bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sofosbuvir‐based treatment of hepatitis C with severe fibrosis (METAVIR F3/F4) after liver transplantation
Authors: Dumortier Jérôme , Leroy Vincent , Duvoux Christophe , de Ledinghen Victor , Francoz Claire , Houssel‐Debry Pauline , Radenne Sylvie , d'Alteroche Louis , Fougerou‐Leurent Claire , Canva Valérie , di Martino Vincent , Conti Filomena , Kamar Nassim , Moreno Christophe , Lebray Pascal , Tran Albert , Besch Camille , Diallo Alpha , Rohel Alexandra , Rossignol Emilie , Abergel Armand , Botta‐Fridlund Danielle , Coilly Audrey , Samuel Didier , Duclos‐Vallée Jean‐Charles , Pageaux Georges‐Philippe
Published: June 2016

Recurrence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) after liver transplantation (LT) can rapidly lead to liver graft cirrhosis and, therefore, graft failure and retransplantation or death. The aim of the present study was to assess efficacy and tolerance of sofosbuvir (SOF)–based regimens for the treatment of HCV recurrence in patients with severe fibrosis after LT. The Compassionate Use of Protease Inhibitors in Viral C Liver Transplantation (CULPIT) study is a prospective multicenter cohort including patients with HCV recurrence following LT treated with second generation direct antivirals. The present study focused on patients included between October 2013 and November 2014 and diagnosed with HCV recurrence and liver graft extensive fibrosis (METAVIR F3/F4). A SOF‐based regimen was administered to 125 patients fulfilling inclusion criteria. The median delay from LT was 95.9 ± 69.6 months. The characteristics of patients were as follows: mean age, 59.4 ± 9.0 years; 78.4% male; infected by HCV genotype 1: 78.2%, mean HCV RNA: 6.1 ± 1.0 log10 IU/mL. Eighty patients had failed previous post‐LT antiviral therapy (64.0%) including triple therapy with first generation protease inhibitors in 19 (15.2%) patients. The main combination regimen was SOF/daclatasvir (73.6%). Ribavirin was used in 60 patients. Sustained virological response 12 weeks after treatment was 92.8% (on an intention‐to‐treat basis); 7 patients with virological failure were observed. Serious adverse events occurred in 25.6% of the patients during antiviral treatment. During antiviral treatment and follow‐up, 3 patients were retransplanted and 4 patients died. In conclusion, SOF‐based antiviral treatment shows very promising results in patients with HCV recurrence and severe fibrosis after LT. Liver Transplantation 22 1367–1378 2016 AASLD.
Existence and multiplicity of systems of Kirchhoff‐type equations with general potentials
Authors: Che Guofeng , Chen Haibo
Published: June 2016

This paper is concerned with the following systems of Kirchhoff‐type equations:

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma4007:mma4007-math-0001
Under more relaxed assumptions on V(x) and F(x,u,v), we first prove the existence of at least two nontrivial solutions for the aforementioned system by using Morse theory in combination with local linking arguments. Then by using the Clark theorem, the existence results of at least 2k distinct pairs of solutions are obtained. Some recent results from the literature are extended. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Poly(ether sulfone)s using a rigid dibenzothiophene dioxide heterocycle
Authors: Kortan Adam M. , Cannizzaro Randall J. , Robb Maxwell J. , Knauss Daniel M.
Published: June 2016

Poly(aryl ether)s were prepared by nucleophilic aromatic substitution using conformationally restricted dichloro‐ and difluorodibenzothiophene dioxide heterocyclic monomers with bisphenol A or bisphenol AF. The heterocyclic monomers were prepared from the bis(4‐halophenyl) sulfones in two steps via lithiation followed by copper catalyzed intramolecular coupling and characterized by 1H, 13C, 19F NMR spectroscopy and GC/MS. Reactivity of the fluorine containing monomer was examined using semi‐empirical methods and NMR spectroscopy measurements and found to be potentially more reactive than bis(4‐fluorophenyl) sulfone, even with a conformationally locked sulfone as the electron withdrawing group. Successful polymerizations of both the fluorine and chlorine containing monomers with bisphenol A and bisphenol AF nucleophiles were accomplished, providing polymers with number average molecular weights of approximately 45 kg/mol (difluoro monomer) and 10–20 kg/mol (dichloro monomer). The polymers exhibited high Tgs ranging from 238 to 256 °C and displayed good thermal stability with 5% degradation temperatures in air from 453–510 °C, depending on molecular weight and bisphenol composition. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 3127–3131
Electrochemical charging of the single‐layer graphene membrane
Authors: Komínková Zuzana , Kalbáč Martin
Published: June 2016

In situ Raman spectroelectrochemistry has been applied to study chemical vapor‐deposition‐grown single‐layer graphene membrane on a patterned SiO2/Si substrate. The SiO2/Si substrate is known to dope graphene, thus the substrate can significantly influence the properties of the graphene during electrochemical charging. We analyzed the change of the Raman intensity of the G mode as a function of electrode potential for a single‐layer graphene membrane and we compared the results to those obtained for the same graphene sample on a substrate. Because of the elimination of the influence of a supporting substrate we have been able to achieve more efficient doping of graphene by applied electrode potentials.
Characteristics and predictability of a supercell during HyMeX SOP1
Authors: Miglietta Mario Marcello , Manzato Agostino , Rotunno Richard
Published: June 2016

An analysis is presented here of intense convection affecting the Friuli Venezia Giulia region (FVG, northeastern Italy) during the Intensive Observation Period 2b (IOP2b) in the first Special Observation Period (SOP1) of HyMeX (HYdrological cycle in Mediterranean EXperiment). The present study focuses on the first of three severe‐convection episodes that affected FVG on the morning of 12 September 2012. In the first episode, a supercell, which produced hail and severe damage to trees and buildings, was observed on the plain of FVG. The available observations are analysed together with a high‐resolution mesoscale model, in order to identify the relevant mechanisms for the formation and development of the cell. Six different simulations were performed starting at three different initial times, using respectively two different analysis/forecasts as initial/boundary conditions. A large spread in forecast precipitation is found among the six simulations. Only a few of the simulations were able to reproduce intense rainfall on the plain of FVG during the morning, although with significant differences in the rainfall distribution among them. One of the six simulations well reproduces the observed elongated distribution of the intense rainfall maximum; the characteristics of the cell responsible for this distribution are consistent with those expected for a supercell and its simulated evolution near the Adriatic coast agrees well with the other observations. Some instability parameters over the FVG plain and offshore (over the northern Adriatic Sea) are analysed every 5 min, showing that during this event the potential instability varies significantly over small space and time intervals and among the simulations. The best simulations have the best match to the observed potential instability calculated using the mean characteristics of the lowest 500 m layer.
Assimilation of SSMIS humidity‐sounding channels in all‐sky conditions over land using a dynamic emissivity retrieval
Authors: Baordo F. , Geer A. J.
Published: June 2016

The extension of all‐sky assimilation of Special Sensor Microwave Imager/Sounder (SSMIS) humidity‐sounding channels to land surfaces is investigated in this article. The scattering index, which is able to discriminate between cloudy and precipitating regions over land, is used as a predictor to develop a ‘symmetric’ model for observation error. This formulation is able to increase the observation error in those scenes that are more difficult to model because of radiative transfer and ‘mislocation’ errors. The implementation of an instantaneous emissivity retrieval from SSMIS observations is also presented. In clear‐sky scenes, emissivity retrievals appear better at capturing daily differences in surface conditions compared with emissivity atlas values. In the presence of clouds, retrievals show different behaviour. In the lower microwave frequencies (less than 50 GHz), emissivity estimates appear nearly as reliable as those in clear skies, but at higher frequencies, as the magnitude of scattering increases, so does the error in the retrieval and the resultant emissivity estimate can be unphysically low or high. However, the retrieval still appears feasible at high frequencies in light cloud situations; the number of retrievals discarded due to this kind of problem is around 10%. In these cases, an estimate from an emissivity atlas can be substituted instead. Together, the new observation‐error model and the instantaneous emissivity retrievals were adopted for the assimilation of SSMIS 183 GHz channels over land in all‐sky conditions. Assimilation experiments showed that the assimilation system is not degraded and the improvements in analysis and forecast scores are about the same as those obtained by the equivalent clear‐sky approach. The developments described in this study were an essential first step to create framework to allow the all‐sky assimilation over land of other microwave humidity sounders: this started operationally at the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) in 2015, covering both SSMIS and four Microwave Humidity Sounder (MHS) instruments.
Capturing Functional Independence Measure (FIM®) Ratings
Authors: Torres Audrey
Published: June 2016

Purpose:

The aim of the study was to identify interventions to capture admission functional independence measure (FIM®) ratings on the day of admission to an inpatient rehabilitation facility.

Design:

A quantitative evidence-based practice quality improvement study utilizing descriptive statistics.

Methods:

Admission FIM® ratings from patients discharged in June 2012 (retrospective review) were compared to admission FIM® ratings from patients discharged in June 2014 (prospective review). The logic model was utilized to determine the project inputs, outputs, and outcomes.

Findings:

Interventions to capture admission FIM® ratings on the day of admission are essential to accurately predict the patient’s burden of care, length of stay, and reimbursement. Waiting until Day 2 or Day 3 after admission to capture the admission FIM® assessment resulted in inflated admission FIM® ratings and suboptimal quality outcomes.

Conclusion/Clinical Relevance:

Interventions to capture admission FIM® ratings on the day of admission were successful at improving the quality of care, length of stay efficiency, and accurately recording admission FIM® ratings to determine the patient’s burden of care.
Flexible Asymmetric Encapsulation for Dehydration‐Responsive Hybrid Microfibers
Authors: Chaurasia Ankur S. , Sajjadi Shahriar
Published: June 2016

A new class of smart alginate microfibers with asymmetric oil encapsulates is introduced. These fibers are produced by injecting an aqueous alginate solution into an outer aqueous calcium chloride solution to form alginate fibers, which are asymmetrically loaded with oil entities through eccentrically aligned inner capillaries. The fiber morphology and its degree of asymmetry can be tuned via altering the size, location, and frequency of the oil encapsulates. These asymmetric fibers reveal significant potential for applications where conventional symmetric fibers fail to perform. It is shown how asymmetric oil‐encapsulated fibers can become dehydration‐sensitive, and trigger the release of encapsulates if their hydration level drops below a critical value. It is also shown how the triggered response could be switched off on demand by stabilizing the oil encapsulates. The capability of asymmetric fibers to carry and release multiple cargos in parallel is demonstrated. The fibers loaded with equal‐sized spheres are more asymmetric than those containing unequal drops, have a higher tensile strength, and show better potential for a triggered response.
Angiopellosis as an Alternative Mechanism of Cell Extravasation
Authors: Allen Tyler A. , Gracieux David , Talib Maliha , Tokarz Debra A. , Hensley M. Taylor , Cores Jhon , Vandergriff Adam , Tang Junnan , de Andrade James B.M. , Dinh Phuong-Uyen , Yoder Jeffrey A. , Cheng Ke
Published: June 2016

Stem cells possess the ability to home in and travel to damaged tissue when injected intravenously. For the cells to exert their therapeutic effect, they must cross the blood vessel wall and enter the surrounding tissues. The mechanism of extravasation injected stem cells employ for exit has yet to be characterized. Using intravital microscopy and a transgenic zebrafish line Tg(fli1a:egpf) with GFP-expressing vasculature, we documented the detailed extravasation processes in vivo for injected stem cells in comparison to white blood cells (WBCs). While WBCs left the blood vessels by the standard diapedesis process, injected cardiac and mesenchymal stem cells underwent a distinct method of extravasation that was markedly different from diapedesis. Here, the vascular wall undergoes an extensive remodeling to allow the cell to exit the lumen, while the injected cell remains distinctively passive in activity. We termed this process Angio-pello-sis, which represents an alternative mechanism of cell extravasation to the prevailing theory of diapedesis.

Video Highlight: https://youtu.be/i5EI-ZvhBps
Experimental study on steel built‐up column moment connections with top and bottom trapezoidal side plates
Authors: Shiravand M.R. , Deylami A.
Published: June 2016

Built‐up and box columns are used extensively in steel structures. A kind of built‐up column is composed of two I rolled shapes separated by calculated interval and welded between two cover plates. The uncertainties due to these columns are the flexibility of the column cover plates under the transferred beam flange plate forces and the brittle behavior of the groove weld between the beam flange plate and the column cover plate. The top and bottom trapezoidal side plates are proposed to improve the behavior of these column moment connections. Using this approach, the total beam flange forces transfer to the lateral sides of the column, parallel to the beam web, by means of top and bottom side plates. An experimental test is developed to study the behavior of the proposed connection under cyclic loading. The results indicate that the proposed connection has sufficient strength and ductility to apply in special moment frames. Also, the rehabilitated connection eliminates the vulnerabilities of deformation of the column cover plate and brittle fracture of groove welds in conventional connections. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of acrylic content in PBA‐SAN on the mechanical properties of PBA‐SAN and PBA‐SAN/SAN blends
Authors: Tian Tingsheng , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Jun
Published: June 2016

The effects of different acrylic rubber (PBA) contents in core‐shell structured rubbery acrylate‐g‐poly (styrene‐acrylonitrile) (PBA‐SAN) on the mechanical properties of PBA‐SAN and PBA‐SAN/SAN blends were systematically investigated. Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to characterize the structure and morphology of PBA‐SAN and PBA‐SAN/SAN blends, respectively. It was found that the mechanical properties of PBA‐SAN and PBA‐SAN/SAN blends strongly depended on the PBA content: largely improved impact strength and elongation at break were observed when adding PBA‐SAN with high PBA content. However, the loss in rigidity and heat distortion temperature were accompanied. Specifically, both PBA‐SAN and PBA‐SAN/SAN blends with 60 wt% PBA exhibited a good balance between toughness and rigidity, which indicating PBA‐SAN with 60 wt% PBA was the most suitable impact modifier. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 24:262–267, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Formalisation of the computation of the echelon form of a matrix in Isabelle/HOL
Authors: Aransay Jesús , Divasón Jose
Published: June 2016

In this contribution we present a formalised algorithm in the Isabelle/HOL proof assistant to compute echelon forms, and, as a consequence, characteristic polynomials of matrices. We have proved its correctness over Bézout domains, but its executability is only guaranteed over Euclidean domains, such as the integer ring and the univariate polynomials over a field. This is possible since the algorithm has been parameterised by a (possibly non-computable) operation that returns the Bézout coefficients of a pair of elements of a ring. The echelon form is also used to compute determinants and inverses of matrices. As a by-product, some algebraic structures have been implemented (principal ideal domains, Bézout domains, etc.). In order to improve performance, the algorithm has been refined to immutable arrays inside of Isabelle and code can be generated to functional languages as well.
Waypoint Following for Differentially Driven Wheeled Robots with Limited Velocity Perturbations
Authors: Pazderski Dariusz
Published: June 2016

In this paper a unified motion control strategy dedicated for the waypoint following task realized by a differentially driven robot is presented. It is assumed that the vehicle moves with limited velocities and accelerations in order to reduce excessive slip and skid effects. In order to include operational constraints, a motion planner is combined with a universal stabilizer taking advantage of transverse functions. To improve tracking precision translated transverse functions are deployed and a new adaptive technique for the controller tuning is proposed. During the motion planning stage an auxiliary trajectory connecting points in the configuration space and satisfying assumed phase constraints is generated. The resulting motion execution system has been implemented on a laboratory-scale skid-steering mobile robot, which served as platform for experimental validation of presented algorithms.
Controlling droplet bouncing and coalescence with surfactant
Authors: Pan K.-L. , Tseng Y.-H. , Chen J.-C. , Huang K.-L. , Wang C.-H. , Lai M.-C.
Published: June 2016

The collision between aqueous drops in air typically leads to coalescence after impact. Rebounding of the droplets with similar sizes at atmospheric conditions is not generated, unless with significantly large pressure or high impact parameters exhibiting near-grazing collision. Here we demonstrate experimentally the creation of a non-coalescent regime through addition of a small amount of water-soluble surfactant. We perform a direct simulation to account for the continuum and short-range flow dynamics of the approaching interfaces, as affected by the soluble surfactant. Based on the immersed-boundary formulation, a conservative scheme is developed for solving the coupled surface-bulk convection–diffusion concentration equations, which presents excellent mass preservation in the solvent as well as conservation of total surfactant mass. We show that the Marangoni effect, caused by non-uniform distributions of surfactant on the droplet surface and surface tension, induces stresses that oppose the draining of gas in the interstitial gap, and hence prohibits merging of the interfaces. In such gas–liquid systems, the repulsion caused by the addition of surfactant, as frequently observed in liquid–liquid systems such as emulsions in the form of an electric double-layer force, was found to be too weak to dominate in the attainable range of interfacial separation distances. These results thus identify the key mechanisms governing the impact dynamics of surfactant-coated droplets in air and imply the potential of using a small amount of surfactant to manipulate impact outcomes, for example, to prevent coalescence between droplets or interfaces in gases.
The Controversial Star-Formation History and Helium Enrichment of the Milky Way Bulge
Authors: Nataf David M.
Published: June 2016

The stellar population of the Milky Way bulge is thoroughly studied, with a plethora of measurements from virtually the full suite of instruments available to astronomers. It is thus perhaps surprising that alongside well-established results lies some substantial uncertainty in its star-formation history. Cosmological models predict the bulge to host the Galaxy's oldest stars for [Fe/H] ≲ −1, and this is demonstrated by RR Lyrae stars and globular cluster observations. There is consensus that bulge stars with [Fe/H] ≲ 0 are older than t ≈ 10 Gyr. However, at super-solar metallicity, there is a substantial unresolved discrepancy. Data from spectroscopic measurements of the main-sequence turnoff and subgiant branch, the abundances of asymptotic giant branch stars, the period distribution of Mira variables, the chemistry and central-star masses of planetary nebulae, all suggest a substantial intermediate-age population (t ≈ 3 Gyr). This is in conflict with predictions from cosmologically motivated chemical evolution models and photometric studies of the main-sequence turnoff region, which both suggest virtually no stars younger than t ≈ 8 Gyr. A possible resolution to this conflict is enhanced helium-enrichment, as this would shift nearly all of the age estimates in the direction of decreasing discrepancy.
The 3D Structure of the Galactic Bulge
Authors: Zoccali Manuela , Valenti Elena
Published: June 2016

We review the observational evidences concerning the three-dimensional structure of the Galactic bulge. Although the inner few kpc of our Galaxy are normally referred to asthe bulge, all the observations demonstrate that this region is dominated by a bar, i.e., the bulge is a bar. The bar has a boxy/peanut (X-shaped) structure in its outer regions, while it seems to become less and less elongated in its innermost region. A thinner and longer structure departing from the main bar has also been found, although the observational evidences that support the scenario of two separate structures has been recently challenged. Metal-poor stars ([Fe/H] ≲ −0.5 dex) trace a different structure, and also have different kinematics.
Correlations between Kinematics and Metallicity in the Galactic Bulge: A Review
Authors: Babusiaux Carine
Published: June 2016

Recent large-scale surveys of galactic bulge stars allowed to build a detailed map of the bulge kinematics. The bulge exhibits cylindrical rotation consistent with a disky origin which evolved through bar-driven secular evolution. However, correlations between metallicity and kinematics complicate this picture. In particular a metal-poor component with distinct kinematic signatures has been detected. Its origin, density profile and link with the other Milky Way stellar populations are currently still poorly constrained.
FMR1 gene mutations in patients with fragile X syndrome and obligate carriers: 30 years of experience in Chile
Authors: SANTA MARÍA LORENA , ALIAGA SOLANGE , FAUNDES VÍCTOR , MORALES PAULINA , PUGIN ÁNGELA , CUROTTO BIANCA , SOTO PAULA , PEÑA M. IGNACIA , SALAS ISABEL , ALLIENDE M. ANGÉLICA
Published: June 2016

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common form of inherited intellectual disability (ID) and co-morbid autism. It is caused by an amplification of the CGG repeat (>200), which is known as the full mutation, within the 5′UTR of the FMR1 gene. Expansions between 55–200 CGG repeats are termed premutation and are associated with a greater risk for fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome and fragile X-associated premature ovarian insufficiency. Intermediate alleles, also called the grey zone, include approximately 45–54 repeats and are considered borderline. Individuals with less than 45 repeats have a normal FMR1 gene. We report the occurrence of CGG expansions of the FMR1 gene in Chile among patients with ID and families with a known history of FXS. Here, we present a retrospective review conducted on 2321 cases (2202 probands and 119 relatives) referred for FXS diagnosis and cascade screening at the Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA), University of Chile. Samples were analysed using traditional cytogenetic methods and/or PCR. Southern blot was used to confirm the diagnosis. Overall frequency of FMR1 expansions observed among probands was 194 (8·8%), the average age of diagnosis was 8·8 ± 5·4 years. Of 119 family members studied, 72 (60%) were diagnosed with a CGG expansion. Our results indicated that the prevalence of CGG expansions of the FMR1 gene among probands is relatively higher than other populations. The average age of diagnosis is also higher than reference values. PCR and Southern blot represent a reliable molecular technique in the diagnosis of FXS.
Nutrition and the homeless: the underestimated challenge
Authors: Seale J. V. , Fallaize R. , Lovegrove J. A.
Published: June 2016

Homelessness is present in most societies and represents a situation in which the basic needs for survival including food are often limited. It is logical to surmise that the homeless person’s diet is likely to be nutritionally deficient and yet there is a relative paucity in research regarding this issue with studies varying in both their methodology and homeless population. Despite these differences, diets of the homeless are frequently characterised as high in saturated fat and deficient in fibre and certain micronutrients, all of which can have negative implications for the homeless individual’s health and/or mental state. The conclusion from intervention studies is that there is no consensus as to the most effective method for assessing dietary intake. In order to address this, the present review aims to provide a greater understanding of the existing literature surrounding nutrition and the homeless and to act as a foundation from which further research can be conducted. An evaluation of the main findings and challenges surrounding the assessment of the nutritional status of the homeless will be provided followed by a review of the physical and mental consequences of the homeless diet. Current and potential interventions aimed at increasing the nutritional quality of food consumed by the homeless will be addressed with a focus on the role of the nutritional science community in assisting in this endeavour.
Using national dietary intake data to evaluate and adapt the US Diet History Questionnaire: the stepwise tailoring of an FFQ for Canadian use
Authors: Csizmadi Ilona , Boucher Beatrice A , Lo Siou Geraldine , Massarelli Isabelle , Rondeau Isabelle , Garriguet Didier , Koushik Anita , Elenko Janine , Subar Amy F
Published: June 2016

Objective

To evaluate the Canadian Diet History Questionnaire I (C-DHQ I) food list and to adapt the US DHQ II for Canada using Canadian dietary survey data.

Design

Twenty-four-hour dietary recalls reported by adults in a national Canadian survey were analysed to create a food list corresponding to C-DHQ I food questions. The percentage contribution of the food list to the total survey intake of seventeen nutrients was used as the criterion to evaluate the suitability of the C-DHQ I to capture food intake in Canadian populations. The data were also analysed to identify foods and to modify portion sizes for the C-DHQ II.

Setting

The Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) – Cycle 2.2 Nutrition (2004).

Subjects

Adults (n20 159) who completed 24 h dietary recalls during in-person interviews.

Results

Four thousand five hundred and thirty-three foods and recipes were grouped into 268 Food Groups, of which 212 corresponded to questions on the C-DHQ I. Nutrient intakes captured by the C-DHQ I ranged from 79 % for fat to 100 % for alcohol. For the new C-DHQ II, some food questions were retained from the original US DHQ II while others were added based on foods reported in CCHS and foods available on the Canadian market since 2004. Of 153 questions, 143 were associated with portion sizes of which fifty-three were modified from US values. Sex-specific nutrient profiles for the C-DHQ II nutrient database were derived using CCHS data.

Conclusions

The C-DHQ I and II are designed to optimize the capture of foods consumed by Canadian populations.
Angioplasty with drug coated balloons for the treatment of infrainguinal peripheral artery disease
Authors: Werner Martin
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Restenosis or re-occlusion after femoropopliteal angioplasty or stent implantation is the main limitation of endovascular treatment strategies for peripheral artery disease. Within the last years, balloon catheters with anti-proliferative drug coating on the balloon surface have shown to be associated with higher patency rates compared to plain balloon angioplasty. Thus, drug-coated balloons were gradually adopted in many interventional centres for the treatment of femoropopliteal obstructions. The current review summarises the existing evidence for drug-coated balloons in the infrainguinal vessels and their indication in special lesion cohorts.
The risk of peripheral artery disease in older adults - seven-year results of the getABI study
Authors: Krause Dietmar , Burghaus Ina , Thiem Ulrich , Trampisch Ulrike S. , Trampisch Matthias , Klaassen-Mielke Renate , Trampisch Hans-Joachim , Diehm Curt , Rudolf Henrik
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Background: To assess the risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD) in older adults and the contribution of traditional and novel risk factors to the incidence of PAD. Patients and methods: 344 general practitioners (GPs), trained by vascular specialists all over Germany, enrolled 6,880 unselected participants aged 65 years or older (getABI study). The onset of PAD was determined by a regression method in the course of repeated measurements of the ankle brachial index (ABI) over seven years. PAD onset was defined by the declining linear regression ABI line reaching 0.9 or by PAD symptoms. Results: The cumulative PAD incidence over seven years was 12.9%, corresponding to an incidence rate of 20.3 per 1000 person years (95% confidence interval [95%CI] 18.8 to 21.7). Logistic regression analysis showed that traditional risk factors contributed significantly to the risk of PAD: current smoker status (odds ratio 2.65, 95%CI 2.08 to 3.37), diabetes (1.35, 95%CI 1.13 to 1.62), and low-density lipoprotein >130 mg/dl (1.26, 95%CI 1.07 to 1.48). Three novel risk factor candidates showed significant impact on PAD incidence: elevated sensitive C-reactive protein level (1.23, 95%CI 1.05 to 1.45), impaired estimated glomerular filtration rate (1.27, 95%CI 1.03 to 1.56), and elevated homocysteine level (1.19, 95%CI 1.01 to 1.41). Conclusions: Older adults in Germany have a PAD risk of 12.9% per seven years. Potentially modifiable traditional PAD risk factors yield high impact on PAD incidence. Novel risk factor candidates may contribute to the risk of PAD
Neurowissenschaft und Lernen
Authors: Sieberer-Nagler Katharina
Published: June 2016

Zusammenfassung. In dieser Übersichtsarbeit werden Erkenntnisse der Neurobiologie, Psychologie und Pädagogik im Hinblick auf das Thema Lernen behandelt. Ergebnisse der Hirnforschung zeigen, wie wir Informationen aufnehmen und welche Faktoren dabei Einfluss auf das Lernen nehmen. Unser Gehirn und dessen neuronale Strukturen werden erklärt. Die Erkenntnisse der Hirnforschung können zu einem lernförderlichen und lernfreundlichen Unterricht beitragen. So wird in dieser vorliegenden Arbeit aufgezeigt, wie Lehrende durch ihr Verhalten, ihre Erwartungen und ihren Interaktionsstil, das Lernverhalten der Lernenden positiv beeinflussen können. Weitere lernfördernde Faktoren wie Schlaf und Unterrichtsablauf werden ebenfalls im Artikel behandelt.
2016 AGU Section and Focus Group Awardees and Named Lecturers
Authors: Davidson Eric , Mukasa Sam
Published: June 2016

The American Geophysical Union recognizes outstanding scientists in Earth and space sciences ranging from biogeosciences to space physics to volcanology.
Relationship of serum GDF11 levels with bone mineral density and bone turnover markers in postmenopausal Chinese women
Authors: Chen Yusi , Guo Qi , Zhang Min , Song Shumin , Quan Tonggui , Zhao Tiepeng , Li Hongliang , Guo Lijuan , Jiang Tiejian , Wang Guangwei
Published: June 2016

Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is an important circulating factor that regulates aging. However, the role of GDF11 in bone metabolism remains unclear. The present study was undertaken to investigate the relationship between serum GDF11 level, bone mass, and bone turnover markers in postmenopausal Chinese women. Serum GDF11 level, bone turnover biochemical markers, and bone mineral density (BMD) were determined in 169 postmenopausal Chinese women (47–78 years old). GDF11 serum levels increased with aging. There were negative correlations between GDF11 and BMD at the various skeletal sites. After adjusting for age and body mass index (BMI), the correlations remained statistically significant. In the multiple linear stepwise regression analysis, age or years since menopause, BMI, GDF11, and estradiol were independent predictors of BMD. A significant negative correlation between GDF11 and bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP) was identified and remained significant after adjusting for age and BMI. No significant correlation was noted between cross-linked N-telopeptides of type I collagen (NTX) and GDF11. In conclusion, GDF11 is an independent negative predictor of BMD and correlates with a biomarker of bone formation, BAP, in postmenopausal Chinese women. GDF11 potentially exerts a negative effect on bone mass by regulating bone formation.
Memory of cell shape biases stochastic fate decision-making despite mitotic rounding
Authors: Akanuma Takashi , Chen Cong , Sato Tetsuo , Merks Roeland M. H. , Sato Thomas N.
Published: June 2016

Cell shape influences function, and the current model suggests that such shape effect is transient. However, cells dynamically change their shapes, thus, the critical question is whether shape information remains influential on future cell function even after the original shape is lost. We address this question by integrating experimental and computational approaches. Quantitative live imaging of asymmetric cell-fate decision-making and their live shape manipulation demonstrates that cellular eccentricity of progenitor cell indeed biases stochastic fate decisions of daughter cells despite mitotic rounding. Modelling and simulation indicates that polarized localization of Delta protein instructs by the progenitor eccentricity is an origin of the bias. Simulation with varying parameters predicts that diffusion rate and abundance of Delta molecules quantitatively influence the bias. These predictions are experimentally validated by physical and genetic methods, showing that cells exploit a mechanism reported herein to influence their future fates based on their past shape despite dynamic shape changes.
Sudden restoration of the band ordering associated with the ferromagnetic phase transition in a semiconductor
Authors: Muneta Iriya , Ohya Shinobu , Terada Hiroshi , Tanaka Masaaki
Published: June 2016

The band ordering of semiconductors is an important factor in determining the mobility and coherence of the wave function of carriers, and is thus a key factor in device performance. However, in heavily doped semiconductors, the impurities substantially disturb the band ordering, leading to significant degradation in performance. Here, we present the unexpected finding that the band ordering is suddenly restored in Mn-doped GaAs ((Ga,Mn)As) when the Mn concentration slightly exceeds ∼0.7% despite the extremely high doping concentration; this phenomenon is very difficult to predict from the general behaviour of doped semiconductors. This phenomenon occurs with a ferromagnetic phase transition, which is considered to have a crucial role in generating a well-ordered band structure. Our findings offer possibilities for ultra-high-speed quantum-effect spin devices based on semiconductors.
Comprehensive identification of internal structure and alternative splicing events in circular RNAs
Authors: Gao Yuan , Wang Jinfeng , Zheng Yi , Zhang Jinyang , Chen Shuai , Zhao Fangqing
Published: June 2016

Although previous studies demonstrated circular RNAs (circRNAs) does not exclusively comprise mRNA exons, no study has extensively explored their internal structure. By combining an algorithm with long-read sequencing data and experimental validation, we, for the first time, comprehensively investigate internal components of circRNAs in 10 human cell lines and 62 fruit fly samples, and reveal the prevalence of alternative splicing (AS) events within circRNAs. Significantly, a large proportion of circRNA AS exons can hardly be detected in mRNAs and are enriched with binding sites of distinct splicing factors from those enriched in mRNA exons. We find that AS events in circRNAs have a preference towards nucleus localization and exhibit tissue- and developmental stage-specific expression patterns. This study suggests an independent regulation on the biogenesis or decay of AS events in circRNAs and the identified circular AS isoforms provide targets for future studies on circRNA formation and function.
A rhesus macaque model of Asian-lineage Zika virus infection
Authors: Dudley Dawn M. , Aliota Matthew T. , Mohr Emma L. , Weiler Andrea M. , Lehrer-Brey Gabrielle , Weisgrau Kim L. , Mohns Mariel S. , Breitbach Meghan E. , Rasheed Mustafa N. , Newman Christina M. , Gellerup Dane D. , Moncla Louise H. , Post Jennifer , Schultz-Darken Nancy , Schotzko Michele L. , Hayes Jennifer M. , Eudailey Josh A. , Moody M. Anthony , Permar Sallie R. , O’Connor Shelby L. , Rakasz Eva G. , Simmons Heather A. , Capuano Saverio , Golos Thaddeus G. , Osorio Jorge E. , Friedrich Thomas C. , O’Connor David H.
Published: June 2016

Infection with Asian-lineage Zika virus (ZIKV) has been associated with Guillain–Barré syndrome and fetal abnormalities, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Animal models of infection are thus urgently needed. Here we show that rhesus macaques are susceptible to infection by an Asian-lineage ZIKV closely related to strains currently circulating in the Americas. Following subcutaneous inoculation, ZIKV RNA is detected in plasma 1 day post infection (d.p.i.) in all animals (N=8, including 2 pregnant animals), and is also present in saliva, urine and cerebrospinal fluid. Non-pregnant and pregnant animals remain viremic for 21 days and for up to at least 57 days, respectively. Neutralizing antibodies are detected by 21 d.p.i. Rechallenge 10 weeks after the initial challenge results in no detectable virus replication, indicating protective immunity against homologous strains. Therefore, Asian-lineage ZIKV infection of rhesus macaques provides a relevant animal model for studying pathogenesis and evaluating potential interventions against human infection, including during pregnancy.
Molecular evidence of synaptic pathology in the CA1 region in schizophrenia
Authors: Matosin Natalie , Fernandez-Enright Francesca , Lum Jeremy S , Engel Martin , Andrews Jessica L , Gassen Nils C , Wagner Klaus V , Schmidt Mathias V , Newell Kelly A
Published: June 2016

Alterations of postsynaptic density (PSD)95-complex proteins in schizophrenia ostensibly induce deficits in synaptic plasticity, the molecular process underlying cognitive functions. Although some PSD95-complex proteins have been previously examined in the hippocampus in schizophrenia, the status of other equally important molecules is unclear. This is especially true in the cornu ammonis (CA)1 hippocampal subfield, a region that is critically involved in the pathophysiology of the illness. We thus performed a quantitative immunoblot experiment to examine PSD95 and several of its associated proteins in the CA1 region, using post mortem brain samples derived from schizophrenia subjects with age-, sex-, and post mortem interval-matched controls (n=20/group). Our results indicate a substantial reduction in PSD95 protein expression (−61.8%). Further analysis showed additional alterations to the scaffold protein Homer1 (Homer1a: +42.9%, Homer1b/c: −24.6%), with a twofold reduction in the ratio of Homer1b/c:Homer1a isoforms (P=0.011). Metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGluR1) protein levels were significantly reduced (−32.7%), and Preso, a protein that supports interactions between Homer1 or PSD95 with mGluR1, was elevated (+83.3%). Significant reduction in synaptophysin (−27.8%) was also detected, which is a validated marker of synaptic density. These findings support the presence of extensive molecular abnormalities to PSD95 and several of its associated proteins in the CA1 region in schizophrenia, offering a small but significant step toward understanding how proteins in the PSD are altered in the schizophrenia brain, and their relevance to overall hippocampal and cognitive dysfunction in the illness.
Occupational markers and pathology of the castrato singer Gaspare Pacchierotti (1740–1821)
Authors: Zanatta Alberto , Zampieri Fabio , Scattolin Giuliano , Rippa Bonati Maurizio
Published: June 2016

Following the birth of modern opera in Italy in 1600, the demand for soprano voices grew up and the prepuberal castration was carried out to preserve the young male voice into adult life. Among the castrati, Gaspare Pacchierotti was probably one of the most famous. The remains of Pacchierotti were exhumed for the first time in 2013, for a research in the reconstruction of his biological profile, to understand the secrets behind his sublime voice and how the castration influenced the body. All the findings discovered, through anthropological and Computed Tomography analyses, are consistent both with the occupational markers of a singer and with the hormonal effects of castration. The erosion of cervical vertebrae, the insertion of respiratory muscles and muscles of the arms can be an effect of the bodily position and exercise during singing. The hormonal effect of castration were related to osteoporosis and to the disorders of spine.
Piezoresistive effect in p-type 3C-SiC at high temperatures characterized using Joule heating
Authors: Phan Hoang-Phuong , Dinh Toan , Kozeki Takahiro , Qamar Afzaal , Namazu Takahiro , Dimitrijev Sima , Nguyen Nam-Trung , Dao Dzung Viet
Published: June 2016

Cubic silicon carbide is a promising material for Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS) applications in harsh environ-ments and bioapplications thanks to its large band gap, chemical inertness, excellent corrosion tolerance and capability of growth on a Si substrate. This paper reports the piezoresistive effect of p-type single crystalline 3C-SiC characterized at high temperatures, using an in situ measurement method. The experimental results show that the highly doped p-type 3C-SiC possesses a relatively stable gauge factor of approximately 25 to 28 at temperatures varying from 300 K to 573 K. The in situ method proposed in this study also demonstrated that, the combination of the piezoresistive and thermoresistive effects can increase the gauge factor of p-type 3C-SiC to approximately 20% at 573 K. The increase in gauge factor based on the combination of these phenomena could enhance the sensitivity of SiC based MEMS mechanical sensors.
Metformin is a novel suppressor for transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1
Authors: Xiao Han , Zhang Jianshu , Xu Zhonghe , Feng Yenan , Zhang Mingliang , Liu Jianli , Chen Ruifei , Shen Jing , Wu Jimin , Lu Zhizhen , Fang Xiaohong , Li Jingyuan , Zhang Youyi
Published: June 2016

Metformin is a widely used first-line antidiabetic drug that has been shown to protect against a variety of specific diseases in addition to diabetes, including cardiovascular disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome and cancer. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the diverse therapeutic effects of metformin remain elusive. Here, we report that transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), which is involved in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, is a novel target of metformin. Using a surface plasmon resonance-based assay, we identified the direct binding of metformin to TGF-β1 and found that metformin inhibits [125I]-TGF-β1 binding to its receptor. Furthermore, based on molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations, metformin was predicted to interact with TGF-β1 at its receptor-binding domain. Single-molecule force spectroscopy revealed that metformin reduces the binding probability but not the binding force of TGF-β1 to its type II receptor. Consequently, metformin suppresses type II TGF-β1 receptor dimerization upon exposure to TGF-β1, which is essential for downstream signal transduction. Thus, our results indicate that metformin is a novel TGF-β suppressor with therapeutic potential for numerous diseases in which TGF-β1 hyperfunction is indicated.
The AMPA receptor antagonist perampanel robustly rescues amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) pathology in sporadic ALS model mice
Authors: Akamatsu Megumi , Yamashita Takenari , Hirose Naoki , Teramoto Sayaka , Kwak Shin
Published: June 2016

Both TDP-43 pathology and failure of RNA editing of AMPA receptor subunit GluA2, are etiology-linked molecular abnormalities that concomitantly occur in the motor neurons of the majority of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). AR2 mice, in which an RNA editing enzyme adenosine deaminase acting on RNA 2 (ADAR2) is conditionally knocked out in the motor neurons, exhibit a progressive ALS phenotype with TDP-43 pathology in the motor neurons through a Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptor-mediated mechanism. Therefore, amelioration of the increased Ca2+ influx by AMPA receptor antagonists may be a potential ALS therapy. Here, we showed that orally administered perampanel, a selective, non-competitive AMPA receptor antagonist significantly prevented the progression of the ALS phenotype and normalized the TDP-43 pathology-associated death of motor neurons in the AR2 mice. Given that perampanel is an approved anti-epileptic drug, perampanel is a potential candidate ALS drug worthy of a clinical trial.
Loss/gain-induced ultrathin antireflection coatings
Authors: Luo Jie , Li Sucheng , Hou Bo , Lai Yun
Published: June 2016

Tradional antireflection coatings composed of dielectric layers usually require the thickness to be larger than quarter wavelength. Here, we demonstrate that materials with permittivity or permeability dominated by imaginary parts, i.e. lossy or gain media, can realize non-resonant antireflection coatings in deep sub-wavelength scale. Interestingly, while the reflected waves are eliminated as in traditional dielectric antireflection coatings, the transmitted waves can be enhanced or reduced, depending on whether gain or lossy media are applied, respectively. We provide a unified theory for the design of such ultrathin antireflection coatings, showing that under different polarizations and incident angles, different types of ultrathin coatings should be applied. Especially, under transverse magnetic polarization, the requirement shows a switch between gain and lossy media at Brewster angle. As a proof of principle, by using conductive films as a special type of lossy antireflection coatings, we experimentally demonstrate the suppression of Fabry-Pérot resonances in a broad frequency range for microwaves. This valuable functionality can be applied to remove undesired resonant effects, such as the frequency-dependent side lobes induced by resonances in dielectric coverings of antennas. Our work provides a guide for the design of ultrathin antireflection coatings as well as their applications in broadband reflectionless devices.