bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of the electrolyte’s pH on the properties of electrochemically deposited hydroxyapatite coating on additively manufactured Ti64 alloy
Authors: Vladescu Alina , Vranceanu Diana M. , Kulesza Slawek , Ivanov Alexey N. , Bramowicz Mirosław , Fedonnikov Alexander S. , Braic Mariana , Norkin Igor A. , Koptyug Andrey , Kurtukova Maria O. , Dinu Mihaela , Pana Iulian , Surmeneva Maria A. , Surmenev Roman A. , Cotrut Cosmin M. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractProperties of the hydroxyapatite obtained by electrochemical assisted deposition (ED) are dependent on several factors including deposition temperature, electrolyte pH and concentrations, applied potential. All of these factors directly influence the morphology, stoichiometry, crystallinity, electrochemical behaviour, and particularly the coating thickness. Coating structure together with surface micro- and nano-scale topography significantly influence early stages of the implant bio-integration. The aim of this study is to analyse the effect of pH modification on the morphology, corrosion behaviour and in vitro bioactivity and in vivo biocompatibility of hydroxyapatite prepared by ED on the additively manufactured Ti64 samples. The coatings prepared in the electrolytes with pH = 6 have predominantly needle like morphology with the dimensions in the nanometric scale (~30 nm). Samples coated at pH = 6 demonstrated higher protection efficiency against the corrosive attack as compared to the ones coated at pH = 5 (~93% against 89%). The in vitro bioactivity results indicated that both coatings have a greater capacity of biomineralization, compared to the uncoated Ti64. Somehow, the coating deposited at pH = 6 exhibited good corrosion behaviour and high biomineralization ability. In vivo subcutaneous implantation of the coated samples into the white rats for up to 21 days with following histological studies showed no serious inflammatory process.
Mutational analysis of TSC1 and TSC2 genes in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex patients from Greece
Authors: Avgeris Socratis , Fostira Florentia , Vagena Andromachi , Ninios Yiannis , Delimitsou Angeliki , Vodicka Radek , Vrtel Radek , Youroukos Sotirios , Stravopodis Dimitrios J. , Vlassi Metaxia , Astrinidis Aristotelis , Yannoukakos Drakoulis , Voutsinas Gerassimos E. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractTuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder causing benign tumors in the brain and other vital organs. The genes implicated in disease development are TSC1 and TSC2. Here, we have performed mutational analysis followed by a genotype-phenotype correlation study based on the clinical characteristics of the affected individuals. Twenty unrelated probands or families from Greece have been analyzed, of whom 13 had definite TSC, whereas another 7 had a possible TSC diagnosis. Using direct sequencing, we have identified pathogenic mutations in 13 patients/families (6 in TSC1 and 7 in TSC2), 5 of which were novel. The mutation identification rate for patients with definite TSC was 85%, but only 29% for the ones with a possible TSC diagnosis. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) did not reveal any genomic rearrangements in TSC1 and TSC2 in the samples with no mutations identified. In general, TSC2 disease was more severe than TSC1, with more subependymal giant cell astrocytomas and angiomyolipomas, higher incidence of pharmacoresistant epileptic seizures, and more severe neuropsychiatric disorders. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive TSC1 and TSC2 mutational analysis carried out in TSC patients in Greece.
Mitotic slippage and the subsequent cell fates after inhibition of Aurora B during tubulin-binding agent–induced mitotic arrest
Authors: Tsuda Yasuo , Iimori Makoto , Nakashima Yuichiro , Nakanishi Ryota , Ando Koji , Ohgaki Kippei , Kitao Hiroyuki , Saeki Hiroshi , Oki Eiji , Maehara Yoshihiko 
Published: November 2017

AbstractTubulin-binding agents (TBAs) are designed to target microtubule (MT) dynamics, resulting in compromised mitotic spindles and an unsatisfied spindle assembly checkpoint. The activity of Aurora B kinase is indispensable for TBA-induced mitotic arrest, and its inhibition causes mitotic slippage and postmitotic endoreduplication. However, the precise phenomenon underlying mitotic slippage, which is caused by treatment with both Aurora B inhibitors and TBAs, and the cell fate after postmitotic slippage are not completely understood. Here, we found that HeLa and breast cancer cells treated with the different types of TBAs, such as paclitaxel and eribulin (MT-stabilizing and MT-destabilizing agents, respectively), exhibited distinct behaviors of mitotic slippage on inhibition of Aurora B. In such conditions, the cell fates after postmitotic slippage vastly differed with respect to cell morphology, cell proliferation, and cytotoxicity in short-term culture; that is, the effects of inhibition of Aurora B were beneficial for cytotoxicity enhancement in eribulin treatment but not in paclitaxel. However, in long-term culture, the cells that survived after mitotic slippage underwent endoreduplication and became giant cells in both cases, resulting in cellular senescence. We propose that MT-destabilizing agents may be more appropriate than MT-stabilizing agents for treating cancer cells with a weakened Aurora B kinase activity.
Physics of Efficiency Droop in GaN:Eu Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Fragkos Ioannis E. , Dierolf Volkmar , Fujiwara Yasufumi , Tansu Nelson 
Published: November 2017

AbstractThe internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of an electrically-driven GaN:Eu based device for red light emission is analyzed in the framework of a current injection efficiency model (CIE). The excitation path of the Eu+3 ion is decomposed in a multiple level system, which includes the carrier transport phenomena across the GaN/GaN:Eu/GaN active region of the device, and the interactions among traps, Eu+3 ions and the GaN host. The identification and analysis of the limiting factors of the IQE are accomplished through the CIE model. The CIE model provides a guidance for high IQE in the electrically-driven GaN:Eu based red light emitters.
Bayesian Analysis of MicroScale Thermophoresis Data to Quantify Affinity of Protein:Protein Interactions with Human Survivin
Authors: Garcia-Bonete Maria-Jose , Jensen Maja , Recktenwald Christian V. , Rocha Sandra , Stadler Volker , Bokarewa Maria , Katona Gergely 
Published: November 2017

AbstractA biomolecular ensemble exhibits different responses to a temperature gradient depending on its diffusion properties. MicroScale Thermophoresis technique exploits this effect and is becoming a popular technique for analyzing interactions of biomolecules in solution. When comparing affinities of related compounds, the reliability of the determined thermodynamic parameters often comes into question. The thermophoresis binding curves can be assessed by Bayesian inference, which provides a probability distribution for the dissociation constant of the interacting partners. By applying Bayesian machine learning principles, binding curves can be autonomously analyzed without manual intervention and without introducing subjective bias by outlier rejection. We demonstrate the Bayesian inference protocol on the known survivin:borealin interaction and on the putative protein-protein interactions between human survivin and two members of the human Shugoshin-like family (hSgol1 and hSgol2). These interactions were identified in a protein microarray binding assay against survivin and confirmed by MicroScale Thermophoresis.
Cell-Free DNA Kinetics in a Pre-Clinical Model of Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Muhanna Nidal , Di Grappa Marco A. , Chan Harley H. L. , Khan Tahsin , Jin Cheng S. , Zheng Yangqiao , Irish Jonathan C. , Bratman Scott V. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractIn cancer patients, circulating tumour-derived DNA (ctDNA) levels imperfectly reflect disease burden apparent on medical imaging. Further evaluation of ctDNA levels over time is needed to better understand the correlation with tumour growth and therapeutic response. We describe ctDNA kinetics within an orthotopic, immunocompetent preclinical rabbit model of local-regionally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Monitoring primary tumour and metastatic lymph node volume by computed tomography (CT), we observed a correlation between ctDNA levels and tumour burden. We found that ctDNA detection could precede evidence of tumour on CT. Sensitivity and specificity of ctDNA detection in this model was 90.2% (95% C.I.: 76.9–97.3%) and 85.7% (95% C.I.: 67.3–96.0%), respectively. Rapid tumour growth followed by auto-necrosis and tumour volume contraction produced a spike in ctDNA levels, suggesting that viable tumour cells may be required for sustained ctDNA release. Following surgical resection, both ctDNA and total plasma DNA were correlated with recurrent tumour volume. Our results reveal the complex kinetic behaviour of ctDNA and total plasma DNA upon tumour growth or surgery. This pre-clinical model could be useful for future studies focused on elucidating mechanisms of ctDNA release into the circulation from primary and metastatic sites.
Spontaneous Phase Transfer-Mediated Selective Removal of Heavy Metal Ions Using Biocompatible Oleic Acid
Authors: Chang Jeehan , Yoo Sooyeon , Lee Wooju , Kim Dongchoul , Kang Taewook 
Published: November 2017

AbstractHere, we propose an environmentally benign removal technique for heavy metal ions based on selective and spontaneous transfer to oleic acid. The ions can be removed via (1) the selective and rapid complexation with the carboxylic end of oleic acid at an oleic acid/water interface, and (2) the diffusion of such complex into the oleic acid layer. A wide variety of heavy metal ions such as Cu2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, and Ni2+ can be selectively removed over K+ and Na+. For example, the concentration of Cu2+ is reduced to below 1.3 ppm within 24 h, which corresponds to the level of Cu2+ permitted by the Environmental Protection Agency. The addition of ethylenediamine ligand to the metal ion solutions is also shown to enhance the phase transfer. The removal efficiency is increased by up to 6 times when compared with that in the absence of the ligand and follows the order, Cu2+ (99%) > Pb2+ (96%) > Zn2+ (95%) > Ni2+ (65%). Moreover, the removal time can be shortened from 24 h to 1 h. The effect of an emulsion induced by a mechanical agitation on the removal of heavy metal ion is also studied.
Whitening and Impaired Glucose Utilization of Brown Adipose Tissue in a Rat Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Lapa Constantin , Arias-Loza Paula , Hayakawa Nobuyuki , Wakabayashi Hiroshi , Werner Rudolf A. , Chen Xinyu , Shinaji Tetsuya , Herrmann Ken , Pelzer Theo , Higuchi Takahiro 
Published: November 2017

AbstractBrown adipose tissue (BAT) is an attractive therapeutic target to combat diabetes and obesity due to its ability to increase glucose expenditure. In a genetic rat model (ZDF fa/fa) of type-2 diabetes and obesity, we aimed to investigate glucose utilization of BAT by 18F-FDG PET imaging. Male Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) and Male Zucker lean (ZL) control rats were studied at 13 weeks. Three weeks prior to imaging, ZDF rats were randomized into a no-restriction (ZDF-ND) and a mild calorie restriction (ZDF-CR) group. Dynamic 18F-FDG PET using a dedicated small animal PET system was performed under hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp. 18F-FDG PET identified intense inter-scapular BAT glucose uptake in all ZL control rats, while no focally increased 18F-FDG uptake was detected in all ZDF-ND rats. Mild but significant improved BAT tracer uptake was identified after calorie restriction in diabetic rats (ZDF-CR). The weight of BAT tissue and fat deposits were significantly increased in ZDF-CR and ZDF-ND rats as compared to ZL controls, while UCP-1 and mitochondrial concentrations were significantly decreased. Whitening and severely impaired insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in BAT was confirmed in a rat model of type-2 diabetes. Additionally, calorie restriction partially restored the impaired BAT glucose uptake.
Impact of demand response on capacity credit of renewable distributed generation
Authors: Zeng Bo , Wei Xuan , Feng Jiahuan , Liu Zongqi 
Published: November 2017

Environmental and economic concerns drive the rapid use of renewable distributed generation (RDG) throughout the world. Due to the inherent variability in renewable energy sources, the capability of RDG to displace conventional generation has become an urgent issue to be studied for future power system planning. In this study, the capacity credit (CC) of RDG is investigated given the distribution generation system context, where in the impact of demand response (DR) is highlighted. To achieve this, it was first attempted to specify CC index of RDG. On this basis, a generalised possibilistic–probabilistic model is proposed for DR characterisation. It decomposes consumer behaviours into a coupling process by the instant response and inter‐temporal effect and takes into account of both aleatory and epistemic uncertainties that involved. The Fischer–Burmeister‐based transformation is used to deal with the hybrid uncertainty. The CC is calculated using the sequential Monte Carlo simulation approach, embedded with an adaptation strategy developed to improve the computational efficiency. Numerical results on a real 20 kV distribution network show that the RDG capacity value varies with DR capacity. DR could have a considerable contribution to the reliability benefits of the system if sufficient responsiveness from demand side were provided.
Use of an Intra-Arterial Catheter as a Provisional Conduit for Regulated Outflow Management in the Setting of Artery-Only Digital Replantation
Authors: DeFazio Michael , Han Kevin , Paryavi Ebrahim 
Published: November 2017

AbstractSuccessful replantation of distal digital segments necessitates the establishment of sufficient outflow to minimize congestion and progressive tissue necrosis. In cases where only arterial anastomosis is feasible, an artificial outlet must be provided to maintain physiological requirements until microvenous circulation regenerates. This can be accomplished using any number of “exsanguination techniques” designed to facilitate egress through ongoing passive blood loss. Although reportedly effective, these measures are imprecise and carry a substantial risk of infection, scarring, and/or uncontrolled hemorrhage. Herein, we describe a preemptive alternative for provisional venous drainage, whereby direct catheterization of a distal arterial branch is used to enhance the precision of outflow management following artery-only digital replantation. The establishment of intravascular access, using the technique described, permits remote manipulation of the microcirculatory environment through timed administration of heparinized saline and regulated removal of controlled volumes of blood.
Local Excision and Endoscopic Resections for Early Rectal Cancer
Authors: Celentano Juan , Alexandre Flavia , Vailati Bruna , São Julião Guilherme 
Published: November 2017

AbstractRadical surgery is considered as the standard treatment for rectal cancer. Transanal local excision has been considered an interesting alternative for the management of selected patients with rectal cancers for many decades. Different approaches had been considered for local excision, from endoscopic submucosal dissection to resections using platforms, such as transanal endoscopic microsurgery or transanal minimally invasive surgery. Identifying the ideal candidate for this approach is crucial, as a local failure after local excision is associated with poor outcomes, even for an initial early rectal tumor. In this article, the diagnostic tools and criteria to select patients for local excision, the different modalities used, and the outcomes are discussed.
Is There Any Reason to Still Consider Lateral Lymph Node Dissection in Rectal Cancer? Rationale and Technique
Authors: Uehara Keisuke , Velde Cornelis , Moriya Yoshihiro , Kusters Miranda 
Published: November 2017

AbstractNodal dissemination in locally advanced rectal cancer occurs mainly in two directions: upward and lateral. Lateral node involvement has been demonstrated; however, lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) is not routinely performed in Western countries and the focus is more on neoadjuvant treatment regimens. The main reasons for this are the high morbidity associated with the operation and the uncertain oncological benefit. There is, however, recent evidence that in selected cases, neoadjuvant treatment combined with total mesorectal excision only might not be sufficient. In this article, the historical developments in the East and the West, the current evidence regarding lateral nodal disease, and the surgical steps in the LLND are discussed.
Neoadjuvant Treatment Strategies: Advanced Radiation Alternatives
Authors: Minsky Bruce 
Published: November 2017

AbstractLong-course chemoradiation therapy (CRT) has been the standard approach for locally advanced rectal tumors. Neoadjuvant CRT is associated to improved local disease control, with less toxicity when compared with adjuvant CRT, as well as the chance for pathologic complete response. The CRT regimens have improved over the past years. This article will examine selected controversies, including novel chemoradiation regimens, duration of radiation (short vs. long course), and radiation techniques such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).
Deep Invasive Fungal Infection of the Hand in a Child Mimicking a Local Gigantism
Authors: Chatterjee Anirban , Chatterjee Shamita 
Published: November 2017

AbstractSubcutaneous and deep fungal infections in the hand are rare among children. These are usually found in immunocompromised adults or in persons engaged in soil handling activities, due to direct exposure, especially in the tropics. Delay in diagnosis is usual because pyogenic and other granulomatous infections are considered first.The authors present the case of a healthy, immunocompetent 2½-year-old child who presented with progressive swelling of the right hand mimicking a localized gigantism of the entire hand. Multiple operative drainage procedures done previously had failed to resolve the condition. A biopsy established the presence of fungal hyphae, thus confirming the diagnosis of deep fungal infection of the hand and guided proper therapeutic intervention. A strong index of suspicion needs to be maintained in cases not responding to conventional antibacterial therapy, and both microbiologic and histopathologic samples need to be obtained to establish the diagnosis.
Staged Reconstruction (Delayed-Immediate) of the Maxillectomy Defect Using CAD/CAM Technology
Authors: Pang John Henry , Brooke Sebastian , Kubik Mark , Ferris Robert , Dhima Matilda , Hanasono Matthew , Wang Eric , Solari Mario 
Published: November 2017

Background Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology has become increasingly popular for free fibula reconstruction of the mandible. The same technology, however, has not been widely utilized in immediate complex midface reconstruction utilizing free fibula flaps. Maxillary defects are difficult to precisely predict or produce matched cutting guides for after the ablative surgery. We present a protocol for “delayed-immediate” two-stage reconstruction for complex mid-facial defects, by delaying lymph node neck dissection and using CAD/CAM technology for delayed bony reconstruction.
Methods Stage 1 includes the extirpative surgery, placement of a temporary obturator, and an immediate post-excision fine cut computed tomography (CT) of the defect that is used for CAD/CAM planning. The time interval between stages is used for virtual surgical planning (VSP) and provides an opportunity for the final pathologic margins to be evaluated. At stage 2, definitive reconstruction is performed in conjunction with the delayed neck dissection. Briefly delaying the neck dissection until stage 2 allows for recipient vessel dissection and microsurgical anastomoses to safely occur in a surgically naïve neck.
Conclusion A two-stage delayed-immediate reconstruction of complex mid-face defects can be safely and effectively performed. This protocol takes advantage of advancing CAD/CAM technology, provides an opportunity to evaluate final margins, and avoids recipient vessel dissection and microsurgery in previously operated or irradiated necks.
Older Age and Longer Epilepsy Duration Do Not Predict Worse Seizure Reduction Outcome after Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Kocvarova Jitka , Novak Zdenek , Dolezalova Irena , Svoboda Michal , Brazdil Milan , Chrastina Jan 
Published: November 2017

Introduction We analyzed the results of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on older patients and patients with long-lasting epilepsy and included severely intellectually disabled patients.
Patients and Methods A total of 103 adults with VNS implanted from 2005 to 2014 were studied. The responder rates, that is, the percentage of VNS patients who responded to VNS, classified as seizure reduction ≥ 50% (50R) and seizure reduction ≥ 90% (90R), were compared in defined age groups (< 40 and ≥ 40 years, and < 50 and ≥ 50 years) and epilepsy duration groups (< 20 and ≥ 20 years, < 30 and ≥ 30 years, and < 40 and ≥ 40 years) at the 1-year follow-up visit and the last follow-up visit (at least 2 years after surgery). The age distributions and responder rates were also studied in patients with an intellectual disability.
Results The analysis did not confirm a significantly lower 50R or 90R rate in patients ≥ 40, ≥ 50, or ≥ 60 years when compared with their younger counterparts, but the 50R rate increase during follow-up care was the lowest in patients ≥ 50 and ≥ 60 years. The highest percentage of patients with an intellectual disability in the group < 40 years of age did not adversely affect the 50R rate. Longer epilepsy duration was not confirmed as a negative predictor of VNS outcome. There was a significantly higher 50R rate in patients with epilepsy duration ≥ 20 years (at the last follow-up visit) and a higher 90R rate in patients with epilepsy duration ≥ 30 years (at the 1-year follow-up visit). The increase in the 50R rate during follow-up care was lower in patients with epilepsy durations ≥ 30 and ≥ 40 years.
Conclusions The study did not find worse VNS outcomes, as defined by the 50R or 90R rate, in older adult patients or in patients with a longer epilepsy duration. The increasing stimulation effect over time is less marked in older patients and in patients with longer epilepsy duration.