bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polylactide Conjugates of Camptothecin with Different Drug Release Abilities
Authors: Oledzka Ewa , Horeglad Paweł , Gruszczyńska Zuzanna , Plichta Andrzej , Nałęcz-Jawecki Grzegorz , Sobczak Marcin
Published: November 2014

Camptothecin-polylactide conjugates (CMPT-PLA) were synthesized by covalent incorporation of CMPT into PLA of different microstructure, i.e., atactic PLA and atactic-block-isotactically enriched PLA (Pm = 0.79) via urethane bonds. The kinetic release of CPMT from CMPT-PLA conjugates, tested in vitro under different conditions, is possible in both cases and notably, strongly dependent on PLA microstructure. It shows that release properties of drug-PLA conjugates can be tailored by controlled design of the PLA microstructure, and allow in the case of CMPT-PLA conjugates for the development of highly controlled biodegradable CMPT systems—important delivery systems for anti-cancer agents.
Resolving Early Signaling Events in T-Cell Activation Leading to IL-2 and FOXP3 Transcription
Authors: Perley Jeffrey , Mikolajczak Judith , Buzzard Gregery , Harrison Marietta , Rundell Ann
Published: November 2014

Signal intensity and feedback regulation are known to be major factors in the signaling events stemming from the T-cell receptor (TCR) and its various coreceptors, but the exact nature of these relationships remains in question. We present a mathematical model of the complex signaling network involved in T-cell activation with cross-talk between the Erk, calcium, PKC and mTOR signaling pathways. The model parameters are adjusted to fit new and published data on TCR trafficking, Zap70, calcium, Erk and Isignaling. The regulation of the early signaling events by phosphatases, CD45 and SHP1, and the TCR dynamics are critical to determining the behavior of the model. Additional model corroboration is provided through quantitative and qualitative agreement with experimental data collected under different stimulating and knockout conditions. The resulting model is analyzed to investigate how signal intensity and feedback regulation affect TCR- and coreceptor-mediated signal transduction and their downstream transcriptional profiles to predict the outcome for a variety of stimulatory and knockdown experiments. Analysis of the model shows that: (1) SHP1 negative feedback is necessary for preventing hyperactivity in TCR signaling; (2) CD45 is required for TCR signaling, but also partially suppresses it at high expression levels; and (3) elevated FOXP3 and reduced IL-2 signaling, an expression profile often associated with T regulatory cells (Tregs), is observed when the system is subjected to weak TCR and CD28 costimulation or a severe reduction in CD45 activity.
The Multiple Functions and Services of Community Seedbanks
Authors: Vernooy Ronnie , Sthapit Bhuwon , Galluzzi Gea , Shrestha Pitambar
Published: November 2014

Although community-level seed-saving initiatives have existed in many countries around the world for about 30 years, they have rarely been the subject of systematic scientific enquiry. Based on a combination of a literature review and field research, we present a novel comprehensive conceptual framework that focuses on the multiple functions and services provided by community-based seed-saving efforts, in particular community seed banks. This framework is output oriented and complements an input oriented typology of community seed banks presented in 1997. The framework identifies three core functions: conserving genetic resources; enhancing access to and availability of diverse local crops; and ensuring seed and food sovereignty. The framework can be used for analysis of existing seed-saving initiatives and serve as a guide for the establishment of new community seed banks. In addition, it can inform the development or revision of national policies or strategies to support community seed banks. The framework’s utility is illustrated by three case studies of community seed banks in Bangladesh, Guatemala and Nepal.
Cultivated Land Information Extraction and Gradient Analysis for a North-South Transect in Northeast Asia between 2000 and 2010
Authors: Wang Juanle , Zhou Yujie , Zhu Lijun , Gao Mengxu , Li Yifan
Published: November 2014

Cultivated land resources are an important basis of regional sustainability; thus, it is important to determine the distribution of the cultivated land in the Northeast Asia trans-boundary area of China, Russia and Mongolia, which has a continuous geographic and ecological environment and an uneven population distribution. Extracting information about the cultivated land and determining the spatial and temporal distribution of its features in this large trans-boundary area is a challenge. In this study, we derived information about the cultivated land of the North-South Transect in Northeast Asia by Linear Spectral Mixing Model, using time series data with MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) in 2000 and 2010. The validation showed more than 98% pixels with a root mean square error less than 0.05. The overall accuracy and spatial consistency coefficients were 81.63% and 0.78 in 2000 and 72.81% and 0.75 in 2010, respectively. The transect analyses indicate the presence of a greater amount of cultivated land in the south and less in the north. China owns most of the cultivated land in the transect area, followed by Mongolia and then Russia. A gradient analysis revealed a decrease of 34.16% of the cultivated land between 2000 and 2010. The amount of cultivated land decreased 22.37%, 58.93%, and 64.73% in China, Russia, and Mongolia, respectively. An analysis shows that the amount of cultivated land is primarily influenced by the various land development and protection policies in the different counties in this trans-boundary area.
An Improved Performance Frequency Estimation Algorithm for Passive Wireless SAW Resonant Sensors
Authors: Liu Boquan , Zhang Chenrui , Ji Xiaojun , Chen Jing , Han Tao
Published: November 2014

Passive wireless surface acoustic wave (SAW) resonant sensors are suitable for applications in harsh environments. The traditional SAW resonant sensor system requires, however, Fourier transformation (FT) which has a resolution restriction and decreases the accuracy. In order to improve the accuracy and resolution of the measurement, the singular value decomposition (SVD)-based frequency estimation algorithm is applied for wireless SAW resonant sensor responses, which is a combination of a single tone undamped and damped sinusoid signal with the same frequency. Compared with the FT algorithm, the accuracy and the resolution of the method used in the self-developed wireless SAW resonant sensor system are validated.
The Electronic McPhail Trap
Authors: Potamitis Ilyas , Rigakis Iraklis , Fysarakis Konstantinos
Published: November 2014

Certain insects affect cultivations in a detrimental way. A notable case is the olive fruit ﬂy (Bactrocera oleae (Rossi)), that in Europe alone causes billions of euros in crop-loss/per year. Pests can be controlled with aerial and ground bait pesticide sprays, the efficiency of which depends on knowing the time and location of insect infestations as early as possible. The inspection of traps is currently carried out manually. Automatic monitoring traps can enhance efficient monitoring of flying pests by identifying and counting targeted pests as they enter the trap. This work deals with the hardware setup of an insect trap with an embedded optoelectronic sensor that automatically records insects as they fly in the trap. The sensor responsible for detecting the insect is an array of phototransistors receiving light from an infrared LED. The wing-beat recording is based on the interruption of the emitted light due to the partial occlusion from insect’s wings as they fly in the trap. We show that the recordings are of high quality paving the way for automatic recognition and transmission of insect detections from the field to a smartphone. This work emphasizes the hardware implementation of the sensor and the detection/counting module giving all necessary implementation details needed to construct it.
Performance Improvement in Geographic Routing for Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Kaiwartya Omprakash , Kumar Sushil , Lobiyal D. , Abdullah Abdul , Hassan Ahmed
Published: November 2014

Geographic routing is one of the most investigated themes by researchers for reliable and efficient dissemination of information in Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs). Recently, different Geographic Distance Routing (GEDIR) protocols have been suggested in the literature. These protocols focus on reducing the forwarding region towards destination to select the Next Hop Vehicles (NHV). Most of these protocols suffer from the problem of elevated one-hop link disconnection, high end-to-end delay and low throughput even at normal vehicle speed in high vehicle density environment. This paper proposes a Geographic Distance Routing protocol based on Segment vehicle, Link quality and Degree of connectivity (SLD-GEDIR). The protocol selects a reliable NHV using the criteria segment vehicles, one-hop link quality and degree of connectivity. The proposed protocol has been simulated in NS-2 and its performance has been compared with the state-of-the-art protocols: P-GEDIR, J-GEDIR and V-GEDIR. The empirical results clearly reveal that SLD-GEDIR has lower link disconnection and end-to-end delay, and higher throughput as compared to the state-of-the-art protocols. It should be noted that the performance of the proposed protocol is preserved irrespective of vehicle density and speed.
Quantitative Efficiency Evaluation Method for Transportation Networks
Authors: Qin Jin , He Yuxin , Ni Linglin
Published: November 2014

An effective evaluation of transportation network efficiency/performance is essential to the establishment of sustainable development in any transportation system. Based on a redefinition of transportation network efficiency, a quantitative efficiency evaluation method for transportation network is proposed, which could reflect the effects of network structure, traffic demands, travel choice, and travel costs on network efficiency. Furthermore, the efficiency-oriented importance measure for network components is presented, which can be used to help engineers identify the critical nodes and links in the network. The numerical examples show that, compared with existing efficiency evaluation methods, the network efficiency value calculated by the method proposed in this paper can portray the real operation situation of the transportation network as well as the effects of main factors on network efficiency. We also find that the network efficiency and the importance values of the network components both are functions of demands and network structure in the transportation network.
Architectural Professionals’ Needs and Preferences for Sustainable Building Guidelines in Korea
Authors: Han Ji , Kim Sun
Published: November 2014

The issue of sustainability has become one of the major concerns among architectural professionals throughout the world. As a way of providing information, many countries have developed and distributed sustainable building guidelines. This paper aims to investigate architectural professionals’ needs and preferences with regard to sustainable building guidelines in Korea, with a specific focus on various guideline attributes. We conducted a review of existing sustainable building guidelines in many countries and undertook a questionnaire survey among professionals in Korea to gain insight about their opinions. Forty guidelines were examined and characterized by their attributes, including main purpose, target building type, communication format, hierarchy of the information, and information type. As the main purposes of guidelines, professionals identified “to provide education on the significance of sustainable buildings and promote a better understanding of sustainable principles” and “to provide comprehensive and detailed information on sustainable building design strategies and technologies”. Cost, financial information, as well as comprehensive implementation methods were found to be crucial information types for professionals.
Generation of a Tropically Adapted Energy Performance Certificate for Residential Buildings
Authors: Wagner Karl
Published: November 2014

Since the 1990s, national green building certification indices have emerged around the globe as promising measurement tools for environmental-friendly housing. Since 2008, tools for countries in the Northern “colder” hemisphere have been adapted to tropical countries. In contrast, the Tropically Adapted Energy Performance Certificate (TEPC), established in 2012, translates the United Nations’ triple bottom line principle into green building sustainability (planet), thermal comfort (people) and affordability (profit). The tool has been especially developed and revamped for affordable green building assessment helping to reduce global warming. Hence, by the comparably simple and transparent energy audit it provides, the TEPC examines buildings for their: (1) contribution to reduce CO2; (2) transmission rate in shielding a building’s envelope against the effects of the tropical heat; (3) generation of thermal comfort and (4) referring total cost of ownership to green the building further. All four dimensions are measured in the rainbow colour scale in compliance with national energy regulations. Accordingly, this research examines the tool’s implementation in tropical countries. Exemplified tropical case studies in residential areas seek to demonstrate the practicability of the approach and to derive a holistic certification by an internationally accredited certification board.
Farmers’ Perception of Precision Farming Technology among Hungarian Farmers
Authors: Lencsés Enikő , Takács István , Takács-György Katalin
Published: November 2014

Many technologies have appeared in agriculture to reduce the harmful effects of chemical use. One of these technologies is precision farming technology. Precision farming technology should not be considered as only the latest plant production technology or only a new agro-management tool. It is achieved only when the results of electronics and IT equipment are realized in the variable rate treatments zone-by-zone. The advantages and disadvantages of this technology highly depend on the heterogeneity of soil, the knowledge and attitude of the manager and the staff. This is the reason why opinions about the technology effects are so wide. This paper shows the results of the investigation based on interviews about the adoption and knowledge of precision farming technology among Hungarian crop producers. This technology is mostly used by farms over 300 hectares with young farmers. The most characteristic elements were precision fertilization and tractor guidance. The survey examined three groups of farmers with respect to whether they apply precision farming elements or not. We refer to them as “users”, “planners” and “non-users”. According to the survey, the opinions of the “user” and the “non-user” groups of farmers are not significantly different regarding the impacts of precision farming technology (the main advantages were the change in yield quantity, chemical usage and income). Furthermore, the opinions of the farmers regarding the changes in variable costs resulting from the adoption of precision farming technology were also examined (measured in percent). Box-plot analysis was used for this examination. According to the opinion of the “user” group of farmers, the highest cost savings occurred in fertilizer and herbicide costs.
Feasibility Study of a Simple and Low-Cost Device for Monitoring Trihalomethanes Presence in Water Supply Systems Based on Statistical Models
Authors: Rivadeneyra Almudena , García-Ruiz Maria , Delgado-Ramos Fernando , González-Martínez Alejandro , Osorio Francisco , Rabaza Ovidio
Published: November 2014

This paper describes a new method for predicting trihalomethanes (THMs) presence in networks of water supply systems, using a low-cost device that permits a fast monitoring of concentrations without need of complex analysis made in laboratories. This method, based on statistical models, allows the estimation of THM concentration by monitoring parameters whose determination is direct and easy, and therefore, THM presence can be carried out in real-time. These parameters values are introduced in a multiple regression model resulting in the concentration of THMs levels. This model has taken into account parameters compulsory in water quality analysis and it has been shown that six parameters are enough to determine accurately THM concentration. In addition, the feasibility of a low-cost device that directly gives THM concentration is demonstrated. This device can be easily designed to be transported to different points of the water supply network where it is intended to make control campaigns.
Inherently chiral calix[4]arenes via oxazoline directed ortholithiation: synthesis and probe of chiral space
Authors: Herbert Simon A , van Laeren Laura J , Castell Dominic C , Arnott Gareth E
Published: November 2014

The diastereoselective oxazoline-directed lithiation of calix[4]arenes is reported with diastereoselective ratios of greater than 100:1 in some instances. Notably, it has been found that the opposite diastereomer can be accessed via this approach merely through the choice of an alkyllithium reagent. The inherently chiral oxazoline calix[4]arenes have also been preliminarily examined as ligands in the palladium-catalyzed Tsuji–Trost allylation reaction, returning results comparable to their planar chiral ferrocene counterparts pointing towards future application of these types of compounds.
A QUANTITATIVE EVALUATION OF THEORETICAL RENEWABLE ENERGY POTENTIAL OF THE BUILDING SITE
Authors: Žėkas Vygantas , Martinaitis Vytautas , Streckienė Giedrė , Vilutienė Tatjana
Published: November 2014

Modern building design process is becoming more complex. Local conditions and future constructions are computer-simulated. The aim of this simulation is to evaluate theoretical RE potential for the successful and efficient exploitation of the new building. As usual, in the simulation process of local conditions, the assessment of the renewable energy potential is one of the key elements. This article presents and analyses the idea of the quantitative evaluation of renewable energy (RE) theoretical potential of the building site and the approach on how to prepare initial data file for further process of site energy development concept creation. The study describes a building site that is undergoing the RE evaluation in terms of thermodynamic and descriptive statistics characteristics. The applicability of the offered approach was verified in the case study. The specified evaluation of the combined energy fluctuation throughout the year provides new and potentially crucial information about the issues of the RE hybrid energy transformation systems’ modelling and about the efficient use of resources to ensure the same level of energy services.
BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEMS FOR Q-DIERENCE EQUATIONS AND INCLUSIONS WITH NONLOCAL AND INTEGRAL BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
Authors: Ahmad Bashir , Ntouyas Sotiris K.
Published: November 2014

In this paper, we study boundary value problems for q-difference equa-
tions and inclusions with nonlocal and integral boundary conditions. Some new exis-
tence and uniqueness results are obtained by using a variety of xed point theorems.
Examples are given to illustrate the results.
A LIMIT THEOREM FOR TWISTS OF L-FUNCTIONS OF ELLIPTIC CURVES
Authors: Garbaliauskienė Virginija , Laurinčikas Antanas
Published: November 2014

In the paper, a limit theorem for weakly convergent probability measures on the complex plane for twisted with Dirichlet character L-functions of elliptic curves with an increasing modulus of the character is proved.
MELLIN TRANSFORM OF DIRICHLET L-FUNCTIONS WITH PRIMITIVE CHARACTER
Authors: Balčiūnas Aidas , Šiaučiūnas Darius
Published: November 2014

In the paper, meromorphic continuation for the modified Mellin transform of Dirichlet L-functions with primitive character is obtained.
Le mouvement des « green bans »
Authors: Burgmann Verity , Felli Romain
Published: November 2014

L’arme ultime des syndicats de travailleurs reste le refus de travailler. Dans les années 1970 en Australie, cette arme a été utilisée par des syndicats radicalisés afin de faire avancer des causes qui dépassaient largement l’intérêt immédiat de leurs membres et mettaient en avant la « responsabilité sociale et environnementale du travail ». En décrétant des boycotts pour raisons écologiques, sociales et urbanistiques, le syndicat de la construction à Sydney a créé une forme inédite de lutte écologique radicale en provenance de la classe ouvrière.
Les causes environnementales en Égypte
Authors: Steuer Clément
Published: November 2014

L’Égypte – du fait des graves problèmes de pollution auxquels elle est confrontée, et de la vigueur des luttes sociales qui rythment son actualité depuis désormais une bonne décennie – a connu des modalités originales d’articulation des causes sociales et environnementales. Alors que la stratégie de politisation par le haut des questions écologiques, portée par le parti des Verts (?izb al-khu?r) depuis la fin des années 1980, a rapidement fait long feu, on a vu se multiplier ces dernières années, dans un contexte de montée de la contestation politique et sociale, des mouvements de protestation localisés rassemblant de larges secteurs de la population autour d’enjeux environnementaux. L’un de ces mouvements, organisé à Damiette en 2008, a même pu acquérir une visibilité nationale et obtenir en quelques mois d’importantes concessions de la part du gouvernement.
Un nouveau syndicalisme : ralentir l'engrenage de la production
Authors: Obach Brian , Grisoni Anahita
Published: November 2014

Brian Obach met ici en scène la théorie de « l’engrenage de la production » (treadmill of production) de Allan Schnaiberg. Elle repose sur l’idée que la production est un processus dans lequel une diversité d’acteurs trouve son compte, et contribue donc à l’alimenter : l’État y trouve des recettes, les actionnaires des profits, les travailleurs des revenus. Mais dans le même temps cette même production dévore littéralement la planète, avec les conséquences que l’on connaît. Comment en sortir ? Obach ne croit pas aux mouvements de justice environnementale, qui sont importants mais resteront localisés et fragmentés. D’après lui, les mouvements de travailleurs incarnent la meilleure opposition à ce processus.
Chili 1973. « On a décidé de faire la lutte armée »
Authors: Cottin-Marx Simon
Published: November 2014

Quand est-ce que la lutte armée est légitime ? C’est à partir de cette question qu’a été réalisé cet entretien avec José Maldavsky. Il partage avec nous une partie de son parcours : du Chili d’Allende à la résistance contre la dictature de Pinochet.
Family Caregivers’ Experiences in Nursing Homes: Narratives on Human Dignity and Uneasiness
Authors: Lohne Vibeke , Rehnsfeldt Arne , Råholm Maj-Britt , Lindwall Lillemor , Caspari Synnøve , Sæteren Berit , Høy Bente , Lillestø Britt , Heggestad Anne Kari Tolo , Slettebø Åshild , Aasgaard Trygve , Nåden Dagfinn
Published: November 2014

This qualitative study focused on dignity in nursing homes from the perspective of family caregivers. Dignity is a complex concept and central to nursing. Dignity in nursing homes is a challenge, according to research. Family caregivers are frequently involved in their family members’ daily experiences at the nursing home. Twenty-eight family caregivers were included in this Scandinavian cross-country, descriptive, and explorative study. A phenomenological-hermeneutic approach was used to understand the meaning of the narrated text. The interpretations revealed two main themes: “One should treat others as one would like others to treat oneself” and “Uneasiness due to indignity.” Dignity was maintained in experiences of respect, confidence, security, and charity. Uneasiness occurred when indignity arose. Although family caregivers may be taciturn, their voices are important in nursing homes. Further investigation of family caregivers’ experiences in the context of nursing homes is warranted.
[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2014; 7(6):265–272.]
Ultrahigh-Speed Swept-Source OCT Angiography in Exudative AMD
Authors: Moult Eric , Choi WooJhon , Waheed Nadia K. , Adhi Mehreen , Lee ByungKun , Lu Chen D. , Jayaraman Vijaysekhar , Potsaid Benjamin , Rosenfeld Philip J. , Duker Jay S. , Fujimoto James G.
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the potential of ultrahigh-speed swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) to visualize retinal and choroidal vascular changes in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Observational, prospective cross-sectional study. An ultrahigh-speed swept-source prototype was used to perform OCTA of the retinal and choriocapillaris microvasculature in 63 eyes of 32 healthy controls and 19 eyes of 15 patients with exudative AMD. Main outcome measure: qualitative comparison of the retinal and choriocapillaris microvasculature in the two groups.

RESULTS:

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) was clearly visualized in 16 of the 19 eyes with exudative AMD, located above regions of severe choriocapillaris alteration. In 14 of these eyes, the CNV lesions were surrounded by regions of choriocapillaris alteration.

CONCLUSION:

OCTA may offer noninvasive monitoring of the retinal and choriocapillaris microvasculature in patients with CNV, which may assist in diagnosis and monitoring.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:496–505.]
Frequency of Vitreomacular Interface Disease in Patients Presenting to a Tertiary Care Institution
Authors: Xu Lucy T. , Punjabi Omar S. , Shao Jack , Ehlers Justis P. , Srivastava Sunil K. , Singh Rishi P. , Kaiser Peter K.
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the frequency of vitreomacular interface disease using a recently published optical coherence tomography (OCT) classification and assess which of these patients would qualify for ocriplasmin.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A retrospective, consecutive case series of patients with macular cyst, hole, or pseudohole (ICD-9 code 362.54) and concurrent OCT imaging was performed. Eyes were classified using OCT as pseudohole, lamellar hole, vitreomacular adhesion (VMA), vitreomacular traction (VMT), and full-thickness macular hole (FTMH). Minimum diameter (MD) of FTMH was measured.

RESULTS:

The study included 399 eyes of 331 patients. Of these, 61 eyes (15.3%) had VMA or VMT, 120 (30.0%) had a lamellar hole or pseudohole, and 218 (54.6%) had FTMH. Of eyes with FTMH, 73 were small (< 250 µm MD), 48 were medium (250 to 400 µm MD), and 97 were large (> 400 µm MD). Overall, 68 eyes (17.0%) would be candidates for ocriplasmin therapy.

CONCLUSION:

Most patients had FTMH, and 17% would qualify as candidates for ocriplasmin therapy.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:517–520.]
Response to Aflibercept After Frequent Re-treatment With Bevacizumab or Ranibizumab in Eyes With Neovascular AMD
Authors: Thorell Mariana R. , Nunes Renata Portella , Chen Gene W. , Doshi Rishi R. , Dugar Jyoti , George Mathew K. , Kim Brian T. , Lowrance Matthew D. , Modi Dimple , Nahas Zayna , Gregori Giovanni , Yehoshua Zohar , Feuer William , Rosenfeld Philip J.
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the effects of switching to aflibercept in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) requiring frequent re-treatment with bevacizumab or ranibizumab.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective review of 73 eyes of 65 patients with neovascular AMD switched to aflibercept due to persistent or recurrent macular fluid after at least 1 year of intravitreal bevacizumab or ranibizumab with re-treatment at least every 6 weeks. Minimum post-switch follow-up was 6 months. All patients were treated using a treat-and-extend strategy. The treatment intervals immediately after and before the switch were the same.

RESULTS:

The mean pre-switch anti-VEGF therapy duration was 45 months, and the mean number of injections was 31. In the 6 months after the switch, the average number of injections was reduced by 0.6 compared with the 6 months before the switch (
P
< .001). Visual acuity was unchanged during this period (
P
= .78). Central retinal thickness (CRT) decreased by 19 µm after the switch (
P
< .001). Seventy eyes had vascularized retinal pigment epithelial detachments (PEDs). The decrease in the PED cube-root volume during the 6 months after the switch was statistically significant (−0.07 mm;
P
= .007).

CONCLUSION:

The number of injections, CRT, and PED volume decreased significantly after the switch to aflibercept, but visual acuity was unchanged.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:526–533.]
Preclinical Investigations of Intravitreal Ziv-Aflibercept
Authors: de Oliveira Dias João Rafael , Badaró Emmerson , Novais Eduardo Amorim , Colicchio Daniel , Chiarantin Gabrielly Maria Denadai , Matioli Mariana Maurício , Verna Carina , Penha Fernando Marcondes , Barros Nilana Meza Tenório , Meyer Carsten H. , Farah Michel Eid , Rodrigues Eduardo Büchele
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the retinal safety of intravitreal (IVT) ziv-aflibercept in rabbits.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Eighteen rabbits were given an IVT injection of ziv-aflibercept (25 mg/mL) or aflibercept (40 mg/mL) and examined by funduscopy, electroretinography (ERG), optical coherence tomography (OCT), light microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Serum, aqueous, and vitreous were obtained afterward for osmolarity analysis. The effect of ziv-aflibercept on human retinal cultured cells (ARPE-19) was assessed by the MTT cell viability assay.

RESULTS:

All eyes showed normal funduscopy, OCT, and ERG findings at baseline and 24 hours or 7 days after the procedure. Median baseline serum, vitreous, and aqueous osmolarity remained unchanged. Histology and TEM showed no major anatomic signs of toxicity. No cytotoxic effect was observed in ARPE-19 cells exposed to ziv-aflibercept.

CONCLUSION:

IVT injection ziv-aflibercept at a concentration of 25 mg/mL proved to be safe for the rabbit retina.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:577–584.]
A Non-Permutation Flow Shop Manufacturing Cell Scheduling Problem with Part's Sequence Dependent Family Setup Times
Authors: Nikjo Behzad , Zarook Yaser
Published: November 2014

This article presents a new mathematical model for a dynamic flow shop manufacturing cell scheduling problem (DFMCSP) with agreeable job release date for each part family where family setup times are dependent on sequence of parts within families. It means this article considers non-permutation schedules for both sequence of families and sequence of parts within families. The objective is minimizing the Makespan (Cmax). Since, this problem belongs to NP-Hard class. Therefore, reaching an optimal solution in a reasonable computational time by using exact methods is extremely difficult. Thus, this article proposes meta-heuristic methods such as Genetic Algorithms (GA) and Tabu Search (TS). Finally, the computational results compare efficiency of the proposed algorithms under the performance measures.
The history of the Botanic Garden of Brera during the Restoration of the Austrian Empire and the early years of the Kingdom of Italy
Authors: Banfi Enrico , Visconti Agnese
Published: November 2014

Here, we reconstruct the history of the Botanic Garden of Brera of Milan from the Restoration of the Austrian Empire up to the early years of the Kingdom of Italy, when in 1863 the garden passed hands from the Liceo di Sant’Alessandro to the Istituto Tecnico Superiore of Milan. The reconstruction is based mostly on unpublished documentation preserved at the Archivio di Stato of Milan, the Biblioteca Braidense of Milan, the libraries of the Museo di Storia Naturale of Milan and the Archivio di Stato of Milan, the Archivio del Liceo Classico Statale Cesare Beccaria of Milan, the historical archives of the Politecnico of Milan, the Biblioteca di Biologia Vegetale, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Biologia dei Sistemi, University of Turin, the Autografoteca Botanica of the Botanical Garden of the University of Modena, and the library of the Botanical Garden of the University of Padova. Overall, the period was one of slow decline for the Botanic Garden of Brera, against which successive directors – namely, Antonio Bodei, Francesco Enrico Acerbi, Giuseppe Balsamo Crivelli, Vincenzo Masserotti and Giustino Arpesani – combatted in vain. In particular, Balsamo Crivelli fought with great passion for many years to keep the level of the Botanic Garden of Brera at a satisfactory level, but he did not achieve the desired aim. However, he complied a partial list of the garden’s plants, of which an updated version is presented here.
Cronaca sociale
Authors: Scienze Naturali Società Italiana Di
Published: November 2014

Cronaca sociale SISN
The decapod fauna (Axiidea, Anomura, Brachyura) from the Late Pleistocene of Trumbacà, Reggio Calabria (Calabria, southern Italy)
Authors: Garassino Alessandro , Pasini Giovanni , De Angeli Antonio , Hyzný Matúš
Published: November 2014

We report a rich faunal assemblage from the Tyrrhenian (Late Pleistocene) of Trumbacà, located in the southern area of Reggio Calabria (Calabria, southern Italy). The only brachyuran reported to date from this locality is Ranilia constricta (A. Milne Edwards, 1880) by Vazzana (2008). The studied specimens have been assigned, as follows: ?Corallianassa sp., Dardanus arrosor (Herbst, 1796), Dardanus substriatus (A. Milne Edwards, 1861), Paguristes cf. P. syrtensis de Saint Laurent 1970, Anapagurus sp., Ranilia constricta (A. Milne Edwards, 1880), Ranina propinqua Ristori, 1891, Ebalia cf. E. deshayesi Lucas, 1846, Ilia nucleus (Linnaeus, 1758), Medorippe lanata (Linnaeus, 1767), Calappa granulata (Linnaeus, 1758), Pisa armata (Latreille, 1803), Derilambrus cf. D. angulifrons (Latreille, 1825), Atelecyclus undecimdentatus (Herbst, 1783), Carcinus sp., Pilumnus hirtellus (Linnaeus, 1761), and Xantho cf. X. incisus (Leach, 1814). The studied assemblage enlarges our knowledge on the evolution of the Mediterranean decapod faunas.
The data reliability in ecological research: a proposal for a quick self-assessment tool
Authors: Battisti Corrado , Dodaro Giuseppe , Franco Daniel
Published: November 2014

Researchers and practitioners in basic and applied ecology provide to private or public clients assessment documents on various concern topics, such as the state of ecosystem components, the type of threats and their regime or the level of pressure and impact on biodiversity. These assessments, carried out by ecological field studies, may be strategic in addressing conservation research, plans and actions. Therefore, data provided in these documents should be characterized by a high reliability, that is, they should be based on standard methods and protocols, independence of data samples, absence of pseudo-replication, control of different levels of detectability among sampled individuals or species, high level of precision and accuracy etc. In this paper we propose a simple two-data-sheet format for a data reliability assessment of a professional study that may facilitate a rapid check of the more important requirements of a correct ecological field research. This format may be useful to students, technicians, professionals and researchers as well as public or private commissioning agencies (e.g. to evaluate the suitability of the study, possibly suggesting additions or modifications).
Short Communications
Authors: Authors The
Published: November 2014

Report of Maja cf. Maja squinado (herbst, 1788) (Crustacea, Brachyura, Majidae) from the Early Pliocene of Cheglio (varese, northern Italy)

 

In situ hermit crab (Anomura, Paguroidea, Diogenidae) from the Pliocene of Castelnuovo Berardengo, (siena, Tuscany, Italy)
Low Bone Mineral Density in Thalassemia Major: Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute Experience and a Brief Focus on Underlying Factors behind the Cause
Authors: Singh Kritanjali , Agarwal Sarita , Gupta Sushil
Published: November 2014

Thalassemia major is a genetic disorder and blood transfusion is critical for survival in these patients. Over the course of the past three decades, hyper transfusion therapy in these patients has shown has dramatically extended life expectancy and improved quality of life. Unfortunately, this type of therapy also increased the incidence of complications due to iron overload. The aim of this study was to assess bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with β-thalassemia major and to determine their biochemical and hormonal profiles that may affect BMD. A cross- sectional study was carried out in Sanjay Gandhi—PGIMS, a tertiary care hospital over period of 3 years on all β-thalassemia major patients above 7 years receiving regular transfusion. Patients with transfusion dependent anaemia other than β thalassemia major were excluded. Physical examination, laboratory tests and bone density measurements were performed. Then, the data were analyzed. The total number of children over 7 years of age with β-thalassemia major receiving regular blood transfusions during the study period was 150. Mean hemoglobin was 7.8 ± 0.6 g/dL and the mean serum ferritin level 5295 ± 2736 ng/mL. Short stature was seen in 54.7% boys and 28.7% of girls. Prevalence of lumbar osteoporosis and osteopenia were 42.5% and 37.5%. Femoral osteoporosis and osteopenia were present in 32.5% and 55% of the patients. Impaired puberty, hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus, hypoparathyroidism were observed in 26%, 18%, 7%, and 15%, of patients, respectively. Nearly 75% of patients had low bone mineral density. Bone mineral density was significantly associated with short stature (p = 0.002), hypogonadism (p = 0.006), hypoparathyroidism (p = 0.038), hypothyroidism (p = 0.044) and vitamin D deficiency (p < 0.001). High prevalence of complications among our thalassemics signifies the importance of more detailed studies along with therapeutic interventions.
Diligence in determining the appropriate form of stationarity
Authors: Heymans André , Van Heerden Chris , Van Greunen Jan , Van Vuuren Gary
Published: November 2014

Orientation: One of the most vexing problems of modelling time series data is determining the appropriate form of stationarity, as it can have a significant influence on the model’s explanatory properties, which makes interpreting the results problematic.Research purpose: This article challenged the assumption that most financial time series are first differenced stationary. The common difference first, ask questions later approach was revisited by taking a more systematic approach when analysing the statistical properties of financial time series data.Motivation for the study: Since Nelson and Plosser’s (1982) argued that many macroeconomic time series are difference stationary, many econometricians simply differenced data in order to achieve stationarity. However, the inherent properties of time series data have changed over the past 30 years. This necessitates a proper evaluation of the properties of data before deciding on the appropriate course of action, in order to avoid over-differencing which causes variables to lose their explanatory ability that leads to spurious results.Research approach, design and method: This article introduced a rigorous process that enables econometricians to determine the most appropriate form of stationarity, which is led by the underlying statistical properties of several financial and economic variables.Main findings: The results highlighted the importance of consulting the d parameter to makea more informed decision, rather than only assuming that the data are I(1). Evidence also suggested that the appropriate form of stationarity can vary, but emphasises the importance to consider a series to be fractionally differenced.Practical/managerial implications: Only when data are correctly classified and transformed accordingly will the data be neither under- nor over-differenced, thus enhancing the validity of the results generated by statistical models.Contribution/value-add: By utilising this rigorous process, econometricians will be able to generate more accurate out-of-sample forecasts, as already proven by Van Greunen, Heymans,Van Heerden and Van Vuuren (2014).
Duursaamheid en verandering in die offers van die ou en die nuwe verbond (Hebreërs 9)
Authors: Snyman Andries H.
Published: November 2014

Hebreërs 9 is deel van die skrywer se konklusie oor die Hoëpriesterskap van Christus in hoofstukke 9:1–10; 28. In sy argument gebruik die skrywer die hermeneutiese strategie van duursaamheid (kontinuïteit) en verandering (diskontinuïteit). In die eerste deel van die artikel word die onderskeiding vanuit ’n epistemologiese perspektief ondersoek en beskryf. Die tweede deel handel oor die wyse waarop die Hebreërskrywer dit gebruik om die offers van die ou en die nuwe verbond te vergelyk. Daar word aangetoon dat die offertema implisiet op die fundamentele verhouding tussen duursaamheid en verandering berus. Dit word gebruik om die unieke en volmaakte offer van Christus asook die implikasies daarvan vir die lesers te verduidelik. Die artikel word afgesluit deur die verwysing na ander temas in die brief wat ook aan die hand van hierdie hermeneutiese strategie ondersoek kan word. In die artikel word ook sekere retoriese tegnieke geïdentifiseer wat gebruik is om belangrike sake te beklemtoon en die brieflesers tot die skrywer se standpunt te oorreed.Constancy and change in the sacrifices of the old and new covenant (Hebrews 9). Hebrews 9 forms part of the author’s conclusion in chapters 9:1–10; 18, dealing with the High Priesthood of Christ. In arguing his case, the author uses the hermeneutical strategy of constancy (continuity)and change (discontinuity). In the first part of the article this distinction is investigated and described from an epistemological perspective. The second part deals with the way in which the author uses it in comparing the sacrifices under the old and new covenant respectively. It is indicated how the theme of sacrifice entails an implicit awareness of the foundationalrelationship between constancy and change in order to explain the uniqueness and perfection of Christ’s self-offering and its implications for the readers. The article is concluded by referring to other themes that could be investigated on the basis of the same hermeneutical strategy. The study also identifies certain rhetorical techniques used to highlight important issues and persuade the readers to the author’s point of view.
Calvarial tubercular osteomyelitic abscess in an elderly
Authors: Srinivas Bhavanam , Uppin Megha , Killi Sateesh , Subbalaxmi Malladi , Patil Madhusudan , Rajesh Alugolu
Published: November 2014

Tuberculous osteomyelitis of skull is very rare, even in areas where tuberculosis is endemic. We herein describe an elderly woman who was apparently immunocompetent and presented with left frontal scalp swelling and right cervical lymphadenopathy. CT scan showed irregular bony destruction of the frontal bone. MRI revealed a large extradural, multiseptate, solid-cystic lesion with peripheral enhancement. FNAC from the lesion showed granulomas with caseation suggestive of tuberculosis. The lesion was debrided and she was started on anti-tubercular therapy. Deterioration of liver parameters led to change from primary drugs to liver-friendly, anti-tubercular agents. Though anti-tubercular therapy is the mainstay of calvarial tuberculosis, surgical debridement reduces the bacterial burden and probably hastens recovery.
Correlations of polymorphisms in matrix metalloproteinase-1, -2, and -7 promoters to susceptibility to malignant gliomas
Authors: Kawal Priyanka , Chandra Anil , kumar Raj , Dhole Tapan , Ojha Balkrishna
Published: November 2014

Background: Oligodendrogliomas are infiltrative astrocytic tumors. They constitute about 1-5% of intracranial tumors. These have been graded into benign and malignant grades. The single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter regions of MMP genes may influence tumor development and progression. This study was done to explore the correlations of the promoter SNPs in MMP-1, MMP-2 and MMP-7 genes susceptibility in development and progression of oligodendrogliomas.
Objectives: We aimed to investigate the association of MMP1 (−1607A > G), MMP-2 (−1306 C/T) and MMP-7(−181A > G) gene polymorphism in oligodendrogliomas (grade I, II, III). Materials and Methods: In the present case control study, we enrolled a total of 30 cases of oligodendrogliomas (grade I to III) confirmed by histopathology and 30 healthy cases as control. Polymorphism for MMP-1 gene (−1607A > G), MMP-2 (−1306 C/T), MMP-7(−181A > G) were genotyped by restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results: Frequencies of MMP-1 (−1607A > G) genotypes and 2G alleles were significantly associated with the cases of oligodendrogliomas (30%) in relation to healthy controls (13%). [OR = 6.89; P = 0.02; 95%CI= (1.33-35.62)] and [OR = 2.66; P =0.01; 95% CI= (1.26-5.64)]. A significant association of MMP-2 (−1306C/T) polymorphism with oligodendroglioma (P = 0.54) was not found, suggesting that MMP-2 (−1306C/T) polymorphism is not associated with increased oligodendroglioma susceptibility. Frequencies of MMP-7(−181A > G) genotypes and 2G alleles were significantly associated with the cases of oligodendrogliomas (33.33%) in relation to healthy controls (13.33%). [OR = 5.65; P = 0.02; 95%CI= (1.26-25.36)] and [OR = 2.49; P =0.01; 95% CI= (1.17-5.27)]. Conclusions: MMP-1 (−1607 A > G), MMP-7(−181A > G) genotypes and 2G alleles were significantly associated with oligodendroglioma (grade I, II, III), but MMP-2 (−1306C/T) polymorphism is not associated with increased oligodendroglioma susceptibility.