bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Expanded Transcanal Transpromontorial Approach: A Novel Surgical Technique for Cerebellopontine Angle Vestibular Schwannoma Removal
Authors: Marchioni Daniele , Carner Marco , Soloperto Davide , Bianconi Luca , Sacchetto Andrea , Sacchetto Luca , Masotto Barbara , Presutti Livio 
Published: February 2018

ObjectiveVestibular schwannoma (VS) is a benign tumor of the lateral skull base. Different microscopic surgical techniques are described in literature: the retrosigmoid and translabyrinthine approaches are used to treat big tumors located in the cerebellopontine angle, and the middle cranial fossa approach is utilized for small tumors with good hearing preservation. The expanded transcanal transpromontorial (ExpTT) approach is a combined microscopic‐endoscopic technique previously indicated for Koos stage I and II VS and now proposed for larger VS, up to 3 cm in diameter, with linear progression into the cerebellopontine angle and touching the brainstem.Study DesignThe study was a retrospective case series of patients who underwent ExpTT surgery for VS in our ear, nose, and throat department.SettingWe reviewed the surgical videos and electrophysiologic data recorded during the surgical operations.Subjects and MethodsFrom January 2015 to January 2017, 20 patients affected by Koos stage II and III VS underwent surgery in our department with the ExpTT approach. This novel technique is described step by step, with a focus on the surgical procedure and anatomic landmarks; outcomes are detailed in terms of early and late complications. The mean follow‐up was 15 months.ResultsThe ExpTT approach permitted, in all patients, gross total resection of the tumor without any complication and with preservation of facial nerve function. All patients had a good postoperative recovery.ConclusionThe ExpTT technique is a new approach that combines the advantages of a microscopic technique with the ones offered by the endoscope in removal of VS.
The First Year of Global Cleft Surgery Education Through Digital Simulation
Authors: Plana Natalie M. , Diaz-Siso J. Rodrigo , Culnan Derek M. , Cutting Court B. , Flores Roberto L. 
Published: February 2018

Introduction: Parallel to worldwide disparities in patient access to health care, the operative opportunities of surgical trainees are increasingly restricted across the globe. Efforts have been directed toward enhancing surgical education outside the operating room and reducing the wide variability in global trainee operative experience. However, high costs and other logistical concerns may limit the reproducibility and sustainability of nonoperative surgical education resources. Methods: A partnership between the academic, nonprofit, and industry sectors resulted in the development of an online virtual surgical simulator for cleft repair. First year global access patterns were observed. Results: The simulator is freely accessible online and includes 5 normal and pathologic anatomy modules, 5 modules demonstrating surgical markings, and 7 step-by-step procedural modules. Procedural modules include high-definition intraoperative footage to supplement the virtual animation in addition to include multiple-choice test questions. In its first year, the simulator was accessed by 849 novel users from 78 countries; 70% of users accessed the simulator from a developing nation. Conclusion: The Internet shows promise as a platform for surgical education and may help address restrictions and reduce disparities in surgical training. The virtual surgical simulator presented may serve as the foundation for the development of a global curriculum in cleft repair.
Liquid biopsy and its role in an advanced clinical trial for lung cancer
Authors: Johann Donald J , Steliga Mathew , Shin Ik Jae , Yoon Donghoon , Arnaoutakis Konstantinos , Hutchins Laura , Liu Meeiyueh , Liem Jason , Walker Karl , Pereira Andy , Yang Mary , Jeffus Susanne K , Peterson Erich , Xu Joshua 
Published: February 2018

Liquid biopsy methodologies, for the purpose of plasma genotyping of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) of solid tumors, are a new class of novel molecular assays. Such assays are rapidly entering the clinical sphere of research-based monitoring in translational oncology, especially for thoracic malignancies. Potential applications for these blood-based cfDNA assays include: (i) initial diagnosis, (ii) response to therapy and follow-up, (iii) tumor evolution, and (iv) minimal residual disease evaluation. Precision medicine will benefit from cutting-edge molecular diagnostics, especially regarding treatment decisions in the adjuvant setting, where avoiding over-treatment and unnecessary toxicity are paramount. The use of innovative genetic analysis techniques on individual patient tumor samples is being pursued in several advanced clinical trials. Rather than using a categorical treatment plan, the next critical step of therapeutic decision making is providing the “right” cancer therapy for an individual patient, including correct dose and timeframe based on the molecular analysis of the tumor in question. Per the 21st Century Cures Act, innovative clinical trials are integral for biomarker and drug development. This will include advanced clinical trials utilizing: (i) innovative assays, (ii) molecular profiling with cutting-edge bioinformatics, and (iii) clinically relevant animal or tissue models. In this paper, a mini-review addresses state-of-the-art liquid biopsy approaches. Additionally, an on-going advanced clinical trial for lung cancer with novelty through synergizing liquid biopsies, co-clinical trials, and advanced bioinformatics is also presented. Impact statement Liquid biopsy technology is providing a new source for cancer biomarkers, and adds new dimensions in advanced clinical trials. Utilizing a non-invasive routine blood draw, the liquid biopsy provides abilities to address perplexing issues of tumor tissue heterogeneity by identifying mutations in both primary and metastatic lesions. Regarding the assessment of response to cancer therapy, the liquid biopsy is not ready to replace medical imaging, but adds critical new information; for instance, through a temporal assessment of quantitative circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) assay results, and importantly, the ability to monitor for signs of resistance, via emerging clones. Adjuvant therapy may soon be considered based on a quantitative cfDNA assay. As sensitivity and specificity of the technology continue to progress, cancer screening and prevention will improve and save countless lives by finding the cancer early, so that a routine surgery may be all that is required for a definitive cure.
Restriction of Passive Glenohumeral Abduction Combined With Normal Passive External Rotation Is a Diagnostic Feature of Calcific Tendinitis
Authors: Jungwirth-Weinberger Anna , Gerber Christian , Boyce Glenn , Jentzsch Thorsten , Roner Simon , Meyer Dominik C. 
Published: February 2018

Background: Passive glenohumeral range of motion may be characteristically limited to specific shoulder pathologies. While pain associated with loss of range of passive external glenohumeral rotation is recognized as a salient feature in adhesive capsulitis, restriction of glenohumeral range of motion in calcific tendinitis of the supraspinatus tendon has never been studied. Hypothesis: On the basis of clinical observation, we hypothesized that calcific tendinitis of the supraspinatus tendon is associated with loss of passive glenohumeral abduction without loss of external rotation. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Ranges of passive glenohumeral rotation and abduction, which are measured with a standardized protocol in our institution, were retrospectively reviewed and compared for patients diagnosed with either adhesive capsulitis or calcific tendinitis of the supraspinatus tendon. A total of 57 patients met the inclusion criteria for the calcific tendinitis, and 77 met the inclusion criteria for the adhesive capsulitis group. Results: When compared with the contralateral, unaffected shoulder, glenohumeral abduction in the calcific tendinitis group was restricted by a median of 10° (interquartile range [IQR], –20° to –5°) as opposed to glenohumeral external rotation, which was not restricted at all (median, 0°; IQR, 0° to 0°). The adhesive capsulitis group showed a median restriction of glenohumeral abduction of 40° (IQR, –50° to –30°) and a median restriction of passive glenohumeral external rotation of 40° (IQR, –60° to –30°). Conclusion: Calcific tendinitis of the supraspinatus does not typically cause loss of external rotation but is frequently associated with mild isolated restriction of abduction. This finding can be used to clinically differentiate adhesive capsulitis from calcific tendinitis.
Mathematical description of tooth flank surface of globoidal worm gear with straight axial tooth profile
Authors: Połowniak Piotr , Sobolak Mariusz 
Published: February 2018

AbstractIn this article, a mathematical description of tooth flank surface of the globoidal worm and worm wheel generated by the hourglass worm hob with straight tooth axial profile is presented. The kinematic system of globoidal worm gear is shown. The equation of globoid helix and tooth axial profile of worm is derived to determine worm tooth surface. Based on the equation of meshing the contact lines are obtained. The mathematical description of globoidal worm wheel tooth flank is performed on the basis of contact lines and generating the tooth side by the extreme cutting edge of worm hob. The presented mathematical model of tooth flank of TA worm and worm wheel can be used e.g. to analyse the contact pattern of the gear.
Structural changes at the myrtenol backbone reverse its positive allosteric potential into inhibitory GABAA receptor modulation
Authors: Milanos Sinem , Kuenzel Katharina , Gilbert Daniel F. , Janzen Dieter , Sasi Manju , Buettner Andrea , Frimurer Thomas M. , Villmann Carmen 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
GABAA receptors are ligand-gated anion channels that form pentameric arrangements of various subunits. Positive allosteric modulators of GABAA receptors have been reported as being isolated either from plants or synthesized analogs of known GABAA receptor targeting drugs. Recently, we identified monoterpenes, e.g. myrtenol as a positive allosteric modulator at α1β2 GABAA receptors. Here, along with pharmacophore-based virtual screening studies, we demonstrate that scaffold modifications of myrtenol resulted in the loss of modulatory activity. Two independent approaches, fluorescence-based compound analysis and electrophysiological recordings in whole-cell configurations were used for analysis of transfected cells. C-atoms 1 and 2 of the myrtenol backbone were identified as crucial to preserve positive allosteric potential. A modification at C-atom 2 and lack of the hydroxyl group at C-atom 1 exhibited significantly reduced GABAergic currents at α1β2, α1β2γ, α2β3, α2β3γ and α4β3δ receptors. This effect was independent of the γ2 subunit. A sub-screen with side chain length and volume differences at the C-atom 1 identified two compounds that inhibited GABAergic responses but without receptor subtype specificity. Our combined approach of pharmacophore-based virtual screening and functional readouts reveals that side chain modifications of the bridged six-membered ring structure of myrtenol are crucial for its modulatory potential at GABAA receptors.
The discursive construction and realization of the Hong Kong brand: a corpus-informed study
Authors: Lam Phoenix W. Y. 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Branding is essentially discursive in nature and yet discourse studies of branding are surprisingly few in number. The present study is a rare attempt to examine how branding, in particular place branding, can be conceptualized and operationalized linguistically through the investigation of a corpus of marketing texts on the official branding of Hong Kong. A quantitative analysis using corpus tools and techniques was first conducted to identify the main textual patterns based on frequency information. A qualitative analysis then followed to investigate the dominant textual patterns in context in order to uncover the branding strategies used and their associated linguistic realizations. Findings from the present study reveal that the branding discourse of Hong Kong is strongly business-oriented, largely constructed through taken-for-granted qualities, and heavily reliant on the technical branding jargon. Such findings can be directly compared with those from traditional marketing research to pinpoint any inconsistencies between official branding policies and consumers’ perceptions. This will in turn provide more concrete suggestions to help bridge the divide, if any, between brand creators, consumers and other stakeholders involved, and ultimately promote more inclusive branding for all.
Maxwell-Like Equations for Free Dirac Electrons
Authors: Bruce S.A. 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
In this article, we show that the wave equation for a free Dirac electron can be represented in a form that is analogous to Maxwell’s electrodynamics. The electron bispinor wavefunction is explicitly expressed in terms of its real and imaginary components. This leads us to incorporate into it appropriate scalar and pseudo-scalar fields in advance, so that a full symmetry may be accomplished. The Dirac equation then takes on a form similar to that of a set of inhomogeneous Maxwell’s equations involving a particular self-source. We relate plane wave solutions of these equations to waves corresponding to free Dirac electrons, identifying the longitudinal component of the electron motion, together with the corresponding Zitterbewegung (“trembling motion”).
Quantum Space Charge Waves in a Waveguide Filled with Fermi-Dirac Plasmas Including Relativistic Wake Field and Quantum Statistical Pressure Effects
Authors: Hong Woo-Pyo , Jung Young-Dae 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
The effects of quantum statistical degeneracy pressure on the propagation of the quantum space charge wave are investigated in a cylindrically bounded plasma waveguide filled with relativistically degenerate quantum Fermi-Dirac plasmas and the relativistic ion wake field. The results show that the domain of the degenerate parameter for the resonant beam instability significantly increases with an increase of the scaled beam velocity. It is found that the instability domain of the wave number increases with an increase of the degenerate parameter. It is also found that the growth rate for the resonant beam instability decreases with an increase of the degenerate parameter. In addition, it is shown that the lowest harmonic mode provides the maximum value of the growth rates. Moreover, it is shown that the instability domain of the wave number decreases with an increase of the beam velocity.
Gait Speed and Dynamic Stability Decline Accelerates Only in Late Life: A Cross-sectional Study in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Lee Anna , Bhatt Tanvi , Smith-Ray Renae L. , Wang Edward , Pai Yi-Chung (Clive) 
Published: February 2018

Background and Purpose:
Incidence of falls increases with age whereas gait speed declines. The purposes of this study were to examine (1) whether gait speed and center-of-mass (COM) velocity declined steadily across ages in a linear fashion among community-dwelling older adults, and (2) whether such decline corresponded to the similar decline in dynamic stability, which is governed by the control of their COM position and COM velocity relative to base of support (BOS).

Methods:
A total of 184 community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years) participated in the cross-sectional study. The participants were categorized into 5 age groups (65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84, and 85+ years) and were asked to walk on the 7-m walkway at their preferred walking speed. Their speed, gait pattern, relative COM position, and relative COM velocity were measured.

Results:
Very close relationship was confirmed between a clinical gait speed measurement and the COM velocity (R
2 = 0.875, P < .05), which enabled us to use the 2 terms interchangeably. Gait speed decline was not noticeable from 65 to 84 years of age (P > .05), but it accelerated after 85 years of age. This decline was most likely influenced by a reduction in both step length (P < .05) and cadence (P < .05). Similarly, dynamic stability against backward loss of balance changed little between 65 and 84 years of age (P > .05). Yet, it declined significantly after 85 years of age (P < .05), primarily affected by the reduction in the COM velocity relative to the BOS, whereby the COM position relative to the BOS remained constant during their walking.

Conclusion:
Expected steady decline in gait speed and in the control of gait stability cannot be confirmed. Rather, we found that both declined precipitously only after 85 years of age, when the risk of falls is likely to increase correspondingly.
Islândia: o florescimento da ilha peruana na fronteira
Authors: Souza Alex Sandro Nascimento , Oliveira José Aldemir 
Published: February 2018

Desde una perspectiva guiada por el análisis diario en las ciudades fronterizas, se presenta un breve estudio y reflexiones sobre Islandia, en Perú. Situada a orillas del río Yavarí, frente a Benjamin Constant (Brasil), esta ciudad amazónica ha adquirido protagonismo urbano en esta zona fronteriza. Durante la última década la expresión “fronteras vivas”, procedente de una política de ocupación de las fronteras del gobierno peruano como un derecho efectivo de posesión del territorio de las personas, se concretiza en la mencionada ciudad con la implementación de obras urbanísticas como el mercado municipal, escuelas de tiempo integral e internado, centro de deportes y nuevas vías de concreto. En cuanto a la ingeniería de la várzea y el derecho a la ciudad, Islandia destaca en los últimos años frente a otras ciudades fronterizas.
Polymorphism of the genes encoding for the carnitine acyltransferases in native populations of Siberia
Authors: Malyarchuk Boris A. , Derenko Miroslava V. 
Published: February 2018

Background. Exome polymorphism is a rich source of information on the structure and function of proteins and metabolic pathways. The traditional diet of native populations of Northeast Asia (Eskimos, Chukchi and Koryaks) is enriched with fatty acids, which presupposes the existence of adaptive rearrangements of the lipid metabolism system among northern aborigines. Carnitine acyltransferases are the most important group of enzymes that metabolize fatty acids.
Materials and methods. To study adaptive changes in the genes encoding for the carnitine acyltransferases, we performed a screening of polymorphisms in the exons of CPT1A, CPT1B, CPT1C, CPT2, CRAT, and CROT genes in various populations of native inhabitants of Siberia.
Results. In exons of five genes (with the exception of CROT), 16 non-synonymous substitutions were identified. Of these, three substitutions were detected at high frequencies in populations of Northeast Asia (in Eskimos, Chukchi and Koryaks): at the loci rs80356779 of the CPT1A gene (replacement of P479L) and rs763273578 of the CPT1C gene (T740A), as well as a new polymorphism at position 131866581 of chromosome 9 at the CRAT gene (S99F). Exome analysis showed that among native populations of Northeast Asia, new non-synonymous substitutions with high pathogenicity indices appeared in the genes of energy metabolism and lipid exchange (genes GK2, ABHD6, NCOA2, OSPL3, LRP10, TTN, and PTTG2).
Conclusion. It is assumed that new variants of non-synonymous polymorphism arose as a result of genetic adaptation of native peoples to the extremely cold climate and a specific Arctic diet of aborigines of the Far North.
Performance Evaluation of IEEE 802.15.4-based Wireless Body Sensor Networks: An Experimental Study
Authors: Moravejosharieh Amir Hossein 
Published: February 2018

One of the most challenging issues in IEEE 802.15.4-based Wireless Body Sensor Networks (WBSNs) is the mutual interference caused by neighbouring WBSNs. As the number of co-located such sensor networks becomes larger in a frequency channel, the destructive impact of mutual interference becomes stronger and eventually causes significant performance degradation mainly due to inefficient channel utilisation. In this paper, we have proposed a new scheme called “dynamic-phase-shifting” in which a WBSN is able to shift its beacon packets to other phases (time slot) to eventually find a phase with reasonably higher performance gain. A set of performance measures along with two experimental scenarios are used to evaluate the performance of dynamic-phase shifting scheme compared to a baseline scheme that follows IEEE 802.15.4 protocol standard. The obtained results show that dynamic-phase-shifting scheme is not only feasible to be implemented on real sensor devices but also, it outperforms IEEE 802.15.4 standard in terms of the considered performance measures.
Influenza vaccines manufacturing in continuous cell lines: problems and solutions
Authors: Romanova Julia 
Published: February 2018

ABSTRACT
In order to decrease the morbidity and mortality caused by seasonal influenza outbreaks, several hundred million vaccine doses are produced worldwide each year. The predominant substrate for the production of the influenza vaccine today is fertilized hen’s eggs. The substitution of the technology based on living organisms by the cell culture-based process offers many advantages, including easier scalability and reduced dependence on the availability of eggs. The African green monkey kidney and Madin Darby canine kidney cell lines support the efficient growth of influenza viruses of different subtypes and, therefore, are considered to be the two most promising alternative substrates for the production of the human influenza vaccine.
However, the pH of endosomes in both of these cell lines is higher than the pH essential for triggering a conformational change of the hemagglutinin (HA) of human influenza viruses, which enables the viral-cellular membrane fusion. This mismatch gives rise to mutations in the HA that lead to an increase of the optimum pH of HA conformational change. As of a result of these mismatches, the HA, and consequently the whole virus, has reduced stability to low pH and elevated temperatures. The production of a vaccine from less stable virus will lead to an elevated HA content in the low pH conformation that can affect the safety, potency, infectivity, and protective efficacy of the final inactivated and live attenuated influenza vaccines.
The main limitations of the cell line-based influenza vaccine technology and the possibilities to preserve the viral stability over the course of influenza vaccine production are discussed in the review.