bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global synchronization of discrete-time coupled neural networks with Markovian switching and impulses
Authors: Tan Jie , Li Chuandong
Published: October 2015

This paper is concerned with the problem of synchronization analysis for discrete-time coupled neural networks. The networks under consideration are subject to: (1) the jumping parameters that are modeled as a continuous-time, discrete-state Markov process; (2) impulsive disturbances; and (3) time delays that include both the mode-dependent discrete and distributed delay. By constructing suitable Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional and combining with linear matrix inequality approach, several novel criteria are derived for verifying the global exponential synchronization in the mean square of such stochastic dynamical networks. The derived conditions are established in terms of linear matrix inequalities, which can be easily solved by some available software packages. A simulation example is presented to show the effectiveness and applicability of the obtained results.
Shaping the Future of the IMS: Regionalization of Selected Asian Currencies
Authors: Lee Il Houng
Published: October 2015

The dominance of the US Dollar (USD) as the main global reserve currency will continue for the foreseeable future. Yet various events, including the most recent financial crisis, have pointed to the need for an alternative system that will strengthen market discipline rather than a system relying excessively on policy coordination. The rise of Asian economies led by China provides a unique opportunity for a regionalization of selected Asian currencies, namely, the settling of current account transactions among Asian economies using selected local currencies. To do so, relevant governments should be more proactive in setting up a market framework by following similar steps taken by China for RMB internationalization. This will provide an opportunity for the market to determine how fast it wants to shape an alternative international monetary system. Most likely, a tri-polar and two-tier system will emerge. As the medium of exchange and unit of account, the first tier, the USD, the Euro, and the RMB will dominate, forming a tri-polar system along each of which various local currencies will be used specific to the locality. As the store of value, the second tier, the USD will retain its hegemony for a few more decades. Gradually, these two tiers will merge.
A Hybrid Background Subtraction Method with Background and Foreground Candidates Detection
Authors: Cheng Fan-Chieh , Chen Bo-Hao , Huang Shih-Chia
Published: October 2015

Background subtraction for motion detection is often used in video surveillance systems. However, difficulties in bootstrapping restrict its development. This article proposes a novel hybrid background subtraction technique to solve this problem. For performance improvement of background subtraction, the proposed technique not only quickly initializes the background model but also eliminates unnecessary regions containing only background pixels in the object detection process. Furthermore, an embodiment based on the proposed technique is also presented. Experimental results verify that the proposed technique allows for reduced execution time as well as improvement of performance as evaluated by Recall, Precision, F1, and Similarity metrics when used with state-of-the-art background subtraction methods.
A Conversation with Douglass North
Authors: North Douglass C. , Brown Gardner , Lueck Dean
Published: October 2015

A transcript of an interview of Douglass C. North by Gardner Brown, with an introduction by Dean Lueck.
Crizotinib Synergizes with Chemotherapy in Preclinical Models of Neuroblastoma
Authors: Krytska Kateryna , Ryles Hannah T. , Sano Renata , Raman Pichai , Infarinato Nicole R. , Hansel Theodore D. , Makena Monish R. , Song Michael M. , Reynolds C. Patrick , Mossé Yael P.
Published: October 2015

Purpose: The presence of an ALK aberration correlates with inferior survival for patients with high-risk neuroblastoma. The emergence of ALK inhibitors such as crizotinib has provided novel treatment opportunities. However, certain ALK mutations result in de novo crizotinib resistance, and a phase I trial of crizotinib showed a lack of response in patients harboring those ALK mutations. Thus, understanding mechanisms of resistance and defining circumvention strategies for the clinic is critical.

Experimental Design: The sensitivity of human neuroblastoma–derived cell lines, cell line–derived, and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models with varying ALK statuses to crizotinib combined with topotecan and cyclophosphamide (topo/cyclo) was examined. Cultured cells and xenografts were evaluated for effects of these drugs on proliferation, signaling, and cell death, and assessment of synergy.

Results: In neuroblastoma murine xenografts harboring the most common ALK mutations, including those mutations associated with resistance to crizotinib (but not in those with wild-type ALK), crizotinib combined with topo/cyclo enhanced tumor responses and mouse event-free survival. Crizotinib + topo/cyclo showed synergistic cytotoxicity and higher caspase-dependent apoptosis than crizotinib or topo/cyclo alone in neuroblastoma cell lines with ALK aberrations (mutation or amplification).

Conclusions: Combining crizotinib with chemotherapeutic agents commonly used in treating newly diagnosed patients with high-risk neuroblastoma restores sensitivity in preclinical models harboring both sensitive ALK aberrations and de novo–resistant ALK mutations. These data support clinical testing of crizotinib and conventional chemotherapy with the goal of integrating ALK inhibition into multiagent therapy for ALK-aberrant neuroblastoma patients. Clin Cancer Res; 22(4); 948–60. ©2015 AACR.
Efficacy of PARP Inhibitor Rucaparib in Orthotopic Glioblastoma Xenografts Is Limited by Ineffective Drug Penetration into the Central Nervous System
Authors: Parrish Karen E. , Cen Ling , Murray James , Calligaris David , Kizilbash Sani , Mittapalli Rajendar K. , Carlson Brett L. , Schroeder Mark A. , Sludden Julieann , Boddy Alan V. , Agar Nathalie Y.R. , Curtin Nicola J. , Elmquist William F. , Sarkaria Jann N.
Published: October 2015

PARP inhibition can enhance the efficacy of temozolomide and prolong survival in orthotopic glioblastoma (GBM) xenografts. The aim of this study was to evaluate the combination of the PARP inhibitor rucaparib with temozolomide and to correlate pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies with efficacy in patient-derived GBM xenograft models. The combination of rucaparib with temozolomide was highly effective in vitro in short-term explant cultures derived from GBM12, and, similarly, the combination of rucaparib and temozolomide (dosed for 5 days every 28 days for 3 cycles) significantly prolonged the time to tumor regrowth by 40% in heterotopic xenografts. In contrast, the addition of rucaparib had no impact on the efficacy of temozolomide in GBM12 or GBM39 orthotopic models. Using Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) II cells stably expressing murine BCRP1 or human MDR1, cell accumulation studies demonstrated that rucaparib is transported by both transporters. Consistent with the influence of these efflux pumps on central nervous system drug distribution, Mdr1a/b−/−Bcrp1−/− knockout mice had a significantly higher brain to plasma ratio for rucaparib (1.61 ± 0.25) than wild-type mice (0.11 ± 0.08). A pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic evaluation after a single dose confirmed limited accumulation of rucaparib in the brain is associated with substantial residual PARP enzymatic activity. Similarly, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometric imaging demonstrated significantly enhanced accumulation of drug in flank tumor compared with normal brain or orthotopic tumors. Collectively, these results suggest that limited drug delivery into brain tumors may significantly limit the efficacy of rucaparib combined with temozolomide in GBM. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(12); 2735–43. ©2015 AACR.
PARP Inhibitors Sensitize Ewing Sarcoma Cells to Temozolomide-Induced Apoptosis via the Mitochondrial Pathway
Authors: Engert Florian , Schneider Cornelius , Weiβ Lilly Magdalena , Probst Marie , Fulda Simone
Published: October 2015

Ewing sarcoma has recently been reported to be sensitive to poly(ADP)-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. Searching for synergistic drug combinations, we tested several PARP inhibitors (talazoparib, niraparib, olaparib, veliparib) together with chemotherapeutics. Here, we report that PARP inhibitors synergize with temozolomide (TMZ) or SN-38 to induce apoptosis and also somewhat enhance the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin, etoposide, or ifosfamide, whereas actinomycin D and vincristine show little synergism. Furthermore, triple therapy of olaparib, TMZ, and SN-38 is significantly more effective compared with double or monotherapy. Mechanistic studies revealed that the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis plays a critical role in mediating the synergy of PARP inhibition and TMZ. We show that subsequent to DNA damage-imposed checkpoint activation and G2 cell-cycle arrest, olaparib/TMZ cotreatment causes downregulation of the antiapoptotic protein MCL-1, followed by activation of the proapoptotic proteins BAX and BAK, mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP), activation of caspases, and caspase-dependent cell death. Overexpression of a nondegradable MCL-1 mutant or BCL-2, knockdown of NOXA or BAX and BAK, or the caspase inhibitor N-benzyloxycarbonyl-Val-Ala-Asp-fluoromethylketone (zVAD.fmk) all significantly reduce olaparib/TMZ-mediated apoptosis. These findings emphasize the role of PARP inhibitors for chemosensitization of Ewing sarcoma with important implications for further (pre)clinical studies. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(12); 2818–30. ©2015 AACR.
Phytochemical Indicaxanthin Inhibits Colon Cancer Cell Growth and Affects the DNA Methylation Status by Influencing Epigenetically Modifying Enzyme Expression and Activity
Authors: Naselli Flores , Belshaw Nigel Junior , Gentile Carla , Tutone Marco , Tesoriere Luisa , Livrea Maria Antonietta , Caradonna Fabio
Published: October 2015

Background: Recently, we have shown anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of indicaxanthin associated with epigenetic modulation of the onco-suppressor p16INK4a in the human colon cancer cell line CACO2. In the present study, the epigenetic activity of indicaxanthin and the mechanisms involved were further investigated in other colorectal cancer cell lines. Methods: LOVO1, CACO2, HT29, HCT116, and DLD1 cells were used to evaluate the potential influence of consistent dietary concentrations of indicaxanthin on DNA methylation, and the epigenetic mechanisms involved were researched. Results: Indicaxanthin exhibited anti-proliferative activity in all cell lines but HT29, induced demethylation in the promoters of some methylation-silenced onco-suppressor genes involved in colorectal carcinogenesis (p16INK4a, GATA4, and ESR1), and left unchanged others which were basally hypermethylated (SFRP1 and HPP1). In apparent contrast, cell exposure to indicaxanthin increased DNMT gene expression, although indicaxanthin appeared to be an inhibitor of DNMT activity. Indicaxanthin also increased the expression of genes involved in DNA demethylation. Finally, an in silico molecular modelling approach suggested stable binding of indicaxanthin at the DNMT1 catalytic site. Conclusions: Our findings contribute to new knowledge in the field of phytochemicals and specifically suggest dietary indicaxanthin as a potential epigenetic agent to protect colon cells against tumoral alterations.
Cefcapene Pivoxil Hydrochloride Is a Potentially New Treatment for Palmoplantar Pustulosis with Pustulotic Arthro-Osteitis
Authors: Murakami Masamoto , Masuda Kana , Utsunomiya Ryo , Oda Fumiko , Namba Chika , Sayama Koji
Published: October 2015

Pustulosis palmaris et plantaris or palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) is a refractory pustular eruption of the palms and soles with unknown etiology. In addition to skin lesions, PPP patients may present with severe joint pain and pustulotic arthro-osteitis (PAO), especially of the sternoclavicular joint. PAO is sometimes regarded as a variant of synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome. Hence, macrolide and tetracycline antibiotics are used for the treatment of PPP with PAO. We report 3 cases of PPP with PAO that did not improve upon administration of macrolide antibiotics with NSAIDs. After administration of cefcapene pivoxil hydrochloride (CFPN-PI), a third-generation cephalosporin, the swelling and sternoclavicular joint pain were promptly reduced and dramatically improved in all 3 cases. We review the conventional antibiotic treatments used currently and propose CFPN-PI as a potentially new therapy for PPP or PPP + PAO.
Protective Effect of Salvia Przewalskii Extract on Puromycin-Induced Podocyte Injury
Authors: Dai De-shu , Liu Xiang , Yang Yang , Luo Xiao-mei , Tang Ren-xian , Yin Zhong-cheng , Ren Hong-qi
Published: October 2015

Background: To determine the effect of Salvia przewalskii extract (SPE) from total phenolic acids on puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN)-induced rat podocyte injury. Methods: The rats were divided into groups that were treated with either PAN only or PAN followed by tacrolimus or SPE. We evaluated the effects of SPE on podocyte injury 5, 10, 15 and 21 days following treatment. Results: (1) Proteinuria was observed starting on day 5 in all groups. The peak levels of proteinuria differed among the groups with tacrolimus and high-dose SPE, which significantly decreased proteinuria relative to the PAN and low- and medium-dose SPE groups. The proteinuria in each group decreased by day 15 and returned to a normal level by day 21. (2) H&E and PAS staining revealed no abnormality in glomerular morphology. With electron microscopy, we observed foot process effacement in the rats of all groups starting on day 5, but rats in the tacrolimus and high-dose SPE groups exhibited a lower degree. (3) IHC staining of nephrin and podocin revealed unaffected expression and better linear distributions in the high-dose SPE and tacrolimus groups. Western blot analysis confirmed that SPE could improve the expression of proteins. (4) The mRNA levels of nephrin and podocin in the tacrolimus and high-dose SPE groups were significantly higher than that in the others. Conclusion: In our study, we first demonstrated the ability of SPE to reduce proteinuria, preserve the morphology and structure of podocytes and retain the levels of slit diaphragm proteins on PAN-induced rat podocytes injury.
FoxO4 Promotes Early Inflammatory Response Upon Myocardial Infarction via Endothelial Arg1
Authors: Zhu Min , Goetsch Sean C. , Wang Zhaoning , Luo Robert , Hill Joseph A. , Schneider Jay , Morris Sidney M. , Liu Zhi-Ping
Published: October 2015

Rationale:

Inflammation in post–myocardial infarction (MI) is necessary for myocyte repair and wound healing. Unfortunately, it is also a key component of subsequent heart failure pathology. Transcription factor forkhead box O4 (FoxO4) regulates a variety of biological processes, including inflammation. However, its role in MI remains unknown.

Objective:

To test the hypothesis that FoxO4 promotes early post-MI inflammation via endothelial arginase 1 (Arg1).

Methods and Results:

We induced MI in wild-type and
FoxO4
−/−
mice.
FoxO4
−/−
mice had a significantly higher post-MI survival, better cardiac function, and reduced infarct size.
FoxO4
−/−
hearts had significantly fewer neutrophils, reduced expression of cytokines, and competitive nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Arg1. We generated conditional
FoxO4
knockout mice with
FoxO4
deleted in cardiac mycoytes or endothelial cells.
FoxO4
endothelial cell–specific knockout mice showed significant post-MI improvement of cardiac function and reduction of neutrophil accumulation and cytokine expression, whereas
FoxO4
cardiac mycoyte–specific knockout mice had no significant difference in cardiac function and post-MI inflammation from those of control littermates. FoxO4 binds the Foxo-binding site in the Arg1 promoter and activates Arg1 transcription. FoxO4 knockdown in human aortic endothelial cells upregulated nitric oxide on ischemia and suppressed monocyte adhesion that can be reversed by ectopic-expression of Arg1. Furthermore, chemical inhibition of Arg1 in wild-type mice had similar cardioprotection and reduced inflammation after MI as
FoxO4
inactivation and administration of nitric oxide synthase inhibitor to
FoxO4
KO mice reversed the beneficial effects of
FoxO4
deletion on post-MI cardiac function.

Conclusions:

FoxO4 activates Arg1 transcription in endothelial cells in response to MI, leading to downregulation of nitric oxide and upregulation of neutrophil infiltration to the infarct area.
Endothelial Mineralocorticoid Receptor Deletion Prevents Diet-Induced Cardiac Diastolic Dysfunction in Females
Authors: Jia Guanghong , Habibi Javad , DeMarco Vincent G. , Martinez-Lemus Luis A. , Ma Lixin , Whaley-Connell Adam T. , Aroor Annayya R. , Domeier Timothy L. , Zhu Yi , Meininger Gerald A. , Barrett Mueller Katelee , Jaffe Iris Z. , Sowers James R.
Published: October 2015

Overnutrition and insulin resistance are especially prominent risk factors for the development of cardiac diastolic dysfunction in females. We recently reported that consumption of a Western diet (WD) containing excess fat (46%), sucrose (17.5%), and high fructose corn syrup (17.5%) for 16 weeks resulted in cardiac diastolic dysfunction and aortic stiffening in young female mice and that these abnormalities were prevented by mineralocorticoid receptor blockade. Herein, we extend those studies by testing whether WD-induced diastolic dysfunction and factors contributing to diastolic impairment, such as cardiac fibrosis, hypertrophy, inflammation, and impaired insulin signaling, are modulated by excess endothelial cell mineralocorticoid receptor signaling. Four-week-old female endothelial cell mineralocorticoid receptor knockout and wild-type mice were fed mouse chow or WD for 4 months. WD feeding resulted in prolonged relaxation time, impaired diastolic septal wall motion, and increased left ventricular filling pressure indicative of diastolic dysfunction. This occurred in concert with myocardial interstitial fibrosis and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy that were associated with enhanced profibrotic (transforming growth factor β1/Smad) and progrowth (S6 kinase-1) signaling, as well as myocardial oxidative stress and a proinflammatory immune response. WD also induced cardiomyocyte stiffening, assessed ex vivo using atomic force microscopy. Conversely, endothelial cell mineralocorticoid receptor deficiency prevented WD-induced diastolic dysfunction, profibrotic, and progrowth signaling, in conjunction with reductions in macrophage proinflammatory polarization and improvements in insulin metabolic signaling. Therefore, our findings indicate that increased endothelial cell mineralocorticoid receptor signaling associated with consumption of a WD plays a key role in the activation of cardiac profibrotic, inflammatory, and growth pathways that lead to diastolic dysfunction in female mice.
Frequent Dilatation of the Descending Aorta in Children With Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome Relates to Decreased Aortic Arch Elasticity
Authors: Voges Inga , Jerosch‐Herold Michael , Wegner Philip , Hart Christopher , Gabbert Dominik , Al Bulushi Abdullah , Fischer Gunther , Andrade Ana Cristina , Pham Hoang Minh , Kristo Ines , Kramer Hans‐Heiner , Rickers Carsten
Published: October 2015

Background

Patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome after a Norwood operation show dilatation and reduced distensibility of the reconstructed proximal aorta. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (
CMR
) and angiographic examinations indicate that the native descending aorta (
DA
o) is also dilated, but this has not been studied in detail.

Methods and Results

Seventy‐nine children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome in Fontan circulation (aged 6.3±3.2 years) and 18 control participants (aged 6.8±2.4 years) underwent 3.0‐tesla
CMR
. Gradient‐echo cine and phase‐contrast imaging was applied to measure cross‐sectional areas (
CSA
s), distensibility, pulse wave velocity, and the incremental elastic modulus of the thoracic aorta.
CSA
of the
DA
o in patients was also compared with published percentiles for aortic
CSA
. Patients had significantly larger
CSA
of the
DA
o at the level of pulmonary artery bifurcation (229.1±97.2 versus 175.7±24.3 mm/m
2
,
P
=0.04) and the diaphragm (196.2±66.0 versus 142.6±16.7 mm/m
2
,
P
<0.01). In 41 patients (52%),
CSA
of the
DA
o was >95th percentile level for control participants, and the incremental elastic modulus of the aortic arch and the
DA
o was higher than in patients with normal
CSA
s (arch: 90.1±64.3 versus 45.6±38.9 m/s;
DA
o: 86.3±53.7 versus 47.1±47.6 m/s;
P
<0.01). Incremental elastic modulus of the aortic arch and the
DA
o correlated with the
CSA
of the
DA
o (arch:
r
=0.5;
DA
o:
r
=0.49;
P
<0.01).

Conclusions

Children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome frequently show dilatation of their
DA
o associated with increased stiffness of the aortic arch. Higher aortic impedance increases the afterload of the systemic circulation and likely contributes to the burden of the systemic right ventricle.
Aristolochia weixiensis, a new species of Aristolochiaceae from Yunnan, China
Authors: Ma Jinshuang , ZHANG LIN , HUA ZHI-XIANG , CHEN GUANG-FU , LIAO SHUAI
Published: October 2015

Aristolochia weixiensis, a new species from northwest Yunnan, China, is described. A. weixiensis is affinis to A. moupinensis with similar leaf shape, but differs from the latter in the limb with dark purple colour and dense papillae, ca. 3.5 cm in diam., throat with light brown colour and dense brownish red patches, 13–16 mm in diam. Meanwhile, A. weixiensis is similar to A. wuana with similar leaves in shape, but differs in fruit and the size of leaf.
Leucosiid crabs from Papua New Guinea, with descriptions of eight new species (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura)
Authors: GALIL BELLA S. , NG PETER K. L.
Published: October 2015

Twenty-five species of leucosiid crabs are reported from Madang Province, Papua New Guinea. Of these, seven are new to science: two each are included in Alox Tan & Ng, 1995 and Tanaoa Galil, 2003, and one each in Ryphila Galil, 2009, Seulocia Galil, 2005, and Urnalana Galil, 2005. Fifteen additional species are new records for Papua New Guinea: Alox rugosum (Stimpson, 1858), Ancylodactyla nana (Zarenkov, 1990), Arcania heptacantha De Man, 1907, Heterolithadia fallax (Henderson, 1893), Hiplyra longimana (A. Milne Edwards, 1874), Myra curtimana Galil, 2001, M. digitata Galil 2004, Nursilia dentata Bell, 1855, Oreotlos etor Tan & Richer de Forges, 1993, Parilia major Sakai, 1961, Raylilia coniculifera Galil, 2001, R. uenoi (Takeda, 1995), Toru pilus (Tan, 1996), Urashima pustuloides (Sakai, 1961) and Leucosia rubripalma Galil, 2003. The new species are described and illustrated, and their affinities with allied taxa discussed. Colour photographs are provided for 20 species.
A further contribution to the knowledge of two inadequately known species of geophilid centipedes from the Andes of South-Central Chile, currently assigned to the genus Plateurytion Attems, 1909 (Chilopoda: Geophilomorpha)
Authors: PEREIRA LUIS ALBERTO
Published: October 2015

Two poorly known species of geophilid centipedes from the Andes of South-Central Chile, i.e., Plateurytion mundus (Chamberlin, 1955) and Plateurytion zapallar (Chamberlin, 1955) (Myriapoda: Chilopoda: Geophilomorpha), are herein redescribed and illustrated after type specimens of both taxa and new material of the latter, rectifying the condition of the coxosternites of the second maxillae, which are medially joined through a narrow, hyaline and non-areolate membranous isthmus only (instead of “broadly fused as in Pachymerium”, as stated by Chamberlin), this being consistent with the current generic assignment of these species under Plateurytion Attems, 1909. New data on many morphological features of specific value, until now unknown, are also given for both taxa. Plateurytion zapallar is reported for the first time from Coquimbo region, 11 Km N of Los Vilos (Elqui province), Valparaíso region, Quebrada Huaquén, Pichicuy (Petorca province), La Campana National Park (Quillota province), and Quebrada el Tigre, Cachagua (Valparíso province). A key for identification of the South American species currently included in Plateurytion is given.
Description of a new species of Trimma (Perciformes: Gobiidae) from the Red Sea, with a discussion of the generic separation of Trimma and Priolepis, with discussion of sensory papillae terminology
Authors: HOESE DOUGLASS F. , BOGORODSKY SERGEY V. , MAL AHMAD O.
Published: October 2015

A new species of Pygmygoby, Trimma quadrimaculatum, n. sp., is described from the Saudi Arabian coast of the Red Sea on the basis of 16 adult specimens. It is small-sized species, with the largest examined specimen reaching only 16.8 mm SL. The new species has characteristics of both Priolepis and Trimma, and easily may be confused with Priolepis randalli and Trimma mendelssohni; it can distinguish from other species by combination of characters: dorsal-fin rays D VI + I,8; anal-fin rays I,7; longitudinal scale series 23–25; median predorsal scales 6–8 (usually 7 or 8); head naked; a pair of modified elongate papillae on nape; fifth pelvic-fin ray with 2 dichotomous branches; body with broad, irregular, brown bars, last bar posteriorly on caudal peduncle extending basally on to rays of caudal fin; head with three dark brown bars below eye; four subcutaneous dark brown spots ventrally on posterior half of body; and basal quarter of second and third membranes of first dorsal fin with diffuse dark blotch. Placement of the new species in Trimma is based on the presence of more characteristics currently associated with Trimma than with Priolepis. The generic separation of the two genera is discussed, suggesting that further work is needed to clarify the separation of these two genera.
Two new species of Parasaveljevia Wieser, 1953 (Thoracostomopsidae, Nematoda) from Argentinean coasts (Chubut, Argentina)
Authors: PASTOR CATALINA , RUSSO VIRGINIA LO , VILLARES GABRIELA
Published: October 2015

Two new Parasavaljevia species are described, one from Puerto Madryn, and one from El Límite beach, San Jorge Gulf, Chubut Province, Argentina. The two species are characterised by a combination of characters. Parasavaljevia uncinoa n. sp. is characterised by having a long rectangular cirrus, positioned at the level of the inner labial setae, rectangular mandibles with prominent lateral hooks bearing denticles in three lines of nine each, and six cephalic setae of the same length, inserted at the anterior end of a small head capsule. Parasavaljevia limitense n. sp. is characterized by having a cirrus posterior positioned, between the labial and cephalic setae, rectangular-arched mandibles bearing denticles in five lines of ten each in a gradient of sizes; a small buccal cavity, small cephalic capsule and abundant cervical setae (4+10). An emendation of the genus diagnosis and a new key are given and discussed.
Prodasineura hoffmanni sp. nov. (Odonata, Platycnemididae, Disparoneurinae) from eastern Cambodia
Authors: KOSTERIN OLEG E.
Published: October 2015

Prodasineura hoffmanni sp. nov. is described from Annamense Mountains in eastern Cambodia (holotype: Cambodia, Mondulkiri Province, 4.2 km SE of Dak Dam village, 12°23'10-18'' N 107°19'22-30'' E, 877-878 m asl, 14. VI. 2014, RMNH). The species has a blue pattern, and the male is characterised by medium-broad blue stripes on synthorax and blue colour at the end of the abdomen confined to a tiny spot on S9, dorsum of S10 and cerci. A female of P. doisuthepensis Hoess, 2007 is described. Based on original descriptions, the following synonymy is proposed: Prodasineura fujianensis Xu, 2006 = Prodasineura huai Zhou et Zhou, 2007, syn. n.
Fossil carabids from Baltic amber—III—Tarsitachys bilobus Erwin, 1971
an interesting fossil ground beetle from Baltic amber (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Trechinae): Redescription and comments on its taxonomic placement
Authors: ORTUÑO VICENTE M. , ARILLO ANTONIO
Published: October 2015

Tarsitachys bilobus (Coleoptera, Carabidae) is a fossil species described by Erwin from Baltic amber. Its description was based on only one known specimen, and thus, part of its anatomical structures were unknown as they were poorly preserved in the Holotype. In this paper we complete the description with a second specimen. A new placement among Tachyina and a new status for the genus are proposed.
Description of the larva of Epigomphus crepidus Kennedy, 1936 (Odonata: Gomphidae)
Authors: NOVELO-GUTIÉRREZ RODOLFO , GÓMEZ-ANAYA JOSÉ ANTONIO , SMITH-GÓMEZ SERGIO ALEJANDRO
Published: October 2015

The larva of Epigomphus crepidus Kennedy is described and figured and compared with other described congeners. It is characterized by 3rd antennomere spindle-shaped, flattened dorso-ventrally, twice longer than its widest part; ventral pad of hypopharynx pentagonal; prementum subrectangular, with lateral margins slightly convex on apical 0.60; ligula very poorly developed, with a ventral row of nine short, truncate teeth on middle, and dorsal rows of short, stout piliform setae. Abdomen lacking dorsal protuberances, lateral spines on S7–9 divergent; sternites 3–8 divided into five plates, sternites 2 and 9 divided into three plates; male epiproct with a pair of dorsal tubercles rounded apically and divergent at basal 0.30. It differs from other species mainly in 3rd antennomere, sides of prementum and serrations on lateral margins of S7–9.
A pictorial key to the species of the Aedes (Zavortinkius) in the Afrotropical Region (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: HUANG YIAU-MIN , RUEDA LEOPOLDO M.
Published: October 2015

Six species of the subgenus Zavortinkius of Aedes Meigen in the Afrotropical Region are treated in a pictorial key based on diagnostic morphological features. Images of the diagnostic morphological structures of the adult thorax and leg are included.
Sex Differences in Patients With Acute Decompensated Heart Failure
Authors: AlFaleh Hussam F. , Thalib Lukman , Kashour Tarek , Hersi Ahmad , Mimish Layth , Elasfar Abdelfatah A. , Almasood Ali , Al Ghamdi Saleh , Ghabashi Abdullah , Malik Asif , Hussein Gamal A. , Al-Murayeh Mushabab , Abuosa Ahmed , Al Habeeb Waleed , Al Habib Khalid F.
Published: October 2015

We assessed sex-specific differences in clinical features and outcomes of patients with acute heart failure (AHF). The Heart function Assessment Registry Trial in Saudi Arabia (HEARTS), a prospective registry, enrolled 2609 patients with AHF (34.2% women) between 2009 and 2010. Women were older and more likely to have risk factors for atherosclerosis, history of heart failure (HF), and rheumatic heart and valve disease. Ischemic heart disease was the prime cause for HF in men and women but more so in men ( P < .001). Women had higher rates of hypertensive heart disease and primary valve disease ( P < .001, for both comparisons). Men were more likely to have severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction. On discharge, a higher use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, β-blockers, and aldosterone inhibitors was observed in men ( P < .001 for all comparisons). Apart from higher atrial fibrillation in women and higher ventricular arrhythmias in men, no differences were observed in hospital outcomes. The overall survival did not differ between men and women (hazard ratio: 1.0, 95% confidence interval: 0.8-1.2, P = .981). Men and women with AHF differ significantly in baseline clinical characteristics and management but not in adverse outcomes.
Morphologic variations of lip-print patterns in a Central Indian population: A preliminary study
Authors: Badiye Ashish , Kapoor Neeti
Published: October 2015

Lip prints can provide vital information that may be useful for the purposes of forensic investigations. The current study was undertaken with the aims of determining the distribution and predominant lip-print patterns in a Central Indian (Marathi) population and evaluating whether any sex differences exist. The study subjects were 400 healthy consenting volunteers – 200 males and 200 females – aged 18–25 years, from the Marathi community. A simpler and more convenient method of data collection – digital photography – was used. The central (most motile) 1 cm2 portion of both upper and lower lips was analysed digitally. As per Suzuki and Tsuchihashi’s classification, overall, Type IV (27.5%) and Type III (6.25%) were found to be the most and least prevalent patterns, respectively. The Type II (32%) lip-print pattern was found to be most predominant in males, while Type IV (32.5%) was found to be most commonly occurring in females. Statistically significant differences ( p < .01) were observed between lip-print pattern types in males and females.
Micro-CT supporting structural analysis and modelling of ropes made of natural fibers
Authors: Toda Marta , Grabowska Katarzyna E , Ciesielska-Wrobel Izabela L
Published: October 2015

This paper describes the modelling of the structure and mechanical parameters of rope components made of natural fibers. Modern X-ray micro-tomography (Micro-CT) was employed to measure the parameters of the internal structure of the multi-component yarns making up rope and utilized as a basic model of twisted rope. The results allowed calculation of the tensions generated in the component yarns and detection of the unevenness of the filling of the component yarns by fibers, which was clearly visible in cross-section. The unevenness of twist measured as a function of distance from the center of the yarn was also detected. The unevenness of fiber distribution in the twisted element decreased its intensity, starting from the surface of the yarn and going deeper into the structure. Migration of the fibers in the frame of the circumference of the component yarns was associated with the mutual slide of single fibers.
Access and Mobilization: How Social Capital Relates to Low-Income Youth’s Postsecondary Educational (PSE) Attainment
Authors: Ashtiani Mariam , Feliciano Cynthia
Published: October 2015

Youth from advantaged backgrounds have more social relationships that provide access to resources facilitating their educational success than those from low-income families. Does access to and mobilization of social capital also relate to success among the few low-income youth who “overcome the odds” and persist in higher education? Using nationally representative longitudinal data over a 14-year period, this study shows that although access to social capital in families, schools, and communities is positively related to entry into higher education, most forms of adolescent social capital are not independently associated with degree attainment. However, the mobilization of social capital through certain types of mentorship benefits both the college entry and bachelor’s degree attainment of low-income youth, more so than for their more economically advantaged peers. Findings suggest that developing enduring mentoring relationships and new social resources rooted in the higher education context may be especially important in facilitating degree attainment for young adults from low-income backgrounds.
Understanding Children’s Television Exposure From a Life Logistics Perspective: A Longitudinal Study of the Association Between Mothers’ Working Hours and Young Children’s Television Time
Authors: Beyens Ine , Eggermont Steven
Published: October 2015

Prior research has suggested that mothers’ life logistics may increase opportunities for children to watch television. However, associations between structural circumstances of mothers’ lives and levels of children’s television use have not been empirically investigated. The contribution of this study is that it investigates maternal structural life circumstances longitudinally associated with children’s television time and potential mechanisms underlying this association. More specifically, the study examined the association between mothers’ working hours and children’s television time, and the mediating roles of mothers’ parenting time pressure and well-being in this relationship. Structural equation modeling using data from a two-wave panel survey of mothers of 1- to 4-year-olds ( N = 404) demonstrated a longitudinal relationship between mothers’ working hours and children’s television time. This relationship was mediated by mothers’ parenting time pressure and well-being, indicating that high maternal working hours create parenting time pressure and undermine mothers’ well-being, which encourages children to watch more television.
Design and comparison of LQR and a novel robust backstepping controller for supercavitating vehicles
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Wei Yanhui , Han Yuntao , Bai Tao , Ma Kemao
Published: October 2015

Traditional underwater vehicles are limited in speed due to dramatic friction drag on the hull. Supercavitating vehicles exploit supercavitation as a means to reduce drag and increase their underwater speed. Compared with fully wetted vehicles, the non-linearity in the modelling of cavitator, fin and in particular the planing force make the control design of supercavitating vehicles more challenging. Dominant non-linearities associated with planing force are taken into account in the model of supercavitating vehicles in this paper. Two controllers are proposed to realize stable system dynamics and tracking responses, a linear quadratic regulator (LQR) control scheme and a robust backstepping control (RBC) scheme. The proposed backstepping procedure, in association with integral filters technique, exploits the possibility of avoiding the overparameterization problem existing in the classical backstepping process. In particular, the achieved stability is robust to modelling errors in supercavitating vehicles. Compared with the LQR control scheme, the RBC scheme is seen to increase the robustness with saturation compensation algorithm, which can be useful for avoiding actuator saturation in magnitude.
Religion in the Afrosphere
Authors: Boutros Alexandra
Published: October 2015

The Afrosphere is a diverse field of social media marked by a willingness to engage issues of shared or collective concern for inhabitants of the “Black Atlantic” or the “Black diaspora.” By looking at blogs as a form of public address, this analysis examines instances of religion in the Afrosphere as components of strategic identification around what Stephan Palmié terms “black collective selfhood.” Considering both the technological affordances and cultural contexts of blogging, this analysis explores the intersection of race and religion in the Afrosphere as constitutive of digital counterpublic discourse. Building on textual analysis of blog posts, this analysis outlines how meaning is formed, fixed, and contested in discussions of religion in the Afrosphere. This analysis argues that the intersection of race and religion within this digital counterpublic makes particular iterations of the Black diaspora visible.
The Role of State Revenue Structure in the Occurrence and Magnitude of Negative Revenue Variance
Authors: Jordan Meagan M. , Yan Wenli , Hooshmand Somayeh
Published: October 2015

A negative revenue variance (also known as a revenue shortfall) is generated when the actual inflow of revenue falls short of the budgeted revenue. In an environment constrained by a balanced budget requirement, a negative revenue variance may result in a compensating cut in program expenditures. As such, it is imperative to explore the drivers of negative revenue variance. To answer these questions, we take a look at the states’ revenue mix, specifically, the diversification and elasticity of a state’s revenue structure. We establish a quantitative model to capture factors that affect the occurrence and magnitude of negative revenue variance. Our findings suggest that revenue diversification reduces both the occurrence and the size of a negative revenue variance. Elasticity, on the contrary, increases the occurrence but reduces the magnitude of the negative revenue variance. These findings provide additional evidence for the importance of fiscal planning and design of revenue structure that includes consideration of both diversification and elasticity of the revenue portfolio. Specifically, elasticity and diversification can be used in tandem to address an existing revenue shortfall.
Coping with Poverty through Internalization and Resistance
Authors: Yurdakul Dicle , Atik Deniz
Published: October 2015

Marketing and consumer research literatures have been enriched through a growing interest of academics and practitioners for poverty research, which have mostly focused on describing the life and culture in poverty and the coping strategies of the poor. In this study, we go one step further, showing how low-income consumers’ reactions and coping strategies differ, in relation to the impact of the marketing institution on their lives. We thus contribute to the previous literature through investigating the interplay between internalization and resistance, in shaping consumers’ reactions to their poor conditions in particular, and to the marketing institution in general. Discourses produced by our informants reveal the significant use of religious beliefs by the poor in developing certain coping strategies and in the different stances they take towards poverty. We propose a framework to articulate this role of religion by identifying the resistance and internalization processes as a response to poverty.
Virtues of a Hardworking Role Model to Improve Girls’ Mathematics Performance
Authors: Bagès Céline , Verniers Catherine , Martinot Delphine
Published: October 2015

Previous research has shown that female role models can improve women’s math performance, whereas male role models can lower it. In this field experiment, we examined the following research questions: (a) Does the explanation a role model gives for the role model’s success in math help girls perform as well as boys in math, regardless of the role model’s gender? And (b) what are the underlying mechanisms of the role models’ influence? Sixth graders were exposed to the description of a female or male role model before a difficult math test; they were informed about the reason for the role model’s math success (exerted effort vs. being gifted vs. no explanation). The results indicated that girls scored as well as boys on a difficult math test after exposure to a hardworking role model. They performed less well than boys after exposure to a role model whose success was not explained or was explained by the role model’s gift. Moreover, serial mediation analyses showed that both boys and girls identified more with the hardworking role model than with the other two role models, which increased the boys’ and girls’ perceived self-efficacy in math and in turn increased math performance. We discuss the contributions of this study to identifying relevant role models for girls in math.
Institutional Reforms and the Effects of Family Control on Corporate Governance
Authors: Lien Yung-Chih , Teng Chia-Chen , Li Shaomin
Published: October 2015

According to the institution-based view of corporate governance, firm-governance efficiency is influenced by the institutional environment in which the firm operates. In this study, we examine how firms under a family-governance system adapted to institutional reforms over time. The results of the analysis indicate that institutional reforms reduce firm dependence on family governance and eliminate the negative effects on performance exerted by a controlling family’s pyramidal ownership structure. We also find that institutional reforms foster external corporate governance by domestic institutional investors. In conclusion, our study shows that institutional reforms alter the essence of family firm governance.
Online discourse of masculinities in transnational football fandom: Chinese Arsenal fans’ talk around ‘gaofushuai’ and ‘diaosi’
Authors: Gong Yuan
Published: October 2015

This study examines the constructions of masculine discourse by Chinese fans of European football through online discussions. A critical discourse analysis of 50 online discussions by Chinese Arsenal fans shows how these fans use ‘gaofushuai’ and ‘diaosi’ to reproduce, contest, and racialize the dominant masculine order originally embedded in these two masculine terms. It also discovers these fans’ enactment of fluid gender identities in their self-reference to the terms during interactions. Yet the patriarchal assumption still prevails in their discursive struggles, forming football and its fandom as completely gendered practices. This complex process is seen as the negotiation between the globalized European football culture and the local cultural meanings for Chinese masculinities. It offers implications for how the cyberspace of transnational sports fandom can form a site for discursive struggles over the hegemonic masculinity in contemporary China.
“Playing the gender card”: Media representations of Julia Gillard’s sexism and misogyny speech
Authors: Worth Anna , Augoustinos Martha , Hastie Brianne
Published: October 2015

What is at stake for women who challenge sexism? In October 2012, Australia’s first female Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, delivered a speech in Parliament in which she accused the Leader of the Opposition, Tony Abbott, of sexism and misogyny. The speech attracted local and international media coverage, and sparked widespread debate about precisely what constitutes sexism and misogyny, and whether the accusation was justified. This study adopts a discursive psychological approach to analyse a corpus of 216 articles published in the Australian print media in the week following the speech. The analysis identifies common discursive patterns and resources used to construct and represent sexism and examines the ways in which this accusation of sexism was dismissed, minimised and undermined. The analysis also demonstrates how Gillard’s identity was negatively constructed and problematized, and the implications this may have for other women who wish to confront sexism. Finally, the analysis suggests that silence is privileged over speaking up against sexism, and provides evidence for the existence of an ideological dilemma – in which speaking up against sexism is considered “dangerous”, but failing to do so is to tolerate an injustice.
Securitization of media reporting on climate change? A cross-national analysis in nine countries
Authors: Schäfer Mike S , Scheffran Jürgen , Penniket Logan
Published: October 2015

Security implications of climate change have been highlighted by various political and advisory bodies, as well as non-governmental organizations (NGOs), in recent years. It is unclear, however, whether such a ‘securitization’ of climate change can also be found beyond institutionalized politics in the public realm, and beyond Western countries. This article addresses these questions by investigating mass media coverage in nine countries over a period of 15 years. Based on an analysis of more than 101,000 newspaper articles, it shows an increasing discussion of climate change in security terms, with diverging trends in the analysed countries. While Western, industrialized countries such as the USA, the UK or Australia display an increasing securitization of climate change, the amount of securitizing language has decreased in India and South Africa. Moreover, different countries refer to different security dimensions – with regard both to the subjects whose security is of concern (national security, human security) and to the type of resources that are discussed in security terms (energy security, water security, food security). While Western countries strongly focus on national security and energy security, emerging economies place greater emphasis on food and, less pronounced, on water security.