bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autophagy impairment in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Karabiyik Cansu , Lee Min Jae , Rubinsztein David C.
Published: December 2017

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a debilitating movement disorder typically associated with the accumulation of intracytoplasmic aggregate prone protein deposits. Over recent years, increasing evidence has led to the suggestion that the mutations underlying certain forms of PD impair autophagy. Autophagy is a degradative pathway that delivers cytoplasmic content to lysosomes for degradation and represents a major route for degradation of aggregated cellular proteins and dysfunctional organelles. Autophagy up-regulation is a promising therapeutic strategy that is being explored for its potential to protect cells against the toxicity of aggregate-prone proteins in neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we describe how the mutations in different subtypes of PD can affect different stages of autophagy.
Autophagy’s secret life: secretion instead of degradation
Authors: Claude-Taupin Aurore , Jia Jingyue , Mudd Michal , Deretic Vojo
Published: December 2017

Autophagy is conventionally described as a degradative, catabolic pathway and a tributary to the lysosomal system where the cytoplasmic material sequestered by autophagosomes gets degraded. However, autophagosomes or autophagosome-related organelles do not always follow this route. It has recently come to light that autophagy can terminate in cytosolic protein secretion or release of sequestered material from the cells, rather than in their degradation. In this review, we address this relatively new but growing aspect of autophagy as a complex pathway, which is far more versatile than originally anticipated.
mTORC1 as the main gateway to autophagy
Authors: Rabanal-Ruiz Yoana , Otten Elsje G. , Korolchuk Viktor I.
Published: December 2017

Cells and organisms must coordinate their metabolic activity with changes in their environment to ensure their growth only when conditions are favourable. In order to maintain cellular homoeostasis, a tight regulation between the synthesis and degradation of cellular components is essential. At the epicentre of the cellular nutrient sensing is the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) which connects environmental cues, including nutrient and growth factor availability as well as stress, to metabolic processes in order to preserve cellular homoeostasis. Under nutrient-rich conditions mTORC1 promotes cell growth by stimulating biosynthetic pathways, including synthesis of proteins, lipids and nucleotides, and by inhibiting cellular catabolism through repression of the autophagic pathway. Its close signalling interplay with the energy sensor AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) dictates whether the cell actively favours anabolic or catabolic processes. Underlining the role of mTORC1 in the coordination of cellular metabolism, its deregulation is linked to numerous human diseases ranging from metabolic disorders to many cancers. Although mTORC1 can be modulated by a number of different inputs, amino acids represent primordial cues that cannot be compensated for by any other stimuli. The understanding of how amino acids signal to mTORC1 has increased considerably in the last years; however this area of research remains a hot topic in biomedical sciences. The current ideas and models proposed to explain the interrelationship between amino acid sensing, mTORC1 signalling and autophagy is the subject of the present review.
Signalling mechanisms in autophagy: an introduction to the issue
Authors: Lane Jon D. , Korolchuk Viktor I. , Murray James T.
Published: December 2017

Essays in Biochemistry volume 61 (issue 6), entitled Signalling Mechanisms in Autophagy, covers a range of topics in autophagy signalling, touching on emerging new details on the mechanisms of autophagy regulation, novel aspects of selective autophagy and how autophagy functions in organelle homeostasis. It also looks at how autophagy research is leading to better understanding of human disease and plant biology that can be exploited for the benefit of society.
Dissecting neutrophil complexity in cancer
Authors: Ponzetta Andrea , Mantovani Alberto , Jaillon Sebastien
Published: December 2017

Neutrophils represent the most abundant leukocyte population in human peripheral blood, and their role had long been considered restricted to their phagocytic and antimicrobial activities during the acute phase of inflammation. However, an increasing number of recent investigations had highlighted their possible impact in tumor initiation and development, and the nature of neutrophil contribution in cancer had become a hot topic in immunology. Over the years, neutrophils have been shown to display both pro-tumor and antitumor effects, emphasizing an unexpected cellular heterogeneity in cancer. In this review, we will focus on the several ‘shades’ of neutrophils in tumor initiation, growth and metastasis. In addition, we will discuss the clinical significance of tumor-associated neutrophils in humans and their potential targeting in cancer therapy.
Mesenchymal traits at the convergence of tumor-intrinsic and -extrinsic mechanisms of resistance to immune checkpoint blockers
Authors: Trono Paola , Sistigu Antonella , Palermo Belinda , Ciliberto Gennaro , Nisticò Paola
Published: December 2017

Targeting of immune checkpoint blockers (ICBs), such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 and programmed-death 1/programmed-death ligand 1, has dramatically changed the landscape of cancer treatment. Seeing patients who were refractory to conventional therapy recover after immunotherapy, with high rates of objective durable responses and increased overall survival, has raised great enthusiasm in cancer care and research. However, to date, only a restricted portion of patients benefit from these therapies, due to natural and acquired resistance relying on the ever-evolving cross-talk between tumor and stromal cells. Here, we review the convergence of tumor-intrinsic and -extrinsic cues, both affecting tumor plasticity and tumor stroma leading to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, which may account for the heterogeneous responses and resistance to ICB therapies. A deeper knowledge of the mechanisms and fingerprints involved in natural and acquired resistance is likely to bring clinical benefit to the majority of patients, offering important clues for overcoming drug resistance and boosting the effectiveness of treatment. We discuss the need to define tumor subtypes based on the tumor, immune and stromal gene signature and propose that the better we understand tumor mesenchymal traits, the more we will be able to identify predictive biomarkers of response to ICB treatments.
Oncogenic pathways as the basis of primary immune ignorance
Authors: Patel Maulik
Published: December 2017

The success of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies (ICTs) to bring about durable clinical responses in a subset of patients with different cancer histologies is transforming cancer care. However, many patients do not benefit from single-agent ICT, including patients with melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer, which are often considered to be immunogenic tumor types. In addition, several other common solid tumors, such as breast, colon, and prostate cancers, have reported very low response rates. A growing body of evidence suggests that the majority of tumors may be categorized as being primary immune-ignorant tumors, hence precluding response to single-agent ICTs. The molecular mechanisms that govern the immune-ignorant phenotype are under intense investigation. This review focuses on how oncogenic pathways can promote the development of a primary immune-ignorant tumor.
Mesenchymal stromal cell plasticity and the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Bae Hee Joon , Liu Shutong , Jin Ping , Stroncek David
Published: December 2017

Mesenchymal stem cells or mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a multipotent, heterogeneous population of cells that play a critical role in wound healing and tissue regeneration. MSCs, found in the tumor microenvironment, support tumor growth through the production of angiogenic factors, growth factors and extracellular matrix proteins. They also have immunomodulatory properties, and since they produce indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), they have been thought to have primarily immunosuppressive effects. However, their role in the tumor microenvironment is complex and demonstrates plasticity depending on location, stimulatory factors and environment. The presence of melanoma-activated tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) has been shown to produce pro-inflammatory changes with TH1 (type 1T helper)-like phenotype in MSCs via activated-TIL released cytokines such as interferon γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1α (IL-1α), while simultaneously producing factors, such as IDO1, which have been traditionally associated with immunosuppression. Similarly, the combination of IFN-γ and TNF-α polarizes MSCs to a primarily TH1-like phenotype with the expression of immunosuppressive factors. Ultimately, further studies are encouraged and needed for a greater understanding of the role of MSCs in the tumor microenvironment and to improve cancer immunotherapy.
Narrowband balanced absorptive bandstop filter integrated with wideband bandpass response
Authors: Kong Mengdan , Wu Yongle , Zhuang Zheng , Liu Yuanan
Published: December 2017

A novel narrowband balanced absorptive bandstop filter (BABSF) with wideband bandpass response is proposed, which consists of four coupled‐line sections with open‐circuited stubs, two half‐wavelength transmission lines, and two ground resistors. Excellent differential‐mode response with narrowband bandstop response and wideband bandpass property is realised for high frequency selectivity. Good common‐mode suppression can be achieved, rejecting the interference noise. For demonstration, a BABSF prototype operating at 2 GHz is designed with good agreement between simulated and measured results.
Wideband partially reflecting surface antenna with broadband RCS reduction
Authors: Jiang Hao , Xue Zhenghui , Leng Meifang , Li Weiming , Ren Wu
Published: December 2017

A wideband partially reflecting surface (PRS) antenna with broadband reduced radar cross‐section reduction (RCSR) is demonstrated in this study. The proposed antenna consists of a microstrip patch, a triple‐layer PRS, and a defective frequency selective surface (FSS) ground plane. The PRS is the combination of a dual‐layer RS and an absorbing surface, which is located nearly one‐half of the wavelength above the ground. The RS is a complementary structure with a positive phase gradient, so the wideband gain enhancement is accomplished. In addition, a defective ground plane, which consists of the band‐stop FSS, is designed to obtain an enhanced RCSR. Experimental results illustrate the impedance bandwidth of the presented antenna is 10.2% and the peak gain is 14.4 dBi at 6.3 GHz. Comparing to the patch antenna of the same dimension, a broadband RCSR from 8 to 18 GHz is obtained, where many types of radars are strategically deployed, and the average number of RCSR is 12.6 dB. The proposed PRS antenna is a promising candidate for absorbing elements in scientific and military applications.
Collisionless Boltzmann equation approach for the study of stellar discs within barred galaxies
Authors: Bienaymé Olivier
Published: December 2017

We have studied the kinematics of stellar disc populations within the solar neighbourhood in order to find the imprints of the Galactic bar. We carried out the analysis by developing a numerical resolution of the 2D2V (two-dimensional in the physical space, 2D, and two-dimensional in the velocity motion, 2V) collisionless Boltzmann equation and modelling the stellar motions within the plane of the Galaxy within the solar neighbourhood. We recover similar results to those obtained by other authors using N-body simulations, but we are also able to numerically identify faint structures thanks to the cancelling of the Poisson noise. We find that the ratio of the bar pattern speed to the local circular frequency is in the range ΩB∕Ω = 1.77 to 1.91. If the Galactic bar angle orientation is within the range from 24 to 45 degrees, the bar pattern speed is between 46 and 49 km s−1 kpc−1.
Line-dependent veiling in very active classical T Tauri stars
Authors: Rei A. C. S. , Petrov P. P. , Gameiro J. F.
Published: December 2017

Context. The T Tauri stars with active accretion disks show veiled photospheric spectra. This is supposedly due to non-photospheric continuum radiated by hot spots beneath the accretion shocks at stellar surface and/or chromospheric emission lines radiated by the post-shocked gas. The amount of veiling is often considered as a measure of the mass-accretion rate.

Aim. We analysed high-resolution photospheric spectra of accreting T Tauri stars LkHα 321, V1331 Cyg, and AS 353A with the aim of clarifying the nature of the line-dependent veiling. Each of these objects shows a strong emission line spectrum and powerful wind features indicating high rates of accretion and mass loss.

Methods. Equivalent widths of hundreds of weak photospheric lines were measured in the observed spectra of high quality and compared with those in synthetic spectra of appropriate models of stellar atmospheres.

Results. The photospheric spectra of the three T Tauri stars are highly veiled. We found that the veiling is strongly line-dependent: larger in stronger photospheric lines and weak or absent in the weakest ones. No dependence of veiling on excitation potential within 0 to 5 eV was found. Different physical processes responsible for these unusual veiling effects are discussed in the framework of the magnetospheric accretion model.

Conclusions. The observed veiling has two origins: (1) an abnormal structure of stellar atmosphere heated up by the accreting matter, and (2) a non-photospheric continuum radiated by a hot spot with temperature lower than 10 000 K. The true level of the veiling continuum can be derived by measuring the weakest photospheric lines with equivalent widths down to ≈10 mÅ. A limited spectral resolution and/or low signal-to-noise ratio results in overestimation of the veiling continuum. In the three very active stars, the veiling continuum is a minor contributor to the observed veiling, while the major contribution comes from the line-dependent veiling.
Impacts of a novel shellfishing gear on macrobenthos in a marine protected area: pump-scoop dredging in Poole Harbour, UK
Authors: Clarke Leo J. , Esteves Luciana S. , Stillman Richard A. , Herbert Roger J.H.
Published: December 2017

Understanding the impact of bottom-fishing gears at various scales and intensities on habitats and species is necessary to inform management. In Poole Harbour, UK, a multiple use marine protected area, fishermen utilise a unique ̋“pump-scoop” dredge to harvest the introduced Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum. Managers need to balance the socio-economic benefits of the fishery with ecological concerns across the region, which has required a revision of by-laws that include both spatial and temporal measures. Within an operational fishery, we used a Before-After-Control-Impact sampling design to assess the impacts of pump-scoop dredging on benthic physical characteristics and community structure in an area where there was no dredging, an area newly opened to dredging and an area subject to high levels of historic dredging. A sampling grid was used in each area to best capture any fishing effort in the newly opened area. Core samples were taken to a depth of 30 cm within intertidal mudflats. A significant loss of fine sediments was observed in the site subject to high intensity dredging and a significant change in community structure also occurred in both dredged sites throughout the study period. In the newly opened site this was characterised by a relative increase in species richness, including increased abundance of annelid worms, notably Hediste diversicolor and Aphelochaeta marioni and a decline in the abundance of the bivalve mollusc Abra tenuis. These changes, albeit relatively small, are attributed to physical disturbance as a direct result of pump-scoop dredging, although no difference in the classification of the biotope of the site was observed. This is of particular interest to managers monitoring site condition within areas under the new by-laws as the Manila clam is spreading to other protected estuaries in the region.
Intramolecular Cycloaddition Approach to Fused Pyrazoles: Access to 4,5-Dihydro-2H-pyrazolo[4,3-c]quinolines, 2,8-Dihydroindeno[2,1-c]pyrazoles, and 4,5-Dihydro-2H-benzo[e]indazoles
Authors: Chowdhury Chinmay , Jash Moumita , Das Bimolendu , Sen Suparna
Published: December 2017

A straightforward and efficient method for the synthesis of pyrazoles fused with 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline, 2,3-dihydro-1H-indene­, or 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene involves the formation of the tosylhydrazone from an aromatic substrate carrying aldehyde and acetylenic functionalities at appropriate positions, followed by base-promoted generation of the diazo compound and subsequent intramolecular 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition. A number of functional groups were found to be compatible for this reaction sequence and yields were moderate to very good (44–95%). A plausible reaction mechanism supported by DFT calculations has been provided to explain the formation of products.
4-Selective Pyridine Functionalization Reactions via Heterocyclic Phosphonium Salts
Authors: McNally Andrew , Dolewski Ryan , Hilton Michael
Published: December 2017

Pyridines are widely used across the chemical sciences in applications ranging from pharmaceuticals, ligands for metal complex and battery technologies. Direct functionalization of pyridine C–H bonds is an important strategy to make useful pyridine derivatives, but there are few ways to selectively transform the 4-position of the scaffold. We recently reported that pyridines can be converted into heterocyclic phosphonium salts that can serve as generic handles for multiple subsequent bond-forming processes. Reactions with nucleophiles and transition-metal cross-couplings will be described to make C–O, C–S, C–N, and C–C bonds in a diverse range of pyridines including those embedded in complex pharmaceuticals.

1 Introduction

2 Direct, Regioselective Functionalization of Pyridines

3 4-Position Selectivity via Metal Catalysis

4 Versatile Functional Groups versus Specific Bond Constructions

5 Phosphonium Salts as Reagents for Pyridine Functionalization

6 Conclusions
A Short Report on Single Stage Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement and Carotid Stenting
Authors: Gennari Marco , Trabattoni Piero , Bartorelli Antonio , Agrifoglio Marco
Published: December 2017

No consensus exists on the timing, safety, and efficacy of treating severe symptomatic aortic and carotid stenosis. In the older population and in the presence of multiple comorbidities that arise during the surgery, a less invasive transcatheter treatment may be the only reasonable option. We discuss this topic by analyzing a case of an 84-year-old man who underwent a combined single-stage transcatheter procedure.
Triple Coronary Artery Thrombosis Presenting as Acute Anterior ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Kahraman Serkan , Ucar Hakan , Ozyılmaz Sinem , Allahverdiyev Samir , Ermis Emrah
Published: December 2017

Simultaneous multivessel epicardial coronary artery thrombosis is an uncommon finding in acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). It generally leads to cardiogenic shock and sudden cardiac death in the hospital. We report a 42-year-old male patient presenting with acute anterior STEMI with triple coronary artery thrombosis. An emergency coronary angiogram showed total occlusion of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) with thrombus formation. At the same time, thrombus formations were also seen in the circumflex artery (CXA), the second obtuse marginal (OM2) branch, and the distal right coronary artery (RCA). We unsuccessfully attempted thrombus aspiration of the LAD. Subsequently, we decided to stent the LAD, and a successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was performed for the LAD. In a second procedure, RCA thrombosis regressed with 24-hour tirofiban (glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor inhibitor) perfusion, although CXA thrombosis and OM thrombosis did not regress. Therefore, we performed stenting of the CXA and OM with a newer provisional technique called the flower petal technique. Thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grade III was seen after stenting. The patient was discharged from the hospital 5 days after PCI without any symptoms.
Neuartige Technik zur Präparation eines 3- oder 5-strängigen Hamstring-Transplantats für die individualisierte Single-Bundle-VKB- oder -HKB-Rekonstruktion
Authors: Rößler Philip , Schüttler Karl-Friedrich , Efe Turgay
Published: December 2017

Zielsetzung Entwicklung einer Präparationstechnik für Hamstring-Sehnen zur Gewährleistung maximaler intraoperativer Flexibilität im Rahmen der individualisierten Kreuzbandchirurgie.

Indikationen Primäre VKB- oder HKB-Rekonstruktion sowie deren Revisionsoperationen.

Methode Drei- oder 5-strängige Transplantate können mithilfe der Semitendinosus- und Gracilissehne unter zusätzlicher Verstärkung durch Fiber Tape sowie mit einem konventionellen femoralen Aufhängungssystem präpariert werden. Fiber Tape und Knotentechnik erlauben eine freie Beweglichkeit der Schlaufe des Aufhängungssystems. Die Technik bietet durch ihre Einfachheit höchstmögliche intraoperative Skalierbarkeit.
Die subtalare Schraubenarthrorise zur Behandlung des symptomatischen, flexiblen Pes planovalgus – Ergebnisse und eine aktuelle Literaturübersicht
Authors: Arbab Dariusch , Frank Daniel , Bouillon Bertil , Lüring Christian , Wingenfeld Carsten , Abbara-Czardybon Mona
Published: December 2017

Hintergrund Die subtalare Schraubenarthrorise zur Behandlung des symptomatischen flexiblen Pes planovalgus erfreut sich zunehmender Beliebtheit. Die vorliegende retrospektive Arbeit stellt klinische und radiologische Ergebnisse nach minimalinvasiver Talus-Stopp-Operation dar.

Material und Methoden In der vorliegenden Arbeit konnten 73 Füße von 41 Kindern retrospektiv untersucht werden, die im Zeitraum zwischen 2002 und 2011 mittels subtalarer Schraubenarthrorise operiert wurden. Das durchschnittliche Alter lag zwischen 9 und 14 Jahren (Durchschnitt 11,8 Jahre). Die radiologische Untersuchung umfasste neben der Erhebung des Kalkaneus-Boden-Winkels und des Talusneigungswinkels die Bestimmung des Talus-Metatarsale-I-Winkels nach Meary und des Kalkaneus-Metatarsale-I-Winkels nach Costa-Bartani sowie die Bestimmung des TMT-Indexes.

Ergebnisse 95% der Patient waren mit dem postoperativen Ergebnis hinsichtlich Stellung des Fußes, Beschwerden und Aktivitätsniveau zufrieden oder sehr zufrieden. 95% der Beteiligten berichteten über keine Einschränkungen ihrer Alltagsaktivitäten oder sportlichen Betätigungen. Radiologisch verbesserten sich alle gemessenen Winkel signifikant, ausgenommen die Talusneigung. Es wurden keine Schraubendislokationen oder Schraubenbrüche festgestellt. Zwei Kinder (2,6%) klagten initial über peroneale Spasmen, ein Patient (1,3%) berichtete über wiederholte Distorsionen aufgrund einer Überkorrektur. Bei einem Kind (1,3%) trat eine Wundheilungsstörung auf.

Schlussfolgerung Die Talus-Stopp-Operation stellt eine sichere und effektive Behandlungsoption des symptomatischen, flexiblen Pes planovalgus bei Kindern und Jugendlichen dar. Die postoperativen Ergebnisse sind sehr zufriedenstellend und gehen mit einer schnellen Rekonvaleszenz einher. Die Rate schwerer Komplikationen ist gering. Die Berücksichtigung beider radiologischer Ebenen und Bestimmung des TMT-Indexes erscheint sinnvoll, um eine genaue Beurteilung der mehrdimensionalen Fehlstellungen prä- und postoperativ zu ermöglichen.
Inter-Rater Reliability of Air/Saline HyCoSy, HyFoSy and HyFoSy Combined With Power Doppler for Screening Tubal Patency
Authors: Ludwin Inga , Ludwin Artur , Nastri Carolina , Coelho Neto Marcela , Kottner Jan , Martins Wellington
Published: December 2017

Purpose To estimate the inter-observer reliability and agreement of offline analyses of three different ultrasound techniques for assessing tubal patency.

Methods 100 tubes (n = 100) in 50 women were evaluated for tubal patency between November 2013 and July 2015 using ultrasound as index tests and laparoscopy as the reference standard. Three different ultrasound techniques were applied: two-dimensional grayscale ultrasound using air + saline as the contrast media (2D-HyCoSy); two- and three-dimensional grayscale ultrasound using foam as the contrast media (2 D/3D-HyFoSy); and the same technique but adding bi-directional power Doppler (2 D/3D-Doppler-HyFoSy). The videos containing full standardized exams using these three techniques were split into three parts, anonymized, encoded, randomized and reassessed in Nov. 2015 by two observers who assessed tubal patency using standardized criteria. These observers were blinded to any clinical information and each other’s results. Proportions of observed agreement (po) and Cohen's Kappa (κ) including the 95 % confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

Results The inter-observer reliability/agreement in 2 D/3D-Doppler-HyFoSy (po = 0.99, κ = 0.95, 95 % CI: 0.93 – 0.97) was higher compared to 2D-air/saline-HyCoSy (po = 0.83, κ = 0.55, 95 % CI: 0.40 – 0.68) and 2 D/3D-HyFoSy (po = 0.92, κ = 0.67, 95 % CI: 0.54 – 0.76).

Conclusion The inter-observer reliability and agreement of the diagnosis of tubal patency evaluating stored videos are improved when foam and power Doppler are used during acquisition. Therefore, this technique may be preferred to minimize misclassification and misdiagnosis.
Die Frage nach Zusammenhängen in multivariaten Datensätzen zur Behandlung der nvAMD
Authors: Wilke Robert , Finger Robert , Sachs Helmut
Published: December 2017

Hintergrund Die statistische Beurteilung klinischer Fallserien ist nicht ohne Schwierigkeiten. Scheinkorrelationen können bei der Analyse entstehen, wenn der Zusammenhang zwischen nur einer einzelnen Einflussgröße und der Zielgröße untersucht wird. Häufig ist dies der Fall, wenn sogenannte konfundierende Variablen (d. h. weitere Variablen, welche das Ergebnis beeinflussen) nicht berücksichtigt werden. In prospektiven Studien werden diese Variablen entweder so weit als möglich kontrolliert, oder sie werden durch Randomisierung zwischen den Gruppen ausgeglichen. In retrospektiven Auswertungen kann diese Technik nicht angewendet werden. Stattdessen sollte eine multivariate Analyse durchgeführt werden, die alle bekannten und dokumentierten Variablen berücksichtigt.

Patienten/Material und Methoden Statistische Evaluation der Einflussgrößen auf das Visusergebnis am Ende des 2. Jahres einer Anti-VEGF-Therapie an einem Datensatz aus 1300 nvAMD-Fällen (nvAMD: neovaskuläre altersabhängige Makuladegeneration). Die folgenden Einflussgrößen (Variablen) wurden untersucht: Ausgangsvisus, Netzhautdicke zur Baseline, Alter bei Baseline, mittleres Visitenintervall, Anzahl an Injektionen, Visusgewinn nach dem Upload sowie ein Wechsel des Anti-VEGF-Präparats. Zielgröße war der Gewinn oder Verlust der Sehschärfe als Letter Score am Ende des 2. Jahres.

Ergebnisse Alle untersuchten Variablen haben einen deutlichen Einfluss auf das Visusergebnis, sofern nur einzelne Regressionen untersucht werden. Eine initiale Analyse des Einflusses einer Therapieumstellung zeigt einen scheinbar großen Einfluss auf den Visusverlauf. Die multivariate Analyse zur Vermeidung von Scheinkorrelationen zeigt jedoch, dass nur die folgenden Variablen das Visusergebnis statistisch signifikant beeinflusst haben: Ausgangsvisus, Visusgewinn nach dem Upload, Anzahl an Injektionen, Visitenintervall sowie Netzhautdicke zur Baseline. Die Therapieumstellung selbst hat keinen statistisch signifikanten Einfluss auf das Visusergebnis.

Schlussfolgerungen Die Umstellung der Anti-VEGF-Therapie ist nicht ursächlich für einen besseren Visusverlauf. Bei der statistischen Analyse von nicht randomisierten, retrospektiven Daten ist es besonders wichtig, konfundierende Variablen zu berücksichtigen. Sind die untersuchten Subgruppen nicht für diese Variablen ausgeglichen, können Scheinkorrelationen entstehen, die nicht die tatsächlichen Zusammenhänge abbilden.
Behandlung gynäkologischer Erkrankungen mit anthroposophischer Medizin
Authors: Stammer Gabriela
Published: December 2017

Die anthroposophische Medizin nimmt den Menschen mit Leib, Seele und in seiner Individualität war. Das Zentrum der therapeutischen Beziehung und Diagnosestellung bildet das ärztliche Gespräch. Zur Behandlung stehen anthroposophische Medikamente und Heilmittel wie rhythmische Massagen oder Öl-Dispersionsbäder zur Verfügung. Diese Mittel kommen auch bei gynäkologischen Erkrankungen zum Einsatz. Im Bereich der Frauenheilkunde werden viele Beschwerden in der Schulmedizin mit Schmerzmitteln oder Antibiotika behandelt. Dieser Artikel zeigt Fallbeispiele aus der Praxis, bei denen die Patientinnen erfolgreich mit Mitteln der anthroposophischen Medizin behandelt wurden.
Die Bedeutung der Mikrobiota in der Infektionsprophylaxe und -behandlung
Authors: Rüffer Andreas , Eckert Michaela , Krause Diana , Lurz Katja , Niebling Martina , Teibert Adrienn
Published: December 2017

Unsere körpereigene Mikrobiota trägt in Form der Kolonisationsresistenz entscheidend zum direkten Schutz vor Infektionen bei. Darüber hinaus hat insbesondere die Darmmikrobiota großen Einfluss auf die Funktionsfähigkeit der Immunabwehr. Entsprechend weitreichend sind die Folgen von Störungen dieses Barrieresystems. Stuhluntersuchungen bieten dann die Möglichkeit einer mikroökologischen Status-quo-Erfassung sowie die Basis für gezielte pro- und präbiotische Therapien auch im Sinne einer Infektprävention bzw. -behandlung.
Grüne Antibiotika für eine grüne Zukunft?
Authors: Stange Rainer
Published: December 2017

Nach den großen Erfolgen der Antibiotikaära werden in den letzten Jahren v.a. deren Probleme – die zunehmenden Antibiotikaresistenzen – hervorgehoben. Allerdings existieren bislang nur wenig praktikable Rezepte, mit denen man für die wichtigsten klinischen Situationen das Ziel erreichen könnte, Antibiotika nicht zu verordnen.

Für die unkomplizierte Zystitis und Atemwegsinfekte existieren wirksame Alternativen aus der Phytotherapie, die auf Basis der Studienlage im Beitrag zusammengefasst werden. Aus der Fülle der phytotherapeutischen Möglichkeiten wurden einige wichtige herausgegriffen. Auf Phytotherapeutika wie Knoblauch oder Ätherischöldrogen wird nicht näher eingegangen, da über beide bereits zahlreiche Publikationen vorliegen.
Symmetric/asymmetric separation transition in a supersonic combustor with single-side expansion
Authors: Gao Tianyun , Liang Jianhan , Sun Mingbo
Published: December 2017

Shock wave induced separation in a canonical supersonic combustor is studied through numerical simulation and experiment. Cold flow analysis is implemented to obtain the dynamic features of the symmetric/asymmetric separation transition process. Experiments have been carried out in a single-expanding duct with backpressure produced by a cylinder at Mach number 3. Detached-eddy simulation represents the whole process of the separated region development. Typical simulated transient flow phases are validated by the nano-based planar laser scattering images. The results of the computational study show reasonable agreement with experiments, although the movement of simulated separation shock is slightly faster. It is found that a complex transitional separation occurs when the backpressure is near the threshold. During the dynamic process, the symmetric/asymmetric separation transition is bidirectional. A mechanism for the separation transition is identified based on boundary layer analysis. Results show that the key factor of the separation transition is the velocity/momentum profile fullness (shape factor) distribution of the boundary layers from both walls. An interlaced shape factor distribution means that the separation tendency of two turbulent boundary layers exchanges, which accounts for the switch of separation modes. A lag exists between the boundary layer transformation and the separation transition. A large amplitude, broadband low-frequency shock oscillation exists in the transitional flowfield, which has a relationship with low-frequency unsteadiness in traditional shockwave boundary-layer interaction problems. Future effort is required in discovering the mechanism of low-frequency unsteadiness in complex separation cases.
Resistive switching effect of N-doped MoS2-PVP nanocomposites films for nonvolatile memory devices
Authors: Wu Zijin , Wang Tongtong , Sun Changqi , Liu Peitao , Xia Baorui , Zhang Jingyan , Liu Yonggang , Gao Daqiang
Published: December 2017

Resistive memory technology is very promising in the field of semiconductor memory devices. According to Liu et al, MoS2-PVP nanocomposite can be used as an active layer material for resistive memory devices due to its bipolar resistive switching behavior. Recent studies have also indicated that the doping of N element can reduce the band gap of MoS2 nanosheets, which is conducive to improving the conductivity of the material. Therefore, in this paper, we prepared N-doped MoS2 nanosheets and then fabricated N-doped MoS2-PVP nanocomposite films by spin coating. Finally, the resistive memory [C. Tan et al., Chem. Soc. Rev. 44, 2615 (2015)], device with ITO/N-doped MoS2-PVP/Pt structure was fabricated. Study on the I-V characteristics shows that the device has excellent resistance switching effect. It is worth mentioning that our device possesses a threshold voltage of 0.75 V, which is much better than 3.5 V reported previously for the undoped counterparts. The above research shows that N-doped MoS2-PVP nanocomposite films can be used as the active layer of resistive switching memory devices, and will make the devices have better performance.
Dust lattice waves in Debye binary dust chain
Authors: He Kerong , Chen Hui , Liu Sanqiu
Published: December 2017

The dust lattice waves in a one-dimensional Debye binary dust chain consisting of two distinct dust particle species with different charges and masses are investigated. It is found that there are two branches for both longitudinal and transverse modes, namely the optical mode of high frequency and the acoustic mode of low frequency, which will be merged into one ordinary longitudinal (transverse) mode of single dust chain. The influence of the parameters, i.e., the dimensionless lattice parameter α, the mass ratio σ, and the charge ratio ε of the two particles, on the dispersion relation of longitudinal and transverse waves is discussed. Furthermore, the branching and the merging of longitudinal and transverse waves are discussed in detail.
Influence of cathode emission uniformity on microwave generation in relativistic backward wave oscillator
Authors: Wu Ping , Sun Jun , Teng Yan
Published: December 2017

The emission uniformity of explosive emission cathodes is important to the operation of high power microwave generators. Although this concept seems to be widely accepted, the concrete influence of cathode emission uniformity on microwave generation has not been researched in detail and many conclusions on this matter are ambiguous due to the lack of solid evidence. This paper makes an effort to research this issue with particle-in-cell simulations about an X-band relativistic backward wave oscillator. To keep the diode impedance unchanged, an emission model in which each emission cell is artificially assigned a specific current density is adopted. The emission non-uniformity is simulated in three ways: spaced emission, large-area no-emission, and local enhanced emission. The simulation results uncover three phenomena: first, no significant influence is found for the cathode emission uniformity on the microwave starting time as long as no obvious mode competition is excited by emission non-uniformity; second, bad emission uniformity may bring about reduction of microwave power, but this may not happen when the emission non-uniformity is just localized to a few discrete strong emission points; third, under specific circumstances, the emission non-uniformity may lead to the excitation of mode competition, which can significantly delay the starting time and lower the microwave power.
A structural–electrical property correlation in A-site double substituted lanthanum aluminate
Authors: Verma Onkar Nath , Jha Pardeep K. , Singh Prabhakar
Published: December 2017

The systematic study on structural properties of Ba-substituted La0.9Sr0.1Al0.9Mg0.1O3–δ and its correlation with conductivity was carried out. X-ray diffraction patterns indicated that the system formed a single phase composition up to 3% of Ba double substitution at the La-site. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and XPS results confirmed elemental compositions and revealed the maximum deficiency in oxygen for the 3% Ba-substituted sample. Dense grain formation is observed in SEM images, complementing higher density of these samples (>93%). Electrical conductivity was found to be in correlation with a new structural parameter of the critical triangle of (La/Sr/Ba)-Al/Mg-(La/Sr/Ba). The value of conductivity increased by an order of 2 in a substituted sample as compared to pure LaAlO3. The activation energy can be correlated with the area of the critical triangle of (La/Sr/Ba)-Al/Mg-(La/Sr/Ba). The migration path for ionic conduction of the oxygen ion was mapped out using the correlation of bulk conductivity with the A-A-B angle (β) and dc conductivity with the A-B-A angle (α).
Low threading dislocation density GaAs growth on on-axis GaP/Si (001)
Authors: Jung Daehwan , Callahan Patrick G. , Shin Bongki , Mukherjee Kunal , Gossard Arthur C. , Bowers John E.
Published: December 2017

We report a systematic study of high quality GaAs growths on on-axis (001) GaP/Si substrates using molecular beam epitaxy. Various types of dislocation filter layers and growth temperatures of initial GaAs layer were investigated to reduce the threading dislocation densities in GaAs on GaP/Si. Electron channeling contrast imaging techniques revealed that an optimized GaAs buffer layer with thermal cycle annealing and InGaAs/GaAs dislocation filter layers has a threading dislocation density of 7.2 × 106 cm−2, which is a factor of 40 lower than an unoptimized GaAs buffer. The root-mean-square surface roughness was greatly decreased from 7.8 nm to 2.9 nm after the optimization process. A strong enhancement in photoluminescence intensity indicates that the optimized GaAs template grown on on-axis (001) GaP/Si substrates is a promising virtual substrate for Si-based optoelectronic devices.
Effects of cation ordering on the elastic and electronic properties of Mg-Fe silicate phases at high pressures
Authors: Das Pratik Kr. , Mandal Nibir , Arya A.
Published: December 2017

Olivine [(Mg, Fe)2SiO4] and pyroxene [(Mg, Fe)Si2O6] are naturally occurring silicate phases. Both the phases crystallize with orthorhombic symmetry, displaying ordering of Mg2+ and Fe2+ in their non-equivalent octahedral lattice sites (M1, M2). We address two major issues: (1) how far an inversion of the cation ordering: type I (Mg2+ in M1; Fe2+ in M2) to type II (Mg2+ in M2; Fe2+in M1) can modify their elastic properties and (2) what are the effects of this inversion on their electronic properties? Using density functional theory, we calculate the elastic constant tensors (Cij) as a function of hydrostatic pressure for types I and II ordering. Our calculations suggest that the inversion (types I to II) in olivine significantly reduces the shear elastic constant C55 (∼25%). This has little effect on the Cij of pyroxene in ambient condition, but the effects become strong at elevated pressures (100 GPa), resulting in large variations (>40%) of all the shear elastic constants: C44, C55, and C66. We predict contrasting variations in compressional (VP) and shear (VS) wave velocities by 1% and 9% and by 2% and 11% for olivine and pyroxene, respectively, on types I to II switchover. Our Debye temperature (θD) calculations show that θD of olivine is less sensitive to ordering inversion, whereas that of pyroxene varies substantially (∼22%) under ambient condition. We evaluate the electronic DOS of pyroxene, and obtain a large difference in the magnetic moment between types I and II.
Photoresponse in La0.9Hf0.1MnO3/0.05wt%Nb-doped SrTiO3 heteroepitaxial junctions
Authors: Qi Yaping , Ni Hao , Zheng Ming , Zeng Jiali , Jiang Yucheng , Gao Ju
Published: December 2017

Excellent photo detectors need to have the rapid response and good repeatability from the requirement of industrial applications. In this paper, transport behavior and opto-response of heterostructures made with La0.9Hf0.1MnO3 and 0.05wt%Nb-doped SrTiO3 were investigated. The heterojunctions exhibited an excellent rectifying feature with very low leakage in a broad temperature region (from 40 to 300 K). These thin films presented persistent and stable photovoltages upon light illumination. Rapid shift between small and large voltages corresponding to “light OFF” and “light ON” states, respectively, was observed, demonstrating reliable photo detection behavior. A semiconductor laser with a wavelength of 650 nm was used as the light source. It is also noted that the observed photovoltages are strongly determined by light intensity. The injection of photoexcited charge carriers (electrons) could be responsible for the appearance of the observed opto-response. Such manipulative features by light irradiation exhibit great potential for light detectors for visible light.
Acoustics of finite asymmetric exotic beams: Examples of Airy and fractional Bessel beams
Authors: Mitri F. G.
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this investigation is to examine the properties of finite asymmetric exotic scalar (acoustic) beams with unusual properties using the angular spectrum decomposition in plane waves. Such beams possess intrinsic uncommon characteristics that make them attractive from the standpoint of particle manipulation, handling and rotation, and possibly other applications in particle clearing and separation. Assuming a specific apodization function at the acoustic source, the angular spectrum function is calculated and used to synthesize the radiated pressure field (i.e., excluding evanescent waves that decay away from the source) in the forward direction of wave motion (i.e., away from the source). Moreover, a generalized hybrid method combining the angular spectrum approach with the multipole expansion formalism in spherical coordinates is developed, which is applicable to any finite beam of arbitrary wavefront. The improved approach allows adequate computation of the resonance scattering, radiation force, and spin torque components on an object of arbitrary shape, located on or off the axis of the incident beam in space. Considering the illustrative example of a viscous fluid sphere submerged in a non-viscous liquid and illuminated by finite asymmetric beams such as the Airy and the Bessel vortex beam with fractional order, numerical computations for the scattering, radiation force, and torque components are performed with an emphasis on the distance from the source, the arbitrary location of the particle ,and the asymmetric nature of the incident field. Moreover, beamforming calculations are presented with supplementary animations for the pressure field distribution in space, with an emphasis on the intrinsic properties of the selected beams. The numerical predictions illustrate the scattering, radiation force, and spin torque properties depending on the beam parameters and the distance separating the sphere from the source. This study provides a generalized hybrid method to analyze quantitatively the scattering, radiation force, and spin torque by any finite asymmetric (or symmetric) acoustic beam with potential applications in various fields of applied physics (such as beam-forming, imaging, and mechanical effects of asymmetric sound beams).
Sideband pump-probe technique resolves nonlinear modulation response of PbS/CdS quantum dots on a silicon nitride waveguide
Authors: Kolarczik Mirco , Ulbrich Christian , Geiregat Pieter , Zhu Yunpeng , Sagar Laxmi Kishore , Singh Akshay , Herzog Bastian , Achtstein Alexander W. , Li Xiaoqin , van Thourhout Dries , Hens Zeger , Owschimikow Nina , Woggon Ulrike
Published: December 2017

For possible applications of colloidal nanocrystals in optoelectronics and nanophotonics, it is of high interest to study their response at low excitation intensity with high repetition rates, as switching energies in the pJ/bit to sub-pJ/bit range are targeted. We develop a sensitive pump-probe method to study the carrier dynamics in colloidal PbS/CdS quantum dots deposited on a silicon nitride waveguide after excitation by laser pulses with an average energy of few pJ/pulse. We combine an amplitude modulation of the pump pulse with phase-sensitive heterodyne detection. This approach permits to use co-linearly propagating co-polarized pulses. The method allows resolving transmission changes of the order of 10−5 and phase changes of arcseconds. We find a modulation on a sub-nanosecond time scale caused by Auger processes and biexciton decay in the quantum dots. With ground state lifetimes exceeding 1 μs, these processes become important for possible realizations of opto-electronic switching and modulation based on colloidal quantum dots emitting in the telecommunication wavelength regime.
Beating maps of singlet fission: Simulation of coherent two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy by Davydov ansatz in organic molecules
Authors: Sun Ke-Wei , Yao Yao
Published: December 2017

The coherent two-dimensional (2D) electronic spectra for both the intra- and inter-molecular singlet fission (SF) processes in organic molecules are simulated by the Davydov ansatz combined with the Frenkel-Dirac time-dependent variational algorithm. By virtue of the dynamical approach, we are able to identify the signals of triplet excitation in the excited-state absorption contribution of the 2D spectra. In order to discuss whether a mediative charge-transfer (CT) state is necessary to SF, we increase the CT-state energy and find, in a theoretical manner, that the beating signal related to the triplet is inhibited. The vibronic coherence is then studied in the beating maps for both the ground and excited states. Except for the normal beating modes adhering to the relevant electronic state, we observe signals that are explicitly related to the triplet excitations. The pathways of transition corresponding to these signals are clarified in the respective Feynman diagram, which can help the experimenters determine the physical origin of relevant measurements.
Polycrystalline Terfenol-D thin films grown at CMOS compatible temperature
Authors: Panduranga Mohanchandra K. , Lee Taehwan , Chavez Andres , Prikhodko Sergey V. , Carman Gregory P.
Published: December 2017

Terfenol-D thin films have the largest magnetoelastic coefficient at room temperature of any material system and thus are ideal for voltage induced strain multiferroics. However, Terfenol-D requires 500 0C processing temperature which prohibits its use in CMOS devices where processing temperatures must be below 450 0C. In this paper, we describe a deposition process that produces quality Terfenol-D film with processing temperature below 450 0C. These films have extremely smooth surfaces (Ra∼1nm) with excellent magnetoelastic properties (λs=880 microstrain) similar to its bulk polycrystalline counterpart. The films are produced by DC magnetron sputtering and deposited on heated substrates at 250 0C and post annealed at either 250 0C, 400 0C or 450 0C. Among these films only the film annealed at 450 0C produces crystalline Terfenol-D with a face centered cubic crystal structure and saturation magnetization of ∼700 emu/cc. MOKE Magnetic hysteresis loops measured with four point bending fixture show compressive strain dramatically alter the coercive field from 2300 Oe to 1600 Oe.