Stabilizing decentralized model predictive control of nonlinear systems

This note presents a stabilizing decentralized model predictive control (MPC) algorithm for nonlinear discrete time systems. No information is assumed to be exchanged between local control laws. The stability proof relies on the inclusion of a contractive constraint in the formulation of the MPC problem.     

Procedural memory stimulation in Alzheimer''s disease: impact of a training programme

The operative results of 23 patients with a specific or unspecific spondylodiscitis were documented over 2 years after the focus of the inflammation had been eradicated, bone chip had been interposed and a CDH instrumentation had been performed by an anterior approach only. These outcomes were compared with the results of 32 patients in whom the focus had been removed and the defect had been filled with bone graft from an anterior approach, followed by stabilisation with CD instrumentation through an additional dorsal approach. In the cases where CDH instrumentation was applied, the range of fusion averaged 1.3 segments. This was clearly less extensive than in dorsoventral stabilisation, in which on average 3.5 segments were fused. In 47 of 55 cases mobilisation was achieved without orthesis. Eight months after the operations bony fusion could be observed radiologically in all patients. The mean preoperative kyphotic angle of the affected segments was 14.4 degrees, compared to 4 degrees after the operation. The mean loss of reposition was measured to be about 2.7 degrees in both groups. Average operation time and blood loss were about 50% higher in the patients treated dorsoventrally. We conclude that even in the case of florid spondylodiscitis, a short-range anterior fusion of the affected spinal segment may be performed by use of a stable-angle implant without an increased risk of infection-related loosening.     

Special section technical notes and correspondence. Min-max model predictive control of nonlinear systems using discontinuous feedbacks

This note proposes a model predictive control (MPC) algorithm for the solution of a robust control problem for continuous-time systems. Discontinuous feedback strategies are allowed in the solution of the min-max problems to be solved. The use of such strategies allows MPC to address a large class of nonlinear systems, including among others nonholonomic systems. Robust stability conditions to ensure steering to a certain set under bounded disturbances are established. The use of bang-bang feedbacks described by a small number of parameters is proposed, reducing considerably the computational burden associated with solving a differential game. The applicability of the proposed algorithm is tested to control a unicycle mobile robot.     

On the stabilization of nonlinear discrete‐time systems with output feedback

This paper considers output‐feedback control of nonlinear discrete‐time systems using a nonlinear state‐feedback controller combined with a nonlinear observer. Under suitable assumptions, either asymptotic stability or exponential stability of the closed‐loop system are established. These results have a general validity and are essential in many advanced nonlinear control techniques, such as model predictive control of nonlinear discrete‐time systems, where many algorithms for the solution of the state‐feedback control problem have been proposed in recent years. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

On the solution of the tracking problem for non-linear systems with MPC

This paper presents a Model Predictive Control (MPC) algorithm for non-linear systems which solves the tracking problem for asymptotically constant references. Closed-loop stability of the equilibrium and asymptotic zero-error regulation are guaranteed. The performance of the method is discussed with the classical Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR) control application.     

Production of human growth hormone by Lactococcus lactis

A synthetic gene coding for human growth hormone was expressed in Lactococcus lactis. The presence of the recombinant protein was assayed and quantified using ELISA tests. Human growth hormone was detected at high concentrations and displayed a biological activity similar to the one shown by commercial human growth hormone.     

Molecular Heterojunctions of Oligo(phenylene ethynylene)s with Linear to Cruciform Framework

Electrical transport properties of molecular junctions are fundamentally affected by the energy alignment between molecular frontier orbitals (highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) or lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO)) and Fermi level (or work function) of electrode metals. Dithiafulvene (DTF) is used as substituent group to the oligo(phenylene ethynylene) (OPE) molecular wires and different molecular structures based on OPE3 backbone (with linear to cruciform framework) are achieved, with viable molecular orbitals and HOMO–LUMO energy gaps. OPE3, OPE3–DTF, and OPE3–tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) can form good self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) on Au substrates. Molecular heterojunctions based on these SAMs are investigated using conducting probe–atomic force microscopy with different tips (Ag, Au, and Pt) and Fermi levels. The calibrated conductance values follow the sequence OPE3–TTF > OPE3–DTF > OPE3 irrespective of the tip metal. Rectification properties (or diode behavior) are observed in case of the Ag tip for which the work function is furthest from the HOMO levels of the OPE3s. Quantum chemical calculations of the transmission qualitatively agree with the experimental data and reproduce the substituent effect of DTF. Zero‐bias conductance, and symmetric or asymmetric couplings to the electrodes are investigated. The results indicate that improved fidelity of molecular transport measurements may be achieved by systematic studies of homologues series of molecular wires applying several different metal electrodes.     

Targeting the DNA Damage Response to Increase Anthracycline-Based Chemotherapy Cytotoxicity in T-Cell Lymphoma

Mature T-cell lymphomas (MTCLs) represent a heterogeneous group of aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphomas comprising different entities. Anthracycline-based regimens are considered the standard of care in the front-line treatment. However, responses to these approaches have been neither adequate nor durable, and new treatment strategies are urgently needed to improve survival. Genomic instability is a common feature of cancer cells and can be caused by aberrations in the DNA damage response (DDR) and DNA repair mechanisms. Consistently, molecules involved in DDR are being targeted to successfully sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy. Recent studies showed that some hematological malignancies display constitutive DNA damage and intrinsic DDR activation, but these features have not been investigated yet in MTCLs. In this study, we employed a panel of malignant T cell lines, and we report for the first time the characterization of intrinsic DNA damage and basal DDR activation in preclinical models in T-cell lymphoma. Moreover, we report the efficacy of targeting the apical kinase ATM using the inhibitor AZD0156, in combination with standard chemotherapy to promote apoptotic cell death. These findings suggest that DDR is an attractive pathway to be pharmacologically targeted when developing novel therapies and improving MTCL patients’ outcomes.     

Detection and identification of tyrDC + enterococcal strains from pasteurized commercial cheeses

The aim of this study was to isolate and identify strains of Enterococcus from commercial cheeses and then analyze their abilities to produce biogenic amines. The genotypic variability, studied by randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD)-PCR, showed a high degree of homogeneity among enterococcal strains. Afterward, genotypic analysis indicated that all strains contain genes encoding a tyrosine decarboxylase. Our results indicate that a potential health risk exists if the enterococcal strains are able to survive the pasteurization of milk or appear as post-pasteurization contaminants. These results highlight the importance of the hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) to minimize the risk of hazards associated with post-contamination during cheese elaboration