bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Pseudoprogression versus Progression using Machine Learning Algorithm in Glioblastoma
Authors: Jang Bum-Sup , Jeon Seung Hyuck , Kim Il Han , Kim In Ah
Published: August 2018

We aimed to investigate the feasibility of machine learning (ML) algorithm to distinguish pseudoprogression (PsPD) from progression (PD) in patients with glioblastoma (GBM). We recruited the patients diagnosed as primary GBM who received gross total resection (GTR) and concurrent chemoradiotherapy in two institutions from April 2010 to April 2017 and presented suspicious contrast-enhanced lesion on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) during follow-up. Patients from two institutions were allocated to training (N = 59) and testing (N = 19) datasets, respectively. We developed a convolutional neural network combined with a long short-term memory ML structure. MRI data, which was 9 axial post-contrast T1-weighted images in our study, and clinical features were incorporated (Model 1). In the testing set, the trained Model 1 resulted in AUC of 0.83, AUPRC of 0.87, and F1-score of 0.74 using optimal threshold. The performance was superior to that of Model 2 (CNN-LSTM model with MRI data alone) and Model 3 (random forest model with clinical feature alone). The developed algorithm involving MRI data and clinical features could help making decision during follow-up of patients with GBM treated with GTR and concurrent CCRT.
Mixotrophic Microalgae Biofilm: A Novel Algae Cultivation Strategy for Improved Productivity and Cost-efficiency of Biofuel Feedstock Production
Authors: Roostaei Javad , Zhang Yongli , Gopalakrishnan Kishore , Ochocki Alexander J.
Published: August 2018

In this work, we studied a novel algae cultivation strategy, mixotrophic microalgae biofilm, to improve the productivity and cost-efficiency of algal biofuel production. In contrast to previous methods, this improved approach can achieve high productivity at low cost by harnessing the benefits of mixotrophic growth’s high efficiency, i.e., capable of subsisting on inorganic and organic carbons thus unaffected by limited light, and microalgae biofilm’s low harvesting cost. Our results, as one of the first studies of this type, proved that microalgae biofilms under mixotrophic condition exhibited significantly higher productivity and quality of biofuel feedstock: 2–3 times higher of biomass yield, 2–10 times higher of lipid accumulation, and 40–60% lower of ash content when compared to microalgae biofilms under autotrophic condition. In addition, we investigated the impact of cell-surface properties (hydrophobicity and roughness) on the growth activities of microalgae biofilms and found that the productivity of mixotrophic biofilms was significantly correlated with the surface hydrophobicity. Finally, our work demonstrated the applicability of integrating this novel cultivation method with wastewater for maximum efficiency. This study opens a new possibility to solve the long-lasting challenges of algal biofuel feedstock production, i.e., low productivity and high cost of algal cultivation.
A highly selective naphthalimide-based ratiometric fluorescent probe for the recognition of tyrosinase and cellular imaging
Authors: Singh Sidhu Jagpreet , Singh Ashutosh , Garg Neha , Kaur Navneet , Singh Narinder
Published: August 2018

Upon the addition of tyrosinase to the probe solution, the monophenolic unit is oxidized to o-dihydroxy and consequently releases the 4-aminonaphthalimide unit.
Stannous oxide promoted charge separation in rationally designed heterojunction photocatalysts with a controllable mechanism
Authors: Huang Shaolong , Jin Zhengyuan , Yi Huan , Yang Ziyu , Long Yaojia , Liao Qiufan , Chen Jiaqi , Cao Yaan , Ruan Shuangchen , Zeng Yu-Jia
Published: August 2018

SnO acts as a universal promoter for the photocatalytic reaction with a mechanism switching from the Z-scheme to type II.
A simple, scalable approach for combining carbon dots with hexagonal nanoplates of nickel-based compounds for efficient photocatalytic reduction
Authors: Song Zhenchao , Chang Qing , Trinchi Adrian , Li Ning , Wang Huiqi , Yang Jinlong , Hu Shengliang
Published: August 2018

The combination of carbon dots and hexagonal nanoplates of nickel-based compounds exhibits enhanced visible light absorption and excellent photocatalytic performance for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol.
Effect of carbon-based materials and CeO2 on Ni catalysts for Kraft lignin liquefaction in supercritical water
Authors: Cardoso Aderlanio , Ramirez Reina Tomas , Suelves Isabel , Pinilla José Luis , Millan Marcos , Hellgardt Klaus
Published: August 2018

Kraft lignin (KL) is a by-product from cellulose production typically treated as a waste or used as a low-value fuel in heat and power generation in the pulp and paper industry.
Magnetically induced current density using London atomic orbitals of dihydroindeno-[1,2-b]-fluorenes
Authors: Barboza Cristina A. , Bast Radovan , Barboza Ezequiel , MacLeod-Carey Desmond , Arratia-Perez Ramiro
Published: August 2018

We have investigated the substitution effect over the aromaticity of dihydroindeno-[1,2-b]-fluorene, through magnetically induced current and NICSzz calculations.
Fabrication of a visible-light In2S3/BiPO4 heterojunction with enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Zhang Menghan , Hou Zhiqiang , Ma Wei , Zhao Xiaoxu , Ma Changchang , Zhu Zhi , Yan Yongsheng , Li Chunxiang
Published: August 2018

The construction of a heterojunction is an effective way to improve the photocatalytic activity of a semiconductor.
Structural and physical properties of a new reversible and continuous thermochromic ionic liquid in a wide temperature interval: [BMIM]4[Ni(NCS)6]
Authors: López Lago Elena , Seijas Julio A. , de Pedro Imanol , Rodríguez Fernández Jesús , Vázquez-Tato M. Pilar , González Jesús Antonio , Rilo Esther , Segade Luisa , Cabeza Oscar , Rodríguez Fernández Carlos Damián , Arosa Yago , Algnamat Bilal S. , Varela Luis M. , Troncoso Jacobo , de la Fuente Raúl
Published: August 2018

Continuous and reversible solar-responsive thermochromism in [BMIM]4[Ni(NCS)6], an ionic liquid that withstands numerous heating–cooling cycles.
Heparin assisted assembly of somatostatin amyloid nanofibrils results in disordered precipitates by hindrance of protofilaments interactions
Authors: Dharmadana Durga , Reynolds Nicholas P. , Dekiwadia Chaitali , Conn Charlotte E. , Valéry Céline
Published: August 2018

We show that the self-assembly of the functional amyloid forming neuropeptide somatostatin-14 is dramatically altered by the presence of GAGs such as heparin and chondroitin sulphate. This work highlights the dangers of using such polymeric sugars as supposedly “inert” amyloid aggregation promotors.
Facile silane functionalization of graphene oxide
Authors: Abbas Syeda S. , Rees Gregory J. , Kelly Nicole L. , Dancer Claire E. J. , Hanna John V. , McNally Tony
Published: August 2018

The facile silane functionalization of graphene oxide (GO) was achieved yielding vinyltrimethoxysilane-reduced graphene oxide (VTMOS-rGO) nanospheres located in the inter-layer spacing between rGO sheets via an acid–base reaction using aqueous media.
Stretchable and conformable synapse memristors for wearable and implantable electronics
Authors: Yang Mihua , Zhao Xiaoli , Tang Qingxin , Cui Nan , Wang Zhongqiang , Tong Yanhong , Liu Yichun
Published: August 2018

Based on organic stretchable materials, the memristor successfully realizes multiple synaptic functions at stretched state and onto the curved surface.
Rationalisation of a mechanism for sensing single point variants in target DNA using anthracene-tagged base discriminating probes
Authors: Duprey Jean-Louis H. A. , Bassani Dario M. , Hyde Eva I. , Jonusauskas Gediminas , Ludwig Christian , Rodger Alison , Spencer Neil , Vyle Joseph S. , Wilkie John , Zhao Zheng-Yun , Tucker James H. R.
Published: August 2018

The fluorescence sensing mechanism for identifying single base changes in target DNA strands has been established through detailed biophysical measurements.
Cesium carbonate-promoted synthesis of aryl methyl sulfides using S-methylisothiourea sulfate under transition-metal-free conditions
Authors: Zhang Caiyang , Zhou You , Huang Jintao , Tu Canhui , Zhou Xiaoai , Yin Guodong
Published: August 2018

Odourless and crystalline solid S-methylisothiourea sulfate can be used as the S-source for the synthesis of aryl methyl sulfides.
Palladium-catalyzed salt-free double decarboxylative aryl allylation
Authors: Daley Ryan A. , Topczewski Joseph J.
Published: August 2018

We describe a palladium catalyzed salt-free decarboxylative aryl allylation of free benzoic acids with allyl tert-butyl-carbonates.
Design of binary polymer brushes with tuneable functionality
Authors: Bos Inge , Merlitz Holger , Rosenthal Alice , Uhlmann Petra , Sommer Jens-Uwe
Published: August 2018

Using coarse grained molecular dynamics simulations, we study how functionalized binary brushes may be used to create surfaces whose functionality can be tuned.
Formation of core/corona nanoparticles with interpolyelectrolyte complex cores in aqueous solution: insight into chain dynamics in the complex from fluorescence quenching
Authors: Murmiliuk Anastasiia , Matějíček Pavel , Filippov Sergey K. , Janata Miroslav , Šlouf Miroslav , Pispas Stergios , Štěpánek Miroslav
Published: August 2018

Poly[3,5-bis(trimethylammoniummethyl)-4-hydroxystyrene iodide]-block-poly(ethylene oxide) quenches fluorescence of umbelliferone-labeled poly(methacrylic acid).
Low‐complexity user selection method in 3D MU‐MIMO systems
Authors: Hu Mengshi , Chang Yongyu , Xiong Yi , Zeng Tianyi
Published: August 2018

The user selection method based on chordal distance is widely used in multiuser multiple‐input multiple‐output (MU‐MIMO) systems with block diagonalisation. It has throughput close to the capacity based method with low complexity. In this Letter, a user selection method with higher throughput and much lower complexity is proposed. To investigate the performance in a more practical channel scenario, 3D MIMO channels are used in simulations. Compared with existing user selection algorithms, the proposed method achieves good throughput performance and the lowest complexity order.
Spurious stopband improvement of dual‐mode dielectric resonator filters using T‐shaped coupling probe
Authors: Luhaib Saad W.O. , Somjit Nutapong , Hunter Ian C.
Published: August 2018

This work presents a new design technique for dual‐mode dielectric‐loaded resonator filter operating at 2.18 GHz by using T‐shape coupling probe. A cylindrical dielectric puck is suspended in the middle of metallic cavity and short‐circuited on the side walls. Four vertically etched‐slots through the dielectric puck from the top to the base of the ceramic puck offer a high unloaded quality factor of 4300 at the fundamental mode and allows the T‐shape coupling to be located close to the centre of the dielectric puck. The size reduction ratio in this resonator was 11% compared with air‐filled coaxial resonator. Fourth‐poles Chebyshev bandpass filter with planar configuration was designed and implemented by employing two dielectric‐loaded cavities. The experimental results show that the spurious‐free window of ∼820 MHz from the fundamental frequency of 2.18 GHz and the operational bandwidth of 77 MHz were achieved.
A type III radio burst automatic analysis system and statistic results for a half solar cycle with Nançay Decameter Array data
Authors: Zhang P. J. , Wang C. B. , Ye L.
Published: August 2018

Aims. We design an event recognition-analysis system that can automatically detect solar type III radio burst and can mine information of the burst from the dynamic spectra observed by Nançay Decameter Array (NDA). We investigate the frequency drift rate of type III bursts and the speed of electron beams responsible for the generation of the bursts.

Methods. Several computer vision methods are used in this automatic analysis system. The Hough transform is performed to recognize the line segment associated with type III bursts in the dynamic spectra. A modified active contour model is used to track the backbone of the burst and estimate the frequency drift rate at different frequency channels. We run this system on the NDA data from 2012 to 2017, and give a statistical survey of the event number distribution, the starting and stopping frequencies of bursts, the frequency dependence of the drift rate, and the exciter speed using three corona density models.

Results. The median value of the average frequency drift rates is about 6.94 MHz s−1 for 1389 simple well-isolated type III bursts detected in the frequency range 10–80 MHz of NDA observation. The frequency drift rate changes with frequency as d f/dt = −0.0672 f1.23 from a least-squares fitting. The average exciter speed is about 0.2c based the density models. We do not find any significant dependence of the drift rate and the exciter speed on the solar activity cycle.
Through the magnifying glass: ALMA acute viewing of the intricate nebular architecture of OH 231.8+4.2
Authors: Sánchez Contreras C. , Alcolea J. , Bujarrabal V. , Castro-Carrizo A. , Velilla Prieto L. , Santander-García M. , Quintana-Lacaci G. , Cernicharo J.
Published: August 2018

We present continuum and molecular line emission ALMA observations of OH 231.8+4.2, a well studied bipolar nebula around an asymptotic giant branch (AGB) star. The high-angular resolution (~0.′′2–0.′′3) and sensitivity of our ALMA maps provide the most detailed and accurate description of the overall nebular structure and kinematics of this object to date. We have identified a number of outflow components previously unknown. Species studied in this work include 12CO, 13CO, CS, SO, SO2, OCS, SiO, SiS, H3O+, Na37Cl, and CH3OH. The molecules Na37Cl and CH3OH are first detections in OH 231.8+4.2, with CH3OH being also a first detection in an AGB star. Our ALMA maps bring to light the totally unexpected position of the mass-losing AGB star (QX Pup) relative to the large-scale outflow. QX Pup is enshrouded within a compact (≲60 AU) parcel of dust and gas (clump S) in expansion (Vexp ~ 5–7 km s−1) that is displaced by ~ 0.′′6 to the south of the dense equatorial region (or waist) where the bipolar lobes join. Our SiO maps disclose a compact bipolar outflow that emerges from QX Pup’s vicinity. This outflow is oriented similarly to the large-scale nebula but the expansion velocities are about ten times lower (Vexp ≲ 35 km s−1). We deduce short kinematical ages for the SiO outflow, ranging from ~50–80 yr, in regions within ~150 AU, to ~400–500 yr at the lobe tips (~3500 AU). Adjacent to the SiO outflow, we identify a small-scale hourglass-shaped structure (mini-hourglass) that is probably made of compressed ambient material formed as the SiO outflow penetrates the dense, central regions of the nebula. The lobes and the equatorial waist of the mini-hourglass are both radially expanding with a constant velocity gradient (Vexp ∝ r). The mini-waist is characterized by extremely low velocities, down to ~1 km s−1 at ~150 AU, which tentatively suggest the presence of a stable structure. The spatio-kinematics of the large-scale, high-velocity lobes (HV lobes), and the dense equatorial waist (large waist) known from previous works are now precisely determined, indicating that both were shaped nearly simultaneously about ~800–900 yr ago. We report the discovery of two large (~8′′ × 6′′), faint bubble-like structures (fish bowls) surrounding the central parts of the nebula. These are relatively old structures, although probably slightly (~100–200 yr) younger than the large waist and the HV lobes. We discuss the series of events that may have resulted in the complex array of nebular components found in OH 231.8+4.2 as well as the properties and locus of the central binary system. The presence of ≲80 yr bipolar ejections indicate that the collimated fast wind engine is still active at the core of this outstanding object.
Digital competences of parents in the matter of electronic threats
Authors: Tomczyk Łukasz
Published: August 2018

Digital competences have become one of basic skills in XXI century. Due to the ability to digitally access data and manage information and use electronic services, the quality of life has improved, and there has been an improvement in many activities connected with communication, shopping, ticket booking and a range of other repetitive activities. However, there is an additional layer overlapping the technical skills, which layer is connected with understanding the threats deriving from common availability of ICT. The aim of this paper is a diagnosis of digital competences level of parents in the matter of safe use of electronic media. To do this, quantitative research have been prepared, which measure six crucial areas of internet threats: ability to evaluate reliability of information on Internet, safety in the matter of contact with other users, image protection on Internet, knowledge concerning copyrights, knowledge concerning cyber-bullying mechanisms, proper performance of financial operations. The weakest areas of digital literacy seem to be: copyright protection and issues concerning contact with other users. The research was realized with the use of a competence test. The analysis was carried out on 260 parents of students attending secondary schools in the second half of 2016.
Study regarding the use of movement games in order to improve coordination abilities in primary school pupils
Authors: Laurentiu-Gabriel Talaghir , Evgeny Cherepov
Published: August 2018

The purpose of the research, performed during the school year 2015 – 2016, was to observe the role of movement games during the PE class, carried out with primary school pupils. The aim of the present paper is to present the way in which we influenced the coordination skill manifestation indicators so that they are suited to the pupils’ age possibilities. The games were combined and we used two games during each practical PE class. In order to achieve this, we changed the working method at the structure level of the lesson. Thus, in the second part of the lesson, which includes types of walking and running in order to engage the body in the effort, we used movement games. As an assessment test, we used the trial “Throw at a vertical target”. This trial tests the coordination skill (the dexterity) within the school assessment system. The results obtained in the trials were statistically processed by means of the SPSS 23.0 program. The results indicated a significant progress for the group of girls and an insignificant progress for the groups of boys.
A linguistic evaluation of the preface of “Mikyasu’l-Lisan Kıstasu’l-Beyan” by Abdurrahman Fevzi Efendi
Authors: Karabacak Esra
Published: August 2018

Mikyasü‘l lisan Kıstasül-beyan, which is the only known work of Abdurrahman Fevzi, is accepted by researchers as the first Turkish grammar book of Tanzimat based on the date when its writing began (1846) and its author is given the title of the first Turkish grammarian; however, considering its completion (1861) and publication dates (1881), the first printed grammar is Medhal-i Kavîd (1851) which was co-authored by Keçecizade Mehmed Fuad and Ahmed Cevdet Pasha that played a critical role as a school textbook for half a century. Unprepared and uneducated in Turkish grammar writing, first period Tanzimat intellectuals lacked a national system which could set an example of the work that they needed in education and teaching and had passed through madrasah training; thus, grammar method developed for Classical Arabic which they knew best was the first example of their works. This pattern was applied in Müyessiretü‘l Ulûm (1530) which was the first Turkish grammar book in Anatolian land, but in terms of its structure and origins, this effort handled Turkish from the perspective of a different language, as a result of which it did not yield any results. In the 300 years that passed thereafter, a new step was not taken in this area. Thus, the fact that Bergamalı Kadri’s work has only a few copies is an indicator that it failed to create an impact in the world of scholarship. The compiled Turkish grammars of 19th century show similarities with the method of the first grammar written in Anatolian land previously. Those who came to the world of scholarship from madrasah with Arabic “iştikak” (etymology) knowledge performed conceptualizations based on this infrastructure. The operation system brought knowledge of patterns to the forefront. Right thereafter the results of the first contacts with the West would show itself in the field of Turkish grammar science but this time the operation of language would drift to a wrong course and French grammar method would gain dominance. In this context, necessary examinations will be made in line with the collected data and the results will be discussed within the literature in the light of the obtained findings.
George Z. F. Bereday (Zygmunt Fijałkowski) and his comparative method in educational research
Authors: Wojniak Justyna
Published: August 2018

The paper concerns George Bereday’s (Zygmunt Fijałkowski - 1920-1983) scientific activities and his contribution to the development of comparative education as a scientific discipline. Bereday was a researcher of Polish origin and a professor of Columbia University. His works concern methodological aspects of comparative research in education, and his key study is entitled Comparative Method in Education. The main assumption of this method is to analyze educational facts in a broad social and political context. Bereday also examined the education system and policy in the Soviet Union, as well as in the United States and Japan. An important issue of his interest was mass education, including that on a university level, from the point of view of American and European experiences.
Exercise-Loaded Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Lymphangiography for Diagnosing Lymphedema
Authors: Shinaoka Akira , Yamada Kiyoshi , Kimata Yoshihiro , Matsumoto Kumiko
Published: August 2018

Background Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence lymphography (ICGLG) that can visualize the lymphatic vessel and its flow noninvasively and dynamically was developed in 2007. It is frequently used to observe the function and pathway of the lymphatic vessels. ICGLG is simple and easy to perform, and it is useful for understanding the condition of the lymphatic system in real time. However, its protocol is not standardized. In addition, the lymphatic flow is enhanced by an exercise load such as walking. Till now, there is no report of exercise-loaded ICGLG. Therefore, we aimed to shorten the examination time and establish a standard ICGLG protocol.

Methods We examined 63 patients (126 lower limbs) who visited our clinic for lower extremity edema. We observed detailed images of exercise-loaded ICGLG and examined the changes in findings over time in affected legs classified according to the International Society of Lymphedema. After ICG was injected, the participants exercised for 30 minutes. We observed the farthest proximal point where any ICG could be observed and the appearance of dermal backflow (DB), which is a specific finding of lymphedema, every 5 minutes.

Results The proximal migration speed of ICG tended to slow as the disease stage worsened. For all disease stages, after 20 minutes of exercise, the DB appearance rate did not change further. The rates were 0% for legs with stage 0 lymphedema, 50% for legs with stage 1 lymphedema, and 100% for legs with stages 2a and 2b lymphedema.

Conclusion The appropriate exercise duration after ICG injection is 20 minutes. ICGLG is useful for screening for lymphedema.
Dynamical structure of entangled polymers simulated under shear flow
Authors: Korolkovas Airidas , Gutfreund Philipp , Wolff Max
Published: August 2018

The non-linear response of entangled polymers to shear flow is complicated. Its current understanding is framed mainly as a rheological description in terms of the complex viscosity. However, the full picture requires an assessment of the dynamical structure of individual polymer chains which give rise to the macroscopic observables. Here we shed new light on this problem, using a computer simulation based on a blob model, extended to describe shear flow in polymer melts and semi-dilute solutions. We examine the diffusion and the intermediate scattering spectra during a steady shear flow. The relaxation dynamics are found to speed up along the flow direction, but slow down along the shear gradient direction. The third axis, vorticity, shows a slowdown at the short scale of a tube, but reaches a net speedup at the large scale of the chain radius of gyration.
The role of vacancies in electric field mediated graphene oxide reduction
Authors: Mai Han Lin , Cui Xiang-Yuan , Stampfl Catherine , Ringer Simon P.
Published: August 2018

Electric fields are regarded as a promising means of graphene oxide reduction, but previous studies have only focused on pristine graphene. Here, based on first principles density functional theory calculations, we report on electric field mediated reduction of neutral and charged O and hydroxyl groups from both pristine and defective graphene sheets. The critical electric field strengths for different species are determined in facilitating a progressive and selective graphene oxide reduction. Our results demonstrate that the presence of vacancy defects significantly inhibits the effectiveness of electric fields as a means of reduction of O and OH functionals, due to the complexities that arise between the functional group and vacancy edge atoms in the presence of an applied electric field.
Knowledge infrastructure and safe operating spaces in social–ecological systems
Authors: Anderies John M. , Mathias Jean-Denis , Janssen Marco A.
Published: August 2018

Maintaining safe operating spaces for exploited natural systems in the face of uncertainty is a key sustainability challenge. This challenge can be viewed as a problem in which human society must navigate in a limited space of acceptable futures in which humans enjoy sufficient well-being and avoid crossing planetary boundaries. A critical obstacle is the nature of society as a controller with endogenous dynamics affected by knowledge, values, and decision-making fallacies. We outline an approach for analyzing the role of knowledge infrastructure in maintaining safe operating spaces. Using a classic natural resource problem as an illustration, we find that a small safe operating space exists that is insensitive to the type of policy implementation, while in general, a larger safe operating space exists which is dependent on the implementation of the “right” policy. Our analysis suggests the importance of considering societal response dynamics to varying policy instruments in defining the shape of safe operating spaces.
Examining the influence of grip type on wrist and club head kinematics during the golf swing: Benefits of a local co‐ordinate system
Authors: Carson Howie J. , Richards Jim , Mazuquin Bruno
Published: August 2018

Wrist movements have been identified as an important factor in producing a successful golf swing, with their complex motion influencing both club head velocity and orientation. However, a detailed analysis of wrist angles is lacking in the literature. The purpose of this study was to determine kinematics across wrists and club head characteristics during the golf swing under weak, neutral and strong grip conditions. Twelve professional male golfers executed 24 shots using a driver under three grip conditions. A six degrees of freedom analysis of the hand with respect to the distal forearm was performed using a 10‐camera three‐dimensional motion capture system. Differences in joint angles were explored using repeated measures ANOVAs at key swing events (onset, top of backswing and impact), in addition club head velocity and clubface angle at impact were also explored. Main findings revealed significant differences in flexion/extension and internal/external rotation for both wrists at all swing events, whereas fewer significant interactions were found in ulnar/radial deviation across grips for both wrists at all events. Clubface angle only differed significantly between the weak and the strong and neural grips, presenting a more ‘open’ clubface to the intended hitting direction. This study is the first to explore tri‐planar wrist movement and the effect of different grips, such analysis has implications for coaching knowledge and practice and should inform future research into different aspects of skill, technique analysis and may inform injury mechanisms/prevention.
A Novel Surgical Technique for Management of Giant Central Calcified Thoracic Disk Herniations: A Dual Corridor Method Involving Tubular Transthoracic/Retropleural Approach Followed by a Posterior Transdural Diskectomy
Authors: Lowe Stephen R , Alshareef Mohammed A , Kellogg Ryan T , Eriksson Evert A , Kalhorn Stephen P
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Thoracic disk herniations (TDHs) represent only 0.15% to 1.8% of surgically managed disk herniations but have posed a particular challenge to spine surgeons. Numerous surgical approaches have been cited in the literature with varying degrees of success, technical complexity, and complication profiles.

OBJECTIVE

To report a case of a combined lateral retropleural and dorsal transdural approach for complex thoracic discectomy.

METHODS

In this report, we describe a combined lateral/retropleural and posterior transdural approach for a patient with a giant calcified TDH that was not amenable to safe removal using a single approach.

RESULTS

In complex situations such as this, a dual corridor approach allows for improved visualization and maximal resection opportunity and opens up yet another option to address recalcitrant TDH.

CONCLUSION

The staged dual corridor approach is safe and represents a further surgical option for extremely difficult TDH.
Clinical Implications of Gluteal Fat Graft Migration: A Dynamic Anatomical Study
Authors: Del Vecchio Daniel A. , Villanueva Nathaniel L. , Mohan Raja , Johnson Bret , Wan Dinah , Venkataram Aniketh , Rohrich Rod J.
Published: August 2018

Background:

The intraoperative mortality and overall complication rate for gluteal augmentation with fat transplantation is unacceptably high. The current controversy among experts regarding safety is whether fat should be placed within the gluteus muscle or limited to only the subcutaneous space. The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that under certain pressures, fat injected within the gluteal muscle can actually migrate out of the muscle and into a deeper plane containing critical neurovascular structures, by means of the process of deep intramuscular migration.

Methods:

A total of eight human cadaver dissections were performed. Four hemibuttocks were selected for intramuscular fat injection. The patterns of subfascial fat migration were evaluated in three of these hemibuttocks by direct visual inspection and in one hemibuttock by endoscopic evaluation. Four other hemibuttocks were selected for subcutaneous or suprafascial fat injection.

Results:

Proxy fat was found to migrate through the muscle and into the deep submuscular space with each intramuscular injection. With subcutaneous injection, no proxy fat was found during dissection in the intramuscular septae or submuscular space.

Conclusions:

The intramuscular insertion of fat, which up to this point has been considered reasonable to perform in the superficial muscle and even recommended in the literature, is now deemed to be an inexact and risky surgical technique. This technique, because of the migratory nature of injected fat, should be avoided from further use in fat transplantation to the gluteal region.
Understanding sex differences in the regulation of cancer-induced muscle wasting
Authors: Montalvo Ryan N. , Counts Brittany R. , Carson James A.
Published: August 2018

Purpose of review

We highlight evidence for sexual dimorphism in preclinical and clinical studies investigating the cause and treatment of cancer cachexia.

Recent findings

Cancer cachexia is unintended bodyweight loss occurring with cancer, and skeletal muscle wasting is a critical predictor of negative outcomes in the cancer patient. Skeletal muscle exhibits sexual dimorphism in fiber type, function, and regeneration capacity. Sex differences have been implicated in skeletal muscle metabolism, mitochondrial function, immune response to injury, and myogenic stem cell regulation. All of these processes have the potential to be involved in cancer-induced muscle wasting. Unfortunately, the vast majority of published studies examining cancer cachexia in preclinical models or cancer patients either have not accounted for sex in their design or have exclusively studied males. Preclinical studies have established that ovarian function and estradiol can affect skeletal muscle function, metabolism and mass; ovarian function has also been implicated in the sensitivity of circulating inflammatory cytokines and the progression of cachexia.

Females and males have unique characteristics that effect skeletal muscle's microenvironment and intrinsic signaling. These differences provide a strong rationale for distinct causes for cancer cachexia development and treatment in males and females.
Influence of the windlass mechanism on arch-spring mechanics during dynamic foot arch deformation
Authors: Welte Lauren , Kelly Luke A. , Lichtwark Glen A. , Rainbow Michael J.
Published: August 2018

The function of the human foot is described dichotomously as a compliant structure during mid-stance and a stiff lever during push-off. The arch-spring and the windlass mechanisms, respectively, describe each of these behaviours; however, their interaction has not been quantified to date. We hypothesized that by engaging the windlass mechanism with metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) dorsiflexion, we would observe stiffening of the arch and reduced energy absorption and dissipation during dynamic compressions of the foot. Using a custom apparatus, the MTPJ angle was fixed at 30 degrees of plantarflexion, neutral or 30 degrees of dorsiflexion for nine participants, with the shank positioned similarly to the end of mid-stance. The arch was compressed at two speeds, with the faster speed comparable to walking around 1.5 m s
−1
. Six cameras captured the compression and elongation of the arch, along with other kinematic variables, synchronously with the ground reaction force. Combining these measures, we computed the energy absorbed, returned and dissipated in the arch. Contrary to our hypothesis, when the windlass mechanism was engaged, the arch elongated more, and absorbed and dissipated more energy than when it was not engaged. This engagement of the windlass altered the rotational axis of the mid-foot, which probably oriented the arch-spanning structures closer to their resting length, increasing their compliance. This study provides novel evidence for an interplay between the windlass and arch-spring mechanisms that aids in regulation of energy storage within the foot.
Widespread use of emersion and cutaneous ammonia excretion in Aplocheiloid killifishes
Authors: Livingston Michael D. , Bhargav Vikram V. , Turko Andy J. , Wilson Jonathan M. , Wright Patricia A.
Published: August 2018

The invasion of land required amphibious fishes to evolve new strategies to avoid toxic ammonia accumulation in the absence of water flow over the gills. We investigated amphibious behaviour and nitrogen excretion strategies in six phylogenetically diverse Aplocheiloid killifishes (Anablepsoides hartii, Cynodonichthys hildebrandi, Rivulus cylindraceus,Kryptolebias marmoratus, Fundulopanchax gardneri, andAplocheilus lineatus) in order to determine if a common strategy evolved.All species voluntarily emersed (left water) over several days, and also in response to environmental stressors (low O2, high temperature). All species were ammoniotelic in water and released gaseous ammonia (NH3volatilization) during air exposure as the primary route for nitrogen excretion. Metabolic depression, urea synthesis, and/or ammonia accumulation during air exposure were not common strategies used by these species. Immunostaining revealed the presence of ammonia-transporting Rhesus proteins (Rhcg1 and Rhcg2) in the skin of all six species, indicating a shared mechanism for ammonia volatilization. We also found Rhcg in the skin of several other fully aquatic fishes, implying that cutaneous ammonia excretion is not exclusive to amphibious fishes. Overall, our results demonstrate that similar nitrogen excretion strategies while out of water were used by all killifish species tested; possibly the result of shared ancestral amphibious traits, phenotypic convergence, or a combination of both.
Structural basis and mechanism of the unfolding-induced activation of an acid response chaperone HdeA
Authors: Yu Xing-Chi , Hu Yunfei , Ding Jienv , Li Hongwei , Jin Changwen
Published: August 2018

The role of protein structural disorder in biological functions is gaining increasing interests in the past decade. The bacterial acid-resistant chaperone HdeA belongs to a group of “conditionally disordered” protein that is activated via an order-to-disorder transition. However, the mechanism for unfolding-induced activation remains unclear due to the lack of experimental information on the unfolded state conformation and the chaperone-client interactions. Here we use advanced solution NMR methods to characterize the activated state conformation of HdeA under acidic condition and identify the client binding sites. The activated HdeA becomes largely disordered and exposes two essential hydrophobic patches of residues for client interactions. The pH-dependent chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) result identifies three acid-sensitive regions that act as structural locks during the activation process, revealing a multi-step activation mechanism of HdeA chaperone function at atomic level. The results highlight the role of protein disorder in chaperone function and the self-inhibitory role of ordered structures under non-stress conditions, offering new insights for further understanding the protein structure-function paradigm.
Convergent temperature representations in artificial and biological neural networks
Authors: Haesemeyer Martin , Schier Alexander F , Engert Florian
Published: August 2018

While discoveries in biological neural networks (BNN) shaped artificial neural networks (ANN) it is unclear if representations and algorithms are shared between ANNs and BNNs performing similar tasks. Here, we designed and trained an ANN to perform heat gradient navigation and found striking similarities in computation and heat representation to a known zebrafish BNN. This included shared ON and OFF type representations of absolute temperature and rates of change. Importantly, ANN function critically relied on zebrafish like units. We could furthermore use the accessibility of the ANN to discover a new temperature responsive cell type in the zebrafish cerebellum. Finally, our approach generalized since training the same ANN constrained by the C. elegans motor repertoire resulted in distinct neural representations matching features observed in the worm. Together, these results emphasize convergence of ANNs and BNNs on canonical representations and that ANNs form a powerful tool to understand their biological counterparts.
Mycobacterium ulceransin Mosquitoes and March flies captured from endemic areas of Northern Queensland, Australia
Authors: Singh Avishek , McBride William John Hannan , Govan Brenda , Pearson Mark , Ritchie Scott A.
Published: August 2018

Mycobacterium ulceransis the causative agent of Buruli ulcer (BU). This nontuberculous mycobacterial infection has been reported in over 33 countries worldwide. In Australia, the majority of cases of BU have been recorded in coastal Victoria and the Mossman-Daintree areas of north Queensland. Mosquitoes have been postulated as a vector ofM. ulceransin Victoria, however the specific mode of transmission of this disease is still far from being well understood. In the current study, we trapped and analysed 16,900 (allocated to 845 pools) mosquitoes and 296 March flies from the endemic areas of north Queensland to examine for the presence ofM. ulceransDNA by polymerase chain reaction. Seven of 845 pools of mosquitoes were positive on screening using the IS2404 PCR target but only one pool was positive for presence ofM. ulceransafter confirmatory testing. None of the March fly samples were positive for the presence ofM. ulcerans.M. ulceranswas detected on proboscises of deliberately exposed mosquitoes.

Author Summary

The causative agent of Buruli ulcer is Mycobacterium ulcerans. This destructive skin disease is characterized by extensive and painless necrosis of skin and underlying tissues usually on extremities of body due to production of toxin named mycolactone. The disease is prevalent in Africa and coastal Australia. The exact mode of transmission and potential environmental reservoir for the pathogen still remain obscure. Aquatic and biting insects have been identified as important niche in transmission and maintenance of pathogen in the environment. In this study we screened mosquitoes and march flies captured from endemic areas of northern Queensland for the presence ofM. ulcerans.In addition, we conducted artificial blood feeding experiment to identify the role of mosquitoes in transmission of this pathogen. We found one pool of mosquito out of 845 pools positive forM. ulceransand none of the March fly samples were positive. This could indicate a low burden of the bacteria in the environment coinciding with a comparatively low number of human cases ofM. ulceransinfection seen during the trapping period of the study. Evidence to support mechanical transmission via mosquito proboscises was found.
Localisation and hypersecretion of Nerve Growth Factor in breast Phyllodes tumours: evidence from a preliminary study
Authors: Kumar Ashutosh , Raza Khursheed , Nag Tapas C. , Srivastava Anurag , Sehgal Ritu
Published: August 2018

Background

The pathophysiology of the breast phyllodes tumours is uncertain. Currently, wide surgical removal is the only available treatment option. The histopathological diagnosis of phyllodes tumours is often confused with that of fibroadenomas due to a striking histological resemblance; hence a distinctive biomarker for this tumour type is warranted.

Material & Methods

Fresh human breast tissue was obtained from surgically excised breast phyllodes and fibroadenoma tumours (test, 2 cases each), breast cancer (positive control, 2 cases) and normal breast tissue (negative control, 1 case). Immunohistochemistry was performed for the detection of nerve growth factor (NGF) on frozen sections of the test and control tissues fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde, using the indirect streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase complex method. Sandwich ELISA on tissue homogenates of the same test and control cases was also performed to validate the immunohistochemical findings.

Results

A marked difference in NGF expression was detected in phyllodes tumours compared to fibroadenomas. The maximum NGF expression was observed in phyllodes tissue followed by cancer tissue, and the least expression in fibroadenomas (3-5 times less than in phyllodes; comparable with normal breast tissue).

Conclusion

NGF is known for its growth inducing potential in breast cancer, but its secretion by a benign breast tumour is not known in literature. This study reports abundant NGF secretion by breast phyllodes, raising the possibility of its potential role in tumour pathogenesis and progression that can be exploited therapeutically in future. We also propose that NGF may be used as a distinct biomarker of phyllodes tumours, for differentiating them from fibroadenomas during histopathology.
The Warburg Effect and lactate signaling augment Fgf signaling to promote sensory-neural development in the otic vesicle
Authors: Kantarci Husniye , Gou Yunzi , Riley Bruce B.
Published: August 2018

Recent studies indicate that many developing tissues modify glycolysis to favor lactate synthesis, but how this promotes development is unclear. Using forward and reverse genetics in zebrafish, we show that disrupting the glycolytic genephosphoglycerate kinase-1(pgk1) impairs Fgf-dependent development of hair cells and neurons in the otic vesicle and other neurons in the CNS/PNS. Focusing on the otic vesicle, we found that Fgf signaling underperforms inpgk1-/- mutants even when Fgf is transiently overexpressed. Wild-type embryos treated with drugs that block synthesis or secretion of lactate mimic thepgk1-/- phenotype, whereaspgk1-/- mutants are rescued by treatment with exogenous lactate. Lactate treatment of wild-type embryos elevates expression of Etv5b/Erm even when Fgf signaling is blocked. Thus, by raising steady-state levels of Etv5b (a critical effector of the Fgf pathway), lactate renders cells more responsive to dynamic changes in Fgf signaling required by many developing tissues.
Nell2 regulates the contralateral-versus-ipsilateral visual projection as a layer-specific positional cue
Authors: Nakamoto Chizu , Durward Elaine , Horie Masato , Nakamoto Masaru
Published: August 2018

SUMMARY STATEMENT

Nell2 is an ipsilateral layer-specific axon guidance cue in the visual thalamus and contributes to establishment of the eye-specific retinogeniculate projection by specifically inhibiting contralateral retinal axons.

In mammals with binocular vision, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons from each eye project to eye-specific layers in the contralateral and ipsilateral dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN). Although layer-specific axon guidance cues that discriminate contralateral and ipsilateral RGC axons have long been postulated as a key mechanism for development of the eye-specificretinogeniculate projection, the molecular nature of such cues has remained elusive. Here we show that the extracellular glycoprotein Nell2 (also known as Nel) is expressed in the dorsomedial region of the dLGN, which corresponds to the layer receiving ipsilateral RGC axons. In Nell2 mutant mice, contralateral RGC axons invaded the ipsilateral layer of the dLGN, and ipsilateral axons terminated in partially fragmented patches, forming a mosaic pattern of contralateral and ipsilateral axon termination zones. In vitro, Nell2 exerted inhibitory effects on contralateral, but not ipsilateral, RGC axons. These results provide evidence that Nell2 acts as a layer-specific positional label in the dLGN that discriminates contralateral and ipsilateral RGC axons, and that it plays essential roles in establishment of the eye-specific projection patterns in the retinogeniculate system.