bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leber Congenital Amaurosis: First Genotyped Hungarian Patients and Report of 2 Novel Mutations in the CRB1 and CEP290 Genes
Authors: Vámos Rita , Külm Maigi , Szabó Viktoria , Ahman Aune , Lesch Balázs , Schneider Miklós , Varsányi Balázs , Nagy Zoltán Zsolt , Németh János , Farkas Ágnes
Published: July 2015

Purpose

To introduce the first Hungarian patients with genetically defined Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and to report 2 novel mutations.

Methods

Seven otherwise healthy patients (4-29 years, 5 male and 2 female) who had an onset of severe visual impairment before age 2 years were investigated. The diagnosis was established in all individuals by medical history, funduscopy, and full-field electroretinogram (ERG). Ocular examination included visual acuity testing, digital fundus photography, and in 6 patients retinal imaging with optical coherence tomography (OCT). Arrayed primer extension microarray screening was performed in all probands. In 2 patients, further Sanger sequencing and targeted next-generation sequencing revealed the second disease allele.

Results

A cone-rod type LCA was revealed in 4 patients and a rod-cone type disease in 3 patients. Five patients presented with maculopathy. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging showed diffuse retinal thickening in 3 probands with severe macular atrophy in one. Full-field ERGs were undetectable or residual in all patients. Genetic screening revealed AIPL1, CRB1, and CEP290 gene-related pathology in 6 patients; in 1 proband, no mutation was found. Three homozygous and 3 compound heterozygous mutations were identified. Two novel variants were detected: c.2536G>T (p.G846X) in the CRB1 gene and c.4929delA (p.Lys1643fsX2) in the CEP290 gene.

Conclusions

Genetic subtypes identified are among the most common ones in LCA; the phenotypes are consistent with those reported previously. Both novel mutations are predicted to result in a premature translation termination. The phenotype related to the novel CRB1 mutation results in severe atrophic maculopathy.
Quantitative Assessment of Corneal Clarity in Keratoconus: A Case Control Study of Corneal Densitometry
Authors: Anayol Mustafa Alpaslan , Sekeroglu Mehmet Ali , Ceran Basak Bostanci , Dogan Mehmethan , Gunaydin Suleyman , Yilmazbas Pelin
Published: July 2015

Purpose

To evaluate corneal clarity quantitatively by corneal densitometry measurement in treatment-naive keratoconus patients and to compare these results with those of healthy control subjects.

Methods

Corneal densitometry measurement of consecutive treatment-naive keratoconus patients and healthy control subjects was performed by Scheimpflug corneal topography (Pentacam®HR). Corneal densitometry measurements were expressed in gray scale unit (GSU) and the data from the right eyes of subjects were used for statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 102 subjects (51 patients with keratoconus [27 male, 24 female] and 51 healthy control subjects [24 male, 27 female]) were included in the study. There was no statistically significant difference with regard to the mean age (p = 0.910) or distribution of sex (p = 0.552) between the groups. There were significant differences in corneal densitometry values of the groups in central 2 mm (17.95 ± 0.33 GSU in keratoconus and 16.43 ± 0.24 GSU in controls, p<0.001) and in annulus of 2 to 6 mm in diameter (15.88 ± 0.26 GSU in keratoconus and 15.02 ± 0.22 GSU in controls, p = 0.015). When considering the measurements in different depths, the anterior layer displayed the highest densitometry value compared to that of both the central and posterior layers. Corneal densitometry of anterior 0-2 mm was positively correlated with simulated K value (r = 0.446, p = 0.001), whereas it was negatively correlated with central corneal thickness (r = −0.361, p = 0.016) in keratoconus patients.

Conclusions

Treatment-naive keratoconus patients have significantly higher corneal densitometry values in central cornea when compared to healthy control subjects. The clinical relevance should be further studied in detail.
Eye Disorders in Children with Celiac Disease
Authors: Urganci Nafiye , Kalyoncu Derya
Published: July 2015

Purpose

To determine the prevalence of eye disorders in children with celiac disease (CD).

Methods

A total of 67 patients with CD aged from 1 to 16 years and 38 age- and sex-matched healthy children were screened for decreased visual acuity, cataract, uveitis, and diabetic retinopathy at diagnosis and during follow‐up.

Results

None of the patients had eye disorders at diagnosis. Only 2 of the patients had accommodative dysfunction and the others had no change in visual function during the follow-up. One of the controls had accommodative dysfunction.

Conclusions

No significant association was found between CD and eye disorders such as visual acuity, cataract, and uveitis among children.
Ophthalmic Manifestations in Recently Diagnosed Childhood Leukemia
Authors: Bitirgen Gulfidan , Belviranli Selman , Caliskan Umran , Tokgoz Huseyin , Ozkagnici Ahmet , Zengin Nazmi
Published: July 2015

Purpose

To determine the prevalence and the pattern of ocular involvement in children with leukemia at the time of diagnosis.

Methods

The data of patients with leukemia who underwent complete ophthalmic examination at the time of diagnosis between January 2005 and December 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, type of leukemia, ocular findings, blood parameters, and duration of follow-up were analyzed.

Results

A total of 185 patients (111 male and 74 female) were included in the study, with a median age of 6.0 years (range 0.5-18.0 years) and a median follow-up time of 36.0 months (range 0.5-108.0 months). Ocular signs were present in 24.3% of the patients at the time of diagnosis and 37.8% of them were symptomatic. The prevalence of ocular involvement was 20.4% in patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and 36.4% in patients with acute myelocytic leukemia (AML) (p = 0.051). Fatality rate was significantly higher in subjects with AML compared with ALL (p = 0.019), but was not significantly different between patients with and without ocular involvement (p = 0.166). There were no significant differences in hemoglobin levels, white blood cell counts, or platelet counts between patients with ALL and AML. Platelet counts were significantly lower in patients with ocular signs compared with subjects without ocular involvement (p = 0.012), while hemoglobin levels and white blood cell counts did not differ significantly.

Conclusions

Various ocular signs may be present at the time of diagnosis in childhood leukemia, even in patients without any symptoms. Routine ophthalmic examination should be performed in recently diagnosed children with leukemia.
An Unusual Case of Acute Glaucoma in Sturge-Weber Syndrome
Authors: Lambiase Alessandro , Mantelli Flavio , Mannino Giuseppe , Recupero Santi Maria
Published: July 2015

purpose

Sturge-Weber syndrome is a phakomatosis with involvement of the eyelids, conjunctiva, choroid, and retina. Congenital glaucoma is the most common ocular complication resulting from raised episcleral venous pressure. We present an unusual case of glaucoma induced by pupillary block in an 81-year-old woman with Sturge-Weber syndrome.

Methods

The patient was referred for acute loss of vision OD and right-sided headache, pain, and nausea. The visual acuity was light perception OD with an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 41 mm Hg. Slit-lamp examination showed diffuse corneal edema OD associated with pupillary occlusion leading to angle closure and acute glaucoma attack. No pathologic changes were evidenced in the left eye.

Results

The raised IOP was partly relieved following administration of intravenous acetazolamide 250 mg, accompanied by relief of both pain and nausea. Laser iridotomy was performed OD, reducing the IOP to 22 mm Hg. The patient underwent cataract surgery with pupil membrane removal, leading to IOP of 17 mm Hg, but visual acuity remains unchanged due to optic nerve atrophy.

Conclusions

This case supports the importance of involving an ophthalmologist in the management of Sturge-Weber syndrome, with monitoring of IOP, since early management of glaucoma can modify the visual outcome.
Twenty-Four-Hour Intraocular Pressure Monitoring in Normotensive Patients Undergoing Chronic Hemodialysis
Authors: Panagiotou Evangelia S. , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Giannopoulos Theodoros , Voudouragkaki Irini C. , Demirtzi Paraskevi , Paschalinou Eleni , Nikitidou Olga , Kapis Paraskevas V. , Konstas Anastasios G.P.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

To investigate 24-hour intraocular pressure (IOP) changes caused by hemodialysis (HD).

Methods

A prospective, observational, comparative 24-hour trial was performed on consecutive subjects with normal IOP undergoing maintenance HD 3 days a week between 13:00 and 17:00 hours in an academic setting. Following a comprehensive ocular assessment, those with conditions that may influence IOP were excluded and one eye was randomly selected. Twenty-four-hour IOP monitoring was performed on HD day 1 and then on a day without HD. The IOP was measured at 10:00, 13:00, 15:00, 17:00, 22:00, 02:00, and 06:00 employing Goldmann and Perkins tonometry on habitual position. During the course of 1 year, 18 patients completed the study.

Results

Monitoring of IOP on HD day showed a significantly higher mean 24-hour IOP (15.4 ± 2.7 vs 14.1 ± 2.2 mm Hg; p = 0.025), higher mean peak 24-hour IOP (18.5 ± 3.5 vs 15.8 ± 2.5 mm Hg; p = 0.003), and wider 24-hour IOP fluctuation (6.2 ± 2.3 vs 4.0 ± 1.9 mm Hg; p = 0.001). When individual time points were compared, IOP was significantly higher at 17:00 on HD day, reflecting a gradual IOP elevation during HD (p = 0.021). Further, during the HD procedure (13:00-17:00), the mean IOP was significantly higher on a HD day (16.4 ± 3.0 vs 14.7 ± 2.4 mm Hg; p = 0.004).

Conclusions

This prospective, before/after trial suggests that HD significantly impacts 24-hour IOP characteristics in normotensive eyes. The long-term significance of these findings requires further elucidation in normotensive patients and, predominantly, in patients with glaucoma undergoing HD.
Long-Term Analysis of IOL Stability of the Lewis Technique for Scleral Fixation
Authors: Cavallini Gian Maria , Volante Veronica , De Maria Michele , Torlai Giulio , Forlini Matteo , Chiesi Laura , Campi Luca , Cagini Carlo
Published: July 2015

Purpose

To demonstrate that in case of absence of capsular support intraocular lens (IOL) scleral fixation is both effective and stable over years.

Methods

A total of 13 eyes from 13 patients who underwent an IOL scleral fixation according to Lewis suturing technique between January 2001 and December 2008 were studied. Patients underwent a complete ophthalmologic evaluation. The IOL stability was assessed using slit-lamp and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) examination. The IOL stability was evaluated in terms of centration and tilting. All the knots were photographed and their integrity assessed.

Results

Follow-up was 60–129 months. Eleven knots appeared evident and undamaged, 6 knots were eroded, and 9 knots were not detectable. All IOLs were stable in the sulcus. Two patients presented a slight decentration of the IOL at the slit-lamp examination, while the AS-OCT demonstrated slight tilting of the lenses in 4 patients.

Conclusions

The Lewis technique for IOL scleral fixation is an optimal surgical technique in case of absence of capsular support. No IOL luxation in the vitreous chamber has been reported; only 2 of the 10 patients with at least one eroded knot presented a minimal decentration of the lens with no influence on visual acuity. Although knot erosion is not an uncommon occurrence, IOL remains stable in the long term, probably due to a fibrotic process around the suture, and the IOL haptics, which prevent IOL dislocation.
TGFBR1 Polymorphism and Risk of Breast Cancer in Iranian Women
Authors: Kamali Elahe , Hemmati Simin , Safari Forouzan , Tavassoli Manoochehr
Published: July 2015

Numerous epidemiological studies have evaluated the association between transforming growth factor beta receptor type 1 ( TGFBR1) polymorphisms and the risk of cancer; however, the results remain inconclusive and controversial. To determine the association between breast cancer risk and the *6A polymorphism of the TGFBR1 gene, a case-control study of 280 breast cancer patients and 280 controls was performed in Iranian women. Our study demonstrates that women who carry the TGFBR1*6A allele are at lower risk of developing breast cancer. The highest protection against breast cancer was observed in 6A/6A homozygotes (OR = 0.32, p = 0.04). A lower frequency of the TGFBR1*6A allele in breast cancer patients may be an important genetic determinant that contributes to a lower risk of breast cancer in Iranian women. The results also showed that the allelic length of TGFBR1 polymorphisms had no significant association with the age at onset or the grade of disease, nor with the expression of progesterone and estrogen receptors and HER2.
Current Outcomes and Indications for Cryopreserved Vein Allografts in Hemodialysis Access Surgery
Authors: Jadlowiec Caroline C. , Lavallee Matthew , Mannion Elizabeth M. , Lally Anne , Rochon Caroline , Sheiner Patricia A. , Brown Matthew G.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Cryopreserved vein allografts (cadaveric vein) have emerged as an option for arteriovenous graft reconstruction; however, indications for their use in hemodialysis access remains to be clearly defined. Observations from our own experience have suggested that cadaveric vein grafts (CVGs) provide good outcomes, particularly in patients with a history of infection, recurrent access failure and advanced age.

Methods

This is a 10-year retrospective study. Primary outcomes were ( 1 ) to identify characteristics specific to this patient population and ( 2 ) to better define indications for use of cadaveric vein in hemodialysis access creation.

Results

Indications for creation of CVGs included patient history of either active or recent infection (41.5%), recurrent access failure (43.4%) or surgeon preference secondary to patients’ advanced age (9.4%). Observed primary patency rates were 84.9% (30 days), 22.6% (1 year) and 16.0% (2 years). Secondary patency was 93.4% (30 days), 66.0% (1 year) and 52.8% (2 years). Patient death was the highest cause of graft abandonment (52.9%) followed by thrombosis (19.1%), infection (11.7%) and rupture (11.7%). CVG patency at the time of patient death was 83.7%.

Conclusions

The rates of both primary and secondary patency in CVGs are highly comparable to the reported patency rates of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts and allow for lifelong maintenance of dialysis access. Our observed outcome suggests that CVGs should be considered for patients needing vascular access in the presence of infection. CVGs may likewise be viable alternatives to PTFE grafts in the elderly and patients with limited access options.
Preemptive Open Surgical vs. Endovascular Repair for Juxta-Anastomotic Stenoses of Autogenous AV Fistulae: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Argyriou Christos , Schoretsanitis Nikolaos , Georgakarakos Efstratios I. , Georgiadis George S. , Lazarides Miltos K.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

There is controversy about the best mode of preemptive repair of juxta-anastomotic stenoses in radial-cephalic arteriovenous fistula (AVFs). The aim of the present review was to compare the outcome of surgical vs. endovascular repair of those AVF stenoses.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed for studies comparing the outcome of open surgical vs. endovascular preemptive repair of AVF stenoses located in the juxta-anastomotic region. A search was carried out in April 2015. The analyzed outcome measures were the primary patency at 12 and 18 months and the assisted primary patency at 24 months. In addition, assessment of the methodological quality of the included studies was carried out.

Results

Four non-randomized cohort studies (297 patients) were analyzed. A random effects model was used to pool the data. The pooled odds ratio (OR and 95% confidence intervals) for the primary patency at 12 and at 18 months was 0.42 (0.25-0.72) and 0.33 (0.2-0.56), respectively, showing statistically significant higher patency of the surgically repaired group. The pooled OR for the assisted primary patency at 24 months was 0.53 (0.28-0.98) also in favor of the surgically repaired group (p<0.04)

Conclusions

The available evidence, based on non-randomized cohort studies, suggests that surgery is the best way to treat ‘juxta-anastomotic’ stenotic lesions in distal radial-cephalic AVFs, although angioplasty remains a valuable but less durable option in this location of the stenosis.
Association of Genetic Polymorphisms in PRKDC and XRCC4 with Risk of ESCC in a High-Incidence Region of North China
Authors: Yang Hong-Li , Qiao Dong-Dong , Li Kun , Cheng Xiao-Li , Yang Jing , Zhao Jian-Jian , Xu Chang-Qing , Li Yan-Qing
Published: July 2015

Background

The nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathway is the main mechanism repairing DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in human cells. This research was designed to study the association between selected variants in NHEJ members and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods

Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), PRKDC (rs7003908) and X-ray repair cross complementing group 4 (XRCC4; rs1805377), were genotyped in a total of 189 patients with ESCC and 189 unrelated control individuals in a high-risk area for ESCC in North China, and the polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method was applied.

Results

A significantly different distribution was found in the frequency of PRKDC (rs7003908) genotype between the ESCC group and controls. Individuals homozygous for the C allele had a significant (3.185-fold) increased risk of ESCC. As for XRCC4 (rs1805377) polymorphism, no difference was found in distribution between the ESCC and control groups.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that variation in DNA repair genes may be associated with risk of ESCC.
Screening the Molecular Targets of Ovarian Cancer Based on Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Du Lei , Qian Xiaolei , Dai Chenyang , Wang Lihua , Huang Ding , Wang Shuying , Shen Xiaowei
Published: July 2015

Aims and background

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy. This study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms of OC and identify potential molecular targets for OC treatment.

Methods and Study Design

Microarray gene expression data (GSE14407) including 12 normal ovarian surface epithelia samples and 12 OC epithelia samples were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between 2 kinds of ovarian tissue were identified by using limma package in R language (|log2 fold change| >1 and false discovery rate [FDR] <0.05). Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) and known OC-related genes were screened from COXPRESdb and GenBank database, respectively. Furthermore, PPI network of top 10 upregulated DEGs and top 10 downregulated DEGs was constructed and visualized through Cytoscape software. Finally, for the genes involved in PPI network, functional enrichment analysis was performed by using DAVID (FDR <0.05).

Results

In total, 1136 DEGs were identified, including 544 downregulated and 592 upregulated DEGs. Then, PPI network was constructed, and DEGs CDKN2A, MUC1, OGN, ZIC1, SOX17, and TFAP2A interacted with known OC-related genes CDK4, EGFR/JUN, SRC, CLI1, CTNNB1, and TP53, respectively. Moreover, functions about oxygen transport and embryonic development were enriched by the genes involved in the network of downregulated DEGs.

Conclusions

We propose that 4 DEGs (OGN, ZIC1, SOX17, and TFAP2A) and 2 functions (oxygen transport and embryonic development) might play a role in the development of OC. These 4 DEGs and known OC-related genes might serve as therapeutic targets for OC. Further studies are required to validate these predictions.
Stability, Prognostic Factors and Survival of Spinal Bone Metastases in Malignant Melanoma Patients after Palliative Radiotherapy
Authors: Bostel Tilman , Förster Robert , Schlampp Ingmar , Wolf Robert , Serras Andre Franke , Mayer Arnulf , Bruckner Thomas , Welzel Thomas , Schmidberger Heinz , Debus Jürgen , Rief Harald
Published: July 2015

Purpose

This retrospective analysis aimed to evaluate the stability of spinal metastases in malignant melanoma patients following radiotherapy (RT), and to assess prognostic factors for survival.

Methods

Forty-one patients with malignant melanoma and osteolytic spinal bone metastases were irradiated at the university clinics of Heidelberg and Mainz between July 2003 and October 2013. Three and six months after palliative RT, only 20 and 15 patients, respectively, were still alive and were therefore assessed for spinal stability using the Taneichi score based on CT imaging. Additionally, overall survival (OS) and bone survival (BS) rates as well as prognostic factors for BS were evaluated for all study patients.

Results

Before RT, 19 patients (46.3%) were rated unstable. In the surviving patients, none of the unstable metastases were classified as stable 6 months after RT. Five-year OS was 23.3% and median BS was 4 months (range 0.5-29.8). Accordingly, only 36.6% of the patients were still alive 6 months after RT. Karnofsky performance score (KPS) <70%, visceral metastases and more than one bone metastasis were significantly predictive of poor BS.

Conclusions

Our study population was characterized by poor BS and a lack of benefit with regard to stabilization of initially unstable spinal bone metastases 3 and 6 months after RT. This applies in particular to patients with a KPS <70%, visceral metastases and multiple bone metastases. Given the limited life expectancy, short fractionated treatment schedules of RT may be preferred in this population.
Definitive Chemoradiation for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Could a Consensus be Reached?
Authors: Sayed Mona M. , El-Sayed Mohamed I. , Abdel-Wanis Mostafa E. , Abdel-Fatah Ola N.
Published: July 2015

Aims and background

There is currently no consensus as to which chemotherapy to combine with thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) in the setting of definitive chemoradiation for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We aimed to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and report outcome measures of cisplatin/etoposide with conventionally fractionated TRT over a 9-year period.

Methods

Cisplatin 50 mg/m² on days 1, 8, 29, and 36 and etoposide 50 mg/m² on days 1-5 and 29-33 with conventionally fractionated conformal radiation therapy starting on day 1 was given to 201 eligible patients. Patient records were reviewed for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).

Results

The 2-year OS and PFS were 53% and 47%, respectively, while the 3-year OS and PFS were 18% and 17%, respectively. No grade 4 or treatment-related deaths were recorded, and grade 3 hematologic toxicity occurred in only 22 patients (11%) in the form of granulocytopenia and thrombocytopenia. Multivariable analysis showed clinical stage and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status to statistically significantly affect PFS and OS.

Conclusions

Cisplatin and etoposide in these doses with conventionally fractionated TRT is a well-tolerated, effective treatment schedule in the definitive treatment of unresectable or inoperable NSCLC.
Bulky Mesonephric Adenocarcinoma of the Uterine Cervix Treated with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Radical Surgery: Report of the First Case
Authors: Ditto Antonino , Martinelli Fabio , Bogani Giorgio , Gasparri Maria L. , Di Donato Violante , Paolini Biagio , Carcangiu Maria L. , Lorusso Domenica , Raspagliesi Francesco
Published: July 2015

Aims and background

Malignant mesonephric adenocarcinoma of the uterine cervix is a rare occurrence with few cases described in the literature. Although surgery seems to be effective in the treatment of early-stage tumor, no cases describing outcomes of locally advanced stage are available.

Methods

We report the first case of a patient with International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecologists stage IIB mesonephric adenocarcinoma undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radical surgery.

Conclusions

Despite the inherent limitation of a single description of a case, our experience supports the utilization of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with malignant mesonephric adenocarcinoma of the uterine cervix. Further prospective multi-institutional studies are needed.
Adjuvant Helical IMRT by Tomotherapy for Bulky Adrenocortical Carcinoma Operated with Positive Margins: A Case Report
Authors: Delmastro Elena , Garibaldi Elisabetta , Gabriele Domenico , Bresciani Sara , Cattari Gabriella , Di Dia Amalia , Manini Claudia , Collura Devis , Redda Maria Grazia Ruo , Gabriele Pietro
Published: July 2015

Background

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare tumor in the adult. The main therapy is surgery but in some cases radiotherapy may be needed to control the disease locally.

Methods

A patient with a surgically removed bulky ACC and pathologic finding of a positive margin was treated at our center by adjuvant mitotane and radiotherapy using an intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)/image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) technique by tomotherapy. Dose prescriptions were 63 Gy on the surgical bed and 50.4 Gy on the lymphatic drainage in 28 sessions. Patient compliance was good with no evidence of acute or late toxicities.

Results

Thirty months after radiotherapy, the patient is alive without evidence of disease checked by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography and without any complication.

Conclusions

In patients with adverse prognostic features, the delivery of adequate adjuvant radiotherapy doses with IMRT and daily IGRT is feasible and safe and could result in an improved outcome for patients with ACC.
Multistakeholder Strategic Third‐Party Logistics Provider Selection: A Real Case in China
Authors: Wang Jian‐Jun , Wang Meng‐Meng , Liu Feng , Chen Haozhe
Published: July 2015

Outsourcing logistics to third‐party logistics (3PL) providers is becoming an increasing trend for companies seeking improved customer service and competitiveness. Choosing a suitable and competitive logistics provider has become more important than ever. In this study, we developed an evaluation and selection framework on strategic 3PL provider selection on the basis of a real case application in China. Multiple criteria and multiple stakeholders were considered to balance the various measurements in this framework. In the actual application, we chose the PROMETHEE technique as our specific evaluation method and we also assessed its effectiveness with further analysis. The results show that our proposed holistic framework is well suited for the strategic 3PL provider selection problem.
Achieving and Exceeding Logistics Outsourcing Expectations in Brazil: A Replication Study
Authors: Hofer Adriana Rossiter , Knemeyer A. Michael , Murphy Paul R.
Published: July 2015

Responding to calls for replication research in the supply chain management literature, the current article reports the results of a replication study that looked at the performance of logistics outsourcing relationships among German logistics managers. More specifically, this article investigates the performance of logistics outsourcing relationships among Brazilian logistics managers and tests the same hypotheses as the focal study. The results indicate that the Brazilian replication is consistent with the focal study on five of the seven hypotheses. With respect to inconsistencies, the focal study found significant positive relationships between proactive improvement and logistics performance outcomes whereas the Brazilian replication did not find significant relationships between proactive improvement and logistics performance outcomes, which reflects the relevant effect of contextual differences between Germany and Brazil. The article offers both managerial and research implications along with suggestions for future research.
The Statement of the Polish Society of Allergology Regarding Necessary Changes in Therapeutic Program of Severe IgE-Mediated Allergic Asthma with Omalizumab
Authors: Bartuzi Zbigniew , Bodzenta-Łukaszyk Anna , Kuna Piotr , Kupryś -Lipińska Izabela , Niżankowska -Mogilnicka Ewa , Samoliński Bolesław
Published: July 2015

According to the current (2015) recommenda-tions of Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) dealing under the auspice of World Health Organization (WHO) and in line with registered by EMA in EU as well as in Poland Summary of Product Charac-teristics (SmPC) [...]
Recorregut de recerca geològica i mineralògica pel pais de Fois / Foix (França): des de Sant Paul de Jarrat, a Freychenet. Col de la Lauze, Montferriér, i a Montsegur
Authors: Mata Perelló Josep Maria , Sanz Balagué Joaquim
Published: July 2015

Recorregut realitzat el 10 de juliol del 2013. El recorregut del present itinerari, es desenvoluparà íntegrament pel Sistema Pirinenc; distribuint en la seva major part per la Zona Nord – Pirinenca. Tot i així, alguns recorreguts es faran dintre de la Zona Axial del Sistema Pirinenc. Així, el recorregut començarà dintre de la primera unitat, (dintre de l´antigament anomenat Prepirineu Septentrional), per la qual es circularà entre Saint  Paul – de – Jarrat i les immediacions de Freychenet. En aquest tram, s´aniran trobant afloraments dels materials mesozoics del Cretàcic. Posteriorment, el recorregut circularà per l´anomenada Zona Axial Pirinenca (pel Massif de Saint Barthélémy), entre Freychenet i el Col de la Louze. En aquest recorregut, es trobaran afloraments dels materials paleozoics del Devonià i del Carbonífer, fonamentalment. Posteriorment entre el Col de la Louze i Montsegur, el recorregut discorrerà entre les dues unitats geològiques acabades d´esmentar. Finalment, per les immediacions de Montsegur, cap a la fi del recorregut, l´itinerari anirà situant-se dintre de Zona Nord – Pirinenca. Per d´altra banda, la totalitat del recorregut es realitzarà pel País de Fois / Foix (és a dir, pel Departament de l´Ariège) per on es realitzarà la totalitat del recorregut, recorrent la vall del riu del mateix nom i algunes de les valls dels seus afluents.
Venture Capitalists as gatekeepers for Biotechnological Innovation
Authors: Fernald Kenneth , Hoeben Ruud , Claassen Eric
Published: July 2015

Venture capitalists (VCs) aim at trade sales as a preferred exit-strategy for biotechnology companies they invest in. Therefore, VCs pay close attention to the wishes of larger (bio)pharmaceutical acquirers. In this paper we explore VCs’ behavior and strategies by analyzing the technology fields and therapeutic areas in which they are invested most and which yield the highest returns by means of trade sales. The data show that VCs are by far most invested in oncology and this is also an area in which relatively high returns are realized. Regarding other areas, VCs could balance their average investment valuations more in correspondence with what acquirers are willing to pay. In addition, VCs have formidable insight in the types of technologies that do well and they seem to employ a strategy focused on both short-term and long-term success. They are investing most in small molecule drugs and protein/peptide therapeutics, which both yield high returns, followed by DNA/RNA technologies which underlie the possibilities of personalized medicine. We conclude that Venture Capitalists act as technological gatekeepers because they are predicting long-term cure and care macro-trends.
A â€˜Genetically Engineeredâ€™ Label: Way More Expensive Than You Think
Authors: Miller Henry I , Brookes Graham
Published: July 2015

Pseudo-controversy continues to rage over whether foods from plants and animals genetically engineered with the newest molecular techniques should have to be labeled as such. The battles, fought in the media, state legislatures, referendum issues, and in federal courts, have been largely fomented and funded by the organic agriculture and food industries. All but one of the proposals to require labeling in the United States have failed, and that exception is being challenged in a federal court . In spite of these failures and the fact that mandatory labeling fails every test â€“scientific, economic, legal and common-senseâ€“the true believers soldier on.
L’impermanence est-elle soluble dans le répertoire?
Authors: Maurin Frédéric
Published: July 2015

À partir de démarches récentes, mais aussi de pratiques plus anciennes, cet article interroge la notion de répertoire en étendant son acception dramatique d’usage à une application scénique. Au théâtre, comme à l’opéra, en danse et dans la performance, il est des gestes artistiques et des processus créateurs qui, étroitement liés aux notions voisines de reprise, de variation, de citation et, désormais, de reenactment, permettent de valider l’hypothèse que ne revient pas au seul texte l’apanage de se constituer en mémoire – une mémoire vive, susceptible d’être ranimée et rejouée, c’est-à-dire interprétée.
Le théâtre de Claudel : création vivante d’un répertoire
Authors: Dubor Françoise
Published: July 2015

Paul Claudel, réputé auteur dramatique et poète catholique, est entré dans le répertoire sous la catégorisation de son obédience religieuse. Il y a là un malentendu qui entrave sa réception : son oeuvre n’est pas le lieu d’expression de ses convictions religieuses, en revanche elle tend à redéfinir les bases mêmes du théâtre dramatique, dans un mouvement novateur qu’il est temps de reconnaître. C’est ce qu’ont fait des hommes de théâtre comme Antoine Vitez ou Valère Novarina. Il faudrait que le public, profane et savant, en prenne à son tour la mesure.
Poétique de la mémoire fragmentée : fondement d’un répertoire des dramaturgies contemporaines d’Afrique noire francophone
Authors: Traoré Dominique
Published: July 2015

Dans le contexte africain où les institutions de formation et de production en matière d’art sont rarissimes, la notion de répertoire reste problématique. Les répertoires théâtraux s’établissent autrement que par des paradigmes liés aux instances de consécration. Ainsi, nous regroupons les théâtres de la post-indépendance (1989-2015) autour de ce que nous appelons la poétique de la mémoire fragmentée. Il s’agit d’une écriture de la dislocation des catégories dramatiques en phase avec les défis idéologiques des auteurs de l’exil, héritiers de la mondialisation culturelle. Sur cette base, nous classons ces théâtres dans le répertoire des dramaturgies de la dépossession de soi.
Arquitetura colonial baiana: alguns aspectos da sua história
Authors: C. Smith Robert
Published: July 2015

O Arquivo Histórico Colonial Português, de Lisboa, possui riquíssimas coleções de desenhos de edifícios do período colonial, incluindo a arquitetura da antiga capital do Brasil. Os documentos anexos, com seus largos relatórios sobre obras públicas e de caridade, merecem a atenção de todos os estudiosos da história da arquitetura colonial, revelando não somente as origens de muitos monumentos, mas oferecendo preciosas elucidações a respeito das modificações que esses edifícios sofreram, principalmente no século XVIII.
Self-recognition drives the preferential accumulation of promiscuous CD4+ T-cells in aged mice
Authors: Deshpande Neha R , Parrish Heather L , Kuhns Michael S
Published: July 2015

T-cell recognition of self and foreign peptide antigens presented in major histocompatibility complex molecules (pMHC) is essential for life-long immunity. How the ability of the CD4+ T-cell compartment to bind self- and foreign-pMHC changes over the lifespan remains a fundamental aspect of T-cell biology that is largely unexplored. We report that, while old mice (18–22 months) contain fewer CD4+ T-cells compared with adults (8–12 weeks), those that remain have a higher intrinsic affinity for self-pMHC, as measured by CD5 expression. Old mice also have more cells that bind individual or multiple distinct foreign-pMHCs, and the fold increase in pMHC-binding populations is directly related to their CD5 levels. These data demonstrate that the CD4+ T-cell compartment preferentially accumulates promiscuous constituents with age as a consequence of higher affinity T-cell receptor interactions with self-pMHC.
Theory, models and biology
Authors: Shou Wenying , Bergstrom Carl T , Chakraborty Arup K , Skinner Frances K
Published: July 2015

Theoretical ideas have a rich history in many areas of biology, and new theories and mathematical models have much to offer in the future.
VCP-dependent muscle degeneration is linked to defects in a dynamic tubular lysosomal network in vivo
Authors: Johnson Alyssa E , Shu Huidy , Hauswirth Anna G , Tong Amy , Davis Graeme W
Published: July 2015

Lysosomes are classically viewed as vesicular structures to which cargos are delivered for degradation. Here, we identify a network of dynamic, tubular lysosomes that extends throughout Drosophila muscle, in vivo. Live imaging reveals that autophagosomes merge with tubular lysosomes and that lysosomal membranes undergo extension, retraction, fusion and fission. The dynamics and integrity of this tubular lysosomal network requires VCP, an AAA-ATPase that, when mutated, causes degenerative diseases of muscle, bone and neurons. We show that human VCP rescues the defects caused by loss of Drosophila VCP and overexpression of disease relevant VCP transgenes dismantles tubular lysosomes, linking tubular lysosome dysfunction to human VCP-related diseases. Finally, disruption of tubular lysosomes correlates with impaired autophagosome-lysosome fusion, increased cytoplasmic poly-ubiquitin aggregates, lipofuscin material, damaged mitochondria and impaired muscle function. We propose that VCP sustains sarcoplasmic proteostasis, in part, by controlling the integrity of a dynamic tubular lysosomal network.
Immune surveillance of the lung by migrating tissue monocytes
Authors: Rodero Mathieu P , Poupel Lucie , Loyher Pierre-Louis , Hamon Pauline , Licata Fabrice , Pessel Charlotte , Hume David A , Combadière Christophe , Boissonnas Alexandre
Published: July 2015

Monocytes are phagocytic effector cells in the blood and precursors of resident and inflammatory tissue macrophages. The aim of the current study was to analyse and compare their contribution to innate immune surveillance of the lung in the steady state with macrophage and dendritic cells (DC). ECFP and EGFP transgenic reporters based upon Csf1r and Cx3cr1 distinguish monocytes from resident mononuclear phagocytes. We used these transgenes to study the migratory properties of monocytes and macrophages by functional imaging on explanted lungs. Migratory monocytes were found to be either patrolling within large vessels of the lung or locating at the interface between lung capillaries and alveoli. This spatial organisation gives to monocytes the property to capture fluorescent particles derived from both vascular and airway routes. We conclude that monocytes participate in steady-state surveillance of the lung, in a way that is complementary to resident macrophages and DC, without differentiating into macrophages.
Flexible Learning Itineraries Based on Conceptual Maps
Authors: Agudelo Olga Lucía , Salinas Jesús
Published: July 2015

The use of learning itineraries based on conceptual maps is studied in order to propose a more flexible instructional design that strengthens the learning process focused on the student, generating non-linear processes, characterising its elements, setting up relationships between them and shaping a general model with specifications for each educational level. Through a methodology built on the Successive Approximation Model (SAM), this article studies learning itinerary design, implementation and assessment process, representing, through non-linear organised conceptual maps, sets of activities leading to the development of competencies that must be understood, mastered and demonstrated. Obtained results show the adequacy of a learning itinerary based on conceptual maps of the subjects’ characteristics, solving real situations through the construction and creation of new schemes and knowledge management methods while contributing to a reflection on curricular design principles using ICT and generating learning-process autonomy.
School organization and the mobilization of teachers and students in the use of a new general secondary education curriculum in East Timor
Authors: Capelo Ana , Cabrita Isabel
Published: July 2015

Given that reforms involving how to deal with the past are extremely difficult, especially when the past involves memories of victimization, death, and destruction so widespread that a high percentage of the population is affected, the main purpose of this article is to describe how the general secondary education (GSE) curriculum in East Timor –an ancient Portuguese colony– is organized in terms of principles and objectives, themes, and methodo-logical guidelines that give priority to assisting students to minimize or manage problems associated with conflict. Subsequently, the current state of GSE is characterized, in terms of school organization and logistics, and mobilization of teachers and students in using the new curriculum. The empirical results show that curricular materials incorporate aspects that can contribute to understanding and minimizing or managing problems created by the conflict, as well as contributing to avoid new conflicts. Nevertheless, although textbooks incorporate these aspects and teachers and students express interest in use them, problems remain regarding their appropriate usage due to numerous factors such as: logistics; school organization and poor teacher skills, despite training given and continued focused investment.
A Multi‐institutional, Prospective, Phase II Feasibility Study of Laparoscopy‐Assisted Distal Gastrectomy with D2 Lymph Node Dissection for Locally Advanced Gastric Cancer (JLSSG0901)
Authors: Inaki Noriyuki , Etoh Tsuyoshi , Ohyama Tetsuji , Uchiyama Kazuhisa , Katada Natsuya , Koeda Keisuke , Yoshida Kazuhiro , Takagane Akinori , Kojima Kazuyuki , Sakuramoto Shinichi , Shiraishi Norio , Kitano Seigo
Published: July 2015

Background

The efficacy and safety outcomes of laparoscopy‐assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) with D2 lymph node dissection for locally advanced gastric cancer remain unclear. Therefore, we conducted a randomized, controlled phase II trial to confirm the feasibility of LADG in terms of technical safety, and short‐term surgical outcomes were investigated.

Methods

Eligibility criteria included pre‐operatively diagnosed advanced gastric cancer that could be treated by distal gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection; MP, SS, and SE without involvement of other organs; and N0–2 and M0. Patients aged 20–80 years were pre‐operatively randomized.

Results

In total, 180 patients were registered and randomized to the open (89 patients) and laparoscopic arms (91 patients). Among 91 patients in the laparoscopic arm, 86 underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy according to the study protocol. Regarding the primary endpoint of the phase II trial, the proportion of patients with either anastomotic leakage or pancreatic fistula was 4.7 % (4/86). The grade 3 or higher morbidity rate, including systemic and local complications, was 5.8 %. Conversion to open surgery was required for 1 patient (1.2 %), without any intra‐operative complication. The post‐operative mortality rate was 0, and no patient required readmission for surgical complications within 6 months after initial discharge.

Conclusions

The technical safety of LADG with D2 lymph node dissection for locally advanced gastric cancer was demonstrated. A phase III trial to confirm the non‐inferiority of this procedure to open gastrectomy in terms of long‐term outcomes is ongoing. Registered Number: UMIN 000003420 (www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/).
Chamaecyparis montane cloud forest in Taiwan: ecology and vegetation classification
Authors: Li Ching‐Feng , Zelený David , Chytrý Milan , Chen Ming‐Yih , Chen Tze‐Ying , Chiou Chyi‐Rong , Hsia Yue‐Joe , Liu Ho‐Yih , Yang Sheng‐Zehn , Yeh Ching‐Long , Wang Jenn‐Che , Yu Chiou‐Feng , Lai Yen‐Jen , Guo Ke , Hsieh Chang‐Fu
Published: July 2015

Montane cloud forest is one of the most endangered ecosystems. However, there are few comprehensive studies on the distribution of subtropical montane cloud forest (SMCF). Chamaecyparis forest is one type of SMCF in Taiwan, distributed across the whole island. This study describes eleven types of this forest in Taiwan based on the Braun‐Blanquet approach. Plots were selected from the National Vegetation Database of Taiwan. Two alliances were defined, both of which belong to the order Fagetalia hayatae. Topography and altitude explain the contrasting habitat requirements of these two alliances, whereas seasonality of moisture, soil properties and altitude explain differences in floristic composition at the association level. The alliance of Chamaecyparidion formosanae on slopes and ridges includes coniferous or mixed coniferous and evergreen broad‐leaved forests; it is found at higher altitudes and is more influenced by the summer monsoon than the other alliance. Five associations are defined within this alliance. The alliance of Pasanio kawakamii‐Machilion japonicae growing on slopes and in valleys contains evergreen broad‐leaved forests or forests with a mixture of coniferous and evergreen broad‐leaved species. Six associations can be determined under the alliance of Pasanio kawakamii‐Machilion japonicae. Classification of each syntaxon was formalized using Cocktail Determination Key.
Discontinuous Precipitation in Ni-Base Superalloys During Solution Heat Treatment
Authors: Welton D. , D’Souza N. , Kelleher J. , Gardner S. , Dong Z. H. , West G. D. , Dong Hongbiao
Published: July 2015

Discontinuous precipitation in single-crystal Ni-base superalloys during solution heat treatment has been studied. It is found that discontinuous precipitation occurs at temperatures approaching the solvus, where volume diffusion is dominant. Diffusion of Al ahead of the boundary leads to gamma prime precipitation and is accompanied by a loss in the driving force available for advancement of the grain boundary. The rate of gamma prime precipitation was tracked using in situ neutron diffraction during isothermal hold. Gamma prime precipitation is accompanied by super-saturation of Cr and W within the channels ahead of the interface. The driving force calculated for the initial stages of DP was [10-5 to 10-4] N/[μm2 of the grain boundary]. The results provide an insight into discontinuous precipitation during solution heat treatment of Ni-base single-crystal alloys and are useful in optimizing the heat treatment process to avoid surface defect formation.