bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of an Integrated Vehicle Chassis Control System with Driver Behavior Identification
Authors: Zhu Bing , Chen Yizhou , Zhao Jian , Su Yunfu
Published: September 2015

An integrated vehicle chassis control strategy with driver behavior identification is introduced in this paper. In order to identify the different types of driver behavior characteristics, a driver behavior signals acquisition system was established using the dSPACE real-time simulation platform, and the driver inputs of 30 test drivers were collected under the double lane change test condition. Then, driver behavior characteristics were analyzed and identified based on the preview optimal curvature model through genetic algorithm and neural network method. Using it as a base, an integrated chassis control strategy with active front steering (AFS) and direct yaw moment control (DYC) considering driver characteristics was established by model predictive control (MPC) method. Finally, simulations were carried out to verify the control strategy by CarSim and MATLAB/Simulink. The results show that the proposed method enables the control system to adjust its parameters according to the driver behavior identification results and the vehicle handling and stability performance are significantly improved.
Active Microbial Communities Inhabit Sulphate-Methane Interphase in Deep Bedrock Fracture Fluids in Olkiluoto, Finland
Authors: Bomberg Malin , Nyyssönen Mari , Pitkänen Petteri , Lehtinen Anne , Itävaara Merja
Published: September 2015

Active microbial communities of deep crystalline bedrock fracture water were investigated from seven different boreholes in Olkiluoto (Western Finland) using bacterial and archaeal 16S rRNA,dsrB, andmcrA gene transcript targeted 454 pyrosequencing. Over a depth range of 296–798 m below ground surface the microbial communities changed according to depth, salinity gradient, and sulphate and methane concentrations. The highest bacterial diversity was observed in the sulphate-methane mixing zone (SMMZ) at 250–350 m depth, whereas archaeal diversity was highest in the lowest boundaries of the SMMZ. Sulphide-oxidizingε-proteobacteria (Sulfurimonassp.) dominated in the SMMZ andγ-proteobacteria (Pseudomonasspp.) below the SMMZ. The active archaeal communities consisted mostly of ANME-2D and Thermoplasmatales groups, although Methermicoccaceae, Methanobacteriaceae, and Thermoplasmatales (SAGMEG, TMG) were more common at 415–559 m depth. Typical indicator microorganisms for sulphate-methane transition zones in marine sediments, such as ANME-1 archaea,α-,β- andδ-proteobacteria, JS1, Actinomycetes, Planctomycetes, Chloroflexi, and MBGB Crenarchaeota were detected at specific depths.DsrB genes were most numerous and most actively transcribed in the SMMZ while themcrA gene concentration was highest in the deep methane rich groundwater. Our results demonstrate that active and highly diverse but sparse and stratified microbial communities inhabit the Fennoscandian deep bedrock ecosystems.
Antigen Selection Shapes the T-cell Repertoire in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Vardi Anna , Agathangelidis Andreas , Stalika Evangelia , Karypidou Maria , Siorenta Alexandra , Anagnostopoulos Achilles , Rosenquist Richard , Hadzidimitriou Anastasia , Ghia Paolo , Sutton Lesley-Ann , Stamatopoulos Kostas
Published: September 2015

Purpose: The role of antigen(s) in shaping the T-cell repertoire in chronic lymphocytic leukemia, although relevant for understanding malignant cell interactions with cognate T cells, is largely unexplored.

Experimental Design: Here we profiled the T-cell receptor β chain gene repertoire in 58 chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients, focusing on cases assigned to well-characterized subsets with stereotyped clonotypic B-cell receptor immunoglobulins, therefore those cases most evidently selected by antigen (subsets #1, #2, and #4).

Results: Remarkable repertoire skewing and oligoclonality were observed, and differences between subsets were noted regarding both T-cell receptor β chain gene usage and the extent of clonality, with subset #2 being the least oligoclonal. Longitudinal analysis of subset #4 cases revealed that although the repertoire may fluctuate over time, certain clonotypes persist, thus alluding to persistent antigenic stimulation. Shared (“stereotyped”) clonotypes were found between different patients, reflecting selection by common antigenic elements. Cross-comparison of our dataset with public databases showed that some T-cell clonotypes may have expanded secondary to common viral infections; however, the majority of clonotypes proved to be disease-specific.

Conclusions: Overall, the T-cell receptor β chain repertoire in chronic lymphocytic leukemia is likely shaped by antigen selection and the implicated antigenic elements may concern epitopes that also select the malignant B-cell progenitors or, more intriguingly, chronic lymphocytic leukemia–derived epitopes. Clin Cancer Res; 22(1); 167–74. ©2015 AACR.
Dual HER2/PIK3CA Targeting Overcomes Single-Agent Acquired Resistance in HER2-Amplified Uterine Serous Carcinoma Cell Lines In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Lopez Salvatore , Cocco Emiliano , Black Jonathan , Bellone Stefania , Bonazzoli Elena , Predolini Federica , Ferrari Francesca , Schwab Carlton L. , English Diana P. , Ratner Elena , Silasi Dan-Arin , Azodi Masoud , Schwartz Peter E. , Terranova Corrado , Angioli Roberto , Santin Alessandro D.
Published: September 2015

HER2/neu gene amplification and PIK3CA driver mutations are common in uterine serous carcinoma (USC) and may represent ideal therapeutic targets against this aggressive variant of endometrial cancer. We examined the sensitivity to neratinib, taselisib, and the combination of the two compounds in in vitro and in vivo experiments using PIK3CA-mutated and PIK3CA wild-type HER2/neu–amplified USC cell lines. Cell viability and cell-cycle distribution were assessed using flow-cytometry assays. Downstream signaling was assessed by immunoblotting. Preclinical efficacy of single versus dual inhibition was evaluated in vivo using two USC xenografts. We found both single-agent neratinib and taselisib to be active but only transiently effective in controlling the in vivo growth of USC xenografts harboring HER2/neu gene amplification with or without oncogenic PIK3CA mutations. In contrast, the combination of the two inhibitors caused a stronger and long-lasting growth inhibition in both USC xenografts when compared with single-agent therapy. Combined targeting of HER2 and PIK3CA was associated with a significant and dose-dependent increase in the percentage of cells in the G0–G1 phase of the cell cycle and a dose-dependent decline in the phosphorylation of S6. Importantly, dual inhibition therapy initiated after tumor progression in single-agent–treated mice was still remarkably effective at inducing tumor regression in both large PIK3CA and pan-ErbB inhibitor–resistant USC xenografts. Dual HER2/PIK3CA blockade may represent a novel therapeutic option for USC patients harboring tumors with HER2/neu gene amplification and mutated or wild-type PIK3CA resistant to chemotherapy. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(11); 2519–26. ©2015 AACR.
Acute Psychogeriatric Inpatient Treatment Improves Neuropsychiatric Symptoms but Impairs the Level of Functioning in Patients with Dementia
Authors: Alanen Hanna-Mari , Pitkänen Anneli , Suontaka-Jamalainen Kirsti , Kampman Olli , Leinonen Esa
Published: September 2015

Aims: To explore the impact of hospitalization on neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) and the level of functioning in patients with dementia. Our aim was also to study the influence of psychotropic medications. Methods: Behavioral disturbances, cognition and functional status of 89 patients were assessed using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), Mini-Mental State Examination, Barthel Index, and Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study-Activities of Daily Living (ADCSADL). Results: The total NPI score decreased from 34.6 to 19.5 (p < 0.001), and ADL decreased from 32.2 to 21.7 (p < 0.001) during the hospital stay (mean of 44 days). For a change in ADL, only the effect of anxiolytics was significant (p = 0.045). For a change in NPI with antipsychotic and anxiolytic doses and Mini-Mental State Examination as covariates, no significant relationship was found. Conclusion: NPS improved significantly during hospitalization, but neither antipsychotic nor anxiolytic medication use explained this improvement. In patients using anxiolytics, the functional decline was substantial. These results do not support anxiolytic use in demented patients with NPS.
SPAG9 May Be a Potential Prognostic Marker of Endometrial Hyperplasia and Grade 1 Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma Treated with Progestin
Authors: Li Chunyan , Bai Yun , Yan Lei , Zhang Lu , Zhang Hui , Li Mingjiang , Zhao Miaoqing , Gao Yan , Zhao Xingbo
Published: September 2015

Background: Sperm-associated antigen 9 (SPAG9), a recently characterized oncogene, may serve as a marker for the early diagnosis of endometrial cancer. However, whether SPAG9 can be a prognostic marker of complex atypical endometrial hyperplasia (CAEH) or grade 1 endometrioid adenocarcinoma (EA) treated with progestin is still unknown. Methods: Progestin therapy was performed in 27 women diagnosed with CAEH (19/27, CAEH group) or grade 1 EA (8/27, EA group). The expression of SPAG9 was measured in pre and post progestin-treated endometrial specimens by immunohistochemistry. The expression of SPAG9 was also examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot in Ishikawa cells and ECC-1 cells with or without progestin treatment. Results: (1) CAEH showed a significantly better therapeutic efficacy than EA. (2) The expression of SPAG9 was lower in CAEH than in EA. (3) SPAG9 expression significantly declined in the endometrial tissues of women responding to progestin. (4) Significant downregulations of SPAG9 were validated by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and Western blot both in Ishikawa cells and ECC-1 cells treated with progestin. Conclusion: SPAG9 may be associated with the efficacy of progestin treatment in CAEH and grade 1 EA. It may help to distinguish CAEH from grade 1 EA and serve as a new prognostic marker of CAEH or grade 1 EA treated with progestin.
Writing Impairments in Japanese Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment and with Mild Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Hayashi Atsuko , Nomura Hiroshi , Mochizuki Ruriko , Ohnuma Ayumu , Kimpara Teiko , Suzuki Kyoko , Mori Etsuro
Published: September 2015

Background/Aims: We investigated writing abilities in patients with the amnestic type of mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and mild Alzheimer's disease (AD). To examine the earliest changes in writing function, we used writing tests for both words and sentences with different types of Japanese characters (Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji). Methods: A total of 25 aMCI patients, 38 AD patients, and 22 healthy controls performed writing to dictation for Kana and Kanji words, copied Kanji words, and wrote in response to a picture story task. Analysis of variance was used to test the subject group effects on the scores in the above writing tasks. Results: For the written Kanji words, the mild AD group performed worse than the aMCI group and the controls, but there was no difference between the aMCI group and the controls. For the picture story writing task, the mild AD and aMCI groups performed worse than the controls, but the difference between the AD and the aMCI groups was not significant. Conclusions: The mild AD group showed defects in writing Kanji characters, and the aMCI group showed impairments in narrative writing. Our study suggests that narrative writing, which demands complex integration of multiple cognitive functions, can be used to detect the subtle writing deficits in aMCI patients.
Telomere Length of Human Adult Bronchial Epithelium and Bronchogenic Squamous Cell Carcinoma Measured Using Tissue Quantitative Fluorescence in situ Hybridization
Authors: Aida Shinsuke , Aida Junko , Hasegawa Kayo , Kumasaka Toshio , Shimazaki Hideyuki , Tamai Seiichi , Takubo Kaiyo
Published: September 2015

Background: Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences located at the ends of chromosomes. Chromosomal and genomic instability due to telomere dysfunction has been known to play an important role in the carcinogenesis of some organs. Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the correlation between smoking and the telomere length of human bronchial epithelial cells in individuals with and without lung cancer. Patients and Methods: We examined 68 non-lung cancer adult autopsy cases and 24 surgically resected cases of lung squamous cell carcinoma. Telomere lengths of the basal cells of bronchial epithelium were measured using the tissue quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization method and were expressed in normalized telomere-to-centromere ratios (NTCRs). Results: The autopsied individuals included 27 current smokers (CuS), 33 never-smokers (NeS), and 8 ex-smokers (ExS). The NTCRs in the central bronchi of CuS, NeS, and ExS were 1.515, 1.372, and 1.204, respectively. The bronchial epithelial telomeres of CuS were significantly longer than those of non-CuS (NeS + ExS). When the analysis was conducted separately for females and males, a significant difference between CuS and NeS + ExS was recognized only for males. The NTCRs of the bronchial epithelium of lung cancer cases and lung cancer tissue are 1.514 and 1.385, respectively. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that smoking causes telomeric elongation in the bronchial epithelium. Therefore, it appears that the mechanism of carcinogenesis in smoking-related carcinomas may differ from that of many other carcinomas in which genetic instability due to aging-related telomeric shortening is assumed to play a role.
Radiotherapy of Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
Authors: Krug David , Souchon Rainer
Published: September 2015

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a heterogeneous disease in both its biology and clinical course. In the past, recurrence rates after breast-conserving surgery have been as high as 30% after 10 years. The introduction of mammography screening and advances in imaging have led to an increase in the detection of DCIS. The focus of this review is on the role of radiotherapy in the multidisciplinary treatment, including current developments in hypofractionation and boost delivery, and attempts to define low-risk subsets of DCIS for which the need for adjuvant radiation is repeatedly questioned.
Gly388Arg FGFR4 Polymorphism Is Not Predictive of Everolimus Efficacy in Well-Differentiated Digestive Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Cros Jerome , Moati Emilie , Raffenne Jerome , Hentic Olivia , Svrcek Magali , de Mestier Louis , Sbidian Emilie , Guedj Nathalie , Bedossa Pierre , Paradis Valerie , Sauvanet Alain , Panis Yves , Ruszniewski Philippe , Couvelard Anne , Hammel Pascal
Published: September 2015

Introduction: Preclinical data suggest that the single nucleotide polymorphism substituting a glycine for an arginine in codon 388 of the FGFR4 transmembrane domain may increase the proliferation of xenografted neuroendocrine cell lines and decrease their sensitivity to everolimus by modulating STAT3 signaling and the mTOR pathway. Aim: To evaluate the prognostic and predictive values of this polymorphism on everolimus efficacy in patients treated for digestive neuroendocrine tumor (NET). Patients and Methods: This monocentric retrospective cohort included patients with small bowel NET (SBNET) and pancreatic NET (PNET) treated with everolimus (2006-2013). The patients were genotyped by classical sequencing, and mTOR pathway activity was assessed by immunochemistry on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples (PTEN/pPTEN/pAKT/pmTOR/pS6/p4EBP1). Results: Forty-one patients (21 males, median age 57 years) with PNET (n = 28), SBNET (n = 12) or NET of unknown origin (n = 1), grade 1 (n = 8), 2 (n = 27), 3 (n = 3) or unknown grade (n = 3), were studied. At least one 388Arg allele was found in 14/23 PNET and 10/11 SBNET. Progression-free survival in the whole population and the PNET subgroup was not influenced by the presence of one or two 388Arg alleles [HR = 1.31 (0.58-2.99), p = 0.52 and HR = 1.11 (0.45-2.73), p = 0.82, respectively]. Similarly, overall survival was not influenced. Finally, mTOR pathway molecule expression was not modified by the presence of at least one 388Arg allele. Conclusion: The Gly388Arg FGFR4 polymorphism does not seem to have a prognostic value in digestive NET. In addition, it neither predicts the response to everolimus nor modifies the activation of the mTOR pathway.
Therapy with activated prothrombin complex concentrate is effective in reducing dabigatran-associated blood loss in a porcine polytrauma model
Authors: Honickel Markus , Maron Benjamin , Ryn Joanne van , Braunschweig Till , Cate Hugo ten , Spronk Henri M. H. , Rossaint Rolf , Grottke Oliver
Published: September 2015

Clinical use of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants is increasingly well established. However, specific agents for reversal of these drugs are not currently available. It was to objective of this study to investigate the impact of activated prothrombin complex concentrate (aPCC) on the anticoagulant effects of dabigatran in a randomised, controlled, porcine trauma model. Twenty-one pigs received oral and intravenous dabigatran, resulting in supratherapeutic plasma concentrations. Twelve minutes after injury (standardised bilateral femur fractures and blunt liver injury), animals (n=7/group) received 25 or 50 U/kg aPCC (aPCC25 and aPCC50) or placebo (control) and were followed for 5 hours. The primary endpoint was total volume of blood loss (BL). Haemodynamic and coagulation variables (prothrombin time [PT], activated partial thromboplastin time, diluted thrombin time, thrombin–antithrombin complexes, thromboelastometry, thrombin generation and D-dimers) were measured. Twelve minutes post-injury, BL was similar between groups. Compared with control (total BL: 3807 ± 570 ml) and aPCC25 (3690 ± 454 ml; p=0.77 vs control), a significant reduction in total BL (1639 ± 276 ml; p< 0.0001) and improved survival (p< 0.05) was observed with aPCC50. Dabigatran’s anticoagulant effects were effectively treated in the aPCC50 group, as measured by several parameters including EXTEM clotting time (CT) and PT. In contrast, with aPCC25, laboratory values were initially corrected but subsequently deteriorated due to ongoing blood loss. Thromboembolic or bleeding effects were not detected. In conclusion, blood loss following trauma in dabigatran-anticoagulated pigs was successfully reduced by 50 U/kg aPCC. Optimal methodology for measuring amelioration of dabigatran anticoagulation by aPCC is yet to be determined.
Risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with splenic injury and splenectomy
Authors: Lin Jiun-Nong , Chen Hsuan-Ju , Lin Ming-Chia , Lai Chung-Hsu , Lin Hsi-Hsun , Yang Chih-Hui , Kao Chia-Hung
Published: September 2015

The spleen is a crucial organ in humans. However, little is known about the association of venous thromboembolism (VTE) with splenic injury and splenectomy in trauma patients. The aim of this study was to determine the subsequent risk of VTE following splenic injury and splenectomy. A nationwide retrospective cohort study was conducted by analysing data from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. We included 6,162 splenic injury patients (3,033 splenectomised and 3,129 nonsplenectomised patients) and 24,648 comparison patients who were selected by frequency match based on sex, age, and the index year during 2000–2006. All patients were followed until the occurrence of VTE, 31 December, 2011, death, or withdrawal from the insurance program. The age of patients with splenic injury was 41.93 ± 16.44 years. The incidence rates of VTE were 11.81, 8.46, and 5.21 per 10,000 person-years in the splenic injury patients with splen -ectomy, splenic injury patients without splenectomy, and comparison patients, respectively. Compared with the comparison cohort, splenic injury patients with splenectomy exhibited a 2.21-fold risk of VTE (95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.43–3.43), whereas those without splenectomy exhibited a 1.71-fold risk of VTE (95 % CI, 1.05–2.80). The overall incidence rate of VTE was 1.97-fold higher in the splenic injury cohort than the comparison cohort (95 % CI, 1.38–2.81). Although splenectomy increased the risk of VTE 1.35-fold compared with no splenectomy, the difference was not statistically significant (95 % CI, 0.74–2.45). These results may alert physicians and patients to the complications of splenic injury and splenectomy.
Prevention of cardiovascular events with antiplatelet treatment: does time of intake matter for aspirin and ADP receptor blockers?
Authors: Aradi Dániel , Sibbing Dirk , Gross Lisa
Published: September 2015

Long-term evidence supports a clustering of cardiovascular events in the early morning. Several studies have shown that platelet hyper-reactivity to various stimuli is also present at this period of the day. However, the idea of treatment strategies reflecting the circadian variation in platelet reactivity has been largely neglected so far, and this is true despite the huge number of patients being treated with these drugs. Some pharmacodynamic data suggest that early-morning platelet hyper-reactivity may be overcome by shifting aspirin intake to the bedtime. However, there is lack of evidence whether shifting the time of intake or splitting the daily dose of P2Y12-inhibitors with a regular QD dosing (clopidogrel or prasugrel) to the evening would be effective to overcome platelet hyper-reactivity or to suppress the excess of cardiovascular events observed during morning hours. Further research is warranted to clarify whether such a simple and costless effort like dose shifting or splitting may be beneficial to prevent cardiovascular events.
The Qubbat al-Ṣaḫrah in the 12th Century
Authors: Di Cesare Michelina
Published: September 2015

This paper investigates the reasons for the unexpected importance acquired by theQubbat al-Ṣaḫrahin Crusader Jerusalem and its relationship to the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher. It will be argued that Crusader pilgrims regarded theQubbat al-Ṣaḫrahas the eschatological Temple or Solomon’s Temple because of their knowledge of the Scriptures and local Jewish and Islamic traditions regarding the Temple Mount/ḥaram al-šarīf. Consequently, the Crusader rulers’ adaptation of theQubbat al-Ṣaḫrahas the church of theTemplum Dominiand its identification as Herod’s Temple will be explained as a reaction to these interpretations, which risked re-establishing the pre-Christian centrality of the Temple, thus jeopardizing the supremacy of the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher.
Microfinance in Iran: a Case Study of the Rural Microfinance Support Project
Authors: Di Pucchio Yasmine
Published: September 2015

Microfinance programs in Iran began to be implemented at the end of the 1990s thanks to both the local government and international organizations’ efforts to eradicate poverty. Today microfinance is a growing sector in the country and has been officially recognized by the Iranian government, which included its development as one of the main points of the last Five Year Development Plan. A number of efficient microfinance programs are active in Iran among which the Rural Microfinance Support Project, promoted by the Iranian Agricultural Bank and ifad, stands out. The following study is an attempt to identify the impact of this program on women empowerment and poverty reduction through a research conducted on a sample of one hundred women clients of the program in the province of Šabestar, East Azerbaijan.
In Other Words: The Ethics of the Translator in 17th-century al-Andalus. The Perspective of Aḥmad Ibn Qāsim al-Ḥaǧarī al-Andalusī
Authors: Sciortino Maria Grazia
Published: September 2015

This study focuses on a particular aspect of the Translation Studies orDirāsāt al-tarǧamah, i.e. the ethics of the translator.

Starting from the analysis of concepts like “cultural otherness” or “linguistic hospitality”, theorized by Antoine Berman, Lawrence Venuti and Paul Ricoeur, and concerning the translator’s process of mediating between languages and between cultures, it will be taken into account the specific case of a muslim traveller and interpreter, Aḥmad ibn Qāsim al-Ḥaǧarī al-Andalusī (d. 1051/1641), author of theKitāb Nāṣir al-dīn ʿalà l-qawm al-kāfirīn, who was asked, by a Christian authority (the Archbishop of Granada), to translate some Arabic manuscripts.

In such a context, the act of translating highlights not only the problem of hermeneutics and inter-religious dialogue, as interpretation of a different text and a different faith’s language, but also the problem of ethic relationships inherent in encounteringthe Other.
The Latin Translation of the Qurʾān by Johann Zechendorff (1580-1662) Discovered in Cairo Dār al-Kutub
Authors: Tottoli Roberto
Published: September 2015

The manuscript Maṣāḥif 198 of Cairo Dār al-kutub preserves an interlinear Latin translation of the Qurʾān. It is the work by Johann Zechendorff (1580-1662) who made it in the first half of the seventeenth century but could not find a publisher for it. Handwriting and further information from his published booklets on the Qurʾān confirm this. Zechendorff copied the Qurʾānic text from a manuscript of the Qurʾān he had acquired and produced an Arabic text which he translated inserting the corresponding Latin for each word. Notes in margin correct some inconsistencies and add comments from various sources. The manuscript as a whole is a unique testimony on the way a western scholar of the Qurʾān dealt with the Muslim holy text. Further, it is a new complete translation of the Qurʾān from the seventeenth century, which is brought to the attention of scholars.
Revision der Gattung Conostomum (Musci, Bartramiaceae)
Authors: Frahm Jan-Peter , Börner Heike , Streiber Nikola , Wallau Bernd , Weitkus Stefan
Published: September 2015

The fiftteen species so far comprised in the genus Conostomum are reduced to seven. Conostomum aequinoctiale Schimp. ex C. Müll., C. lorentzii C. Müll., C. pentastichum (Brid.) Lindb., C. pusillum Hook. f. et Wils., and C. speirostichum C. Müll. are regarded as conspecific with C. tetragonum (Hedw.) Lindb. Conostomum giganteum Bartr. & Dix. is not identical with C. pentastichum but a good species. It was known so far only from the type locality in New Zealand but is more widespread and newly recorded from Australia and the Campbell Islands. Conostomum crassinervium P. Varde described and only known from Mt. Kenya is spirally foliate and does not show the 5 ranked areolation typical for the genus. Since it is sterile, its placement in Conostomum is dubious.
Bryophytes and Lichens of Aldabra
Authors: Seaward M. R.D. , Hambler C. , Aptroot A.
Published: September 2015

Collections of bryophytes and lichens made during expeditions to Aldabra in 1981 and 1983 are reported: in all, two hepatics, three mosses and eleven lichens, of which thirteen are new to Aldabra, have been determined from a variety of substrata.
Bryophytes from the Republic of Equatorial Guinea (West-Central Africa) II.
Bryophytes collected by Emilio Guinea (1907-1985) in the Island of Bioco in 1947.

Authors: Infante M. , Heras P. , Buck W. R.
Published: September 2015

Some unidentified samples of bryophytes collected by Emilio Guinea in Bioco (Equatorial Guinea) in 1947 have been studied. Twenty-seven taxa are the result of this study, nine of them being new for Equatorial Guinea and two new for the island of Bioco.
Contributions toward a Bryoflora of the Aberdare Range, Kenya
Authors: Chuah-Petiot Min S.
Published: September 2015

124 species of bryophytes, belonging to 46 families are reported for the Aberdare Mountains, of which 58 species are new for the Aberdares and 6 records are new for Kenya, indicated by * and ** respectively. The wetter, more humid southern and south-eastern parts of the range contain the greatest diversity of species, particularly in the montane forests while the drier northern part is poor in species.
A review of the genera Cleigastra Macquart, Gonarcticus Becker, Gonatherus Rondani, Hexamitocera Becker, Nanna Strobl, Orthacheta Becker and Spathephilus Becker (Diptera, Scathophagidae) of Russia
Authors: OZEROV A.L. , KRIVOSHEINA M.G.
Published: September 2015

Flies of the genera Cleigastra Macquart, 1835, Gonarcticus Becker, 1894, Gonatherus Rondani, 1856, Hexamitocera Becker, 1894, Nanna Strobl, 1894, Orthacheta Becker, 1894 and Spathephilus Becker, 1894 (all Scathophagidae) of the fauna of Russia are reviewed. Key to genera, generic descriptions and keys for determination of species are given, and data on geographical distribution are summarized. One species, Nanna cryophila sp. nov., is described as new to science. One new synonymy is proposed: Nanna kamtschatkense (Hendel, 1930) = Nanna tibiella (Zetterstedt, 1838). Orthacheta cornuta (Loew, 1863) is recorded from Europe for the first time. Gonarcticus arcticus (Becker, 1907) is newly recorded from the Palaearctic Region and Russia. Additionally, Nanna flavipes (Fallén, 1819) is newly recorded from China, and Spathephilus nigriventris (Loew, 1864) is newly recorded from Kazakhstan.
A new species of Parapharyngodon (Nematoda: Pharyngodonidae) infecting Dermatonotus muelleri (Anura: Microhylidae) from Caatinga, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: FILHO JOÃO A. DE ARAUJO , BRITO SAMUEL V. , ALMEIDA WALTÉCIO DE O. , MORAIS DRAUSIO H. , ÁVILA ROBSON W.
Published: September 2015

Parapharyngodon silvoi n. sp. (Nematoda: Pharyngodonidae) is described from the large and small intestine of the Muller’s termite frog Dermatonotus muelleri (Boettger, 1885) from the biome Caatinga, Exu municipality, Pernambuco State, Brazil, Dermatonotus muelleri is a fossorial species with a specialized termite diet, and feeding and reproductive behavior occurring only during the wet season. The new species is distinguished from other species of the genus Parapharyngodon by showing ovary not coiled around the esophagus, morphology of anterior cloacal lip, spicule size and number of caudal papillae.
Third report of Allochaetophoridae Reck, 1959 (Acari: Trombidiformes) based on the description of a new species from Iran
Authors: MAHDAVI SAYED MOSAYEB , ASADI MAHDIEH
Published: September 2015

A new mite species Allochaetophora iranica sp. nov. (Tetranychoidea: Allochaetophoridae), is described and illustrated based on females and deutonymphs collected from Phragmites australis (Poaceae) in Iran (Kerman Province). This is the third report of the family Allochaetophoridae for the world and first report of it from Asia.
A new polymorphic Hemilophini Thomson, 1868 from the Tumuc Humac inselbergs, French Guiana (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae)
Authors: TOUROULT JULIEN , DALENS PIERRE-HENRI
Published: September 2015

A new Zeale Pascoe, 1866, Zeale granvillei sp. nov., is described from open areas at Mitaraka Mounts, French Guiana. The key to the species of Zeale is updated and the different forms of the new species are illustrated. A list of the material from Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle (Paris) in this genus is provided. Some aspects of its behavior are given, including its possible host plant, Ichtyothere granvillei H. Robinson (Asteraceae).
Wbudowane pozycje argumentowe a intensjonalna zupełność propozycji
Authors: Banasiak Jakub
Published: September 2015

Built in argument positions and the propositions intensional completenessThe paper discusses issues concerning the potential influence of built in argument positions on the propositions intensional completeness. According to the chosen scientific approach the distribution of determiners is a reflex of the propositions completeness, there seem to exist however such structures in which one of the argument positions is blocked due to being built into the predicate. The intensional value of such positions may vary and theoretically reflect the propositions definiteness / indefiniteness (intensional completeness). Predicates such as: търся implicate a locative argument position, which is inherently indefinite, but does not seem to reflect the distribution of determiners.
Sylaba w gwarze Moravy e Epërme
Authors: Dargiel Karolina
Published: September 2015

Syllable pattern in Morava e Epërme local dialect of AlbanianThis article summarizes the first part of a research on syllable pattern in Kosovo dialects. It attempts to answer the question, whether Kosovo dialects have one-peak syllable pattern, two-peak syllable pattern or maybe some other type. Facing many theories about the syllabic unit, that have been created until now, for our study we choose the sonority theory, which is a very comfortable model for formulating distributional rules of speech sounds.Standard Albanian language is untypical against other European languages. This is due to the fact that it tolerates two-peak homorganic consonant clusters [NO-] in word initial position (mb-, mp-, nd-, ŋg-, nʣ-, ɲɟ-). Two-peak clusters in word final position are not accepted; consonants are always separated by vowel [ә]. What we observe in Standard Albanian is rather one-peak syllable pattern, where the hierarchy of sonority in the syllable is obeyed, but the least sonorous nasal sonorants should be classified to the distributional group of obstruents. And how does it look like in other Albanian dialects?For our study we have chosen several Kosovo dialects, which seem the most relevant for the examined problems. In this article I deal with the local dialect of Morava e Epërme, where I have studied the following issues:[SO-] initial clusters (including clusters with liquids l and rr),*[-OS] final clusters,Clusters [-OSO-] with an interobstruental sonorant,Consonantal proclitics on strong morphological borders (t’, m’, n’, s’),Occurences of vowel [ә]. Does it have phoneme status in this local dialect?Can sonorants and obstruents be syllabic?Our study has proved, that [NO-] initial clusters have tendency for reduction: [mbyt], [ŋuʃt] instead of [mbyt], [ŋguʃt, whereas sporadic occurence of the two-peak initial clusters lO-, rrO- is phonetically conditioned (it means that this form occurs only after vowels [m‿ka‿ʎʃu:], [mu‿Rʣu:]).Final *[-OS] clusters in Morava e Epërme, as in the standard Albanian, are completely extinct (they are usually split by vowel [ә]: [vetәm ktu], [natәn], [θupәr]). Th same referes to the clusters [-OSO-], which usually occur with the syllabic sonorant or inserted vowel schwa [ә].Dialect of Morava e Epërme tolerates syllabic sonorants and in some contexts also syllabic obstruents.The vowel [ә] appears very often, but never in unmotivated position. Therefore we can conclude that this sound does not have the phoneme status in this dialect.Dialect of Morava e Epërme neither has the typical one-peak syllable pattern (it tolerates two-peak initial clusters), nor it has a two-peak syllable model (it does not tolerate two-peak final clusters). This local dialect can be classified, the same as standard Albanian, as a one with one-peak syllable pattern, where, however, nasal sonorants should be distributionally classified as obstruents (and not as sonorants).
Линеаризација на именските синтагми во простата реченица на македонскиот јазик наспрема останатите словенски јазици (теорија и методи на опис)
Authors: Миленковска [Milenkovska] Соња [Sonja]
Published: September 2015

Linearization of NP in simple sentences in Macedonian compared with other Slavic languagesThis article focuses on the possible marked variants of the unmarked word order SVO (Subject, Verb, Object) in simple sentences in Macedonian (as an analytic language) compared with simple sentences in the predominant part of the Slavic languages (with synthetic declension).It also presents theories used as a basis for the analysis of the order of sentence components (represented by NPs), as well as methods applied in course of the collection and analysis of the relevant examples.
Strelica je pogodila grješnika – o pewnym problemie pisowni chorwackiej w świetle danych komputerowego korpusu języka
Authors: Molas Jerzy
Published: September 2015

Strelica je pogodila grješnika – a certain issue of the Croatian orthography in light of the Croatian National Corpus dataBased on the Croatian National Corpus data the author presents inconsistencies in the spelling rules regarding words like str(j)elica, gr(j)ešnik which are described in Croatian orthographic dictionaries. The paper addresses also the discrepancies between orthographic norm and how it is reflected in the real Croatian texts, as well as the ideological reasons for these differences.
Określenia mężczyzny w żargonie zagrzebskim
Authors: Pintarić Neda
Published: September 2015

Man in Argot of ZagrebThe paper deals with the pragmasemantic classification of 879 masculin noun-pragmems in Zagrebian argot. The author compares those pragmatic units by using formal, semantic and pragmatic criteria of classification.
Application of Bayesian Model Averaging in the Reconstruction of Past Climate Change Using PMIP3/CMIP5 Multimodel Ensemble Simulations
Authors: Fang M. , Li X.
Published: September 2015

Climate change simulations based on climate models are inevitably uncertain. This uncertainty typically stems from parametric and structural uncertainties in climate models as well as climate forcings. However, combining model simulations with instrumental observations using appropriate statistical methods is an effective approach for describing this uncertainty. In this study, the authors applied Bayesian model averaging (BMA), a statistical postprocessing method, to an ensemble of climate model simulations from the Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project phase 3 (PMIP3) and phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5). Uncertainties, weights, and variances of individual model simulations were estimated from a training period using the National Centers for Environmental Prediction–National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP–NCAR) reanalysis dataset. The results presented here demonstrate that the BMA method is successful and attains a positive performance in this study. These results show that the selected proxy-based reconstructions and simulations are consistent with BMA estimates regarding climate variability in the past 1000 years, though differences can be found for some periods. The authors conclude that BMA is an effective tool for describing uncertainties associated with individual model simulations, as it accounts for the diverse capabilities of different models and generates a more credible range of past climate change over a relatively long-term period based on multimodel ensemble simulations and training data.
Predicting Successful Aging at One Hundred Years of Age
Authors: Araújo Lia , Ribeiro Oscar , Teixeira Laetitia , Paúl Constança
Published: September 2015

Objective:

The present study is based upon a multidimensional model of successful aging. It aims to identify subgroups of centenarians sharing communalities in successful aging profiles, and determine the role of sociodemographic factors and psychological, social, and economic resources on successful aging.

Methods:

A total of 80 centenarians were face-to-face interviewed. A cluster analysis was performed to identify distinct groups of successful aging, and logistic regression models were performed considering the cluster membership as dependent covariate.

Results:

Two distinct clusters were grouped, with 40 centenarians in each, one of them presenting better results in all domains. Male sex and better income adequacy were the best predictors of successful aging.

Conclusion:

Results help to identity different patterns of successful aging and provide greater clarity regarding its correlates, increasing current understanding of its modifiable aspects.
Searching for Cedar
Authors: Willson Thomas J. , Shams Alexandra , Lospinoso Joshua , Weitzel Erik , McMains Kevin
Published: September 2015

Objective

To assess the effect of a single aeroallergen on Internet search activity in 3 distinct geographic regions over time.

Study Design

A retrospective time series analysis.

Setting

Tertiary academic medical center.

Methods

Mountain Cedar pollen counts spanning the periods from 2011 to 2014 were collected for San Antonio, Dallas–Ft Worth, and Houston metro regions (Texas). Google search data for the corresponding period and regions were also obtained for the search terms pollen and mountain cedar. Data were analyzed through time series plots and autoregressive integrated moving average.

Results

Seasonal maximum pollen counts were greatest in San Antonio, ranging from 5413 to 9982 grains per cubic centimeter. In San Antonio, there was a strong, positive, and statistically significant effect of mountain cedar pollen count on search activity for both pollen (P =. 001) and mountain cedar (P <. 001) when evaluated by autoregressive integrated moving average.

Conclusions

Environmental levels of a single allergen—mountain cedar pollen—show a geographic and temporal relationship between Internet searches and mountain cedar pollen, based on Google Trends. These data are useful to understand patients’ perceptions of the health risk presented by mountain cedar pollen. In turn, this information affords practitioners the opportunity to offer targeted patient education in a geographically unique region, as well as adjust surveillance of related pathologies.
Fatigue behaviour of Al/steel dissimilar resistance spot welds fabricated using Al–Mg interlayer
Authors: Ibrahim I. , Ito R. , Kakiuchi T. , Uematsu Y. , Yun K. , Matsuda C.
Published: September 2015

Aluminium alloy sheets were joined to stainless steel ones by a resistance spot welding method using Al–Mg alloy interlayer. The interlayer exhibits a lower melting point than the Al alloy. Consequently, melted interlayer with a lower temperature filled the gap between the two sheets and resulted in effective joining. Subsequently, tensile shear fatigue tests had been conducted to evaluate fatigue strength and to determine the fatigue fracture mechanism. Resistance spot welding dissimilar welds exhibited higher fatigue strengths than friction stir spot welded dissimilar ones. Fatigue fracture modes were dependent on the load levels, where plug type fracture occurred at high load levels, shear fracture through the nugget at medium load levels and through thickness fatigue crack propagation in the Al sheet at low load levels. The fracture mode transition was attributed to the geometrical rotation around the nugget.
Estimation of long-term creep strength in austenitic power plant steels
Authors: Zieliński A. , Golański G. , Sroka M. , Dobrzański J.
Published: September 2015

This paper presents the characteristics of the performance of austenitic steel Super 304H and HR3C used for construction of boilers with supercritical and ultra-supercritical steam parameters. Characteristic microstructure images of the examined steels in the as received condition observed with the scanning electron microscope are shown. The method for strength assessment based on abridged creep tests carried out at a temperature higher than the design one is presented on the example of examined steels. It has been demonstrated that the obtained results do not deviate from the values of creep strength determined in long-term creep tests. The maximum difference is ± 20%, which is in compliance with the acceptable scatter band. The presented methodology can be used for verification of creep strength.
Past climate change on Sky Islands drives novelty in a core developmental gene network and its phenotype
Authors: Favé Marie-Julie , Johnson Robert A. , Cover Stefan , Handschuh Stephan , Metscher Brian D. , Müller Gerd B. , Gopalan Shyamalika , Abouheif Ehab
Published: September 2015

Background

A fundamental and enduring problem in evolutionary biology is to understand how populations differentiate in the wild, yet little is known about what role organismal development plays in this process. Organismal development integrates environmental inputs with the action of gene regulatory networks to generate the phenotype. Core developmental gene networks have been highly conserved for millions of years across all animals, and therefore, organismal development may bias variation available for selection to work on. Biased variation may facilitate repeatable phenotypic responses when exposed to similar environmental inputs and ecological changes. To gain a more complete understanding of population differentiation in the wild, we integrated evolutionary developmental biology with population genetics, morphology, paleoecology and ecology. This integration was made possible by studying how populations of the ant speciesMonomorium emersonirespond to climatic and ecological changes across five ‘Sky Islands’ in Arizona, which are mountain ranges separated by vast ‘seas’ of desert. Sky Islands represent a replicated natural experiment allowing us to determine how repeatable is the response ofM. emersonipopulations to climate and ecological changes at the phenotypic, developmental, and gene network levels.

Results

We show that a core developmental gene network and its phenotype has kept pace with ecological and climate change on each Sky Island over the last ∼90,000 years before present (BP). This response has produced two types of evolutionary change within an ant species: one type is unpredictable and contingent on the pattern of isolation of Sky lsland populations by climate warming, resulting in slight changes in gene expression, organ growth, and morphology. The other type is predictable and deterministic, resulting in the repeated evolution of a novel wingless queen phenotype and its underlying gene network in response to habitat changes induced by climate warming.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal dynamics of developmental gene network evolution in wild populations. This holds important implications: (1) for understanding how phenotypic novelty is generated in the wild; (2) for providing a possible bridge between micro- and macroevolution; and (3) for understanding how development mediates the response of organisms to past, and potentially, future climate change.
Microvascular reactivity and clinical outcomes in cardiac surgery
Authors: Kim Tae Kyong , Cho Youn Joung , Min Jeong Jin , Murkin John M. , Bahk Jae-Hyon , Hong Deok Man , Jeon Yunseok
Published: September 2015

Introduction

Microvascular reactivity is decreased in patients with septic shock; this is associated with worse clinical outcomes. The objectives of the present study were to investigate microvascular reactivity in cardiac surgery patients and to assess any association with clinical outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed a prospectively collected registry. In total, 254 consecutive adult patients undergoing cardiac and thoracic aortic surgeries from January 2013 through May 2014 were analyzed. We performed a vascular occlusion test (VOT) by using near-infrared spectroscopy to measure microvascular reactivity. VOT was performed three times per patient: prior to the induction of anesthesia, at the end of surgery, and on postoperative day 1. The primary endpoint was a composite of major adverse complications, including death, myocardial infarction, acute kidney injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and persistent cardiogenic shock.

Results

VOT recovery slope decreased during the surgery. VOT recovery slope on postoperative day 1 was significantly lower in patients with composite complications than those without (3.1 ± 1.6 versus 4.0 ± 1.5 %/s, P = 0.001), although conventional hemodynamic values, such as cardiac output and blood pressure, did not differ between the groups. On multivariable regression and linear analyses, low VOT recovery slope on postoperative day 1 was associated with increases of composite complications (odds ratio 0.742; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.584 to 0.943; P = 0.015) and hospital length of stay (regression coefficient (B) −1.276; 95 % CI −2.440 to −0.112; P = 0.032).

Conclusion

Microvascular reactivity largely recovered on postoperative day 1 in the patients without composite complications, but this restoration was attenuated in patients with composite complications.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01713192. Registered 22 October 2012.