bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zone-Based Routing Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Venkateswarlu Kumaramangalam Muni , Adiyapatham Kandasamy , Kandasamy Chandrasekaran
Published: November 2014

Extensive research happening across the globe witnessed the importance of Wireless Sensor Network in the present day application world. In the recent past, various routing algorithms have been proposed to elevate WSN network lifetime. Clustering mechanism is highly successful in conserving energy resources for network activities and has become promising field for researches. However, the problem of unbalanced energy consumption is still open because the cluster head activities are tightly coupled with role and location of a particular node in the network. Several unequal clustering algorithms are proposed to solve this wireless sensor network multihop hot spot problem. Current unequal clustering mechanisms consider only intra- and intercluster communication cost. Proper organization of wireless sensor network into clusters enables efficient utilization of limited resources and enhances lifetime of deployed sensor nodes. This paper considers a novel network organization scheme, energy-efficient edge-based network partitioning scheme, to organize sensor nodes into clusters of equal size. Also, it proposes a cluster-based routing algorithm, called zone-based routing protocol (ZBRP), for elevating sensor network lifetime. Experimental results show that ZBRP out-performs interims of network lifetime and energy conservation with its uniform energy consumption among the cluster heads.
Behavioral Pattern during Dental Pain in Intellectually Disabled Children: A Comparative Study
Authors: Shanmugam Muthukali , Shivakumar Vetrivel , Anitha Vijayarangan , Meenapriya Bagavathi Perumal , Aishwarya Srinivasan , Anitha Ramakrishnan
Published: November 2014

Aim. Children with developmental disabilities generally experience more pain than the normal children. Description of pain is generally difficult in children and more so in children with intellectual disabilities. The study aimed at evaluating dental pain in children with intellectual disabilities. Methods. The survey was carried out in an institution caring for intellectually disabled children to determine the oral health status and the treatment needs of the special kids. 236 children were surveyed out of which the test group is comprised of 111 intellectually disabled children and the control group had 125 normal children with age ranging between five to eighteen years. A questionnaire was presented to the caregivers to elaborate about dental pain in their wards using the dental discomfort questionnaire (DDQ+). The children were examined for dental caries and periodontal status based on the WHO indices for oral hygiene status. Result. Results revealed a statistically significant difference between intellectual disability and brushing, chewing, and earache. The frequency of reporting dental pain was lesser in the intellectually disabled group. Conclusion. Children with intellectual disability tended to report dental pain of any nature with lesser frequency than typically developing peers. They also faced greater difficulty in brushing and chewing.
Effect of Blade Outlet Angle on Unsteady Hydrodynamic Force of Closed-Type Centrifugal Pump with Single Blade
Authors: Nishi Yasuyuki , Fukutomi Junichiro
Published: November 2014

Geometrically, the single-blade centrifugal impeller, commonly used today as a sewage pump, is not axially symmetric. For this reason, the static pressure around the impeller fluctuates greatly when the impeller is rotating, and not only the radial thrust but also the axial thrust shows large fluctuations. Therefore, it is extremely important for the improvement of pump reliability to quantitatively grasp these fluctuating hydrodynamic forces. In this study, we investigated the unsteady hydrodynamic forces in a closed-type centrifugal pump with a single blade for different blade outlet angles using a numerical analysis that takes into account both experiment and the leakage flow. The results clearly showed the effect of the blade outlet angle on that act on the impeller. The root-mean-square value of the fluctuating component of the total radial thrust was roughly the same for whichever impeller at low flow rate, but at high flow rates, the value increased for impellers with larger blade outlet angles. Moreover, when the leakage flow rate increased with increasing static pressure around the impeller, such that the rear and front shroud parts were subject to high pressure, the absolute value of the axial thrust on both these parts increased.
Walking Behavior Observed inPhoxichilidium femoratum(Rathke, 1799) andNymphon brevirostreHodge 1863 Collected from Kandalaksha Bay of the White Sea, Russia
Authors: Fornshell John A.
Published: November 2014

In this study, the walking behavior ofPhoxichilidium femoratumandNymphon brevirostrewas investigated using video recordings. The walking behavior ofP. femoratumwhile walking over the colonial hydroids that they normally feed on and on relatively smooth glass surfaces was observed. In the case ofN. brevirostre, only walking on smooth glass was observed. The movement of the legs while waking does not display a metachronal pattern like that observed in the true spiders. As the animals move, the walking legs on the leading side of the animal are used to pull the animal forward while those on the trailing side make little or no contribution to the motion of the animal. The promoter/remoter motions of the coxa 1-coxa 2 joint of the walking legs are involved in azimuthal changes in the body’s orientation, but not in paraxial locomotion. The extension of the tarsus and propodus segments appears to occur as a result of hydrodynamic drag when the legs are being flexed and/or pressed against a solid substrate.
Hormonal Treatment for Severe Hydronephrosis Caused by Bladder Endometriosis
Authors: Efe Erkan , Bakacak Murat , Serin Salih , Kolus Eyüp , Ercan Önder , Resim Sefa
Published: November 2014

The incidence of endometriosis cases involving the urinary system has recently increased, and the bladder is a specific zone where endometriosis is most commonly seen in the urinary system. In the case presented here, a patient presented to the emergency department with the complaint of side pain and was examined and diagnosed with severe hydronephrosis and bladder endometriosis was determined in the etiology. After the patient was pathologically diagnosed, Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine System (LNG-IUS) was administered to the uterine cavity. At the 12-month follow-up, endometriosis was not observed in the cystoscopy and symptoms had completely regressed. Hydronephrosis may be observed after exposure of the ureter, and silent renal function loss may develop in patients suffering from endometriosis with bladder involvement. For patients with moderate or severe hydronephrosis associated with bladder endometriosis, LNG-IUS application may be separately and successfully used after conservative surgery.
Pap Test Use and Cervical Cancer Incidence in First Nations Women Living in Manitoba
Authors: Decker Kathleen M. , Demers Alain A. , Kliewer Erich V. , Biswanger Natalie , Musto Grace , Elias Brenda , Griffith Jane , Turner Donna
Published: November 2014

This study examined Papanicolaou (Pap) test utilization, Pap test results, and cervical cancer incidence among First Nations (FN) women living in Manitoba, Canada taking into account age group, time period, and area of residence. Six population-based data sources were linked at an individual level. Negative binomial regression was used to compare Pap test utilization and results between FN and all other Manitoba (AOM) women. Poisson regression was used to compare cervical cancer incidence. Among women younger than 25 years, FN were more likely than AOM women to have had a Pap test [rate ratio (RR) = 1.37, 95% confidence intervals (CI), 1.22–1.53, 18–19 year olds; RR = 1.17, 95% CI, 1.05–1.31, 20–24 year olds]. There was no difference in Pap test use for women 25 to 29 or 30 to 39 years. FN 40 years and older were less likely to have a Pap test than AOM women (RR = 0.84, 95% CI, 0.75–0.93, 40–49 years old; RR = 0.71, 95% CI, 0.63–0.79, 50–59 years old; RR = 0.59, 95% CI, 0.52–0.66, 60–69 years old). FN were more likely than AOM women to have a high (RR = 1.88, 95% CI, 1.65–2.13) or low-grade Pap test result (RR = 1.60, 95% CI, 1.48–1.73). The invasive cervical cancer incidence rate was double for FN women 25 to 39 years of age (21.9 per 100,000, FN; 10.2 per 100,000, AOM, P = 0.006) and 40 to 69 years of age (24.3 per 100,000, FN; 12.3 per 100,000, AOM, P = 0.007). In conclusion, cervical cancer screening among FN women over 40 years of age must be increased to address the higher cervical cancer incidence. Cancer Prev Res; 8(1); 49–55. ©2014 AACR.
Group-Based Trajectory Modeling: An Overview
Authors: Nagin Daniel S.
Published: November 2014

This article provides an overview of a group-based statistical methodology for analyzing developmental trajectories - the evolution of an outcome over age or time. Across all application domains, this group-based statistical method lends itself to the presentation of findings in the form of easily understood graphical and tabular data summaries. In so doing, the method provides statistical researchers with a tool for figuratively painting a statistical portrait of the predictors and consequences of distinct trajectories of development. Data summaries of this form have the great advantage of being accessible to nontechnical audiences and quickly comprehensible to audiences that are technically sophisticated. Examples of the application of the method are provided. A detailed account of the statistical underpinnings of the method and a full range of applications are provided by the author in a previous study.
Assessment of Fetal Growth by Customized Growth Charts
Authors: Gaillard Romy , Jaddoe Vincent W.V.
Published: November 2014

Customized fetal growth charts take account of the individual variation in the fetal growth potential based on non-pathological maternal and fetal characteristics. Application of these customized weight charts might improve the distinction between pathological growth-restricted fetuses and fetuses that are small but have reached their growth potential. Current models for customized growth standards have been based on birth weight and fetal growth data. Variables used for customization are gestational age, maternal age, parity, ethnicity, height, weight and fetal sex. Thus far, it remains controversial whether these maternal and fetal characteristics used for customization are strong enough predictors for fetal growth on an individual level and are truly physiological characteristics. The currently available customized growth charts might be of benefit for use in epidemiological studies and clinical practice. Further studies are needed to validate these customized growth models and to examine whether and to what extend they improve identification of children that are at risk for morbidity in the perinatal period and later in life.
Postnatal Weight and Height Growth Modeling and Prediction of Body Mass Index as a Function of Time for the Study of Growth Determinants
Authors: Botton Jérémie , Scherdel Pauline , Regnault Nolwenn , Heude Barbara , Charles Marie-Aline ,   EDEN Mother-Child Cohort Study Group
Published: November 2014

Weight, height and body mass index (BMI) growth trajectories have been associated with several chronic diseases in later life. Our aim was to describe a method to model individual weight and height growth curves during infancy and to show how it can be used to study their determinants and relationships with later health outcomes as well as to predict BMI trajectories. In the EDEN mother-child cohort, we collected 17 measurements of weight and 16 of length/height per child between birth and 3 years of age in 1,900 infants from their health care booklet and during the study clinical examinations at 1 and 3 years; 1,436 (76%) had at least 1 measurement between 2 and 3 years. We fitted individual weight and height growth trajectories using the Jenss nonlinear model including random effects using the ‘SAEMIX' package (R software). We studied whether individual growth model parameters were associated with gender in one- and two-step approaches. We indirectly calculated BMI increase against time from both weight and height growth models combined and compared the fit with a direct multilevel spline model. By modeling observed growth data, we homogenized the data in terms of number and age of measurements and were able to calculate other specific parameters as growth velocities.
Modelling Childhood Growth Using Fractional Polynomials and Linear Splines
Authors: Tilling Kate , Macdonald-Wallis Corrie , Lawlor Debbie A. , Hughes Rachael A. , Howe Laura D.
Published: November 2014

Background: There is increasing emphasis in medical research on modelling growth across the life course and identifying factors associated with growth. Here, we demonstrate multilevel models for childhood growth either as a smooth function (using fractional polynomials) or a set of connected linear phases (using linear splines). Methods: We related parental social class to height from birth to 10 years of age in 5,588 girls from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). Multilevel fractional polynomial modelling identified the best-fitting model as being of degree 2 with powers of the square root of age, and the square root of age multiplied by the log of age. The multilevel linear spline model identified knot points at 3, 12 and 36 months of age. Results: Both the fractional polynomial and linear spline models show an initially fast rate of growth, which slowed over time. Both models also showed that there was a disparity in length between manual and non-manual social class infants at birth, which decreased in magnitude until approximately 1 year of age and then increased. Conclusions: Multilevel fractional polynomials give a more realistic smooth function, and linear spline models are easily interpretable. Each can be used to summarise individual growth trajectories and their relationships with individual-level exposures.
Historical Approaches to Human Growth Studies Limit the Present Understanding of Growth Biology
Authors: Lampl Michelle , Mummert Amanda
Published: November 2014

Background/Aims: Measurements of children's size have (1) provided a biosensor of health and well-being in their environment; (2) provided references for clinical assessment, and (3) informed public health efforts to ameliorate living conditions. Size-for-age measurements offer no information about the growth trajectories by which children achieve size, and growth trajectories offer no information on proximal mechanisms underlying growth biology. Increasing attention to the biological processes themselves, only estimated by anthropometric parameters and statistically based growth proxies, is needed. Methods: A literature overview of human growth measurement interpretations. Results: Aspects of study design, analysis and reliance on common conventions contribute to limitations in growth biology knowledge. Examples include conflating both the concepts of size and growth and incremental gains in either weight or length as manifestations of growth; nonuniformity in the use of growth trajectory-derived clinical categories, and conventional approaches to data collection and analysis. Conclusions: Intensive studies of individuals hold promise for expanding normal growth biology knowledge. Focusing on growth (not merely size), length (not weight alone) and individual growth patterns (not growth chart phenotypes) are important tactics. Benefits include clarification of mechanisms by which nutrition and metabolism influence growth, new solutions to abnormal growth states and improvements in long-term health consequences.
Neuroprotective Effect of Didymin on Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Injury in the Neuronal Membrane System
Authors: Morelli Sabrina , Piscioneri Antonella , Salerno Simona , Al-Fageeh Mohamed B. , Drioli Enrico , De Bartolo Loredana
Published: November 2014

In this study, the flavonoid didymin was administered in vitro in neuronal cells after hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced injury (neurorescue) in order to investigate the effects of this natural molecule on cell damage in a neuronal membrane system. The results showed the effects of didymin in neuronal cells by using a polycaprolactone biodegradable membrane system as an in vitro model. Two major findings are presented in this study: first is the antioxidant property of didymin and, second, for the first time we provide evidence concerning its ability to rescue neuronal cells from oxidative damage. Didymin showed radical scavenging activities and it protected the neuronal cells against H2O2-induced neurotoxicity. Didymin increased cell viability, decreased intracellular reactive oxygen species generation, stimulated superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity in neuronal cells which were previously insulted with H2O2. In addition, didymin strikingly inhibited H2O2-induced mitochondrial dysfunctions in terms of reduction of mitochondria membrane potential and the activation of cleaved caspase-3, and also decreased dramatically the H2O2-induced phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase. Therefore, this molecule is capable of inducing recovery from oxidative damage, and promoting and/or restoring normal cellular conditions. Moreover, the mechanism underlying the protective effects of didymin in H2O2-injured neuronal cells might be related to the activation of antioxidant defense enzymes as well as to the inhibition of apoptotic features, such as p-JNK and caspase-3 activation. These data suggest that didymin may be a potential therapeutic molecule for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders associated with oxidative stress.
Longitudinal Models for Studying Multivariate Changes and Dynamics
Authors: Ferrer Emilio , Gonzales Joseph E.
Published: November 2014

In this paper, we describe a longitudinal modeling approach for examining multivariate changes and dynamics. This technique is based on latent change scores and is executed using a structural equation modeling framework. We provide an overview of the model, describing desirable features for identifying dynamics among multiple processes. We then illustrate its application using empirical data consisting of longitudinal processes and conclude the paper with some potential steps for advancing the modeling possibilities.
Retarded Tempo of Physiological Development in Childhood Delays the Onset of the Metabolic Syndrome in Adulthood
Authors: Sun Shumei S. , Sima Adam P. , Himes John H.
Published: November 2014

Using serial data from the Fels Longitudinal Study, we investigated the effects of early and late attainment of the peak height velocity (PHV) in childhood on the timing of the appearance of the metabolic syndrome later in life. We aimed to show if early attainment of PHV engenders greater risks for chronic diseases in boys than in girls. Therefore, we defined those boys and girls in sex-specific quartiles of the study population that were slowest to attain PHV as having a slow tempo of development, and those in the growth that most rapidly attained PHV as having a rapid tempo of development. Boys who experienced an early onset of PHV tended to have a higher risk for the metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia and impaired fasting glucose than those who had late onset of PHV. Girls who had an early onset of PHV tended to develop more abdominal obesity than females who had a late onset of PHV.
Birch Pollen Immunotherapy in Mice: Inhibition of Th2 Inflammation Is Not Sufficient to Decrease Airway Hyper-Reactivity
Authors: van Rijt Leonie S. , Gouveia Lara , Logiantara Adrian , Canbaz Derya , Opstelten Dirk-Jan , van der Kleij Hanneke P.M. , van Ree Ronald
Published: November 2014

Background: Suppression of Th2 cytokine production by allergen-specific Th2 cells is considered to be critical for the suppression of allergic symptoms by subcutaneous immunotherapy. The aim of this study was to develop a mouse model for birch pollen (BP) immunotherapy to elucidate the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the improvement of clinical symptoms. Methods: Mice with BP-induced allergic airway inflammation received weekly subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) injections with BP extract (BPE) adsorbed to alum. The effect of an increasing dose of BPE adsorbed to a fixed concentration of alum on the suppression of airway inflammation and airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR) was determined. After 2, 4, 6 or 8 immunotherapy injections, the mice were rechallenged with the same allergen and all hallmarks of allergic asthma were evaluated. Results: Suppression of the immunological parameters by immunotherapy was dependent on the BPE dose. Two injections were sufficient to suppress IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-10 and IFN-G production, eosinophil recruitment and peribronchial inflammatory infiltrates. BP-specific immunoglobulins were upregulated, but this was not sufficient to reduce AHR. Eight injections were needed to suppress AHR. The gradual reduction in AHR was inversely associated with the increase of BP IgG2a. Conclusions: BP SCIT induces an early suppression of Th2-mediated eosinophilic airway inflammation, but AHR is only effectively reduced after continued SCIT conceivably by allowing IgG2a antibody titres to build up. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Magnitude of Blood Pressure Reduction in the Placebo Arms of Modern Hypertension Trials
Authors: Patel Hitesh C. , Hayward Carl , Ozdemir Baris Ata , Rosen Stuart D. , Krum Henry , Lyon Alexander R. , Francis Darrel P. , di Mario Carlo
Published: November 2014

Early phase studies of novel interventions for hypertension, such as renal sympathetic denervation, are sometimes single-armed (uncontrolled). We explored the wisdom of this by quantifying the blood pressure fall in the placebo arms of contemporary trials of hypertension. We searched Medline up to June 2014 and identified blinded, randomized trials of hypertension therapy in which the control arm received placebo medication or a sham (placebo) procedure. For nonresistant hypertension, we have identified all such trials of drugs licensed by the US Food and Drug Administration since 2000 (5 drugs). This US Food and Drug Administration–related restriction was not applied to resistant hypertension trials. This produced 7451 patients, who were allocated to a blinded control from 52 trials of nonresistant hypertension and 694 patients from 8 trials of resistant hypertension (3 drugs and 2 interventions). Systolic blood pressure fell by 5.92 mm Hg (95% confidence interval, 5.14–6.71;
P
<0.0001) in the nonresistant cohort and by 8.76 mm Hg (95% confidence interval, 4.83–12.70;
P
<0.0001) in the resistant cohort. Using metaregression, the falls were larger in trials that did not use ambulatory blood pressure monitoring as an inclusion criterion (
z
=2.84;
P
=0.0045), in those with higher baseline blood pressures (
z
=−0.3;
P
=0.0001), and in those where the patients were prescribed a continuous background of antihypertensives (
z
=−2.72;
P
=0.0065). The nontrivial magnitude of these apparent blood pressure reductions with perfectly ineffective intervention (placebo) illustrates that efficacy explorations of novel therapies for hypertension, once safety is established, should be performed with a randomized, appropriately controlled, and blinded design.
The eu Seasonal Workers Directive: When Immigration Controls Meet Labour Rights
Authors: Fudge Judy , Olsson Petra Herzfeld
Published: November 2014

The Seasonal Workers Directive combines immigration law, which regulates entry and stay in a territory, with labour law, which governs the rights of workers. The different interests and expertise of the various eu institutions involved in the Directive’s drafting and adoption exacerbated the tension between these two legal fields. In turn, this tension compromised the achievement of several of the eu’s explicit objectives, namely, creating a level playing field for the recruitment of seasonal migrant workers across the Member States, instituting a circular migration program, and protecting migrant workers from economic and social exploitation. This article focuses on the extent to which the Directive has the capacity to protect seasonal migrant workers. To do so, it sketches the history of the Directive and discusses some consequences of its treaty basis, which provides the context for our analysis and evaluation of the substantive provisions of the Directive.
The Qualification for Being a Refugee under eu Law: Religion as a Reason for Persecution
Authors: Araújo Alexandra Maria Rodrigues
Published: November 2014

The Court of Justice in Y and Z deals with persecution in the form of interference in the right to practise one’s religion. The main aspects of the judgment can be summarized in the following three statements: in order to be granted refugee status under eu law, only a severe violation of religious freedom can be regarded as an act of persecution; the severity of the acts of persecution must be identified on the basis of the nature of the repression inflicted on the individual and its consequences; the competent authorities cannot expect the applicant to abstain from religious practices upon the return to his country of origin. Y and Z is an undeniable reference towards the interpretation of religion-based persecution provisions of the Qualification Directive. From the perspective of religious freedom, the Court reinforces the commitment of the eu with the European and international human rights standards concerning this right.
Hanseatic and Russian Data
Authors: Lukin Pavel V.
Published: November 2014

The article is a study of the two collective political bodies of medieval Novgorod – the veche (popular assembly) and the so called “Council of Lords.” The basis of research is mostly the Hanseatic documents in Middle Low German and Latin which have been underestimated until now. However, they are often more trustworthy than narrative sources with their literary clichés and ideological biases.

Both Russian and Hanseatic sources indicate that the veche was a real political institution which was open to all townsmen enjoying full rights regardless of social status. On the other hand, the sources give no grounds to suggest the rural population’s involvement in the Novgorodian veche. The author also argues that a governmental council did really exist in medieval Novgorod. There is some evidence of it in Hanseatic sources of the 14–15th centuries. However, no traces of its existence before the 14th century can be discovered. The council included the highest magistrates of the Novgorodian republic and was referred to in Hanseatic documents as de heren (gospodá).

Finally the author comes to the conclusion that the Novgorodian medieval polity should be studied in the broader context of European medieval city republics.
Judicial Independence, Constitutionalism and Governance in Cameroon
Authors: Mbaku John Mukum
Published: November 2014

Countries incorporate the principle of the separation of powers, including judicial independence, into their constitutions in an effort to meet several goals, the most important of which is to minimise government-induced tyranny. Specifically, countries that make this principle part of their constitutional practice intend to limit public servants by national laws and institutions, enhance government accountability, minimise opportunistic behaviors by civil servants and politicians, provide for checks and balances, and generally improve government efficiency. Cameroon, part of which was colonised by France, has a constitution that is modeled closely on the French Constitution of 4 October 1958. As a consequence, the country has adopted France’s hybrid system of the separation of powers. Using French constitutional practice as a model, this paper examines constitutional developments in Cameroon to determine why the country’s governing process, which is based on the Constitution of the Fifth Republic, has failed to guarantee constitutional justice.
Taxonomic notes on Australian species of Sciacharis (Magellanoconnus) (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: November 2014

Two species of Australian Cyrtoscydmini were placed in the subgenus Magellanoconnus Franz of Sciacharis Broun: S. carinifrons (Franz) and S. kangarouana (Franz) (both originally described in Neuraphoconnus, a junior synonym of Magellanoconnus Franz). Examination of type specimens revealed that these species names, published in the same paper, are synonymous and S. carinifrons is here selected as a valid name. This species is redescribed and its morphological details are illustrated. Possible relationships of Australian Magellanoconnus with Sciacharis s. str. and Euconnus s. str. are discussed.
Clarias serniosus, a new walking catfish (Teleostei: Clariidae) from Laos
Authors: NG HEOK HEE , KOTTELAT MAURICE
Published: November 2014

Clarias serniosus, a new Southeast Asian walking-catfish species, is described from the Bolavens Plateau in southern Laos. The new species is a member of the C. batrachus species complex, and can be distinguished from congeners in the complex in having a combination of: occipital process length 15–17 % HL, head length 28.2–28.6% SL, head width 18.5–19.2% SL, head depth 13.0–13.7% SL, distance between the occipital process and the base of the first dorsal-fin ray 8.5% SL, smooth anterior edge of pectoral spine, 67 dorsal-fin rays, body depth at anus 16.2–16.5% SL, and 57 total vertebrae.
A review of the Polystira clade—the Neotropic’s largest marine gastropod radiation (Neogastropoda: Conoidea: Turridae sensu stricto)
Authors: TODD JONATHAN A. , RAWLINGS TIMOTHY A.
Published: November 2014

The Polystira clade (here comprising Polystira and Pleuroliria) is a poorly known but hyper-diverse clade within the neogastropod family Turridae (sensu stricto). It has extensively radiated within the tropics and subtropics of the Americas, to which it is endemic. In this paper we present a synthetic overview of existing information on this radiation together with new information on estimated species diversity, systematic relationships, a species-level molecular phylogenetic analysis and preliminary macroecological and diversification analyses, to serve as a platform for further study. We currently estimate that about 300 species (122 extant) are known from its 36 million year history but this number will undoubtedly increase as we extend our studies. We discuss the relationships of Polystira to other Neotropical Turridae (s.s.) and examine the taxonomy and systematics of the geologically oldest described members of the clade. To aid taxonomic description of shells we introduce a new notation for homologous major spiral cords. Focusing on key publications, we discuss in detail the changing historical understanding of the taxonomy of the clade and the relationships of its component genus-level taxa: Polystira Woodring, 1928, Pleuroliria de Gregorio, 1890, Josephina Gardner, 1945 and Oxytropa Glibert, 1955. We designate a neotype for Pleurotoma (Pleuroliria) supramirifica de Gregorio, 1890, to stabilize our understanding of this, the type species of Pleuroliria. Application of the name Oxytropa is restricted to the type species. The genus Polystira is conchologically re-described and for the first time we synthesize available information on the anatomy, feeding and toxinology, reproduction and life history, larval modes and life habits, and geographic and bathymetric ranges of its species. We give an updated list of the 19 formally described living species and present the pitfalls of the currently poor species-level taxonomy of Polystira using case examples. We present a molecular phylogenetic analysis of 22 extant species using three mitochondrial gene fragments (COI, 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA). This reveals undescribed species and indicates that Recent genetic clades (‘biospecies’) are consistent with finely divided conchological ‘morphospecies’. Historically, there has been a slow realisation of the high species diversity of the Polystira clade and we consider that this may be due to inadequate precision of morphological description of shells and a lack of clear homology statements. We suggest how these both might be improved. Finally, using a data compilation based on museum specimens  we examine species range-size distributions and species abundance distributions for 85 of the 112 extant western Atlantic species that we have delimited to date. Our results indicate that the majority of species are rare and have short geographic ranges; only a few are wide-ranging and abundant. This has important implications for surveys of biodiversity.
New species of Potamocoris Hungerford (Heteroptera, Potamocoridae) from Costa Rica and a key to the species
Authors: HERRERA FEDERICO , SPRINGER MONIKA
Published: November 2014

A new potamocorid species, Potamocoris sitesi NEW SPECIES, with its two wing morphs (coleopteroid and macropterous) are described from Costa Rica.  Descriptions are supported with photographs and illustrations. Parameres become progressively narrower, ending in a sharp needle-like point. This is the third species of Potamocoris known from Central America. A key to the species of the genus is provided.
Revisiting the Energetics of the Ocean in Boussinesq Approximation
Authors: Eden Carsten
Published: November 2014

Following a suggestion by Tailleux, a consistent formulation of internal energy, the first law of thermodynamics, and the thermodynamic potentials for an ocean in Boussinesq approximation with a nonlinear equation of state is given. A modification of the pressure work in the first law is the only necessary modification from which all thermodynamic potentials and thermodynamic relations follow in a consistent way. This treatment of thermodynamics allows for a closed and explicit formulation of conservation equations for dynamic and potential reservoirs of both enthalpy and internal energy, which differentiate approximately reversible from irreversible effects on internal energy, and allows for a formulation of a closed energy cycle on which energetically consistent ocean models can be based on.
Taking the problem seriously? Sentencing Indigenous and non-Indigenous domestic violence offenders
Authors: Jeffries Samantha , Bond Christine EW
Published: November 2014

The ‘problem’ of Indigenous domestic violence has become increasingly dominant in populist and government discourse, with the criminal justice system (including the courts) being criticised for the possible lenient treatment of offenders. Using a population of cases sentenced in New South Wales from January 2009 to June 2012, this paper uses multivariate analyses to explore the intersection between Indigenous status, context of violence (domestic vs. nondomestic) and the imprisonment sentencing decision. Results suggest that when sentenced under comparable statistical circumstances, Indigenous domestic violence offenders are equally likely as those convicted of violent crimes outside of intimate/familial contexts to be sentenced to prison. In contrast, non-Indigenous domestic violence offenders are significantly less likely than those convicted of violent offences outside of intimate/familial relationships contexts to be sentenced to prison. Drawing on the focal concerns sentencing perspective, possible explanations for this finding are explored. The tension faced by the courts between the impact of colonialism on Indigenous offenders and their communities, the need to protect Indigenous victims of domestic violence and their communities, as well as overarching expectations around the punitive treatment of crimes of domestic violence are discussed.
Security, Clarity of Responsibility, and Presidential Approval
Authors: Carlin Ryan E. , Love Gregory J. , Martínez-Gallardo Cecilia
Published: November 2014

The importance of institutions in shaping citizens’ ability to punish or reward politicians for economic outcomes is well established. Where institutions divide authority, politicians can blame each other and citizens find it harder to assign responsibility for policy failures; where institutions clarify lines of authority, citizens can better hold politicians accountable. However, this argument assumes that citizens perceive policy responsibility as shared among political actors and this is not always the case. Looking at security policy, we argue that when policy responsibility is concentrated in a single actor the effect of institutions on blame attribution is different from what the economic voting literature predicts. Divided government in this context makes blame-shifting less effective and makes it more likely that citizens will punish incumbents. By contrast, the ability of executives to control the narrative around security failures by blaming the perpetrators, especially during unified government, can help them avoid blame.
Assessing the Relationship Between Police Use of Force and Inmate Offending (Rule Violations)
Authors: Klahm Charles F. , Steiner Benjamin , Meade Benjamin
Published: November 2014

We assess the effects of exposure to police use of force on inmates’ odds of offending in prison using survey data collected from a national sample of inmates. We found, net of relevant controls, prisoners subjected to police violence were more likely to engage in assaultive and other rule violating behavior, especially those who did not resist police authority. Consistent with the cycle of violence hypothesis, our findings suggest violence perpetrated by legal authorities produces similar effects to exposure to violence in general. Moreover, the consequences of police use of force are especially problematic when the recipient fails to perceive his or her treatment was fair, which supports the theoretical perspective on procedural fairness and legitimacy. Policy implications are discussed.
Founder Versus Family Owners’ Impact on Pay Dispersion Among Non-CEO Top Managers: Implications for Firm Performance
Authors: Jaskiewicz Peter , Block Joern H. , Miller Danny , Combs James G.
Published: November 2014

Emerging evidence suggests that pay dispersion among non-CEO top management team (TMT) members harms firm performance, which raises questions about why firms’ owners tolerate or even support it. Prior research shows that the key distinction between founder and family owners is that in addition to firm performance and growth goals, family owners pursue socioemotional goals. On the basis of this distinction, we develop and test theory linking founders’ and families’ ownership to TMT pay dispersion. Consistent with our theory, a Bayesian panel analysis of Standard & Poor’s 500 firms shows that founder owners use less TMT pay dispersion and that family owners, relative to founder owners, use more, although that declines across generations. We also provide evidence that TMT pay dispersion harms firm performance. Our theory and results are significant because they help to explain why some owners favor compensation practices that cause TMT pay dispersion, despite evidence that this harms firm performance.
The Media and Behavioral Genetics
Authors: Dingel Molly J. , Ostergren Jenny , McCormick Jennifer B. , Hammer Rachel , Koenig Barbara A.
Published: November 2014

To understand public discourse in the United States on genetic causation of behavioral disorders, we analyzed media representations of genetic research on addiction published between 1990 and 2010. We conclude first that the media simplistically represent biological bases of addiction and willpower as being mutually exclusive: behaviors are either genetically determined, or they are a choice. Second, most articles provide only cursory or no treatment of the environmental contribution. A media focus on genetics directs attention away from environmental factors. Rhetorically, media neglect the complexity underlying the etiology the addiction and direct focus back toward individual causation and responsibility.
Does Critical Theory need strong foundations?
Authors: White Stephen K.
Published: November 2014

In this paper I take issue with Rainer Forst's claim that his account of the demand for justification that is at the core of the idea of justice provides our political thinking with a final “fundamentum inconcussum”.
Entrepreneurship and crisis management: The experiences of small businesses during the London 2011 riots
Authors: Doern Rachel
Published: November 2014

This article examines the impact of a crisis on small firms. Taking a phenomenological research approach, qualitative interviews were conducted to capture the experiences of small businesses directly affected by looting, vandalism and/or arson in the London 2011 riots. This study adds to the literature on crisis management by highlighting the different types of losses encountered by small businesses following a crisis and the role individual owner–managers, businesses and the wider community play in enhancing or minimizing losses. A model is developed to capture those factors that influence which small businesses were vulnerable or resilient to the riots.
Questions considering the ‘normative skepticism’ of Ágnes Heller
Authors: Pickle Jonathan
Published: November 2014

This paper situates the critical attitude undergirding Ágnes Heller’s theory of modernity by elucidating her conceptualization of its ‘undialectical dialectics’ relative to the dialectical philosophies of Kant and Hegel. For Heller, the methodological commitments orienting a philosopher’s decision on how to conceptualize the dynamics of modernity are not merely theoretical but also ethico-practical, for they attempt to overcome the duality of life and spirit in the singular personality. For the denizens of contemporary modernity – who recognize contingency inhering in their institutions – and for philosophers – who recognize the fallibility of their theoretical claims – a form of skepticism is warranted. By engaging with the work of György Márkus, Heller attempts to evince a notion of ‘normative skepticism’ that may exhibit both a critical attitude appropriate to conceiving modernity as ‘undialectical dialectics’ and to attenuate for the threat of ‘existential failure’ in the choice of oneself as a philosopher.
Reduced Penetrance of PRRT2 Mutation in a Chinese Family With Infantile Convulsion and Choreoathetosis Syndrome
Authors: Zhang L. M. , An Y. , Pan G. , Ding Y. F. , Zhou Y. F. , Yao Y. H. , Wu B. L. , Zhou S. Z.
Published: November 2014

Paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia is a rare episodic movement disorder that can be isolated or associated with benign infantile seizures as part of choreoathetosis syndrome. Mutations in the PRRT2 gene have been recently identified as a cause of paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia and infantile convulsion and choreoathetosis (ICCA). We reported a PRRT2 heterozygous mutation (c.604-607delTCAC, p.S202Hfs*25) in a 3-generation Chinese family with infantile convulsion and choreoathetosis and paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia. The mutation was present in 5 family members, of which 4 were clinically affected and 1 was an obligate carrier with reduced penetrance of PRRT2. The affected carriers of this mutation presented with a similar type of infantile convulsion during early childhood and developed additional paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia symptoms later in life. In addition, they all had a dramatic clinical response to oxcarbazepine/phenytoin therapy. Reduced penetrance of the PRRT2 mutation in this family could warrant genetic counseling.
Bacterial adherence and biofilm formation on medical implants: A review
Authors: Veerachamy Suganthan , Yarlagadda Tejasri , Manivasagam Geetha , Yarlagadda Prasad KDV
Published: November 2014

Biofilms are a complex group of microbial cells that adhere to the exopolysaccharide matrix present on the surface of medical devices. Biofilm-associated infections in the medical devices pose a serious problem to the public health and adversely affect the function of the device. Medical implants used in oral and orthopedic surgery are fabricated using alloys such as stainless steel and titanium. The biological behavior, such as osseointegration and its antibacterial activity, essentially depends on both the chemical composition and the morphology of the surface of the device. Surface treatment of medical implants by various physical and chemical techniques are attempted in order to improve their surface properties so as to facilitate bio-integration and prevent bacterial adhesion. The potential source of infection of the surrounding tissue and antimicrobial strategies are from bacteria adherent to or in a biofilm on the implant which should prevent both biofilm formation and tissue colonization. This article provides an overview of bacterial biofilm formation and methods adopted for the inhibition of bacterial adhesion on medical implants
Oxidative stress and air pollution exposure during pregnancy
Authors: Nagiah S , Phulukdaree A , Naidoo D , Ramcharan K , Naidoo RN , Moodley D , Chuturgoon A
Published: November 2014

Chronic air pollution exposure during pregnancy can cause oxidative stress leading to adverse birth outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess and compare oxidative stress response in peripheral lymphocytes isolated from pregnant women from a highly industrialized locale (south Durban (SD); n = 50) and a control with lower air pollutant levels (north Durban (ND); n = 50). Oxidative stress response was measured by quantifying malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and a SuperArray gene panel. Mitochondrial function (adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels and mitochondrial depolarization), DNA integrity (comet assay and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) viability) and DNA repair (OGG1) were assessed. Antioxidant response was assessed by quantification of glutathione (GSH) and SOD2, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) protein and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression. Levels of MDA ( p = 0.9), mitochondrial depolarization ( p = 0.88), ATP (1.89-fold), SOD2 (1.23-fold) and UCP2 (1.58-fold) gene expression were elevated in the SD group with significantly higher UCP2 protein levels ( p = 0.05) and longer comet tail length ( p = 0.0004). The expression of Nrf2 protein ( p = 0.03) and mRNA levels (−1.37-fold), GSH concentration ( p < 0.0001), mtDNA amplification (−2.04-fold) and OGG1 mRNA (−2.78-fold) activity were decreased in the SD group. Of the 84 oxidative stress-related genes evaluated, 26 were differentially regulated. Pregnant women exposed to higher air pollutant levels showed increased markers for oxidative stress and compromised DNA integrity and repair.
A parametric study on flexible electro-active composites: Importance of geometry and matrix properties
Authors: Atitallah Hassene Ben , Ounaies Zoubeida , Muliana Anastasia
Published: November 2014

Active fiber composites comprised of long circular fibers embedded in an epoxy polymer, where the fibers are made of the piezoelectric ceramic lead zirconate titanate. The active fiber composites use interdigitated electrodes, which produce electric field lines parallel to the fiber direction instead of through-the-thickness. It is noted, however, that the d33 of the active fiber composite is almost a third that of the lead zirconate titanate, mainly because of the significant mismatch in dielectric properties between the epoxy matrix and the ceramic fibers. The objective of the current work is to investigate the effects of active fiber composite geometry and polymer properties on the overall performance of active fiber composite in terms of mechanical displacement and electric potential. An active fiber composite model that considers several fibers, epoxy matrix, and electrode fingers (interdigitated electrodes) as part of the representative volume element is developed and implemented using finite element method. The model examines the effect of the interdigitated electrode parameters such as the spacing between the electrode’s fingers and their width. The other parameters examined are the fiber diameter and matrix properties. This parametric study will lead to an optimized geometry and matrix that can be used for the manufacturing of next-generation active fiber composites with higher performance than what is currently available.