bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anemia in the Elderly in Northeastern Thailand: A Community-Based Study Investigating Prevalence, Contributing Factors, and Hematologic Features
Authors: Deeruksa Lalitpatch , Sanchaisuriya Kanokwan
Published: August 2017

This community-based study investigated anemia prevalence and certain hematologic features and their possible relationships to thalassemia and iron deficiency (ID) in a population of older people in Northeastern Thailand. Participants included 319 apparently healthy individuals ranging in age from 60 to 98 years, whose current health status was assessed by means of personal interviews. Blood samples were also collected to determine the following parameters: red blood cell indices, serum ferritin, C-reactive protein, hemoglobin profiles, and the α0-thalassemia gene. Based upon established WHO criteria, the overall prevalence of anemia was found to be 47.7%, increasing from 39% within the age group of 60-70 years to 68% in those >80 years. Factors considered to be significant contributors to anemia were classified as ID (3.6%), thalassemia (56.2%), and “unknown” (40.1%). Overall, only 2.4% of participants exhibited any ID. Hematologic changes appear to correlate with age. Our findings provide not only baseline information, potentially useful for implementing appropriate control measures, but also an enhanced awareness and understanding of the factors contributing to anemia among the elderly in the region.
Cancer Genomic Resources and Present Needs in the Latin American Region
Authors: Torres Ángela , Oliver Javier , Frecha Cecilia , Montealegre Ana Lorena , Quezada-Urbán Rosalía , Díaz-Velásquez Clara Estela , Vaca-Paniagua Felipe , Perdomo Sandra
Published: August 2017

In Latin America (LA), cancer is the second leading cause of death, and little is known about the capacities and needs for the development of research in the field of cancer genomics. In order to evaluate the current capacity for and development of cancer genomics in LA, we collected the available information on genomics, including the number of next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, the number of cancer research institutions and research groups, publications in the last 10 years, educational programs, and related national cancer control policies. Currently, there are 221 NGS platforms and 118 research groups in LA developing cancer genomics projects. A total of 272 articles in the field of cancer genetics/genomics were published by authors affiliated to Latin American institutions. Educational programs in genomics are scarce, almost exclusive of graduate programs, and only few are concerning cancer. Only 14 countries have national cancer control plans, but all of them consider secondary prevention strategies for early diagnosis, opportune treatment, and decreasing mortality, where genomic analyses could be implemented. Despite recent advances in introducing knowledge about cancer genomics and its application to LA, the region lacks development of integrated genomic research projects, improved use of NGS platforms, implementation of associated educational programs, and health policies that could have an impact on cancer care.
Heat Shock Protein 27, a Novel Regulator of Transforming Growth Factor β Induced Resistance to Cisplatin in A549 Cell
Authors: Huang Zhicheng , Yang Changliang , Sun Shuangyan , Nan Yingji , Lang Zhiguo , Wang Xiu , Zhao Jihong , Liu Ying
Published: August 2017

Lung cancer is one of the major causes of cancer morbidity and mortality around the world, and the resistance to cisplatin is a critical issue to chemotherapy in lung cancer patients. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signal pathway abnormality is widely observed in drug resistance during lung cancer chemotherapy. Here, we investigated the effects of heat-shock protein 27 (HSP27) in the TGF-β-induced cisplatin resistance in lung cancer cell. In this study, our results indicated that the mRNA and protein expression of HSP27 were significantly increased in human lung cancer tissues. TGF-β induced the mRNA and protein expression of HSP27 in human lung cancer cell (A549). Treatment of TGF-β-induced cisplatin resistance in A549 cell through blocking the cisplatin-induced apoptosis and cell death, which characterized as the increasing of cell viability and decreasing of PARP and caspase3 cleavage in the cisplatin-treated cell. Knockdown of SMAD3 attenuated the TGF-β-induced HSP27 expression and restored the TGF-β-induced cisplatin resistance in A549 cell. Additionally, the knockdown of HSP27 blocked TGF-β-induced cisplatin resistance via decreasing cell viability and increasing cell apoptosis in A549 cell. These data therefore suggested that HSP27 is critical to lung cancer progression and TGF-β-induced cisplatin resistance in human lung cancer cell, and may provide an effective clinical strategy in lung cancer patients with resistance to chemotherapy.
Strategies to Improve Stroke Care Services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pandian Jeyaraj Durai , William Akanksha G. , Kate Mahesh P. , Norrving Bo , Mensah George A. , Davis Stephen , Roth Gregory A. , Thrift Amanda G. , Kengne Andre P. , Kissela Brett M. , Yu Chuanhua , Kim Daniel , Rojas-Rueda David , Tirschwell David L. , Abd-Allah Foad , Gankpé Fortuné , deVeber Gabrielle , Hankey Graeme J. , Jonas Jost B. , Sheth Kevin N. , Dokova Klara , Mehndiratta Man Mohan , Geleijnse Johanna M. , Giroud Maurice , Bejot Yannick , Sacco Ralph , Sahathevan Ramesh , Hamadeh Randah R. , Gillum Richard , Westerman Ronny , Akinyemi Rufus Olusola , Barker-Collo Suzanne , Truelsen Thomas , Caso Valeria , Rajagopalan Vasanthan , Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy , Vlassovi Vasiliy V. , Feigin Valery L.
Published: August 2017

Background: The burden of stroke in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is large and increasing, challenging the already stretched health-care services. Aims and Objectives: To determine the quality of existing stroke-care services in LMICs and to highlight indigenous, inexpensive, evidence-based implementable strategies being used in stroke-care. Methods: A detailed literature search was undertaken using PubMed and Google scholar from January 1966 to October 2015 using a range of search terms. Of 921 publications, 373 papers were shortlisted and 31 articles on existing stroke-services were included. Results: We identified efficient models of ambulance transport and pre-notification. Stroke Units (SU) are available in some countries, but are relatively sparse and mostly provided by the private sector. Very few patients were thrombolysed; this could be increased with telemedicine and governmental subsidies. Adherence to secondary preventive drugs is affected by limited availability and affordability, emphasizing the importance of primary prevention. Training of paramedics, care-givers and nurses in post-stroke care is feasible. Conclusion: In this systematic review, we found several reports on evidence-based implementable stroke services in LMICs. Some strategies are economic, feasible and reproducible but remain untested. Data on their outcomes and sustainability is limited. Further research on implementation of locally and regionally adapted stroke-services and cost-effective secondary prevention programs should be a priority.
Design of a Self-Management Program for Children Aged 6-12 Years with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus at the Community Hospital Herdecke, Germany
Authors: Berger Bettina , Sethe Dominik , Hilgard Dörte , Martin David , Heusser Peter
Published: August 2017

Background: Children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) must replace lacking endogenous insulin by daily insulin injections or insulin pumps. Standards of treatment include educational programs enabling self-management. The program ‘Herdecker Kids with Diabetes' (HeKiDi) is based on an anthroposophic understanding of the human being and intends to provide an individualized, patient-oriented approach to developing diabetes-related and comprehensive human competencies. Aim: Analysis of the HeKiDi program for children (6-12 years) with T1DM as the first part of an evaluation of a complex intervention. Methods: Ethnographic approach, following the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ), including field observations and interviews with responsible persons, content analysis of materials for determining the structure and the curriculum, presented according to the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR). Results: The curriculum follows the standard but adds a learning circle between the child and the therapeutic team comprising 3 stages: (1) perception of the abilities and needs of the individual child supported by adult mentors themselves suffering from T1DM, (2) reflection within the therapeutic team, and (3) daily feedback to the child. Curricular Learning Objectives: Children feel recognized and supported in their individual developmental and diabetes-related competencies and develop motoric, artistic, communicative, and social skills to strengthen their self-efficacy and to understand T1DM as a lifelong awareness process. Conclusions: The curriculum including its associated learning goals and methods was presented. The program was explained and shown to be reproducible. Whether this program truly leads to better outcomes in regard to self-efficacy and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c, glycated hemoglobin) and how parents and children perceive this will have to be assessed using a comparative interventional study.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Susceptibility-Weighted Imaging Lesion and Contrast Enhancement May Represent Infectious Intracranial Aneurysm in Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Cho Sung-Min , Rice Cory , Marquardt Robert J. , Zhang Lucy Q. , Khoury Jean , Thatikunta Prateek , Buletko Andrew B. , Hardman Julian , Uchino Ken , Wisco Dolora ,   on behalf of Infective Endocarditis Strokes and Imaging Characteristics (IESIC) group
Published: August 2017

Background: Infectious intracranial aneurysm (IIA) can complicate infective endocarditis (IE). We aimed to describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of IIA. Methods: We reviewed IIAs among 116 consecutive patients with active IE by conducting a neurological evaluation at a single tertiary referral center from January 2015 to July 2016. MRIs and digital cerebral angiograms (DSA) were reviewed to identify MRI characteristics of IIAs. MRI susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) was performed to collect data on cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) and sulcal SWI lesions. Results: Out of 116 persons, 74 (63.8%) underwent DSA. IIAs were identified in 13 (17.6% of DSA, 11.2% of entire cohort) and 10 patients with aneurysms underwent MRI with SWI sequence. Nine (90%) out of 10 persons with IIAs had CMB >5 mm or sulcal lesions in SWI (9 in sulci, 6 in parenchyma, and 5 in both). Five out of 8 persons who underwent MRI brain with contrast had enhancement within the SWI lesions. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, both sulcal SWI lesions (p < 0.001, OR 69, 95% CI 7.8-610) and contrast enhancement (p = 0.007, OR 16.5, 95% CI 2.3-121) were found to be significant predictors of the presence of IIAs. Conclusions: In the individuals with IE who underwent DSA and MRI, we found that neuroimaging characteristics, such as sulcal SWI lesion with or without contrast enhancement, are associated with the presence of IIA
Acute Intravenous Infusion of Immunoglobulins Protects Against Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Through Inhibition of Caspase-3
Authors: Al-Herz Waleed , Babiker Fawzi
Published: August 2017

Background/Aims: To investigate the cardioprotective effects of intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) in rats subjected to regional myocardial ischemia reperfusion (I/R). Methods: Langendorff-perfused rat hearts were used in this study. Hearts subjected to regional ischemia served as a negative untreated control. The effects of IVIG pre- and post-ischemic treatment on left ventricular function, coronary vascular dynamics and contractility were assessed. IVIG were administered in either a low or high dose. The infarct size was determined using triphenyltetrazolium chloride and through biochemical assays using the measured creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase levels. Apoptosis was evaluated by the TUNEL assay, and the caspase-3 expression level was assessed by immunoblotting. The cytokine levels were measured by ELISA. Results: Low and high doses of immunoglobulins administered 2 hours before sacrifice, before the ischemic insult or at reperfusion resulted in a significant improvement in cardiac hemodynamics, coronary vascular dynamics and heart contractility. A significant decrease in the infarct size and cardiac enzymes was also evident compared to those in the control. IVIG administered as an infusion at reperfusion or pre-treatment resulted in a marked decrease in myocyte apoptosis, which was associated with decreased levels of caspase-3 expression in the supernatants of homogenized left ventricles. Infusion of IVIG both pre-ischemia and at reperfusion did not show the same protective effects. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a novel protection to the heart by low and high doses of IVIG given either pre- or post-ischemia.
Nitrosative Stress in the Rat Retina at the Onset of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes
Authors: Hernández-Ramírez Ernesto , Sánchez-Chávez Gustavo , Estrella-Salazar Luis A. , Salceda Rocío
Published: August 2017

Background/Aims. Nitric oxide is a multifunctional molecule that can modify proteins via nitrosylation; it can also initiate signaling cascades through the activation of soluble guanylate cyclase. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness, but its pathogenesis is unknown. Multiple mechanisms including oxidative-nitrosative stress have been implicated. Our main goal was to find significant changes in nitric oxide (NO) levels and determine their association with nitrosative stress in the rat retina at the onset of diabetes. Methods: Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin. The possible nitric oxide effects on the rat retina were evaluated by the presence of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate diaphorase (NADPH-d), a specific marker for NO-producing neurons, detected by histochemistry performed on whole retinas and retina sections. Immunohistochemistry was also performed on retina sections for iNOS, 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Retinal nitric oxide levels were assessed by measuring total nitrate/nitrite concentrations. Retinal cGMP levels were determined by radioimmunoassay. Western blots for nitrotyrosine (3-NT) and oxidized proteins were performed. Results: In the present study, we found increased activity of NADPH-diaphorase and iNOS immunoreactivity in the rat retina at the onset of diabetes; this increase correlated with a remarkable increase in NO levels as early as 7 days after the onset of diabetes. However, cGMP levels were not modified by diabetes, suggesting that NO did not activate its signaling cascade. Even so, Western blots revealed a progressive increase in nitrated proteins at 7 days after diabetes induction. Likewise, positive nitrotyrosine immunolabeling was observed in the photoreceptor layer, ganglion cell layer, inner nuclear layer and some Müller cell processes in the retinas of diabetic rats. In addition, levels of oxidized proteins were increased in the retina early after diabetes induction; these levels were reduced by the administration of L-NAME. In addition, stress in Müller cells was determined by immunoreactivity to the glial fibrillary acidic protein. Conclusions: Our findings indicated the occurrence of nitrosative stress at the onset of diabetes in the rat retina and emphasized the role of NO in retinal function and the pathogenesis of retinopathy.
Renal Denervation Suppresses Coronary Hyperconstricting Responses After Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation in Pigs In Vivo Through the Kidney–Brain–Heart Axis
Authors: Uzuka Hironori , Matsumoto Yasuharu , Nishimiya Kensuke , Ohyama Kazuma , Suzuki Hideaki , Amamizu Hirokazu , Morosawa Susumu , Hirano Michinori , Shindo Tomohiko , Kikuchi Yoku , Hao Kiyotaka , Shiroto Takashi , Ito Kenta , Takahashi Jun , Fukuda Koji , Miyata Satoshi , Funaki Yoshihito , Ishibashi-Ueda Hatsue , Yasuda Satoshi , Shimokawa Hiroaki
Published: August 2017

Objective—

Drug-eluting stent–induced coronary hyperconstricting responses remain an important issue. The adventitia harbors a variety of components that potently modulate vascular tone, including sympathetic nerve fibers (SNF) and vasa vasorum. Catheter-based renal denervation (RDN) inhibits sympathetic nerve activity. We, thus, examined whether RDN suppresses drug-eluting stent–induced coronary hyperconstricting responses, and if so, what mechanisms are involved.

Approach and Results—

Protocol 1: pigs implanted with everolimus-eluting stents into the left coronary arteries underwent coronary angiography at 1 month after implantation for assessment of coronary vasomotion and adventitial SNF formation. Drug-eluting stent–induced coronary hyperconstricting responses were significantly enhanced associated with enhanced coronary adventitial SNF and vasa vasorum formation. Protocol 2: pigs implanted with everolimus-eluting stents were randomly assigned to the RDN or sham group. The RDN group underwent renal ablation. At 1 month, RDN significantly caused marked damage of the SNF at the renal arteries without any stenosis, thrombus, or dissections. Notably, RDN significantly upregulated the expression of α
2
-adrenergic receptor–binding sites in the nucleus tractus solitarius, attenuated muscle sympathetic nerve activity, and decreased systolic blood pressure and plasma renin activity. In addition, RDN attenuated coronary hyperconstricting responses to intracoronary serotonin at the proximal and distal stent edges associated with decreases in SNF and vasa vasorum formation, inflammatory cell infiltration, and Rho-kinase expression/activation. Furthermore, there were significant positive correlations between SNF and vasa vasorum and between SNF and coronary vasoconstricting responses.

Conclusions—

These results provide the first evidence that RDN ameliorates drug-eluting stent–induced coronary hyperconstricting responses in pigs in vivo through the kidney–brain–heart axis.
Behavioural stress response and melanin-based plumage colouration in barn swallow nestlings
Authors: Corti Margherita , Bazzi Gaia , Costanzo Alessandra , Podofillini Stefano , Saino Nicola , Rubolini Diego , Romano Andrea
Published: August 2017

Consistent and correlated inter-individual differences in behaviours, the so-called ‘personalities’, have been identified in many vertebrates. The ability to respond to stressful events is part of personalities and can have important fitness consequences, as it determines how individuals cope with environmental challenges. As a consequence of pleiotropic effects of genes involved in several functions, inter-individual differences in behavioural responses can be associated with phenotypic traits, like melanin-based plumage colouration in birds. We examined the association between three proxies of the behavioural stress response and breast plumage colouration in barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) nestlings. We found that nestling behavioural responses were consistent within individuals and similar among siblings, thus suggesting that these behaviours may contribute to define individual ‘personalities’. However, nestling behavioural stress response was not significantly predicted by variation in breast plumage colouration, indicating that in juveniles of this species melanin-based colouration does not convey to conspecifics reliable information on individual ability to cope with stressful events.
‘Unlawful Influence’ and the al-Nashiri Military Commission at Guantánamo Bay
Authors: Kahn Jeffrey
Published: August 2017

This short essay is based on remarks made on 21 September 2016 at the Asia Pacific Military Justice Workshop held at the National University of Singapore Faculty of Law. The author discusses his perceptions as a designated observer for the National Institute of Military Justice at the military commissions held at the u.s. Naval Station at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba. He was sent to monitor oral argument of one of the most significant pre-trial motions in the commission trying Abd al-Rahim Hussein Muhammed al-Nashiri, the alleged mastermind of the
uss
Cole bombing. Al-Nashiri alleged unlawful influence by the civilian Convening Authority of the commission and moved to dismiss his prosecution with prejudice. The author examines the origins, argument, and resolution of this motion in the larger context of the commissions themselves, concluding that Guantánamo exemplifies the danger that u.s. State Department Legal Advisor William Taft perceived in “the temptations to cut corners.”
The United Nations as a Party to Armed Conflict
Authors: Lilly Damian
Published: August 2017

As the role of United Nations peacekeeping operations has evolved in recent decades so too has the legal interpretation of the way in which international humanitarian law (ihl) is viewed as applying to its peacekeepers. While it has been understood that the un could become a party to armed conflict, the organization has never publicly acknowledged this until the establishment of the Intervention Brigade of the of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (monusco) pursuant to Security Council resolution 2098 of March 2013. This article addresses the legal consequences of the Intervention Brigade as a party to armed conflict and the insights it provides into the legal status of un peacekeeper under ihl. In particular, it will argue that the established legal framework for un peacekeeping operations as having the protected status of civilians under ihl has proved ill-suited for the Intervention Brigade and its experience has highlighted the inconsistencies and gaps in the rules that have been developed.
Tulasnella tubericola (Tulasnellaceae, Cantharellales, Basidiomycota): a new Rhizoctonia-like fungus associated with mycorrhizal evergreen oak plants artificially inoculated with black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) in Spain
Authors: SOLÍS KARINA , BARRIUSO JUAN JOSÉ , GARCÉS-CLAVER ANA , GONZÁLEZ VICENTE
Published: August 2017

A new Rhizoctonia-like fungus associated with ectomycorrhizal tips of evergreen oak inoculated with Tuber melanosporum is described. Tulasnella tubericola sp. nov. is characterized by its particular habitat, apparently not associated with the roots of any orchid species, its fast-growing rate in plate culture, the creamy-white to pale orange tones of the colonies, the production of both typical globose monilioid cells together with terminal, finger-like monilioid projections and the absence of true sclerotia. In addition, phylogenetic analyses based on the sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) showed that the different isolates that define the new species constitute an isolated, monophyletic lineage within the genus. The fungus is exclusively isolated from mycorrhizal roots of Quercus ilex subsp. ballota, being absent both in the culture substrate or in the natural soil employed in the mycorrhization processes. No sexual fruiting bodies have been observed or induced in the laboratory for this fungus.
Akamboja gen. nov., a new genus of railroad-worm beetle endemic to the Atlantic Rainforest, with five new species (Coleoptera: Phengodidae, Mastinocerinae)
Authors: ROZA ANDRÉ SILVA , QUINTINO HINGRID YARA SOUZA , MERMUDES JOSÉ RICARDO MIRAS , SILVEIRA LUIZ FELIPE LIMA DA
Published: August 2017

The Atlantic Rainforest is a hotspot of biodiversity, housing several endemic species. Environmental stasis through broad time scales, vast latitudinal extension and landscape heterogeneity are thought to contribute in explaining the greater species richness of this biome. Unfortunately, it is threatened mainly due to anthropic-driven habitat loss. Ectotherms of low-mobility, such as tropical, small soft-bodied railroad-worms, may be especially threatened by anthropogenic climate changes. Many of such species have narrow climatic niches and therefore might become extinct before we know them. Here we describe a new genus endemic of the Atlantic Rainforest mountain ranges, and five spatially disjunct new species. Akamboja gen. nov. is unique by its ten-segmented antenna, IV to VIII with two short symmetrical branches, branches of antennomere IX fused in a singular flabellum, slightly depressed medially; elytron short, surpassing the second to fourth abdominal segment (depending on species); first tarsomere of anterior leg with a ventral comb; claws with six long and asymmetrical teeth; aedeagus with patch of bristles at paramere apex. We provide a key to species as well as illustrations for the diagnostic features. We highlight that Akamboja cleidae sp. nov., as defined here, has a disjunct distribution and its populations are surrounded by an unsuitable environmental matrix, thus are probably reproductively isolated. Future phylogenetic studies should address the evolutionary history and delimitation of this taxon. We also provide a key to genera of Mastinocerinae with ten antennomeres, including Akamboja gen. nov.
Ortalis remota: a forgotten and critically endangered species of chachalaca (Galliformes: Cracidae) from Eastern Brazil
Authors: SILVEIRA LUÍS FÁBIO , TOMOTANI BARBARA MIZUMO , CESTARI CÉSAR , STRAUBE FERNANDO C. , PIACENTINI VITOR DE Q.
Published: August 2017

The habits and general behaviour of the chachalacas (Ortalis spp.) in the Neotropics are well known. However, the validity and even the diagnoses of some taxa are poorly studied, and this may jeopardize the conservation of some populations. Within Ortalis guttata two subspecies are currently accepted, the nominate O. g. guttata (Spix) and O. g. subaffinis Todd. A third taxa, O. g. remota Pinto, 1960, was described based on a single specimen from SE Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. Despite appreciable differences between O. g. remota and other members of Ortalis, this taxon was considered as a synonym of O. squamata, a species restricted to the lowlands of Atlantic Forest, east of Serra do Mar. Here we performed coloration and geographical distribution analysis of O. g. remota with additional examination of the holotype and a thorough comparison of skins and photos with other members of Ortalis (O. squamata, O. araucuan, and O. guttata) intending to disentangle the above taxonomic puzzle. Our results showed that a newly recognized population of O. g. remota differs consistently from all other Ortalis taxa currently treated as distinct species in plumage characters and geographic distribution. Therefore, we defend that it should be considered a valid species, Ortalis remota Pinto, 1960. Ortalis remota has a very restricted range on the upper Paraná River and it is threatened by deforestation and construction of dams.
Description and phylogenetic classification of Stackelberginia cerberus sp. nov. (Diptera: Asilidae), comprising the first record of this genus from the Nearctic
Authors: MCKNIGHT TRISTAN A. , CANNINGS ROBERT A.
Published: August 2017

Stackelberginia cerberus sp. nov. (Diptera: Asilidae) is described from the Amargosa desert (USA: Nevada) and compared to related taxa. This is the first record of the genus in the Western Hemisphere; other species live in the deserts of central Asia. Stackelberginia Lehr is proposed as the sister taxon to Lasiopogon Loew in the subfamily Stichopogoninae based on morphological characters and a Bayesian species tree estimated from one mitochondrial (COI) and three nuclear protein-coding loci (AATS, PEPCK, wingless). Stackelberginia has the medially divided epandrium and rotated hypopygium of Lasiopogon, but the facial gibbosity is flat, macrosetae of thorax, head, and legs are unusually long, and phenology peaks in late autumn.
Descriptions of larvae of Vestalaria venusta (Hämäläinen, 2004) and Matrona basilaris Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Calopterygidae)
Authors: WANG RUNXI , YU XIN , XUE JUNLI , NING XIN
Published: August 2017

Larva of Vestalaria venusta is identified using DNA barcoding match with the adult and described in the first time. Morphological characters are compared with those of Matrona basilaris and Vestalis amoena. The validity of genus the Vestalaria is reconfirmed. The important role of DNA barcoding in odonate larva identification is emphasized.
CloudSat and CALIPSO within the A-Train: Ten Years of Actively Observing the Earth System
Authors: Stephens Graeme , Winker David , Pelon Jacques , Trepte Charles , Vane Deborah , Yuhas Cheryl , L’Ecuyer Tristan , Lebsock Matthew
Published: August 2017

One of the most successful demonstrations of an integrated approach to observe Earth from multiple perspectives is the A-Train satellite constellation. The science enabled by this constellation flourished with the introduction of the two active sensors carried by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) CloudSat and the NASA–Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES) Cloud–Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) satellites that were launched together on 28 April 2006. These two missions have provided a 10-yr demonstration of coordinated formation flying that made it possible to develop integrated products and that offered new insights into key atmospheric processes. The progress achieved over this decade of observations, summarized in this paper, clearly demonstrate the fundamental importance of the vertical structure of clouds and aerosol for understanding the influences of the larger-scale atmospheric circulation on aerosol, the hydrological cycle, the cloud-scale physics, and the formation of the major storm systems of Earth. The research also underscored inherent ambiguities in radiance data in describing cloud properties and how these active systems have greatly enhanced passive observation. It is now clear that monitoring the vertical structure of clouds and aerosol is essential, and a climate data record is now being constructed. These pioneering efforts are to be continued with the Earth Clouds, Aerosol and Radiation Explorer (EarthCARE) mission planned for launch in 2019.
The Structural Origins of Unearned Status: How Arbitrary Changes in Categories Affect Status Position and Market Impact
Authors: Bowers Anne , Prato Matteo
Published: August 2017

Focusing on the categorical nature of many status orderings, we examine the relationship among status, actors’ quality, and market outcomes. As markets evolve, the number of categories that structure them can increase, creating opportunities for new actors to be bestowed status, or it can decrease, dethroning certain actors from their superior standing. In both cases, gains and losses of status may occur without changes in actors’ quality. Because audiences rely on status signals to infer the value of market actors, these exogenously generated status shifts can translate into changes in how audiences perceive actors, resulting in benefits for unearned status gains and costs for unearned status losses. We find support for our hypotheses in a sample of equity analysts at U.S. brokerage firms. Using data on the coveted Institutional Investor magazine All-Star award, we find that analysts whose status increases because of a category addition see corresponding increases in the stock market’s response to their earnings estimates, while those who lose status see corresponding reductions. Our results suggest that the greater weight accorded to high-status actors may be misguided if that status occurs for structural reasons such as category changes rather than because of an actor’s own quality.
Global supply chains, institutional constraints and firm level adaptations: A comparative study of Chinese service outsourcing firms
Authors: Zhu Jingqi , Morgan Glenn
Published: August 2017

The focus on inter-firm governance relations within global supply chains analysis has left social relations at workplaces as a ‘black box’ and relatively underdiscussed. Through an in-depth, comparative study of two Chinese IT service providers for Japanese clients, this article explores how the work and employment relations in the supplier firm are shaped by the institutional contexts of both the supplier firm and the lead firm as well as by the nature of the global supply chain in which they are located. The article shows how the intersection of global supply chains and local institutional environments creates potential gaps between what is required by the lead firms and what is feasible within the supplier firms. Therefore, managers in the supplier firm have to negotiate ways of managing these expectations in the light of their own institutional constraints and possibilities. We identify three forms of adaptation made by the suppliers that we describe as wholesale adaptation, ceremonial adaptation and minimal adaptation to lead firms’ expectations. We argue that these interactions and forms of adaptation can be extended and explored more generally in global supply chains and provide the basis for a fruitful integration of institutional approaches with global supply chain analysis.
Bayesian Duval Triangle Method for Fault Prediction and Assessment of Oil Immersed Transformers
Authors: Lakehal Abdelaziz , Tachi Fouad
Published: August 2017

Dissolved gas analysis of transformer insulating oil is considered the best indicator of a transformer’s overall condition and is most widely used. In this study, a Bayesian network was developed to predict failures of electrical transformers. The Duval triangle method was used to develop the Bayesian model. The proposed prediction model represents a transformer fault prediction, possible faulty behaviors produced by this transformer (symptoms), along with results of possible dissolved gas analysis. The model essentially captures how possible faults of a transformer can manifest themselves by symptoms (gas proportions). Using our model, it is possible to produce a list of the most likely faults and a list of the most informative gas analysis. Also, the proposed approach helps to eliminate the uncertainty that could exist, regarding the fault nature due to gases trapped in the transformer, or faults that result in more simultaneous gas percentages. The model accurately provides transformer fault diagnosis and prediction ability by calculating the probability of released gases. Furthermore, it predicts failures based on their relationships in the Bayesian network. Finally, we show how the approach works for five distinct electrical transformers of a power plant, by describing the advantages of having available a Bayesian network model based on the Duval triangle method for the fault prediction tasks.
The Assessment of Cutting Force with Taguchi Design in Medium Carbon Steel–Applied Spheroidization Heat Treatment
Authors: Baday Şehmus , Başak Hüdayim , Sönmez Fikret
Published: August 2017

In this study, the analysis of cutting forces on medium carbon AISI 1050—to which different spheroidization heat treatments were applied—was conducted by the mixed-level Taguchi orthogonal experiment design method. In the experiments, besides the parameters of feed rate, depth of cut and cutting speed having effect on cutting forces as a factor in orthogonal design, the spheroidization time and temperature parameters were also used. By the performed orthogonal experiment design method, the values of cutting forces were estimated using the five-factor, two- and three-leveled Taguchi L36 (22 × 33) mixed orthogonal experiment design method. The effectiveness of the machining parameters on the cutting force was revealed by performing analysis of variance test. Moreover, the effectiveness rates of the parameters were also determined in the study as per the signal noise rates. Consequently, it has been observed that the feed rate is more effective on the cutting forces compared to other parameters.
Reshaping the social work education system toward cultural competency: The Hong Kong case
Authors: Arat Gizem , Kerelian Narine Nora
Published: August 2017

Hong Kong is a self-branded international city in Asia. Culturally competent service delivery for ethnic minorities is a nascent arena in the social work profession within the territory. This article attempts to depict the ways in which ethnic groups are situated within local social work practice, reviews the Hong Kong context of a culturally responsive social work profession, and proposes a framework for a more inclusive social work curriculum. In this framework on culturally competent social work education, the authors argue that social harmony and social justice are not mutually exclusive, calling for a (re)conceptualization of social harmony inclusive of social justice.
Hukou system effects on migrant children’s education in China: Learning from past disparities
Authors: Zhou Shu , Cheung Monit
Published: August 2017

Without an urban hukou, or registered residency status, migrant workers in China have experienced an urban–rural cultural divide. Rural workers who migrate to urban areas are socially excluded from the urban mainstream because of hukou national policy and region-specific regulations. In 2014, hukou policy was revised to gradually allow migrant children to receive public education in cities; however, migrants are still challenged by social exclusion and discrimination. This study discusses hukou policy that integrates migrant children into the mainstream educational system and analyzes the social welfare benefits of its policy reforms. It recommends policy to address China’s ‘returned children’ phenomenon.
Differences in Severity and Emotions for Public and Private Face-to-Face and Cyber Victimization Across Six Countries
Authors: Wright Michelle F. , Yanagida Takuya , Aoyama Ikuko , Ševčíková Anna , Macháčková Hana , Dědková Lenka , Li Zheng , Kamble Shanmukh V. , Bayraktar Fatih , Soudi Shruti , Lei Li , Shu Chang
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of medium (face-to-face, cyber) and publicity (public, private) in perceptions of severity and emotional responses to victimization among adolescents from China, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, India, Japan, and the United States, while controlling for gender, individualism, and collectivism. There were 3,432 adolescents (age range = 11-15 years, 49% girls) included in this study. They read four hypothetical victimization scenarios, which were manipulated based on the medium and publicity, including public face-to-face victimization, private face-to-face victimization, public cyber victimization, and private cyber victimization. After reading the scenarios, adolescents rated the severity of each scenario and their feelings of anger, sadness, and embarrassment following victimization. Overall, higher severity related to each of the emotional responses. Furthermore, greater perceptions of severity increased adolescents’ feelings of anger, sadness, and embarrassment more often for public victimization and face-to-face victimization than for private victimization and cyber victimization. Some variations were found in these associations based on country of origin. The findings from this study indicate that perceived severity and emotional responses are different in various victimization contexts. Therefore, it is important to consider various victimization contexts.
The Role of Normative Beliefs About Aggression in the Relationship Between Empathy and Cyberbullying
Authors: Ang Rebecca P. , Li Xiang , Seah Suzanne L.
Published: August 2017

The present study examined the relationship between empathy (affective and cognitive) and cyberbullying in a sample of 396 (male = 173, female = 219, and four did not report information on gender) school-going adolescents from Singapore (age ranging from 12 to 18 years). Both types of empathy were negatively associated with cyberbullying as expected, with affective empathy having a stronger association with cyberbullying. We also investigated the mediating and moderating role of normative beliefs about aggression in two pathways—the relationship between affective empathy and cyberbullying and the relationship between cognitive empathy and cyberbullying. Findings suggested that normative beliefs about aggression was a partial mediator and moderator in the affective empathy-beliefs-cyberbullying pathway but normative beliefs about aggression was neither a mediator nor moderator in the cognitive empathy-beliefs-cyberbullying pathway. Normative beliefs about aggression served as the mechanism partially accounting for the relationship between affective empathy and cyberbullying. Furthermore, the relation between affective empathy and cyberbullying was found to be stronger for those with higher levels of normative beliefs of aggression. Collectively, together with other studies, this research contributes to an increasing number of studies demonstrating a stronger association between low empathy (in particular, low affective empathy) and bullying, whether traditional bullying or cyberbullying in adolescents.
Bullying at University: The Social and Legal Contexts of Cyberbullying Among University Students
Authors: Myers Carrie-Anne , Cowie Helen
Published: August 2017

Students within the university sector are “digital natives.” Technology is not “new” or “alien” to them, but rather it is an accepted and normalized part of everyday life. With this level of expertise and competence, we could assume that university students are relatively happy with their online relationships. However, in recent years, there has been a growing realization that, for some students at least, the online world is a very dangerous place. The age of the students is of key importance here too, as those in higher and further education are young adults, rather than children in need of parental support. From this perspective, the university as an institution has a duty of care to its students in their learning environment regardless of their age. In this article, we consider the social and cultural contexts that either promote or discourage cyberbullying among university students. Finally, the implications for policies, training, and awareness raising are discussed along with ideas for possible future research in this under researched area.
Natural Disaster Risk and Collectivism
Authors: Oishi Shigehiro , Komiya Asuka
Published: August 2017

Previous research found that low levels of national wealth and high levels of historical pathogen prevalence are associated with collectivism. The main idea is that harsh economic and physical environments present a psychological threat, which evokes collectivism or the priority of protecting in-group members. To the extent that natural disasters pose a major threat, we hypothesized that natural disaster risk is also associated with collectivism. Consistent with our hypothesis, nations with higher levels of natural disaster risk were more collectivistic than those with lower risk using both Hofstede’s individualism–collectivism scores and Taras, Steel, and Kirkman’s meta-analytic individualism–collectivism scores from 1970 to 2010, and Taras et al.’s meta-analytic individualism–collectivism scores from the 2000s. This association remained significant when controlling for other climatic factors such as historical pathogen prevalence, climatic harshness, and distance from the equator, respectively, when Hofstede’s individualism–collectivism scores and Taras et al.’s scores from 1970 to 2010 were used. The association became marginal when Taras et al.’s scores from the 2000s were used. A multiple regression analysis showed that natural disaster risk was not a predictor of collectivism, above and beyond gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, pathogen prevalence, climatic harshness, and distance from the equator simultaneously. Finally, we found the interaction between GDP per capita and natural disaster such that the link between natural disaster risk and collectivism was present among wealthy but not among poorer nations.
Factor Analysis of EDI-3 Eating Disorder Risk Subscales Among African American Women
Authors: Rothstein Lauren A. , Sbrocco Tracy , Carter Michele M.
Published: August 2017

This study examined the factor structure of the eating disorder subscales of the Eating Disorder Inventory–3 among African American and European American women. Confirmatory factor analyses of the three-factor model proposed by Garner were conducted separately for each group. Confirmatory factor analyses results indicated the three-factor model was an adequate fit for the European American sample, but only a mediocre fit in the African American sample. A follow-up exploratory factor analyses using the African American data produced a pattern matrix consisting of four factors (drive for thinness, bulimia, body dissatisfaction, and body satisfaction). These results indicated that while drive for thinness and bulimia appeared to capture the intended constructs in the African American sample, the third factor was divided into body dissatisfaction and body satisfaction.
Self-determination theory and motivation for music
Authors: MacIntyre Peter D. , Schnare Ben , Ross Jessica
Published: August 2017

Learning the skills to be a musician requires an enormous amount of effort and dedication, a long-term process that requires sustained motivation. Motivation for music is complex, blending relatively intrinsic and extrinsic motives. The purpose of this study is to investigate the motivation of musicians by considering how different aspects of motivational features interact. An international sample of 188 musicians was obtained through the use of an online survey. Four scales drawn from Self-Determination Theory (intrinsic, identified, introjected, and extrinsic regulation) were utilized along with other motivational constructs, including motivational intensity, desire to learn, willingness to play, perceived competence, and musical self-esteem. To integrate the variables into a proposed model, a path analysis was conducted among the motivation variables. Results showed that the intrinsic motives are playing the major role in the maintenance of the motivational system, while extrinsic motives are less influential. Support was found for a feedback loop, whereby desire to learn feeds into increased effort at learning (i.e., motivational intensity), leading to the development of perceived competence, which is then reflected back into increasing desire to learn. Increases in these variables help to create a virtuous cycle of motivation for music learning and performance.
Evidence-based creativity: Working between art and science in the field of fine dining
Authors: Borkenhagen Chad
Published: August 2017

This article examines how scientific knowledge drives creativity in the small but influential culinary movement of ‘modernist cuisine’. Originating in the mid-1990s, modernist cuisine began with a small group of avant-garde chefs using science to produce wildly innovative culinary creations. Since then, many of the movement’s innovations, as well as its more general ‘science-based’ approach to cooking, have gained adoption among a diverse range of culinary professionals. But while science has enabled modernist chefs to produce a wide array of innovations and refinements, the group’s embrace of scientific values poses a potential threat to the subjective, intuition-driven logic of culinary creativity. Using data gathered through interviews and participant observation, I describe how modernist chefs navigate the potential challenges of using science in a creative field. I find that advocates of modernist cuisine address these challenges by adopting two separate rhetorical repertoires – one emphasizing science-based cooking’s advantages over traditional methods, and another that minimizes the differences between these approaches. Observing the strategic deployment of these repertoires illustrates the challenges to incorporating science into creative fields and reveals a complex and nuanced relationship between objectivity, evidence, and aesthetic judgement.