bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual chemotaxis signaling pathways in Bacillus subtilis: a sigma D-dependent gene encodes a novel protein with both CheW and CheY homologous domains
Authors: Fredrick K L , Helmann J D
Published: November 2016

The alternative sigma factor, sigma D, activates the expression of genes required for chemotaxis and motility in Bacillus subtilis, including those encoding flagellin, hook-associated proteins, and the motor proteins. The sigma D protein is encoded in a large operon which also encodes the structural proteins for the basal body and homologs of the enteric CheW, CheY, CheA, and CheB chemotaxis proteins. We report the identification and molecular characterization of a novel chemotaxis gene, cheV. The predicted CheV gene product contains an amino-terminal CheW homologous domain linked to a response regulator domain of the CheY family, suggesting that either or both of these functions are duplicated. Transcription of cheV initiates from a sigma D-dependent promoter element both in vivo and in vitro, and expression of a cheV-lacZ fusion is completely dependent on sigD. Expression is repressed by nonpolar mutations in structural genes for the basal body, fliM or fliP, indicating that cheV belongs to class III in the B. subtilis flagellar hierarchy. The cheV locus is monocistronic and is located at 123 degrees on the B. subtilis genetic map near the previously defined cheX locus. A cheV mutant strain is motile but impaired in chemotaxis on swarm plates. Surprisingly, an insertion in the CheW homologous domain leads to a more severe defect than an insertion in the CheY homologous domain. The presence of dual pathways for chemotactic signal transduction is consistent with the residual signaling observed in previous studies of cheW mutants (D. W. Hanlon, L. Márques-Magaña, P. B. Carpenter, M. J. Chamberlin, and G. W. Ordal, J. Biol. Chem. 267:12055-12060, 1992).
Nucleotide and divalent cation specificity of in vitro iron-molybdenum cofactor synthesis
Authors: Chatterjee R , Allen R M , Shah V K , Ludden P W
Published: November 2016

The nucleotide and divalent cation requirements of the in vitro iron-molybdenum cofactor (FeMo-co) synthesis system have been compared with those of substrate reduction by nitrogenase. The FeMo-co synthesis system specifically requires ATP, whereas both 1,N6-etheno-ATP and 2'-deoxy-ATP function in place of ATP in substrate reduction (M. F. Weston, S. Kotake, and L. C. Davis, Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 225:809-817, 1983). Mn2+, Ca2+, and Fe2+ substitute for Mg2+ to various extents in in vitro FeMo-co synthesis, whereas Ca2+ is ineffective in substrate reduction by nitrogenase. The observed differences in the nucleotide and divalent cation specificities suggest a role(s) for the nucleotide and divalent cation in in vitro FeMo-co synthesis that is distinct from their role(s) in substrate reduction.
Use of lac gene fusions in the analysis of Acholeplasma upstream gene regulatory sequences
Authors: Knudtson K L , Minion F C
Published: November 2016

The objective of this study was to develop a means of identifying and analyzing mycoplasma gene regulatory elements. Analysis of Acholeplasma oculi ISM1499 transcriptional sequences was accomplished using a promoterless lacZ reporter gene and an integrative vector strategy. Seven promoter-containing fragments were identified, levels of beta-galactosidase were determined, and transcriptional start sites were mapped.
Overexpression of genes of an extreme thermophile Thermus thermophilus, in Escherichia coli cells
Authors: Ishida M , Oshima T
Published: November 2016

The 3-isopropylmalate dehydrogenase gene from an extreme thermophile, Thermus thermophilus, was not expressed in Escherichia coli unless a palindromic structure around the ribosome binding site was eliminated or a leader open reading frame was introduced into the upstream flanking region of the gene. This report suggests a way to increase the expression of this gene, with a high G+C content, in E. coli.
A synthesis of thermokarst lake water balance in high-latitude regions of North America from isotope tracers
Authors: MacDonald Lauren A. , Wolfe Brent B. , Turner Kevin W. , Anderson Lesleigh , Arp Christopher D. , Birks S. Jean , Bouchard Frédéric , Edwards Thomas W.D. , Farquharson Nicole , Hall Roland I. , McDonald Ian , Narancic Biljana , Ouimet Chantal , Pienitz Reinhard , Tondu Jana , White Hilary
Published: November 2016

Numerous studies utilizing remote sensing imagery and other methods have documented that thermokarst lakes are undergoing varied hydrological transitions in response to recent climate changes, from surface area expansion to drainage and evaporative desiccation. Here, we provide a synthesis of hydrological conditions for 376 lakes of mainly thermokarst origin across high-latitude North America. We assemble surface water isotope compositions measured during the past decade at five lake-rich landscapes including Arctic Coastal Plain (Alaska), Yukon Flats (Alaska), Old Crow Flats (Yukon), northwestern Hudson Bay Lowlands (Manitoba), and Nunavik (Quebec). These landscapes represent the broad range of thermokarst environments by spanning gradients in meteorological, permafrost, and vegetation conditions. An isotope framework was established based on flux-weighted long-term averages of meteorological conditions for each lake to quantify water balance metrics. The isotope composition of source water and evaporation-to-inflow ratio for each lake were determined, and the results demonstrated a substantial array of regional and subregional diversity of lake hydrological conditions. Controls on lake water balance and how these vary among the five landscapes and with differing environmental drivers are assessed. Findings reveal that lakes in the Hudson Bay Lowlands are most vulnerable to evaporative desiccation, whereas those in Nunavik are most resilient. However, we also identify the complexity in predicting hydrological responses of these thermokarst landscapes to future climate change.
Equity Capital, Internal Capital Markets, and Optimal Capital Structure in the US Property-Casualty Insurance Industry
Authors: Cummins J. David , Weiss Mary A.
Published: November 2016

This article reviews the most pertinent literature on the sources and uses of equity capital in the US property-casualty (P-C) insurance industry. P-C insurers serve risk management and risk-bearing functions in the economy. Insurers create diversified risk pools consisting of large numbers of exposures. However, even in the most highly diversified risk pools, uncertainty is not reduced to zero, and insurers must hold equity capital to credibly promise that claims will be paid even if losses are higher than expected. We begin with a financial overview of the industry. Insurers are well capitalized and financially stable, withstanding large catastrophic events and economic crises. Analysis of capital regulation further shows that regulation is not binding for the vast majority of insurers. We then review the theoretical and empirical evidence on the most important economic phenomena impinging on capital in P-C insurance: underwriting cycles, internal capital markets (ICMs), and optimal capital structure. P-C insurers are heavy users of ICMs, and insurer ICM transactions are efficient. According to available evidence, P-C insurers have optimal capital structures and behave according to the trade-off theory of capital structure.
Agency Dynamics in Corporate Finance
Authors: Lambrecht Bart M. , Myers Stewart C.
Published: November 2016

We describe a framework for analyzing the dynamics of investment, borrowing, and payout decisions by public corporations. We assume that managers act entirely in their own long-run interests, subject to a governance constraint that limits their rents. Risk-neutral managers invest to maximize value but wait too long to disinvest. Efficient disinvestment can be forced by the right level of debt or by takeovers. Risk-averse managers underinvest; they do not waste free cash flow, because the governance constraint is binding. They smooth rents and consequently payout, so that changes in borrowing become a shock absorber for volatility of operating income. We obtain the Lintner model of payout if risk-averse managers have a utility function with habit formation. We show how to adapt the dynamic framework to analyze several other issues, including the effects of asymmetric information. We show that Lintner-style payout smoothing can also arise when risk-neutral managers are better informed than outsiders.
Corynebacterium propinquum: A Rare Cause of Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis
Authors: Jangda Umair , Upadhyay Ankit , Bagheri Farshad , Patel Nilesh R. , Mendelson Robert I.
Published: November 2016

NondiphtheriaCorynebacteriumspecies are often dismissed as culture contaminants, but they have recently become increasingly recognized as pathologic organisms. We present the case of a 48-year-old male patient on chronic prednisone therapy for rheumatoid arthritis with a history of mitral valve replacement with prosthetic valve. He presented with fever, dizziness, dyspnea on exertion, intermittent chest pain, and palpitations. Transesophageal echocardiography revealed two medium-sized densities along the inner aspect of the sewing ring and one larger density along the atrial surface of the sewing ring consistent with vegetation. Two separate blood cultures grewCorynebacterium propinquum, which were sensitive to ceftriaxone but highly resistant to vancomycin and daptomycin. The patient completed a course of ceftriaxone and repeat TEE study and after 6 weeks demonstrated near complete resolution of the vegetation. To our knowledge, this case represents the first in the literature ofCorynebacterium propinquumcausing prosthetic valve endocarditis. The ability of these organisms to cause deep-seated systemic infections should be recognized, especially in immune-compromised patients.
The Role of the Single Incision Laparoscopic Approach in Liver and Pancreatic Resectional Surgery
Authors: Chatzizacharias Nikolaos A. , Dajani Khaled , Koong Jun Kit , Jah Asif
Published: November 2016

Introduction. Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) has gained increasing support over the last few years. The aim of this narrative review is to analyse the published evidence on the use and potential benefits of SILS in hepatic and pancreatic resectional surgery for benign and malignant pathology.Methods. Pubmed and Embase databases were searched using the search terms “single incision laparoscopic”, “single port laparoscopic”, “liver surgery”, and “pancreas surgery”.Results. Twenty relevant manuscripts for liver and 9 for pancreatic SILS resections were identified. With regard to liver surgery, despite the lack of comparative studies with other minimal invasive techniques, outcomes have been acceptable when certain limitations are taken into account. For pancreatic resections, when compared to the conventional laparoscopic approach, SILS produced comparable results with regard to intra- and postoperative parameters, including length of hospitalisation and complications. Similarly, the results were comparable to robotic pancreatectomies, with the exception of the longer operative time reported with the robotic approach.Discussion. Despite the limitations, the published evidence supports that SILS is safe and feasible for liver and pancreatic resections when performed by experienced teams in the tertiary setting. However, no substantial benefit has been identified yet, especially compared to other minimal invasive techniques.
PAHs Target Hematopoietic Linages in Bone Marrow through Cyp1b1 Primarily in Mesenchymal Stromal Cells but Not AhR: A Reconstituted In Vitro Model
Authors: Rondelli Catherine M. , Larsen Michele Campaigne , N’jai Alhaji , Czuprynski Charles J. , Jefcoate Colin R.
Published: November 2016

7,12‐Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) rapidly suppresses hematopoietic progenitors, measured as colony forming units (CFU), in mouse bone marrow (BM) leading to mature cell losses as replenishment fails. These losses are mediated by Cyp1b1, independent of the AhR, despite induction of Cyp1b1. BM mesenchymal progenitor cells (MPC) may mediate these responses since basal Cyp1b1 is minimally induced. PreB colony forming unit activity (PreB CFU) is lost within 24 hours in isolated BM cells (BMC) unless cocultured with cells derived from primary MPC (BMS2 line). The mouse embryonic OP9 line, which provides more efficient coculture support, shares similar induction‐resistant Cyp1b1 characteristics. This OP9 support is suppressed by DMBA, which is then prevented by Cyp1b1 inhibitors. OP9‐enriched medium partially sustains CFU activities but loses DMBA‐mediated suppression, consistent with mediation by OP9 Cyp1b1. PreB CFU activity in BMC from Cyp1b1‐ko mice has enhanced sensitivity to DMBA. BMC gene expression profiles identified cytokines and developmental factors that are substantially changed in Cyp1b1‐ko mice. DMBA had few effects in WT mice but systematically modified many clustered responses in Cyp1b1‐ko mice. Typical BMC AhR‐responsive genes were insensitive to Cyp1b1 deletion. TCDD replicated Cyp1b1 interventions, suggesting alternative AhR mediation. Cyp1b1 also diminishes oxidative stress, a key cause of stem cell instability.
An Efficient Imperialist Competitive Algorithm for Solving the QFD Decision Problem
Authors: Ji Xue , Gao Qi , Yin Fupeng , Guo Hengdong
Published: November 2016

It is an important QFD decision problem to determine the engineering characteristics and their corresponding actual fulfillment levels. With the increasing complexity of actual engineering problems, the corresponding QFD matrixes become much huger, and the time spent on analyzing these matrixes and making decisions will be unacceptable. In this paper, a solution for efficiently solving the QFD decision problem is proposed. The QFD decision problem is reformulated as a mixed integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model, which aims to maximize overall customer satisfaction with the consideration of the enterprises’ capability, cost, and resource constraints. And then an improved algorithm G-ICA, a combination of Imperialist Competitive Algorithm (ICA) and genetic algorithm (GA), is proposed to tackle this model. The G-ICA is compared with other mature algorithms by solving 7 numerical MINLP problems and 4 adapted QFD decision problems with different scales. The results verify a satisfied global optimization performance and time performance of the G-ICA. Meanwhile, the proposed algorithm’s better capabilities to guarantee decision-making accuracy and efficiency are also proved.
Enterococcus faeciumHDRsEf1 Protects the Intestinal Epithelium and Attenuates ETEC-Induced IL-8 Secretion in Enterocytes
Authors: Tian Zhongyuan , Liu Xiaofang , Dai Ran , Xiao Yuncai , Wang Xiliang , Bi Dingren , Shi Deshi
Published: November 2016

The probioticEnterococcus faeciumHDRsEf1 (Ef1) has been shown to have positive effects on piglet diarrhoea, but the mechanism has not yet been elucidated. In this study, using the IPEC-J2 cell line to mimic intestinal epithelial cells and enterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC) K88ac as a representative intestinal pathogen, the mechanism underlying Ef1 protection against an enteropathogen was investigated. The results demonstrated that Ef1 was effective in displacing K88ac from the IPEC-J2 cell layer. Moreover, Ef1 and its cell-free supernatant (S-Ef1) modulate IL-8 released by IPEC-J2 cells. Ef1 and its cell-free supernatant showed the potential to protect enterocytes from an acute inflammatory response. In addition, Ef1 and its cell-free supernatant increased the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) of the enterocyte monolayer, thus strengthening the intestinal barrier against ETEC. These results may contribute to the development of therapeutic interventions using Ef1 in intestinal disorders of piglets.
Preparation of Ecofriendly Formulations Containing Biologically Active Monoterpenes with Their Fumigant and Residual Toxicities against Adults ofCulex pipiens
Authors: Badawy Mohamed E. I. , Taktak Nehad E. M. , Awad Osama M. , Elfiki Souraya A. , Abou El-Ela Nadia E.
Published: November 2016

Different mixtures of monoterpenes (ketone, alcohol, and alkene) were loaded on paper discs and wax and their knockdown activities were evaluated againstCulex pipiensadults. Some individual monoterpenes were also evaluated by residual toxicity technique. Citronella oil as a reference was also loaded separately or in combination with monoterpenes on paper discs and wax. The ketone monoterpenes mixture (camphor, menthone, carvone, and fenchone) on paper discs was the most active (KT50= 17.20 min) followed by ketone monoterpenes with citronella oil (KT50= 20.79 min) and citronella oil alone (KT50= 28.72 min). Wax formulations proved that the ketone and alcohol (geraniol, thymol, and menthol) monoterpenes gave the most activity as knockdown (KT50= 31.79 and 43.39 min, resp.). Alcohol monoterpenes formulation recorded KT50= 43.39 min. Residual activity of tested individual monoterpenes reported that the menthol was more toxic than camphor and camphene. Generally, this study suggests that the monoterpenes have the properties, which make them used as eco-friendly compounds in the control programs ofCx. pipiensadult. The use of paper discs is more applicable than wax in the adulticidal formulations.
Using the Dual-Tree Complex Wavelet Transform for Improved Fabric Defect Detection
Authors: Vermaak Hermanus , Nsengiyumva Philibert , Luwes Nicolaas
Published: November 2016

The dual-tree complex wavelet transform (DTCWT) solves the problems of shift variance and low directional selectivity in two and higher dimensions found with the commonly used discrete wavelet transform (DWT). It has been proposed for applications such as texture classification and content-based image retrieval. In this paper, the performance of the dual-tree complex wavelet transform for fabric defect detection is evaluated. As experimental samples, the fabric images from TILDA, a textile texture database from the Workgroup on Texture Analysis of the German Research Council (DFG), are used. The mean energies of real and imaginary parts of complex wavelet coefficients taken separately are identified as effective features for the purpose of fabric defect detection. Then it is shown that the use of the dual-tree complex wavelet transform yields greater performance as compared to the undecimated wavelet transform (UDWT) with a detection rate of 4.5% to 15.8% higher depending on the fabric type.
A Multicenter Phase II Study of Twice-Weekly Bortezomib plus Rituximab in Patients with Relapsed Follicular Lymphoma: Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Bari Alessia , Marcheselli Raffaella , Marcheselli Luigi , Alvarez Isabel , Pozzi Samantha , Ferri Paola , Lazzaro Antonio , Fragasso Alberto , Neri Santo , Baldini Luca , Carella Angelo Michele , Angrilli Francesco , Guariglia Roberto , Buda Gabriele , Stelitano Caterina , Sacchi Stefano ,   on behalf of the Gruppo Italiano Studio Linfomi (GISL)
Published: November 2016

Single-agent bortezomib (B) has shown activity in heavily pretreated patients with relapsed/refractory indolent lymphoma. On the basis of these findings, we performed a phase II study of B combined with rituximab (R) in patients with relapsed follicular lymphoma (FL). Forty-five patients with fairly good prognostic profiles were enrolled from 2007 to 2011 and received a total of 6 cycles of the B+R combination. The endpoints were the overall response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), duration of remission (DoR), overall survival (OS), and toxicity evaluation. When considering all the enrolled patients the ORR was 64%. At 5 years, the estimated PFS, DoR, and OS were 34, 49, and 70%, respectively. After excluding the 7 R-naïve patients, the ORR was 58%, with a PFS of 19 months. The most common grade >2 toxicities were thrombocytopenia (18%), peripheral neuropathy (13%), and neutropenia (2%). Our study shows the feasibility, long-term efficacy, and excellent tolerability of the B+R combination. We are aware that our study has specific limitations, such as the small sample size consisting of patients with a relatively good prognostic profile. However, because FL patients will be treated with subsequent chemotherapy regimens, a well-tolerated and effective chemotherapy-free therapy could be considered an additional tool for long-term disease control.
When Clinical Trial Participation Is Not an Option in the Era of Personalized Medicine: The Case of Two Patients
Authors: Verschraegen Claire F. , Rehman Hibba , Pulluri Bhargavi , DeKay James , Barry Maura , Folefac Edmund , Dittus Kim , Holmes Chris , Sprague Julian , Ades Steve , Gibson Pam C.
Published: November 2016

The combination of personalized therapy with immunotherapy might lead to rapid complete remission in patients who are too sick to be eligible for clinical trials. We report 2 such extraordinary responders. A discussion on the use and purpose of clinical trials in this new era of very active anticancer drug discovery concludes that a paradigm shift is urgently needed.
Disseminated Histoplasmosis: A Challenging Differential Diagnostic Consideration for Suspected Malignant Lesions in the Digestive Tract
Authors: Doleschal Bernhard , Rödhammer Therese , Tsybrovskyy Oleksiy , Aichberger Karl J. , Lang Franz
Published: November 2016

Histoplasmosis is well characterized as an endemic fungal disease restricted to certain areas of the USA. In Middle Europe, most patients present with acute pulmonary symptoms after travelling to endemic areas. Here, we want to illustrate the case of a 67-year-old man who presented with persistent oral ulcers, hoarseness, dysphagia, diarrhea, and weight loss to our Department of Otorhinolaryngology in December 2014. He was a retired construction worker and had a history of soil-disruptive activities in Africa and Middle and South America during employment. A positron emission tomography-computed tomography scan revealed prominent hypermetabolic lesions in the cecum and the lung, pointing towards a malignant disease. Surprisingly, histological examination of colonic and oral biopsies revealed abundant intracellular fungal elements, highly suspicious of Histoplasma capsulatum. Diagnosis was finally confirmed by panfungal polymerase chain reaction. Upon treatment with liposomal amphotericin followed by itraconazole, the severely ill patient showed an impressive clinical response. This case describes a disseminated manifestation of H. capsulatum years after the first exposure in an otherwise immunocompetent patient descending from a nonendemic area.
Deep Vein Thrombosis as Initial Manifestation of Whipple Disease
Authors: Henriques Mônica Souza de Miranda , da Paz Alexandre Rolim , Gaertner Ana Beatriz Person , Melo Cibelle Ingrid Stephen , Filgueiras Priscyanne Lins , Jerome Rafaella Alencar
Published: November 2016

Introduction: Wipple disease (WD) is a rare chronic disease caused by the bacillus Tropheryma whipplei. Constitutive, rheumatologic, gastrointestinal, cardiac, cerebral, lymphatic, cutaneous, and ophthalmological signs are possible systemic symptoms. However, thrombotic manifestations are rarely described as “stroke-like syndrome” or arterial thrombosis. Diagnosis is based on clinical manifestations and pathological examination. Laboratory findings may include anemia, leukocytosis, and thrombocytosis. Objective: We report a case of venous thrombosis as initial manifestation of WD. Case Report: We describe the case of a 53-year-old male with iliofemoral vein thrombosis followed by intermittent diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal distension, and bloating. A mild malnutrition state with a weight loss of 13 kg, pallor (+/4 +), presence of lower-limb edema (+/4 +), and hypertympanic distended abdomen occurred. Laboratory tests on admission revealed anemia, positive inflammatory activity tests, and normal coagulation. Endoscopic examination showed villous edema with white dotted infiltrates in the second duodenal portion and intestinal lymphangiectasia in the terminal ileum. Pathological examination revealed numerous macrophages with positive periodic acid-Schiff inclusions. Venous Doppler ultrasound showed extensive deep thrombosis on the left lower limb and recanalization of the femoral vein in the right lower limb. The patient was treated with ceftriaxone and enoxaparin sodium, which led to an improvement of gastrointestinal and thrombosis symptoms. Comments: Hypercoagulability, endothelial damage, vasculitis, and blood stasis are present in T. whipplei infection, which are associated with the activation of inflammatory mechanisms as well as procoagulant and thromboembolic events. WD should be part of the differential diagnosis of diseases that cause venous thrombosis of unknown origin.
Successful Transanal Removal of a Rectal Foreign Body by Abdominal Compression under Endoscopic and X-Ray Fluoroscopic Observation: A Case Report
Authors: Mikami Hironobu , Ishimura Norihisa , Oka Akihiko , Moriyama Ichiro , Yuki Takafumi , Kawashima Kousaku , Sato Shuichi , Ishihara Shunji , Kinoshita Yoshikazu
Published: November 2016

We occasionally encounter patients with various types of rectal foreign bodies. When too large to grasp, transanal removal can be difficult. Here, we report a case of successful manual transanal removal of an 18 × 4 × 4 cm silicon rod without complications. A 50-year-old male came to the emergency department of our hospital 12 h after transanal insertion of a whole silicon rod. An abdominal examination showed no evidence of peritonitis, while X-ray and computed tomography findings revealed a large foreign body in the rectum, without any sign of perforation. Initially, we attempted removal using an endoscopy procedure with conventional endoscopic instruments, including a snare and grasp forceps, though we failed because of the large size. Next, we manually compressed the foreign body from the abdominal wall under endoscopic and X-ray fluoroscopic observation, and successfully removed it in a transanal manner without complications. Endoscopic and X-ray fluoroscopic assistance were helpful to guide the direction and angle of abdominal compression in this case.
Menstrual Factors and Stroke Incidence in Japanese Postmenopausal Women: The Ohasama Study
Authors: Murakami Keiko , Metoki Hirohito , Satoh Michihiro , Asayama Kei , Hosaka Miki , Matsuda Ayako , Inoue Ryusuke , Tsubota-Utsugi Megumi , Murakami Takahisa , Nomura Kyoko , Kikuya Masahiro , Imai Yutaka , Ohkubo Takayoshi
Published: November 2016

Background: The association between stroke and menstrual factors, for example, age at the time of menarche and age at the time of menopause, has not been well studied so far and the findings are inconsistent. We sought to examine this association in Japanese postmenopausal women. Methods: We followed 1,412 postmenopausal women aged ≥35 without a history of stroke in Ohasama, Japan. Baseline data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs of each menstrual factor for stroke incidence were calculated using the Cox proportional hazard model. Results: During a median follow-up of 12.8 years, 143 participants developed a stroke for the first time. Women aged ≤13 at the time of menarche had a significantly higher probability of encountering a stroke incidence in their lives compared with women aged 15 at the time of menarche (HR 1.83; 95% CI 1.04-3.22). The same was also true for cerebral infarction (HR 2.34; 95% CI 1.18-4.66). While early menopause was not significantly associated with stroke incidence, women aged ≤45 at the time of menopause faced a higher risk for cerebral infarction compared with women aged 50 years at the time of menopause (HR 3.25; 95% CI 1.54-6.86). Conclusions: Early menarche and its associated features might be a useful tool for future intervention strategies targeting modifiable factors that trigger menstrual onset.
Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Presenting with Purely Contralateral Ophthalmic Manifestations
Authors: Baartman Brandon J. , Bauer Andrew , Hui Ferdinand , Lystad Lisa , Singh Arun D.
Published: November 2016

Purpose: To report a case of dural arteriovenous fistula presenting with purely contralateral ophthalmic manifestations. Design: Interventional case report. Results: A 70-year-old male presenting with right-sided proptosis, injection, and choroidal effusions with a completely quiet fellow eye was found to have a left-sided dural arteriovenous fistula. After recognition on cerebral angiography, successful endovascular embolization was achieved, along with complete resolution of the contralateral ocular signs. Conclusions: Entirely unilateral ocular signs suggestive of an intracranial arteriovenous fistula may herald the presence of a contralateral vascular lesion.
FPGA Implementation of a Nakagami-m fading channel Simulator using Random Number Generator
Authors: Kumar B Santhosh , Ayyappa Swamy K.
Published: November 2016

By realizing the concept of implementation of the radio propagation channels on simulators is the eminent intention of this work. Even though prototyping software simulators are effortless to design we prefer hardware simulators as they endeavors distinguishable quickness, compared to earlier. Prior to this work fading channels like Gaussian, Rayleigh and Rician fading channel simulators were executed on hard ware.(i.e. FPGA) The significant target  of this attempt is to implement Nakagami-m  fading channel on hardware as they preserved for  unsubstantial consideration. While differentiating with other fading channels  Nakagami-m fading channel acquires wide spread applications, as its capability of providing  appropriate fit for practical fading data, as this is flexible through its size parameter ‘m’, over which representation of signal fading conditions that vary  from serious to modest, to normal  fading or no fading is accomplished . The proposed hardware simulator can hatches complex Nakagami variates after it was implemented on XilinxSpartan-xc3s500e-4fg320 FPGA. This is operated at 50MHz.
Private Cloud Storage Using OpenStack with Simple Network Architecture
Authors: Sagala Albert , Marlina Hutabarat Ruth
Published: November 2016

The development of cloud computing was highly developed and increasingly in demand by many parties. Cloud computing was very helpful to user to perform data storage without preparing own physical device. Cloud storage is a part of cloud computing where it can facilitate user to upload and download files, view file status. The main barrier to implement the private cloud was the difficulty in configuration of many components involved. These conditions minimize the implementation of the private cloud in many parties. In this research, we demonstrate cloud storage architecture simply by using only three nodes with OpenStack. The first node is the controller, the second node is object storage and the third is object storage. Elaborating the component that should be activated to implement the private cloud. The result of this research will help parties who want to build private cloud storage with simple network architecture using OpenStack Object Storage.
A New P System Based Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Hou Caiping , Liu Xiyu
Published: November 2016

For the “early convergence” or the “genetic drift” of the genetic algorithm, this paper proposes a new genetic algorithm based on P system. Based on the parallel mechanism of P system in membrane computing, we put forward the new P system based genetic algorithm (PBGA). So that we can improve the performance of GA.
A Study on MapReduce: Challenges and Trends
Authors: Arun Thanekar Sachin , Subrahmanyam K. , B. Bagwan A.
Published: November 2016

Nowadays we all are surrounded by Big data. The term ‘Big Data’ itself indicates huge volume, high velocity, variety and veracity i.e. uncertainty of data which gave rise to new difficulties and challenges. Big data generated may be structured data, Semi Structured data or unstructured data. For existing database and systems lot of difficulties are there to process, analyze, store and manage such a Big Data. The Big Data challenges are Protection, Curation, Capture, Analysis, Searching, Visualization, Storage, Transfer and sharing. Map Reduce is a framework using which we can write applications to process huge amount of data, in parallel, on large clusters of commodity hardware in a reliable manner. Lot of efforts have been put by different researchers to make it simple, easy, effective and efficient. In our survey paper we emphasized on the working of Map Reduce, challenges, opportunities and recent trends so that researchers can think on further improvement. 
Hybridation of Labeling Schemes for Efficient Dynamic Updates
Authors: Cheng Haw Su , Subramaniam Samini , Siang Lim Wei , Fang Chua Fang
Published: November 2016

With XML as the leading standard for data representation over the Web, it is crucial to store and query XML data. However, relational databases are the dominant database technology in most organizations. Thus, replacing relational database with a pure XML database is not a wise choice. One most prominent solution is to map XML into relational database. This paper introduces a robust labeling scheme which is a hybrid labeling scheme combining the beauty features of extended range and ORDPATH schemes to supports dynamic updates. In addition, we also proposed a mapping scheme based on the hybrid labeling scheme. Our proposed approach is evaluated in terms of (i) loading time, (ii) storage size, (iii) query retrieval time, and (iv) dynamic updates time, as compared to ORDPATH and ME schemes. The experimental evaluation results shows that our proposed approach is scalable to support huge datasets and dynamic updates.
Insulating Material Erosion in Atmospheric Non-Thermal Plasma Jet Device
Authors: M. Ahmed K. , M. Allam T. , A. Abouelatta M. , A. Ward S. , A. Lashin A. , M. Soliman H.
Published: November 2016

This paper reports on the selection of insulating material types in a developed atmospheric-pressure non-thermal plasma jet (ANPJ-II) device which was operated previously in our laboratory based on the minimum erosion area of the insulator’s nozzle. Three identical insulator groups used in our experiment include; Teflon insulator material with different thicknesses of 1.5 mm and 2 mm respectively, and Ceramic insulating material with thickness of 2 mm. ANPJ-II device is operated with each of the three insulator groups. These insulators are operated and analyzed with different operation times for compressed Air or Nitrogen gas with a flow rate of 12 L/min and input voltage of 6 kV.  The erosion area of these insulator materials is measured as a function of the operation time. The Ceramic insulator was found to have the minimum erosion area. Also, the temperature of both the cathode and the insulating material (Teflon or Ceramic) are measured to study the effect of operation time and the gas type on the device components.
A Novel Generalized Topology for Multi-level Inverter with Switched Series-Parallel DC Sources
Authors: Sridhar S. , Satish Kumar P. , Susham M.
Published: November 2016

This paper presents a novel topology of Single-phase multilevel inverter for low and high power applications. It consists of polarity (Level) generation circuit and H Bridge to generate both positive and negative polarities. The proposed topology can produce more output voltage levels by switching dc voltage sources in series and parallel. The proposed topology utilizes minimum number of power electronic devices which leads to the reduction of cost, size, and weight low and consumes low power which improves the efficiency. Switching pulses are generated using Phase disposition (PD) pulse width modulation technique. Finally the effectiveness of the proposed topology is verified using MATLAB/SIMULINK software tool. 7level asymmetrical multilevel inverter prototype hardware is prepared to support the proposed topology to verify the effectiveness and its validity.
An Enhanced Memetic Algorithm for Single-Objective Bilevel Optimization Problems
Authors: Islam Md Monjurul , Singh Hemant Kumar , Ray Tapabrata , Sinha Ankur
Published: November 2016

Bilevel optimization, as the name reflects, deals with optimization at two interconnected hierarchical levels. The aim is to identify the optimum of an upper-level  leader problem, subject to the optimality of a lower-level follower problem. Several problems from the domain of engineering, logistics, economics, and transportation have an inherent nested structure which requires them to be modeled as bilevel optimization problems. Increasing size and complexity of such problems has prompted active theoretical and practical interest in the design of efficient algorithms for bilevel optimization. Given the nested nature of bilevel problems, the computational effort (number of function evaluations) required to solve them is often quite high. In this article, we explore the use of a Memetic Algorithm (MA) to solve bilevel optimization problems. While MAs have been quite successful in solving single-level optimization problems, there have been relatively few studies exploring their potential for solving bilevel optimization problems. MAs essentially attempt to combine advantages of global and local search strategies to identify optimum solutions with low computational cost (function evaluations). The approach introduced in this article is a nested Bilevel Memetic Algorithm (BLMA). At both upper and lower levels, either a global or a local search method is used during different phases of the search. The performance of BLMA is presented on twenty-five standard test problems and two real-life applications. The results are compared with other established algorithms to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed approach.
Spatial Correlation: An Interactive Display of
Virtual Gesture Sculpture
Authors: Nam Jung , Keefe Daniel F.
Published: November 2016

Spatial Correlation is an interactive digital artwork that provides a new window into the process of creating freeform handcrafted virtual sculptures while standing in an immersive Cave virtual reality (VR) environment. The piece originates in the lab, where the artist’s full-body, dance-like sculpting process is recorded using a combination of spatial tracking devices and an array of nine synchronized video cameras. Later, in the gallery, these raw data are reinterpreted as part of an interactive visualization that relates the three spaces in which the sculpture exists: 1) the physical lab/studio space in which the sculpture was created, 2) the digital virtual space in which the sculpture is mathematically defined and stored, and 3) the physical gallery space in which viewers now interact with the sculpture.
Purple Swamphen or Gallinule (Porphyrio porphyrio) and Humans
Authors: Lopes Ricardo Jorge , Gomez Juan Antonio , Andreotti Alessandro , Andreoni Maura
Published: November 2016

Our knowledge of the historical use of nonhuman animal species in captivity and subsequent human-induced changes in their distribution is poor in comparison to contemporary case studies. Here we assess the hypothesis that, in the case of one waterbird species, the purple swamphen or gallinule (Porphyrio porphyrio), we have neglected the high probability that people transported these birds within the Mediterranean, from Roman to recent times. In ancient iconographies, literary sources, and more recent records there is ample evidence for the use of this species in captivity, captive-breeding, and for trade during several historical periods, especially within the Mediterranean region. All this evidence supports the hypothesis that released or escaped birds might have hybridized with other populations living in the wild. This case study stresses the importance of taking into account past human activity when interpreting contemporary distributional patterns of species.
Polystichum quangbinhense sp. nov. (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae), the southernmost cave species of Polystichum from central Vietnam
Authors: LU NGAN THI , ZHANG LIANG , NGUYEN DUNG THAI , ZHANG LI-BING
Published: November 2016

A new fern species, Polystichum quangbinhense, a member of P. subg. Haplopolystichum (Dryopteridaceae), is described and illustrated from Quang Binh Province in central Vietnam. It is the southernmost cave species of the genus discovered so far. Polystichum quangbinhense is most similar to P. obliquum in having oblong pinnae, but the two can be distinguished from each other by the morphology of pinna margins. Polystichum quangbinhense was found inside a karst cave at an elevation of 120 m with humid and shady conditions and is currently known from two populations occurring at two sides of the Doi Cave (So Dua Cave), Quang Binh Province, central Vietnam, and is classified as Critically Endangered (CR) following IUCN Red List criteria.
Species of the Poaceae-associated genus Bamboosiella (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae) from China, with three new species
Authors: DANG LI-HONG , QIAO GE-XIA
Published: November 2016

In the Poaceae-associated genus Bamboosiella Ananthakrishnan, eleven species are here recognized from China, including antennatus sp.n. and longisetis sp.n. from Yunnan, and magnus sp.n. from Hainan. Four species are newly recorded from China, bicoloripes Ananthakrishnan, fasciata Okajima, flavescens Okajima and semiflava Okajima. One species from Zhejiang, Bamboosiella brevibristla Sha, Guo, Feng & Duan is placed as a new synonym of B. exastis (Ananthakrishnan & Kudo). An illustrated identification key is provided to the eleven Bamboosiella species now recognised from China.
Effect of Yunnan–Guizhou Topography at the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau on the Indian Monsoon
Authors: Shi Zhengguo , Sha Yingying , Liu Xiaodong
Published: November 2016

Topographic insulation is one of the primary origins for the influence of the Tibetan Plateau (TP) on Asian climate. The Yunnan–Guizhou (YG) Plateau, at the southeastern margin of the TP, is known to block the northern branch of the Indian monsoon circulation in summer. However, it is an open question whether this blocking feeds back to the monsoon. In this study, the effect of the YG topography on the Indian monsoon and its comparison with that of the TP were evaluated using general circulation model experiments. The results showed that the TP strengthens the monsoon precipitation, especially during the onset. However, the YG topography significantly weakens the monsoon. With the YG topography, strengthened low-level airflow around the YG Plateau induces anomalous anticyclonic winds to the southwest, and the changes remodulate the whole circulation structure over Asia. As a result, the Indian monsoon becomes weakened from the Bay of Bengal to the Indian subcontinent and Arabian Sea, as does the associated precipitation. In addition, the YG topography affects the anomalous warming center over the TP and the precipitation during the monsoon onset. The YG-reduced summer precipitation occupied approximately one-third of the total increment compared to the entire TP. The Indian monsoon weakened by YG topography distinctly opposes the traditional paleoclimatic viewpoint that all of the TP topography contributes to the monsoon strengthening. In fact, the climatic effect of the TP depends closely upon both its central and marginal topography, and the topography of its subterrains does not necessarily play a similar role.
Mechanistic approaches for the prevention and treatment of chronic GVHD
Authors: Cutler Corey S. , Koreth John , Ritz Jerome
Published: November 2016

Clinical outcomes for patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation continue to improve, but chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a common toxicity and major cause of nonrelapse morbidity and mortality. Treatment of chronic GVHD has previously relied primarily on corticosteroids and other broadly immune suppressive agents. However, conventional immune suppressive agents have limited clinical efficacy in chronic GVHD, and prolonged immune suppressive treatments result in additional toxicities that further limit clinical recovery from transplant and return to normal daily function. Recent advances in our understanding of the immune pathology of chronic GVHD offer the possibility that new therapeutic approaches can be directed in more precise ways to target specific immunologic mechanisms and pathways. In this review, we briefly summarize current standard treatment options and present new therapeutic approaches that are supported by preclinical studies and early-phase clinical trials suggesting that these approaches may have clinical utility for treatment or prevention of chronic GVHD. Further evaluation of these new therapeutic options in well-designed prospective multicenter trials are needed to identify the most effective new agents and improve outcomes for patients with chronic GVHD.
The Digital Humanities
Authors: McCarthy Anna
Published: November 2016

A short poem about the automation of thought.
Mothers of Soldiers in Israeli Literature
Authors: Olmert Dana
Published: November 2016

This article addresses the national-political functions of mainstream Hebrew literature, focusing on three questions: What are soldiers’ mothers in the canonical literature “allowed” to think, feel, and do, and what is considered transgressive? How has the presence of soldiers’ mothers in Israeli public life changed since the 1982 Lebanon War? At the center of the discussion is David Grossman’s novel To the End of the Land (2008). I argue that the author posits “the flight from bad tidings” as both a maternal strategy and the author’s psychopoetic strategy. This article examines the cultural and gendered significance of the analogy between the act of flight and the act of writing that Grossman advances in his epilogue.
Αντιλήψεις παιδιών προσχολικής και πρωτοσχολικής ηλικίας για την ανακύκλωση: έρευνα σε παιδιά του Βόλου
Authors: Ηλιοπούλου Ιφιγένεια
Published: November 2016

Η παρούσα εργασία παρουσιάζει μια έρευνα η οποία είχε ως στόχο να αναδείξει τη σκέψη 30 μαθητών Nηπιαγωγείου και 30 μαθητών Γ΄ τάξης Δημοτικού σχολείου, που φοιτούσαν σε δημόσια σχολεία του Βόλου για ένα περιβαλλοντικό ζήτημα, την ανακύκλωση. Ειδικότερα, διερευνήθηκε  α) ο τρόπος με τον οποίο οι μαθητές ορίζουν την ανακύκλωση,  β) οι αντιλήψεις τους τόσο για τη διαδικασία της ανακύκλωσης όσο και για τα είδη των υλικών που μπορούν να ανακυκλωθούν, γ) τι σκέφτονται για το όφελος της ανακύκλωσης καθώς και δ) ο βαθμός πρακτικής της ανακύκλωσης στο σχολείο και το σπίτι. Επίσης, η έρευνα επικεντρώθηκε στον εντοπισμό πιθανών διαφορών  στη σκέψη των μαθητών των δύο ηλικιακών ομάδων αναφορικά με τα θέματα αυτά.  Η ανάλυση περιεχομένου  των δεδομένων, που έγινε με το σχέδιο και την ημιδομημένη συνέντευξη με τη βοήθεια φωτογραφιών και άλλου εποπτικού υλικού, έδειξε ότι οι περισσότεροι μαθητές χρησιμοποιούν ένα έως τρία κυρίως κριτήρια για να  ορίσουν  την ανακύκλωση. Ακόμη, έχουν μια ελλιπή αντίληψη αναφορικά με  το όφελος, τα ανακυκλώσιμα υλικά και την ακριβή διαδικασία της ανακύκλωσης.  Επιπλέον, η πρακτική ανακύκλωσης φάνηκε να είναι πολύ φτωχή στο σχολείο, και σχεδόν ανύπαρκτη στο σπίτι.  Σαφώς, όπως αναμενόταν, διαπιστώθηκαν διαφορές ανάμεσα στις δύο ηλικιακές ομάδες λόγω της διαφορετικής τους γνωστικής ανάπτυξης και  των τριών περισσότερων χρόνων σχολικής εκπαίδευσης, μεταξύ  άλλων παραμέτρων. Τέλος, συζητιούνται οι προτάσεις για την διδακτική πρακτική που βασίζονται στα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας.  
Dark circles in the periorbital region: diagnosis and treatment options
Authors: Murdoch Marshall
Published: November 2016

Dark circles under the eyes are a common but challenging problem in aesthetic practice. The causes of dark circles are multifactorial and can be grouped into three categories. Aetiological factors described in the literature include a ‘shadow in the valley’, due to the obicularis retaining ligaments and tear trough ligaments, superficial venous congestion and skin discolouration. Several validated treatment modalities have been described, including cosmetic surgery, dermal fillers, energy-based devices, needle-based therapy, chemical peels and topical agents. A review of the available management options, their therapeutic targets and the author's evaluation of their efficacy and cost in practice is presented in this paper.