bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Testing of Traffic Light Programs: Validation in Smart Mobility Scenarios
Authors: Ferrer Javier , García-Nieto José , Alba Enrique , Chicano Francisco
Published: March 2016

In smart cities, the use of intelligent automatic techniques to find efficient cycle programs of traffic lights is becoming an innovative front for traffic flow management. However, this automatic programming of traffic lights requires a validation process of the generated solutions, since they can affect the mobility (and security) of millions of citizens. In this paper, we propose a validation strategy based on genetic algorithms and feature models for the automatic generation of different traffic scenarios checking the robustness of traffic light cycle programs. We have concentrated on an extensive urban area in the city of Malaga (in Spain), in which we validate a set of candidate cycle programs generated by means of four optimization algorithms: Particle Swarm Optimization for Traffic Lights, Differential Evolution for Traffic Lights, random search, and Sumo Cycle Program Generator. We can test the cycles of traffic lights considering the different states of the city, weather, congestion, driver expertise, vehicle’s features, and so forth, but prioritizing the most relevant scenarios among a large and varied set of them. The improvement achieved in solution quality is remarkable, especially forCO2emissions, in which we have obtained a reduction of 126.99% compared with the experts’ solutions.
“I Always Worry about What Might Happen Ahead”: Implementing Safer Conception Services in the Current Environment of Reproductive Counseling for HIV-Affected Men and Women in Uganda
Authors: Matthews Lynn T. , Bajunirwe Francis , Kastner Jasmine , Sanyu Naomi , Akatukwasa Cecilia , Ng Courtney , Rifkin Rachel , Milford Cecilia , Moore Lizzie , Wilson Ira B. , Bangsberg David R. , Smit Jennifer A. , Kaida Angela
Published: March 2016

Background.We explored healthcare provider perspectives and practices regarding safer conception counseling for HIV-affected clients.Methods.We conducted semistructured interviews with 38 providers (medical and clinical officers, nurses, peer counselors, and village health workers) delivering care to HIV-infected clients across 5 healthcare centres in Mbarara District, Uganda. Interview transcripts were analyzed using content analysis.Results.Of 38 providers, 76% were women with median age 34 years (range 24–57). First, we discuss providers’ reproductive counseling practices. Emergent themes include that providers (1) assess reproductive goals of HIV-infected female clients frequently, but infrequently for male clients; (2) offer counseling focused on “family planning” and maternal and child health; (3) empathize with the importance of having children for HIV-affected clients; and (4) describe opportunities to counsel HIV-serodiscordant couples. Second, we discuss provider-level challenges that impede safer conception counseling. Emergent themes included the following: (1) providers struggle to translate reproductive rights language into individualized risk reduction given concerns about maternal health and HIV transmission and (2) providers lack safer conception training and support needed to provide counseling.Discussion.Tailored guidelines and training are required for providers to implement safer conception counseling. Such support must respond to provider experiences with adverse HIV-related maternal and child outcomes and a national emphasis on pregnancy prevention.
Pharmacokinetics of Immediate and Sustained Release Cephalexin Administered by Different Routes to Llamas (Lama glama)
Authors: Kreil Verónica , Ambros Luis , Prados Ana Paula , Tarragona Lisa , Monfrinotti Agustina , Bramuglia Guillermo , Rebuelto Marcela
Published: March 2016

We investigate the pharmacokinetics of two different cephalexin formulations administered to llamas by the intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), and subcutaneous (SC) routes, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of cephalexin against someEscherichia coliand staphylococci isolated from llamas, and we apply the PK/PD modelling approach, so that effective dosage recommendations for this species could be made. Six llamas received immediate (10 mg/kg, IV, IM, and SC) and sustained (8 mg/kg IM, SC) release cephalexin. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by noncompartmental approach. Immediate release SC administration produced a significantly longer elimination half-life as compared with the IV and IM administration (1.3±0.2versus0.6±0.1and0.6±0.1 h, resp.) and higher mean absorption time as compared with the IM administration (1.7±0.5versus0.6±0.4 h). Absolute bioavailability was in the range of 72–89% for both formulations and routes of administration. Cephalexin MIC90values against staphylococci andE. coliwere 1.0 and 8.0 μg/mL, respectively. Our results show that the immediate release formulation (10 mg/kg) would be effective for treating staphylococcal infections administered every 8 h (IM) or 12 h (SC), whereas the sustained release formulation (8 mg/kg) would require the IM or SC administration every 12 or 24 h, respectively.
Effects of Density and Moisture Variation on Dynamic Deformation Properties of Compacted Lateritic Soil
Authors: Liu Weizheng , Qu Shuai , Nie Zhihong , Zhang Junhui
Published: March 2016

A series of repeated load triaxial tests were conducted in this study to investigate the influences of compaction density and postcompaction moisture variation on the dynamic elastic modulus (Ed) and plastic permanent strain (PPS) of compacted lateritic soil. Specimens were compacted at optimum moisture content (OMC) and three degrees of compaction (90%, 93%, and 96%). Then the specimens were dried or wetted to different moisture contents (OMC,OMC±3%,OMC±6%, andOMC+9%) prior to testing forEdand PPS. Results show that moisture content has greater influence on theEdand PSS than compaction degree, and the increase in moisture content leads to a decrease ofEdand an increase of PPS. Furthermore, an empirical relationship betweenEdand applied cyclic stress (σd) is developed that incorporates density and moisture variations. Three different evolution types of PPS with number of load cycles, plastic stable, plastic creep, and incremental collapse, are identified as the increase of moisture content. In addition, the critical dynamic stress (σdc) separating stable and unstable deformation is determined based on the shakedown concept. The envelope curves ofσdc-moisture of lateritic soil with different degrees of compaction are also determined to provide reference for the pavement design.
Changes in Mitral Annular Ascent with Worsening Echocardiographic Parameters of Left Ventricular Diastolic Function
Authors: Hernández Burgos Paula M. , López-Candales Angel
Published: March 2016

Background. While the mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) has been suggested as a surrogate measurement of left ventricular ejection fraction, less is known about the relative value of mitral annular ascent (MAa).Methods. Our database was queried for complete transthoracic echocardiograms performed for any clinical indication. Baseline echocardiographic measurements were compared to determine any correlation between MAa and traditional Echo-Doppler echocardiographic measures to characterize left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD).Results. Patients with normal LV diastolic function were younger (41±13years) than patients with LVDD (stage 1:61±13years; stage 2:57±14years; and stage 3:66±17years;p=0.156). LV ejection fraction decreased in patients with stage 2 LVDD (63±17%) and was further reduced in patients with stage 3 LVDD (28±21;p=0.003).Discussion. While a vigorous MAa excursion was seen in patients with stage 1 LVDD, MAa significantly decreased in stage 2 and stage 3 LVDD patients. Our results highlight the importance of atrioventricular coupling, as MAa motion seems to reflect changes in left atrial pressure. Additional studies are now required to better examine atrioventricular interactions and electromechanical coupling that might improve our assessment of LV diastolic function.
Paramedic Recognition of Sepsis in the Prehospital Setting: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Green Robert S. , Travers Andrew H. , Cain Edward , Campbell Samuel G. , Jensen Jan L. , Petrie David A. , Erdogan Mete , Patrick Gredi , Patrick Ward
Published: March 2016

Background. Patients with sepsis benefit from early diagnosis and treatment. Accurate paramedic recognition of sepsis is important to initiate care promptly for patients who arrive by Emergency Medical Services.Methods. Prospective observational study of adult patients (age ≥ 16 years) transported by paramedics to the emergency department (ED) of a Canadian tertiary hospital. Paramedic identification of sepsis was assessed using a novel prehospital sepsis screening tool developed by the study team and compared to blind, independent documentation of ED diagnoses by attending emergency physicians (EPs). Specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, positive and negative predictive value, and likelihood ratios were calculated with 95% confidence intervals.Results. Overall, 629 patients were included in the analysis. Sepsis was identified by paramedics in 170 (27.0%) patients and by EPs in 71 (11.3%) patients. Sensitivity of paramedic sepsis identification compared to EP diagnosis was 73.2% (95% CI 61.4–83.0), while specificity was 78.8% (95% CI 75.2–82.2). The accuracy of paramedic identification of sepsis was 78.2% (492/629, 52 true positive, 440 true negative). Positive and negative predictive values were 30.6% (95% CI 23.8–38.1) and 95.9% (95% CI 93.6–97.5), respectively.Conclusion. Using a novel prehospital sepsis screening tool, paramedic recognition of sepsis had greater specificity than sensitivity with reasonable accuracy.
A Stochastic Differential Equation Model for the Spread of HIV amongst People Who Inject Drugs
Authors: Liang Yanfeng , Greenhalgh David , Mao Xuerong
Published: March 2016

We introduce stochasticity into the deterministic differential equation model for the spread of HIV amongst people who inject drugs (PWIDs) studied by Greenhalgh and Hay (1997). This was based on the original model constructed by Kaplan (1989) which analyses the behaviour of HIV/AIDS amongst a population of PWIDs. We derive a stochastic differential equation (SDE) for the fraction of PWIDs who are infected with HIV at time. The stochasticity is introduced using the well-known standard technique of parameter perturbation. We first prove that the resulting SDE for the fraction of infected PWIDs has a unique solution in (0, 1) provided that some infected PWIDs are initially present and next construct the conditions required for extinction and persistence. Furthermore, we show that there exists a stationary distribution for the persistence case. Simulations using realistic parameter values are then constructed to illustrate and support our theoretical results. Our results provide new insight into the spread of HIV amongst PWIDs. The results show that the introduction of stochastic noise into a model for the spread of HIV amongst PWIDs can cause the disease to die out in scenarios where deterministic models predict disease persistence.
Serum Cytokine Responses over the Entire Clinical-Immunological Spectrum of HumanLeishmania (L.) infantum chagasiInfection
Authors: Ramos Patrícia Karla , Carvalho Karina Inácio , Rosa Daniela Santoro , Rodrigues Ana Paula , Lima Luciana Vieira , Campos Marliane Batista , Gomes Claudia Maria C. , Laurenti Márcia Dalastra , Corbett Carlos Eduardo , Silveira Fernando Tobias
Published: March 2016

The clinical-immunological spectrum of humanLeishmania (L.) infantum chagasiinfection in Amazonian Brazil was recently reviewed based on clinical, DTH, and IFAT (IgG) evaluations that identified five profiles: three asymptomatic (asymptomatic infection, AI; subclinical resistant infection, SRI; and indeterminate initial infection, III) and two symptomatic (symptomatic infection, SI; American visceral leishmaniasis, AVL; and subclinical oligosymptomatic infection, SOI). TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10 serum cytokines were analyzed using multiplexed Cytometric Bead Array in 161 samples from endemic areas in the Brazilian Amazon: SI [AVL] (21 cases), III (49), SRI (19), SOI (12), AI (36), and a control group [CG] (24). The highest IL-6 serum levels were observed in the SI profile (AVL); higher IL-10 serum levels were observed in SI than in SOI or CG and in AI and III than in SOI; higher TNF-αserum levels were seen in SI than in CG. Positive correlations were found between IL-6 and IL-10 serum levels in the SI and III profiles and between IL-6 and TNF-αand between IL-4 and TNF-αin the III profile. These results provide strong evidence for associating IL-6 and IL-10 with the immunopathogenesis of AVL and help clarify the role of these cytokines in the infection spectrum.
Dexmedetomidine versus Magnesium Sulfate as Adjunct during Anesthesia for Laparoscopic Colectomy
Authors: Zarif Pierre , Abdelaal Ahmed Mahmoud Ahmed , Abdelhaq Mohamed Mohamed , Mikhail Hany M. S. , Farag Ahmed
Published: March 2016

Objectives. To compare dexmedetomidine versus magnesium during laparoscopic colectomy.Patients and Methods. 51 patients were randomly allocated into 3 groups: group C (control) received saline infusion, group D dexmedetomidine 1 g/kg and then 0.4 g/kg/hr, and group M MgSO42 g and then 15 g/kg/min. Intraoperative hemodynamics were measured before and 1 min after intubation (T1 andT2), before and 5 min after peritoneal insufflation (T3 andT4), before and 5 min after 30° Trendelenburg position (T5 andT6), 5 min after resuming flat position (T7), 5 min after peritoneal deflations (T8), after extubation (T9), and at time of admission to PACU (T10). Recovery time and degree of sedation were assessed.Results. HR and MAP were significantly higher inT2,T4, andT6 compared toT1,T3, andT5, respectively, in all groups with lower measurements in groups D and M compared to group C. Mean of collective measurements was significantly higher in group C. Recovery time and sedation score were significantly higher in groups D and M. Time to Aldrete score of ≥9 was significantly longer in groups D and M.Conclusion. Both drugs ameliorate the pressor responses during LC with a nonsignificant difference. This study is registered with
PACTR201602001481308.
Septic Encephalopathy Characterized by Acute Encephalopathy with Biphasic Seizures and Late Reduced Diffusion and Early Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus
Authors: Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Tanaka Tsukasa , Maruyama Azusa , Nagase Hiroaki
Published: March 2016

Infection, whether viral or bacterial, can result in various forms of brain dysfunction (encephalopathy). Septic encephalopathy (SE) is caused by an excessive immune reaction to infection, with clinical features including disturbed consciousness and seizures. Acute encephalopathy with biphasic seizures and late reduced diffusion (AESD) is usually accompanied by viral infection in children and is characterized by biphasic seizures and impaired consciousness. The initial neurologic symptom of AESD is typically a febrile seizure that frequently lasts longer than 30 minutes. However, the possible forms this seizure takes are unclear. For example, it is unknown if nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) could be an early seizure symptomatic of AESD. In addition, thus far no cases of combined SE and AESD have been reported. Here, we describe the first reported case of SE with AESD that notably demonstrated NCSE as an early seizure.
Distribution of Heavy Metals in the Soils Associated with the Commonly Used Pesticides in Cotton Fields
Authors: Tariq Saadia Rashid , Shafiq Musharaf , Chotana Ghayoor Abbas
Published: March 2016

Agricultural soils contain both heavy metals and pesticides originating from various agricultural practices. It is quite important to study the relationships between these two classes of compounds. To accomplish this, 52 soil samples were collected from cotton fields and analyzed for their metal contents (Ni, Cu, Co, Pb, Cr, and Cd) and levels of most commonly used pesticides (imidacloprid, acetamiprid, and emamectin). FAAS was used for metal estimation and the pesticides were determined by HPLC equipped with UV detector. The results of the study revealed slightly enhanced levels of Ni and Cd in these samples while the rest of the metals were present within tolerable range. Acetamiprid residues in soil were strongly positively correlated with Cu and negatively correlated with Cr. Similarly, imidacloprid in soil was negatively correlated with Ni. Thus it was evidenced that Cu stabilizes acetamiprid while Cr and Ni facilitate the degradation of acetamiprid and imidacloprid in the soil.
Improved Synthesis of Nanosized Silica in Water-in-Oil Microemulsions
Authors: Koźlecki Tomasz , Polowczyk Izabela , Bastrzyk Anna , Sawiński Wojciech
Published: March 2016

Present contribution describes modified Stöber synthesis of silica nanoparticles in oil-in-water microemulsion, formulated using heptane, 2-ethylhexanol, Tween® 85 nonionic surfactant, and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS). After some specified incubation time, ammonium hydroxide was added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 24 hours at room temperature. Prior to synthesis, pseudoternary diagram was created for oil-rich area and Winsor IV region was identified. These microemulsions were used for synthesis of silica particles. Resulting particles were characterized by dynamic light scattering, electrokinetic measurements, specific surface area measurements, and powder diffraction. Particles’ diameter was ranging between ca. 130 and 500 nm; usually monodisperse distribution was obtained. The specific surface area of nanoparticles was ranging between 250 and 300 m2/g. Notably, productivity per unit volume of solution was 3 to 5 times higher than for previously reported procedures. Our method can be extended, because polymeric materials can be added to dispersed aqueous phase. In our studies,β-cyclodextrin and hydroxyethylcellulose have been used, giving particles between 170 and 422 nm, with the surface area larger than 300 m2/g.
Security Analysis and Improvement of Fingerprint Authentication for Smartphones
Authors: Jo Young-Hoo , Jeon Seong-Yun , Im Jong-Hyuk , Lee Mun-Kyu
Published: March 2016

Currently, an increasing number of smartphones are adopting fingerprint verification as a method to authenticate their users. Fingerprint verification is not only used to unlock these smartphones, but also used in financial applications such as online payment. Therefore, it is very crucial to secure the fingerprint verification mechanism for reliable services. In this paper, however, we identify a few vulnerabilities in one of the currently deployed smartphones equipped with fingerprint verification service by analyzing the service application. We demonstrate actual attacks via two proof-of-concept codes that exploit these vulnerabilities. By the first attack, a malicious application can obtain the fingerprint image of the owner of the victimized smartphone through message-based interprocess communication with the service application. In the second attack, an attacker can extract fingerprint features by decoding a file containing them in encrypted form. We also suggest a few possible countermeasures to prevent these attacks.
Thermal Ablative Therapies and Immune Checkpoint Modulation: Can Locoregional Approaches Effect a Systemic Response?
Authors: Mehta Amol , Oklu Rahmi , Sheth Rahul A.
Published: March 2016

Percutaneous image-guided ablation is an increasingly common treatment for a multitude of solid organ malignancies. While historically these techniques have been restricted to the management of small, unresectable tumors, there is an expanding appreciation for the systemic effects these locoregional interventions can cause. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of action for the most common thermal ablation modalities and highlight the key advances in knowledge regarding the interactions between thermal ablation and the immune system.
Stress and Fatigue Management Using Balneotherapy in a Short‐Time Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rapolienė Lolita , Razbadauskas Artūras , Sąlyga Jonas , Martinkėnas Arvydas
Published: March 2016

Objective. To investigate the influence of high‐salinity geothermal mineral water on stress and fatigue. Method. 180 seamen were randomized into three groups: geothermal (65), music (50), and control (65). The geothermal group was administered 108 g/L salinity geothermal water bath for 2 weeks five times a week. Primary outcome was effect on stress and fatigue. Secondary outcomes were the effect on cognitive function, mood, and pain. Results. The improvements after balneotherapy were a reduction in the number and intensity of stress‐related symptoms, a reduction in pain and general, physical, and mental fatigue, and an improvement in stress‐related symptoms management, mood, activation, motivation, and cognitive functions with effect size from 0.8 to 2.3. In the music therapy group, there were significant positive changes in the number of stress symptoms, intensity, mood, pain, and activity with the effect size of 0.4 to 1.1. The researchers did not observe any significant positive changes in the control group. The comparison between the groups showed that balneotherapy was superior to music therapy and no treatment group. Conclusions. Balneotherapy is beneficial for stress and fatigue reduction in comparison with music or no therapy group. Geothermal water baths have a potential as an efficient approach to diminish stress caused by working or living conditions.
Sexual (Dys)function after Urethroplasty
Authors: Xambre Luís
Published: March 2016

There is a paucity of published literature on the andrological consequences of urethral repair. Until recently authors have focused mainly on technical aspects and objective results. Reported outcomes of urethral reconstruction surgery have traditionally focused only on urodynamic parameters such as flow rates. Patient reported outcome measures have largely been neglected and there is a scarcity of well conducted systematic studies on the subject. For these reasons whether the different components of sexual life are more or less affected by different types of urethral reconstruction remains largely unknown. In an attempt to clarify the available scientific evidence, the authors make a critical review of available literature, systematizing it by sexual domain and study type. Brief pathophysiological correlations are discussed.
Towards Mobile Information Systems for Indoor Space
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiang , Jin Peiquan , Yue Lihua , Wang Na , Li Qianyuan
Published: March 2016

With the rapid development of Internet of things (IOT) and indoor positioning technologies such as Wi-Fi and RFID, indoor mobile information systems have become a new research hotspot. Based on the unique features of indoor space and urgent needs on indoor mobile applications, in this paper we analyze some key issues in indoor mobile information systems, including positioning technologies in indoor environments, representation models for indoor spaces, query processing techniques for indoor moving objects, and index structures for indoor mobile applications. Then, we present an indoor mobile information management system named IndoorDB. Finally, we give some future research topics about indoor mobile information systems.
Planar Central Configurations of Symmetric Five-Body Problems with Two Pairs of Equal Masses
Authors: Shoaib Muhammad , Kashif Abdul Rehman , Sivasankaran Anoop
Published: March 2016

We study central configuration of a set of symmetric planar five-body problems where(1)the five masses are arranged in such a way thatm1,m2, andm4are collinear andm2,m3, andm5are collinear; the two sets of collinear masses form a triangle withm2at the intersection of the two sets of collinear masses;(2)four of the bodies are on the vertices of an isosceles trapezoid and the fifth body can take various positions on the axis of symmetry both outside and inside the trapezoid. We form expressions for mass ratios and identify regions in the phase space where it is possible to choose positive masses which will make the configuration central. We also show that the triangular configuration is not possible.
Homologous Recombination Deficiency (HRD) Score Predicts Response to Platinum-Containing Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Patients with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Telli Melinda L. , Timms Kirsten M. , Reid Julia , Hennessy Bryan , Mills Gordon B. , Jensen Kristin C. , Szallasi Zoltan , Barry William T. , Winer Eric P. , Tung Nadine M. , Isakoff Steven J. , Ryan Paula D. , Greene-Colozzi April , Gutin Alexander , Sangale Zaina , Iliev Diana , Neff Chris , Abkevich Victor , Jones Joshua T. , Lanchbury Jerry S. , Hartman Anne-Renee , Garber Judy E. , Ford James M. , Silver Daniel P. , Richardson Andrea L.
Published: March 2016

Purpose: BRCA1/2-mutated and some sporadic triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC) have DNA repair defects and are sensitive to DNA-damaging therapeutics. Recently, three independent DNA-based measures of genomic instability were developed on the basis of loss of heterozygosity (LOH), telomeric allelic imbalance (TAI), and large-scale state transitions (LST).

Experimental Design: We assessed a combined homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) score, an unweighted sum of LOH, TAI, and LST scores, in three neoadjuvant TNBC trials of platinum-containing therapy. We then tested the association of HR deficiency, defined as HRD score ≥42 or BRCA1/2 mutation, with response to platinum-based therapy.

Results: In a trial of neoadjuvant platinum, gemcitabine, and iniparib, HR deficiency predicted residual cancer burden score of 0 or I (RCB 0/I) and pathologic complete response (pCR; OR = 4.96, P = 0.0036; OR = 6.52, P = 0.0058). HR deficiency remained a significant predictor of RCB 0/I when adjusted for clinical variables (OR = 5.86, P = 0.012). In two other trials of neoadjuvant cisplatin therapy, HR deficiency predicted RCB 0/I and pCR (OR = 10.18, P = 0.0011; OR = 17.00, P = 0.0066). In a multivariable model of RCB 0/I, HR deficiency retained significance when clinical variables were included (OR = 12.08, P = 0.0017). When restricted to BRCA1/2 nonmutated tumors, response was higher in patients with high HRD scores: RCB 0/I P = 0.062, pCR P = 0.063 in the neoadjuvant platinum, gemcitabine, and iniparib trial; RCB 0/I P = 0.0039, pCR P = 0.018 in the neoadjuvant cisplatin trials.

Conclusions: HR deficiency identifies TNBC tumors, including BRCA1/2 nonmutated tumors more likely to respond to platinum-containing therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 22(15); 3764–73. ©2016 AACR.
Anaerobic Degradation of p-Alkylated Benzoates and Toluenes
Authors: Rabus Ralf , Boll Matthias , Golding Bernard , Wilkes Heinz
Published: March 2016

The anaerobic degradation of 4-alkylbenzoates and 4-alkyltoluenes is to date a rarely reported microbial capacity. The newly isolated Alphaproteobacterium Magnetospirillum sp. strain pMbN1 represents the first pure culture demonstrated to degrade 4-methylbenzoate completely to CO2 in a process coupled to denitrification. Differential proteogenomic studies in conjunction with targeted metabolite analyses and enzyme activity measurements elucidated a specific 4-methylbenzoyl-coenzyme A (CoA) pathway in this bacterium alongside the classical central benzoyl-CoA pathway. Whilst these two pathways are analogous, in the former the p-methyl group is retained and its 4-methylbenzoyl-CoA reductase (MbrCBAD) is phylogenetically distinct from the archetypical class I benzoyl-CoA reductase (BcrCBAD). Subsequent global regulatory studies on strain pMbN1 grown with binary or ternary substrate mixtures revealed benzoate to repress the anaerobic utilization of 4-methylbenzoate and succinate. The shared nutritional property of betaproteobacterial ‘Aromatoleum aromaticum' pCyN1 and Thauera sp. strain pCyN2 is the anaerobic degradation of the plant-derived hydrocarbon p-cymene (4-isopropyltoluene) coupled to denitrification. Notably, the two strains employ two different peripheral pathways for the conversion of p-cymene to 4-isopropylbenzoyl-CoA as the possible first common intermediate. In ‘A. aromaticum' pCyN1 a putative p-cymene dehydrogenase (CmdABC) is proposed to hydroxylate the benzylic methyl group, which is subsequently further oxidized to the CoA-thioester. In contrast, Thauera sp. strain pCyN2 employs a reaction sequence analogous to the known anaerobic toluene pathway, involving a distinct branching (4-isopropylbenzyl)succinate synthase (IbsABCDEF).
Methanogenic Hydrocarbon Degradation: Evidence from Field and Laboratory Studies
Authors: Jiménez Núria , Richnow Hans H. , Vogt Carsten , Treude Tina , Krüger Martin
Published: March 2016

Microbial transformation of hydrocarbons to methane is an environmentally relevant process taking place in a wide variety of electron acceptor-depleted habitats, from oil reservoirs and coal deposits to contaminated groundwater and deep sediments. Methanogenic hydrocarbon degradation is considered to be a major process in reservoir degradation and one of the main processes responsible for the formation of heavy oil deposits and oil sands. In the absence of external electron acceptors such as oxygen, nitrate, sulfate or Fe(III), fermentation and methanogenesis become the dominant microbial metabolisms. The major end product under these conditions is methane, and the only electron acceptor necessary to sustain the intermediate steps in this process is CO2, which is itself a net product of the overall reaction. We are summarizing the state of the art and recent advances in methanogenic hydrocarbon degradation research. Both the key microbial groups involved as well as metabolic pathways are described, and we discuss the novel insights into methanogenic hydrocarbon-degrading populations studied in laboratory as well as environmental systems enabled by novel cultivation-based and molecular approaches. Their possible implications on energy resources, bioremediation of contaminated sites, deep-biosphere research, and consequences for atmospheric composition and ultimately climate change are also addressed.
Anaerobic Microbial Degradation of Hydrocarbons: From Enzymatic Reactions to the Environment
Authors: Rabus Ralf , Boll Matthias , Heider Johann , Meckenstock Rainer U. , Buckel Wolfgang , Einsle Oliver , Ermler Ulrich , Golding Bernard T. , Gunsalus Robert P. , Kroneck Peter M.H. , Krüger Martin , Lueders Tillmann , Martins Berta M. , Musat Florin , Richnow Hans H. , Schink Bernhard , Seifert Jana , Szaleniec Maciej , Treude Tina , Ullmann G. Matthias , Vogt Carsten , von Bergen Martin , Wilkes Heinz
Published: March 2016

Hydrocarbons are abundant in anoxic environments and pose biochemical challenges to their anaerobic degradation by microorganisms. Within the framework of the Priority Program 1319, investigations funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft on the anaerobic microbial degradation of hydrocarbons ranged from isolation and enrichment of hitherto unknown hydrocarbon-degrading anaerobic microorganisms, discovery of novel reactions, detailed studies of enzyme mechanisms and structures to process-oriented in situ studies. Selected highlights from this program are collected in this synopsis, with more detailed information provided by theme-focused reviews of the special topic issue on ‘Anaerobic biodegradation of hydrocarbons' [this issue, pp. 1-244]. The interdisciplinary character of the program, involving microbiologists, biochemists, organic chemists and environmental scientists, is best exemplified by the studies on alkyl-/arylalkylsuccinate synthases. Here, research topics ranged from in-depth mechanistic studies of archetypical toluene-activating benzylsuccinate synthase, substrate-specific phylogenetic clustering of alkyl-/arylalkylsuccinate synthases (toluene plus xylenes, p-cymene, p-cresol, 2-methylnaphthalene, n-alkanes), stereochemical and co-metabolic insights into n-alkane-activating (methylalkyl)succinate synthases to the discovery of bacterial groups previously unknown to possess alkyl-/arylalkylsuccinate synthases by means of functional gene markers and in situ field studies enabled by state-of-the-art stable isotope probing and fractionation approaches. Other topics are Mo-cofactor-dependent dehydrogenases performing O2-independent hydroxylation of hydrocarbons and alkyl side chains (ethylbenzene, p-cymene, cholesterol, n-hexadecane), degradation of p-alkylated benzoates and toluenes, glycyl radical-bearing 4-hydroxyphenylacetate decarboxylase, novel types of carboxylation reactions (for acetophenone, acetone, and potentially also benzene and naphthalene), W-cofactor-containing enzymes for reductive dearomatization of benzoyl-CoA (class II benzoyl-CoA reductase) in obligate anaerobes and addition of water to acetylene, fermentative formation of cyclohexanecarboxylate from benzoate, and methanogenic degradation of hydrocarbons.
Risk Factors for Acute Kidney Injury after Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery and Its Detection Using Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin
Authors: Onk Oruç Alper , Onk Didem , Ozcelik Fatih , Gunay Murat , Turkmen Kultigin
Published: March 2016

Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is an important complication of cardiac surgery due to its high mortality. The aim of the present study was to detect the factors leading to AKI in patients who underwent coronary artery bypass surgery (CABS) and also to determine the optimal timing for detecting AKI using the biomarker neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL). Materials and Methods: The records of 375 patients who underwent CABS were reviewed in this case-control study. Ejection fraction (EF), common carotid artery intima-media thickness (CCA-IMT) and cross-clamp (C-C) time of the patients were recorded. Blood samples were taken from all patients on preoperative day 1 as well as 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 h and 7 days after operation. Biochemical parameters were studied in patients with and without AKI. Results: According to the Risk Injury Failure Loss End Stage criteria, 24 patients had renal risk, 17 had injury and 4 had failure. Postoperative 24-hour serum creatinine levels indicated the risk of renal dysfunction for only 4 patients in the AKI group. CCA-IMT, C-C time, haematocrit (HCT) and preoperative interleukin-6 levels were significantly higher in the AKI group than in the non-AKI group. Postoperative 6- and 12-hour NGAL levels in the AKI group correlated with postoperative 36-hour serum creatinine levels. The optimal cut-off values for postoperative 6- and 12-hour NGAL test were 310 and 283 ng/ml, respectively. The area under the curve was higher in the 12-hour NGAL test (p < 0.0086). Conclusion: The number of stenotic coronary arteries, EF, CCA-IMT and HCT are all important risk factors. Early postoperative NGAL results were highly specific for the early recognition of AKI.
Polarizable Material from a Conjunctival Biopsy in a Patient with Sarcoidosis
Authors: Ali Omair B. , Deroque Ryan , Morshedi R. Grant , Brown Harry
Published: March 2016

Purpose: Conjunctival biopsies may contain polarizable material in patients with sarcoidosis despite no history of prior trauma or eye surgeries. Procedures: A 39-year-old male with uveitic glaucoma presented with decreased vision and throbbing pain in his right eye. His intraocular pressure was elevated, and his vision was reduced to hand motion. Due to persistently elevated intraocular pressure refractory to medical treatment, the patient underwent a glaucoma drainage device procedure. During the procedure, a yellow, nodular conjunctival growth was noted and biopsied. Results: Histopathological examination revealed multiple nonnecrotizing granulomata, some of which contained polarizable material. Conclusions: Biopsies of patients with sarcoidosis may contain polarizable material without evidence of foreign body inoculation.
Surgical Management of a Case of a 360-Degree Giant Retinal Break
Authors: Elshewy Ahmed
Published: March 2016

Purpose: The aim is to describe tools and techniques that can be used to deal with total retinal detachment (open funnel) and associated proliferative vitreoretinopathy due to a 360-degree giant retinal break following ocular trauma. Setting/Venue: The video (available at www. karger.com/doi/10.1159/000444811) was created at the Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine Kasr Al Ainy, Cairo University Hospital, Cairo, Egypt. Methods: A 16-year-old female patient presented to the Cairo University Hospital after blunt ocular trauma. She had traumatic cataract, and ultrasound examination showed total retinal detachment. She was scheduled for surgery at the Cairo University Hospital. Phacoemulsification of traumatic cataract was done after insertion of the 3-port 23-gauge trocar system. The 25-gauge chandelier illumination system was used to assist the peeling of adherent posterior hyaloid and epiretinal membranes, allowing bimanual work using an end-gripping forceps and a diamond-dusted retinal scrapper. Removal of the vitreous surrounding the retinal funnel was performed, and a small perfluorocarbon (PFC) bubble was used to support the posterior pole. This was followed by refreshing the rolled edges of the retinal break and shaving the vitreous base and anterior leaflet of the giant break by surgeon-assisted scleral indentation. The eye was completely filled with PFC, and Argon laser retinopexy was performed. Direct PFC-silicone oil exchange was done to avoid retinal slippage (silicone oil 5,000 cSt was used). Results: Retinal attachment was successfully achieved at the end of the surgery. The silicone oil was removed 5 months after the initial surgery. The patient's uncorrected visual acuity 1 month after removal of the silicone was 0.4. Conclusions: The chandelier-assisted bimanual technique is an effective method for dealing with adherent posterior hyaloid and epiretinal membranes in a detached retina, particularly in cases of complex open-funnel retinal detachment. Proper shaving of the anterior leaflet and refreshing the edges of the retinal break helps decrease postoperative PVR formation. Direct PFC-silicone oil exchange in giant retinal breaks helps minimize the risk of retinal slippage occurrence.
The Complex Interplay Between Multisensory Integration and Perceptual Awareness
Authors: Deroy O. , Faivre N. , Lunghi C. , Spence C. , Aller M. , Noppeney U.
Published: March 2016

The integration of information has been considered a hallmark of human consciousness, as it requires information being globally availableviawidespread neural interactions. Yet the complex interdependencies between multisensory integration and perceptual awareness, or consciousness, remain to be defined. While perceptual awareness has traditionally been studied in a single sense, in recent years we have witnessed a surge of interest in the role of multisensory integration in perceptual awareness. Based on a recent IMRF symposium on multisensory awareness, this review discusses three key questions from conceptual, methodological and experimental perspectives: (1) What do we study when we study multisensory awareness? (2) What is the relationship between multisensory integration and perceptual awareness? (3) Which experimental approaches are most promising to characterize multisensory awareness? We hope that this review paper will provoke lively discussions, novel experiments, and conceptual considerations to advance our understanding of the multifaceted interplay between multisensory integration and consciousness.
The Basis of Putin’s Power
Authors: Gill Graeme
Published: March 2016

This paper focuses on the way Vladimir Putin has sought to build a power base within Russian politics. This base has rested on two foundations: institutional consolidation and elite management. With regard to the institutional basis, he has relied on the constitutional position of the presidency reinforced by the power vertical, the party of power, and the presidential apparatus. He has sought to manage the elite by means of his personal administrative style within a patrimonial context, the shaping of his popular image, and the reworking of the ideological and policy spheres. The paper concludes that although the resultant power base has been solid until now, there are tensions within it that may make it unsustainable in the long run.
Typification and nomenclature of the names published in Plantae Serbicae Rariores aut Novae—Decas III
Authors: CLEMENTI MORENO , VUKOJIČIĆ SNEŽANA , MIOLA ANTONELLA , NIKETIĆ MARJAN
Published: March 2016

We provide information on the typification of the names of one genus (Lactucopsis), two sections (L. sect. Mulgediopsis, L. sect. Prenanthopsis), two unranked subgeneric names (Hieracium [unranked] Chlorocarpa, H. [unranked] Melanocarpa), ten species (Dianthus moesiacus, Eryngium palmatum, Haplophyllum boissierianum, Hieracium schultzianum, Lactucopsis aurea, Lactucopsis brevirostris, Lactucopsis mulgedioides, Mulgedium sonchifolium, Picridium macrophyllum, Stachys anisochila), and one form (Gypsophila spergulifolia f. serbica) validly published in Roberto de Visiani and Josif Pančić’s work Plantae Serbicae Rariores aut Novae—Decas III, published in 1870, and one variety (Knautia macedonica var. lyrophylla) published in Verzeichnis der in Serbien wildwachsenden Phanerogamen (1856). Additional nomenclatural notes deal with three other species, five new combinations, seven invalid names and one invalid combination that were also discussed or published in Visiani & Pančić (1870). Seven nomenclatural types for eight validly published taxa are designated here.
Two new species of Bungona Harker, 1957 (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) from Borneo, Indonesia
Authors: MARLE PIERRE , SALLES FREDERICO F. , GATTOLLIAT JEAN-LUC
Published: March 2016

Two new species of Bungona, belonging to the subgenera Chopralla Waltz & McCafferty, 1987 and Centroptella Braasch & Soldán, 1980, are described based on larvae from Kalimantan (Borneo, Indonesia). Bungona (Centroptella) papilionodes n. sp. is the third species described for the subgenus. It can be distinguished from Bungona (Centroptella) longisetosa (Braasch & Soldán, 1980) and Bungona (Centroptella) soldani (Müller-Liebenau, 1983) by the length of the maxillary palp, the presence or absence of an additional small denticle on the lateral margin of the distal incisor, and the spination of the paraproct. This new report of the subgenus greatly increases its geographic range of distribution, as it was known only from Sri-Lanka and China. Bungona (Chopralla) bintang n. sp. is the seventh species described for the subgenus Chopralla and the second described from Borneo. It differs from others species of the subgenus and especially from Bungona (Chopralla) pusilla (Müller-Liebenau, 1984) (Borneo) by the combination of lacking hindwing pads, the particular spination of distal margins of tergites, and the shape of the maxillary palp. The two new species fit into the recently revised concepts of Chopralla and Centroptella and confirm the characters used to support these taxa as valid subgenera.
Studies on idiocerine leafhoppers with descriptions of Chinaocerus gen. nov. and three new species from China (Hemiptera: Cicadomorpha: Cicadellidae)
Authors: DANG LI-HONG , ZHANG BIN , LI ZI-ZHONG
Published: March 2016

A new leafhopper genus of the tribe Idiocerini (Hemiptera: Cicadomorpha: Cicadellidae), Chinaocerus, is described from the southwest China together with three new species, C. kangdingensis Zhang & Li sp. nov. (Sichuan Province), C. bispinatus Zhang & Li sp. nov. (Yunnan Province) and C. shii Zhang & Li sp. nov. (Sichuan Province). Descriptions and illustrations of these three new species are provided, and a key for their separation is also given.
Redefinition and revision of African Cosmetra Diakonoff, 1977 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) with description of six new species
Authors: AARVIK LEIF
Published: March 2016

The eight species of Cosmetra Diakonoff present in mainland Africa are described and illustrated. Six new species are described: Cosmetra larseni, new species; C. fibigeri, new species; C. truncana, new species; C. multidentana, new species; C. usambarensis, new species; and C. juu; new species. Cosmetra neka Razowski & Brown is a junior synonym of Cosmetra tumulata (Meyrick), and C. mucronata Razowski & Wojtusiak is a junior synonym of C. spiculifera (Meyrick).
Narrowing the Agronomic Yield Gaps of Maize by Improved Soil, Cultivar, and Agricultural Management Practices in Different Climate Zones of Northeast China
Authors: Liu Zhijuan , Yang Xiaoguang , Lin Xiaomao , Hubbard Kenneth G. , Lv Shuo , Wang Jing
Published: March 2016

Northeast China (NEC) is one of the major agricultural production areas in China, producing about 30% of China’s total maize output. In the past five decades, maize yields in NEC increased rapidly. However, farmer yields still have potential to be increased. Therefore, it is important to quantify the impacts of agronomic factors, including soil physical properties, cultivar selections, and management practices on yield gaps of maize under the changing climate in NEC in order to provide reliable recommendations to narrow down the yield gaps. In this study, the Agricultural Production Systems Simulator (APSIM)-Maize model was used to separate the contributions of soil physical properties, cultivar selections, and management practices to maize yield gaps. The results indicate that approximately 5%, 12%, and 18% of potential yield loss of maize is attributable to soil physical properties, cultivar selection, and management practices. Simulation analyses showed that potential ascensions of yield of maize by improving soil physical properties PAYs, changing to cultivar with longer maturity PAYc, and improving management practices PAYm for the entire region were 0.6, 1.5, and 2.2 ton ha−1 or 9%, 23%, and 34% increases, respectively, in NEC. In addition, PAYc and PAYm varied considerably from location to location (0.4 to 2.2 and 0.9 to 4.5 ton ha−1 respectively), which may be associated with the spatial variation of growing season temperature and precipitation among climate zones in NEC. Therefore, changing to cultivars with longer growing season requirement and improving management practices are the top strategies for improving yield of maize in NEC, especially for the north and west areas.
Meridional Rossby Wave Generation and Propagation in the Maintenance of the Wintertime Tropospheric Double Jet
Authors: O’Rourke Amanda K. , Vallis Geoffrey K.
Published: March 2016

The eddy-driven and subtropical jets are two dynamically distinct features of the midlatitude upper-troposphere circulation that are often merged into a single zonal wind maximum. Nonetheless, the potential for a distinct double-jet state in the atmosphere exists, particularly in the winter hemisphere, and presents a unique zonal-mean flow with two waveguides and an interjet region with a weakened potential vorticity gradient upon which Rossby waves may be generated, propagate, reflect, and break.

The authors investigate the interaction of two groups of atmospheric waves—those with wavelengths longer and shorter than the deformation radius—within a double-jet mean flow in an idealized atmospheric model. Patterns of eddy momentum flux convergence for long and short waves differ greatly. Short waves behave following classic baroclinic instability theory such that their eddy momentum flux convergence is centered at the eddy-driven jet core. Long waves, on the other hand, reveal strong eddy momentum flux convergence along the poleward flank of the eddy-driven jet and within the interjet region. This pattern is enhanced when two jets are present in the zonal-mean zonal wind.