bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic value of serum cytokeratin 19 fragments (Cyfra 21-1) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Xu Youtao , Xu Lei , Qiu Mantang , Wang Jie , Zhou Qing , Xu Lin , Wang Jian , Yin Rong
Published: April 2015

The role of serum CYFRA 21-1 level in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains to be defined. To re-evaluate the impact of serum CYFRA 21-1 in NSCLC survival, we performed this meta-analysis. Databases were searched to identify relevant studies reported after the publication of a meta-analysis in 2004. Totally, 31 studies with 6394 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled Hazard ratios (HRs) indicated that high CYFRA 21-1 level was associated with poor prognosis on overall survival (OS) in patients with NSCLC (HR = 1.60; 95%CI = 1.36–1.89; P < 0.001). The pooled HRs were 2.18 (95%CI = 1.70, 2.80; P = 0.347) for patients at stage I–IIIA and 1.47 (95%CI = 1.02, 2.11; P < 0.001) for stage IIIB–IV. When stratified by surgical intervention, pooled HRs were 1.94 (95%CI = 1.42–2.67; P < 0.001) for studies with surgery and 1.24 (95%CI = 0.79–1.95; P < 0.001) for studies without surgery. Significant associations were also found in the patients treated with EGFR-TKIs (HR = 1.83; 95%CI = 1.31–2.58; P = 0.011) and platinum-based regimen (HR = 1.53; 95%CI = 1.18–1.99; P = 0.001). Meta-analysis of CYFRA 21-1 related to PFS was performed and pooled HR was 1.41 (95%CI = 1.19–1.69; P < 0.001). Our results indicate that high level of serum CYFRA 21-1 is a negative prognostic indicator of patients with NSCLC.
Optimal percentage of inhibitory synapses in multi-task learning
Authors: Capano Vittorio , Herrmann Hans J. , de Arcangelis Lucilla
Published: April 2015

Performing more tasks in parallel is a typical feature of complex brains. These are characterized by the coexistence of excitatory and inhibitory synapses, whose percentage in mammals is measured to have a typical value of 20-30%. Here we investigate parallel learning of more Boolean rules in neuronal networks. We find that multi-task learning results from the alternation of learning and forgetting of the individual rules. Interestingly, a fraction of 30% inhibitory synapses optimizes the overall performance, carving a complex backbone supporting information transmission with a minimal shortest path length. We show that 30% inhibitory synapses is the percentage maximizing the learning performance since it guarantees, at the same time, the network excitability necessary to express the response and the variability required to confine the employment of resources.
Embedded ceria nanoparticles in gel improve electrophoretic separation: a preliminary demonstration
Authors: Zarei Mohammad , Ahmadzadeh Hossein , Goharshadi Elaheh K.
Published: April 2015

Ceria NP embedded PAGE could improve the analytical figures of merit by reducing Joule heating and lowering the band broadening.
Electronic structure and photoelectron spectra of Bnwith n = 26–29: an overview of structural characteristics and growth mechanism of boron clusters
Authors: Tai Truong Ba , Nguyen Minh Tho
Published: April 2015

In this report, the electronic structure and photoelectron spectra of boron clusters B26–29were theoretically investigated and an overview of the growth mechanism of boron clusters was shown.
Efficient catalysts for simultaneous dehydration of light alcohols in gas phase
Authors: Nguyen T. T. N. , Bellière-Baca V. , Rey P. , Millet J. M. M.
Published: April 2015

We report the simultaneous dehydration of light alcohols over rare earth phosphate catalysts.
SnO2-isolated Pt3Sn alloy on reduced graphene oxide: an efficient catalyst for selective hydrogenation of CO in unsaturated aldehydes
Authors: Shi Juanjuan , Zhang Mengyuan , Du Weichen , Ning Wensheng , Hou Zhaoyin
Published: April 2015

A pyramid shaped Pt3Sn/SnO2/rGO hybrid is highly active, selective and stable for the hydrogenation of the CO bond in unsaturated aldehydes to unsaturated alcohols under mild conditions.
Facile synthesis of graphene-CeO2 nanocomposites with enhanced electrochemical properties for supercapacitors
Authors: Saravanan T. , Shanmugam M. , Anandan P. , Azhagurajan M. , Pazhanivel K. , Arivanandhan M. , Hayakawa Y. , Jayavel R.
Published: April 2015

The electrochemical properties of CeO2G nanocomposites have been increased compared to pure ceria and the results suggest that it is a promising material for supercapacitor applications.
Nano-photocatalysts in microfluidics, energy conversion and environmental applications
Authors: Parmar Jemish , Jang Seungwook , Soler Lluís , Kim Dong-Pyo , Sánchez Samuel
Published: April 2015

This article focuses on recent developments in novel nano-photocatalyst materials to enhance photocatalytic activity. Recent reports on optofluidic systems, new synthesis of photocatalytic composite materials and motile photocatalysts are discussed.
White-light induced grafting of 3-MPA on the Si(111)–H surface for catalyzing Au nanoparticles’ in situ growth
Authors: Yang Li-Kun , Su Ya-Qiong , Wu Xiao-Ying , Zhang Da-Xiao , Chen Yan-Li , Yang Fang-Zu , Wu De-Yin , Tian Zhong-Qun
Published: April 2015

A novel, mild and effective method was designed for grafting of high-quality organic monolayers on a silicon surface to catalyze nanoparticles’ growth.
Multifunctional self-assembled composite colloids and their application to SERS detection
Authors: La Porta Andrea , Sánchez-Iglesias Ana , Altantzis Thomas , Bals Sara , Grzelczak Marek , Liz-Marzán Luis M.
Published: April 2015

Development of a novel hybrid colloidal system suitable for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy analysis.
Formation of hollow silica nanospheres by reverse microemulsion
Authors: Lin Cheng-Han , Chang Jen-Hsuan , Yeh Yi-Qi , Wu Si-Han , Liu Yi-Hsin , Mou Chung-Yuan
Published: April 2015

Formation of hollow silica nanospheres in a water-in-oil microemulsion.
Synthesis of non-fouling poly[N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide] brushes by photoinduced SET-LRP
Authors: Vorobii Mariia , de los Santos Pereira Andres , Pop-Georgievski Ognen , Kostina Nina Yu. , Rodriguez-Emmenegger Cesar , Percec Virgil
Published: April 2015

Surface-initiated photoinduced SET-LRP of N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide from an initiator-containing monolayer yields micropatterned brushes resistant to blood plasma fouling.
Entrapment of radioactive uranium from wastewater by using fungus-Fe3O4 bio-nanocomposites
Authors: Li La , Xu Mingze , Chubik Maksim , Chubik Marianna , Gromov Alexander , Wei Guodong , Han Wei
Published: April 2015

Magnetically separable adsorbents with high sorption capacity for nuclear wastewater treatment have been successfully synthesized on the basis of fungus-Fe3O4 nanoparticle bio-nanocomposites through a simple co-culture method.
Utilization of snail shells to synthesise hydroxyapatite nanorods for orthopedic applications
Authors: Kumar G. Suresh , Sathish L. , Govindan R. , Girija E. K.
Published: April 2015

Snail shells have been successfully utilized to synthesize HA nanorods via facile microwave irradiation method in rapid manner using EDTA as a chelating agent.
Donor–linker–acceptor (D–π–A) diazine chromophores with extended π-conjugated cores: synthesis, photophysical and second order nonlinear optical properties
Authors: Achelle Sylvain , Barsella Alberto , Caro Bertrand , Robin-le Guen Françoise
Published: April 2015

The synthesis, photophysical properties and second order non-linear optical response of a series of push–pull pyrimidine and quinoxaline chromophores with extended π-conjugated cores are reported.
Electro-active shape memory composites enhanced by flexible carbon nanotube/graphene aerogels
Authors: Liu Xuefa , Li Hua , Zeng Qingping , Zhang Yangyang , Kang Hongmei , Duan Huanan , Guo Yiping , Liu Hezhou
Published: April 2015

In this manuscript we present a novel, shape memory aerogel/epoxy composite structure composed of a reduced carbon nanotube and graphene compound aerogel as a scaffold and epoxy resin as a matrix.
Docetaxel-loaded PEO–PPO–PCL/TPGS mixed micelles for overcoming multidrug resistance and enhancing antitumor efficacy
Authors: Shi Chunhuan , Zhang Zhiqing , Wang Fang , Ji Xiaoqing , Zhao Zhongxi , Luan Yuxia
Published: April 2015

A schematic diagram of DTX-loaded PEO–PPO–PCL/TPGS mixed micelles in vivo for overcoming multidrug resistance and enhancing antitumor efficacy.
Enhanced Raman sensitivity and magnetic separation for urolithiasis detection using phosphonic acid-terminated Fe3O4 nanoclusters
Authors: Chiu Yi-Chun , Chen Po-An , Chang Po-Yang , Hsu Cheng-Yang , Tao Ching-Wei , Huang Chih-Chia , Chiang Huihua Kenny
Published: April 2015

We developed phosphonic acid-terminated and high magnetization Fe3O4 nanoclusters showing enhanced Raman sensitivity and magnetic separation for urolithiasis detection.
Multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles for enhanced intracellular drug transport
Authors: Tudisco C. , Cambria M. T. , Sinatra F. , Bertani F. , Alba A. , Giuffrida A. E. , Saccone S. , Fantechi E. , Innocenti C. , Sangregorio C. , Dalcanale E. , Condorelli G. G.
Published: April 2015

New multicomponent biocompatible MNPs are designed as intracellular vectors toin situload antitumor drugs and transport them inside cells.
Photoactivation of hypericin decreases the viability of RINm5F insulinoma cells through reduction in JNK/ERK phosphorylation and elevation of caspase-9/caspase-3 cleavage and Bax-to-Bcl-2 ratio
Authors: Yi Jingwen , Yang Xiaoguang , Zheng Lihua , Yang Guang , Sun Luguo , Bao Yongli , Wu Yin , Huang Yanxin , Yu Chunlei , Yang Shao-Nian , Li Yuxin
Published: April 2015

Insulinomas cause neuroglycopenic symptoms, permanent neurological damage and even death. Current available therapies cannot satisfactorily treat malignant insulinomas and some benign insulinomas. The promising phototherapeutic results and harmless side effects of hypericin in some cancer treatments prompted us to explore possible anti-growth activity of photoactivated hypericin against RINm5F insulinoma cells and underlying mechanisms. We now show that detectable and maximal internalization of hypericin in RINm5F insulinoma cells occurred in 20 and 60 min respectively. Hypericin was considerably associated with the plasma membrane, appreciably localized in the sub-plasma membrane region and substantially accumulated in the cytoplasm. Photoactivated hypericin decreased the viability of RINm5F insulinoma cells due to its anti-proliferative and apoptotic actions. Photoactivation of hypericin inhibited cell proliferation reflected by decreased expression of the proliferation marker Ki-67 and cell-cycle arrest in the G0/G1-phase. The anti-proliferative effect resulted from down-regulation of phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Photoactivated hypericin triggered apoptosis through activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9 and elevation of the Bax-to B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) ratio. The findings lay a solid foundation for implementation of hypericin-mediated photodynamic therapy in treatment of insulinomas.
Miniaturised dual‐band branch‐line coupler
Authors: Bekasiewicz A. , Koziel S.
Published: April 2015

A novel topology of a miniaturised dual‐band branch‐line coupler with a 3 dB power split is presented. The compact design is achieved by folding the transmission line sections into the interior of a circuit. The initial dimensions are obtained at the equivalent circuit level. Design closure is conducted at the electromagnetic‐simulation model level. The coupler operates on frequencies of 1 and 2 GHz, and features miniaturisation of 75% compared with the conventional structure. Experimental validation of the fabricated prototype is provided.
Nystrom method for the Muller boundary integral equations on a dielectric body of revolution: axially symmetric problem
Authors: Bulygin Vitaliy S. , Gandel Yuriy V. , Vukovic Ana , Benson Trevor M. , Sewell Phillip , Nosich Alexander I.
Published: April 2015

The authors consider the electromagnetic field in the presence of a dielectric body of revolution (BOR) in the axially symmetric case. The associated Muller boundary integral equation (IE) is reduced to a set of two IEs, further discretised using the Nystrom method. They derive a determinantal equation for the search of natural modes and present a new approach for the calculation of its roots. Results obtained are compared with known data for a dielectric sphere and a BOR generated by a super‐ellipse as an approximation of a finite circular cylinder. The resonant frequencies and the Q‐factors of the natural modes of a dielectric spheroid are studied.
Compact broadband modified triangular microstrip antennas
Authors: Deshmukh Amit Anand , Ray Kamla Prasan
Published: April 2015

Slot cut compact shorted 60° sectoral microstrip antenna and its complementary configuration are proposed. The slot optimises the spacing between higher order TM1/4,1 and fundamental TM1/4,0 modes to yield broadband response. On air substrate of thickness 0.105λ0, shorted 60° sectoral patch antenna yields a bandwidth (BW) (VSWR ≤ 2) of more than 600 MHz (821–1428 MHz, ∼54%), whereas its complementary configuration yields BW of more than 480 MHz (655–1142 MHz, >50%). The proposed antennas show a broadside radiation pattern with a gain of more than 3 dBi over the complete BW.
Design and realisation of a zero‐voltage transition pulse‐width modulation interleaved boost power factor correction converter
Authors: Wang Chien‐Ming , Lin Chang‐Hua , Lu Chien‐Min , Li Jyun‐Che
Published: April 2015

A zero‐voltage transition pulse‐width modulation (ZVT‐PWM) interleaved boost power factor correction (PFC) converter with an active snubber circuit is presented to achieve ripple current cancellation and soft‐switching for power switches. The proposed PFC converter adopts an active snubber circuit to realise ZVT for active power switches and zero‐current transition for power diodes. Thus, the switching losses of active power switches can be reduced and the reverse recovery losses of power diodes can be eliminated. It also uses an interleaved PWM control scheme to reduce the input ripple current and size of output capacitor. Moreover, it also adopts the average‐current‐control method to shape a close sinusoidal input current waveform, so that an input current waveform with low harmonic and low total harmonic distortion can be obtained. The operational principle and design consideration are discussed in detail. Finally, experimental results taken from a 1000 W prototype are presented to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed PFC converter.
Magnetic cantilever actuator with sharpened magnetic thin film ellipses
Authors: Huang Chen-Yu , Ger Tzong-Rong , Lai Mei-Feng , Chen We-Yun , Huang Hao-Ting , Chen Jiann-Yeu , Wang Pei-Jen , Wei Zung-Hang
Published: April 2015

A SiO2 cantilever covered by elliptical magnetic thin films was designed as an actuator. Under magnetic field, the elliptical magnetic film with sharp ends would exhibit single-domain structures and generate torque to push or pull the two arms of the cantilever. The cantilever could then stretch or compress and the displacement could be controlled by adjusting the magnitude and direction of the external magnetic field. The combination between micromagnetism of patterned films and actuator was successfully demonstrated. The magnetic actuator can be applied for future application in the biological field and would be valuable for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS).
Relative Yetter-Drinfeld modules and comodules over braided groups
Authors: Zhu Haixing
Published: April 2015

Let H1 be a quantum group and f : H1⟶H2 a Hopf algebra homomorphism. Assume that B is some braided group obtained by Majid’s transmutation process. We first show that there is a tensor equivalence between the category of comodules over the braided group B and that of relative Yetter-Drinfeld modules. Next, we prove that the Drinfeld centers of the two categories mentioned above are equivalent to the category of modules over some quantum double, namely, the category of ordinary Yetter-Drinfeld modules over some Radford’s biproduct Hopf algebra. Importantly, the above results not only hold for a finite dimensional quantum group but also for an infinite dimensional one.
Discrete Fourier series-based dual-sequence decomposition control of doubly-fed induction generator wind turbine under unbalanced grid conditions
Authors: Li Zhen , Wong Siu-Chung , Liu Xiangdong , Huang Yuehui
Published: April 2015

The doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) wind turbines (WTs) are widely installed as distributed generation utilities but their reliability is vulnerable to the grid disturbance, causing the second harmonics and associated low-frequency oscillations. This paper proposes a novel DFS-based dual-sequence decomposition control to mitigate the fatal oscillations and improve the DFIG's low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) capability under unbalanced grid conditions. The controller saturation phenomena under unbalanced conditions are first investigated. To overcome such saturation problem and its resultant oscillations, the positive and negative sequences are extracted by a fast sequence decomposition method using Discrete Fourier Series (DFS), irrespective of the operation being sub- or super-synchronous. A dual-loop control is integrated with the proposed sequence decomposition, using power balance for the minimization of the harmful torque pulsation and DC-link voltage fluctuation. In order to support the grid voltage during LVRT, an advanced reactive power control is further developed to capture more reactive power headroom by abandoning the active power generation with the mandatory absorption of the kinetic energy. Simulation results for a 9 MW DFIG WT system validate the effectiveness of the DFS-based dual-sequence decomposition design with the advanced reactive power control, demonstrating its mitigation of oscillations, and improvement of the LVRT capability to support the power grid.
Large magnetic anisotropy in strained Fe/Co multilayers on AuCu and the effect of carbon doping
Authors: Giannopoulos G. , Salikhov R. , Zingsem B. , Markou A. , Panagiotopoulos I. , Psycharis V. , Farle M. , Niarchos D.
Published: April 2015

A tetragonally distorted FeCo structure is obtained in Fe/Co multilayers epitaxially grown on Au50Cu50 buffer using MgO single crystal substrates as a result of the lattice mismatch between the buffer and the FeCo ferromagnetic layer. The presence of large magnetic anisotropy energy (MAE) of the order of 1 MJ/m3 has been confirmed by ferromagnetic resonance. Furthermore, the effect of carbon (C) doping to maintain the tetragonal distortion throughout the thickness of 3 nm FeCo has been investigated. Our study shows that FeCo alloys maintain large magnetic moment and possess high MAE properties that are required for designing permanent magnets.
Modeling changes in wind speed with height in Iran's cities and its impact on the energy production
Authors: Sedghi M. , Boroushaki M. , Hannani S. K.
Published: April 2015

The estimation of the wind resource at the hub height of a wind turbine is one of the primary goals of site assessment. Since in a majority of cities the wind speed is measured at lower heights, the power law model is applied to estimate the wind speed at higher heights. In this study, the wind data for 10 cities in Iran have been analyzed over a period of one year. The accuracy of the power law model to estimate the wind speed has been examined with variations of height and time during this year. The energy production of a wind turbine using the measured wind speeds and the speeds estimated by the power law model were compared. The measured data revealed that in some cities the wind speed rises with height 80% of the time, while it decreased with height in other cities. Results of the study showed that the power law model can estimate the wind speed in some cities with an acceptable error while it shows a high level of error in other cities.
Use of n-alkanes for determination of Kikuyu grass (Pennisetum clandestinum) intake in free-range broilers
Authors: Singh M. , Durali T. , Cowieson A. J.
Published: April 2015

N-alkanes, long-chained saturated hydrocarbons occurring in plant cuticles, were used for estimating grass intake in fast-growing, free-range broilers. A total of 1440 as hatched mixed sex Cobb 500 broilers were equally divided between one of four experimental treatments in a 2 by 2 factorial arrangement involving conventional (barn) or free-range (barn and range access) production systems and diets (crude protein: 21%, metabolisable energy: 13 MJ/K) with or without in-feed antibiotic (Zinc Bacitracin: Albac® G 150 antibiotic feed premix, Pfizer Australia Pty Ltd, Sydney, NSW, Australia). Day-old chicks were randomly allocated to 48 pens (12 replicates/treatment) with 30 birds in each pen. Chicks were assigned to treatment diets on Day 1 while free-range access was available to birds from Day 21 onwards. Alkane concentrations in litter were measured and compared with alkane profiles of the intake components (grass, diet pellets and woodchip). Correction for incomplete recovery followed by estimation using a non-negative least square procedure resulted in calculation of total grass intake from the range area. Kikuyu grass consumption was estimated to be 13.5–14.7% of total ‘as-fed’ intake, equating to 6.34–6.78 g of grass per bird per hour of range access in this study. Taking into account grass consumption, this resulted in a significant increase in feed intake by 8.7–8.9% (P < 0.01) and feed conversion ratio from 2.30 to 2.54 points (P < 0.01). It can be concluded that broilers reared under free-range conditions eat a substantial quantity of grass. However, the nutrient profile of grass is not complementary to the formulated ration and its consumption is likely to lead to an array of nutritional changes for the bird, thus affecting performance.
Consequences of Actively Managing a Small Bull Trout Population in a Fragmented Landscape
Authors: Al‐Chokhachy Robert , Moran Sean , McHugh Peter A. , Bernall Shana , Fredenberg Wade , DosSantos Joseph M.
Published: April 2015

Habitat fragmentation, which affects many native salmonid species, is one of the major factors contributing to the declines in distribution and abundance of Bull TroutSalvelinus confluentus. Increasingly, managers are considering options to maintain and enhance the persistence of isolated local populations through active management strategies. Understanding the ecological consequences of such actions is a necessary step in conservation planning. We used an individual‐based model to evaluate the consequences of an ongoing management program aimed at mitigating the anthropogenic fragmentation of the lower Clark Fork River in Montana. Under this program juvenile Bull Trout are trapped and transported from small, headwater source populations to Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho, for rearing, and adults are subsequently recaptured in their upstream migration and returned to the natal population for spawning. We examined one of these populations and integrated empirical estimates of demographic parameters to simulate different management scenarios where moderate (n= 4) and high (n= 8) numbers of age‐2, age‐3, or age‐4 Bull Trout were removed for transport with variable return rates under both demographic stochasticity and environmental perturbations. Our results indicated the risks from removal with no returns increased substantially when removal totals and age of Bull Trout removed from the simulated population increased. Specifically, removing eight age‐3 or age‐4 individuals resulted in 26% and 62% reductions in average adult population size, respectively, across simulations. We found the risks of transport were not likely alleviated with low (3%) or moderate (6%) return rates, and there were considerable risks of declines for the source population even when return rates were extremely high (>12%). Our simulations indicated little risk of declines for the source population with removals of age‐2 Bull Trout, and any risks were alleviated with low return rates. However, we found higher return rates were particularly beneficial in the presence of large, density‐independent perturbations.
Impact of Eradication Programs on the Temporal and Spatial Dynamics of Plum pox virus on Prunus spp. in Pennsylvania and Ontario, Canada
Authors: Gougherty A. V. , Nutter F. W.
Published: April 2015

The goals of this research were to quantify the impacts of the Pennsylvania and Ontario Plum pox virus (PPV) eradication programs on the spatial and temporal dynamics of PPV epidemics on Prunus spp. The incidence of PPV-positive trees detected over time decreased in both Pennsylvania (−ln 0.85 units per year) and Ontario (−ln 0.51 units per year); however, PPV incidence per year decreased only 60% as fast in Ontario as in Pennsylvania. Marked point pattern analysis revealed that PPV-positive Prunus blocks in Pennsylvania were clustered for distances of 0.7 to 4.3 km, whereas PPV-positive blocks in Ontario were clustered for distances of 1.0 to 25.0 km. Multiyear spatiotemporal analyses revealed that the locations of PPV-positive blocks detected were spatially dependent upon the locations of PPV-positive blocks detected during the previous year. In Pennsylvania, between 2002 and 2006, distances to 95% of newly detected PPV-positive blocks occurred within 10 and 20 km from the previous year’s PPV-positive blocks. In Ontario, 95% of new PPV-positive blocks occurred within 500 to 900 m from PPV-positive blocks detected the previous year. Until 2011, the PPV eradication policy for Prunus blocks in Ontario was triggered by a threshold incidence or PPV-positive tests for three consecutive years. Although the Ontario program was highly successful in reducing PPV incidence from 2001 to 2008, PPV was not eradicated. This study provides important quantitative information concerning the impact of PPV eradication programs on the spatial and temporal dynamics of PPV epidemics in Pennsylvania and Ontario. The analyses employed in this study may help to improve the effectiveness of present and future PPV eradication programs.
Quantified Incision Placement for Postseptal Approach Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty
Authors: Undavia Satyen , Briceño César A. , Massry Guy G.
Published: April 2015

Purpose:

This study quantifies the incision location in transconjunctival lower eyelid blepharoplasty to optimize postspetal (direct) access to the eyelid/orbital fat.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of patients undergoing transconjunctival blepharoplasty by one surgeon (GGM) from January 2013 to January 2014 was performed. Simultaneous globe retropulsion and lower eyelid inferior displacement was used to balloon the conjunctiva forward to maximally visualize the transconjunctival surface anatomical landmarks of importance. A caliper was used to measure the distance in millimeters from the inferior tarsus to the most superior projection of visible fat. The conjunctival incision was made 0.5 mm posterior to this measured distance. For each procedure it was noted whether the preseptal or postseptal plane was entered.

Results:

Sixty-six patients were assessed. Fifty patients were women, and the mean patient age was 54 years (range 36–71 years). The mean distance from the inferior tarsus to the visualized superior tip of fat was 6.03 mm (range 5–7 mm) and the mean incision placement was 6.53 mm (range 5.5–7.5 mm). The postseptal space (direct access to fat) was entered in 54 cases (82%). The inferior vascular arcade was identified in 23 cases (35%) cases. In this instance, the incision was placed below this landmark in 16 cases (70%). There were 5 cases (7.6%) of postoperative chemosis which all resolved within 2 months with conservative measures. There were no other complications related to the conjunctival incision.

Conclusion:

Placing the conjunctival incision for postseptal approach transconjunctival blepharoplasty 0.5 mm posterior to the most superior projection of clinically visible fat (with adjunctive globe retropulsion and lower eyelid infraplacement) accesses the postspetal space directly in 82% of cases. Previously suggested incision placements: between 2 and 5 mm below the tarsus, at the fornix, or at the inferior vascular arcade are subjective/anecdotal at best and without similar quantitative validation.
No regularity singularities exist at points of general relativistic shock wave interaction between shocks from different characteristic families
Authors: Reintjes Moritz , Temple Blake
Published: April 2015

We give a constructive proof that coordinate transformations exist which raise the regularity of the gravitational metric tensor from
C
0,1
to
C
1,1
in a neighbourhood of points of shock wave collision in general relativity. The proof applies to collisions between shock waves coming from different characteristic families, in spherically symmetric spacetimes. Our result here implies that spacetime is locally inertial and corrects an error in our earlier
Proc. R. Soc. A
publication, which led us to the false conclusion that such coordinate transformations, which smooth the metric to
C
1,1
, cannot exist. Thus, our result implies that regularity singularities (a type of mild singularity introduced in our
Proc. R. Soc. A
paper) do
not exist
at points of interacting shock waves from different families in spherically symmetric spacetimes. Our result generalizes Israel's celebrated 1966 paper to the case of such shock wave interactions but our proof strategy differs fundamentally from that used by Israel and is an extension of the strategy outlined in our original
Proc. R. Soc. A
publication. Whether regularity singularities exist in more complicated shock wave solutions of the Einstein–Euler equations remains open.
Experimental evidence for inherent Lévy search behaviour in foraging animals
Authors: Kölzsch Andrea , Alzate Adriana , Bartumeus Frederic , de Jager Monique , Weerman Ellen J. , Hengeveld Geerten M. , Naguib Marc , Nolet Bart A. , van de Koppel Johan
Published: April 2015

Recently, Lévy walks have been put forward as a new paradigm for animal search and many cases have been made for its presence in nature. However, it remains debated whether Lévy walks are an inherent behavioural strategy or emerge from the animal reacting to its habitat. Here, we demonstrate signatures of Lévy behaviour in the search movement of mud snails (Hydrobia ulvae) based on a novel, direct assessment of movement properties in an experimental set-up using different food distributions. Our experimental data uncovered clusters of small movement steps alternating with long moves independent of food encounter and landscape complexity. Moreover, size distributions of these clusters followed truncated power laws. These two findings are characteristic signatures of mechanisms underlying inherent Lévy-like movement. Thus, our study provides clear experimental evidence that such multi-scale movement is an inherent behaviour rather than resulting from the animal interacting with its environment.
Transcriptional Regulation of Zein Gene Expression in Maize through the Additive and Synergistic Action of opaque2, Prolamine-Box Binding Factor, and O2 Heterodimerizing Proteins
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong , Yang Jun , Wu Yongrui
Published: April 2015

Maize (Zea mays) zeins are some of the most abundant cereal seed storage proteins (SSPs). Their abundance influences kernel hardness but compromises its nutritional quality. Transcription factors regulating the expression of zein and other SSP genes in cereals are endosperm-specific and homologs of maize opaque2 (O2) and prolamine-box binding factor (PBF). This study demonstrates that the ubiquitously expressed transcription factors, O2 heterodimerizing proteins (OHPs), specifically regulate 27-kD γ-zein gene expression (through binding to an O2-like box in its promoter) and interact with PBF. The zein content of double mutants OhpRNAi;o2 and PbfRNAi;o2 and the triple mutant PbfRNAi;OhpRNAi;o2 is reduced by 83, 89, and 90%, respectively, compared with the wild type. The triple mutant developed the smallest zein protein bodies, which were merely one-tenth the wild type's size. Total protein levels in these mutants were maintained in a relatively constant range through proteome rebalancing. These data show that OHPs, O2, and PBF are master regulators of zein storage protein synthesis, acting in an additive and synergistic mode. The differential expression patterns of OHP and O2 genes may cause the slight differences in the timing of 27-kD γ-zein and 22-kD α-zein accumulation during protein body formation.
Key factors for the adoption of RFID in the logistics industry in Taiwan
Authors: Fu Hsin-Pin , Chang Tien-Hsiang , Lin Arthur , Du Zi-Jun , Hsu Kuei-Ying
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to comprehensively examine the factors that influence the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) in the logistics industry in Taiwan, and to objectively identify the key factors (KFs) for successful adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

– First, the factors were collected from a review of the literature, and then arranged in a three-layer hierarchical table. The fuzzy analytic hierarchical process (FAHP) was then used to determine the weighting of each factor, based on the opinions of various logistics professionals. The acceptable advantage concept of VlseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) was then used to identify the KFs.

Findings

– Nine important factors were identified from the total of eighteen factors, with a total accumulative weight of 64.68 percent, and from these, four KFs were determined: meeting the demands of clients, sharing real-time information, creating advantages in overall delivery, and reducing operational errors.

Practical implications

– The results show that the logistics industry in Taiwan should focus on the improvement of four KFs when adopting RFID. Eight practical implications of this study are also discussed in the paper.

Originality/value

– This study used multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) tools to obtain the importance (weighting) of each factor and to identify the KFs that influence the adoption of RFID. The research results can serve as a reference for the logistics industry, enabling firms to better allocate their resources when adopting RFID, and thus, to achieve a good outcome at lower cost and with greater efficiency.
A Social Democratic Future? Political and Institutional Hurdles in Scotland
Authors: Harvey Malcolm
Published: April 2015

The Nordic model has long been admired in Scotland, and has featured prominently in aspects of the Scottish independence referendum debate. This article explores the difficulties in instituting a similar system here, identifying two significant barriers: the institutional setting (the powers available to Scottish politicians) and the partisan nature of competition between the two parties that might be able to deliver upon such a commitment. It concludes that the prospects of moving towards a Nordic‐style social investment model are slight, given the political, institutional and attitudinal barriers in place.
Morphological Aspects of Oral Denticles in the Sharpnose SharkRhizoprionodon lalandii(Müller and Henle, 1839) (Elasmobranchii, Carcharhinidae)
Authors: Ciena A. P. , de S. Rangel B. , Bruno C. E. M. , Miglino M. A. , de Amorim A. F. , Rici R. E. G. , Watanabe I.
Published: April 2015

The oral denticles of some elasmobranchs are found on the surface of the oral cavity and are homologous to those on the body surface, being well developed, independent and non‐growing, with varying morphology and distribution depending on the species. The structural and three‐dimensional characteristics of oral denticles from the rostro‐ventral surface of the sharpnose sharkRhizoprionodon lalandiiwere described following imaging by both light and scanning electron microscopy. The light microscopy results showed that the triangular shape of the denticles consisted of a base and an apex. Picrosirius staining showed the arrangement of collagen fibres and oral denticles, and a predominance of type‐I collagen was found in both structures under polarized light. There was a broad homogeneous distribution of denticles on the ventral surface, forming a leaf‐like shape with the cusp facing the caudal region. Interlocking, hexagonal, geometric structures on its rostral side and ridges on the rostral side of the oral denticles were observed under increased magnification. We concluded that the denticle morphology found inR. lalandiidiffer of others analysed species, and the descriptions of these structures therefore provide important information for the classification of the species. In this species, the main functions can be assigned to help reduce hydrodynamic drag, particularly by this being a species that uses ram ventilation, and to protect the epithelium of the oropharynx of abrasion and parasites.
Interleukin-36α axis is modulated in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Ciccia F , Accardo-Palumbo A , Alessandro R , Alessandri C , Priori R , Guggino G , Raimondo S , Carubbi F , Valesini G , Giacomelli R , Rizzo A , Triolo G
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of the interleukin (IL)-36 axis in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Blood and minor labial salivary glands (MSG) biopsies were obtained from 35 pSS and 20 non-Sjögren's syndrome patients (nSS) patients. Serum IL-36α was assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). IL-36α, IL-36R, IL-36RA, IL-38, IL-22, IL-17, IL-23p19 and expression in MSGs was assessed by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR), and tissue IL-36α and IL-38 expression was also investigated by immunohistochemistry (IHC). αβ and γδ T cells and CD68+ cells isolated from MSGs were also studied by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy analysis. IL-36α was over-expressed significantly in the serum and in the salivary glands of pSS. Salivary gland IL-36α expression was correlated with the expression levels of IL-17, IL-22 and IL-23p19. IL-38, that acts as inhibitor of IL-36α, was also up-regulated in pSS. αβ+ CD3+ T cells and CD68+ cells were the major source of IL-36α in minor salivary glands of pSS. γδ T cells were not significantly expanded in the salivary glands of pSS but produced more IL-17, as their percentage correlated with the focus score. Higher expression of IL-36α and IL-36R was also demonstrated in γδ T cells isolated from pSS compared to controls. In this study we demonstrate that a significant increase in circulating and tissue levels of IL-36α occurs in pSS patients.
Teaching reading to children with neurofibromatosis type 1: a clinical trial with random assignment to different approaches
Authors: Barquero Laura A , Sefcik Angela M , Cutting Laurie E , Rimrodt Sheryl L
Published: April 2015

Aim

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disorder with a cognitive profile that includes visual–spatial perception deficits and a high incidence of reading disability. There is a paucity of information about how this cognitively complex population responds to mainstream reading interventions. The clinical trial goals were to determine whether children and adolescents with NF1 and reading deficits (NF+RD) benefit from mainstream remedial reading programs and whether responsiveness varies with differences in program‐related visual–spatial demands.

Method

Forty‐nine participants (28 males, 21 females; aged 8–14y) with either NF+RD (n=17, 11 males, six females) or idiopathic reading deficit (IRD) (n=32, 17 males, 15 females) were randomly assigned to intensive remedial teaching using one of two multisensory reading programs: one with greater kinesthetic demands and the other with greater visual–spatial demands. Two control groups – wait‐list IRD (n=14, 11 males, three females) and typically developing readers (n=26, 13 males, 13 females) – received no treatment. Repeated measures and multivariate ANOVA analyses compared each group's growth in reading achievement from pre‐ to post‐testing.

Results

Treated groups showed significant growth whereas untreated groups did not. Comparing treated groups, the IRD group responded equally well to both interventions, whereas the NF+RD group showed a better response to the more kinesthetic approach.

Interpretation

Results suggest that multisensory remedial reading teaching that emphasizes kinesthetic demands more than visual–spatial demands is suitable for students with NF+RD.
DNA structure and function
Authors: Travers Andrew , Muskhelishvili Georgi
Published: April 2015

The proposal of a double‐helical structure for DNA over 60 years ago provided an eminently satisfying explanation for the heritability of genetic information. But why is DNA, and not RNA, now the dominant biological information store? We argue that, in addition to its coding function, the ability of DNA, unlike RNA, to adopt a B‐DNA structure confers advantages both for information accessibility and for packaging. The information encoded by DNA is both digital – the precise base specifying, for example, amino acid sequences – and analogue. The latter determines the sequence‐dependent physicochemical properties of DNA, for example, its stiffness and susceptibility to strand separation. Most importantly, DNA chirality enables the formation of supercoiling under torsional stress. We review recent evidence suggesting that DNA supercoiling, particularly that generated by DNA translocases, is a major driver of gene regulation and patterns of chromosomal gene organization, and in its guise as a promoter of DNA packaging enables DNA to act as an energy store to facilitate the passage of translocating enzymes such as RNA polymerase.
Fasting Lipid and Lipoproteins Concentrations in Pregnant Women With a History of Migraine
Authors: Gelaye Bizu , Larrabure‐Torrealva Gloria T. , Qiu Chunfang , Luque‐Fernandez Miguel Angel , Peterlin B. Lee , Sanchez Sixto E. , Williams Michelle A.
Published: April 2015

Background

Migraine is associated with a number of cardiometabolic risk factors including abnormalities in lipid metabolism. However, little is known about these associations among pregnant migraineurs. We conducted the present study to evaluate the extent to which altered lipid profiles are associated with history of migraine among pregnant women.

Methods

A cohort of 1062 Peruvian women were interviewed at 24‐28 weeks of gestation. Migraine status was classified based on the International Classification of Headache Disorders‐II diagnostic criteria. Serum lipid concentrations were measured enzymatically using standardized assays. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) as measures of associations of migraine status with varying concentrations of lipids and lipoproteins during pregnancy.

Results

Approximately 18.5% of the study participants were identified as migraineurs (196 of 1062). Maternal serum total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides, and total cholesterol : HDL ratio were all statistically significantly elevated among pregnant migraineurs compared with pregnant non‐migraineurs. In multivariate adjusted models, pregnant women with migraine had higher odds of elevated total cholesterol, LDL, and total cholesterol : HDL ratio as compared with pregnant women without migraine. For instance, the AOR and 95% CI for successive quartiles of the total cholesterol associated with history of migraine were Q2 (219‐247 mg/dL): 1.05 (0.64‐1.70), Q3 (248‐281 mg/dL): 1.16 (0.72‐1.86), and Q4 (≥282 mg/dL): 1.87 (1.20‐2.91) with the lowest quartile (<219 mg/dL) as the referent group (P value for trend = .003). Obese women with elevated total cholesterol (≥282 mg/dL) were more likely to be migraineurs (OR = 3.71; 95% CI 1.58‐8.71) as compared with non‐obese women with lower total cholesterol (<219 mg/dL). Similar elevated odds of migraine were observed for obese women with elevated LDL cholesterol, elevated triglycerides and high total cholesterol : HDL ratio.

Conclusion

Pregnant migraineurs had elevated odds of dyslipidemia, particularly hypercholesterolemia, elevated LDL, and total cholesterol : HDL ratio as compared with pregnant non‐migraineurs. The observed associations were more pronounced among obese migraineurs. Our findings add to the accumulating evidence of adverse cardiometabolic risk profiles among migraineurs and extend these associations to pregnant women.
The Study of Headache in the 1950s in Latin America by Edgard Raffaelli Júnior (1930‐2006)
Authors: Silva‐Néto Raimundo P.
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to review the life of Edgard Raffaelli Júnior (1930‐2006) and to summarize his important contributions to the study of headaches. He was the first doctor to study headaches in Latin America, and for 50 years he advanced the understanding of headaches worldwide. He was born in São Paulo, Brazil, on March 2, 1930 and died on December 29, 2006. He founded the Brazilian Headache Society and was one of the organizers and founders of the International Headache Society. Following Raffaelli, many Latin American doctors have since been inspired to study headaches.
Pretreatment neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio as an independent predictor of survival in patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma: A multi‐institutional study
Authors: Taguchi Satoru , Nakagawa Tohru , Matsumoto Akihiko , Nagase Yasushi , Kawai Taketo , Tanaka Yoshinori , Yoshida Kanae , Yamamoto Sachi , Enomoto Yutaka , Nose Yorito , Sato Toshikazu , Ishikawa Akira , Uemura Yukari , Fujimura Tetsuya , Fukuhara Hiroshi , Kume Haruki , Homma Yukio
Published: April 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the prognostic significance of the pretreatment neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio in patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma who underwent salvage chemotherapy.

Methods

We reviewed 200 metastatic urothelial carcinoma patients who received salvage chemotherapy at our five affiliate institutions between 2003 and 2011. The associations of pretreatment clinicopathological factors, including neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, with cancer‐specific survival and overall survival from the start of chemotherapy were assessed. Cox proportional hazards model was used for multivariate analysis.

Results

A total of 15 cases with missing data were excluded. Among the remaining 185 patients, 157 died during follow up, with a median survival of 13.0 months. Multivariate analysis showed that the pretreatment neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio ≥3, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥2 and liver metastasis were independent poor prognostic factors, both for cancer‐specific survival and overall survival. A prognostic model predicting overall survival was constructed based on the number of these three variables (0, 1 and ≥ 2). The classified patients showed significantly different overall survival (each P < 0.0001, log–rank test), with Harrell's concordance index as high as 0.81.

Conclusions

Pretreatment neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio elevation was an independent poor prognostic factor for metastatic urothelial carcinoma undergoing salvage chemotherapy. Our newly constructed prognostic model including the pretreatment neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio proved to be an excellent discriminator of overall survival.