bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Why a National Peace Agreement Is Important for Myanmar
Authors: Wilson Trevor 
Published: January 2017

AbstractAs Myanmar readies itself for the second national conference on its ‘new’ peace process in February 2017, an update on outstanding issues with Myanmar's peace process may be timely. It is hardly surprising that, despite the months of preparation for the second Panglong Conference in August or September 2016, there was little or no change in the realities on the ground in Myanmar during the year: armed incidents between the Burmese military and armed ethnic groups continued in the days leading up to that conference, whether or not official ceasefires had been signed; armed groups that had sparred with each other regularly continued to do so; and in some cases, clashes occurred between groups that had not actually fought each other for many years.
Adaptive Control Scheme for Large‐Scale Interconnected Systems Described by Hammerstein Models
Authors: Elloumi Mourad , Kamoun Samira 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThis paper proposes an adaptive algorithm for the online control of discrete‐time large‐scale nonlinear systems, which reduces the noise effects acting on the system output (regulation problem) and allows the system output to keep track of a time‐varying trajectory (tracking problem). We consider a large‐scale nonlinear system that can be decomposed into single‐input single‐output (SISO) interconnected nonlinear subsystems with known structure variables (orders, delays) and unknown time‐varying parameters. Each interconnected subsystem is described by block‐oriented models, specifically a discrete‐time Hammerstein model. Parameter adaptation is performed using a recursive parametric estimation algorithm based on the adjustable model method and the least squares techniques. Simulation results of an interconnected petroleum process are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed control scheme.
Preventing Intimate Partner Violence: Towards a Framework for Supporting Effective Community Mobilisation
Authors: Mannell Jenevieve , Dadswell Anna 
Published: January 2017

AbstractCommunity mobilisation is a promising new strategy for preventing intimate partner violence (IPV) against women in low‐income settings. However, little is known about the contextual factors (e.g. socio‐economic, cultural, historical and political conditions) that enable the effective mobilisation of communities for IPV prevention. This paper draws from the theoretical work of Campbell and Cornish (2010) on the relationship between context and community action in addressing HIV/AIDS to propose a framework for situating community mobilisation for IPV prevention in its surrounding symbolic, material and relational contexts. The framework is refined using empirical data from a case study of a gender‐based violence (GBV) prevention intervention in Rwanda, including interviews with members of government‐mandated GBV Committees and focus group discussions with members of two village communities (n = 35). A thematic analysis identifies various contextual factors needed to support community mobilisation for IPV prevention, including: broad symbolic understandings of what constitutes IPV; capacity to economically support women who choose to leave violent relationships; mechanisms for addressing the silence that often surrounds IPV; support from policy and government authorities; and opportunities to effectively challenge inequitable policy and legal frameworks. This framework is useful for policy‐makers and programme planners interested in IPV prevention in and by communities. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of transcription factors divides retinal ganglion cells into distinct classes
Authors: Sweeney Neal T. , James Kiely N. , Nistorica Andreea , Lorig‐Roach Ryan M. , Feldheim David A. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractRetinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are tasked with transmitting all light information from the eye to the retinal recipient areas of the brain. RGCs can be classified into many different types by morphology, gene expression, axonal projections, and functional responses to different light stimuli. Ultimately, these classification systems should be unified into an all‐encompassing taxonomy. Toward that end, we show here that nearly all RGCs express either Islet‐2 (Isl2), Tbr2, or a combination of Satb1 and Satb2. We present gene expression data supporting the hypothesis that Satb1 and Satb2 are expressed in ON‐OFF direction‐selective (DS) RGCs, complementing our previous work demonstrating that RGCs that express Isl2 and Tbr2 are non‐DS and non‐image‐forming, respectively. Expression of these transcription factors emerges at distinct embryonic ages and only in postmitotic cells. Finally, we demonstrate that these transcription factor‐defined RGC classes are born throughout RGC genesis.
Sustainable Manufacture of a Valuable Fragrance Ingredient: Lipase‐Catalyzed Acylation of Vetiver Essential Oil and Chemoselectivity between Sesquiterpene Alcohols
Authors: Notar Francesco Irene , Filippi Jean‐Jacques , Antoniotti Sylvain 
Published: January 2017

AbstractA lipase‐catalyzed acylation reaction of crude Haitian vetiver essential oil was studied as an alternative to chemical processes for the manufacture of an industrially relevant fragrance ingredient. A competitive process that involved a recyclable immobilized lipase at 10 % w/w was developed and used up to the kilogram scale and quantitatively delivered the target product with good productivity (up to 90 g L−1 h−1). With the support of comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC×GC–MS), it was found that the enzymatic reaction exhibited a high chemoselectivity in favor of primary sesquiterpene alcohols. This finding and its consequence on the olfactory properties were correlated with sensory analysis.
The lignan (+)‐secoisolariciresinol extracted from flax hulls is an effective protectant of linseed oil and its emulsion against oxidative damage
Authors: Hano Christophe , Corbin Cyrielle , Drouet Samantha , Quéro Anthony , Rombaut Natacha , Savoire Raphaëlle , Molinié Roland , Thomasset Brigitte , Mesnard François , Lainé Eric 
Published: January 2017

Secoisolariciresinol (SECO) is a natural antioxidant lignan accumulated in large amounts in the seedcoat of flax and retained in the flaxseed cake residue during linseed oil pressing. Here SECO was extracted and purified from flaxseed cake and assayed for its ability to prevent oxidation of linseed oil and an o/w emulsion containing linseed oil. For this purpose, an accelerated storage (Schaal oven) test was performed and SECO effectiveness was compared to that of two antioxidants commonly used in food and cosmetic products: α‐tocopherol (α‐TOCO) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). In our hands, SECO addition, ranging from 50 to 500 μmole per kg oil, significantly decreased the production of both primary (conjugated dienes, CD) and secondary (thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances, TBARS) oxidation products. This study evidenced that SECO is an effective stabilizer of linseed oil and its o/w emulsion and this protective effect outperformed both the natural α‐TOCO and the synthetic BHA antioxidants. In particular, SECO was the most effective in the protection of the o/w emulsion against secondary oxidation products, which makes it a potential alternative preservative for oily products in foods and cosmetics.Practical applications: The present study could lead to applications in the food and cosmetic industries for the stabilization of o/w emulsions. Addition of SECO to linseed oil, already rich in ω‐3, could also result in a new functional food with synergistic beneficial actions on human health.Secoisolariciresinol, a natural antioxidant lignan accumulated in large amounts in the seedcoat of flax is here presented as an effective protectant of both bulk oil and o/w emulsion against secondary oxidation products, which makes it a potential alternative preservative for oily products in foods and cosmetics.
Second cancer incidence in primary mediastinal B‐cell lymphoma treated with methotrexate with leucovorin rescue, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, prednisone, and bleomycin regimen with or without rituximab and mediastinal radiotherapy: Results from a monoinstitutional cohort analysis of long‐term survivors
Authors: De Sanctis Vitaliana , Alfò Marco , Di Rocco Alice , Ansuinelli Michela , Russo Eleonora , Osti Mattia F. , Valeriani Maurizio , Minniti Giuseppe , Grapulin Lavinia , Musio Daniela , Bracci Stefano , Spagnoli Alessandra , Moleti Maria Luisa , Tombolini Vincenzo , Martelli Maurizio 
Published: January 2017

AbstractOur aim is to assess the incidence of second cancer in long‐time surviving primary mediastinal B‐cell lymphoma (PMBCL) patients treated with combined radiochemoimmunotherapy (standard methotrexate with leucovorin rescue, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, prednisone, and bleomycin with rituximab and mediastinal radiation therapy at a dose of 30 to 36 Gy). For this purpose, 92 points were evaluated. After a median overall survival of 137 months (range 76‐212), we recorded second cancer in 3 of 80 long‐surviving patients (3.75%) with cumulative incidence of 3.47% at 15 years and 11% at 17 years, with a 17‐year second cancer‐free survival of 82%. We observed 2 papillary thyroid cancers with a standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of 7.97 and an absolute excess risk (AER) of 17. 84 and 1 acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with an SIR of 66.53 and an AER of 10.05. No breast cancer occurred. Although we should take into account the limits of the proposed statistical analysis, combined modality treatment was related to a significant SIR and AER for thyroid cancer and acute myeloid leukemia.
Application of multi‐block analysis and mixture design with process variable for development of chocolate cake containing yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) and maca (Lepidium meyenii)
Authors: Tormena Marcela Marta Lazaretti , de Medeiros Luana Tabalipa , de Lima Patrícia Casarin , Possebon Gabriela , Fuchs Renata Hernandez Barros , Bona Evandro 
Published: January 2017

AbstractBACKGROUNDIn this study, a chocolate cake formulation was developed with partial substitution of wheat flour by yacon and maca flour. A simplex‐centroid design was applied to determine the proportions of the three flours, and the amount of water was included as a process variable at three distinct levels. According to the overall acceptability of the cakes, the tasters were separated into two groups using k‐means.RESULTSAfter segmentation, regression models were constructed for overall acceptability of each group; R2adjusted values of 92.5% for group 1 and 98.9% for group 2 were obtained. Using the sequential simplex method an optimized formulation was determined for group 1 (0.49 kgwheat kg−1total flour, 0.37 kgyacon kg−1total flour, 0.14 kgmaca kg−1total flour and 140.0 mL of water) and another for group 2 (0.35 kgwheat kg−1total flour, 0.65 kgyacon kg−1total flour and 120.0 mL of water). In addition to these formulations, a third formulation was proposed with a greater maca proportion (0.32 kgmaca kg−1total flour), which does not significantly alter the overall acceptability of both groups. The three optimized formulations and two control formulations were evaluated through free‐choice profiling. The data were evaluated using the multi‐block method common components and specific weights analysis (CCSWA).CONCLUSIONIt was observed that a greater proportion of maca intensified brownness and burnt aroma and taste, whereas a larger proportion of yacon produced a better appearance, softness, sweetness and chocolate flavor. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
SSB and the RecG DNA helicase: an intimate association to rescue a stalled replication fork
Authors: Bianco Piero R. , Lyubchenko Yuri L. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractIn E. coli, the regression of stalled DNA replication forks is catalyzed by the DNA helicase RecG. One means of gaining access to the fork is by binding to the single strand binding protein or SSB. This interaction occurs via the wedge domain of RecG and the intrinsically disordered linker (IDL) of SSB, in a manner similar to that of SH3 domains binding to PXXP motif‐containing ligands in eukaryotic cells. During loading, SSB remodels the wedge domain so that the helicase domains bind to the parental, duplex DNA, permitting the helicase to translocate using thermal energy. This translocation may be used to clear the fork of obstacles, prior to the initiation of fork regression.
Comparison of the 7th edition of the International Union Against Cancer and the Chinese 2008 staging systems for nasopharyngeal carcinoma and recommendations for future updates
Authors: Liang Zhongguo , Lei Hao , Chen Zetan , Li Ling , Qu Song , Su Fang , Zhao Wei , Pei Su , Pan Xinbin , Zhu Xiaodong 
Published: January 2017

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the 7th edition of the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) and the Chinese 2008 staging systems for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), and to provide evidence for further updates to these NPC staging systems.MethodsA retrospective analysis was carried out on 767 patients with newly diagnosed, pathologically confirmed non‐metastatic NPC who were treated with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy between 2006 and 2012. The prognostic value of the T category, N category, and clinical stage for the main survival outcomes of overall survival (OS), local relapse‐free survival and distant metastasis‐free survival were compared between the two staging systems. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to calculate survival rates, the log–rank test was used to compare survival rates, and the Cox model was used for the multivariate prognostic analysis.ResultsThe T categories of the Chinese 2008 staging system had a significantly better prognostic value for OS and local relapse‐free survival than those of the 7th edition of the UICC staging system. The N categories of both staging systems had a comparable prognostic value for OS and distant metastasis‐free survival. The clinical stages of the 7th edition of the UICC staging system had a significantly better prognostic value for OS than those of the Chinese 2008 staging system. Based on these analyses, the T categories, N categories, and clinical stages of our proposed staging system had a significantly better prognostic value compared with the original staging system.ConclusionsThe 7th edition of the UICC staging system and the Chinese 2008 staging system for NPC each has its own advantages with respect to prognostic prediction. The recommended staging system proposed in the present study could contribute to the next update of the current staging systems for NPC.
Development and testing of a grasper for NOTES powered by variable stiffness pneumatic actuation
Authors: Antonelli Michele Gabrio , Beomonte Zobel Pierluigi , Durante Francesco , Gaj Fabio 
Published: January 2017

AbstractBackgroundIn natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) the peritoneal cavity is reached through natural orifices (mouth, rectus and transvaginal duct), by means of little cuttings in the walls of hollow organs. Due to narrow spaces, NOTES needs robotic systems to assure operation/movement precision and patient safety. Variable stiffness actuation (VSA) assures both requirements.MethodsThe authors developed a grasper for NOTES, provided with VSA, to use as an end‐effector for snail robot devices. The present paper deals with basic concepts of VSA and describes the design and architecture of the grasper. Characterization and functional experiments were performed and results analysed.ResultsA finite element model developed for the actuator design was validated, performance grasper characteristic curves were obtained, VSA was validated, and the gripping capability of several objects was assessed.ConclusionThe grasper satisfies technical design specifications. On the basis of the results obtained, a control system can be developed to test grasper in a simulated surgery environment.
Levator ani muscle avulsion is a risk factor for expulsion within 1 year of vaginal pessary placed for pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Cheung R. Y. K. , Lee J. H. S. , Lee L. L. , Chung T. K. H. , Chan S. S. C. 
Published: January 2017

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate whether the presence of levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion is associated with expulsion within 1 year of a vaginal pessary placed for pelvic organ prolapse (POP).MethodsThis was a prospective observational study of consecutive women with symptomatic POP, who had not received treatment for the condition before the consultation and opted for vaginal pessary placement in our center. Volume acquisition was performed before pessary insertion and offline analysis of the 3D/4D transperineal ultrasound volume data was performed. LAM was assessed on maximum pelvic floor muscle contraction (PFMC) and hiatal dimensions were assessed at rest, on PFMC and on maximum Valsalva. Results were compared between women in whom the pessary was retained for 1 year and those in whom the pessary was expelled within 1 year.ResultsThe datasets of 255 women were analyzed including 147 (57.6%) women who had a vaginal pessary continuously in place over 1 year and 108 (42.4%) with pessary expulsion. Mean age was 63.2 (SD, 9.9) years and median parity was 3 (2–4). Eighteen (7.1%) had Stage I, 164 (64.3%) Stage II, 67 (26.3%) Stage III and six (2.4%) Stage IV POP. Women with vaginal pessary expulsion within 1 year had significantly larger hiatal dimensions at rest and on Valsalva, larger hiatal area during rest, PFMC and Valsalva and higher rate of LAM avulsion (53.7% vs 27.2%, P < 0.01) compared with women in whom the pessary was retained for 1 year. After controlling for potential confounders, LAM avulsion remained a risk factor (OR, 3.18, P < 0.01) of vaginal pessary expulsion within 1 year.ConclusionsWomen in whom a vaginal pessary was expelled within 1 year of placement for POP had a larger hiatus. Presence of LAM avulsion was associated with a three‐fold increase in the risk of expulsion of a vaginal pessary within 1 year. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Cavum septi pellucidi (CSP) ratio: a marker for partial agenesis of the fetal corpus callosum
Authors: Karl K. , Esser T. , Heling K. S. , Chaoui R. 
Published: January 2017

ABSTRACTObjectiveWhile complete agenesis of the corpus callosum is often suspected on fetal ultrasound due to absence of the cavum septi pellucidi (CSP), suspicion of partial agenesis of the corpus callosum (pACC) is a challenge since the CSP is almost always present. The aim of this study was to measure the length and width of the CSP and calculate the length‐to‐width ratio (CSP ratio), and compare these between fetuses with pACC and normal fetuses.MethodsIn this retrospective case–control study, the length and width of the CSP were measured in the axial plane of the fetal head, and the CSP length‐to‐width ratio calculated, in 323 normal fetuses and in 20 fetuses with pACC between 20 and 34 weeks' gestation. From the normal population we constructed reference ranges in relation to biparietal diameter (BPD). For all fetuses we calculated Z‐scores for the CSP ratio.ResultsIn the normal population, the length and width of the CSP increased with increasing BPD, while the CSP ratio decreased. The CSP was short (< 5th centile) in 85% (17/20) of fetuses with pACC and wide (> 95th centile) in 65% (13/20). The CSP ratio was small (< 5th centile) in 95% (19/20) of pACC fetuses, with 16/20 (80%) having a ratio below an empirical cut‐off of 1.5. Analysis of Z‐scores showed that fetuses with pACC had a significantly smaller CSP ratio (P < 0.0001) compared with the normal population.ConclusionsFetuses with a normal‐sized corpus callosum have a rectangular‐shaped CSP, with a CSP ratio > 1.5 in the second half of gestation. Most fetuses with pACC have an abnormally shaped, wide and short CSP, with a decreased CSP ratio. This simple ratio has the potential to identify fetuses at high risk for pACC. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Drug interaction between valproic acid and carbapenems in patients with epileptic seizures
Authors: Huang Chi‐Ren , Lin Chih‐Hsiang , Hsiao Shu‐Chen , Chen Nai‐Ching , Tsai Wan‐Chen , Chen Shang‐Der , Lu Yan‐Ting , Chuang Yao‐Chung 
Published: January 2017

AbstractValproic acid (VPA) is a widely used antiepileptic drug (AED). When carbapenems are concomitantly used with VPA, the serum levels of VPA may decrease and aggravate seizures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors associated with decreased serum VPA levels and clinical outcome in patients being treated with a combination of carbapenems and VPA. Fifty‐four adult patients who were treated with VPA for epileptic seizures concomitant with carbapenems for the treatment of infections were evaluated in this study. Serum VPA levels were measured before and during combination therapy with VPA and carbapenems, and the change in serum VPA levels was calculated. The risk factors related to the decrease in serum VPA levels and clinical outcomes were evaluated. Our results show that VPA concentrations were reduced to subtherapeutic levels after the introduction of carbapenems. The reduction in VPA concentrations was found within 24 hours of the start of treatment with carbapenems. VPA levels continuously declined while the combination of treatments was used, which aggravated epileptic seizures in 48% of the patients. Renal disease and enzyme‐inducing AEDs were risk factors that contributed to the severity of reduced serum VPA levels during combined treatment with carbapenems. This study suggests that clinicians need to be aware of the reduction of VPA concentrations to subtherapeutic levels and the aggravation of seizures while patients are treated with a combination of carbapenems and VPA.
Non-linear aerodynamic modelling of unmanned cropped delta configuration from experimental data
Authors: Saderla S. , Dhayalan R. , Ghosh A.K. 
Published: January 2017

ABSTRACTThe paper presents the aerodynamic characterization of a low-speed unmanned aerial vehicle, with cropped delta planform and rectangular cross section, at and around high angles-of-attack using flight test methods. Since the linear models used for identification from flight data at low and moderate angles of attack become unsuitable for accurate parameter estimation at high angles of attack, a non-linear aerodynamic model has to be considered. Therefore, the Kirchhoff's flow separation model was used to incorporate the non-linearity in the aerodynamic model in terms of flow separation point and stall characteristic parameters. The Maximum Likelihood (ML) and Neural Gauss-Newton (NGN) methods were used to perform the parameter estimation on one set of low angle-of-attack and one set of near-stall flight data. It is evident from the estimates that the NGN method, which does not involve solving equations of motion, performs on a par with the classical ML method. This may be attributed to the reason that NGN method uses a neural network which has been trained by performing point to point mapping of the measured flight data. This feature of NGN method enhances its application over a wider envelope of high angles of attack flight data.