bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain Arousal Regulation in Carriers of Bipolar Disorder Risk Alleles
Authors: Jawinski Philippe , Sander Christian , Mauche Nicole , Spada Janek , Huang Jue , Schmidt Anna , Häntzsch Madlen , Burkhardt Ralph , Scholz Markus , Hegerl Ulrich , Hensch Tilman
Published: October 2015

Objectives: Recent genome-wide association studies identified a number of chromosomal risk loci for bipolar disorder (BD, ‘manic-depressive illness'). According to the vigilance regulation model, the regulation of brain arousal (referred to as ‘vigilance') when assessed via EEG is an emerging biomarker linked to the pathogenesis of manic and depressive episodes. On this basis, the present study aimed to assess whether carriers of BD risk alleles differ in brain arousal regulation. Methods: Healthy participants of the population-based Leipzig Health Care Study (LIFE) underwent a 20-min eyes-closed resting EEG paradigm. Brain arousal was assessed applying the computer-based Vigilance Algorithm Leipzig (VIGALL). The primary sample (n = 540) was genotyped for ten of the most reliable BD risk variants, of which two qualified for replication (n = 509). Results: Primary sample analyses revealed Bonferroni-adjusted significance for rs1006737 in CACNA1C (encoding a calcium channel subunit), with risk allele carriers exhibiting relatively steep brain arousal declines. Further, carriers of two risk alleles of rs472913 at 1p32.1 showed generally lower brain arousal levels for the duration of the resting paradigm. However, both associations failed replication. Conclusion: Although our initial findings are in line with the vigilance regulation model and convincing in view of the previously reported notable role of ion channelopathies in BD, our results do not provide consistent evidence for a link between BD risk variants and brain arousal regulation. Several between-sample differences may account for this inconsistency. The molecular genetics of brain arousal regulation remain to be clarified.
Valproic Acid Improves Porcine Parthenogenetic Embryo Development Through Transient Remodeling of Histone Modifiers
Authors: Huang Yongye , Yuan Lin , Li Tianye , Wang Anfeng , Li Zhanjun , Pang Daxin , Wang Bing , Ouyang Hongsheng
Published: October 2015

Background/Aims: Parthenogenetic embryos are useful in many applications, such as being an alternative source of embryonic stem cells that would avoid ethical problems. Aberrance in epigenetic reprogramming is considered the major reason for the developmental failure of parthenogenetic embryos. Many histone deacetylase inhibitors have been shown to improve the reprogramming of stem cells and embryos. Here, the relationship between histone modification and parthenogenetic embryonic development was explored. Methods: Valproic acid (VPA) treatment was applied during the culture of parthenogenetic embryos. The abundance of histone modifiers was examined by immunofluorescence and quantified by Image-pro software. Results: The acH3K9 level in in vitro fertilized embryos was significantly higher than parthenogenetic embryos. VPA treatment improved both the blastocyst formation rate and the acH3K9 level in parthenogenetic embryos. The signal intensities of acH4K5 and H3K4me2 were also enhanced in VPA treated embryos. The H3K27me2 level was decreased in the VPA treated embryos at the 2-cell stage. However, the enhancement in the acH3K9, acH4K5 and H3K4me2 level, or the decrease in the H3K27me2 level disappeared shortly after VPA withdrawal. Conclusion: Optimizing histone modifications for a short time following activation was sufficient to enhance the in vitro development of parthenogenetic embryos.
Chinese Herbal Formulas Si-Wu-Tang and Er-Miao-San Synergistically Ameliorated Hyperuricemia and Renal Impairment in Rats Induced by Adenine and Potassium Oxonate
Authors: Guo Yongping , Jiang Qian , Gui Dingkun , Wang Niansong
Published: October 2015

Background/Aims: Hyperuricemia is an independent risk factor for chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. Here, we examined the combined protective effects of Chinese herbal formula Si-Wu-Tang and Er-Miao-San on hyperuricemia and renal impairment in rats. Methods: Rats were randomly divided into normal rats, hyperuricemic rats, and hyperuricemic rats orally administrated with benzbromarone (4.5 mg·kg-1·d-1), Si-Wu-Tang (3.78 g·kg-1·d-1) and Si-Wu-Tang plus Er-Miao-San (6.48 g·kg-1·d-1) for 4 weeks. Hyperuricemic rats were orally gavaged with adenine (0.1 g·kg-1·d-1) and potassium oxonate (1.5 g·kg-1·d-1) daily for 4 weeks. Serum uric acid, creatinine, total cholesterol (TCH), triglyceride and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) concentrations, as well as urinary uric acid and microalbuminuria were measured weekly. Serum xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity and renal histopathology were also evaluated. The renal expression of organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1) and organic anion transporter 3 (OAT3) was detected by western blot. Results: Si-Wu-Tang plus Er-Miao-San lowered serum uric acid, creatinine, triglyceride and BUN levels to a greater degree than did Si-Wu-Tang alone. Si-Wu-Tang plus Er-Miao-San ameliorated microalbuminuria and renal histopathology, as well as decreased serum TCH concentration and XOD activity in hyperuricemic rats. Combination of Si-Wu-Tang and Er-Miao-San also led to a greater increase in OAT1 and OAT3 expression than did Siwutang alone. Conclusion: Si-Wu-Tang and Er-Miao-San synergistically ameliorated hyperuricemia and renal impairment in rats through upregulation of OAT1 and OAT3.
A Risk Model for Surgical Site Infection in the Gastric Cancer Surgery Using Data of 790 Patients
Authors: Ushiku Hideki , Hosoda Kei , Yamashita Keishi , Katada Natsuya , Kikuchi Shiro , Tsuruta Harukazu , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: October 2015

Background: Understanding risk factors of surgical site infections (SSIs) in gastrectomy is important to provide the best treatment for the patients with gastric cancer. Methods: This is a retrospective observational study using the medical records of 790 patients with gastrectomy from 2005 through 2009. SSIs were classified into incisional SSIs (iSSIs) and organ/space SSIs (o/sSSIs). Results: iSSIs and o/sSSIs were detected in 41 (5.2%) patients and 68 (8.6%) patients, respectively. Open surgery was the only independent risk factor (p = 0.028) for iSSIs, while open surgery (p = 0.004), concurrent splenectomy (p < 0.001), operative time ≥220 min (p = 0.009), preoperative body mass index ≥20.8 kg/m2 (p = 0.004) and male gender (p = 0.028) were the independent risk factors for o/sSSIs. We created a risk model for o/sSSIs using these independent risk factors. The C-index model discrimination was 0.84 (p < 0.001), and the calibration of the models demonstrated a linear correlation between the predicted and observed probability. Conclusion: We reported the risk factors of SSIs for gastrectomy. The risk model developed in this study for o/sSSIs pertaining to gastric cancer surgery would contribute to provide guidance for the development of best practices.
Evaluation of 4DryField® PH as Adhesion Prevention Barrier Tested in an Optimized Adhesion Model in Rats
Authors: Poehnert Daniel , Abbas Mahmoud , Kreipe Hans-Heinrich , Klempnauer Juergen , Winny Markus
Published: October 2015

Background: Adhesions due to pelvic/abdominal surgery are a common serious pathology possibly entailing severe complications. This study investigates the adhesion prevention capability of the novel starch-based agent 4DryField® PH, which together with saline solution forms a barrier gel. Herein, an optimized adhesion model (OPAM) inducing severe adhesions/agglutinations with high reproducibility was used. Methods: In 19 Lewis rats, a 1 × 2 cm abdominal wall defect was created, the peritoneum of the neighboring cecum was abraded, and both injured areas were approximated by suture. Rats were randomized to control (n = 10) or 4DryField PH treatment (n = 9) groups. Another 8 rats had sham surgery for safety assessment of 4DryField PH. At day 7, the quantity and quality of adhesions were assessed macro-/microscopically and evaluated statistically. Results: 4DryField PH treatment significantly reduced the incidence and severity of adhesions as verified by significantly improved adhesion scorings (0.4 vs. 4.5; 1.1 vs. 9). Histology revealed reconstitution of the cecum and abdominal wall including regeneration of the visceral/parietal peritoneum. In sham-operated rats, 4DryField PH did not induce adhesion formation. Conclusions: 4DryField PH gel was highly effective in preventing adhesions. Histologically, the injured cecum and abdominal wall regenerated well in the presence of 4DryField PH. Considering the severity of OPAM trauma, the potential of 4DryField PH to prevent adhesions can be rated excellent.
Update on the Global Burden of Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke in 1990-2013: The GBD 2013 Study
Authors: Feigin Valery L. , Krishnamurthi Rita V. , Parmar Priya , Norrving Bo , Mensah George A. , Bennett Derrick A. , Barker-Collo Suzanne , Moran Andrew E. , Sacco Ralph L. , Truelsen Thomas , Davis Stephen , Pandian Jeyaraj Durai , Naghavi Mohsen , Forouzanfar Mohammad H. , Nguyen Grant , Johnson Catherine O. , Vos Theo , Meretoja Atte , Murray Christopher J.L. , Roth Gregory A. ,   GBD 2013 Writing Group and GBD 2013 Stroke Panel Experts Group
Published: October 2015

Background: Global stroke epidemiology is changing rapidly. Although age-standardized rates of stroke mortality have decreased worldwide in the past 2 decades, the absolute numbers of people who have a stroke every year, and live with the consequences of stroke or die from their stroke, are increasing. Regular updates on the current level of stroke burden are important for advancing our knowledge on stroke epidemiology and facilitate organization and planning of evidence-based stroke care. Objectives: This study aims to estimate incidence, prevalence, mortality, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and years lived with disability (YLDs) and their trends for ischemic stroke (IS) and hemorrhagic stroke (HS) for 188 countries from 1990 to 2013. Methodology: Stroke incidence, prevalence, mortality, DALYs and YLDs were estimated using all available data on mortality and stroke incidence, prevalence and excess mortality. Statistical models and country-level covariate data were employed, and all rates were age-standardized to a global population. All estimates were produced with 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs). Results: In 2013, there were globally almost 25.7 million stroke survivors (71% with IS), 6.5 million deaths from stroke (51% died from IS), 113 million DALYs due to stroke (58% due to IS) and 10.3 million new strokes (67% IS). Over the 1990-2013 period, there was a significant increase in the absolute number of DALYs due to IS, and of deaths from IS and HS, survivors and incident events for both IS and HS. The preponderance of the burden of stroke continued to reside in developing countries, comprising 75.2% of deaths from stroke and 81.0% of stroke-related DALYs. Globally, the proportional contribution of stroke-related DALYs and deaths due to stroke compared to all diseases increased from 1990 (3.54% (95% UI 3.11-4.00) and 9.66% (95% UI 8.47-10.70), respectively) to 2013 (4.62% (95% UI 4.01-5.30) and 11.75% (95% UI 10.45-13.31), respectively), but there was a diverging trend in developed and developing countries with a significant increase in DALYs and deaths in developing countries, and no measurable change in the proportional contribution of DALYs and deaths from stroke in developed countries. Conclusion: Global stroke burden continues to increase globally. More efficient stroke prevention and management strategies are urgently needed to halt and eventually reverse the stroke pandemic, while universal access to organized stroke services should be a priority.
Quantitative Computed Tomography Measurement of Tracheal Cross-Sectional Areas in Relapsing Polychondritis: Correlations with Spirometric Values
Authors: Usuba Ayano , Yamashiro Tsuneo , Handa Hiroshi , Matsuoka Shin , Yamano Yoshihisa , Mineshita Masamichi , Miyazawa Teruomi
Published: October 2015

Background: Although tracheal stenosis occurs in relapsing polychondritis (RP), no studies exist that have clarified correlations between quantitative airway measurement and spirometry in RP patients. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate correlations between the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the trachea and spirometric values in patients with RP. Methods: The institutional review board approved this retrospective study, and written informed consent was waived. Twenty-six patients with RP underwent spirometry and chest computed tomography (CT) at full inspiration and end-expiration. On inspiratory and expiratory chest CT images, CSA at the intrathoracic trachea was measured for all CT slices, and the mean and minimum tracheal CSA were obtained. Correlations between the tracheal CSA and spirometric values were assessed by Spearman's rank correlation analysis. Results: Tracheal CSA measurements for inspiratory and expiratory scans were significantly correlated with FEV1, FEV25-75%, and peak flow values (ρ = 0.51-0.86, p < 0.01). During each inspiratory or expiratory phase, the minimum tracheal CSA achieved a higher correlation coefficient with spirometric values than the mean CSA. Conclusion: Tracheal dimensions for both inspiratory and expiratory CT are significant predictors of pulmonary function in patients with RP. The narrowest tracheal dimension likely determines the severity of airflow limitation in RP.
The Glass Slide Extraction System Snap Card Improves Non-Invasive Prenatal Genotyping in Pregnancies with Antibodies
Authors: Adamczyk Thomasz , Doescher Andrea , Haydock Paul V. , Aldrich Russ , Petershofen Eduard K. , Müller Thomas H.
Published: October 2015

Background: Determination of fetal blood groups in maternal plasma samples critically depends on adequate pre-analytical steps for optimal amplification of fetal DNA. We compared the extraction of cell-free DNA by binding on a glass surface (BCSI SNAP™ Card) with an automated system based on bead technology (MagnaPure compact™). Methods: Maternal blood samples from 281 pregnancies (7th-39th week of gestation) with known antibodies were evaluated in this study. Both the SNAP card and the MagnaPure method were applied to isolate DNA in order to directly compare the amplification in a single base extension assay and/or real-time PCR. Results: The mean concentration of total DNA obtained by the SNAP card (33.8 ng/µl) exceeded more than twofold that of MagnaPure extraction (15.7 ng/µl). SNAP card-extracted samples allowed to detect 3.7 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) versus 2.5 SNPs in MagnaPure extracts to control for traces of fetal DNA. This difference is highest for samples from 7th-13th week of gestation. Conclusion: The SNAP card system improves DNA extraction efficacy for prenatal diagnosis in maternal blood samples and provides an at least eightfold higher total amount of DNA for the ensuing analysis. Its advantage is most evident for samples from early stages of pregnancy and thus especially valuable for pregnancies with antibodies.
Association of Patient Enrollment in Medicare Part D With Outcomes After Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Goyal Abhinav , de Lemos James A. , Peng S. Andrew , Thomas Laine , Amsterdam Ezra A. , Hockenberry Jason M. , Peterson Eric D. , Wang Tracy Y.
Published: October 2015

Background—

Little is known about whether enrollment versus nonenrollment in Medicare’s prescription drug plan (Part D) is associated with better outcomes after acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Methods and Results—

Using Medicare records linked to Acute Coronary Treatment and Intervention Outcomes Network Registry–Get With The Guidelines, we identified 59 149 Medicare beneficiaries (age ≥65 years) discharged after AMI between January 2007 and December 2010. We described trends in Medicare Part D enrollment, and compared the following 30-day and 1-year outcomes: all-cause death, all-cause readmissions, and major adverse cardiac events (a composite of all-cause death or readmission for AMI or stroke) between Part D enrollees and nonenrollees, after adjustment for patient and hospital factors. From 2007 to 2010, 29 264 (49.5%) patients with AMI enrolled in Medicare were also participating in Part D by hospital discharge. All-cause 30-day death was more common among enrollees versus nonenrollees (4.0% versus 3.3%), but this difference was not statistically significant after multivariable adjustment (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.06 [95% confidence interval, 0.97–1.17]). Enrollees also had higher unadjusted risks of 30-day all-cause readmissions or major adverse cardiac events, and 1-year mortality, all-cause readmissions, or major adverse cardiac events, but these were attenuated after multivariable adjustment. Adherence to key secondary prevention medications (statins, β-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, and P2Y
12
antagonists) remained low (range, 55%–64%) at 1 year post discharge among Part D enrollees.

Conclusions—

Only half of Medicare-insured patients with AMI were enrolled in Part D by hospital discharge, and their 30-day and 1-year adjusted outcomes did not differ substantially from nonenrollees. There remain opportunities for improvement in medication adherence among patients with prescription drug coverage.
Genetic Ablation of Extra Domain A of Fibronectin in Hypercholesterolemic Mice Improves Stroke Outcome by Reducing Thrombo-Inflammation
Authors: Dhanesha Nirav , Ahmad Ajmal , Prakash Prem , Doddapattar Prakash , Lentz Steven R. , Chauhan Anil K.
Published: October 2015

Background—

The fibronectin-splicing variant containing extra domain A (Fn-EDA) is present in negligible amounts in the plasma of healthy humans but markedly elevated in patients with comorbid conditions, including diabetes mellitus and hypercholesterolemia, which are risk factors for stroke. It remains unknown, however, whether Fn-EDA worsens stroke outcomes in such conditions. We determined the role of Fn-EDA in stroke outcome in a model of hypercholesterolemia, the apolipoprotein E–deficient (Apoe
−/−
) mouse.

Methods and Results—

In a transient cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury model, Apoe
−/−
mice expressing fibronectin deficient in EDA (Fn-EDA
−/−
Apoe
−/−
mice) exhibited smaller infarcts and improved neurological outcomes at days 1 and 8 (
P
<0.05 versus Apoe
−/−
mice). Concomitantly, intracerebral thrombosis [assessed by fibrin(ogen) deposition] and postischemic inflammation (phospho–nuclear factor-κB p65, phospho–IκB kinase α/β, interleukin 1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α) within lesions of Fn-EDA
−/−
Apoe
−/−
mice were markedly decreased (
P
<0.05 versus Apoe
−/−
mice). In an FeCl
3
injury–induced carotid artery thrombosis model, thrombus growth rate and the time to occlusion were prolonged in Fn-EDA
−/−
Apoe
−/−
mice (
P
<0.05 versus Apoe
−/−
mice). Genetic ablation of TLR4 improved stroke outcome in Apoe
−/−
mice (
P
<0.05) but had no effect on stroke outcome in Fn-EDA
−/−
Apoe
−/−
mice. Bone marrow transplantation experiments revealed that nonhematopoietic cell–derived Fn-EDA exacerbates stroke through Toll-like receptor-4 expressed on hematopoietic cells. Infusion of a specific inhibitor of Fn-EDA into Apoe
−/−
mouse 15 minutes after reperfusion significantly improved stroke outcome.

Conclusions—

Hypercholesterolemic mice deficient in Fn-EDA exhibit reduced cerebral thrombosis and less inflammatory response after ischemia/reperfusion injury. These findings suggest that targeting Fn-EDA could be an effective therapeutic strategy in stroke associated with hypercholesterolemia.
Shock Wave Treatment Protects From Neuronal Degeneration via a Toll‐Like Receptor 3 Dependent Mechanism: Implications of a First‐Ever Causal Treatment for Ischemic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Lobenwein Daniela , Tepeköylü Can , Kozaryn Radoslaw , Pechriggl Elisabeth J. , Bitsche Mario , Graber Michael , Fritsch Helga , Semsroth Severin , Stefanova Nadia , Paulus Patrick , Czerny Martin , Grimm Michael , Holfeld Johannes
Published: October 2015

Background

Paraplegia following spinal cord ischemia represents a devastating complication of both aortic surgery and endovascular aortic repair. Shock wave treatment was shown to induce angiogenesis and regeneration in ischemic tissue by modulation of early inflammatory response via Toll‐like receptor (
TLR)
3 signaling. In preclinical and clinical studies,
shock wave treatment
had a favorable effect on ischemic myocardium. We hypothesized that
shock wave treatment
also may have a beneficial effect on spinal cord ischemia.

Methods and Results

A spinal cord ischemia model in mice and spinal slice cultures ex vivo were performed. Treatment groups received immediate shock wave therapy, which resulted in decreased neuronal degeneration and improved motor function. In spinal slice cultures, the activation of TLR3 could be observed. Shock wave effects were abolished in spinal slice cultures from
TLR
3
−/−
mice, whereas the effect was still present in
TLR
4
−/−
mice.
TLR
4 protein was found to be downregulated parallel to
TLR
3 signaling. Shock wave–treated animals showed significantly better functional outcome and survival. The protective effect on neurons could be reproduced in human spinal slices.

Conclusions

Shock wave treatment protects from neuronal degeneration via
TLR
3 signaling and subsequent
TLR
4 downregulation. Consequently, it represents a promising treatment option for the devastating complication of spinal cord ischemia after aortic repair.
Benefits of Stroke Treatment Using a Mobile Stroke Unit Compared With Standard Management
Authors: Bowry Ritvij , Parker Stephanie , Rajan Suja S. , Yamal Jose-Miguel , Wu Tzu-Ching , Richardson Laura , Noser Elizabeth , Persse David , Jackson Kamilah , Grotta James C.
Published: October 2015

Background and Purpose—

Faster treatment with intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) is likely to improve outcomes. Optimizing prehospital triage by mobile stroke units (MSUs) may speed treatment times. The Benefits of Stroke Treatment Delivered Using a Mobile Stroke Unit (BEST-MSU) study was launched in May 2014 using the first MSU in the United States to compare stroke management using an MSU versus standard management (SM). Herein, we describe the results of the prespecified, nonrandomized run-in phase designed to obtain preliminary data on study logistics.

Methods—

The run-in phase consisted of 8 MSU weeks when all-patient care occurred on the MSU and 2 SM weeks when the MSU nurse met personnel on scene or at the emergency department to ensure comparability with MSU patients. Telemedicine was independently performed in 9 MSU cases.

Results—

Of 130 alerts, 24 MSU and 2 SM patients were enrolled. Twelve of 24 MSU patients received tPA on board; 4 were treated within 60 minutes of last seen normal, and 4 went on to endovascular treatment. There were no hemorrhagic complications. Four had primary intracerebral hemorrhage. Agreement on tPA eligibility between the onsite and telemedicine physician was 90%.

Conclusions—

The run-in phase provided a tPA treatment rate of 1.5 patients per week, assured us that treatment within 60 minutes of onset is possible, and enabled enrollment of patients on SM weeks. We also recognized the opportunity to assess the effect of the MSU on endovascular treatment and intracerebral hemorrhage. Challenges include the need to control biased patient selection on MSU versus SM weeks and establish inter-rater agreement for tPA treatment using telemedicine.
Companion Animals in Thailand
Authors: Toukhsati Samia R. , Phillips Clive J.C. , Podberscek Anthony L. , Coleman Grahame J.
Published: October 2015

The prevalence of companion animal caregiving was estimated, and demographic and psychosocial factors that predict sterilization behaviors in caregivers in Thailand were identified. Thai nationals (n = 494) were recruited by random for the Culture and Human-Animal Interactions (chai) telephone survey. The results showed 74% of respondents had a cat and/or a dog (60% dogs, 23% cats); 22% of dogs and 19% of cats were sterilized. Logistic Regression analyses revealed positive attitudes toward desexing, and the perception that important others would endorse this practice best predicted sterilization practices. For caregivers with unsterilized companions, Hierarchical Multiple Regression analyses revealed perceived capability to sterilize, positive attitudes toward desexing, and perceived normative pressure to sterilize accounted for 35% and 45% of the variance in intentions to sterilize dogs and cats, respectively. Culturally sensitive initiatives targeting negative attitudes, enhancing normative pressure, and increasing perceived personal agency to sterilize may improve sterilization rates in Thailand.
The “Kafala” System and Human Rights: Time for a Decision
Authors: Malaeb Hanan N.
Published: October 2015

During the last few decades, the Gulf Cooperation Council (gcc) States have shown exceptional developments in various fields. These accomplishments have been dependent on gcc citizens and residents, some of whom are facing unfair treatment from their sponsors based on accusations by the international community. This article will provide an overview of such accusations by the international community against the Kafala or sponsorship system, the sponsors’ defences, and new trends in the gcc States toward eliminating this system. It will also propose some legal initiatives and appropriate policies to be implemented for the benefit of the sponsored persons and the gcc States’ international reputation.
Transforming the Spiritual Storehouse
Authors: Sorenson Jacob
Published: October 2015

The Christian camp experience has tremendous potential for faith formation and spiritual transformation. The confirmation camp program in Finland offers important lessons to the international community about camp’s role in perpetuating current church models and its potential to transform the church. This article builds on the rich quantitative findings of confirmation camp in Finland, offering new qualitative data from a foreign perspective seeking to understand, appreciate, and characterise the Finnish camp experience in order to benefit the church in Finland and Christian camping throughout the world.
A new species of Isospora Schneider, 1881 (Apicomplexa: Eimeiriidae) from the grey-hooded attila Attila rufus Vieillot, 1819 (Passeriformes: Tyrannidae) on the Marambaia island, Brazil
Authors: RODRIGUES MARIANA BORGES , DA SILVA LIDIANE MARIA , LOPES BRUNO DO BOMFIM , BERTO BRUNO PEREIRA , LUZ HERMES RIBEIRO , FERREIRA ILDEMAR , LOPES CARLOS WILSON GOMES
Published: October 2015

The New World tyrant-flycatcher (Tyrannidae) Attila rufus (Vieillot, 1819) is commonly known as grey-hooded attila or 'capitão-de-saíra' in Brazil (Sick 1997; CBRO 2014). This species has a wide distribution and their population trends appear to be stable; therefore, it is least concern according to IUCN (2015) criteria.
Two new high-altitude subspecies of Tapinopterus (Tapinopterus) cognatus (Dejean, 1831) (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Pterostichinae) from Serbia
Authors: ĆURČIĆ SREĆKO , ILIĆ NASTAS , VESOVIĆ NIKOLA , ANTIĆ DRAGAN
Published: October 2015

The genus Tapinopterus Schaum, 1858 currently comprises around 60 species belonging to eight subgenera, inhabiting mostly the Balkan Peninsula and Asia Minor (Schatzmayr 1942, 1943; Bousquet 2003; Ćurčić et al. 2008; Arndt et al. 2011; Lohaj et al. 2012). The taxa live in limited geographic areas and are mostly montane (Trautner & Geigenmüller 1987; Guéorguiev & Guéorguiev 1998). The territory of Serbia is inhabited by two species of Tapinopterus, T. (T.) cognatus (Dejean, 1831) (recorded in Bulgaria and Romania as well) and T. (T.) miridita (Apfelbeck, 1904) (recorded in Albania and the Republic of Macedonia as well), as well as by the three subspecies, T. (T.) cognatus cognatus (Dejean, 1831) (known from Mt. Suva Planina in Serbia and from Bulgaria), T. (T.) cognatus winkleri Mandl, 1936 (known from the Svrljiške Planine Mts. and Mt. Stara Planina in both Serbia and Bulgaria), and T. (T.) miridita miridita (Apfelbeck, 1904) (known from Mt. Šar Planina in both Serbia and the Republic of Macedonia), respectively (Mandl 1936; Schatzmayr 1942, 1943; Guéorguiev & Guéorguiev 1995; Drovenik & Peks 1999; Bousquet 2003; Ćurčić et al. 2007; Guéorguiev & Giachino 2008). In our opinion, T. (T.) cognatus cognatus does not live in Bulgaria (as was previously reported) (Bousquet 2003), while the older Schatzmayr’s (1943) record “Klisura” should refer to the Iron Gate Gorge in SW Romania and NE Serbia, not to any Bulgarian place. The other mentioned locality, i.e., Mt. Suva Planina in Serbia, is situated far from the type locality (Iron Gate). Since nearly all Tapinopterus taxa are regional or local endemics, this southernmost record in SE Serbia for T. cognatus cognatus seems unlikely. In view of the high diversity of Tapinopterus on the Balkan Peninsula, it is expected that new taxa exist in border areas of the distribution in Serbia. During the last years, the first (SĆ), second (NI) and fourth author (DA) of the paper investigated a number of epigean montane habitats in SE and C Serbia in order to confirm such an assumption, by collecting a series of ground beetles at high altitude sites. After careful examination of the samples, we identified two Tapinopterus subspecies new to science.
Keys to genera of the spider wasps (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) of Russia and neighbouring countries, with check-list of genera
Authors: LOKTIONOV VALERY M. , LELEJ ARKADY S.
Published: October 2015

Keys to 55 genera of spider wasps of Russia and neighbouring countries in females and males are given. Of them 34 genera are distributed in Russia. An annotated list of genera with type species and distribution data within Russia and biogeographical regions is given. The genus Xenaporus Ashmead, 1902 and X. eremocanus Wolf, 1990 are newly recorded from Russia. According to ICZN 1995 (Opinion 1820) new synonymy (valid name first) is proposed for the type species of genus Cryptocheilus Panzer, 1806: Sphex annulata Fabricius, 1798 (=Pompilus alternatus Lepeletier de Saint Fargeau, 1845, syn. nov.; =Pompilus comparatus Smith, 1855, syn. nov.; =Priocnemis culpabilis Costa, 1893, syn. nov.; Salius annulatilis Richards, 1935, syn. nov.).
Revalidation of genus Chrysellampus Semenov, 1932, with description of two new species from China (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae)
Authors: ROSA PAOLO , WEI NA-SEN , XU ZAI-FU
Published: October 2015

The genus Chrysellampus Semenov, 1932 is revalidated. Chinese species are revised and keyed for the first time. Five species are recorded, two of them are new for science: Chrysellampus obtusidentibus Rosa, Wei & Xu, sp. nov. (Yunnan), and C. proximocellis Rosa, Wei & Xu, sp. nov. (Gansu and Yunnan). New synonymy for Chrysellampus Semenov, 1932 (=Parellampus Semenov, 1932, syn. nov.) and new combination for C. praeteritorum (Semenov, 1932), comb. nov. are proposed.
Two new species of Timea from the Southwest Atlantic (Timeidae, Demospongiae, Porifera)
Authors: LEITE DORA M. B. , FONSECA CÁSSIO A. , LEAL CAMILLE V. , HAJDU EDUARDO
Published: October 2015

Comprising 56 species, Timea Gray, 1867 belongs to the monotypic family Timeidae Gray, 1867, with both family and genus characterized by the presence of (sub)tylostyles as megascleres, and euasters as microscleres. Two new species are described from the coast of Rio de Janeiro state, Timea berlincki sp. nov. and Timea clandestina sp. nov., the first of which also from São Paulo state (southeastern Brazil). Both are compared to other species based on their morphological and skeletal characters. Records of all species of the genus worldwide are tabulated and discussed, and an identification key for Tropical western Atlantic species of Timea is offered.
Dam In, Cocoa Out; Pipes In, Oil Out: China’s Engagement in Ghana’s Energy Sector
Authors: Odoom Isaac
Published: October 2015

Ghana, like other African countries, suffers a huge infrastructure gap. In recent times China has become a major bilateral source of investment in Ghana’s energy infrastructure. This article examines the strategic importance of Chinese infrastructure investment in Ghana’s energy sector in recent times. The study is based on field research conducted by the author in Ghana and on the analysis of semi-structured interviews with Ghanaian policy makers, journalists, civil society organizations, academics and individuals. Additional data were collected on some key projects China has been sponsoring in the energy sector. The paper suggests that China has become a key partner in Ghana’s development efforts as its provision of infrastructural projects soars and its involvement in Ghana’s economy grows. Yet China’s engagement presents a complex dynamic given its dual role as financier of energy infrastructure and at the same time a competitor or seeker of Ghana’s oil and other natural resources.
Naga pastoral? The post-pastoral possibilities in Temsula Ao’s hill-poems
Authors: Chakraborty Sayantan
Published: October 2015

In this article I attempt to show the Ao-Nagas’ experience of living in the hills under pre-industrial and industrial systems as represented in the poems of Temsula Ao, an award-winning poet from Nagaland, India. Ao represents the pre-industrial cultural landscape as peaceful, simple, and harmonious and uses the devices of idealization, nostalgia, and return and retreat, and represents the industrial cultural landscape as discordant and as constituting a struggle for survival. I argue that the powerful critical tool of post-pastoral reveals the dynamic ecopoetics in Ao’s poems.
Characterization of mechanical properties of randomly oriented strand thermoplastic composites
Authors: Selezneva Marina , Lessard Larry
Published: October 2015

There is an emerging interest in the aerospace industry to manufacture components with intricate geometries using discontinuous fibre carbon/polyether–ether–ketone moulding systems (obtained by cutting unidirectional tape into strands). This type of material system is termed randomly oriented strand composites and is appealing for structural applications as it bridges the gap between the lack of formability of continuous fibre composites and the lack of performance of short fibre composites. The objective of this study was to investigate mechanical properties (tensile, compressive, shear and fatigue) of randomly oriented strand composites and to quantify the effect of strand size on their properties. Overall, properties were found to be highly variable and dependent on the strand length. Interestingly, tensile, compressive and shear strength had similar magnitudes and exhibited the same failure mechanisms (strand fracture and debonding). This experimental work expands the knowledge base for randomly oriented strand composite materials.
Readers in Adult Basic Education
Authors: Barnes Adrienne E. , Kim Young-Suk , Tighe Elizabeth L. , Vorstius Christian
Published: October 2015

The present study explored the reading skills of a sample of 48 adults enrolled in a basic education program in northern Florida, United States. Previous research has reported on reading component skills for students in adult education settings, but little is known about eye movement patterns or their relation to reading skills for this population. In this study, reading component skills including decoding, language comprehension, and reading fluency are reported, as are eye movement variables for connected-text oral reading. Eye movement comparisons between individuals with higher and lower oral reading fluency revealed within- and between-subject effects for word frequency and word length as well as group and word frequency interactions. Bivariate correlations indicated strong relations between component skills of reading, eye movement measures, and both the Test of Adult Basic Education ( Reading subtest) and the Woodcock-Johnson III Diagnostic Reading Battery Passage Comprehension assessments. Regression analyses revealed the utility of decoding, language comprehension, and lexical activation time for predicting achievement on both the Woodcock Johnson III Passage Comprehension and the Test of Adult Basic Education Reading Comprehension.
Mutuality in the provision of Scottish healthcare
Authors: Howieson Brian
Published: October 2015

The backdrop to this article is provided by the Better Health, Better Care Action Plan (Scottish Government, 2007), Section 1 of which is entitled ‘Towards a Mutual NHS’. According to Better Health, Better Care (Scottish Government, 2007: 5): ‘ Mutual organisations are designed to serve their members. They are designed to gather people around a common sense of purpose. They are designed to bring the organisation together in what people often call “ co-production.”’ The aim of this article is to précis the current knowledge of mutuality in the provision of Scottish healthcare. In detail, it will: introduce the ‘mutual’ organisation; offer a historical perspective of mutuality; suggest why healthcare mutuality is important; and briefly, detail the differences in mutual health-care policy in England and Scotland. It is hoped that this analysis will help researchers and practitioners alike appreciate further the philosophy of mutuality in the provision of Scottish healthcare.
Acute arsenic poisoning diagnosed late
Authors: Shumy Farzana , Anam Ahmad Mursel , Kamruzzaman AKM , Amin Md Robed , Chowdhury MA Jalil
Published: October 2015

Acute arsenicosis, although having a ‘historical’ background, is not common in our times. This report describes a case of acute arsenic poisoning, missed initially due to its gastroenteritis-like presentation, but suspected and confirmed much later, when the patient sought medical help for delayed complications after about 2 months.
Study Drugs “Don’t Make You Smarter”
Authors: Kolar Kat
Published: October 2015

Despite the growing literature on nonmedical prescription drug use among students in North America, existing research does not investigate the potential convergences of nonusing student attitudes on drug acceptability with those of their stimulant-using peers. Analysis of 36 interviews with nonmedical stimulant prescription drug-using and nonusing undergraduate students in Canada provides insight into evaluations of drug acceptability within a competitive, top-tier research university context. Interviews are analyzed thematically with attention to practices students engage in to assess nonmedical stimulant use, and discourses students use to position the acceptability of such use. Interview results illustrate commonalities in how using and non-using students weigh the risks and advantages of nonmedical prescription stimulant use in relation to the pursuit of scholastic success. These findings are used to critically engage with the construct of drug acceptability, as conceptualized in the drug normalization framework of Howard Parker and colleagues. To conclude, recommendations are made for future research, and implications for university policies are considered.
Adaptive non-singular terminal sliding mode controller: new design for full control of the quadrotor with external disturbances
Authors: Modirrousta Alireza , Khodabandeh Mahdi
Published: October 2015

This paper proposes two different adaptive robust sliding mode controllers for attitude, altitude and position control of a quadrotor. Firstly, it proposes a backstepping non-singular terminal sliding mode control with an adaptive algorithm that is applied to the quadrotor for free chattering, finite time convergence and robust aims. In this control scheme instead of regular control input, the derivative of the control input is achieved from a non-singular terminal second-layer sliding surface. An adaptive tuning method is utilized to deal with the external disturbances whose upper bounds are not required to be known in advance in the inner loop. Secondly, a nonlinear disturbance observer based on the integral sliding mode with adaptive gains is proposed for position control, which is known as the outer loop. Stability and robustness of the proposed controller are proved by using the classical Lyapunov criterion. The simulation results demonstrate the validation of the proposed control scheme.
An iterative algorithm for the best approximate (P, Q)-orthogonal symmetric and skew-symmetric solution pair of coupled matrix equations
Authors: Beik Fatemeh Panjeh Ali , Salkuyeh Davod Khojasteh
Published: October 2015

This paper deals with developing a robust iterative algorithm to find the least-squares ( P, Q)-orthogonal symmetric and skew-symmetric solution sets of the generalized coupled matrix equations. To this end, first, some properties of these type of matrices are established. Furthermore, an approach is offered to determine the optimal approximate ( P, Q)-orthogonal (skew-)symmetric solution pair corresponding to a given arbitrary matrix pair. Some numerical experiments are reported to confirm the validity of the theoretical results and to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
A composite guidance law with enhanced anti-disturbance capability for Mars pinpoint landing
Authors: Zhang Yabin , Wang Yan , Yao Junen , Guo Lei
Published: October 2015

The landing safety and accuracy of a Mars lander will be seriously degraded due to multiple unknown disturbances or perturbations in the powered descent phase. A novel composite guidance algorithm is proposed to improve the landing performance in this paper. The presented guidance algorithm, with a composite hierarchical framework, is developed by the combination of disturbance observer-based control and multiple sliding surfaces guidance theory. The major disturbance owing to the Mars wind could be estimated through a disturbance observer and incorporated in the feed-forward compensation in the inner loop, other disturbances or perturbations could be attenuated by the multiple sliding surfaces technique in the outer loop. The composite guidance algorithm could be utilized without a pre-computed reference trajectory and it has enhanced anti-disturbance capability compared with the multiple sliding surfaces guidance law. Its global stability is verified using a Lyapunov-based approach. Monte Carlo simulation results show that the composite guidance law has a better performance on guiding a Mars lander from the point of engine ignition to the desired landing point in the presence of disturbances and perturbations.
Intelligent control for Hammerstein nonlinear systems with arbitrary deadzone input
Authors: Zhang Bi , Mao Zhizhong , Zhang Tingfeng
Published: October 2015

In this paper, a new intelligent control scheme based on multiple models and neural networks is proposed to adaptively control a class of Hammerstein nonlinear systems with arbitrary deadzone input. This approach consists of a linear robust adaptive controller, multiple neural networks-based nonlinear adaptive controllers and a switching mechanism. Since the control input is derived from a modified certainty equivalent principle, the manner in which the closed-loop stability is established forms the main contribution. To show the usefulness of the developed results, three simulation examples, including a direct current motor subject to a nonlinear friction, are studied.
The Journal of Management’s First 40 Years
Authors: Van Fleet David D. , Bedeian Arthur G.
Published: October 2015

Reflecting on the Journal of Management’s journey from a regional publication to an international outlet for management research, this editorial commentary (a) documents the year-to-year increase in number of citations to articles published in the journal as it has become a leading venue for management scholarship originating worldwide, (b) acknowledges the most frequently published authors in the journal over the past 40 years, and (c) recognizes the journal’s 50 most highly cited articles and their authors.
An Assessment of Resource-Based Theorizing on Firm Growth and Suggestions for the Future
Authors: Nason Robert S. , Wiklund Johan
Published: October 2015

Together, Penrosean and Barnean resource-based logic make up the dominant theoretical approach to understanding firm growth. While extant literature focuses on a common lineage between Penrosean theory and the resource-based view (RBV), we explicate divergence at these origins of resource-based theorizing and subject the growth implications of each to meta-analytic testing. RBV’s central tenets concern resources that meet valuable, rare, inimitable, and nonsubstitutable (VRIN) criteria, while Penrose’s theory discusses the versatility of resources. Theoretically, VRIN resources allow firms to exploit unique opportunities, while versatile resources allow firms to recombine resources in novel ways to create growth. Using meta-analytic techniques, we find that versatile resources are associated with higher levels of growth, whereas VRIN resources are not. We offer novel insights into alternative characteristics of resources derived from the same conceptualization of the firm, add greater specificity to the performance construct, and open up avenues for new theorizing on firm growth that is more closely aligned with Penrose’s theory.
Drawing Lines: A Response to Adrian Parr’s ‘Urban Debt, Neoliberalism and the Politics of the Commons’
Authors: Simone AbdouMaliq
Published: October 2015

Urbanization is the mechanism for the entanglement of things and experiences as commodities, an interminable restlessness of disorientation, a suspended state, where the capacity to maintain a hold on things and attain a sense of emplacement increasingly necessitates enforced resilience, of people embracing rather than warding off their imminent expendability. As such, what are the possibilities for the city to become a space of communing as an intersection of complex ecologies, common sensibilities and new forms of provision and care? This response to Adrian Parr’s reflections on these issues in her article, ‘Urban Debt, Neoliberalism and the Politics of the Commons’, draws upon various African American practices for inhabiting the city as a vehicle of strategic indifference to efforts to render collective life expendable. This indifference has long been deployed to insulate experimental practices of care, economic and social collaboration, and to ‘honour the city differently’.
Quantitative analysis of dynamic inconsistencies in infrastructure planning: an example of coastal levee improvement
Authors: Kono Tatsuhito , Kitamura Naoki , Yamasaki Kiyoshi , Iwakami Kazuki
Published: October 2015

Cost–benefit analysis is considered as an effective means for the government to avoid failures in public projects. However, once cost–benefit analysis becomes mandatory and residents expect a public project to be established based upon it, there is a potential for a dynamic inconsistency problem to arise, where dynamic inconsistency is defined as a difference in the optimal policy before and after a certain time. Taking as an example the coastal levee improvement policy in the city of Rikuzentakata in Japan, the present study clarifies the mechanism behind the dynamic inconsistency problem that is attributable to mandatory cost–benefit analysis and also discusses quantitatively the influence of the dynamic inconsistency problem on social welfare. In addition, through examining the quantitative result, we indicate that, in the projects where the improvement cost increases gradually with the scale, the inefficiency of the dynamic inconsistency problem is incurred on a larger scale.