bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Transport Distance and Season on Some Defects of Fresh Hams Destined for DPO Production
Authors: Arduini Agnese , Redaelli Veronica , Luzi Fabio , Dall'Olio Stefania , Pace Vincenzo , Costa Leonardo
Published: August 2014

Pre-slaughter handling is related to defects in fresh hams that result in exclusion from the DPO Parma chain, including hematomas, lacerations, microhaemorrhages and veining. To determine the effects of transport conditions on hams, we collected data on defects in 901,990 trimmed fresh hams from heavy pigs provided by 3,650 batches from slaughterhouse during 2012 and 2013. For all batches, transport distance (1–276 km) season and year of delivery were considered. A decrease of all defect occurrences was observed for increasing distance up to 170 km (P < 0.05). Above 170 km, however, all defects frequencies increased (P < 0.05). Season showed an effect on the incidence of defects, with an increasing of hematomas and lacerations in winter and autumn respectively (P < 0.05) and the highest percentage of veining and hemorrhages in spring (P < 0.05). Summer had the lowest incidence of defects on fresh hams. We concluded that the incidence of the examined defects and the subsequent rejection for DPO Parma ham production is lower in fresh hams transported 38–170 km during the summer.
Differential Expression of 26S Proteasome Subunits and Functional Activity during Neonatal Development
Authors: Claud Erika , McDonald Julie , He Shu-Mei , Yu Yueyue , Duong Lily , Sun Jun , Petrof Elaine
Published: August 2014

Proteasomes regulate many essential cellular processes by degrading intracellular proteins. While aging is known to be associated with dysfunction of the proteasome, there are few reports detailing activity and function of proteasomes in the early stages of life. To elucidate the function and development of mammalian proteasomes, 26S proteasomes were affinity-purified from rat intestine, spleen and liver. The developmental expression of core, regulatory and immunoproteasome subunits was analyzed by immunoblotting and reverse-transcriptase PCR of mRNA subunits, and proteasome catalytic function was determined by fluorogenic enzymatic assays. The expression of core (β2, β5, α7 and β1) and regulatory (Rpt5) subunits was found to be present at low levels at birth and increased over time particularly at weaning. In contrast, while gradual developmental progression of proteasome structure was also seen with the immunoproteasome subunits (β1i, β5i, and β2i), these were not present at birth. Our studies demonstrate a developmental pattern to 26S proteasome activity and subunit expression, with low levels of core proteasome components and absence of immunoproteasomes at birth followed by increases at later developmental stages. This correlates with findings from other studies of a developmental hyporesponsiveness of the adaptive immune system to allow establishment of microbial colonization immediately after birth.
On the Equality Assumption of Latent and Sensible Heat Energy Transfer Coefficients of the Bowen Ratio Theory for Evapotranspiration Estimations: Another Look at the Potential Causes of Inequalities
Authors: Irmak Suat , Kilic Ayse , Chatterjee Sumantra
Published: August 2014

Evapotranspiration (ET) and sensible heat (H) flux play a critical role in climate change; micrometeorology; atmospheric investigations; and related studies. They are two of the driving variables in climate impact(s) and hydrologic balance dynamics. Therefore, their accurate estimate is important for more robust modeling of the aforementioned relationships. The Bowen ratio energy balance method of estimating ET and H diffusions depends on the assumption that the diffusivities of latent heat (KV) and sensible heat (KH) are always equal. This assumption is re-visited and analyzed for a subsurface drip-irrigated field in south central Nebraska. The inequality dynamics for subsurface drip-irrigated conditions have not been studied. Potential causes that lead KV to differ from KH and a rectification procedure for the errors introduced by the inequalities were investigated. Actual ET; H; and other surface energy flux parameters using an eddy covariance system and a Bowen Ratio Energy Balance System (located side by side) on an hourly basis were measured continuously for two consecutive years for a non-stressed and subsurface drip-irrigated maize canopy. Most of the differences between KV and KH appeared towards the higher values of KV and KH. Although it was observed that KV was predominantly higher than KH; there were considerable data points showing the opposite. In general; daily KV ranges from about 0.1 m2∙s−1 to 1.6 m2∙s−1; and KH ranges from about 0.05 m2∙s−1 to 1.1 m2∙s−1. The higher values for KV and KH appear around March and April; and around September and October. The lower values appear around mid to late December and around late June to early July. Hourly estimates of KV range between approximately 0 m2∙s−1 to 1.8 m2∙s−1 and that of KH ranges approximately between 0 m2∙s−1 to 1.7 m2∙s−1. The inequalities between KV and KH varied diurnally as well as seasonally. The inequalities were greater during the non-growing (dormant) seasons than those during the growing seasons. During the study period, KV was, in general, lesser than KH during morning hours and was greater during afternoon hours. The differences between KV and KH mainly occurred in the afternoon due to the greater values of sensible heat acting as a secondary source of energy to vaporize water. As a result; during the afternoon; the latent heat diffusion rate (KV) becomes greater than the sensible heat diffusion rate (KH). The adjustments (rectification) for the inequalities between eddy diffusivities is quite essential at least for sensible heat estimation, and can have important implications for application of the Bowen ratio method for estimation of diffusion fluxes of other gasses.
T Lymphocyte Antigen 4-Modified Dendritic Cell Therapy for Asthmatic Mice Guided by the CCR7 Chemokine Receptor
Authors: Chen Yan , Wang Yongming , Fu Zhou
Published: August 2014

The CD80/CD86-CD28 axis is a critical pathway for immuno-corrective therapy, and the cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA4) is a promising immunosuppressor targeting the CD80/CD86-CD28 axis; however, its use for asthma therapy needs further optimization. A human CTLA4 fused with the IgCγ Fc (CTLA4Ig) and mouse CC chemokine receptor type7 (CCR7) coding sequences were inserted into a recombinant adenovirus (rAdV) vector to generate rAdV-CTLA4Ig and rAdV-CCR7. The naive dendritic cells (DCs) were infected with these rAdVs to ensure CCR7 and CTLA4Ig expression. The therapeutic effects of modified DCs were evaluated. rAdV-CTLA4Ig and rAdV-CCR7 infected DCs improved all asthma symptoms. Inflammatory cell infiltration and cytokine analysis showed that rAdV-CTLA4Ig and rAdV-CCR7-modified DC therapy reduced the number of eosinophils and lymphocyte and neutrophil infiltration in the lung. Interestingly, assessment of the humoral immunity showed that the IL-4 and IFNγ levels of the rAdV-CTLA4Ig and rAdV-CCR7-modified DC-treated mice decreased significantly and did not reverse the Th1/Th2 balance. DCs expressing CCR7 displayed guidance ability for DC migration, primarily for DCs in the inflammatory lung. Additionally, the rAdVs caused an inflammatory response by inducing DC differentiation, inflammatory cell infiltration and changes in cytokines; however, mice transplanted with rAdV-green fluorescent protein (GFP)-infected DCs displayed no asthma manifestations. In conclusion, CTLA4Ig-modified DCs exhibited a therapeutic effect on asthma, and CCR7 may guide DC homing. The combination of these two molecules may be a model for precision-guided immunotherapy.
Massive Transformation in Titanium-Silver Alloys and Its Effect on Their Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Behavior
Authors: Han Mi-Kyung , Hwang Moon-Jin , Won Dae-Hee , Kim Yang-Soo , Song Ho-Jun , Park Yeong-Joon
Published: August 2014

In order to investigate the relationship between phase/microstructure and various properties of Ti–xAg alloys, a series of Ti–xAg alloys with Ag contents ranging from 5 to 20 wt% were prepared. The microstructures were characterized using X-ray diffractometry (XRD), optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). All of the Ti–xAg alloys showed a massive transformation from the β-Ti to αm phase, which has a different crystal structure from that of the matrix phase, but it has the same composition as the matrix α-Ti phase. As a result of solid-solution strengthening of α-Ti and massive transformation phase, the Ti–xAg showed better mechanical properties than the commercially pure titanium (cp-Ti). Electrochemical results showed that the Ti–xAg alloys exhibited improved corrosion resistance and oxidation resistance than cp-Ti.
Synthesis of the New Ring System Bispyrido[4',3':4,5]pyrrolo [1,2-a:1',2'-d]pyrazine and Its Deaza Analogue
Authors: Parrino Barbara , Spanò Virginia , Carbone Anna , Barraja Paola , Diana Patrizia , Cirrincione Girolamo , Montalbano Alessandra
Published: August 2014

Derivatives of the new ring systems bispyrido[4',3':4,5]pyrrolo[1,2-a:1',2'-d] pyrazine-6,13-dione and its deaza analogue pyrido[4'',3'':4',5']pyrrolo-[1',2':4,5]pyrazino [1,2-a]indole-6,13-dione were conveniently synthesized through a four-step sequence. Symmetrical derivatives of the former ring system were obtained through self condensation. On the other hand, condensation of 6-azaindole carboxylic acid with indole 2-carboxylic acid afforded the deaza analogue ring system. Derivatives of the title ring system were tested by the National Cancer Institute (Bethesda, MD, USA) and four of them exhibited modest activity against MCF7 (a breast cancer cell line) and/or UO-31 (a renal cancer cell line).
Theoretical Investigation on Nearsightedness of Finite Model and Molecular Systems Based on Linear Response Function Analysis
Authors: Mitsuta Yuki , Yamanaka Shusuke , Yamaguchi Kizashi , Okumura Mitsutaka , Nakamura Haruki
Published: August 2014

We examined nearsightedness of electronic matter (NEM) of finite systems on the basis of linear response function (LRF). From the computational results of a square-well model system, the behavior of responses obviously depends on the number of electrons (N): as N increases, LRF, δρ(r)/δv(r′), decays rapidly for the distance, |r−r′|. This exemplifies that the principle suggested by Kohn and Prodan holds even for finite systems: the cause of NEM is destructive interference among electron density amplitudes. In addition, we examined double-well model systems, which have low-lying degenerate levels. In this case, there are two types of LRF: the cases of the half-filled and of full-filled in low-lying degenerate levels. The response for the former is delocalized, while that of the later is localized. These behaviors of model systems are discussed in relation to the molecular systems’ counterparts, H2, He22+, and He2 systems. We also see that NEM holds for the dissociated limit of H2, of which the mechanism is similar to that of the insulating state of solids as suggested by Kohn. We also examined LRF of alanine tripeptide system as well as butane and butadiene molecules, showing that NEM of the polypeptide system is caused by sp3 junctions at Cα atoms that prevent propagation of amplitudes of LRF, which is critically different from that of NEM for finite and infinite homogeneous systems.
Bagging Treatment Influences Production of C6 Aldehydes and Biosynthesis-Related Gene Expression in Peach Fruit Skin
Authors: Shen Ji-Yuan , Wu Lei , Liu Hong-Ru , Zhang Bo , Yin Xue-Ren , Ge Yi-Qiang , Chen Kun-Song
Published: August 2014

Bagging is a useful method to improve fruit quality by altering its exposure to light, whereas its effect on fruit volatiles production is inconsistent, and the genes responsible for the observed changes remain unknown. In the present study, single-layer yellow paper bags were used to study the effects of bagging treatment on the formation of C6 aldehydes in peach fruit (Prunus persica L. Batsch, cv. Yulu) over two succeeding seasons. Higher concentrations of n-hexanal and (E)-2-hexenal, which are characteristic aroma volatiles of peach fruit, were induced by bagging treatment. After bagging treatment, peach fruit had significantly higher LOX and HPL enzyme activities, accompanying increased contents of C6 aldehydes. The gene expression data obtained through real-time PCR showed that no consistent significant differences in transcript levels of LOX genes were observed over the two seasons, but significantly up-regulated expression was found for PpHPL1 after bagging treatment In addition, bagging-treated fruit produced more (E)-2-hexenal and had higher expression levels of PpHPL1 during postharvest ripening at room temperature. The regulatory role of the LOX-HPL pathway on the biosynthesis of n-hexanal and (E)-2-hexenal in response to bagging treatment during peach fruit development is discussed in the text.
Assessment of Complex Masonry Structures with GPR Compared to Other Non-Destructive Testing Studies
Authors: Santos-Assunçao Sonia , Perez-Gracia Vega , Caselles Oriol , Clapes Jaume , Salinas Victor
Published: August 2014

Columns are one of the most usual supporting structures in a large number of cultural heritage buildings. However, it is difficult to obtain accurate information about their inner structure. Non-destructive testing (NDT) methodologies are usually applied, but results depend on the complexity of the column. Non-flat external surfaces and unknown and irregular internal materials complicate the interpretation of data. This work presents the study of one column by using ground-penetrating radar (GPR) combined with seismic tomography, under laboratory conditions, in order to obtain the maximum information about the structure. This column belongs to a “Modernista” building from Barcelona (Spain). These columns are built with irregular and fragmented clay bricks and mortar. The internal irregular and complex structure causes complicated 2D images, evidencing the existence of many different targets. However, 3D images provide valuable information about the presence and the state of an internal tube and show, in addition, that the column is made of uneven and broken bricks. GPR images present high correlation with seismic data and endoscopy observation carried out in situ. In conclusion, the final result of the study provides information and 3D images of damaged areas and inner structures. Comparing the different methods to the real structure of the column, the potential and limitations of GPR were evaluated.
Surface Plasmon Resonance Temperature Sensor Based on Photonic Crystal Fibers Randomly Filled with Silver Nanowires
Authors: Luan Nannan , Wang Ran , Lv Wenhua , Lu Ying , Yao Jianquan
Published: August 2014

We propose a temperature sensor design based on surface plasmon resonances (SPRs) supported by filling the holes of a six-hole photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with a silver nanowire. A liquid mixture (ethanol and chloroform) with a large thermo-optic coefficient is filled into the PCF holes as sensing medium. The filled silver nanowires can support resonance peaks and the peak will shift when temperature variations induce changes in the refractive indices of the mixture. By measuring the peak shift, the temperature change can be detected. The resonance peak is extremely sensitive to temperature because the refractive index of the filled mixture is close to that of the PCF material. Our numerical results indicate that a temperature sensitivity as high as 4 nm/K can be achieved and that the most sensitive range of the sensor can be tuned by changing the volume ratios of ethanol and chloroform. Moreover, the maximal sensitivity is relatively stable with random filled nanowires, which will be very convenient for the sensor fabrication.
Modified Anderson-Darling Test-Based Target Detector in Non-Homogenous Environments
Authors: Li Yang , Wei Yinsheng , Li Bingfei , Alterovitz Gil
Published: August 2014

A constant false alarm rate (CFAR) target detector in non-homogenous backgrounds is proposed. Based on K-sample Anderson-Darling (AD) tests, the method re-arranges the reference cells by merging homogenous sub-blocks surrounding the cell under test (CUT) into a new reference window to estimate the background statistics. Double partition test, clutter edge refinement and outlier elimination are used as an anti-clutter processor in the proposed Modified AD (MAD) detector. Simulation results show that the proposed MAD test based detector outperforms cell-averaging (CA) CFAR, greatest of (GO) CFAR, smallest of (SO) CFAR, order-statistic (OS) CFAR, variability index (VI) CFAR, and CUT inclusive (CI) CFAR in most non-homogenous situations.
Fast Field Calibration of MIMU Based on the Powell Algorithm
Authors: Ma Lin , Chen Wanwan , Li Bin , You Zheng , Chen Zhigang
Published: August 2014

The calibration of micro inertial measurement units is important in ensuring the precision of navigation systems, which are equipped with microelectromechanical system sensors that suffer from various errors. However, traditional calibration methods cannot meet the demand for fast field calibration. This paper presents a fast field calibration method based on the Powell algorithm. As the key points of this calibration, the norm of the accelerometer measurement vector is equal to the gravity magnitude, and the norm of the gyro measurement vector is equal to the rotational velocity inputs. To resolve the error parameters by judging the convergence of the nonlinear equations, the Powell algorithm is applied by establishing a mathematical error model of the novel calibration. All parameters can then be obtained in this manner. A comparison of the proposed method with the traditional calibration method through navigation tests shows the classic performance of the proposed calibration method. The proposed calibration method also saves more time compared with the traditional calibration method.
A Dynamic Attitude Measurement System Based on LINS
Authors: Li Hanzhou , Pan Quan , Wang Xiaoxu , Zhang Juanni , Li Jiang , Jiang Xiangjun
Published: August 2014

A dynamic attitude measurement system (DAMS) is developed based on a laser inertial navigation system (LINS). Three factors of the dynamic attitude measurement error using LINS are analyzed: dynamic error, time synchronization and phase lag. An optimal coning errors compensation algorithm is used to reduce coning errors, and two-axis wobbling verification experiments are presented in the paper. The tests indicate that the attitude accuracy is improved 2-fold by the algorithm. In order to decrease coning errors further, the attitude updating frequency is improved from 200 Hz to 2000 Hz. At the same time, a novel finite impulse response (FIR) filter with three notches is designed to filter the dither frequency of the ring laser gyro (RLG). The comparison tests suggest that the new filter is five times more effective than the old one. The paper indicates that phase-frequency characteristics of FIR filter and first-order holder of navigation computer constitute the main sources of phase lag in LINS. A formula to calculate the LINS attitude phase lag is introduced in the paper. The expressions of dynamic attitude errors induced by phase lag are derived. The paper proposes a novel synchronization mechanism that is able to simultaneously solve the problems of dynamic test synchronization and phase compensation. A single-axis turntable and a laser interferometer are applied to verify the synchronization mechanism. The experiments results show that the theoretically calculated values of phase lag and attitude error induced by phase lag can both match perfectly with testing data. The block diagram of DAMS and physical photos are presented in the paper. The final experiments demonstrate that the real-time attitude measurement accuracy of DAMS can reach up to 20″ (1σ) and the synchronization error is less than 0.2 ms on the condition of three axes wobbling for 10 min.
Unbalance Response Analysis and Experimental Validation of an Ultra High Speed Motor-Generator for Microturbine Generators Considering Balancing
Authors: Hong Do-Kwan , Joo Dae-Suk , Woo Byung-Chul , Koo Dae-Hyun , Ahn Chan-Woo
Published: August 2014

The objective of the present study was to deal with the rotordynamics of the rotor of an ultra-high speed PM type synchronous motor-generator for a 500 W rated micro gas turbine generator. This paper introduces dynamic analysis, and experiments on the motor-generator. The focus is placed on an analytical approach considering the mechanical dynamic problems. It is essential to deal with dynamic stability at ultra-high speeds. Unbalance response analysis is performed by calculating the unbalance with and without balancing using a balancing machine. Critical speed analysis is performed to determine the operating speed with sufficient separation margin. The unbalance response analysis is compared with the experimental results considering the balancing grade (ISO 1940-1) and predicted vibration displacement with and without balancing. Based on these results, a high-speed motor-generator was successfully developed.
Studies on the Halaf Pottery of the Kerküşti Höyük
Authors: Sarialtun Savaş , Erim-Özdoğan Aslı
Published: August 2014

Kerküşti Höyük, which was successively inhabited from the Early Halaf until almost to the end of the Middle Halaf is geographically located in the middle of the Halaf world (Fig. 1). Its location at the transition point of zones of different environmental settings (mountainous area and steppe zone) not were only suitable for different life styles (permanently and seasonally) and different subsistence strategies (agriculture and husbandry) but also enabled the people of Kerküşti to communicate with different regions. The general character of the architecture reflects short-termed seasonal occupations with round and rectangular structures. The existence of structures with high stone foundations and wattle-and-daub superstructures as well as the ones with well plastered earthen floors hints that the area might have been used both permanently and seasonally. Pottery of Kerküşti demonstrates all the features of the Halaf period and also reflects its relations with the other Halaf sites.
Hyb‐Seq: Combining target enrichment and genome skimming for plant phylogenomics
Authors: Weitemier Kevin , Straub Shannon C. K. , Cronn Richard C. , Fishbein Mark , Schmickl Roswitha , McDonnell Angela , Liston Aaron
Published: August 2014

• Premise of the study: Hyb‐Seq, the combination of target enrichment and genome skimming, allows simultaneous data collection for low‐copy nuclear genes and high‐copy genomic targets for plant systematics and evolution studies.

• Methods and Results: Genome and transcriptome assemblies for milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) were used to design enrichment probes for 3385 exons from 768 genes (>1.6 Mbp) followed by Illumina sequencing of enriched libraries. Hyb‐Seq of 12 individuals (10 Asclepias species and two related genera) resulted in at least partial assembly of 92.6% of exons and 99.7% of genes and an average assembly length >2 Mbp. Importantly, complete plastomes and nuclear ribosomal DNA cistrons were assembled using off‐target reads. Phylogenomic analyses demonstrated signal conflict between genomes.

• Conclusions: The Hyb‐Seq approach enables targeted sequencing of thousands of low‐copy nuclear exons and flanking regions, as well as genome skimming of high‐copy repeats and organellar genomes, to efficiently produce genome‐scale data sets for phylogenomics.
Cost-Effectiveness of First-Line Treatments for Patients with Kras Wild-Type Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ewara E.M. , Zaric G.S. , Welch S. , Sarma S.
Published: August 2014

Background: Combinations of chemotherapy regimens and monoclonal antibodies have been demonstrated to improve clinical outcomes in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (MCRC). Although these combination treatment strategies are safe and effective in first-line treatment for MCRC, little is known about their economic consequences and resource allocation implications. In the present study, we evaluated the cost-effectiveness of bevacizumab plus FOLFIRI, cetuximab plus FOLFIRI, and panitumumab plus folfiri for patients with KRAS wild-type MCRC. Methods: A Markov model simulated the lifetime patient outcomes and costs of each first-line treatment strategy and subsequent lines of treatment from the perspective of the health care payer in Ontario. The model was parameterized using data from the Ontario Cancer Registry, Ontario health administrative databases, and published randomized control trials. Patient outcomes were measured in quality-adjusted life years (QALYS), and costs were measured in monetary terms. Costs and outcomes were both discounted at 5% and expressed in 2012 Canadian dollars. Results: For MCRC patients with KRAS wild-type disease, the treatment strategy of bevacizumab plus FOLFIRI was found to dominate the other two first-line treatment strategies. Sensitivity analyses revealed that the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio values were sensitive to the effectiveness of treatment, the costs of bevacizumab and cetuximab, and health utility values. Conclusions: Evidence from Ontario showed that bevacizumab plus FOLFIRI is the cost-effective first-line treatment strategy for patients with KRAS wild-type MCRC. The panitumumab plus FOLFIRI and cetuximab plus FOLFIRI options were both dominated, but the cetuximab plus FOLFIRI strategy must be further investigated given that, in the sensitivity analyses, the cost-effectiveness of that strategy was found to be superior to that of bevacizumab plus FOLFIRI under certain ranges of parameter values.
Protective Skin Care Behaviors in Cancer Survivors
Authors: Lau S.C.M. , Chen L. , Cheung W.Y.
Published: August 2014

(1) Purpose: Research suggests that physicians neglect preventive care for cancer survivors. A survivor’s self-motivation with respect to preventive care is unknown. Using protective skin care as a proxy, our aims were to characterize preventive care in cancer survivors and to identify factors associated with appropriate prevention. (2) Methods: Using data from the 2009 U.S. Health Information National Trends Survey, we compared preventive skin care patterns in cancer survivors and non-cancer patients. Primary endpoints were the use of sunscreens, long-sleeved shirts, hats, and shade. (3) Results: We identified 179 early cancer survivors (10 years), and 5951 non-cancer patients. The use of sunscreens (60%), long-sleeved shirts (88%), hats (58%), and shade (68%) was suboptimal. Overall, cancer survivors were not more likely to adhere to preventive care (p = 0.89). A composite score showed a significant difference between the cancer survivor groups (p < 0.01) whereby intermediate survivors reported the best preventive practices. (4) Conclusions: A prior diagnosis of cancer does not appear to increase personal compliance with cancer prevention. Reasons for this poor engagement are not clear. Targeted strategies to increase self-motivation might improve preventive practices in cancer survivors.
Factors Associated with Publication of Randomized Phase iii Cancer Trials in Journals with a High Impact Factor
Authors: Tang P.A. , Pond G.R. , Welch S. , Chen E.X.
Published: August 2014

(1) Background: Impact factor (if) is often used as a measure of journal quality. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether trials with positive outcomes are more likely to be published in journals with higher ifs. (2) Methods: We reviewed 476 randomized phase iii cancer trials published in 13 journals between 1995 and 2005. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to investigate predictors of publication in journals with high ifs (compared with low and medium ifs). (3) Results: A positive outcome had the strongest association with publication in high-if journals [odds ratio (or): 4.13; 95% confidence interval (ci): 2.67 to 6.37; p < 0.001]. Other associated factors were a larger sample size (or: 1.06; 95% ci: 1.02 to 1.10; p = 0.001), intention-to-treat analysis (or: 2.53; 95% ci: 1.56 to 4.10; p < 0.001), North American authors (or for European authors: 0.36; 95% ci: 0.23 to 0.58; or for international authors: 0.41; 95% ci: 0.20 to 0.82; p < 0.001), adjuvant therapy trial (or: 2.58; 95% ci: 1.61 to 4.15; p < 0.001), shorter time to publication (or: 0.84; 95% ci: 0.77 to 0.92; p < 0.001), uncommon tumour type (or: 1.39; 95% ci: 0.90 to 2.13; p = 0.012), and hematologic malignancy (or: 3.15; 95% ci: 1.41 to 7.03; p = 0.012). (4) Conclusions: Cancer trials with positive outcomes are more likely to be published in journals with high ifs. Readers of medical literature should be aware of this “impact factor bias,” and investigators should be encouraged to submit reports of trials of high methodologic quality to journals with high ifs regardless of study outcomes.
The Influence of Chemotherapy-Induced Neurotoxicity on Psychological Distress and Sleep Sisturbance in Cancer Patients
Authors: Hong J.S. , Tian J. , Wu L.H.
Published: August 2014

(1) Purpose: In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (cipn) on psychological distress and sleep quality in cancer patients. (2) Methods: A total of 706 cancer patients were interviewed for the study. In the 4th week of treatment, patient cipn was measured using the Patient Neurotoxicity Questionnaire (pnq). The sleep quality and psychological distress of patients were measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (psqi), the Distress Thermometer (dt), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (hads). Multiple logistic regression was applied to determine the independent effects of cipn on psychological distress and sleep disturbance in the patients. (3) Results: These correlation coefficients were obtained: 0.387 (p < 0.0001) between the pnq total score and the dt score, 0.386 (p < 0.0001) between the pnq total score and the hads Depression score, 0.379 (p < 0.0001) between the pnq total score and the hads Anxiety score, and 0.399 (p < 0.0001) between the pnq total score and the psqi global score. The prevalence rates of distress, depression, anxiety, and poor sleep quality in the five pnq grades were statistically significantly different (p < 0.0001). After controlling for age, sex, education level, social supports, fatigue, disease stage, and tumour site, the pnq grades were found to be associated with depression (p < 0.0001), anxiety (p < 0.0001), and poor sleep quality (p < 0.0001). (4) Conclusions: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity negatively affects psychological distress and sleep quality in cancer patients treated with chemotherapy. High pnq grades were significantly associated with poor psychological status and sleep quality. Our results emphasize the importance of assessing peripheral neuropathies during chemotherapy and of adjusting treatment plans based on assessment results.
Computerized Prescriber Order Entry in the Outpatient Oncology Setting: From Evidence to Meaningful Use
Authors: Kukreti V. , Cosby R. , Cheung A. , Lankshear S. ,   the ST Computerized Prescriber Order Entry Guideline Development Group
Published: August 2014

Background: Chemotherapy is an effective treatment in the fight against many cancers. Medication errors in oncology can be particularly serious given the narrow therapeutic window of antineoplastic drugs and their high toxicities. Computerized prescriber order entry (cpoe) has consistently been shown to reduce medication errors and adverse drug events in various settings, but its use in the oncology setting has not been well established. To gain a better understanding of the meaningful use of cpoe systems in the outpatient chemotherapy setting, we undertook a systematic review of systemic therapy cpoe. Methods: A province-wide expert panel consisting of clinical experts, health information professionals, and specialists in human factors design provided guidance in the development of the research questions, search terms, databases, and inclusion criteria. The systematic review was undertaken by a core team consisting of a medical oncologist, nurse, pharmacist, and methodologist. The medline, embase, cinahl, and compendex databases were searched for relevant evidence. Results: The database searches resulted in 5642 hits, of which 9 met the inclusion criteria and were retained. In the oncology setting, cpoe systems generally reduce chemotherapy medication errors; however, specific types of errors increase with the use of cpoe. These systems affect practice both positively and negatively with respect to time, workload, and productivity. Conclusions: Despite the paucity of oncology-specific research, cpoe should be used in outpatient chemotherapy delivery to reduce chemotherapy-related medication errors. Adoption by clinicians will be enhanced by.
A Systematic Review of Active Treatment Options in Patients with Desmoid Tumours
Authors: Yao X. , Corbett T. , Gupta A.A. , Kandel R.A. , Verma S. , Werier J. , Ghert M.
Published: August 2014

Introduction: We conducted a systematic review to determine the optimal treatment options in patients with desmoid tumours who have declined observational management. Methods: A search was conducted of the medline and embase databases (1990 to September 2012), the Cochrane Library, and relevant guideline Web sites and conference materials. Results: One systematic review and forty-six studies met the preplanned study selection criteria; data from twenty-eight articles were extracted and analyzed. For local control, three studies reported a statistically significant difference in favour of surgery plus radiotherapy (rt) compared with surgery alone, and one study did not; two studies reported the lack of a statistical difference between surgery plus rt and rt alone in maintaining local control. Multivariate risk factors for local recurrence included positive surgical margins and young patient age. Single-agent imatinib led to a progression-free survival rate of 55% at 2 years and 58% at 3 years. Methotrexate plus vinblastine led to a progression-free survival rate of 67% at 10 years. Significant toxicities were reported for all treatment modalities, including surgical morbidity, and rt- and chemotherapy-related toxicities. Conclusions: In patients who have declined observational management, the local control rate was higher with surgery plus rt than with surgery alone. However, the additional rt-related complications should be considered in treatment decision-making. Surgery, rt, and systemic therapy are all reasonable treatment options for patients with desmoid tumours.
Role of Neoadjuvant Therapy in the Management of Pancreatic Cancer: Is the Era of Biomarker-Directed Therapy Here?
Authors: Tsvetkova E.V. , Asmis T.R.
Published: August 2014

Pancreatic cancer is the 4th leading cause of cancerrelated death. Complete surgical resection (CR0) is considered the only curative treatment. Most patients present with unresectable or borderline resectable disease. Many small phase i/ii trials have tried to address the role of neoadjuvant treatment using chemotherapy with or without chemoradiation in the management of locally advanced disease. However, many of them looked at the rate of CR0 resection and the feasibility of such treatment. A trend for improved overall survival has been observed in the group of patients with borderline resectable disease who completed neoadjuvant treatment. A large proportion of patients progress while on treatment, sparing them from unnecessary surgery. We searched the PubMed database (using the key words “pancreatic cancer,” or “pancreatic neoplasm,” or “pancreatic adenocarcinoma,” and “neoadjuvant treatment,” or “neoadjuvant chemotherapy,” or “neoadjuvant radiation therapy,” or “neoadjuvant chemoradiation,” or “adjuvant therapy” [all fields] and “clinical trial” or “study”) and abstracts presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology meetings on gastrointestinal cancers. Here, we review the most recent papers that present results on neoadjuvant therapy in pancreatic cancer. All but one report used overall survival as an endpoint. Unfortunately, there are no valid biomarkers predicting tumour progression or recurrence, and response to treatment than can help to guide therapeutic choices. Our recommendation is to consider neoadjuvant treatment in cases of borderline resectable disease. In patients with primary resectable tumours, surgery followed by adjuvant treatment and enrollment on adjuvant treatment studies would be appropriate.
Venous Thromboembolism in Cancer Patients: A Call for More Awareness
Authors: Delluc A. , Carrier M.
Published: August 2014

As elegantly reported by Drs. Shea–Budgell, Donnellan, and colleagues in the last issue of Current Oncology, venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a frequent clinical problem in cancer patients1,2.[...]
Nuevos datos sobre algunas especies de crisópidos de la Península Ibérica, islas Baleares e islas Canarias (Insecta, Neuroptera, Chrysopidae)
Authors: Monserrat Víctor J. , Acevedo Fernando , Pantaleoni Roberto A.
Published: August 2014

Se aportan nuevos datos de 41 especies de crisópidos de las Faunas Ibérica, Balear y Canaria. Se redescribe la morfología externa y genital de Chrysopa nigricostata Brauer, 1850 y se corrigen sus citas erróneas de España y Portugal, que mayoritariamente se asignan a Cunctochrysa cosmia (Navás, 1918). Se revalida la especie Chrysopa cosmia Navás, 1918 estatus válido restaurado (antes sinónima posterior de Chrysopa nigricostata) y se transfiere al género Cunctochrysa, proponiéndose una nueva combinación: Cunctochrysa cosmia (Navás, 1918) n. comb., y una nueva sinonimia: Cunctochrysa cosmia (Navás, 1918)=(Cunctochrysa bellifontensis Leraut, 1988) n. sin. Sobre el único ejemplar hasta ahora conocido de Cunctochrysa cosmia y el nuevo material ahora a ella asignado, se redescribe su morfología externa y genital, aportándose una clave de identificación para las tres especies europeas del género Cunctochrysa, anotándose nuevos datos para diferenciarlas tanto entre sí, como de otras especies europeas de similar morfología y coloración (Pseudomallada flavifrons, Chrysopa viridana y especialmente C. nigricostata). Por estas similitudes, se detectan algunos errores en la identificación de estas especies, se llama la atención sobre la posible confusión entre estas especies, y se sugiere revisar la autenticidad de sus sinonimias propuestas. Se establecen dos nuevas combinaciones: Pseudomallada subcostalis (McLachlan, 1882) n. comb. y Pseudomallada fortunatus (McLachlan, 1882) n. comb.
Sala polivalente, Schachen - Aarau – Suiza
Authors: Aeschbach E. , Felber W. , Kaufmann W. , Roshardt W.
Published: August 2014

Fue diseñada para que pudiera ser utilizada como gimnasio para colegios estatales, como pista cubierta para distintos deportes y como lugar para reuniones y exposiciones.
Con la construcción de acero se consiguió un edificio ligero y transparente que, a través de amplios ventanales, comunica directamente con la extensa pradera de los alrededores.
El pabellón es de forma rectangular y consta de:
SEMISOTANO, a nivel de la pista de deportes, que cuenta, bajo las gradas para espectadores, con: guardarropas, duchas, vestuarios, salón de entrenamientos, cocina, cuarto de calderas y almacenes para los aparatos de gimnasia.
PLANTA PARA EL PUBLICO, al mismo nivel de la entrada, totalmente acristalada.
CUBIERTA PLANA, formada por vigas de celosía metálicas que apoyan sobre doce pilares de acero. Está revestida, en su cara inferior, con láminas metálicas de perfil triangular, de colores claros, y en la superior, con chapas coloreadas de fibrocemento. En su interior se han incorporado las instalaciones de iluminación, aire acondicionado y calefacción.
En el centro del edificio hay claraboyas que permiten iluminación natural.
La cimentación es totalmente de hormigón armado, al igual que la parte baja del edificio —pista de deportes, gradas de espectadores y locales adyacentes—, en claro contraste con la parte superior, metálica en su totalidad, lo que permite los grandes vuelos de la cubierta y su ligereza característica.
Chalet en Aravaca - Madrid – España
Authors: Martín Artajo A.
Published: August 2014

El edificio presenta una fisonomía original, en medio de la amplia pradera que lo rodea. Cerramientos, vallas y cubiertas tienen la misma textura e idéntica blancura, con alguna nota verde proporcionada por los arbustos y los esbeltos cipreses.
La planta noble comprende: vestíbulo; salón-comedor-estar, tres dormitorios, con zona de baño y aseo muy completos; cocina; antecomedor; oficio; dormitorio, y aseo de servicio. En la planta alta están el estudio, juegos y terrazas. Hay, además, un amplio garaje, patios y piscina.
El tratamiento interior es de una gran sencillez, en líneas y colores, consiguiéndose una armonía y elegancia notables.
Torre TV Emley Moore - Gran Bretaña
Authors: Geoffrey Rooke, Ove Arup  Partners Ingenieros Consultores
Published: August 2014

Esta nueva torre fue construida para sustituir el primitivo mástil de acero, atirantado, que se desplomó, en el mismo lugar, el mes de mayo de 1969.
Se trata de la primera torre de este tipo que se levanta en el Reino Unido, y es, con sus 330 m de altura, la tercera del mundo.
En este artículo describimos detalles del proyecto y los métodos de construcción, que han permitido realizar y poner en servicio tan importante obra, dentro de los 16 meses programados.
Perforaciones de los grandes subterráneos y los métodos y máquinas modernos
Authors: Vié G.
Published: August 2014

La perforación de los grandes subterráneos, bien sea para trabajos de minas o de obras públicas, debe acometerse bajo unos patrones característicos en todas estas grandes obras, como son: la seguridad, resistencia, economía, etc.
Debido a la diferente técnica y utilización de las diversas máquinas existentes para tal fin, deben elegirse las más ventajosas en cada caso.
La experiencia de varios años de trabajo y ensayos nos dice que cuando el terreno es blando los mejores resultados los obtenemos con la perforadora rotativa; en caso contrario, conviene utilizar la perforadora roto-percutiva.
Últimamente se viene empleando, con éxito, el jumbo automático, el cual tiene una gran maniobrabilidad y elimina parte de los inconvenientes producidos por las perforadoras, tales como: ruido, elevado consumo de aire y blocajes frecuentes. Puede alimentarse con energía eléctrica, diésel o diésel-eléctrica. Su utilización es frecuente, sobre todo en la construcción de autopistas.
Aportación en torno a la valoración de la calidad resistente del hormigón de estructuras por medio de probetas testigo extraídas por corte
Authors: Ramírez Ortiz J. L. , Bárcena Díaz J. M.
Published: August 2014

Se estudian en este trabajo de investigación experimental dos problemas relacionados con el control de obra de hormigón endurecido:
1.º El del deterioro que experimenta la resistencia del testigo de hormigón debido al corte necesario para su extracción y el grado de representatividad y confianza proporcionados por los diferentes diámetros de los testigos.
2.º Verificar la pérdida de resistencia de elementos a los que se ha perforado, para la extracción de un testigo cilíndrico, procediendo después al relleno del agujero resultante.
Effect of four varieties of mulberry on biochemistry and nutritional physiology of mulberry pyralid, Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Oftadeh M. , Sendi J.J. , Zibaee A. , Valizadeh B.
Published: August 2014

The effects of four mulberry varieties (Kenmochi, Ichinose, Shin Ichinose, Mahalii) on nutritional indices and digestive proteolytic and amylolytic activities of Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) were determined at 24±1°C, 75±5% RH and a photoperiod of 16:8 L:D. Fifth instar larvae reared on Shin Ichinose showed the highest efficiency of conversion of digested food and efficiency of conversion of ingested food (3.82±0.16% and 3.11±0.07%, respectively). Approximate digestibility values of the fourth instar larvae were highest (95.23±0.73%) and lowest (91.77±1.45%) on Kenmochi and Shin Ichinose, respectively. The fifth instar larvae fed on Kenmochi had the highest consumption index (4.6±0.73) and lowest relative growth rate (0.03±0.10), respectively. Our results showed that the highest protease activity in optimal pH was on Malalii variety (0.97 U/mg) and the lowest was on Kenmochi (0.75 U/mg). In addition, the highest amylase activity in optimal pH was on Mahalii (0.17 U/mg) and lowest on Kenmochi (0.103 U/mg). Specific proteolytic analysis showed that larvae feeding on Mahalii had the highest activity of trypsin and elastase (2.30 and 2.13 U/mg, respectively). This research showed that plasticity in food utilization and enzyme activity is functionally relevant to host plant cultivars. The results of nutritional indices and activity of digestive enzymes indicated that Kenmochi was an unsuitable host for feeding of Glyphodes pyloalis.
Digestive proteolytic activity in Apodiphus amygdali Germar (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae): effect of endogenous inhibitors
Authors: Ramzi S. , Zibaee A.
Published: August 2014

The digestive proteolytic profile of Apodiphus amygdali was determined by using several substrates and specific inhibitors. Analysis of optimal pH and temperature showed the highest enzymatic activity at the pH range of 6-7 and temperature of 40°C when azocasein was used as a substrate. By using a negative control, the presence of several specific proteases were determined including tryspin-like, chymotrypsinlike, elastase, cathepsin B, cathepsin L, amino- and carboxypeptidases in the midgut content of A. amygdali, with the highest and the lowest activities of cathepsin L and carboxypeptidase, respectively. pH dependency of specific proteases revealed optimal pHs of 9, 8 and 9 for trypsin-, chymotrypsin-like, 6 for cathepsins and 5-6 for carboxy- and aminopeptidases, respectively. Specific inhibitors, including phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride, Na-p-tosyl-L-lysine chloromethyl ketone, Ntosyl- L-phenylalanine chloromethyl ketone, L-trans-epoxysuccinylleucylamido-(4-guanidino)-butane, phenanthroline and ethylendiamidetetraacetic acid, significantly decreased proteolytic activity, indicating the presence of different proteases in the midgut of A. amygdali. Extracted inhibitors from the midgut demonstrated significant inhibition of specific proteolytic activities of A. amygdali except for cathepsin B and aminopeptidase. The results indicated that determination of digestive proteolytic activity could be helpful to clarify digestion process in insects. Moreover, understanding the nature of digestive proteases might be used to develop several inhibitors for providing resistant crop varieties against pests.
Lobesia arzilae sp. n. and Willibaldiana culatrae sp. n. new species from Portugal (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Olethreutinae)
Authors: Trematerra P.
Published: August 2014

Lobesia arzilae sp. n. and Willibaldiana culatrae sp. n. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Olethreutinae) found in Portugal are described. The new species were collected respectively in Paúl de Arzila, a nature reserve located in central-west Portugal, close to the city of Coimbra and in Ilha da Culatra, which lies in the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, in the region of Faro, situated in the extreme south of Portugal. L. arzilae differs from other species of the genus Lobesia by male genitalia; socius is lateral, developed extending upwards; sacculus has a group of long spines apically dentate and is armed with strong dorsal thorn. W. culatrae differs from other species of the genus Willibaldiana by genitalia: in male valva is simple, in female cingulum is long and developed. Images of the holotypes and the genitalia are provided.