bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modified Harmonic Balance Method for Nonlinear Aeroelastic Analysis of Two Degree-of-Freedom Airfoils in Supersonic Flow
Authors: Niu Yaobin , Wang Zhongwei
Published: November 2017

In this paper, a new modified harmonic balance method is presented for the nonlinear aeroelastic analysis of two degree-of-freedom airfoils. Using this method, the nonlinear problem is first translated into a minimization problem, and the Particle Swarm Optimization which has high calculation efficiency is adopted to solve the problem. The proposed method is used to solve the nonlinear aeroelastic behavior of supersonic airfoil, with the unsteady aerodynamic load evaluated by the piston theory. Three examples of nonlinear aeroelasticity with significantly different coefficients are prepared, in which the frequencies and amplitudes of the limit cycles are obtained. The results show that the present current method is computationally more efficient.
Noble Implementation of Motor Driver with All Programmable SoC for Humanoid Robot or Industrial Device
Authors: Huang LinYun , Lee Young-Pil , Moon Yong-Seon , Bae Young-Chul
Published: November 2017

Currently, as the requirements for simple implementations in the motor control technologies increase, System-on-Chip (SoC) device such as Zynq All Programmable SoC was devised to meet those requirements. Because this CPU and FPGA can be assembled into one SoC device, we can consolidate motor-control functions and additional processing tasks into a single SoC device. The control algorithms, networking and other tasks, are off-loaded to the programmable logic that can include multiple control cores and multiple control system. This SoC system with a single chip can allow the hardware design with a single chip, hence, we can implement to control the motor to be simpler, more reliable, and less expensive. In this paper, in order to implement motor controller, we apply latest All Programmable SoC technologies for humanoid robot or industrial device that is integrated with FPGA technologies and embedded processor technologies. We also propose the structure of motor controller that decentralizes the function of motor driver from previous typical motor driver into FPGA and level of embedded processor by using All Programmable SoC for humanoid robot or industrial device. We verify the possibilities of applying the novel implemented motor controller in Zynq EPP (Extensible Processing Platform) which is one kind of All Programmable SoC made by Xilinx. To do this, we perform velocity control and position control with digital PI controller on the BLDC motor.
V2O3 nanofoam@activated carbon composites as electrode materials of supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Xun , Bu Zhonglin , Xu Rui , Xie Bing , Li Hong-Yi
Published: November 2017

Electrode materials with high performance and low cost are demanding in supercapacitor applications. Novel V2O3 nanofoam@activated carbon composites have been prepared simply and cost-efficiently. Due to the mesoporous structure and high specific surface of V2O3 nanofoam and the good electric conductivity of activated carbon, the obtained composites exhibit an obviously improved specific capacitance as high as 185[Formula: see text]F/g, which overpasses bulk V2O3 (119[Formula: see text]F/g) and activated carbon (113[Formula: see text]F/g). The rate capability of V2O3 nanofoam@activated carbon composites has also been improved, owing to the increased electron transport accelerated by the activated carbon and the fast electrolyte ion intercalation/deintercalation facilitated by mesopores of V2O3 nanofoam. The composites retain 56% of initial specific capacitance when the current density increases from 0.05[Formula: see text]A/g to 1.0[Formula: see text]A/g. Therefore, the obtained V2O3 nanofoam@activated carbon composites are low-cost electrode materials with obviously improved electrochemical performance, which are idea for supercapacitor application.
Cyber Physical System (CPS)-Based Industry 4.0: A Survey
Authors: Lu Yang
Published: November 2017

Cyber Physical System (CPS) has provided an outstanding foundation to build advanced industrial systems and applications by integrating innovative functionalities through Internet of Things (IoT) and Web of Things (WoB) to enable connection of the operations of the physical reality with computing and communication infrastructures. A wide range of industrial CPS-based applications have been developed and deployed in Industry 4.0. In order to understand the development of CPS in Industry 4.0, this paper reviews the current research of CPS, key enabling technologies, major CPS applications in industries, and identifies research trends and challenges. A main contribution of this review paper is that it summarizes the current state-of-the-art CPS in Industry 4.0 from Web of Science (WoS) database (including 595 articles) and proposes a potential framework of CPS systematically.
Arid hypogene karst in a multi-aquifer system: hydrogeology and speleogenesis of Ashalim Cave, Negev Desert, Israel
Authors: Frumkin Amos , Langford Boaz
Published: November 2017

Ashalim maze cave, and neighbouring caves in the NW Negev Desert, Israel demonstrate hypogene karst features. These features are shown to have developed as a result of the mixing of two types of groundwater flowing in opposite directions within two tiers of Cretaceous rock aquifers. The stable isotope composition indicates that the lower Kurnub sandstone aquifer was recharged over far-field Nubian Sandstone outcrops in the vicinity of the Precambrian basement outcrops of the Sinai Desert, which belongs to the Afro-Arabian dome. The water flows northward and rises into the Judea carbonate aquifer through deep faults. A similar hydrogeological system is inferred for the speleogenetic period of Ashalim Cave. Dewatering of the cave occurred in the Pliocene due to regional uplift. This is indicated by the first vadose speleothems, dated to the late Pliocene (3.1 Ma). This was followed by surface denudation, which breached the cave and formed the present entrance.
What will be the future of the giant gypsum crystals of Naica mine?
Authors: Forti Paolo
Published: November 2017

The mine caves of Naica (Chihuahua, Mexico) are famous because they host large gypsum crystals. Mine works intersected new caves hosting the largest crystals in the world in the year 2000. From 2006 these caves became the object of a multidisciplinary research project with the goal of inferring their ages, the boundary conditions for their formation and the mechanisms inducing their development. Several other scientific aspects were also considered, including palynology, mineralogy, microbiology, physiology, hydrogeology and astrobiology. From 2006 to 2009, scientists and explorers tried to ensure the complete documentation of these natural wonders because they were expected to be accessible for only a few years. As a result of their location
c.
160 m below the natural groundwater level, they were predicted to be flooded with thermal water as soon as dewatering of the mine ceased. This occurred at the end of 2015, so that the lower part of the mine is already submerged and in the near future the giant crystal caves will also disappear. Theoretically, it is still possible to maintain these incredible wonders for future generations, but this seems highly unlikely. Soon the crystals will be submerged below
c.
150 m of hot water, restarting their incredible slow growth.
Process-Based Models of Phenology for Plants and Animals
Authors: Chuine Isabelle , Régnière Jacques
Published: November 2017

Phenology is a key aspect of plant and animal life strategies that determines the ability to capture seasonally variable resources. It defines the season and duration of growth and reproduction and paces ecological interactions and ecosystem functions. Phenology models have become a key component of models in agronomy, forestry, ecology, and biogeosciences. Plant and animal process-based phenology models have taken different paths that have so far not crossed. Yet, they share many features because plant and animal annual cycles also share many characteristics, from their stepwise progression, including a resting period, to their dependence on similar environmental factors. We review the strengths and shortcomings of these models and the divergences in modeling approaches for plants and animals, which are mostly due to specificities of the questions they tackle. Finally, we discuss the most promising avenues and the challenges phenology modeling needs to address in the upcoming years.
AngioVac System Used for Vegetation Debulking in a Patient with Tricuspid Valve Endocarditis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Abubakar Hossam , Rashed Ahmed , Subahi Ahmed , Yassin Ahmed S. , Shokr Mohamed , Elder Mahir
Published: November 2017

AngioVac is a vacuum-based device approved in 2014 for percutaneous removal of undesirable materials from the intravascular system. Although numerous reports exist with regard to the use of the AngioVac device in aspiration of iliocaval, pulmonary, upper extremity, and right-sided heart chamber thrombi, very few data are present demonstrating its use in treatment of right-sided endocarditis. In this case report, we describe the novel device used in debulking a large right-sided tricuspid valve vegetation reducing the occurrence of septic embolisation and enhancing the efficacy of antibiotics in clearance of bloodstream infection. Further research is needed in larger RSIE patient populations to confirm the benefits and the potential of improved outcomes associated with the AngioVac device as well as identify its potential complications.
Cytotoxic Effect on Human Myeloma Cells and Leukemic Cells by theAgaricus blazeiMurill Based Mushroom Extract, Andosan™
Authors: Tangen Jon-Magnus , Holien Toril , Mirlashari Mohammad Reza , Misund Kristine , Hetland Geir
Published: November 2017

Agaricus blazeiMurill is an edible mushroom of the Basidiomycetes family, which has been found to contain a number of compounds with antitumor properties, such as proteoglycans and ergosterol. In the present investigation, we show that the commercial mushroom product Andosan, which contains 82.4%Agaricus blazeiMurill, together with medicinal mushroomsHericium erinaceus(14.7%) andGrifola frondosa(2.9%), has a cytotoxic effect on primary myeloma cells, other myeloma cell lines, and leukemia cell linesin vitro.Although the exact content and hence the mechanisms of action of the Andosan extract are unknown, we have found in this investigation indications of cell cycle arrest when myeloma cell lines are cultivated with Andosan. This may be one of the possible explanations for the cytotoxic effects of Andosan.
Full Step Cycle Kinematic and Kinetic Comparison of Barefoot Walking and a Traditional Shoe Walking in Healthy Youth: Insights for Barefoot Technology
Authors: Xu Yi , Hou Qinghua , Wang Chuhuai , Sellers Andrew J. , Simpson Travis , Bennett Bradford C. , Russell Shawn D.
Published: November 2017

Objective. Barefoot technology shoes are becoming increasingly popular, yet modifications are still needed. The present study aims to gain valuable insights by comparing barefoot walking to neutral shoe walking in a healthy youth population. Methods. 28 healthy university students (22 females and 6 males) were recruited to walk on a 10-meter walkway both barefoot and in neutral running shoes at their comfortable walking speed. Full step cycle kinematic and kinetic data were collected using an 8-camera motion capture system. Results. In the early stance phase, the knee extension moment (MK1), the first peak absorbed joint power at the knee joint (PK1), and the flexion angle of knee/dorsiflexion angle of the ankle were significantly reduced when walking in neutral running shoes. However, in the late stance, barefoot walking resulted in decreased hip joint flexion moment (MH2), second peak extension knee moment (MK3), hip flexors absorbed power (PH2), hip flexors generated power (PH3), second peak absorbed power by knee flexors (PK2), and second peak anterior-posterior component of joint force at the hip (APFH2), knee (APFK2), and ankle (APFA2). Conclusions. These results indicate that it should be cautious to discard conventional elements from future running shoe designs and rush to embrace the barefoot technology fashion.
Laparoscopy-Assisted versus Open Hepatectomy for Live Liver Donor: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Bin , Pan Yu , Chen Ke , Maher Hendi , Chen Ming-Yu , Zhu He-Pan , Zhu Yi-Bin , Dai Yi , Chen Jiang , Cai Xiu-jun
Published: November 2017

Objective. To assess the feasibility, safety, and potential benefits of laparoscopy-assisted living donor hepatectomy (LADH) in comparison with open living donor hepatectomy (ODH) for liver transplantation. Background. LADH is becoming increasingly common for living donor liver transplant around the world. We aim to determine the efficacy of LADH and compare it with ODH. Methods. A systematic search on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science was conducted in May 2017. Results. Nine studies were suitable for this analysis, involving 979 patients. LADH seemed to be associated with increased operation time (WMD = 24.85 min; 95% CI: −3.01~52.78, P=0.08), less intraoperative blood loss (WMD = −59.92 ml; 95% CI: −94.58~−25.27, P=0.0007), similar hospital stays (WMD = −0.47 d; 95% CI: −1.78~0.83, P=0.47), less postoperative complications (RR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.51~0.94, P=0.02), less analgesic use (SMD = −0.22; 95% CI: −0.44~−0.11, P=0.04), similar transfusion rates (RR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.24~3.12, P=0.82), and similar graft weights (WMD = 7.31 g; 95% CI: −23.45~38.07, P=0.64). Conclusion. Our results indicate that LADH is a safe and effective technique and, when compared to ODH.
Transplantation of Rat Mesenchymal Stem Cells Overexpressing Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 2α Improves Blood Perfusion and Arteriogenesis in a Rat Hindlimb Ischemia Model
Authors: Lu Weifeng , Chen Xiaoli , Si Yi , Hong Shichai , Shi Zhengyu , Fu Weiguo
Published: November 2017

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been increasingly tested in cell-based therapy to treat numerous diseases. Genetic modification to improve MSC behavior may enhance posttransplantation outcome. This study aims to test the potential therapeutic benefits of rat bone marrow MSCs overexpressing hypoxia-inducible factor 2α (rMSCsHIF-2α) in a rat hindlimb ischemia model. PBS, rMSCs, or rMSCsHIF-2α were injected into rat ischemic hindlimb. Compared with the injection of PBS or rMSCs, transplantation of rMSCsHIF-2α significantly improved blood perfusion, increased the number of vessel branches in the muscle of the ischemic hindlimb, and improved the foot mobility of the ischemic hindlimb (all P<0.05). rMSCHIF-2α transplantation also markedly increased the expression of proangiogenic factors VEGF, bFGF, and SDF1 and Notch signaling proteins including DII4, NICD, Hey1, and Hes1, whereas it reduced the expression of proapoptotic factor Bax in the muscle of the ischemic hindlimb. Overexpression of HIF-2α did not affect rMSC stemness and proliferation under normoxia but significantly increased rMSC migration and tube formation in matrigel under hypoxia (all P<0.05). RMSCsHIF-2α stimulated endothelial cell invasion under hypoxia significantly (P<0.05). Genetic modification of rMSCs via overexpression of HIF-2α improves posttransplantation outcomes in a rat hindlimb ischemia model possibly by stimulating proangiogenic growth factors and cytokines.
Retinal Photoreceptors and Microvascular Changes in Prediabetes Measured with Adaptive Optics (rtx1™): A Case-Control Study
Authors: Zaleska-Żmijewska Anna , Piątkiewicz Paweł , Śmigielska Barbara , Sokołowska-Oracz Anna , Wawrzyniak Zbigniew M. , Romaniuk Dorota , Szaflik Jerzy , Szaflik Jacek P.
Published: November 2017

Background. Patients with prediabetes are at risk for diabetes, cardiovascular events, and microvascular complications. The rtx1 (Imagine Eyes, France) permits early detection of changes in the retinal photoreceptors and vessels. Objective. Cone parameters and retinal microvasculature were analyzed with the rtx1 in 12 prediabetic patients and 22 healthy subjects. The analysis was based on cone density (DM), interphotoreceptor distance (SM), cone packing regularity, and retinal vessel parameters: wall thickness, lumen diameter (LD), wall-to-lumen ratio (WLR), and cross-sectional area of the vascular wall. Results. DM in the prediabetic group was not significantly lower than that in the control group (18,935 ± 1713 cells/mm2 and 19,900 ± 2375 cells/mm2, respectively; p=0.0928). The LD and WLR means differed significantly between the prediabetic and the control groups (LD 94.3 ± 10.9 versus 101.2 ± 15, p=0.022; WLR 0.29 ± 0.05 versus 0.22 ± 0.03, p<0.05). A multivariate regression analysis showed that the WLR was significantly correlated with BMI and total cholesterol. Conclusions. Abnormalities found in rtx1 examinations indicated early signs of arteriolar dysfunction, prior to impaired glucose tolerance progressing to diabetes. The rtx1 retinal image analysis offers noninvasive measurement of early changes in the vasculature that routine clinical examination cannot detect.
Hippocampal Regulation of Postsynaptic Density Homer1 by Associative Learning
Authors: Clifton Nicholas E. , Cameron Darren , Trent Simon , Sykes Lucy H. , Thomas Kerrie L. , Hall Jeremy
Published: November 2017

Genes involved in synaptic plasticity, particularly genes encoding postsynaptic density proteins, have been recurrently linked to psychiatric disorders including schizophrenia and autism. Postsynaptic density Homer1 proteins contribute to synaptic plasticity through the competing actions of short and long isoforms. The activity-induced expression of shortHomer1isoforms,Homer1aandAnia-3, is thought to be related to processes of learning and memory. However, the precise regulation ofHomer1aandAnia-3with different components of learning has not been investigated. Here, we used in situ hybridization to quantify short and longHomer1expression in the hippocampus following consolidation, retrieval, and extinction of associative fear memory, using contextual fear conditioning in rats.Homer1aandAnia-3, but not longHomer1, were regulated by contextual fear learning or novelty detection, although their precise patterns of expression in hippocampal subregions were dependent on the isoform. We also show for the first time that the two short Homer1 isoforms are regulated after the retrieval and extinction of contextual fear memory, albeit with distinct temporal and spatial profiles. These findings support a role of activity-induced Homer1 isoforms in learning and memory processes in discrete hippocampal subregions and suggest that Homer1a and Ania-3 may play separable roles in synaptic plasticity.
Optimized‐SopungSunkiwon, a Herbal Formula, Attenuates Aβ Oligomer‐Induced Neurotoxicity in Alzheimer’s Disease Models
Authors: Choi Jin Gyu , Kim Sun Yeou , Kim Jong Woo , Oh Myung Sook
Published: November 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, is an age‐related neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by memory dysfunction, neuronal cell damage, and neuroinflammation. It is believed that AD‐related pathology is mostly due to the overproduction of Aβ, especially the oligomeric form (AβO), in the brain. Evidence of the effects of multifunctional medicinal herbs in the treatment of AD has been steadily increasing. Optimized‐SopungSunkiwon (OSS), a multiherbal formulation that is composed of six medicinal herbs derived from SopungSunkiwon, is a traditional medicine that is prescribed for neurodegenerative disorders in elderly patients. We previously reported that OSS showed an antiamnesic and memory enhancing effect in mice, but it is unknown whether OSS has a protective effect against AβO neurotoxicity. In this study, we investigated the effects of OSS in AD models induced by AβO in vitro and in vivo. We found that OSS protected neuronal cells and inhibited the generation of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species against AβO toxicity in vitro. These results were confirmed by in vivo data that oral administration of OSS for 14 days attenuated memory impairments and neuronal cell death by modulating gliosis, glutathione depletion, and synaptic damage in the mouse hippocampus induced by AβO.
Macrovascular Complications in Patients with Diabetes and Prediabetes
Authors: Huang Dou , Refaat Marwan , Mohammedi Kamel , Jayyousi Amin , Al Suwaidi Jassim , Abi Khalil Charbel
Published: November 2017

Diabetes is a significant health problem worldwide, and its association with cardiovascular disease (CVD) was reported in several studies. Hyperglycemia and insulin resistance seen in diabetes and prediabetes lead to an increase in reactive oxygen species, which triggers intracellular molecular signaling. The resulting prothrombotic state and increase in inflammatory mediators expedite atherosclerotic changes and the development of macrovascular complications. Individuals with diabetes or prediabetes have a higher risk of developing myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. However, no significant difference in cardiovascular morbidity has been observed with tight glycemic control despite a reduction in some CVD outcomes, and the risk of adverse outcomes such as hypoglycemia was increased. Recently, some GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors have been shown to reduce cardiovascular events and mortality. In this review we give an overview of the risk and pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease among diabetic and prediabetic patients, as well as the implication of recent changes in diabetes management.
Relationship between Malaria and ABO Blood Types in East China
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Yang Meifang , Zhao Hong , Hu Jianhua , Li Lanjuan
Published: November 2017

Objectives. This study aims at investigating the relationship between malaria and blood group types in east China. Methods. Between 1 January 2011 and 31 March 2017, 99 malaria patients were enrolled for the study. Laboratory tests were conducted on their infection status and blood types. Clinical data of the participants were retrieved for analysis. Results. There was no mortality during the period of study. Overall, 90 (90.91%) of the patients were positive for Plasmodium falciparum, 8 (8.08%) were infected with Plasmodium vivax, and only 1 (1.01%) was infected with Plasmodium malariae. The most common blood group among the participants was group O (38.38%) followed by blood groups A, B, and AB, with 32.32%, 22.22%, and 7.07% cases, respectively. There was no significant relationship between the prevalence of malaria and ABO blood types (P>0.05). In the blood group O, the prevalence of haemolytic-uremic syndrome and cerebral malaria was 13.16% and 5.25%, respectively, which was lower than that of the other three blood types (P>0.05). Conclusion. There was no mortality among the malaria patients in this study. The blood group O was the most common blood type. Due to small sample size of data, there was no significant association between ABO blood types and malaria infection.
The Accuracy of New and Aged Mechanical Torque Devices Employed in Five Dental Implant Systems
Authors: Erdem Mehmet Ali , Karatasli Burcin , Dinçer Kose Onur , Kose Taha Emre , Çene Erhan , Aydın Aya Serhan , Cankaya Abdulkadir Burak
Published: November 2017

Purpose. Friction-style and spring-style torque wrenches are used to tighten implant abutments and prosthetic screws. The mechanical stability of these torque wrenches is crucial for the implant–abutment connection. The purposes of this study were to assess the performance of five brands (Straumann, Zimmer, Implant KA, Bredent, and Biohorizons) of wrench and to evaluate possible changes in applied torque values of aged wrenches.Materials and Methods. Five new and aged wrenches that had been used approximately 250 times in a 1-year period were tested. The torque applied by friction- and spring-style wrenches was measured with a specially designed strain gauge indicator. Descriptive statistics, the one-samplet-test, and the independent-samplest-test were used to analyze values obtained from all torque wrenches.Results. The accuracy of new and aged torque devices of all brands except Bredent differed significantly from the target values, but the mean values for aged and new wrenches did not differ significantly from each other (p>0.05). Values for the spring- and friction-type torque wrenches deviated from the target values by 11.6% and 10.2%, respectively.Conclusion. The accuracy of aged torque wrenches is adequate for prosthetic screw tightening, but that of new torque wrenches is unsatisfactory and must be examined carefully before delivery.
Localized Synchrotron Irradiation of Mouse Skin Induces Persistent Systemic Genotoxic and Immune Responses
Authors: Ventura Jessica , Lobachevsky Pavel N. , Palazzolo Jason S. , Forrester Helen , Haynes Nicole M. , Ivashkevich Alesia , Stevenson Andrew W. , Hall Christopher J. , Ntargaras Andreas , Kotsaris Vasilis , Pollakis Gerasimos Ch. , Potsi Gianna , Skordylis Konstantinos , Terzoudi Georgia , Pateras Ioannis S. , Gorgoulis Vassilis G. , Georgakilas Alexandros G. , Sprung Carl N. , Martin Olga A.
Published: November 2017

The importance of nontargeted (systemic) effects of ionizing radiation is attracting increasing attention. Exploiting synchrotron radiation generated by the Imaging and Medical Beamline at the Australian Synchrotron, we studied radiation-induced nontargeted effects in C57BL/6 mice. Mice were locally irradiated with a synchrotron X-ray broad beam and a multiplanar microbeam radiotherapy beam. To assess the influence of the beam configurations and variations in peak dose and irradiated area in the response of normal tissues outside the irradiated field at 1 and 4 days after irradiation, we monitored oxidatively induced clustered DNA lesions (OCDL), DNA double-strand breaks (DSB), apoptosis, and the local and systemic immune responses. All radiation settings induced pronounced persistent systemic effects in mice, which resulted from even short exposures of a small irradiated area. OCDLs were elevated in a wide variety of unirradiated normal tissues. In out-of-field duodenum, there was a trend for elevated apoptotic cell death under most irradiation conditions; however, DSBs were elevated only after exposure to lower doses. These genotoxic events were accompanied by changes in plasma concentrations of macrophage-derived cytokine, eotaxin, IL10, TIMP1, VEGF, TGFβ1, and TGFβ2, along with changes in tissues in frequencies of macrophages, neutrophils, and T lymphocytes. Overall, our findings have implications for the planning of therapeutic and diagnostic radiation treatments to reduce the risk of radiation-related adverse systemic effects. Cancer Res; 77(22); 6389–99. ©2017 AACR.
BAP1 Is a Novel Target in HPV-Negative Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Liu Xiyou , Kumar Manish , Yang Liangpeng , Molkentine David P. , Valdecanas David , Yu Shiying , Meyn Raymond E. , Heymach John V. , Skinner Heath D.
Published: November 2017

Purpose: This study examined the potential role of the nuclear deubiquitinating enzyme BRCA1-associated protein-1 (BAP1) in radioresistance in head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC).

Experimental Design: We overexpressed, knocked down, and rescued BAP1 expression in six HNSCC cell lines, three human papillomavirus (HPV)–negative and three HPV-positive, and examined the effects on radiosensitivity in vitro and in an HNSCC mouse xenograft model. Radiosensitivity was assessed by clonogenic cell survival and tumor growth delay assays; changes in protein expression were analyzed by immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting. We also analyzed The Cancer Genome Atlas HNSCC database to test for associations between BAP1 expression and outcome in patients.

Results: Overexpression of BAP1 induced radioresistance in both cell lines and xenograft models; conversely, BAP1 knockdown led to increased ubiquitination of histone H2A, which has been implicated in DNA repair. We further found that BAP1 depletion suppressed the assembly of constitutive BRCA1 foci, which are associated with homologous recombination (HR), but had minimal effect on γ-H2AX foci and did not affect proteins associated with nonhomologous end joining, suggesting that BAP1 affects radiosensitivity in HNSCC by modifying HR. Finally, in patients with HNSCC, overexpression of BAP1 was associated with higher failure rates after radiotherapy.

Conclusions: BAP1 can induce radioresistance in HNSCC cells, possibly via deubiquitination of H2Aub and modulation of HR, and was associated with poor outcomes in patients with HNSCC. BAP1 may be a potential therapeutic target in HNSCC. Clin Cancer Res; 24(3); 600–7. ©2017 AACR.
Metformin for Rapidly Maturing Girls with Central Adiposity: Less Liver Fat and Slower Bone Maturation
Authors: de Zegher Francis , García Beltrán Cristina , López-Bermejo Abel , Ibáñez Lourdes
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Girls with low-birth weight (LBW) and postnatal weight catch-up tend to develop visceral and hepatic fat excess, which may be accompanied by an upregulated adrenarche with precocious pubarche (PP) and by a rapidly progressive puberty with early menarche and shorter stature. A pilot study suggested that metformin treatment for 4 years reduces central adiposity in LBW-PP girls and normalizes puberty and adult height. In this cohort, we studied the relationship between metformin treatment, bone maturation, and body composition. Methods: Longitudinal hand X-rays (0–4 years, analyzed by BoneXpert) were available from 34 LBW-PP girls (89% of the original cohort; n = 17 untreated, n = 17 metformin-treated; age at the start of treatment 8 years) along with body composition (0–4 years, by DXA), hepatic fat, and abdominally subcutaneous and visceral fat (posttreatment, by MRI). Results: The tempo of bone aging was accelerated in untreated girls (≈16% faster vs. chronological aging) and normal in metformin-treated girls (≈20% slower vs. untreated girls). Metformin-treated girls gained more height per bone-age year and had less visceral and hepatic fat. The tempo of bone maturation was associated (R = 0.55; p < 0.001) with hepatic fat. Conclusion: Metformin treatment in rapidly maturing girls with central adiposity normalized bone maturation. This normalization was accompanied by less central fat and was related closely to hepatic fat.
Mikrowellenablation und Immunaktivierung in der Behandlung rezidivierender Lungenmetastasen eines Kolorektalkarzinoms: Ein Fallbericht
Authors: Bäcklund Magnus , Freedman Jacob
Published: November 2017

Wir berichten über eine Patientin mit Metastasen eines Kolorektalkarzinoms, die auf die Lunge begrenzt waren und mehrfach reseziert wurden, bis die Resektion keine therapeutische Option mehr darstellte; daraufhin wurde eine stereotaktische Körperbestrahlung durchgeführt bis auch diese Option ausgeschöpft war. Anschließend erfolgte eine erfolgreiche Behandlung mit multiplen Mikrowellenablationen in Kombination mit einer immunaktivierenden Therapie, die am programmed cell death 1 receptor (PD-1) angreift und möglicherweise einen starken abscopalen Effekt auslöst. Im Folgenden werden Verfahren, Dosierungen und radiologische Befunde dargestellt. Übersetzung aus Case Rep Oncol 2017;10:383-387 (DOI: 10.1159/000468982)
Flüssigbiopsie: Status quo und Zukunftsperspektiven
Authors: Pantel Klaus , Mader Sonja
Published: November 2017

Krebspatienten erhalten gewöhnlich eine auf die molekularen Eigenschaften des Primärtumors ausgerichtete Behandlung. Diese Merkmale können sich im Verlauf der molekularen Entwicklung von Fernmetastasen, welche die Hauptursache krebsbedingter Todesfälle sind, verändern. Das Primärtumorgewebe liefert, sofern es überhaupt für die Gewinnung einer Gewebeprobe zugänglich ist, nicht immer ausreichend Informationen, um die einzelnen Patienten stratifizieren und sie der Therapie zuführen zu können, die für sie am besten geeignet ist. Eine wiederholte Beurteilung metastatischer Läsionen mittels Nadelbiopsie ist möglich, jedoch invasiv und durch die bekannte Intra-Patienten-Heterogenität der einzelnen Läsionen limitiert. Diese Hindernisse können durch die Analyse von Tumorzellen oder Tumorzellprodukten in einer Blutprobe (Flüssigbiopsie) überwunden werden, da diese im Prinzip alle zu einem bestimmten Zeitpunkt vorliegenden Subklone widerspiegelt und eine sequenzielle Kontrolle des Krankheitsverlaufs ermöglicht. Flüssigbiopsien geben Auskunft über zirkulierende Tumorzellen sowie vom Tumor freigesetzte zellfreie Nukleinsäuren, Exosome und Thrombozyten. In der vorliegenden Arbeit stellen wir die verschiedenen Ansätze im Zusammenhang mit blutbasierten Flüssigbiopsien vor und erörtern die klinische Anwendung in der Onkologie. Übersetzung aus Oncol Res Treat 2017;40:404-408 (DOI:10.1159/000478018)
Heptamethoxyflavone Reduces Phosphodiesterase Activity and T-Cell Growth in vitro
Authors: Hamada Yui , Nakajima Mitsunari , Tsuzuki Kazuna , Amakura Yoshiaki , Yoshimura Morio , Okuyama Satoshi , Furukawa Yoshiko
Published: November 2017

In a previous study, we reported that interleukin-4 production was reduced in spleen cells of mice administered 3,5,6,7,8,3′,4′-heptamethoxyflavone (HMF), which is a polymethoxyflavone found at high concentrations in the peel of various citrus fruits. In this study, we investigated the function of HMF on the growth of T cells cultured from the spleens of mice. HMF decreased the reduction of 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) by anti-CD3/CD28 antibody-stimulated mouse spleen cells. HMF inhibited the activities of phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzymes prepared from bovine brain and human PDE4B and PDE3B enzymes. The cyclic AMP (cAMP) content in anti-CD3/CD28 antibody-stimulated spleen cells increased after HMF treatment in vitro. These results suggest that HMF inhibits T-cell growth and affects immune function via reduced PDE activity and increased cAMP content.
From the EU Legislation to the Application of the Single European Code: Support to the Implementation
Authors: Caramia Valentina , Ghirardini Angelo , Di Ciaccio Paola , Vespasiano Francesca , Mareri Maura , Nanni Costa Alessandro
Published: November 2017

The Italian National Transplant Centre (CNT) is coordinating with the Italian National Blood Centre (CNS) the Joint Action ‘VISTART' (EU Grant Agreement n. 676969), which has received funding from the European Union's Health Programme (2014-2020). CNT is also the leader of the Joint Action's Work Package 10 aimed at providing technical support and guidance to European tissue- and cell-competent authorities and to tissue establishments across the European Union in the implementation of the Single European Code (SEC). A consortium of three organizations, built by CNT, the International Council for Commonality in Blood Banking Automation (ICCBBA) and Artman Technologies under the European Commission funded service contract ‘Eurocet128' (www.eurocet128.eu), already built the European Tissue Establishment and Tissue and Cell Product Compendia between 2011 and 2014 in order to provide European Member States with a tool which would grant traceability of tissues and cells at human transplant purpose across the European Union. The two compendia are available on an online platform hosted and managed by the European Commission.
Auswirkungen einer CPAP-Therapie auf pathophysiologische Effekte der OSA: Klare Erkenntnisse nur durch langfristige Untersuchungen möglich
Authors: Randerath Winfried J. , Herkenrath Simon-Dominik
Published: November 2017

Hintergrund: Eine erhöhte Blutdruckvariabilität (BDV) tagsüber ist mit kardiovaskulärem Risiko assoziiert. Frühe Studiendaten deuten darauf hin, dass die obstruktive Schlafapnoe (OSA) zu einer erhöhten BDV tagsüber beitragen könnte. Ziel: Das Ziel dieser Studie war es zu beurteilen, wie sich die CPAP-Entwöhnung (kontinuierlicher positiver Atemwegsdruck) auf die BDV tagsüber auswirkt. Methoden: Insgesamt 183 Patienten, die nach OSA-Diagnose CPAP anwendeten, wurden in vier Studien per Randomisierung der CPAP-Fortführung oder -Entwöhnung zugeteilt. Blutdruckmessungen erfolgten ärztlich morgens als Dreifach-Messreihe zu Studienbeginn und im Follow-up (Tag 14). Außerdem maßen die Patienten ihren Blutdruck täglich zu Hause selbst (Tag 1-13). Der wichtigste untersuchte Endpunkt war der Behandlungseffekt auf die BDV im Rahmen der ärztlichen Visite, ausgedrückt als Standardabweichung (SD) der Dreifach-Messreihen. Weitere Endpunkte waren die BDV bei den Selbstmessungen am Morgen sowie die tägliche BDV laut Selbstmessung. Ergebnisse: Die Variabilität des systolischen Blutdrucks im Rahmen der ärztlichen Visite stieg in Reaktion auf das Wiederauftreten der OSA in der CPAP-Entwöhnungsgruppe signifikant an (Unterschied zwischen den Gruppen bei der SD der systolischen BDV: +1,14 mmHg; 95-%-KI: +0,20/+2,09; p = 0,02). Bei der Variabilität des diastolischen Blutdrucks im Rahmen der ärztlichen Visite sowie der Herzfrequenz war kein statistisch signifikanter Effekt zu verzeichnen (p = 0,38 bzw. 0,07). Auch die Variabilität der Selbstmessungen am Morgen (systolische BDV: p = 0,81; diastolische BDV: p = 0,46) und die der Day-to-day-Selbstmessungen (systolische BDV: p = 0,61; diastolische BDV: p = 0,58) wiesen keine signifikanten Unterschiede zwischen den Gruppen auf. Schlussfolgerung: Die CPAP-Entwöhnung führt zu einem geringfügigen Anstieg der Variabilität des im Rahmen einer ärztlichen Visite gemessenen systolischen Blutdrucks, wirkt sich jedoch nicht auf die am Morgen oder täglich selbstgemessene BDV aus. Wenngleich der Behandlungseffekt durch Antihypertensiva geschmälert sein könnte, ist es doch unwahrscheinlich, dass die OSA zum kardiovaskulären Risiko durch erhöhte BDV tagsüber beiträgt.
A Rare Differential Diagnosis of an Adrenal Mass: A Case Report
Authors: Seidel Ann-Katrin , Pless Miklos , Michel Christian , Soll Christopher , Hochuli Caroline , Gubler Jacques 
Published: November 2017

Ten years after his last treatment for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, a seemingly healthy, 64-year-old man presented for his lymphoma-related follow-up. Ultrasound revealed an impressive tumor in the right adrenal gland. Due to recurrent cancer therapies in the past, this seemed highly suspicious of a second malignancy, such as primary adrenal carcinoma. Surprisingly, histology disclosed a very different but rare cause for this pseudotumorous lesion.
Gut Microbiota-Dependent Modulation of Energy Metabolism
Authors: Heiss Christina N. , Olofsson Louise E.
Published: November 2017

The gut microbiota has emerged as an environmental factor that modulates the host's energy balance. It increases the host's ability to harvest energy from the digested food, and produces metabolites and microbial products such as short-chain fatty acids, secondary bile acids, and lipopolysaccharides. These metabolites and microbial products act as signaling molecules that modulate appetite, gut motility, energy uptake and storage, and energy expenditure. Several findings suggest that the gut microbiota can affect the development of obesity. Germ-free mice are leaner than conventionally raised mice and they are protected against diet-induced obesity. Furthermore, obese humans and rodents have an altered gut microbiota composition with less phylogeneic diversity compared to lean controls, and transplantation of the gut microbiota from obese subjects to germ-free mice can transfer the obese phenotype. Taken together, these findings indicate a role for the gut microbiota in obesity and suggest that the gut microbiota could be targeted to improve metabolic diseases like obesity. This review focuses on the role of the gut microbiota in energy balance regulation and its potential role in obesity.
Endocranial Casts of Pre-Mammalian Therapsids Reveal an Unexpected Neurological Diversity at the Deep Evolutionary Root of Mammals
Authors: Benoit Julien , Fernandez Vincent , Manger Paul R. , Rubidge Bruce S.
Published: November 2017

The origin and evolution of the mammalian brain has long been the focus of scientific enquiry. Conversely, little research has focused on the palaeoneurology of the stem group of Mammaliaformes, the Permian and Triassic non-mammaliaform Therapsida (NMT). This is because the majority of the NMT have a non-ossified braincase, making the study of their endocranial cast (sometimes called the “fossil brain”) problematic. Thus, descriptions of the morphology and size of NMT endocranial casts have been based largely on approximations rather than reliable determination. Accordingly, here we use micro-CT scans of the skulls of 1 Dinocephalia and 3 Biarmosuchia, which are NMT with a fully ossified braincase and thus a complete endocast. For the first time, our work enables the accurate determination of endocranial shape and size in NMT. This study suggests that NMT brain size falls in the upper range of the reptilian and amphibian variation. Brain size in the dicynodont Kawingasaurus is equivalent to that of early Mammaliaformes, whereas the Dinocephalia show evidence of a secondary reduction of brain size. In addition, unlike other NMT in which the endocast has a tubular shape and its parts are arranged in a linear manner, the biarmosuchian endocast is strongly flexed at the level of the midbrain, creating a near right angle between the fore- and hindbrain. These data highlight an unexpected diversity of endocranial size and morphology in NMT, features that are usually considered conservative in this group.
Atypical Squamous Cells in Liquid-Based Cervical Cytology: Microbiology, Inflammatory Infiltrate, and Human Papillomavirus-DNA Testing
Authors: Gomes de Oliveira Geilson , Eleutério Renata Mirian Nunes , Silveira Gonçalves Ana Katherine , Giraldo Paulo César , Eleutério Jr. José
Published: November 2017

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between atypical squamous cells (ASC) and inflammatory infiltrate and vaginal microbiota using cervical liquid-based cytological (SurePath®) and high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) tests. Study Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a 6-year database from a laboratory in Fortaleza (Brazil). Files from 1,346 ASC cases were divided into subgroups and results concerning inflammation and vaginal microorganisms diagnosed by cytology were compared with HR-HPV test results. Results: An absence of specific microorganisms (ASM) was the most frequent finding (ASC of undetermined significance, ASC-US = 74%; ASC - cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, ASC-H = 68%), followed by bacterial vaginosis (ASC-US = 20%; ASC- H = 25%) and Candida spp. (ASC-US = 6%; ASC-H = 5%). Leukocyte infiltrate was present in 71% of ASC-US and 85% of ASC-H (p = 0.0040), and in these specific cases HR-HPV tests were positive for 65 and 64%, respectively. A positive HR-HPV test was relatively more frequent when a specific microorganism was present, and Candida spp. was associated with HR-HPV-positive results (p = 0.0156), while an ASM was associated with negative HR-HPV results (p = 0.0370). Conclusion: ASC-US is associated with an absence of inflammation or vaginosis, while ASC-H smears are associated with Trichomonas vaginalis and inflammatory infiltrate. A positive HR-HPV is associated with Candida spp. in ASC cytology.
Capsaicin Used on Skin Influences Ion Transport Pathways: An in vitro Study
Authors: Hołyńska-Iwan Iga , Dziembowska Inga , Smyk Paulina , Lampka Magdalena , Olszewska-Słonina Dorota
Published: November 2017

Acute, adverse skin effects to capsaicin can be activated by inhibition of sodium transport not only in nociceptive neurons, but also in keratinocytes. The aim of the current study was to describe and compare immediate (15 s) and prolonged (30 min) effects of capsaicin on epidermal (not neural) sodium transport using a rabbit skin model. Skin fragments (n = 169) were incubated in 4 conditions: undisturbed ion transport (U; n = 48); inhibited sodium transport (INa; n = 34) with amiloride used as sodium transport blocker; long-term irritation by capsaicin with undisturbed ion transport (CAPSA-U; n = 43) and with inhibited sodium transport (CAPSA-INa; n = 35). After 30 min of incubation, a solution of capsaicin was applied directly to the skin fragments. The study demonstrated that sodium transport inhibition eliminated the effects of both immediate and prolonged capsaicin application. The results could be the basis for future research considering selective sodium transport inhibitors for human skin to reduce the side effects of capsaicin, related to activation of sodium channels in keratinocytes.
Pleiotropic Effects of White Willow Bark and 1,2-Decanediol on Human Adult Keratinocytes
Authors: Bassino Eleonora , Gasparri Franco , Munaron Luca
Published: November 2017

Background: Acne vulgaris is a common skin defect, usually occurring during adolescence, but often it can persist in adults leaving permanent face scarring. Acne is usually treated with topical drugs, oral antibiotics, retinoids, and hormonal therapies, but medicinal plants are increasingly employed. Objective: To investigate the protective role of white willow bark (WWB) and 1,2-decanediol (DD) on the damage caused by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) on human adult keratinocytes (HaCaT). Methods: HaCaT were exposed to LPS alone or in association with WWB and DD. Epidermal viability, metabolic modulation, inflammatory activity, and cell migration were assessed with both common standardized protocols or high-throughput screening systems. Results: The preincubation of HaCaT with WWB and DD (used separately or in combination) differently prevented the alterations induced by LPS on HaCaT in terms of growth factor release (IGF, EGF, VEGF), cytokine production (IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8), or expression of the transcription factor FOXO-I. Moreover, they partially restore wound repair lowered by LPS. Conclusions: These results suggest that both natural compounds were able to differently affect several functions of LPS-stressed keratinocytes suggesting their potential role for the prevention of acne vulgaris, without adverse effects.
A Rare Case of Docetaxel-Induced Hydrocephalus Presenting with Gait Disturbances Mimicking and Coexisting with Taxane-Associated Polyneuropathy: The Relevance of Differential Diagnosis, Clinical Assessment, and Response to Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt
Authors: Serrano Sponton Lucas Ezequiel , Januschek Elke
Published: November 2017

Docetaxel constitutes a widely used chemotherapeutic agent as a first-line treatment for several neoplastic diseases. One of the most common side effects induced by this drug is polyneuropathy, which among other symptoms can cause gait disbalance. However, in exceptional cases gait disturbances could be related to docetaxel-induced hydrocephalus, a rare event that up to the present has been overseen throughout the medical literature and should be meticulously differentiated from polyneuropathy, since its clinical features, treatment, and prognosis differ drastically. We present the case of a woman with a progressive gait disturbance that started immediately after having been treated with docetaxel for breast cancer resembling the same clinical characteristics as seen in patients affected by normal pressure hydrocephalus. The symptoms had been observed for about 2 years as having been caused only by polyneuropathy, given the high incidence of this side effect and the accompanying numbness of distal extremities. However, brain MRI evidenced a marked enlargement of the ventricular system. Brain metastases as well as carcinomatous meningitis were ruled out. After having placed a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, the patient showed a rapid, long-lasting and outstanding improvement of gait performance. We discuss the coexistence, in this case, of taxane-associated hydrocephalus and polyneuropathy and describe the clinical features, assessment and surgical outcome of docetaxel-induced hydrocephalus, since its early recognition and differentiation from the highly frequent taxane-associated polyneuropathy has relevant consequences for the management and treatment of these patients.