bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cisplatin treatment increases stemness through upregulation of hypoxia‐inducible factors by interleukin‐6 in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Fuquan , Duan Shanzhou , Tsai Ying , Keng Peter C. , Chen Yongbing , Lee Soo Ok , Chen Yuhchyau
Published: March 2016

Cisplatin‐resistant A549 and H157 (A549CisR and H157CisR) non‐small cell lung cancer cells show increased stemness of cancer stem cells (CSCs) compared to their parental cells. We investigated whether interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) signaling contributes to this increased stemness in cisplatin‐resistant cells. When A549CisR and H157CisR cells were treated with neutralizing IL‐6 antibody, decreased cisplatin resistance was observed, whereas IL‐6 treatment of parental cells resulted in increased cisplatin resistance. Expression of the CSC markers was significantly upregulated in IL‐6‐expressing scramble cells (in vitro) and scramble cell‐derived tumor tissues (in vivo) after cisplatin treatment, but not in IL‐6 knocked down (IL‐6si) (in vitro) cells and in IL‐6si cell‐derived tumor tissues (in vivo), suggesting the importance of IL‐6 signaling in triggering increased stemness during cisplatin resistance development. Hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) were upregulated by IL‐6 and responsible for the increased CSC stemness on cisplatin treatment. Mechanism dissection studies found that upregulation of HIFs by IL‐6 was through transcriptional control and inhibition of HIF degradation. Treatment of HIF inhibitor (FM19G11) abolished the upregulation of CSC markers and increased sphere formations in IL‐6 expressing cells on cisplatin treatment. In all, IL‐6‐mediated HIF upregulation is important in increasing stemness during cisplatin resistance development, and we suggest that the strategies of inhibiting IL‐6 signaling or its downstream HIF molecules can be used as future therapeutic approaches to target CSCs after cisplatin treatment for lung cancer.
The influence of professional competence on the inter‐ and intra‐individual esthetic evaluation of implant‐supported crowns in the anterior maxilla
Authors: Petsos Hari , Trimpou Georgia , Eickholz Peter , Lauer Hans‐Christoph , Weigl Paul
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Evaluation of the influence of professional competence on esthetic predictability of implant‐supported crowns in the anterior maxilla and identification of objective factors allowing predictable planning for esthetic results.

Materials and methods

Sixty patients with 82 implants in the esthetic zone were included in this study. Width of keratinized mucosa, biotype, recessions, and papilla index according to Jemt as well as radiological bone loss were assessed. Study casts and photographs were obtained. Each patient as well as people with different level of expertise (laypersons, students and dentists) rated the esthetic satisfaction after final restoration on a scale (1–10). Correlations between esthetic assessments and previously documented clinical parameters were tested.

Results

The study failed to show a significant relationship between the raters' level of dental expertise and their subjective esthetic evaluation. However, patients rated themselves much more favorable than the three evaluator groups did. A comparison of the clinical parameters with the esthetic evaluation revealed significantly more favorable ratings by the lay group in the presence of a wide attached gingiva (P = 0.021) than by the other groups and by the laypersons (P = 0.002), the dentists (P = 0.003), and students (P = 0.009) in the absence of recessions. The ratio of the implant crown length to the length of the contralateral crown had a negative effect on ratings for all three groups ([laypersons P < 0.001], [students P < 0.001] and [dentists P = 0.001]). The papilla index of the mesial papilla correlated significantly with laypersons' ratings (P = 0.036).

Conclusion

Earlier investigations are confirmed. Width of keratinized mucosa is a risk factor for esthetic predictability of implant‐supported crowns in the anterior maxilla in laypersons' ratings. Furthermore, there is an association between the discrepancy of lengths of implant‐supported single crowns to their contralateral natural teeth and esthetic satisfaction for all expertise levels.
Bruxism and dental implant treatment complications: a retrospective comparative study of 98 bruxer patients and a matched group
Authors: Chrcanovic Bruno Ramos , Kisch Jenö , Albrektsson Tomas , Wennerberg Ann
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To analyze the complications of dental implant treatment in a group of patients with bruxism in comparison with a matched group of non‐bruxers.

Material and methods

Patients being diagnosed as bruxers were identified within a group of patients consecutively treated with implant‐supported prostheses at one specialist clinic, based on the most recent listed sign and symptoms of bruxism according to the International Classification of Sleep Disorders. A diagnostic grading system of “possible,” “probable,” and “definite” sleep or awake bruxism was used, according to a recent published international consensus. A case–control matching model was used to match the bruxers with a group of non‐bruxers, based on five variables. Implant‐, prosthetic‐, and patient‐related data were collected, as well as 14 mechanical complications, and compared between groups.

Results

Ninety‐eight of 2670 patients were identified as bruxers. The odds ratio of implant failure in bruxers in relation to non‐bruxers was 2.71 (95% CI 1.25, 5.88). Considering the same number of patients with the same total number of implants equally distributed between groups, the bruxers group had a higher prevalence of mechanical complications in comparison with the non‐bruxers group.

Conclusions

This study suggests that bruxism may significantly increase both the implant failure rate and the rate of mechanical and technical complications of implant‐supported restorations. Other risk factors may also have influenced the results.
Long‐term maintenance of efficacy of dapagliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Leiter L. A. , Cefalu W. T. , de Bruin T. W. A. , Xu J. , Parikh S. , Johnsson E. , Gause‐Nilsson I.
Published: March 2016

Aim

To evaluate the long‐term efficacy, safety and tolerability of dapagliflozin versus placebo added to usual care in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

Data were pooled from two phase III studies (NCT01031680 and NCT01042977) in high‐risk patients (N = 1887) with T2DM and CVD treated with dapagliflozin (10 mg/day) or placebo. Patients completing the double‐blind treatment studies (24 weeks) entered one or two sequential double‐blind, long‐term (LT) extensions of 28 (LT1; n = 1649) and 52 (LT2; n = 568) weeks.

Results

Baseline and CVD characteristics were similar in the two groups. Patients entering LT1 and LT2 on dapagliflozin maintained a greater mean reduction in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) versus placebo at 52 weeks [LT1, −0.58% (95% confidence interval −0.68, −0.49)] and 104 weeks [LT2, −0.35% (95% confidence interval −0.59, −0.12)]. Mean body weight and systolic blood pressure (SBP) reductions versus placebo were maintained in patients entering LT1 (52 weeks; −2.23 kg and −3.25 mmHg, respectively) and LT2 (104 weeks; −3.16 kg and −2.03 mmHg, respectively). Patients on dapagliflozin had a better three‐item composite endpoint of clinical benefit (glycaemia, weight and SBP) compared with placebo at week 24 (LT1, 10.1% vs. 1.1%) and week 104 (LT2, 6.7% vs. 1.4%). Genital and urinary tract infections were more frequent with dapagliflozin than with placebo. Events of hypoglycaemia, renal impairment/failure and volume depletion were similar between groups.

Conclusions

The long‐term efficacy of dapagliflozin to maintain reductions in HbA1c, SBP and body weight over 2 years, together with its tolerability profile, make dapagliflozin an appropriate option in high‐risk patients with T2DM and CVD.
A Rare Case of Aspergillus Pericarditis with Associated Myocardial Abscess and Echocardiographic Response to Therapy
Authors: Kupsky Daniel F. , Alaswad Khaldoon , Rabbani Bobak T.
Published: March 2016

Myocardial abscess is an extremely rare entity and is often deadly in nature. We present a case of a patient with recent orthotopic liver transplant, on immunosuppression, who presented with cardiac tamponade due to Aspergillus fumigatus pericarditis and associated myocardial abscess. The diagnosis was made based on computed tomography imaging, culture of pericardial fluid for Aspergillus, and transthoracic echocardiography. The patient received antifungal therapy with clinical improvement and documented reduction in abscess size based on repeat echocardiogram. Aspergillus myocardial abscess is an extremely rare diagnosis but should be considered in an immunosuppressed patient presenting with pericardial effusion or ventricular mass.
Over the top: do thermal barriers along elevation gradients limit biotic similarity?
Authors: Zuloaga Juan , Kerr Jeremy T.
Published: March 2016

Organismal dispersal through mountain passes should be more constrained by temperature‐related differences between lowland and highland sites in montane environments. This may lead to higher rates of diversification through isolation of existing lineages toward the tropics. This mechanism, proposed by Janzen, could influence broad‐scale patterns of biodiversity across mountainous regions and more broadly across latitudinal gradients. We constructed two complementary analyses to test this hypothesis. First, we measured topographically‐derived thermal gradients using recently‐developed climatic data across the Americas, reviewing the main expectations from Janzen's climatic model. Then, we evaluated whether thermal barriers predict assemblage similarity for amphibians and mammals along elevational gradients across most of their latitudinal extent in the Americas. Thermal barriers between low and high elevation areas, initially proposed to be unique to tropical environments, are comparably strong in some temperate regions, particularly along the western slopes of North American dividing ranges. Biotic similarity for both mammals and amphibians decreases between sites that are separated by elevation‐related thermal barriers. That is, the stronger the thermal barrier separating pairs of sites across the latitudinal gradient, the lower the similarity of their species assemblages. Thermal barriers explain 10–35% of the variation in latitudinal gradients of biotic similarity, effects that were stronger in comparisons of sites at high elevations. Mammals' stronger dispersal capacities and homeothermy may explain weaker effects of thermal barriers on gradients of assemblage similarity than among amphibians. Understanding how temperature gradients have shaped gradients of montane biological diversity in the past will improve understanding of how changing environments may affect them in the future.
Insight into the durability of plant resistance to aphids from a demo‐genetic study of Aphis gossypii in melon crops
Authors: Thomas Sophie , Vanlerberghe‐Masutti Flavie , Mistral Pascale , Loiseau Anne , Boissot Nathalie
Published: March 2016

Resistance breakdown has been observed following the deployment of plant cultivars resistant to pests. Assessing the durability of a resistance requires long‐term experiments at least at a regional scale. We collected such data for melon resistance conferred by the Vat gene cluster to melon aphids. We examined landscape‐level populations of Aphis gossypii collected in 2004–2015, from melon‐producing regions with and without the deployment of Vat resistance and with different climates. We conducted demo‐genetic analyses of the aphid populations on Vat and non‐Vat plants during the cropping seasons. The Vat resistance decreased the density of aphid populations in all areas and changed the genetic structure and composition of these populations. Two bottlenecks were identified in the dynamics of adapted clones, due to the low levels of production of dispersal morphs and winter extinction. Our results suggest that (i) Vat resistance will not be durable in the Lesser Antilles, where no bottleneck affected the dynamics of adapted clones, (ii) Vat resistance will be durable in south‐west France, where both bottlenecks affected the dynamics of adapted clones and (iii) Vat resistance will be less durable in south‐east France, where only one of the two bottlenecks was observed.
Microbial control of soil organic matter mineralization responses to labile carbon in subarctic climate change treatments
Authors: Rousk Kathrin , Michelsen Anders , Rousk Johannes
Published: March 2016

Half the global soil carbon (C) is held in high‐latitude systems. Climate change will expose these to warming and a shift towards plant communities with more labile C input. Labile C can also increase the rate of loss of native soil organic matter (SOM); a phenomenon termed ‘priming’. We investigated how warming (+1.1 °C over ambient using open top chambers) and litter addition (90 g m−2 yr−1) treatments in the subarctic influenced the susceptibility of SOM mineralization to priming, and its microbial underpinnings. Labile C appeared to inhibit the mineralization of C from SOM by up to 60% within hours. In contrast, the mineralization of N from SOM was stimulated by up to 300%. These responses occurred rapidly and were unrelated to microbial successional dynamics, suggesting catabolic responses. Considered separately, the labile C inhibited C mineralization is compatible with previously reported findings termed ‘preferential substrate utilization’ or ‘negative apparent priming’, while the stimulated N mineralization responses echo recent reports of ‘real priming’ of SOM mineralization. However, C and N mineralization responses derived from the same SOM source must be interpreted together: This suggested that the microbial SOM‐use decreased in magnitude and shifted to components richer in N. This finding highlights that only considering SOM in terms of C may be simplistic, and will not capture all changes in SOM decomposition. The selective mining for N increased in climate change treatments with higher fungal dominance. In conclusion, labile C appeared to trigger catabolic responses of the resident microbial community that shifted the SOM mining to N‐rich components; an effect that increased with higher fungal dominance. Extrapolating from these findings, the predicted shrub expansion in the subarctic could result in an altered microbial use of SOM, selectively mining it for N‐rich components, and leading to a reduced total SOM‐use.
Progress in upscaling Miscanthus biomass production for the European bio‐economy with seed‐based hybrids
Authors: Clifton‐Brown John , Hastings Astley , Mos Michal , McCalmont Jon P. , Ashman Chris , Awty‐Carroll Danny , Cerazy Joanna , Chiang Yu‐Chung , Cosentino Salvatore , Cracroft‐Eley William , Scurlock Jonathan , Donnison Iain S. , Glover Chris , Gołąb Izabela , Greef Jörg M. , Gwyn Jeff , Harding Graham , Hayes Charlotte , Helios Waldemar , Hsu Tsai‐Wen , Huang Lin S. , Jeżowski Stanisław , Kim Do‐Soon , Kiesel Andreas , Kotecki Andrzej , Krzyzak Jacek , Lewandowski Iris , Lim Soo Hyun , Liu Jianxiu , Loosely Marc , Meyer Heike , Murphy‐Bokern Donal , Nelson Walter , Pogrzeba Marta , Robinson George , Robson Paul , Rogers Charlie , Scalici Giovanni , Schuele Heinrich , Shafiei Reza , Shevchuk Oksana , Schwarz Kai‐Uwe , Squance Michael , Swaller Tim , Thornton Judith , Truckses Thomas , Botnari Vasile , Vizir Igor , Wagner Moritz , Warren Robin , Webster Richard , Yamada Toshihiko , Youell Sue , Xi Qingguo , Zong Junqin , Flavell Richard
Published: March 2016

Field trials in Europe with Miscanthus over the past 25 years have demonstrated that interspecies hybrids such as M. × giganteus (M × g) combine both high yield potentials and low inputs in a wide range of soils and climates. Miscanthus hybrids are expected to play a major role in the provision of perennial lignocellulosic biomass across much of Europe as part of a lower carbon economy. However, even with favourable policies in some European countries, uptake has been slow. M × g, as a sterile clone, can only be propagated vegetatively, which leads to high establishment costs and low multiplication rates. Consequently, a decade ago, a strategic decision to develop rapidly multiplied seeded hybrids was taken. To make progress on this goal, we have (1) harnessed the genetic diversity in Miscanthus by crossing and progeny testing thousands of parental combinations to select several candidate seed‐based hybrids adapted to European environments, (2) established field scale seed production methods with annual multiplication factors >1500×, (3) developed the agronomy for establishing large stands from seed sown plug plants to reduce establishment times by a year compared to M × g, (4) trialled a range of harvest techniques to improve compositional quality and logistics on a large scale, (5) performed spatial analyses of yield potential and land availability to identify regional opportunities across Europe and doubled the area within the bio‐climatic envelope, (6) considered on‐farm economic, practical and environmental benefits that can be attractive to growers. The technical barriers to adoption have now been overcome sufficiently such that Miscanthus is ready to use as a low‐carbon feedstock in the European bio‐economy.
Ablation Characteristic of Ilmenite using UV Nanosecond and Femtosecond Lasers: Implications for Non‐Matrix‐Matched Quantification
Authors: Li Zhen , Hu Zhaochu , Günther Detlef , Zong Keqing , Liu Yongsheng , Luo Tao , Zhang Wen , Gao Shan , Hu Shenghong
Published: March 2016

Ilmenite (FeTiO3) is a common accessory mineral and has been used as a powerful petrogenetic indicator in many geological settings. Elemental fractionation and matrix effects in ilmenite (CRN63E‐K) and silicate glass (NIST SRM 610) were investigated using 193 nm ArF excimer nanosecond (ns) laser and 257 nm femtosecond (fs) laser ablation systems coupled to an inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometer. The concentration‐normalised 57Fe and 49Ti responses in ilmenite were higher than those in NIST SRM 610 by a factor of 1.8 using fs‐LA. Compared with the 193 nm excimer laser, smaller elemental fractionation was observed using the 257 nm fs laser. When using 193 nm excimer laser ablation, the selected range of the laser energy density had a significant effect on the elemental fractionation in ilmenite. Scanning electron microscopy images of ablation craters and the morphologies of the deposited aerosol materials showed more melting effects and an enlarged particle deposition area around the ablation site of the ns‐LA‐generated crater when compared with those using fs‐LA. The ejected material around the ns crater predominantly consisted of large droplets of resolidified molten material; however, the ejected material around the fs crater consisted of agglomerates of fine particles with ‘rough' shapes. These observations are a result of the different ablation mechanisms for ns‐ and fs‐LAs. Non‐matrix‐matched calibration was applied for the analysis of ilmenite samples using NIST SRM 610 as a reference material for both 193 nm excimer LA‐ICP‐MS and fs‐LA‐ICP‐MS. Similar analytical results for most elements in ilmenite samples were obtained using both 193 nm excimer LA‐ICP‐MS at a high laser energy density of 12.7 J cm−2 and fs‐LA‐ICP‐MS.
Effect of Different Sampling Methodologies on Measured Methane Concentrations in Groundwater Samples
Authors: Molofsky Lisa J. , Richardson Stephen D. , Gorody Anthony W. , Baldassare Fred , Black June A. , McHugh Thomas E. , Connor John A.
Published: March 2016

Analysis of dissolved light hydrocarbon gas concentrations (primarily methane and ethane) in water supply wells is commonly used to establish conditions before and after drilling in areas of shale gas and oil extraction. Several methods are currently used to collect samples for dissolved gas analysis from water supply wells; however, the reliability of results obtained from these methods has not been quantified. This study compares dissolved methane and ethane concentrations measured in groundwater samples collected using three sampling methods employed in pre‐ and post‐drill sampling programs in the Appalachian Basin. These include an open‐system collection method where 40 mL volatile organic analysis (VOA) vials are filled directly while in contact with the atmosphere (Direct‐Fill VOA) and two alternative methods: (1) a semi‐closed system method whereby 40 mL VOA vials are filled while inverted under a head of water (Inverted VOA) and (2) a relatively new (2013) closed system method in which the sample is collected without direct contact with purge water or the atmosphere (IsoFlask®). This study reveals that, in the absence of effervescence, the difference in methane concentrations between the three sampling methods was relatively small. However, when methane concentrations equaled or exceeded 20 mg/L (the approximate concentration at which effervescence occurs in the study area), IsoFlask® (closed system) samples yielded significantly higher methane concentrations than Direct‐Fill VOA (open system) samples, and Inverted VOA (semi‐closed system) samples yielded lower concentrations. These results suggest that open and semi‐closed system sample collection methods are adequate for non‐effervescing samples. However, the use of a closed system collection method provides the most accurate means for the measurement of dissolved hydrocarbon gases under all conditions.
Crude Oil Metabolites in Groundwater at Two Spill Sites
Authors: Bekins Barbara A. , Cozzarelli Isabelle M. , Erickson Melinda L. , Steenson Ross A. , Thorn Kevin A.
Published: March 2016

Two groundwater plumes in north central Minnesota with residual crude oil sources have 20 to 50 mg/L of nonvolatile dissolved organic carbon (NVDOC). These values are over 10 times higher than benzene and two to three times higher than Diesel Range Organics in the same wells. On the basis of previous work, most of the NVDOC consists of partial transformation products from the crude oil. Monitoring data from 1988 to 2015 at one of the sites located near Bemidji, MN show that the plume of metabolites is expanding toward a lakeshore located 335 m from the source zone. Other mass balance studies of the site have demonstrated that the plume expansion is driven by the combined effect of continued presence of the residual crude oil source and depletion of the electron accepting capacity of solid phase iron oxide and hydroxides on the aquifer sediments. These plumes of metabolites are not covered by regulatory monitoring and reporting requirements in Minnesota and other states. Yet, a review of toxicology studies indicates that polar metabolites of crude oil may pose a risk to aquatic and mammalian species. Together the results suggest that at sites where residual sources are present, monitoring of NVDOC may be warranted to evaluate the fates of plumes of hydrocarbon transformation products.
Flares during long‐term entecavir therapy in chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Chi Heng , Arends Pauline , Reijnders Jurriën G P , Carey Ivana , Brown Ashley , Fasano Massimo , Mutimer David , Deterding Katja , Oo Ye H , Petersen Jörg , van Bommel Florian , de Knegt Robert J , Santantonio Teresa A , Berg Thomas , Welzel Tania M , Wedemeyer Heiner , Buti Maria , Pradat Pierre , Zoulim Fabien , Hansen Bettina E , Janssen Harry L A ,   for the VIRGIL Surveillance Study Group (European surveillance network for vigilance against viral resistance)
Published: March 2016

Background and Aim

The incidence and consequences of flares during first‐line nucleos(t)ide analogue therapy are largely unknown. We aimed to investigate the incidence and outcome of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) flares during long‐term entecavir (ETV) in chronic hepatitis B (CHB).

Methods

CHB patients treated with ETV monotherapy from 11 European centers were studied. Flare was defined as > 3× increase in ALT compared with baseline or lowest on‐treatment level and an absolute ALT > 3× ULN. Flares were designated as host‐induced (preceded by hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐DNA decline), virus‐induced (HBV‐DNA increase), or indeterminate (stable HBV‐DNA).

Results

Seven hundred and twenty‐nine patients were treated with ETV for median of 3.5 years. Thirty patients developed a flare with cumulative incidence of 6.3% at year 5. Baseline hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐positivity (HR 2.84; P = 0.005) and high HBV‐DNA (Hazard ratio (HR) 1.30; P = 0.003) predicted flares. There were 12 (40%) host‐induced, 7 (23%) virus‐induced, and 11 (37%) indeterminate flares. Host‐induced flares occurred earlier than virus‐induced (median: 15 vs 83 weeks; P = 0.027) or indeterminate flares (15 vs 109 weeks; P = 0.011). Host‐induced flares were associated with biochemical remission, and HBeAg (n = 3) and hepatitis B surface antigen (n = 2) seroconversions were exclusively observed among patients with these flares. Virus‐induced flares were associated with ETV resistance (n = 2) and non‐compliance (n = 1).

Conclusion

The incidence of ALT flares during ETV was low in this real‐life cohort. ETV can be safely continued in patients with host‐induced flares. Treatment adherence and drug resistance must be assessed in patients with virus‐induced flares.
Asian consensus on the relationship between obesity and gastrointestinal and liver diseases
Authors: Koh Jianyi Calvin , Loo Wai Mun , Goh Khean Lee , Sugano Kentaro , Chan Wah Kheong , Chiu Wai Yan Philip , Choi Myung‐Gyu , Gonlachanvit Sutep , Lee Wei‐Jei , Lee Wei Jie Jonathan , Lee Yeong Yeh , Lesmana Laurentius A , Li You‐Ming , Liu Chun Jen , Matsuura Bunzo , Nakajima Atsushi , Ng Enders Kwok Wai , Sollano Jose D , Wong Simon Kin Hung , Wong Vincent W S , Yang Yunsheng , Ho Khek Yu , Dan Yock Young
Published: March 2016

The incidence of obesity is increasing in Asia, with implications on gastrointestinal (GI) and liver diseases. The Gut and Obesity in Asia Workgroup comprises regional experts with the aim of studying relationship between obesity and the GI and liver diseases in Asia. Through literature review and the modified Delphi process, consensus statements examining the impact of obesity on esophageal, gastric, pancreatic, colorectal, and liver diseases, exploring relationship between gut microbiome and obesity, and assessing obesity therapies have been produced by the Gut and Obesity in Asia Workgroup. Sixteen experts participated with 9/15 statements having strong consensus (>80% agreement). The prevalence of obesity in Asia is increasing (100% percentage agreement in brackets), and this increased prevalence of obesity will result in a greater burden of obesity‐related GI and liver diseases (93.8%). There was consensus that obesity increases the risk of gastric cancer (75%) and colorectal neoplasia (87.5%). Obesity was also associated with Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma (66.7%) and pancreatic cancer (66.7%) in Asia. The prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in Asia is on the rise (100%), and the risk of NAFLD in Asia (100%) is increased by obesity. Obesity is a risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (93.8%). Regarding therapy, it was agreed that bariatric surgery was an effective treatment modality for obesity (93.8%) but there was less agreement on its benefit for NAFLD (62.5%). These experts' consensus on obesity and GI diseases in Asia forms the basis for further research, and its translation into addressing this emerging issue.
All‐oral daclatasvir plus asunaprevir for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1b infection: a sub‐analysis in Asian patients from the HALLMARK DUAL study
Authors: Kao Jia‐Horng , Lee Youn‐Jae , Heo Jeong , Ahn Sang‐Hoon , Lim Young‐Suk , Peng Cheng‐Yuan , Chang Ting‐Tsung , Torbeyns Anne , Hughes Eric , Bhore Rafia , Noviello Stephanie
Published: March 2016

Background & Aims

Daclatasvir plus asunaprevir (DCV + ASV) has demonstrated potent antiviral activity in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1b (GT‐1b) infection in the HALLMARK DUAL trial. This post hoc analysis was conducted to determine the efficacy and safety of this treatment in Asian patients.

Methods

Treatment‐naive patients were randomly assigned (2:1; double‐blinded) to receive DCV (60 mg once daily) plus ASV (100 mg twice daily) or placebo for 12 weeks. Subsequently, placebo patients entered another study, and the remaining patients continued treatment for an additional 12 weeks. Non‐responders to peginterferon/ribavirin and ineligible/intolerant patients received dual therapy for 24 weeks. Sustained virological response at post‐treatment Week 12 [sustained virological response (SVR)12] and safety outcomes were evaluated.

Results

This post hoc analysis included 186 Asian patients (Korean, 78; Taiwanese, 85; others, 23), of whom 32.3% were cirrhotic. SVR12 was observed in 92.3, 78.6 and 80.0% of treatment‐naive, ineligible/intolerant and non‐responder patients, respectively, and was comparable with non‐Asian patients. SVR12 by baseline factors including age, viral load, interleukin‐28B genotype and cirrhosis status was similar between the Asian sub‐cohorts. Among 18 Asian patients with NS5A‐Y93H or NS5A‐L31M/V resistance‐associated variants (RAVs), seven patients achieved SVR12. Multivariate regression analysis showed a significant influence of NS5A RAVs in both Asian and non‐Asian cohorts. The incidence of serious adverse events in Asian patients was low (7.2%). Two Taiwanese patients had elevated alanine aminotransferase (≥5.1 × ULN); both achieved SVR12.

Conclusions

All‐oral dual therapy with DCV + ASV resulted in high SVR rates and was well tolerated in Asian patients with HCV GT‐1b infection.
Is a ‘Complex’ Task Really Complex? Validating the Assumption of Cognitive Task Complexity
Authors: SASAYAMA SHOKO
Published: March 2016

In research on task‐based learning and teaching, it has traditionally been assumed that differing degrees of cognitive task complexity can be inferred through task design and/or observations of differing qualities in linguistic production elicited by second language (L2) communication tasks. Without validating this assumption, however, it is unclear at best whether the designed or inferred difference in complexity, the key independent variable, is realized as intended. Accordingly, this study adopted diverse methods from cognitive psychology for independently measuring cognitive task complexity, including: dual‐task methodology, time estimation, and self‐rating. Fifty‐three English‐L2 speakers in Japan, representing distinct proficiency levels, narrated 4 picture sequences, each containing differing numbers of characters. While performing the primary story‐telling task, participants simultaneously completed a secondary task of reacting to a color change. After each story‐telling, they also estimated their time‐on‐task and rated their perceptions of task difficulty and mental effort. Results revealed that only large differences in the task design feature (i.e., number of elements) were detectable in terms of independent measures of cognitive complexity. This finding underscores the importance of validating the assumptions about the relationship between task design and its putative effects on cognitive complexity. Findings also indicated a potential interaction among proficiency, task designs, and measures of cognitive load.
Infection of non‐host model plant species with the narrow‐host‐range Cacao swollen shoot virus
Authors: Friscina Arianna , Chiappetta Laura , Jacquemond Mireille , Tepfer Mark
Published: March 2016

Cacao swollen shoot virus (CSSV) is a major pathogen of cacao (Theobroma cacao) in Africa, and long‐standing efforts to limit its spread by the culling of infected trees have had very limited success. CSSV is a particularly difficult virus to study, as it has a very narrow host range, limited to several tropical tree species. Furthermore, the virus is not mechanically transmissible, and its insect vector can only be used with difficulty. Thus, the only efficient means to infect cacao plants that have been experimentally described so far are by particle bombardment or the agroinoculation of cacao plants with an infectious clone. We have genetically transformed three non‐host species with an infectious form of the CSSV genome: two experimental hosts widely used in plant virology (Nicotiana tabacum and N. benthamiana) and the model species Arabidopsis thaliana. In transformed plants of all three species, the CSSV genome was able to replicate, and, in tobacco, CSSV particles could be observed by immunosorbent electron microscopy, demonstrating that the complete virus cycle could be completed in a non‐host plant. These results will greatly facilitate the preliminary testing of CSSV control strategies using plants that are easy to raise and to transform genetically.
Lower early postnatal oxygen saturation target and risk of ductus arteriosus closure failure
Authors: Inomata Kei , Taniguchi Shinji , Yonemoto Hiroki , Inoue Takeshi , Kawase Akihiko , Kondo Yuichi
Published: March 2016

Background

Early postnatal hyperoxia is a major risk factor for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in extremely premature infants. To reduce the occurrence of ROP, we adopted a lower early postnatal oxygen saturation (SpO2) target range (85–92%) from April 2011. Lower SpO2 target range, however, may lead to hypoxemia and an increase in the risk of ductus arteriosus (DA) closure failure. The aim of this study was therefore to determine whether a lower SpO2 target range, during the early postnatal stage, increases the risk of DA closure failure.

Methods

Infants born at <28 weeks' gestation were enrolled in this study. Oxygen saturation target range during the first postnatal 72 h was 84–100% in study period 1 and 85–92% in period 2.

Results

Eighty‐two infants were included in period 1, and 61 were included in period 2. The lower oxygen saturation target range increased the occurrence of hypoxemia during the first postnatal 72 h. Prevalence of DA closure failure in period 2 (21%) was significantly higher than that in period 1 (1%). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the lower oxygen saturation target range was an independent risk factor for DA closure failure.

Conclusion

Lower early postnatal oxygen saturation target range increases the risk of DA closure failure.
Incidence of Mood or Anxiety Disorders in Children of Parents with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Razaz Neda , Tremlett Helen , Boyce Thomas , Guhn Martin , Marrie Ruth Ann , Joseph KS
Published: March 2016

Background

Although parental multiple sclerosis (MS) may put children at increased risk for mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, the incidence and determinants of such disorders have not been examined.

Method

We carried out a retrospective cohort study in British Columbia, Canada, among children of parents with MS and age‐matched children of unaffected parents. Cox regression was used to estimate the association between parental MS and mood or anxiety disorders in children.

Results

The study included 1028 children of MS parents, 4010 children of unaffected parents, and 25 464 child‐years of follow‐up (median follow‐up of 4 years). Mental health morbidity was more common among MS parents vs. unaffected parents (50.4% vs. 33.1%) and among MS‐affected mothers vs. unaffected mothers (54.6% vs. 38.0%, P < 0.001). The incidence of child mood or anxiety disorders was 8.3 and 6.3 per 1000 child‐years among children of parents with and without MS respectively. Sex of the MS‐affected parent modified the relationship between parental MS and mood or anxiety disorders in children (P = 0.04). Compared with children of unaffected mothers, children of mothers affected by MS had higher rates of mood or anxiety disorders (HR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1, 2.4), whereas children of MS‐affected fathers did not (HR 0.5, 95% CI 0.2, 1.7). Adjustment for mental health morbidity in mothers diminished the association between maternal MS and child mood or anxiety disorders.

Conclusion

Maternal MS is associated with a higher rate of mood or anxiety disorders in children and this association appeared to be mediated by maternal mental health morbidity.
Cardiovascular and antacid treatment and mortality in oxygen‐dependent pulmonary fibrosis: A population‐based longitudinal study
Authors: Ekström Magnus , Bornefalk‐Hermansson Anna
Published: March 2016

Background and objective

Severe idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and gastro‐oesophageal reflux, which may influence prognosis. We evaluated associations between cardiovascular and antacid medications, and mortality, in oxygen‐dependent pulmonary fibrosis (PF) of unknown cause.

Methods

Prospective population‐based study of adults starting long‐term oxygen therapy (LTOT) for PF in Sweden 2005–2009. PF of unknown cause was defined by excluding patients with known or probable secondary PF. Time‐dependent associations between medications and all‐cause mortality were analysed using extended Cox regression, adjusting for potential confounders including age, sex, vital capacity, blood gases, body mass index, performance status, comorbidity and concurrent medications.

Results

Of 462 included patients, 329 (71%) died under observation. No patient was lost to follow‐up. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ACEI/ARB) were associated with reduced adjusted mortality (HR 0.63; 0.47–0.85) and antiplatelet drugs with increased mortality (HR 1.49; 1.11–2.00), largely driven by higher mortality in women. There were no associations with mortality for antacid treatments, β‐blockers, diuretics or statins.

Conclusion

In oxygen‐dependent PF, treatment with ACEI/ARB was associated with improved survival, antiplatelet drugs with decreased survival, whereas there was no association between antacid, β‐blocker, diuretic or statin treatment and survival.
Institutional thickening and innovation: reflections on the remapping of the Great Bear Rainforest
Authors: Clapp Alex , Hayter Roger , Affolderbach Julia , Guzman Laura
Published: March 2016

As a response to forest conflict, contemporary remapping refers to re‐evaluations of resource values, new and diverse forms of governance among stakeholders, and compromises within patterns of land use that give greater emphasis to environmental and cultural priorities. This paper elaborates the processes of remapping by examining the role of institutional innovation in conflict resolution, with particular reference to the iconic Great Bear Rainforest of British Columbia. After years of conflict and protest, peace in the Great Bear Rainforest was heralded by an interim agreement in 2006, with final ratification likely in 2016. Conceptually, a four‐legged stakeholder model identifies the main institutional interests and their interactions through learning and bargaining. New forms of governance were created to bring the stakeholders together in constructive dialogue and then to reach and implement acceptable bargains. Analytically, the paper examines how this agreement has worked in practice by reflecting on the emergence of novel institutions that integrate the interests of key stakeholders. The discussion identifies six bilateral negotiations between: industrial and environmental interests; federal and provincial governments and aboriginal peoples; government and environmental interests; government and industry; industry and aboriginal peoples; and environmental groups and local communities. The remapping process has produced a thickening architecture of institutions that remain experimental even as they seek to promote sustainability, resilience and legitimacy.
Dynamic Modeling and Simulation of a Yaw-Angle Quadruped Maneuvering With a Planar Robotic Tail
Authors: Rone William , Ben-Tzvi Pinhas
Published: March 2016

This paper analyzes the impact a planar robotic tail can have on the yaw-angle maneuvering of a quadruped robot. Tail structures ranging from a one degree-of-freedom (1DOF) pendulum to a 6DOF serpentine robot are simulated, along with a quadruped model that accounts for ground contact friction. Tail trajectory generation using split-cycle frequency modulation is used to improve net quadruped rotation due to the tail's motion. Numerical results from the tail and quadruped models analyze the impact of trajectory factors and tail structure on the net quadruped rotation. Results emphasize the importance of both tangential and centripetal tail loading for tail trajectory planning and show the benefit of a multi-DOF tail.
A Combined Variable Displacement–Digital Cylinder Hydraulic Drive for Large Presses With High Operating Frequencies
Authors: Messner Florian , Scheidl Rudolf , Haas Rainer , Gattringer Hubert , Springer Klemens
Published: March 2016

In this technical brief, a novel hydraulic drive for large forces and power ratings at relatively high operating frequencies combining variable displacement control and hydraulic digital control is introduced. Basic analog motion control is achieved via variable displacement pumps driving a first cylinder stage. Digital control is realized by switching additional hydraulic cylinder stages on and off to support the analog stage if high forces are needed. The control strategy corresponds to this hydraulic concept. It consists of a feed forward control, a switching logic for the digital booster stages and a feed back proportional-integral (PI) control for stabilization. The validity of this concept and of the control strategy are shown by experiments on a highly downscaled test rig.
Residual stress and bending strength of ZnO films deposited on polyimide sheet by RF sputtering system
Authors: Kusaka Kazuya , Maruoka Yutaka , Matsue Tatsuya
Published: March 2016

Zinc oxide (ZnO) films were deposited on a soft polyimide sheet substrate by radio frequency sputtering with a ZnO powder target, and the films' crystal orientations and residual stress were investigated using x-ray diffraction as a function of substrate temperature. C-axis oriented ZnO films were achieved using this ZnO powder target method. The ZnO films exhibited high compressive residual stresses between −0.7 and −1.4 GPa. Finally, the authors examined the strength of the obtained film by applying tensile bending loads. No cracks were observed on the surfaces of the ZnO films after a bending test using cylinders with diameters >25 mm. After a bending test using a cylinder with a diameter of 19 mm, large cracks were formed on the films. Therefore, the authors concluded that the tensile bending strength of the obtained films was greater than ∼420 MPa.
Point spread function and total process function measured for a variable-shaped electron beam system
Authors: Asteiner Michael , Schlemmer Christian , Speckbacher Peter , Hoffmann Karl E.
Published: March 2016

In the field of electron beam lithography, accurate exposure requires a precise proximity effect correction (PEC). The most common approaches for PEC such as dose modification, shape modification, and hybrid models require the evaluation of the point spread function (PSF) and, in view of real applications, the measurement of the total process function (TPF) considering both tool behavior and process effects. In contrast to research tools equipped with a Gaussian beam column, variable-shaped beam (VSB) systems are established in the commercial field, e.g., for mask fabrication. In this paper, the authors present an approach to measure PSF and TPF on a VSB lithography tool. This method is based on the well known point exposure distribution measurement technique early introduced for Gaussian beam systems by Rishton and Kern [J. Vac. Sci. Technol., B 5, 135 (1987)]. The approach is enhanced by application of specific features provided on a VSB system. The interpretation of the experiment was enabled by a comparison of the measured data with calculations of the energy deposition in the resist using Monte Carlo simulations. Results are presented for hydrogen silsesquioxane and Novolac negative tone resists that are used on standard i-line photomasks.
Vocalizations of Amazon river dolphins (Inia geoffrensis): Characterization, effect of physical environment and differences between populations
Authors: Amorim Thiago Orion Simões , Andriolo Artur , Reis Sarah S. , dos Santos Manuel E.
Published: March 2016

The vocal repertoire of the Amazon river dolphin and its geographic variations are still poorly known, especially in relation to ecological variables. Here the acoustic characteristics of low frequency pulsed vocalizations, with single or multiple pulses, recorded in two protected areas of the Amazon were described and differences in acoustic emissions related to water properties were analyzed. Both frequency and time parameters differ relative to abiotic condition of water turbidity. Changes in the animals' acoustic behavior might be due to differences in sound propagation between rich-sediment water and clear water. Geographic variation was found in frequency and time parameters, requiring further investigation.
ACOUSTICAL STANDARDS NEWS
Authors: Blaeser Susan B. , Struck Christopher J.
Published: March 2016

American National Standards (ANSI Standards) developed by Accredited Standards Committees S1, S2, S3, S3/SC 1, and S12 in the areas of acoustics, mechanical vibration and shock, bioacoustics, animal bioacoustics, and noise, respectively, are published by the Acoustical Society of America (ASA). In addition to these standards, ASA publishes a catalog of Acoustical American National Standards. To receive a copy of the latest Standards catalog, please contact Susan B. Blaeser.

Comments are welcomed on all material in Acoustical Standards News.

This Acoustical Standards News section in JASA, as well as the National Catalog of Acoustical Standards and other information on the Standards Program of the Acoustical Society of America, are available via the ASA home page: http://acousticalsociety.org.
Comb jelly ‘anus’ guts ideas on origin of through-gut
Authors: Maxmen Amy
Published: March 2016

Videos of captive marine creatures unexpectedly show jellies defecate from pores, not via their mouth.
Turkish scholar who eluded arrest describes ‘witch hunt’
Authors: Bohannon John
Published: March 2016

Three of Meral Camcı's fellow academics are imprisoned for criticizing the government; more arrests may follow.
Survey of variation in human transcription factors reveals prevalent DNA binding changes
Authors: Barrera Luis A. , Vedenko Anastasia , Kurland Jesse V. , Rogers Julia M. , Gisselbrecht Stephen S. , Rossin Elizabeth J. , Woodard Jaie , Mariani Luca , Kock Kian Hong , Inukai Sachi , Siggers Trevor , Shokri Leila , Gordân Raluca , Sahni Nidhi , Cotsapas Chris , Hao Tong , Yi Song , Kellis Manolis , Daly Mark J. , Vidal Marc , Hill David E. , Bulyk Martha L.
Published: March 2016

Variation and transcription factor binding

Little is known about the phenotypic and functional effects of genetic variants that result in amino acid changes within functional proteins. Barreraet al.investigated whether amino acid variants changed the DNA binding specificity or affinity of transcription factors. Predictive analyses identified changes in the proteins, and protein-binding microarrays verified changes that affected transcription factor function, including those associated with disease. Thus, within-human protein sequence variation can affect transcriptional regulatory networks, which, depending on the genetic variant, may confer robustness and buffer against amino acid changes and could explain phenotypic variation among individuals.

Science, this issue p.1450
Response to Comment on “Single-trial spike trains in parietal cortex reveal discrete steps during decision-making”
Authors: Latimer Kenneth W. , Yates Jacob L. , Meister Miriam L. R. , Huk Alexander C. , Pillow Jonathan W.
Published: March 2016

Shadlen
et al
.’s Comment focuses on extrapolations of our results that were not implied or asserted in our Report. They discuss alternate analyses of average firing rates in other tasks, the relationship between neural activity and behavior, and possible extensions of the standard models we examined. Although interesting to contemplate, these points are not germane to the findings of our Report: that stepping dynamics provided a better statistical description of lateral intraparietal area spike trains than diffusion-to-bound dynamics for a majority of neurons.