Polytechnic University of Turin

About: Polytechnic University of Turin is a education organization based out in Turin, Piemonte, Italy. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Finite element method & Nonlinear system. The organization has 11553 authors who have published 41395 publications receiving 789320 citations. The organization is also known as: POLITO & Politecnico di Torino.

Comparison of multi-objective optimization methodologies for engineering applications

Abstract: Computational models describing the behavior of complex physical systems are often used in the engineering design field to identify better or optimal solutions with respect to previously defined performance criteria. Multi-objective optimization problems arise and the set of optimal compromise solutions (Pareto front) has to be identified by an effective and complete search procedure in order to let the decision maker, the designer, to carry out the best choice. Four multi-objective optimization techniques are analyzed by describing their formulation, advantages and disadvantages. The effectiveness of the selected techniques for engineering design purposes is verified by comparing the results obtained by solving a few benchmarks and a real structural engineering problem concerning an engine bracket of a car.

Integrated transcriptional and competitive endogenous RNA networks are cross-regulated in permissive molecular environments

Abstract: Competitive endogenous (ce)RNAs cross-regulate each other through sequestration of shared microRNAs and form complex regulatory networks based on their microRNA signature. However, the molecular requirements for ceRNA cross-regulation and the extent of ceRNA networks remain unknown. Here, we present a mathematical mass-action model to determine the optimal conditions for ceRNA activity in silico. This model was validated using phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and its ceRNA VAMP (vesicle-associated membrane protein)-associated protein A (VAPA) as paradigmatic examples. A computational assessment of the complexity of ceRNA networks revealed that transcription factor and ceRNA networks are intimately intertwined. Notably, we found that ceRNA networks are responsive to transcription factor up-regulation or their aberrant expression in cancer. Thus, given optimal molecular conditions, alterations of one ceRNA can have striking effects on integrated ceRNA and transcriptional networks.

On the closure of mass balance models for tumor growth

Abstract: Mass balance equations typically adopted to describe tumor growth are to be closed by introducing a suitable velocity field. The first part of this paper is devoted to a critical review of some approaches devised to this aim in the relevant literature. In the second part we start from the observation that the phenomenological description of a tumor spheroid suggests to model it as a growing and deformable porous material. The concept of volume fraction and the essentials of the mechanics of multicomponent continua are then introduced and applied to the problem at hand. The system of equations regulating such a system is stated and its validity is then discussed at the light of numerical simulations.