bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tuneable dielectric and optical characteristics of tailor-made inorganic electro-chromic materials
Authors: Bulja S. , Kopf R. , Nolan K. , Lundy R. , Tate A. , Hu T. C. , Norooziarab M. , Cahill R. , Templ W. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractElectro-chromic materials (EC) are a new class of electronically reconfigurable thin films that have the ability to reversibly change optical properties by electric charge insertion/extraction. Since their discovery by Deb, they have been employed in applications related to display technology, such as smart windows and mirrors and active optical filters. In this sense, a variety of studies related to the tuneable optical characteristics of EC materials have recently been reported, however, their microwave tuneable dielectric characteristics have been left somewhat unexplored. In 2016 Bulja showed that dc bias voltage induced modulation of the optical characteristics of an inorganic Conductor/WO3/LiNbO3/NiO/Conductor EC cell isaccompanied by the modulation of its high frequency (1–20 GHz) dielectric characteristics. In general, according to the state of the art, cells of different material compositions are needed to produce devices of tailor made characteristics. Here, we report the discovery that the microwave dielectric and the optical characteristics of an EC cell can be engineered to suit a variety of applications without changing their material composition. The obtained results indicate the potential for producing novel, tuneable and tailor-engineered materials that can be used to create next generation agile microwave-optical devices.
Effect of laser surface remelting on the microstructure and properties of Al-Al2Cu-Si ternary eutectic alloy
Authors: Ramakrishnan Bhupendera Prashanth , Lei Qian , Misra Amit , Mazumder Jyoti 
Published: October 2017

AbstractBimodal ultrafine eutectic composites (BUECs) exhibit a good combination of strength and plasticity owing to a dual-hierarchy in eutectic length-scales in the microstructure. The present study investigates the variation of phase, morphology, feature length-scales and modality of microstructures obtained in a Al81Cu13Si6 (at. %) ternary alloy after laser surface remelting. A novel approach of varying component bimodal eutectic volume fractions by controlling the cooling rate of the laser solidification process has been presented. The volume fraction of the fine eutectic matrix has a profound effect on the flow strength. Laser remelted microstructures with volume fractions of the fine eutectic varying from 25 to 40% exhibiting compressive flow strengths ranging from 500 to 900 MPa have been obtained. The volume fraction of the fine eutectic decreased with cooling rate and completely ceased to exist at cooling rates greater than $$4\times {10}^{4}\,^\circ {\rm{C}}/{\rm{s}}$$
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Skin transcriptome reveals the intrinsic molecular mechanisms underlying hair follicle cycling in Cashmere goats under natural and shortened photoperiod conditions
Authors: Yang Min , Song Shen , Dong Kunzhe , Chen XiaoFei , Liu Xuexue , Rouzi Marhaba , Zhao Qianjun , He Xiaohong , Pu Yabin , Guan Weijun , Ma Yuehui , Jiang Lin 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThe growth of cashmere exhibits a seasonal pattern arising from photoperiod change. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. We profiled the skin transcriptome of six goats at seven time points during hair follicle cycling via RNA-seq. The six goats comprised three goats exposed to a natural photoperiod and three exposed to a shortened photoperiod. During hair cycle transition, 1713 genes showed differential expression, and 332 genes showed a pattern of periodic expression. Moreover, a short photoperiod induced the hair follicle to enter anagen early, and 246 genes overlapped with the periodic genes. Among these key genes, cold-shock domain containing C2 (CSDC2) was highly expressed in the epidermis and dermis of Cashmere goat skin, although its function in hair-follicle development remains unknown. CSDC2 silencing in mouse fibroblasts resulted in the decreased mRNA expression of two key hair-follicle factors, leading to reduced cell numbers and a lower cell density. Cashmere growth or molting might be controlled by a set of periodic regulatory genes. The appropriate management of short light exposure can induce hair follicles to enter full anagen early through the activation of these regulators. The CSDC2 gene is a potentially important transcription factor in the hair growth cycle.
microRNA-181b is increased in cystic fibrosis cells and impairs lipoxin A4 receptor-dependent mechanisms of inflammation resolution and antimicrobial defense
Authors: Pierdomenico Anna Maria , Patruno Sara , Codagnone Marilina , Simiele Felice , Mari Veronica Cecilia , Plebani Roberto , Recchiuti Antonio , Romano Mario 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThe involvement of microRNA (miR) in cystic fibrosis (CF) pathobiology is rapidly emerging. We previously documented that miR-181b controls the expression of the ALX/FPR2 receptor, which is recognized by the endogenous proresolution ligand, lipoxin (LX)A4. Here, we examined whether the miR-181b-ALX/FPR2 circuit was altered in CF. We examined human airways epithelial cells, normal (16HBE14o-), carrying the ΔF508 mutation (CFBE41o-) or corrected for this mutation (CFBE41o-/CEP-CFTR wt 6.2 kb), as well as monocyte-derived macrophages (MΦs) from CF patients. CFBE41o- cells exhibited higher miR-181b and reduced ALX/FPR2 levels compared to 16HBE14o- and CFBE41o-/CEP-CFTR wt 6.2 kb cells. An anti-mir-181b significantly enhanced ALX/FPR2 expression (+ 60%) as well as LXA4-induced increase in transepithelial electric resistance (+ 25%) in CFBE41o- cells. MΦs from CF patients also displayed increased miR-181b (+ 100%) and lower ALX/FPR2 levels (− 20%) compared to healthy cells. An anti-mir-181b enhanced ALX/FPR2 expression (+ 40%) and normalized receptor-dependent LXA4-induced phagocytosis of fluorescent-labeled zymosan particles as well as ofPseudomonas aeruginosaby CF-MΦs. These results provide the first evidence that miR-181b is overexpressed in CF cells, impairing some mechanisms of the ALX/FPR2-dependent pathway of inflammation resolution. Thus, targeting miR-181b may represent a strategy to enhance anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial defense mechanisms in CF.
A Skeletal Muscle Model of Infantile-onset Pompe Disease with Patient-specific iPS Cells
Authors: Yoshida Takeshi , Awaya Tomonari , Jonouchi Tatsuya , Kimura Ryo , Kimura Shigemi , Era Takumi , Heike Toshio , Sakurai Hidetoshi 
Published: October 2017

AbstractPompe disease is caused by an inborn defect of lysosomal acid α-glucosidase (GAA) and is characterized by lysosomal glycogen accumulation primarily in the skeletal muscle and heart. Patients with the severe type of the disease, infantile-onset Pompe disease (IOPD), show generalized muscle weakness and heart failure in early infancy. They cannot survive over two years. Enzyme replacement therapy with recombinant human GAA (rhGAA) improves the survival rate, but its effect on skeletal muscle is insufficient compared to other organs. Moreover, the patho-mechanism of skeletal muscle damage in IOPD is still unclear. Here we generated induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from patients with IOPD and differentiated them into myocytes. Differentiated myocytes showed lysosomal glycogen accumulation, which was dose-dependently rescued by rhGAA. We further demonstrated that mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) activity was impaired in IOPD iPSC-derived myocytes. Comprehensive metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses suggested the disturbance of mTORC1-related signaling, including deteriorated energy status and suppressed mitochondrial oxidative function. In summary, we successfully established an in vitro skeletal muscle model of IOPD using patient-specific iPSCs. Disturbed mTORC1 signaling may contribute to the pathogenesis of skeletal muscle damage in IOPD, and may be a potential therapeutic target for Pompe disease.
Wax Ester Synthase/Diacylglycerol Acyltransferase Isoenzymes Play a Pivotal Role in Wax Ester Biosynthesis in Euglena gracilis
Authors: Tomiyama Takuya , Kurihara Kaeko , Ogawa Takahisa , Maruta Takanori , Ogawa Takumi , Ohta Daisaku , Sawa Yoshihiro , Ishikawa Takahiro 
Published: October 2017

AbstractWax ester fermentation is a unique energy gaining pathway for a unicellular phytoflagellated protozoan, Euglena gracilis, to survive under anaerobiosis. Wax esters produced in E. gracilis are composed of saturated fatty acids and alcohols, which are the major constituents of myristic acid and myristyl alcohol. Thus, wax esters can be promising alternative biofuels. Here, we report the identification and characterization of wax ester synthase/diacylglycerol acyltrasferase (WSD) isoenzymes as the terminal enzymes of wax ester production in E. gracilis. Among six possible Euglena WSD orthologs predicted by BLASTX search, gene expression analysis and in vivo evaluation for enzyme activity with yeast expressing individual recombinant WSDs indicated that two of them (EgWSD2 and EgWSD5) predominantly function as wax ester synthase. Furthermore, experiments with gene silencing demonstrated a pivotal role of both EgWSD2 and EgWSD5 in wax ester synthesis, as evidenced by remarkably reduced wax ester contents in EgWSD2/5-double knockdown E. gracilis cells treated with anaerobic conditions. Interestingly, the decreased ability to produce wax ester did not affect adaptation of E. gracilis to anaerobiosis. Lipid profile analysis suggested allocation of metabolites to other compounds including triacylglycerol instead of wax esters.
Update on Femoroacetabular Impingement: What Is New, and How Should We Assess It?
Authors: Pfirrmann Christian , Sutter Reto 
Published: October 2017

AbstractIt is almost 20 years since the concept of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) was introduced, and by now a large number of orthopaedic surgeons, sports physicians, and radiologists have implemented this concept in clinical practice, as is evident in the steady rise in the number of patients diagnosed and treated for FAI. However, this trend has been accompanied by some criticism and concerns about overdiagnosing FAI. Imaging continues to play a crucial part in the evaluation of patients with suspected FAI. This review looks at the current state of FAI: Which parts of the FAI concept have become widely accepted, which ideas have been abandoned, and how should we assess patients with suspected FAI today? Although cam- and pincer-type morphology remain two central pillars of the FAI concept, the important role of abnormal femoral torsion in the development of FAI has now been recognized. High-level sports activities during skeletal maturation have been proven to increase the risk of developing FAI.
Real-Life-Evidenz zur Therapie der neovaskulären altersabhängigen Makuladegeneration in Deutschland
Authors: Finger Robert , Wecker Thomas , Stahl Andreas , Grüb Matthias , Holz Frank , Sachs Helmut , Wilke Robert 
Published: October 2017

ZusammenfassungDie Therapie der neovaskulären altersabhängigen Makuladegeneration (nvAMD) mit Inhibitoren des vaskulären endothelialen Wachstumsfaktors hat sich seit Einführung in Deutschland deutlich verbessert. In verschiedenen Anwendungsbeobachtungen zum Einsatz von Ranibizumab und Aflibercept in Deutschland hat sich in den letzten Jahren – parallel zur steigenden Behandlungsfrequenz – ein verbesserter Funktionsgewinn am Ende des 1. Behandlungsjahrs gezeigt. Dies spiegelt sich z. T. auch in retrospektiven Fallserien wider. Mit längeren Verlaufszeiträumen, z. B. für eine Nachbeobachtung von mehr als 3 Jahren, stellt sich trotz des initialen Visusgewinns ein zunehmender Funktionsverlust ein, sodass langfristig nur der Ausgangsvisus gehalten werden konnte. Eine Therapieverzögerung ist vor allem im ländlichen Bereich und bei einer Betreuung an verschiedenen Einrichtungen (z. B. mehreren Praxen oder Praxis und Klinik) ein Problem. Erfreulicherweise weisen hier aktuellere Auswertungen auf eine positive Entwicklung hin. Therapieverzögerung wurde reduziert, Therapie- bzw. Injektionsfrequenz erhöht und Therapieergebnisse verbessert. Dieser Trend muss sich fortsetzen, damit optimale, unter Routinebedingungen zu erreichende Therapieergebnisse in Deutschland erzielt werden.
First results on the cluster galaxy population from the Subaru Hyper Suprime-Cam survey. II. Faint end color–magnitude diagrams and radial profiles of red and blue galaxies at 0.1 &lt; z &lt; 1.1
Authors: Nishizawa Atsushi J , Oguri Masamune , Oogi Taira , More Surhud , Nishimichi Takahiro , Nagashima Masahiro , Lin Yen-Ting , Mandelbaum Rachel , Takada Masahiro , Bahcall Neta , Coupon Jean , Huang Song , Jian Hung-Yu , Komiyama Yutaka , Leauthaud Alexie , Lin Lihwai , Miyatake Hironao , Miyazaki Satoshi , Tanaka Masayuki 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
We present a statistical study of the redshift evolution of the cluster galaxy population over a wide redshift range from 0.1 to 1.1, using ∼1900 optically-selected CAMIRA clusters from ∼232 deg2 of the Hyper Suprime-Cam (HSC) Wide S16A data. Our stacking technique with a statistical background subtraction reveals color–magnitude diagrams of red-sequence and blue cluster galaxies down to faint magnitudes of mz ∼ 24. We find that the linear relation of red-sequence galaxies in the color–magnitude diagram extends down to the faintest magnitudes we explore with a small intrinsic scatter σint(g − r) &lt; 0.1. The scatter does not evolve significantly with redshift. The stacked color–magnitude diagrams are used to define red and blue galaxies in clusters in order to study their radial number density profiles without resorting to photometric redshifts of individual galaxies. We find that red galaxies are significantly more concentrated toward cluster centers and blue galaxies dominate the outskirts of clusters. We explore the fraction of red galaxies in clusters as a function of redshift, and find that the red fraction decreases with increasing distances from cluster centers. The red fraction exhibits a moderate decrease with increasing redshift. The radial number density profiles of cluster member galaxies are also used to infer the location of the steepest slope in the three-dimensional galaxy density profiles. For a fixed threshold in richness, we find little redshift evolution in this location.
Mini-Scleral Lenses for Correction of Refractive Errors After Radial Keratotomy
Authors: Chu Hsiao-Sang , Wang I-Jong , Tseng Grace A. , Chen Wei-Li , Hou Yu-Chih , Hu Fung-Rong 
Published: October 2017

Objective:
To evaluate the factors affecting clinical outcomes of correcting cumulative refractive errors or irregular astigmatism after radial keratotomy (RK) using mini-scleral lenses.

Methods:
We retrospectively analyzed 36 eyes receiving mini-scleral lenses after RK from July 2011 to June 2016. Analyses included age, refractive errors, best spectacle–corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), best contact lens–corrected visual acuity (BCLCVA), topographic indices, RK treatment zone diameter (TZD), power difference (PrD) within the RK treatment zone, and decentration distance (DD) of the RK treatment zone center. An increase of three lines or more of Snellen visual acuity was considered a successful fitting.

Results:
Of the eyes fitted with mini-scleral lenses, the BCLCVA (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR] 0.19±0.22) was significantly better than the BSCVA (logMAR 0.47±0.30). Twenty-three patients (64%) had a successful fitting. There was no statistically significant difference between successful and unsuccessful fittings with regard to age, prefitting refractive error, BSCVA, corneal astigmatism, simulated steep/flat K values, surface regularity index, TZD, or PrD. However, successful fittings had better centration of treatment zones with an average DD of 0.54±0.44 mm compared with a DD of 0.92±0.53 mm in the unsuccessfully fitted eyes. In addition, our case series showed that there was a negative impact on fitting outcomes in the presence of small central clear zones resulting from central incisions or scars.

Conclusions:
Although decentration of the RK treatment zone and small central clear zones were related to less optimal fitting results, mini-scleral lenses are a feasible option to correct cumulative refractive errors and irregular astigmatism in post-RK patients.
Utility of Mobile Communication Devices as a Tool to Improve Adherence to Antiretroviral Treatment in HIV-infected Children and Young Adults in Argentina
Authors: Stankievich Erica , Malanca Adriana , Foradori Irene , Ivalo Silvina , Losso Marcelo 
Published: October 2017

Background:
Optimal adherence is critical to achieve the benefits of antiretroviral treatment (ART). The aim of the study is to evaluate the use of mobile devices as a strategy to improve adherence to ART, measured by viral load (VL) in HIV+ patients less than 25 years of age.

Methods:
A prospective study was conducted in a cohort of HIV+ patients less than 25 years of age. HIV+ patients, on ART, VL >1000 copies/mL, using mobile devices and suboptimal adherence were included. The intervention was based on a mobile generic contact twice a month using text message and Facebook during 32 weeks. Extended communications were generated by the patient. VL was performed before and after the intervention.

Results:
Twenty-five patients were included. Three were excluded and 22 patients were enrolled. Mean age was 17.2 ± 6.1 years (range: 6–25); 15 (68%) were female; mean baseline VL was 25,100 copies/mL (range: 1020–500,000 copies/mL), mean log was 4.3 (range: 3–5.7 log). Each participant received a total of 16 contacts; 84% (296) were answered by the patient and 54% (189) of the contacts generated extended communications. After the strategy implementation, 20/22 VL results were available: 13/20 (65%) were undetectable, 14/20 (70%) had VL < 1000 copies/mL and 6/20 (30%) VLs had no changes.

Conclusions:
The use of mobile devices and social networks is a valid tool to improve ART adherence in HIV+ pediatric and young adults, evaluated through VL. The strategy is feasible. The reminder messages trigger additional communications between patients and health provider and better engagement with HIV care. Longer follow-up time is needed.
Proximal Radial Head Fractures in Young Gymnasts: A Case Series of Newly Described Overuse Injuries
Authors: Santelli Jaron , McCambridge Teri M. , Valasek Amy E. , Standiford Kathleen 
Published: October 2017

Abstract:
We report a case series of unilateral Salter-Harris IV fractures of the proximal radial heads in young female gymnasts. To date, there are no previous reports of such injuries in gymnastics. In all 3 athletes, no significant injury preceded presentation or diagnosis. Radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging showed fractures and associated bone marrow edema of the proximal radial head, respectively. All but 1 was treated nonoperatively with success. Given the lack of acute trauma, lack of large effusion, and good range of motion at presentation, these injuries are believed to be chronic in nature and related to overuse. This case series highlights the need for routine surveillance and the limiting of upper extremity weight bearing when possible in gymnasts.
Financial Performance of Hospitals in the Mississippi Delta Region Under the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program and Hospital Value-based Purchasing Program
Authors: Chen Hsueh-Fen , Karim Saleema , Wan Fei , Nevola Adrienne , Morris Michael E. , Bird T. Mac , Tilford J. Mick 
Published: October 2017

Background:
Previous studies showed that the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program (HRRP) and the Hospital Value-based Purchasing Program (HVBP) disproportionately penalized hospitals caring for the poor. The Mississippi Delta Region (Delta Region) is among the most socioeconomically disadvantaged areas in the United States. The financial performance of hospitals in the Delta Region under both HRRP and HVBP remains unclear.

Objective:
To compare the differences in financial performance under both HRRP and HVBP between hospitals in the Delta Region (Delta hospitals) and others in the nation (non-Delta hospitals).

Research Design:
We used a 7-year panel dataset and applied difference-in-difference models to examine operating and total margin between Delta and non-Delta hospitals in 3 time periods: preperiod (2008–2010); postperiod 1 (2011–2012); and postperiod 2 (2013–2014).

Results:
The Delta hospitals had a 0.89% and 4.24% reduction in operating margin in postperiods 1 and 2, respectively, whereas the non-Delta hospitals had 1.13% and 1% increases in operating margin in postperiods 1 and 2, respectively. The disparity in total margins also widened as Delta hospitals had a 1.98% increase in postperiod 1, but a 0.30% reduction in postperiod 2, whereas non-Delta hospitals had 1.27% and 2.28% increases in postperiods 1 and 2, respectively.

Conclusions:
The gap in financial performance between Delta and non-Delta hospitals widened following the implementation of HRRP and HVBP. Policy makers should modify these 2 programs to ensure that resources are not moved from the communities that need them most.
Priming With 1-Hz Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Over Contralesional Leg Motor Cortex Does Not Increase the Rate of Regaining Ambulation Within 3 Months of Stroke
Authors: Huang Ying-Zu , Lin Li-Fong , Chang Kwang-Hwa , Hu Chaur-Jong , Liou Tsan-Hon , Lin Yen-Nung 
Published: October 2017

Background
The potential benefits of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), applied either alone or as a combination treatment, on recovery of lower limbs after stroke have been insufficiently studied.

Objective
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of priming with 1-Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation over contralesional leg motor area with a double-cone coil before physical therapy on regaining ambulation.

Methods
Thirty-eight subacute stroke patients with significant leg disabilities were randomly assigned into the experimental group or control group to receive a 15-min real or sham 1-Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, respectively, over the contralesional motor cortex representing the quadriceps muscle followed by 45-min physical therapy for 15 sessions for 3 wks. Functional measures, motor evoked potentials, and quality of life were assessed.

Results
There was no significant difference between experimental group and control group regarding the recovery in ambulation, balance, motor functions, and activity of daily living. No significant difference was found in other functional measures and the quality of life. Only the control group displayed significantly increased cortical excitability of the contralesional hemisphere after the intervention.

Conclusions
The present study found that insufficient evidence that contralesional priming with 1-Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation improves ambulatory and other motor functions among patients with a severe leg dysfunction in subacute stroke.