bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resection of primary motor cortex tumors: feasibility and surgical outcomes
Authors: Magill Stephen T. , Han Seunggu J. , Li Jing , Berger Mitchel S.
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

Brain tumors involving the primary motor cortex are often deemed unresectable due to the potential neurological consequences that result from injury to this region. Nevertheless, we have challenged this dogma for many years and used asleep, as well as awake, intraoperative stimulation mapping to maximize extent of resection. It remains unclear whether these tumors can be resected with acceptable morbidity, whether performing the surgery with the patient awake or asleep impacts extent of resection, and how stimulation mapping influences outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed on the senior author’s cohort to identify patients treated between 1998 and 2016 who underwent resection of tumors that were located within the primary motor cortex. Clinical notes, operative reports, and radiographic images were reviewed to identify intraoperative stimulation mapping findings and functional outcomes following tumor resection. Extent of resection was quantified volumetrically. Characteristics of patients were analyzed to identify factors associated with postoperative motor deficits.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients underwent 53 resections of tumors located primarily within the motor cortex. Stimulation mapping was performed in all cases. Positive cortical sites for motor response were identified in 91% of cases, and subcortical sites in 74%. Awake craniotomy was performed in 65% of cases, while 35% were done under general anesthesia. The mean extent of resection was 91%. There was no statistically significant difference in extent of resection in cases done awake compared with those done under general anesthesia. New or worsened postoperative motor deficits occurred in 32 patients (60%), and 20 patients (38%) had a permanent deficit. Of the permanent deficits, 14 were mild, 4 were moderate, and 2 were severe (3.8% of cases). Decreased intraoperative motor response and diffusion restriction on postoperative MRI were associated with permanent deficit. Awake motor mapping surgery was associated with increased diffusion signal on postoperative MRI.

CONCLUSIONS

Resection of tumors from the primary motor cortex is associated with an increased risk of motor deficit, but most of these deficits are transient or mild and have little functional impact. Excellent extent of resection can be achieved with intraoperative stimulation mapping, suggesting that these tumors are indeed amenable to resection and should not be labeled unresectable. Injury to small perforating or en passage blood vessels was the most common cause of infarction that led to moderate or severe deficits. Awake motor mapping was not superior to mapping done under general anesthesia with regard to long-term functional outcome.
Does the obesity paradox predict functional outcome in intracerebral hemorrhage?
Authors: Dangayach Neha S. , Grewal Harpreet Singh , De Marchis Gian Marco , Sefcik Roberta K. , Bruce Rachel , Chhatlani Aarti , Connolly E. Sander , Falo M. Cristina , Agarwal Sachin , Claassen Jan , Schmidt J. Michael , Mayer Stephan A.
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

Being overweight or mildly obese has been associated with a decreased risk of death or hospitalization in patients with cardiovascular disease. Similarly, overweight patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) have improved survival up to 1 year after admission. These counterintuitive observations are examples of the “obesity paradox.” Does the obesity paradox exist in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH)? In this study the authors examined whether there was an association between obesity and functional outcome in patients with ICH.

METHODS

The authors analyzed 202 patients admitted to the neurological ICU (NICU) who were prospectively enrolled in the Columbia University ICH Outcomes Project between September 2009 and December 2012. Patients were categorized into 2 groups: overweight (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 25 kg/m2) and not overweight (BMI < 25 kg/m2). The primary outcome was defined as survival with favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score 0–3) versus death or severe disability (mRS score 4–6) at 3 months.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients in the study was 61 years. The mean BMI was 28 ± 6 kg/m2. The mean Glasgow Coma Scale score was 10 ± 4 and the mean ICH score was 1.9 ± 1.3. The overall 90-day mortality rate was 41%. Among patients with a BMI < 25 kg/m2, 24% (17/70) had a good outcome, compared with 39% (52/132) among those with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (p = 0.03). After adjusting for ICH score, sex, do-not-resuscitate code status, and history of hypertension, being overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) was associated with twice the odds of having a good outcome compared with patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2 (adjusted odds ratio 2.05, 95% confidence interval 1.03–4.06, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with ICH admitted to the NICU, being overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) was associated with favorable outcome after adjustment for established predictors. The reason for this finding requires further study.
Metastases of spinal myxopapillary ependymoma: unique characteristics and clinical management
Authors: Kraetzig Theresa , McLaughlin Lily , Bilsky Mark H. , Laufer Ilya
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

Myxopapillary ependymoma is a benign WHO Grade I tumor most commonly located in the conus–cauda equina region of the spine. Although this tumor is defined by an overall excellent survival, dissemination throughout the whole neuraxis occurs frequently. The current study evaluated the clinical characteristics and significance of myxopapillary ependymoma metastases.

METHODS

Patients who underwent surgery from 2005 to 2015 for treatment of spinal myxopapillary ependymoma were included in the study. Charts were reviewed for primary tumor symptoms and initial treatment, local recurrence, response to salvage therapy, and presence and behavior of distant metastases.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients with spinal myxopapillary ependymoma were included in the study (52.6% female). The median age at first diagnosis was 32 years old (range 9–58 years old), and 26.3% were ≤ 18 years old. The median follow-up of all included patients was 48 months (range 6–456 months). Of the primary tumors, 84.2% were located in the lower thoracic or upper lumbar spine, spanning 1–3 levels in 94.7%. All patients underwent surgery for initial treatment: in 78.9% a gross-total resection (GTR) was achieved, with adjuvant radiation therapy (RT) in 20%. Of the 21.2% who underwent a subtotal resection (STR), 75% underwent postoperative RT. Tumor progression was noted in 26.3% of patients after a median 36-month follow-up (range 12–240 months). In 57.9% of patients, distant metastases were found, of which 36.4% were present at initial diagnosis. Further metastases occurred within a median of 20 months (range 2–360 months). Following a diagnosis of metastatic tumor, 72.7% did not show progression and no symptoms were observed during a median follow-up of 36 months (range 6–216 months). Metastases occurred in all parts of the neuroaxis, but were principally localized in the thoracic and sacral spine in 38.9% and 33.3%, respectively; the brain was involved in 11.1%. In 54.5%, more than 1 level was affected. Overall survival was 100% with an excellent clinical and neurological outcome in 78.9% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Metastatic dissemination within the CNS can be observed in many patients with myxopapillary ependymoma. GTR of the primary tumor should be the primary treatment goal, and additional RT is recommended after STR. For distant metastases of myxopapillary ependymoma without clinical manifestation, close clinical and MRI follow-up represents a sufficient strategy because most of the metastases remain asymptomatic and do not show progression over time. Additional resection or irradiation as salvage therapy would be recommended if metastases become symptomatic.
Spinal accessory nerve to triceps muscle transfer using long autologous nerve grafts for recovery of elbow extension in traumatic brachial plexus injuries
Authors: Bulstra Liselotte F. , Rbia Nadia , Kircher Michelle F. , Spinner Robert J. , Bishop Allen T. , Shin Alexander Y.
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

Reconstructive options for brachial plexus lesions continue to expand and improve. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and quality of restored elbow extension in patients with brachial plexus injuries who underwent transfer of the spinal accessory nerve to the motor branch of the radial nerve to the long head of the triceps muscle with an intervening autologous nerve graft and to identify patient and injury factors that influence functional triceps outcome.

METHODS

A total of 42 patients were included in this retrospective review. All patients underwent transfer of the spinal accessory nerve to the motor branch of the radial nerve to the long head of the triceps muscle as part of their reconstruction plan after brachial plexus injury. The primary outcome was elbow extension strength according to the modified Medical Research Council muscle grading scale, and signs of triceps muscle recovery were recorded using electromyography.

RESULTS

When evaluating the entire study population (follow-up range 12–45 months, mean 24.3 months), 52.4% of patients achieved meaningful recovery. More specifically, 45.2% reached Grade 0 or 1 recovery, 19.1% obtained Grade 2, and 35.7% improved to Grade 3 or better. The presence of a vascular injury impaired functional outcome. In the subgroup with a minimum follow-up of 20 months (n = 26), meaningful recovery was obtained by 69.5%. In this subgroup, 7.7% had no recovery (Grade 0), 19.2% had recovery to Grade 1, and 23.1% had recovery to Grade 2. Grade 3 or better was reached by 50% of patients, of whom 34.5% obtained Grade 4 elbow extension.

CONCLUSIONS

Transfer of the spinal accessory nerve to the radial nerve branch to the long head of the triceps muscle with an interposition nerve graft is an adequate option for restoration of elbow extension, despite the relatively long time required for reinnervation. The presence of vascular injury impairs functional recovery of the triceps muscle, and the use of shorter nerve grafts is recommended when and if possible.
Anatomical and technical factors associated with superior facet joint violation in lumbar fusion
Authors: Teles Alisson R. , Paci Michael , Gutman Gabriel , Abduljabbar Fahad H. , Ouellet Jean A. , Weber Michael H. , Golan Jeff D.
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomical and surgical risk factors for screw-related facet joint violation at the superior level in lumbar fusion.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective review of a consecutive series of posterior lumbar instrumented fusions performed by a single surgeon. Inclusion criteria were primary lumbar fusion of 1 or 2 levels for degenerative disorders. The following variables were analyzed as possible risk factors: surgical technique (percutaneous vs open screw placement), depth of surgical field, degree of anterior slippage of the superior level, pedicle and facet angle, and facet degeneration of the superior level. Postoperative CT scans were evaluated by 2 independent reviewers. Axial, sagittal, and coronal views were reviewed. Pedicle screws were graded as intra-articular if they clearly interposed between the superior and inferior facet joints of the superior level. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the factors associated with this complication.

RESULTS

One hundred thirty-one patients were included. Interobserver reliability for facet joint violation assessment was high (κ = 0.789). The incidence of superior facet joint violation was 12.59% per top-level screw (33 of 262 proximal screws). The rate of facet violation was 28.0% in the percutaneous technique group (14 of 50 patients) and 12.3% in the open surgery group (10 of 81 patients) (OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.09–4.21; p = 0.024). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, independent predictors of facet violation were percutaneous screw placement (adjusted OR 3.31, 95% CI 1.42–7.73; p = 0.006), right-side pedicle screw (adjusted OR 3.14, 95% CI 1.29–7.63; p = 0.011), and facet angle > 45° (adjusted OR 10.95, 95% CI 4.64–25.84; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of facet joint violation was higher in percutaneous minimally invasive than in open technique for posterior lumbar spine surgery. Also, coronal orientation of the facet joint is a significant risk factor independent of the surgical technique.
Unbalanced displacement LMS extraction algorithm and vibration control of a bearingless induction motor
Authors: Bu Wenshao , Huang Yongquan , Lu Chunxiao , Zhang Haitao , Shi Haitao
Published: December 2017

Aiming at the unbalanced vibration problem of bearingless induction motor caused by the rotor mass eccentricity, an adaptive LMS extraction method of unbalanced displacement is proposed. Firstly, the characteristics of unbalanced displacement signal, the influences of step size factor on the tracking speed and the steady state tracking error are analyzed; then in order to solve the contradiction between tracking speed and steady state tracking error, and achieve the quick extraction of unbalanced displacement, a convenient nonlinear function of step size factor is adopted. On this basis, an unbalanced vibration control system of a bearingless induction motor is constructed; simulation verification and analysis are made. The simulation results have shown that the unbalanced displacement signal can be extracted quickly in dynamic status, a higher extraction precision of unbalanced displacement can be obtained in steady status; based the proposed extraction method of unbalanced displacement signal, the magnetic suspension control performance of a bearingless induction motor can be improved greatly.
Metamodel for 2D magnet-rail relationship based on stepwise regression
Authors: Zeng Shuo , Liu Yaozong , Li Jun
Published: December 2017

Almost all existing analytical formulae describing the magnet-rail relationship for maglev trains have been derived with the assumption that magnetic media operate within the linear zone of the B-H curve and, therefore, over-predict the levitation and guidance forces when the magnetic media are in their saturation states. In such cases, finite element simulations are commonly used to obtain an accurate solution of the electromagnetic force, but this process is time-consuming. In this study, metamodels suitable for saturated magnetic media are constructed based on the methods of uniform design and stepwise regression, and their performance is assessed in terms of data fitting and prediction accuracy.
Structural studies on a novel 2D polymeric barium complex of keto tautomeric form of 2-hydroxynicotinic acid –poly[aqua(μ3-chlorido)(μ3-2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridine-3-carboxylato)barium(II)]
Authors: Drisya R. , Soumya Mol U.S. , Satheesh Chandran P.R. , Simi C.K. , Sudarsanakumar M.R. , Sudhadevi Antharjanam P.K.
Published: December 2017

A 2D barium complex formulated as [Ba(C6H4NO3)(Cl)(H2O)]n was successfully synthesized by gel diffusion technique using hydrosilica gel medium at room temperature. Single crystal X-ray diffraction studies confirm that the complex is triclinic with space group P [Formula: see text] and exhibits a 2D framework by the interconnection of oxobridge and chlorobridge in alternative layers. The unit cell dimensions are a = 5.7737(2) Å, b = 6.8503(2) Å, c = 11.5378(4) Å, α= 106.432(2)°, β= 100.644(2)°, γ= 93.049(2)°. The crystal structure is further stabilized by a 3D one through a pair of N–H ⋯O intermolecular hydrogen bonds to form R22(8) ring motifs. Each barium cation is nine coordinated to form distorted tricapped trigonal prism geometry. The gel grown crystals were characterized by several physico-chemical techniques including elemental analysis, FT-IR, UV-Visible spectral studies, powder X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetry.
Synthesis, biological activity of a new long-chain di-Schiff base ligand and Ru(II) complex in solvent-free conditions
Authors: Demirhan Nebahat , Peksel Ayşegül , Elmali Fikriye Tuncel , Eren Mürfe
Published: December 2017

A new Long-chain, di-Schiff base ligand (N2O2 donor, L) has been synthesized by the reaction of dodecylamine with, 1,5-bis(2’-formylphenyl)-1,5-dioxapentane in molar, 2:1 ratio (yielded 82%) and its Ru(II) complex have been prepared (yielded 78%) in solvent-free conditions. The newly synthesized compounds have been verified by ATR-IR, UV-vis., mass (LC-MS and MALDI-TOF) and NMR (1H,13C) spectra, elemental and thermal analysis. The DNA binding studies of the ligand and complex were examined by absorption method. The results indicated that the ligand and Ru(II) complex could interact with calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) through electrostatic or/and groove binding (minor/major). The apparent binding constant values (Kb) of the ligand and Ru(II) complex at room temperature were calculated to be 5.9×105 M-1 and 7.9×105 M-1, respectively. Antioxidant study of the ligand and complex showed significant antioxidant activity against lipid peroxidation. The ligand and complex also have moderate radical scavenging properties.
Multi-Protection of DL0410 in Ameliorating Cognitive Defects in D-Galactose Induced Aging Mice
Authors: Lian Wenwen , Jia Hao , Xu Lvjie , Zhou Wei , Kang De , Liu Ailin , Du Guanhua
Published: December 2017

D-galactose has been reported to accelerate senescence in rodents, accompanied by a decline in learning and memory. We used a model of D-galactose-induced amnesia for the efficacy evaluation and pharmacologic studies of active compounds against Alzheimer’s disease (AD). DL0410 is a potent inhibitor against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and, in the present study, the effect of DL0410 was evaluated in this model. We found that DL0410 could significantly improve the learning and memory of D-galactose induced aging mice in a series of behavioral tests: novel-object recognition test, nest-building test, Morris water maze test and step-through test. Pharmacologic studies were conducted from several aspects: the cholinergic system, mitochondrial respiration, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, apoptosis and synaptic loss. The acetylcholine level and AChE activity were not altered by D-galactose but were slightly affected by DL0410 in the brain. DL0410 could significantly improve decreased mitochondrial respiration in the NADH chain and FADH2 chain, and protect mitochondrial ultrastructure. DL0410 reduced the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and increase the total antioxidant capability of the brain via an increase in activity of catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). RAGE expression was inhibited by DL0410, followed by the decreased activation of astrocytes and microglia. Subsequent phosphorylation of NF-κB was also reversed by DL0410, with lower expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) and iNOS. With respect to apoptosis, the activation of caspase 3 and cleavage of PARP were downregulated significantly by DL0410, after the inhibition of phosphorylation of JNK induced by inflammation and oxidative stress. Synaptic protection by DL0410 was also demonstrated. These data suggest that mitochondrial protection has a primary role in the ameliorating effect of DL0410 on the impaired learning and memory, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and synaptic loss induced by D-galactose. DL0410 is a promising candidate for the treatment of aging-related AD, and this study lays an important foundation for its further research and development.
A Hierarchical Multi-Label Classification Algorithm for Gene Function Prediction
Authors: Feng Shou , Fu Ping , Zheng Wenbin
Published: December 2017

Gene function prediction is a complicated and challenging hierarchical multi-label classification (HMC) task, in which genes may have many functions at the same time and these functions are organized in a hierarchy. This paper proposed a novel HMC algorithm for solving this problem based on the Gene Ontology (GO), the hierarchy of which is a directed acyclic graph (DAG) and is more difficult to tackle. In the proposed algorithm, the HMC task is firstly changed into a set of binary classification tasks. Then, two measures are implemented in the algorithm to enhance the HMC performance by considering the hierarchy structure during the learning procedures. Firstly, negative instances selecting policy associated with the SMOTE approach are proposed to alleviate the imbalanced data set problem. Secondly, a nodes interaction method is introduced to combine the results of binary classifiers. It can guarantee that the predictions are consistent with the hierarchy constraint. The experiments on eight benchmark yeast data sets annotated by the Gene Ontology show the promising performance of the proposed algorithm compared with other state-of-the-art algorithms.
A Review of Smart Materials in Tactile Actuators for Information Delivery
Authors: Xie Xin , Liu Sanwei , Yang Chenye , Yang Zhengyu , Liu Tian , Xu Juncai , Zhang Cheng , Zhai Xianglin
Published: December 2017

As the largest organ in the human body, the skin provides the important sensory channel for humans to receive external stimulations based on touch. By the information perceived through touch, people can feel and guess the properties of objects, like weight, temperature, textures, and motion, etc. In fact, those properties are nerve stimuli to our brain received by different kinds of receptors in the skin. Mechanical, electrical, and thermal stimuli can stimulate these receptors and cause different information to be conveyed through the nerves. Technologies for actuators to provide mechanical, electrical or thermal stimuli have been developed. These include static or vibrational actuation, electrostatic stimulation, focused ultrasound, and more. Smart materials, such as piezoelectric materials, carbon nanotubes, and shape memory alloys, play important roles in providing actuation for tactile sensation. This paper aims to review the background biological knowledge of human tactile sensing, to give an understanding of how we sense and interact with the world through the sense of touch, as well as the conventional and state-of-the-art technologies of tactile actuators for tactile feedback delivery.
Series Solution of the Pantograph Equation and Its Properties
Authors: Bhalekar Sachin , Patade Jayvant
Published: December 2017

In this paper, we discuss the classical pantograph equation and its generalizations to include fractional order and the higher order case. The special functions are obtained from the series solution of these equations. We study different properties of these special functions and establish the relation with other functions. Further, we discuss some contiguous relations for these special functions.
Do Emotional Components of Alexithymia Mediate the Interplay between Cyberbullying Victimization and Perpetration?
Authors: Wachs Sebastian , Bilz Ludwig , Fischer Saskia , Wright Michelle
Published: December 2017

A substantial amount of research has revealed that cyberbully-victims have more emotional and behavioral problems than either cyberbullying victims or perpetrators. However, until now, little research has been conducted into the factors that contribute to the interplay between cyberbullying victimization and perpetration. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between cyberbullying victimization, perpetration, and two emotional components of alexithymia, namely difficulties in identifying and describing one’s own feelings. Self-report questions were administered to 1549 adolescents between 12 and 18 years old (M = 14.51; SD = 1.68; 42.1% (n = 652) male) from Germany and Thailand. Results showed that cyberbullying victimization and alexithymia are associated with cyberbullying perpetration. Moreover, alexithymia mediated the associations between cyberbullying victimization and adolescents’ cyberbullying perpetration. Consequently, we suggest that the ability to describe and identify one’s own feelings might be important for understanding the link between cyberbullying, victimization, and perpetration. The results may help develop prevention and intervention programs focused on reducing cyberbullying.
Prevalence and Determinants of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study in China
Authors: Xu Xianglong , Liu Ying , Liu Dengyuan , Li Xiaoming , Rao Yunshuang , Sharma Manoj , Zhao Yong
Published: December 2017

Objectives: This study aimed to identify the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to examine its associations with social and behavioral factors, maternal body mass index (BMI), anemia, and hypertension. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was performed on data collected from 2345 pregnant women from 16 hospitals in five selected provinces in mainland China. Results: Prevalence of GDM was as follows: overall: 3.7%; pregnant women in the first pregnancy: 3.4%; pregnant women in the second pregnancy: 4.6%. Compared with early pregnancy women, late-stage pregnant women were more likely to have GDM (OR = 4.32, 95% CI (1.82, 10.27)). Compared with 18–25 years old pregnant women, women aged 36–45 years were more likely to have GDM (OR = 3.98, 95% CI (1.41, 11.28). Compared with non-hypertensive patients, hypertensive patients were more likely to have GDM (OR = 6.93, 95% CI (1.28, 37.64)). However, second pregnancy, high maternal BMI, prolonged screen time (TV-viewing time, computer-using time, and mobile-phone using time), insufficient and excessive sleep duration, poor sleep quality, smoking, and secondhand smoke exposure were not significantly associated with an increased risk of GDM. Conclusions: Women in the second pregnancy do not appear to predict an increased risk for developing GDM than women in the first pregnancy. High-risk groups of GDM included women in their late pregnancy, aged 36–45 years old, and with hypertension. The findings will contribute to an improved understanding of social and behavioral determinants of GDM in Chinese population and contribute to the development of health-prevention promotion interventions to address GDM.
Primary Culture of Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma: Molecular Characterization and Response to Anticancer Agents
Authors: De Vita Alessandro , Recine Federica , Mercatali Laura , Miserocchi Giacomo , Spadazzi Chiara , Liverani Chiara , Bongiovanni Alberto , Pieri Federica , Casadei Roberto , Riva Nada , Fausti Valentina , Amadori Dino , Ibrahim Toni
Published: December 2017

Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) is an aggressive mesenchymal neoplasm with no specific line of differentiation. Eribulin, a novel synthetic microtubule inhibitor, has shown anticancer activity in several tumors, including soft tissue sarcomas (STS). We investigated the molecular biology of UPS, and the mechanisms of action of this innovative microtubule-depolymerizing drug. A primary culture from a patient with UPS was established and characterized in terms of gene expression. The activity of eribulin was also compared with that of other drugs currently used for STS treatment, including trabectedin. Finally, Western blot analysis was performed to better elucidate the activity of eribulin. Our results showed an upregulation of epithelial mesenchymal transition-related genes, and a downregulation of epithelial markers. Furthermore, genes involved in chemoresistance were upregulated. Pharmacological analysis confirmed limited sensitivity to chemotherapy. Interestingly, eribulin exhibited a similar activity to that of standard treatments. Molecular analysis revealed the expression of cell cycle arrest-related and pro-apoptotic-related proteins. These findings are suggestive of aggressive behavior in UPS. Furthermore, the identification of chemoresistance-related genes could facilitate the development of innovative drugs to improve patient outcome. Overall, the results from the present study furnish a rationale for elucidating the role of eribulin for the treatment of UPS.
Parameterised Model of 2D Combustor Exit Flow Conditions for High-Pressure Turbine Simulations
Authors: Schneider Marius , Schiffer Heinz-Peter , Lehmann Knut
Published: December 2017

An algorithm is presented generating a complete set of inlet boundary conditions for Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes computational fluid dynamics (RANS CFD) of high-pressure turbines to investigate their interaction with lean and rich burn combustors. The method shall contribute to understanding the sensitivities of turbine aerothermal performance in a systematic approach. The boundary conditions are based on a set of input parameters controlling velocity, temperature, and turbulence fields. All other quantities are derived from operating conditions and additional modelling assumptions. The algorithm is coupled with a CFD solver by applying the generated profiles as inlet boundary conditions. The successive steps to derive consistent flow profiles are described and results are validated against flow fields extracted from combustor CFD.
Relative Quality and Popularity Evaluation of Multilingual Wikipedia Articles
Authors: Lewoniewski Włodzimierz , Węcel Krzysztof , Abramowicz Witold
Published: December 2017

Despite the fact that Wikipedia is often criticized for its poor quality, it continues to be one of the most popular knowledge bases in the world. Articles in this free encyclopedia on various topics can be created and edited in about 300 different language versions independently. Our research has showed that in language sensitive topics, the quality of information can be relatively better in the relevant language versions. However, in most cases, it is difficult for the Wikipedia readers to determine the language affiliation of the described subject. Additionally, each language edition of Wikipedia can have own rules in the manual assessing of the content’s quality. There are also differences in grading schemes between language versions: some use a 6–8 grade system to assess articles, and some are limited to 2–3. This makes automatic quality comparison of articles between various languages a challenging task, particularly if we take into account a large number of unassessed articles; some of the Wikipedia language editions have over 99% of articles without a quality grade. The paper presents the results of a relative quality and popularity assessment of over 28 million articles in 44 selected language versions. Comparative analysis of the quality and the popularity of articles in popular topics was also conducted. Additionally, the correlation between quality and popularity of Wikipedia articles of selected topics in various languages was investigated. The proposed method allows us to find articles with information of better quality that can be used to automatically enrich other language editions of Wikipedia.
Determining the Frequency of Dry Lake Bed Formation in Semi-Arid Mongolia From Satellite Data
Authors: Demura Yuta , Hoshino Buho , Baba Kenji , McCarthy Christopher , Sofue Yuki , Kai Kenji , Purevsuren Tsedendamba , Hagiwara Katsuro , Noda Jun
Published: December 2017

In the Mongolian Plateau, the desert steppe, mountains, and dry lake bed surfaces may affect the process of dust storm emissions. Among these three surface types, dry lake beds are considered to contribute a substantial amount of global dust emissions and to be responsible for “hot spots” of dust outbreaks. The land cover types in the study area were broadly divided into three types, namely desert steppe, mountains, and dry lake beds, by a classification based on Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) calculated from MODIS Terra satellite images, and Digital Elevation Model (DEM). This dry lake beds extracting method using remote sensing offers a new technique for identifying dust hot spots and potential untapped groundwater in the dry lands of the Gobi region. In the study area, frequencies of dry lake bed formation were calculated during the period of 2001 to 2014. The potential dry lake area corresponded well with the length of the river network based on hydrogeological characterization (R2 = 0.77, p < 0.001). We suggest that the threshold between dry lake bed areas and the formation of ephemeral lakes in semi-arid regions is eight days of total precipitation.
Preparation and Investigation of Foaming Amphiphilic Fluorinated Nanoparticles for Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Wang Keliang , Wang Gang , Lu Chunjing , Pei Cuiying , Wang Ying
Published: December 2017

Amphiphilic nanoparticles have attracted increasing interest as Pickering emulsifiers owing to the combined advantages of both traditional surfactants and homogeneous particles. Here, foaming amphiphilic fluorinated nanoparticles were prepared for enhanced oil recovery by the toposelective surface modification method. The structure and properties of amphiphilic nanoparticles were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, a laser diffraction method, fluorescence microscopy, a pendant drop tensiometer, and foamscan. It was found that the amphiphilic fluorinated nanoparticles exhibited significant interfacial activity at the air–water interface and generated stabilized aqueous foams against coalescence and drainage even in the absence of surfactants. When the particle concentration reached 0.6 wt %, the adsorption of the amphiphilic nanoparticles at the interface was saturated and the equilibrium surface tension dropped to around 32.7 mN/m. When the particle concentration reached 0.4 wt %, the Gibbs stability criterion was fulfilled. The amphiphilic nanoparticles foam system has a better plugging capacity and enhanced oil recovery capacity. The results obtained provide fundamental insights into the understanding of the self-assembly behavior and foam properties of amphiphilic fluorinated nanoparticles and further demonstrate the future potential of the amphiphilic nanoparticles used as colloid surfactants for enhanced oil recovery applications.
Investigation of Saturation Effects in Ceramic Phosphors for Laser Lighting
Authors: Krasnoshchoka Anastasiia , Thorseth Anders , Dam-Hansen Carsten , Corell Dennis Dan , Petersen Paul Michael , Jensen Ole Bjarlin
Published: December 2017

We report observations of saturation effects in a Ce:LuAG and Eu-doped nitride ceramic phosphor for conversion of blue laser light for white light generation. The luminous flux from the phosphors material increases linearly with the input power until saturation effects limit the conversion. It is shown that the temperature of the phosphor layer influences the saturation power level and the conversion efficiency. It is also shown that the correlated color temperature (CCT), phosphor conversion efficiency and color rendering index (CRI) are dependent both on the incident power and spot size diameter of the illumination. A phosphor conversion efficiency up to 140.8 lm/W with CRI of 89.4 was achieved. The saturation in a ceramic phosphor, when illuminated by high intensity laser diodes, is estimated to play the main role in limiting the available luminance from laser-based lighting systems.
The Cladophora glomerata Enriched by Biosorption Process in Cr(III) Improves Viability, and Reduces Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Equine Metabolic Syndrome Derived Adipose Mesenchymal Stromal Stem Cells (ASCs) and Their Extracellular Vesicles (MV’s)
Authors: Marycz Krzysztof , Michalak Izabela , Kocherova Ievgeniia , Marędziak Monika , Weiss Christine
Published: December 2017

This study investigated in vitro effects of freshwater alga Cladophora glomerata water extract enriched during a biosorption process in Cr(III) trivalent chromium and chromium picolinate on adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal stem cells (ASCs) and extracellular microvesicles (MVs) in equine metabolic syndrome-affected horses. Chemical characterisation of natural Cladophora glomerata was performed with special emphasis on: vitamin C, vitamin E, total phenols, fatty acids, free and protein-bound amino acids as well as measured Cr in algal biomass. To examine the influence of Cladophora glomerata water extracts, in vitro viability, oxidative stress factor accumulation, apoptosis, inflammatory response, biogenesis of mitochondria, autophagy in ASCs of EMS and secretory activity manifested by MV release were investigated. For this purpose, various methods of molecular biology and microscopic observations (i.e., immunofluorescence staining, SEM, TEM, FIB observations, mRNA and microRNA expression by RT-qPCR) were applied. The extract of Cladophora glomerata enriched with Cr(III) ions reduced apoptosis and inflammation in ASCs of EMS horses through improvement of mitochondrial dynamics, decreasing of PDK4 expression and reduction of endoplastic reticulum stress. Moreover, it was found, that Cladophora glomerata and Cr(III) induce antioxidative protection coming from enhanced SOD activity Therefore, Cladophora glomerata enriched with Cr(III) ions might become an interesting future therapeutic agent in the pharmacological treatment of EMS horses.
From α-Bromomethylbutenolide to Fused Tri(Tetra) Cyclic Dihydrofurandiones through Barbier Reaction–Heck Arylation Sequence
Authors: Talbi Arbia , Gaucher Anne , Bourdreux Flavien , Marrot Jérôme , Efrit Mohamed , M’Rabet Hédi , Prim Damien
Published: December 2017

A Barbier reaction–Heck arylation sequence from α-bromomethylbutenolide to fused tri and tetracyclic lactones has been developed. The first step involving a Barbier reaction enabled installing ortho-bromoaromatics in α-ylidene γ-lactones. The latter substrates were subjected to intramolecular Heck reaction conditions which selectively afforded 6,5,5 or 6,6,5 fused ring systems depending on the nature of the base employed.
In Vitro Evaluation of Cytotoxicity and Permeation Study on Lysine- and Arginine-Based Lipopeptides with Proven Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Dawgul Malgorzata , Greber Katarzyna , Bartoszewska Sylwia , Baranska-Rybak Wioletta , Sawicki Wieslaw , Kamysz Wojciech
Published: December 2017

Owing to their excellent antimicrobial activities with a relatively low cost of production, lipopeptides are being intensively investigated as potential alternatives to popular antimicrobials. However, a critical obstacle for their application is a relatively high toxicity, hence a lot of attention has been paid to designing new molecules with optimal properties. In this study we synthesized the following lipopeptides: C16-KK-NH2, C16-KεK-NH2, C16-KKK-NH2, C16-KRK-NH2, C16-RR-NH2, C16-RRR-NH2, (C10)2-KKKK-NH2 and (C12)2-KKKK-NH2. Their antimicrobial activity against representative strains of Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria and fungi has been confirmed. The compounds have been evaluated with regard to the safety of their application in dermatology. The cytotoxicity was determined in HaCaT keratinocytes using MTT assay, whereas Strat M membranes placed in Franz diffusion cells were used to assess their ability to skin permeation. The compounds containing one hexadecanoic acid chain turned out to be very toxic towards human keratinocytes, while lipopeptides containing two fatty acid chains (decanoic and dodecanoic) demonstrated much lower cytotoxicity. For the most promising lipopeptide, (C10)2-KKKK-NH2, the measured IC50 on HaCaT keratinocytes was few times higher as compared to MICs obtained for the tested bacteria. Both groups of lipopeptides did not permeate the model membranes and therefore lack of permeation through human skin could be expected. The results of this work encourage further research on the potential application of lipopeptides with two fatty acids as novel antimicrobials.
Preparation of β-CD-Ellagic Acid Microspheres and Their Effects on HepG2 Cell Proliferation
Authors: Wang Hongkai , Zhang Yingxia , Tian Zhongjing , Ma Jing , Kang Meiling , Ding Chengshi , Ming Dongfeng
Published: December 2017

Objective: In this study, β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was chosen as the coating for ellagic acid to prepare ellagic acid microspheres, and the effect of microspheres on the growth of HepG2 cells was observed. Methods: Scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and release rate analysis were used to identify the formation of ellagic acid microspheres. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay was used to detect the effect of different concentrations of ellagic acid microspheres on tumor cell proliferation at 6, 12, 24 and 36 h, and cell morphology and quantity were observed using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Single-cell gel electrophoresis was used to observe the effect of ellagic acid microspheres on the DNA damage of HepG2 cells, and the Olive tail moment and the mRNA expression of tumor suppressor protein gene p53 was measured. Results: β-CD could be used as wrapping material of ellagic acid to prepare ellagic acid microspheres. HepG2 cell proliferation could be inhibited by 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 g/L of ellagic acid microspheres in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and the mechanism of proliferation inhibition was related to DNA damage and cell apoptosis. Conclusion: Preparing ellagic acid microspheres with β-CD is feasible, and ellagic acid microspheres have potential therapeutic value (anticancer).
Chemical Constituents from Euphorbia kansui
Authors: Zhang Qiao , Zhou Qin-Rong , Lou Jian-Wei , Chen Pei-Dong , Yao Wei-Feng , Tao Wei-Wei , Tang Yu-Ping , Dai Guan-Cheng , Wang Kun , Zhang Li
Published: December 2017

In this research, a new triterpenoid, tirucalla-8,24-diene-3β,11β-diol-7-one (1), and eupha-8,24-diene-3β,11β-diol-7-one (2), which was isolated from Euphorbia kansui for the first time, together with twelve other known compounds (3–14), were isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of Euphorbia kansui. Their structures were elucidated based on High resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS), Infrared Spectroscopy (IR), 1D and 2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) data. Both constituents 1 and 2 exhibited moderate cytotoxicity against colon cancer HCT-116, gastric cancer MKN-45 and breast cancer MCF-7.
Cellulose Nanofibers Prepared via Pretreatment Based on Oxone® Oxidation
Authors: Ruan Chang-Qing , Gustafsson Simon , Strømme Maria , Mihranyan Albert , Lindh Jonas
Published: December 2017

Softwood sulfite bleached cellulose pulp was oxidized with Oxone® and cellulose nanofibers (CNF) were produced after mechanical treatment with a high-shear homogenizer. UV-vis transmittance of dispersions of oxidized cellulose with different degrees of mechanical treatment was recorded. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs and atomic force microscopy (AFM) images of samples prepared from the translucent dispersions showed individualized cellulose nanofibers with a width of about 10 nm and lengths of a few hundred nm. All results demonstrated that more translucent CNF dispersions could be obtained after the pretreatment of cellulose pulp by Oxone® oxidation compared with the samples produced without pretreatment. The intrinsic viscosity of the cellulose decreased after oxidation and was further reduced after mechanical treatment. Almost translucent cellulose films were prepared from the dispersions of individualized cellulose nanofibers. The procedure described herein constitutes a green, novel, and efficient route to access CNF.
Novel Chiral Bis-Phosphoramides as Organocatalysts for Tetrachlorosilane-Mediated Reactions
Authors: Rossi Sergio , Ziliani Marco , Annunziata Rita , Benaglia Maurizio
Published: December 2017

The formation of novel chiral bidentate phosphoroamides structures able to promote Lewis base-catalyzed Lewis acid-mediated reactions was investigated. Two different classes of phosphoroamides were synthetized: the first class presents a phthalic acid/primary diamine moiety, designed with the aim to perform a self-assembly recognition process through hydrogen bonds; the second one is characterized by the presence of two phosphoroamides as side arms connected to a central pyridine unit, able to chelate SiCl4 in a 2:1 adduct. These species were tested as organocatalysts in the stereoselective allylation of benzaldehyde and a few other aromatic aldehydes with allyl tributyltin in the presence of SiCl4 with good results. NMR studies confirm that only pyridine-based phosphoroamides effectively coordinate tetrachlorosilane and may lead to the generation of a self-assembled entity that would act as a promoter of the reaction. Although further work is necessary to clarify and confirm the formation of the hypothesized adduct, the study lays the foundation for the design and the synthesis of chiral supramolecular organocatalysts.
Protein Adequacy Is Primarily a Matter of Protein Quantity, Not Quality: Modeling an Increase in Plant:Animal Protein Ratio in French Adults
Authors: De Gavelle Erwan , Huneau Jean-François , Bianchi Clélia , Verger Eric , Mariotti François
Published: December 2017

A downward trend in animal protein (AP) intake has been observed in western countries over the last decade and the effects of such a transition on protein adequacy remain debatable. Using the probability approach and diet modeling with data on 1678 adults from a representative French national dietary survey, we studied the sensitivity of the adequacy of protein and amino acid intakes to changes in animal:plant protein. We simulated the gradual substitution of AP with different mixtures of plant protein (PP), containing various proportions of PP already consumed and legumes, nuts and seeds (LNS). We found that protein and amino acid intakes met dietary requirements in virtually the entire population studied. Up to 50% of PP in diets, protein and amino acid intakes were adequate in all models. From 50%, protein inadequacy was primary due to protein quantity, and from 70%, to protein quality (as lysine inadequacy). The introduction of LNS in the mixture substituting AP led to adequate protein intakes for higher percentages of PP. An increase in PP based on the current pattern of plant protein sources, low in protein:energy, could lead to inadequate protein intake, but the contribution of LNS ensures the safety of a further transition.
Metal and Ligand Effects on the Construction of Divalent Coordination Polymers Based on bis-Pyridyl-bis-amide and Polycarboxylate Ligands
Authors: Chang Miao-Ning , Yang Xiang-Kai , Chhetri Pradhumna Mahat , Chen Jhy-Der
Published: December 2017

Ten coordination polymers constructed from divalent metal salts, polycarboxylic acids, and bis-pyridyl-bis-amide ligands with different donor atom positions and flexibility are reported. They were structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The ten coordination polymers are as follows: (1) {[Ni(L1)(3,5-PDA)(H2O)3]·2H2O}n (L1 = N,N′-di(3-pyridyl)suberoamide, 3,5-H2PDA = 3,5-pyridinedicarboxylic acid); (2) {[Ni2(L1)2(1,3,5-HBTC)2(H2O)4]·H2O}n (1,3,5-H3BTC = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid); (3) {[Ni(L2)(5-tert-IPA)(H2O)2]·2H2O}n (L2 = N,N′-di(3-pyridyl)adipoamide, 5-tert-H2IPA = 5-tert-butylisophthalic acid); (4) [Ni(L3)1.5(5-tert-IPA)]n (L3 = N,N′-di(4-pyridyl)adipoamide); (5) [Co(L1)(1,3,5-HBTC)(H2O)]n; (6) {[Co3(L1)3(1,3,5-BTC)2(H2O)2]·6H2O}n; (7) [Cu(L4)(AIPA)]n (L4 = N,N′-bis(3-pyridinyl)terephthalamide, H2AIPA = 5-acetamido isophthalic acid); (8) {[Cu(L2)0.5(AIPA)]·MeOH}n; (9) {[Zn(L4)(AIPA)]·2H2O}n; and (10) {[Zn(L2)(AIPA)]·2H2O}n. Complex 1 forms a 1D chain and 2 is a two-fold interpenetrated 2D layer with the sql topology, while 3 is a 2D layer with the hcp topology and 4 shows a self-catenated 3D framework with the rare (42·67·8)-hxg-d-5-C2/c topology. Different Co/1,3,5-H3BTC ratios were used to prepare 5 and 6, affording a 2D layer with the sql topology and a 2D layer with the (4·85)2(4)2(83)2(8) topology that can be further simplified to an hcp topology. While complex 7 is a 2D layer with the (42·67·8)(42·6)-3,5L2 topology and 8 is a 2-fold interpenetrated 3D framework with the pcu topology, complexes 9 and 10 are self-catenated 3D frameworks with the (424·64)-8T2 and the (44·610·8)-mab topologies, respectively. The effects of the identity of the metal center, the ligand isomerism, and the flexibility of the spacer ligands on the structural diversity of these divalent coordination polymers are discussed. The luminescent properties of 9 and 10 and their photocatalytic effects on the degradation of dyes are also investigated.