging conditions by using several farming equipment. During the operations, tractors have to efficiently transfer power from the engine to the drive wheels and PTO through a transmission. Tractor clutch is the essential element in this system. During the torque transmission, loads which occur on the clutch components cause damages. In many cases, especially PTO clutch finger mechanism is fractured under the torque transmission.
In this study, finger mechanism, which used in tractor clutch PTO disc, is investigated. Finite element analyses were performed for two different thicknesses (3.5 and 4 mm) of the finger mechanism. Stress and deformation values which occur during the transfer of power in a safe manner are investigated for these thicknesses. The finger mechanism CAD models were created using CATIA V5 and then imported into ANSYS for static finite element analyses. As a result of the analyses, approximately 13% stress decreasing was observed with the increment of the 0.5 mm for the finger thicknesses. Results from the analyses provide an accurate prediction of the material yielding and load path distribution on the PTO clutch finger. To verify the analyses results prototype PTO finger mechanism was manufactured and was conducted bench tests. Consequently, a good correlation was achieved between finite element model and test results.
A role of the adaptive immune system in glucose homeostasis
Authors: Bronsart Laura L , Contag Christopher H 
Published: February 2016

ObjectiveThe immune system, including the adaptive immune response, has recently been recognized as having a significant role in diet-induced insulin resistance. In this study, we aimed to determine if the adaptive immune system also functions in maintaining physiological glucose homeostasis in the absence of diet-induced disease.Research design and methodsSCID mice and immunocompetent control animals were phenotypically assessed for variations in metabolic parameters and cytokine profiles. Additionally, the glucose tolerance of SCID and immunocompetent control animals was assessed following introduction of a high-fat diet.ResultsSCID mice on a normal chow diet were significantly insulin resistant relative to control animals despite having less fat mass. This was associated with a significant increase in the innate immunity-stimulating cytokines granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP1), and MCP3. Additionally, the SCID mouse phenotype was exacerbated in response to a high-fat diet as evidenced by the further significant progression of glucose intolerance.ConclusionsThese results support the notion that the adaptive immune system plays a fundamental biological role in glucose homeostasis, and that the absence of functional B and T cells results in disruption in the concentrations of various cytokines associated with macrophage proliferation and recruitment. Additionally, the absence of functional B and T cells is not protective against diet-induced pathology.
The China Patient-Centred Evaluative Assessment of Cardiac Events (China PEACE)-Prospective Study of 3-Vessel Disease: rationale and design
Authors: Rao Chenfei , Bongiovanni Tasce , Li Xi , Gao Huawei , Zhang Heng , Li Jing , Zhao Yan , Yuan Xin , Hua Kun , Hu Shengshou , Krumholz Harlan M , Jiang Lixin , Zheng Zhe 
Published: February 2016

IntroductionComplex coronary artery disease (left main and three-vessel disease) carries high risks of adverse events and cost burden. However, in China, little is known about which patients are directed toward which treatment strategies and what outcomes are being achieved.Methods and analysisUsing the China PEACE (Patient-centered Evaluative Assessment of Cardiac Events) research network, this prospective study of three-Vessel Disease, the China PEACE-3VD study, has a plan to consecutively register over 4000 patients with a diagnosis of 3VD and/or left-main disease by elective coronary angiography at 24 large cardiovascular centres in China. We centrally conducted medical record abstraction and SYNTAX Score calculation for all registered patients. The sites invited patients to the prospective cohort, and conducted 1-year follow-up on major events, including cardiac events, symptoms, secondary prevention and quality of life. The estimated entire sample size of eligible patients of 4000 was determined based on both feasibility and consideration of adequate statistical precision for describing the treatment decisions, guidelines adherence and appropriateness of treatment for patients with complex coronary artery diseases. The study is designed to investigate patient, clinician and hospital factors associated with each treatment strategy (percutaneous coronary intervention, coronary artery bypass grafting or medical therapy) as well as appropriateness of treatment choice, current guideline compliance and patient-reported outcomes for patients with complex coronary artery disease in large cardiovascular centres in China, as a foundation for enhanced knowledge in the field and to assist quality improvement initiatives.Ethics and disseminationThe study protocol was approved by the ethics committee at the China National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases. Findings will be shared with participating hospitals, policymakers and the academic community, to promote quality monitoring, quality improvement and the efficient allocation, and use of coronary revascularisation procedures in China.Trial registration numberNCT01625312; Pre-results
Decreased use of glucocorticoids in biological-experienced patients with rheumatoid arthritis who initiated intravenous abatacept: results from the 2-year ACTION study
Authors: Alten Rieke , Nüßlein Hubert , Galeazzi Mauro , Lorenz Hanns-Martin , Nurmohamed Michael T , Bensen William G , Burmester Gerd R , Peter Hans-Hartmut , Pavelka Karel , Chartier Mélanie , Poncet Coralie , Rauch Christiane , Elbez Yedid , Le Bars Manuela 
Published: February 2016

IntroductionProlonged glucocorticoid use may increase the risk of adverse safety outcomes, including cardiovascular events. The European League Against Rheumatism and the Canadian Rheumatology Association advise tapering glucocorticoid dose as rapidly as clinically feasible. There is a paucity of published data on RA that adequately describe concomitant treatment patterns.MethodsACTION (AbataCepT In rOutiNe clinical practice) is a non-interventional cohort study of patients from Europe and Canada that investigated the long-term retention of intravenous abatacept in clinical practice. We assessed concomitant glucocorticoids in patients with established RA who had participated in ACTION and received ≥1 biological agent prior to abatacept initiation.ResultsThe analysis included 1009 patients. Glucocorticoids were prescribed at abatacept initiation in 734 (72.7%) patients at a median 7.5 mg/day dose (n=692). Of the patients who remained on abatacept at 24 months, 40.7% were able to decrease their dose of glucocorticoids, including 26.9% who decreased their dose from >5 mg/day to ≤5 mg/day.ConclusionReduction and/or cessation of glucocorticoid therapy is possible with intravenous abatacept in clinical practice.
Relation of Lateral Antebrachial Cutaneous Nerve to the Volar Approach to Distal Radius
Authors: Tan Valerie H. , Tong Pei Yein , Liao Janice , Lee Han Jing , Foo Tun-Lin 
Published: February 2016

Background: The anatomy of the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve (LABCN) in relation to volar approaches to the distal radius is not well visited. With the increasing popularity of distal radius fracture fixation with volar locking plates, it is prudent to study the innervation pattern of the LABCN to minimize the risk of nerve injury. Methods: Ten cadaveric distal radial forearms were dissected to study the relationship between the LABCN, flexor carpi radialis (FCR), superficial branch of radial nerve (SBRN), and scaphoid tubercle (ST). Results: The LABCN coursed closer to the FCR than the SBRN, with branches traversing the tendon in two specimens. The LABCN was also noted to be intimately related to the radial artery, with an average distance of the LABCN from the lateral border of FCR was 6.4mm distally and 9.6mm proximally. Conclusions: There is a sparsely innervated corridor between the radial border of the FCR and terminal branches of the LABCN that provides safe access for volar approach to the distal radius.
Redundant Innate and Adaptive Sources of IL17 Production Drive Colon Tumorigenesis
Authors: Housseau Franck , Wu Shaoguang , Wick Elizabeth C. , Fan Hongni , Wu Xinqun , Llosa Nicolas J. , Smith Kellie N. , Tam Ada , Ganguly Sudipto , Wanyiri Jane W. , Iyadorai Thevambiga , Malik Ausama A. , Roslani April C. , Vadivelu Jamunarani S. , Van Meerbeke Sara , Huso David L. , Pardoll Drew M. , Sears Cynthia L. 
Published: February 2016

Abstract
IL17-producing Th17 cells, generated through a STAT3-dependent mechanism, have been shown to promote carcinogenesis in many systems, including microbe-driven colon cancer. Additional sources of IL17, such as γδ T cells, become available under inflammatory conditions, but their contributions to cancer development are unclear. In this study, we modeled Th17-driven colon tumorigenesis by colonizing MinApc+/− mice with the human gut bacterium, enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (ETBF), to investigate the link between inflammation and colorectal cancer. We found that ablating Th17 cells by knocking out Stat3 in CD4+ T cells delayed tumorigenesis, but failed to suppress the eventual formation of colonic tumors. However, IL17 blockade significantly attenuated tumor formation, indicating a critical requirement for IL17 in tumorigenesis, but from a source other than Th17 cells. Notably, genetic ablation of γδ T cells in ETBF-colonized Th17-deficient Min mice prevented the late emergence of colonic tumors. Taken together, these findings support a redundant role for adaptive Th17 cell- and innate γδT17 cell-derived IL17 in bacteria-induced colon carcinogenesis, stressing the importance of therapeutically targeting the cytokine itself rather than its cellular sources. Cancer Res; 76(8); 2115–24. ©2016 AACR.
Small-Molecule Inhibition of GCNT3 Disrupts Mucin Biosynthesis and Malignant Cellular Behaviors in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Rao Chinthalapally V. , Janakiram Naveena B. , Madka Venkateshwar , Kumar Gaurav , Scott Edgar J. , Pathuri Gopal , Bryant Taylor , Kutche Hannah , Zhang Yuting , Biddick Laura , Gali Hariprasad , Zhao Yan D. , Lightfoot Stan , Mohammed Altaf 
Published: February 2016

Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive neoplasm with almost uniform lethality and a 5-year survival rate of 7%. Several overexpressed mucins that impede drug delivery to pancreatic tumors have been therapeutically targeted, but enzymes involved in mucin biosynthesis have yet to be preclinically evaluated as potential targets. We used survival data from human patients with pancreatic cancer, next-generation sequencing of genetically engineered Kras-driven mouse pancreatic tumors and human pancreatic cancer cells to identify the novel core mucin-synthesizing enzyme GCNT3 (core 2 β-1,6 N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase). In mouse pancreatic cancer tumors, GCNT3 upregulation (103-fold; P &lt; 0.0001) was correlated with increased expression of mucins (5 to 87-fold; P &lt; 0.04–0.0003). Aberrant GCNT3 expression was also associated with increased mucin production, aggressive tumorigenesis, and reduced patient survival, and CRISPR-mediated knockout of GCNT3 in pancreatic cancer cells reduced proliferation and spheroid formation. Using in silico small molecular docking simulation approaches, we identified talniflumate as a novel inhibitor that selectively binds to GCNT3. In particular, docking predictions suggested that three notable hydrogen bonds between talniflumate and GCNT3 contribute to a docking affinity of −8.3 kcal/mol. Furthermore, talniflumate alone and in combination with low-dose gefitinib reduced GCNT3 expression, leading to the disrupted production of mucins in vivo and in vitro. Collectively, our findings suggest that targeting mucin biosynthesis through GCNT3 may improve drug responsiveness, warranting further development and investigation in preclinical models of pancreatic tumorigenesis. Cancer Res; 76(7); 1965–74. ©2016 AACR.
First record of the copepod Neomormonilla minor (Giesbrecht, 1891) (Mormonilloida, Mormonillidae) for the Humboldt Current System off the Chilean coast
Authors: Fierro P. A. , Hidalgo P. , Pino-Pinuer P. , Marchant M. 
Published: February 2016

Neomormonilla minor (Giesbrecht, 1891) is a small planktonic copepod distributed widely in intermediate and deep waters of the ocean, mainly at depths of 400-1000 m. The species was reported earlier only for the tropical Pacific Ocean (Central America, Galapagos Islands, and north of Peru). The present study provides the first record of females of the species for the southeastern Pacific, i.e., in the Humboldt Current System off the coast of northern Chile (23-27°S). Here we describe and illustrate the taxonomic characteristics of this species that will allow its identification and differentiation with respect to other species of the genus and of the family Mormonillidae.
Psychiatric risk factors predicting post-liver transplant physical and psychiatric complications: a literature review
Authors: Eftekar Mahdod , Pun Paul 
Published: February 2016

Objectives: The psychiatric assessment of potential liver transplant recipients is becoming increasingly common in clinical practice. In such assessments, the psychiatrist is invited by the transplant team to assess the patient prior to the patient receiving a transplant liver to identify factors that could predict an unsuccessful post-transplant course, whether this is from a psychiatric or physical perspective. This review examined published research from 2000 to 2014 on psychological risk factors predicting post-transplant physical and psychiatric complications. Conclusions: Based on the strength of the evidence available, our review identified four risk factors: mood disorders; social supports; substance misuse; and alcohol dependence. These factors could potentially provide a framework to guide the evaluation and prediction of psychological and physical complications post-liver transplantation.
Do weight management interventions delivered by online social networks effectively improve body weight, body composition, and chronic disease risk factors? A systematic review
Authors: Willis Erik A , Szabo-Reed Amanda N , Ptomey Lauren T , Steger Felicia L , Honas Jeffery J , Washburn Richard A , Donnelly Joseph E 
Published: February 2016

Introduction Currently, no systematic review/meta-analysis has examined studies that used online social networks (OSN) as a primary intervention platform. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to evaluate the effectiveness of weight management interventions delivered through OSN. Methods PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched (January 1990–November 2015) for studies with data on the effect of OSNs on weight loss. Only primary source articles that utilized OSN as the main platform for delivery of weight management/healthy lifestyle interventions, were published in English language peer-reviewed journals, and reported outcome data on weight were eligible for inclusion in this systematic review. Five articles were included in this review. Results One-hundred percent of the studies ( n = 5) reported a reduction in baseline weight. Three of the five studies (60%) reported significant decreases in body weight when OSN was paired with health educator support. Only one study reported a clinical significant weight loss of ≥5%. Conclusion Using OSN for weight management is in its early stages of development and, while these few studies show promise, more research is needed to acquire information about optimizing these interventions to increase their efficacy.
Cost-utility analysis of stenting versus endarterectomy in the International Carotid Stenting Study
Authors: Morris Stephen , Patel Nishma V , Dobson Joanna , Featherstone Roland L , Richards Toby , Luengo-Fernandez Ramon , Rothwell Peter M , Brown Martin M ,   on behalf of the International Carotid Stenting Study investigators
Published: February 2016

Background The International Carotid Stenting Study was a multicenter randomized trial in which patients with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis were randomly allocated to treatment by carotid stenting or endarterectomy. Economic evidence comparing these treatments is limited and inconsistent. Aims We compared the cost-effectiveness of stenting versus endarterectomy using International Carotid Stenting Study data. Methods We performed a cost-utility analysis estimating mean costs and quality-adjusted life years per patient for both treatments over a five-year time horizon based on resource use data and utility values collected in the trial. Costs of managing stroke events were estimated using individual patient data from a UK population-based study (Oxford Vascular Study). Results Mean costs per patient (95% CI) were US$10,477 ($9669 to $11,285) in the stenting group (N = 853) and $9669 ($8835 to $10,504) in the endarterectomy group (N = 857). There were no differences in mean quality-adjusted life years per patient (3.247 (3.160 to 3.333) and 3.228 (3.150 to 3.306), respectively). There were no differences in adjusted costs between groups (mean incremental costs for stenting versus endarterectomy $736 (95% CI –$353 to $1826)) or adjusted outcomes (mean quality-adjusted life years gained −0.010 (95% CI −0.117 to 0.097)). The incremental net monetary benefit for stenting versus endarterectomy was not significantly different from zero at the maximum willingness to pay for a quality-adjusted life year commonly used in the UK. Sensitivity analyses showed little uncertainty in these findings. Conclusions Economic considerations should not affect whether patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis undergo stenting or endarterectomy.
Performance of e-ASPECTS software in comparison to that of stroke physicians on assessing CT scans of acute ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Herweh Christian , Ringleb Peter A , Rauch Geraldine , Gerry Steven , Behrens Lars , Möhlenbruch Markus , Gottorf Rebecca , Richter Daniel , Schieber Simon , Nagel Simon 
Published: February 2016

Background The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT score (ASPECTS) is an established 10-point quantitative topographic computed tomography scan score to assess early ischemic changes. We compared the performance of the e-ASPECTS software with those of stroke physicians at different professional levels. Methods The baseline computed tomography scans of acute stroke patients, in whom computed tomography and diffusion-weighted imaging scans were obtained less than two hours apart, were retrospectively scored by e-ASPECTS as well as by three stroke experts and three neurology trainees blinded to any clinical information. The ground truth was defined as the ASPECTS on diffusion-weighted imaging scored by another two non-blinded independent experts on consensus basis. Sensitivity and specificity in an ASPECTS region-based and an ASPECTS score-based analysis as well as receiver-operating characteristic curves, Bland–Altman plots with mean score error, and Matthews correlation coefficients were calculated. Comparisons were made between the human scorers and e-ASPECTS with diffusion-weighted imaging being the ground truth. Two methods for clustered data were used to estimate sensitivity and specificity in the region-based analysis. Results In total, 34 patients were included and 680 (34 × 20) ASPECTS regions were scored. Mean time from onset to computed tomography was 172 ± 135 min and mean time difference between computed tomographyand magnetic resonance imaging was 41 ± 31 min. The region-based sensitivity (46.46% [CI: 30.8;62.1]) of e-ASPECTS was better than three trainees and one expert ( p ≤ 0.01) and not statistically different from another two experts. Specificity (94.15% [CI: 91.7;96.6]) was lower than one expert and one trainee ( p < 0.01) and not statistically different to the other four physicians. e-ASPECTS had the best Matthews correlation coefficient of 0.44 (experts: 0.38 ± 0.08 and trainees: 0.19 ± 0.05) and the lowest mean score error of 0.56 (experts: 1.44 ± 1.79 and trainees: 1.97 ± 2.12). Conclusion e-ASPECTS showed a similar performance to that of stroke experts in the assessment of brain computed tomographys of acute ischemic stroke patients with the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT score method.