bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lim Domain Binding 2
Authors: Shang Ming-Mei , Talukdar Husain A. , Hofmann Jennifer J. , Niaudet Colin , Asl Hassan Foroughi , Jain Rajeev K. , Rossignoli Aranzazu , Cedergren Cecilia , Silveira Angela , Gigante Bruna , Leander Karin , de Faire Ulf , Hamsten Anders , Ruusalepp Arno , Melander Olle , Ivert Torbjörn , Michoel Tom , Schadt Eric E. , Betsholtz Christer , Skogsberg Josefin , Björkegren Johan L.M.
Published: June 2014

Objective—

Using a multi-tissue, genome-wide gene expression approach, we recently identified a gene module linked to the extent of human atherosclerosis. This atherosclerosis module was enriched with inherited risk for coronary and carotid artery disease (CAD) and overlapped with genes in the transendothelial migration of leukocyte (TEML) pathway. Among the atherosclerosis module genes, the transcription cofactor Lim domain binding 2 (LDB2) was the most connected in a CAD vascular wall regulatory gene network. Here, we used human genomics and atherosclerosis-prone mice to evaluate the possible role of LDB2 in TEML and atherosclerosis.

Approach and Results—

mRNA profiles generated from blood macrophages in patients with CAD were used to infer transcription factor regulatory gene networks;
Ldlr

–/–

Apob
100/100
mice were used to study the effects of
Ldb2
deficiency on TEML activity and atherogenesis.
LDB2
was the most connected gene in a transcription factor regulatory network inferred from TEML and atherosclerosis module genes in CAD macrophages. In
Ldlr

–/–

Apob
100/100
mice, loss of
Ldb2
increased atherosclerotic lesion size ≈2-fold and decreased plaque stability. The exacerbated atherosclerosis was caused by increased TEML activity, as demonstrated in air-pouch and retinal vasculature models in vivo, by ex vivo perfusion of primary leukocytes, and by leukocyte migration in vitro. In THP1 cells, migration was increased by overexpression and decreased by small interfering RNA inhibition of
LDB2
. A functional
LDB2
variant (rs10939673) was associated with the risk and extent of CAD across several cohorts.

Conclusions—

As a key driver of the TEML pathway in CAD macrophages, LDB2 is a novel candidate to target CAD by inhibiting the overall activity of TEML.
Proinflammatory Phenotype of Perivascular Adipocytes
Authors: Omar Abdullah , Chatterjee Tapan K. , Tang Yaoliang , Hui David Y. , Weintraub Neal L.
Published: June 2014

Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) directly abuts the lamina adventitia of conduit arteries and actively communicates with the vessel wall to regulate vascular function and inflammation. Mounting evidence suggests that the biological activities of PVAT are governed by perivascular adipocytes, a unique class of adipocyte with distinct molecular and phenotypic characteristics. Perivascular adipocytes surrounding human coronary arteries (pericoronary perivascular adipocytes) exhibit a reduced state of adipogenic differentiation and a heightened proinflammatory state, secreting ≤50-fold higher levels of the proinflammatory cytokine monocyte chemoattractant peptide-1 compared with adipocytes from other regional depots. Thus, perivascular adipocytes may contribute to upregulated inflammation of PVAT observed in atherosclerotic human blood vessels. However, perivascular adipocytes also secrete anti-inflammatory molecules such as adiponectin, and elimination of PVAT in rodent models has been shown to augment vascular disease, suggesting that some amount of PVAT is required to maintain vascular homeostasis. Evidence in animal models and humans suggests that inflammation of PVAT may be modulated by environmental factors, such as high-fat diet and tobacco smoke, which are relevant to atherosclerosis. These findings suggest that the inflammatory phenotype of PVAT is diverse depending on species, anatomic location, and environmental factors and that these differences are fundamentally important in determining a pathogenic versus protective role of PVAT in vascular disease. Additional research into the mechanisms that regulate the inflammatory balance of perivascular adipocytes may yield new insight into, and treatment strategies for, cardiovascular disease.
A Common
LPA
Null Allele Associates With Lower Lipoprotein(a) Levels and Coronary Artery Disease Risk
Authors: Kyriakou Theodosios , Seedorf Udo , Goel Anuj , Hopewell Jemma C. , Clarke Robert , Watkins Hugh , Farrall Martin
Published: June 2014

Objective—

Increased levels of lipoprotein(a) are a highly heritable risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). The genetic determinants of lipoprotein(a) levels are mainly because of genetic variation in the apolipoprotein(a) gene (
LPA
). We have tested the association of a relatively common null allele of
LPA
with lipoprotein(a) levels and CAD risk in a large case–control cohort. We have also examined how null allele genotyping complements apolipoprotein(a) isoform typing to refine the relationship between
LPA
isoform size and circulating lipoprotein(a) levels.

Approach and Results—

The
LPA
null allele (rs41272114) was genotyped in the PROCARDIS (Precocious Coronary Artery Disease) case–control cohort (4073 CAD cases and 4225 controls). Lipoprotein(a) levels were measured in 909 CAD cases and 922 controls; apolipoprotein(a) isoform size was estimated using sodium dodecyl sulfate–agarose gel electrophoresis and a high-throughput quantitative polymerase chain reaction–based method. Null carriers are common (null allele frequency, 3%) and have significantly lower circulating lipoprotein(a) levels (
P
=2.1×10
−10
) and reduced CAD risk (odds ratio, 0.79 [0.66–0.97];
P
=0.023) compared with noncarriers. An additive allelic model of apolipoprotein(a) isoform size, refined by null allele genotype and quantitative polymerase chain reaction values, showed a sigmoid relationship with lipoprotein(a) levels, with baseline levels for longer isoform alleles and progressively higher levels of lipoprotein(a) for shorter isoform alleles.

Conclusions—

The
LPA
null allele (rs41272114) is associated with decreased circulating lipoprotein(a) levels and decreased CAD risk. Incorporating rs41272114 refined apolipoprotein(a) isoform size typing obtained by immunoblotting and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. A joint genomic and isoform analysis revealed details of the relationship between apolipoprotein(a) isoform size and circulating lipoprotein(a) level consistent with a threshold effect on lipoprotein secretion.
Stromal Cell–Derived Factor-1α/C-X-C Chemokine Receptor Type 4 Axis Promotes Endothelial Cell Barrier Integrity via Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase and Rac1 Activation
Authors: Kobayashi Koji , Sato Kanako , Kida Taiki , Omori Keisuke , Hori Masatoshi , Ozaki Hiroshi , Murata Takahisa
Published: June 2014

Objective—

Although stromal cell–derived factor (SDF)-1αis well known to modulate the mobilization of hematopoietic stem cells and endothelial progenitor cells, its effects on some pre-existing vascular functions remain unknown. We have investigated here the role of SDF-1αsignaling in endothelial barrier function.

Approach and Results—

Treatment with SDF-1α elevated transendothelial electrical resistance and inhibited the dextran hyperpermeability elicited by thrombin in bovine aortic endothelial cells, both indicating an increase in endothelial barrier function. SDF-1α binds to 2 receptors, C-X-C chemokine receptor types 4 and 7 (CXCR4 and CXCR7). Pretreatment with a CXCR4 antagonist or CXCR4 gene depletion by small interfering RNA (siRNA) eliminated SDF-1α–induced endothelial barrier enhancement. In contrast, CXCR7 antagonist or CXCR7 gene depletion by siRNA did not influence SDF-1α–induced barrier enhancement. Pretreatment with a Gi-protein inhibitor, a phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, or PI3K p110γsubunit gene depletion by siRNA also inhibited SDF-1α–induced barrier enhancement significantly. Western blot analysis revealed that SDF-1α phosphorylated Akt
Ser473
in endothelial cells, suggesting PI3K activation. Immunostaining showed that treatment with SDF-1αformed a cortical actin rim, which was accompanied by Rac1 activation. In vivo, SDF-1αinhibited croton oil–induced vascular leakage indexed by dye extravasation, which is attenuated by a pretreatment with a CXCR4 antagonist.

Conclusions—

We have identified SDF-1α as a novel suppressor of endothelial permeability. Specifically, SDF-1α stimulates the CXCR4/PI3K/Rac1 signaling pathway and the subsequent cytoskeletal rearrangement.
Phosphodiesterase Type 4 Blockade Prevents Platelet-Mediated Neutrophil Recruitment at the Site of Vascular Injury
Authors: Totani Licia , Piccoli Antonio , Dell’Elba Giuseppe , Concetta Amore , Di Santo Angelomaria , Martelli Nicola , Federico Lorenzo , Pamuklar Zehra , Smyth Susan S. , Evangelista Virgilio
Published: June 2014

Objective—

Platelet–neutrophil interactions play a key role in cardiovascular disease and inflammatory processes. Src family kinases mediate P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1–Mac-1 cross talk necessary for firm platelet–neutrophil adhesion. Because Src family kinase activity can be regulated by cAMP-dependent pathways, in this work, we evaluated the role of phosphodiesterases in the signaling events that are required to sustain platelet–neutrophil interactions and neutrophil recruitment at the site of vascular injury.

Approach and Results—

In neutrophils exposed to P-selectin, selective phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibition prevented Src family kinase–mediated phosphorylation of the proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 on Tyr579/Tyr580. The effects of PDE4 inhibition required protein kinase A, likely through protein kinase A–mediated activation of COOH-terminal Src kinase, a major negative regulator of Src family kinases. PDE4, but not other phosphodiesterase inhibitors, reduced platelet–neutrophil conjugates as well as neutrophil firm adhesion on spread platelets under flow conditions. The effect of PDE4 inhibition on neutrophil adhesion was primarily mediated by downregulation of P-selectin–induced activation of Mac-1. In a murine model of endovascular injury, selective inhibition of PDE4 significantly reduced neutrophil recruitment at the site of vascular damage.

Conclusions—

This study identifies PDE4 as a central node in the signaling network that mediates platelet–neutrophil adhesion and suggests that pharmacological inhibition of PDE4 may represent a novel therapeutic avenue for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Processed and Unprocessed Red Meat Consumption and Risk of Heart Failure
Authors: Kaluza Joanna , Åkesson Agneta , Wolk Alicja
Published: June 2014

Background—

Epidemiological studies of red meat consumption in relation to risk of heart failure (HF) are scarce. We examined the associations of unprocessed and processed red meat consumption with HF incidence and mortality in men.

Methods and Results—

The population-based prospective Cohort of Swedish Men included 37 035 men, aged 45 to 79 years, with no history of HF, ischemic heart disease, or cancer at baseline. Meat consumption was assessed with a self-administered questionnaire in 1997. During a mean follow-up of 11.8 years, 2891 incidences and 266 deaths from HF were ascertained. Consumption of processed meat was statistically significant positively associated with risk of HF in both age- and multivariable-adjusted models. Men who consumed ≥75 g/d processed meat compared with those who consumed <25 g/d had a 1.28 (95% confidence interval, 1.10–1.48,
P
trend=0.01) higher risk of HF incidence and 2.43 (95% confidence interval, 1.52–3.88,
P
trend<0.001) higher risk of HF mortality. The consumption of unprocessed meat was not associated with increased risk of incidence of HF or mortality from HF.

Conclusions—

Findings from this prospective study of men with low to moderate red meat consumption indicate that processed red meat consumption, but not unprocessed red meat, is associated with an increased risk of HF.
The Arctic Sunrise Incident: A Multi-faceted Law of the Sea Case with a Human Rights Dimension
Authors: Oude Elferink Alex G.
Published: June 2014

On 18 September 2013, the crew of the Greenpeace vessel Arctic Sunrise tried to access the Prirazlomnaya oil rig, which was operating within the Russian Federation’s exclusive economic zone in the Arctic. The following day the Russian authorities boarded and arrested the Arctic Sunrise and detained its crew and charged them with various offenses. The flag state of the vessel, the Netherlands, started an arbitral procedure against the Russian Federation. The present article looks at the issues of international law raised by the arrest of the Arctic Sunrise—which both concern the law of the sea and human rights law—and the arbitration initiated by the Netherlands. Human rights law is essential for assessing the kind of measures a coastal state may take in enforcing its legislation based on the law of the sea in its exclusive economic zone. Providing sufficient room for the freedom of expression may limit the scope of action that might otherwise exist.
Defining eez Claims from Islands: A Potential South China Sea Change
Authors: Beckman Robert C. , Schofield Clive H.
Published: June 2014

In the face of seemingly intractable territorial and maritime disputes in the South China Sea, the article examines how the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (losc), sets out what maritime claims States can make in the South China Sea and how it establishes a framework that will enable States to either negotiate maritime boundary agreements or negotiate joint development arrangements (jdas) in areas of overlapping maritime claims. It provides an avenue whereby the maritime claims of the claimants can be brought into line with international law, potentially allowing for meaningful discussions on cooperation and maritime joint development based on areas of overlapping maritime claims defined on the basis of the losc.
A new subspecies of Rosmarinus officinalis (Lamiaceae) from the eastern sector of the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: FERRER-GALLEGO P. PABLO , FERRER-GALLEGO Raúl , ROSELLÓ Roberto , PERIS JUAN B. , GUILLÉN ALBERTO , GÓMEZ José , LAGUNA Emilio
Published: June 2014

Rosmarinus officinalis subsp. valentinus (Lamiaceae) is described as a new subspecies in the flora of the Iberian Peninsula. The diagnostic characters for the subsp. valentinus include several morphological differences, mainly based on a distinctly prostrate habit, a reduced leaf size, smaller calyx and corolla, and white flower. A comparative table with diagnostic morphological features to distinguish among the three subspecies of the R. officinalis is provided. Habitat, ecology, greenhouse cultivation and phenolic profile are also considered.
Lecto- and epitypification of Stephania rotunda (Menispermaceae)
Authors: Hul Sovanmoly , Dary Chhavarath , Jacques Frédéric , Ollivier Evelyne , Bun Sok-Siya , Jabbour Florian
Published: June 2014

The plant genus Stephania Loureiro (1790: 608–609) (Menispermaceae) comprises about 60 species distributed in tropical and subtropical Asia, tropical Africa, and Oceania (Lo et al. 2008). Species of this genus are commonly used in folk medicine for the treatment of asthma, tuberculosis, dysentery, hyperglycemia, cancer, fever, and malaria (Semwal et al. 2010). Currently, active pharmacological research is being conducted on S. rotunda Loureiro (1790: 608), and particularly on its tubers. This species shows in addition to antioxidant and cytotoxic activities, a significant antiplasmodial activity (Bun et al. 2009, Baghdikian et al. 2013).
Typification and taxonomy of Gyrosigma tenuissimum (W. Sm.) J.W. Griffith & Henfr., comparison with Gyrosigma coelophilum N. Okamoto & Nagumo and description of two new taxa: Gyrosigma tenuissimum var. gundulae var. nov. and Gyrosigma baculum sp. nov. (Pleurosigmataceae, Bacillariophyta)
Authors: STERRENBURG FRITHJOF A. S. , DE HAAN MYRIAM , HERWIG WULF E. , HARGRAVES PAUL E.
Published: June 2014

Gyrosigma tenuissimum (W.Sm.) J.W.Griffith & Henfr. was examined in the original material and an emended description is presented. Its protologue contains an error of taxonomic significance: in the type material, the valve and raphe sternum do not show the considerable flexure described and illustrated in Smith (1853). A comparison with Gyrosigma coelophilum N. Okamoto & Nagumo revealed that the latter, although similar in several characters, differs sufficiently in others to warrant separate specific status. Descriptions of two new taxa are given: Gyrosigma tenuissimum var. gundulae var. nov. and Gyrosigma baculum sp. nov. Both show very fine longitudinal striae at or beyond the limit of ordinary light microscopy and are practically non-sigmoid
A distinctive addition to the tree flora of Papua New Guinea: Helicia woxvoldiana sp. nov. (Proteaceae), a large-flowered myrmecophyte from the upper Sepik
Authors: Takeuchi Wayne
Published: June 2014

Helicia woxvoldiana (Proteaceae) is described from the Sepik River basin in Papua New Guinea, from classical localities on the Kaiserin-Augusta-Fluss itinerary of 1912–13. The new species is a canopy myrmecophyte with the largest flowers in Papuasian Helicia.
The phallus in Tettigoniidae (Insecta: Orthoptera: Ensifera):
revision of morphology and terminology, and discussion on
its taxonomic importance and evolution
Authors: CHAMORRO-RENGIFO JULIANA , LOPES-ANDRADE CRISTIANO
Published: June 2014

The phallus in Tettigoniidae (katydids) is a structure informative relative to the systematics of the group. Despite this, it is often not considered in descriptions of taxa. The lack of adequate descriptions of phalli is not only a gap for systematic and morphological studies, but postpones works on the evolution of copula. Here we study the exoskeletal morphology of the phallus in katydids, its components, and revised the terminology for them. We carried out dissections for morphological comparisons, and complement the observational information with published data. We stained phalli of katydids with chlorazol black, to better contrast membranous versus sclerotized components. We demonstrate that phallic components vary at specific, generic and suprageneric levels, and that internal and external components vary in number, shape, size and position. Currently there is little comparative data to support hypotheses on the evolution of this structure, but possibly the possession of a titillator is an ancestral condition. We identify additional sclerotized components, the sclerites of the ventral fold of the dorsal lobe, which can modify the shape and function of the titillator, being also important for understanding the evolution of the phallus. Potential functional relationships based on hypothetical morphological correlations between the shape of titillator and cerci are proposed, categorized in three main groups: (i) phallus devoid of titillator and cerci simple, (ii) titillator with bifurcated or paired sclerites, and cerci adapted for grasping, and (iii) titillator with single process and/or sclerite and cerci simple, sometimes with a pointed tip. Two explanations for these hypothetical morphological correlations and morphological variation are proposed: first, species with similar structures at the postabdomen would share similar copulatory behaviour, and second, more than one selective pressure would have acted over the structures of the postabdomen.
Nomenclatural corrections to two Neotropical species of Staphylininae (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae)
Authors: MÁRQUEZ JUAN , ASIAIN JULIETA
Published: June 2014

Márquez & Asiain (2010) described three new species of the Philonthus furvus species group: P. navarretei and P. pollens from Mexico, and P. rufotibialis from Mexico and Guatemala. They also provided new state and locality records for P. hoegei, P. testaceipennis and P. yaqui, as well as a key for the identification of the species. In this work (Márquez & Asiain 2010) the depositories of the type material and material examined were indicated, except for the holotype of P. navarretei. Based on article 16 (names published after 1999) of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature 1999), which indicates that species names must be accompanied by the explicit fixation of a holotype (16.4.1), a statement of intent that this will be deposited in a collection and a statement indicating the name and location of that collection (16.4.2), the species name is considered as an "unavailable name". Navarrete-Heredia & Newton (2013) placed P. navarretei Márquez & Asiain, 2010 as a nomen nudum because the term "nomen nudum" is often used loosely for names that do not meet one or more of the conditions necessary for availability in the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature.
Starostinia, a new generic replacement name for Ironella Starostina & Krasnov, 1970 (Anthozoa: Scleractinia: Rhipidogyridae) non Cobb, 1920 (Nematoda: Ironidae)
Authors: DOWELD ALEXANDER B.
Published: June 2014

The fossil genus Ironella Starostina & Krasnov (type species I. giseldonensis by original designation) was established (in Krasnov & Starostina 1970: 79) for distinctive scleractinian corals from Northern Caucasus of Russia (Northern Ossetia). However, Ironella Cobb (1920: 277), a living nematode (Adenophorea: Enoplida: Ironidae), preceded the fossil coral name, which becomes a preoccupied later homonym. The nematod Ironella is well recognized in modern zoology (Nematoda—LSID urn:lsid:marinespecies.org:taxname:227324), and in this connection a new generic designation is necessary for the later homonymic fossil scleractinian genus.
Two new species of Tetralidia Marques-Costa & Cavichioli (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Neocoelidiinae) from Peru with a key to species of the genus
Authors: GONÇALVES CLAYTON CORRÊA , MARQUES-COSTA ANA PAULA
Published: June 2014

Two new species of Tetralidia Marques-Costa & Cavichioli, 2008: Tetralidia pachamama sp. nov. and Tetralidia viracocha sp. nov. are described and illustrated. T. pachamama sp. nov. can be distinguished from the other species of the genus by the simple aedeagus, without processes, spines or lamellae, while T. viracocha sp. nov. can be distinguished by the aedeagus with two pairs of lamellae at shaft and anal tube with basiventral processes strongly curved posteriorly. An identification key to males of the species is provided.
Partitioning Internal Variability and Model Uncertainty Components in a Multimember Multimodel Ensemble of Climate Projections
Authors: Hingray Benoit , Saïd Mériem
Published: June 2014

A simple and robust framework is proposed for the partitioning of the different components of internal variability and model uncertainty in an unbalanced multimember multimodel ensemble (MM2E) of climate projections obtained for a suite of statistical downscaling models (SDMs) and global climate models (GCMs). It is based on the quasi-ergodic assumption for transient climate simulations. Model uncertainty components are estimated from the noise-free signals of the different modeling chains using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) framework. The residuals from the noise-free signals are used to estimate the large- and small-scale internal variability components associated with each considered GCM–SDM configuration. This framework makes it possible to take into account all members available from any climate ensemble of opportunity. Uncertainty is quantified as a function of lead time for projections of changes in temperature and precipitation produced for a mesoscale alpine catchment. Internal variability accounts for more than 80% of total uncertainty in the first decades. This proportion decreases to less than 10% at the end of the century for temperature but remains greater than 50% for precipitation. Small-scale internal variability is negligible for temperature; however, it is similar to the large-scale component for precipitation, whatever the projection lead time. SDM uncertainty is always greater than GCM uncertainty for precipitation. It is also greater for temperature in the middle of the century. The response-to-uncertainty ratio is very high for temperature. For precipitation, it is always less than one, indicating that even the sign of change is uncertain.
Estimations of Hazardous Convective Weather in the United States Using Dynamical Downscaling
Authors: Gensini Vittorio A. , Mote Thomas L.
Published: June 2014

High-resolution (4 km; hourly) regional climate modeling is utilized to resolve March–May hazardous convective weather east of the U.S. Continental Divide for a historical climate period (1980–90). A hazardous convective weather model proxy is used to depict occurrences of tornadoes, damaging thunderstorm wind gusts, and large hail at hourly intervals during the period of record. Through dynamical downscaling, the regional climate model does an admirable job of replicating the seasonal spatial shifts of hazardous convective weather occurrence during the months examined. Additionally, the interannual variability and diurnal progression of observed severe weather reports closely mimic cycles produced by the regional model. While this methodology has been tested in previous research, this is the first study to use coarse-resolution global climate model data to force a high-resolution regional model with continuous seasonal integration in the United States for purposes of resolving severe convection. Overall, it is recommended that dynamical downscaling play an integral role in measuring climatological distributions of severe weather, both in historical and future climates.
The Seasonal Effects of ENSO on European Precipitation: Observational Analysis
Authors: Shaman Jeffrey
Published: June 2014

An analysis and characterization of seasonal changes in the atmospheric teleconnection between ENSO and western European precipitation, as well as atmospheric conditions over the North Atlantic and Europe, are presented. Significant ENSO-associated changes in precipitation are evident during the boreal spring and fall seasons, marginal during boreal summer, and absent during boreal winter. The spring and fall precipitation anomalies are accompanied by statistically significant ENSO-related changes in large-scale fields over the North Atlantic and Europe. These seasonal teleconnections appear to be mediated by changes in upper tropospheric conditions along the coast of Europe that project down to the lower troposphere and produce onshore or offshore moisture flux anomalies, depending on the season. Some ENSO-related changes in storm activity are also evident during fall and winter. Analyses during boreal winter reveal little effect of coincident ENSO conditions on either European precipitation or upper tropospheric conditions over Europe.
Antipsychotic polypharmacy in schizophrenia patients in China and its association with treatment satisfaction and quality of life: Findings of the third national survey on use of psychotropic medications in China
Authors: Li Qian , Xiang Yu-Tao , Su Yun-Ai , Shu Liang , Yu Xin , Chiu Helen FK , Correll Christoph U , Ungvari Gabor S , Lai Kelly YC , Ma Cui , Wang Gao-Hua , Bai Pei-Shen , Li Tao , Sun Li-Zhong , Shi Jian-Guo , Chen Xian-Sheng , Mei Qi-Yi , Li Ke-Qing , Si Tian-Mei
Published: June 2014

Objective:

This study examined the use, demographic and clinical correlates of antipsychotic polypharmacy (APP) and its associations with treatment satisfaction and quality of life (QOL) in schizophrenia patients in China.

Method:

A total of 4239 patients in 45 nationwide Chinese psychiatric hospitals/centers were interviewed in 2012 in the third cross-sectional study, with the first two having been conducted in 2002 and 2006. Patients’ socio-demographic and clinical characteristics, including psychopathology, side effects, satisfaction with treatment and QOL, were recorded using a standardized protocol and data collection procedure.

Results:

The proportion of APP prescriptions in 2012 was 34.2%, which was significantly higher than the frequency of APP in 2002 (26.1%) and 2006 (26.4%) ( p<0.001). Of patients on APP, 91.1% received two antipsychotics, 8.6% received three and 0.3% received four or more antipsychotics. Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that compared to those on antipsychotic monotherapy, patients on APP and their families had lower satisfaction with treatment, had higher QOL in the mental domain, younger age of onset, more side effects, higher doses of antipsychotics and were more likely to receive first-generation antipsychotics and less likely to receive benzodiazepines (total R2=0.31, p<0.001).

Conclusions:

APP was found in about one in three schizophrenia patients. The prevalence of APP seems to have been increasing since 2002. Considering the increased frequency of drug-induced side effects and the patients’ and their relatives’ dissatisfaction with antipsychotic treatment, further examination of the rationale and appropriateness of APP and its alternatives is warranted.
Team Members’ Interaction Anxiety and Team-Training Effectiveness
Authors: Naber Andrew M. , McDonald Jennifer N. , Asenuga Olabisi A. , Arthur Winfred
Published: June 2014

Objective:

In the present study, we examined the relationship between team members’ interaction anxiety and team-training effectiveness.

Background:

Training in the context of teams can be focused on either individual or team outcomes. Relatedly, the individual differences of team members can hinder or facilitate the effectiveness of training for both individuals and the team as a collective. Interaction anxiety is an understudied individual difference that has been shown to be negatively related to training effectiveness in individual contexts. However, its effects in team-training contexts are yet to be investigated.

Method:

A sample of 492 students in 123 four-person teams was trained to operate a complex, computer-based team task.

Results:

Interaction anxiety negatively related to team cohesion and team-training effectiveness. A cusp catastrophe model fit the data and showed that teams with more than one high-interaction-anxiety member were negatively affected.

Conclusion:

Interaction anxiety inhibits the social activities of team training, in turn reducing team-training effectiveness when there is more than one high-interaction-anxiety individual on the training team.

Application:

These results highlight the importance of examining interaction anxiety as a training team compositional variable that may inhibit behaviors and team processes necessary to capitalize on the positive social activities on which team training depends since the interaction anxiety composition of training teams may serve as an important boundary condition on the effectiveness team-training interventions.
Novel joints developed from partially un-moulded carbon-fibre-reinforced laminates
Authors: Chen Dingding , Arakawa Kazuo , Jiang Shiyi
Published: June 2014

Two novel joints made from partially un-moulded carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic plates were designed to increase the strength of joints between carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic parts. In the partially un-moulded plate, a portion of the fabric stack was moulded with resin while the rest of the fabric stack remained dry. The plate was made using a manufacturing process developed from vacuum-assisted resin-transfer moulding. A new double-lap joint sandwiched a normal carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic plate between the dry fabric layers of a partially un-moulded plate. The other laminated joint overlapped the dry fabric layers of two partially un-moulded plates. Both joints were moulded by resin transfer. Tensile testing indicated that the two novel joints were more than twice as strong as a classical double-lap joint and half as strong as a normal, joint-free carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic plate. Additionally, the joints may potentially be made much stronger by modifying their shapes. In particular, the laminated joint may be made as strong as a normal carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic plate because its strength is determined by the fibre–matrix interface rather than the bondline strength, which is a key factor in determining the strength of a normal carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic plate.
Economic Impediments to Women’s Success on Parole
Authors: Johnson Ida M.
Published: June 2014

The number of women under community supervision has increased in recent years. However, empirical research on women parolees’ experiences is quite limited. Women parolees are faced with daunting challenges that may impede their success on parole. Using face-to-face interviews with 60 women parolees in a Southern state, this qualitative study examined the perceived barriers to women’s success on parole. Women parolees identified economic variables as critical barriers to their parole adjustment.
Predicting segmental and overall ventilation of ensembles using an integrated bioheat and clothed cylinder ventilation models
Authors: Ismail Nagham , Ghaddar Nesreen , Ghali Kamel
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this work is to implement an integrated ventilation and heat transport model of a clothed human subject to external wind. Each segment of the human body is modeled as a vertical cylinder with an air annulus separating the ventilated clothing from the skin with open or closed end to the environment. The developed ventilation model takes into consideration natural convection induced by the temperature difference between the skin and the annulus air. The steady-state mass and energy balance equations of the annulus microclimate air and clothing were solved numerically. The model is integrated with a segmental bioheat model to determine the local skin temperature, which is used as boundary condition. The clothing ventilation model was validated by conducting experiments on an isothermally heated vertical clothed cylinder with an open lower end aperture and subject to a uniform cross wind. Good agreement was found between the model predictions and experimental measurements of temperature at different angular and vertical locations in the air layer. The combined clothed cylinder and segmental bioheat model was validated with published experimental data on ensemble total ventilation for different permeabilities and wind speeds. It was found that clothed segments opened from the bottom increased ventilation by 40% when compared to clothed segments opened from the top. An increase of wind speed by 1.0 m/s leads to an increase in ventilation rate of about 36%. Natural convection was also found to enhance the ventilation of highly permeable clothing at low wind speeds compared to less permeable clothing.
Evaluation model of color difference for dyed fabrics based on the Support Vector Machine
Authors: Zhang Jianxin , Yang Chong
Published: June 2014

In the color difference inspection system based on machine vision, two types of dyeing effects need to be evaluated quantitatively according to color measurement results: the color consistency – the color matching degree between the dyeing product and the target; and the color levelness – the color uniformity in different regions of the same dyeing product. The purpose of this paper is to develop the color consistency and levelness evaluation algorithms and a new evaluation model of dyed fabrics based on the Support Vector Machine (SVM). Firstly, the evaluation goals were quantitatively classified into five different levels according to ISO 105-A02:1993; secondly, six color difference-related features from two color spaces were defined as the evaluation indexes, among which several independent ones were chosen using the Principal Components Analysis method from the training data and test data to improve the speed of the evaluation while retaining the accuracy. Finally, the evaluation model was built by employing the SVM method and its parameters were optimized with the Genetic Algorithm. The SVM model was then used to evaluate the dyeing effects according to the measured color difference-related features. Experimental results show that compared with the traditional Naive Bayesian algorithm, the proposed evaluation algorithms and model in this paper can evaluate the color quality of dyed fabrics quickly and decisively, with prediction accuracy increasing by 9% and relative error reducing by 0.0985.
Producing and consuming urban planning exhibition halls in contemporary China
Authors: Fan Peilei
Published: June 2014

As if trying to seek order among the chaos, urban planning exhibition halls, a unique creation of China’s planning manifesto during the market reform period, have started to appear on the horizon in many cities since the 2000s. This paper examines the production of planning exhibition halls and evaluates their use. It analyses how local governments have used urban planning exhibition halls to perform a set of functions: to prepare the mass audience for its grand future vision, to legitimate government plans for (re)development, to present the edited local history, to promote/glorify the mega events/projects, to spread particular propaganda and to manipulate citizen participation. Further, it finds that while most visitors are satisfied with the information dissemination function, they are disappointed at limited public participation opportunities, poorly presented cultural heritage and inadequately preserved city memory regarding its past plans.
The Influence of Family-Friendly Policies on Turnover and Performance in South Korea
Authors: Bae Kwang Bin , Goodman Doug
Published: June 2014

This study investigates the relationship between family-friendly policies and organizational performance, voluntary turnover rate, and labor productivity, using the Korea Workplace Panel Survey data from 2005 to 2009. The sample of this study consists of 158 public organizations in South Korea. This study uses panel data analysis to estimate the family-friendly policy effect. The result of the analysis suggests that the number of family-friendly policies is positively associated with labor productivity in public organizations. However, the number of family-friendly policies does not reduce the turnover rate. In addition, unionization has shown to decrease turnover rate and is positively associated with labor productivity in public organizations. The proportion of female workers has a positive relationship with turnover rate in organizations.
Shielding Parenteral Nutrition Solutions From Light
Authors: Laborie Sophie , Denis Angélique , Dassieu Gilles , Bedu Antoine , Tourneux Pierre , Pinquier Didier , Kermorvant Elsa , Millet Véronique , Klosowski Serge , Patural Hugues , Clamadieu Catherine , Brunhes Anne , Walther Marie , Jaisson‐Hot Isabelle , Mandy Bruno , Claris Olivier
Published: June 2014

Introduction: Oxidant stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Light induces peroxide generation in parenteral nutrition (PN) solutions, creating an oxidant stress. Shielding PN from light decreases its peroxide content, which has nutrition and biochemical benefits in animals and humans. This study aims at determining whether full light protection of PN decreases the rate of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and/or death in very low‐birth‐weight infants. Methods: Multicenter randomized controlled trial of photoprotection, using amber bags and tubing initiated during compounding of PN and maintained throughout infusion in the light‐protected (LP) group. The control group (light exposed [LE]) received PN exposed to ambient light. Depending on centers, lipids were infused either separately or as all‐in‐one PN. Results: In total, 590 infants born <30 weeks gestational age were included. At randomization, LE and LP groups did not differ clinically except for maximal FiO2 before 12 hours. The rate of BPD/death was not different between groups at 28 days (77% LP vs 72% LE, P = .16) or at 36 weeks corrected age (30% LP vs 27% LE, P = .55). Multivariate analysis showed no significant effect of photoprotection on BPD and/or death. The rate of BPD/death was significantly lower (odds ratio, 0.54; 95% confidence interval, 0.32–0.93; P = .02) in infants receiving all‐in‐one PN vs those who received lipids separately. Conclusion: This study did not show significant beneficial effects of photoprotection. Since the decreased rate of BPD/death found with all‐in‐one PN relates to a center‐dependent variable, this warrants further investigation.
Revision of the Osteoporosis Knowledge Test
Authors: Gendler Phyllis Ellen , Coviak Cynthia Peltier , Martin Jean Thomas , Kim Katherine K. , Dankers Jennifer K. , Barclay Julieanne Marie , Sanchez Thomas A.
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was to revise the Osteoporosis Knowledge Test (OKT) and evaluate its reliability and validity. The original OKT, developed in the early 1990s, needed updating based on current research. A convenience sample of 105 adults completed the draft revised OKT. A subsample ( n = 27) completed the questionnaire 2 weeks later to determine stability. The sample was recruited from diverse sites in western and northern Michigan over a year. The 32-item Revised OKT (2012) demonstrated internal consistency (total scale Kuder–Richardson-20 = .85, Nutrition subscale = .83, and Exercise subscale = .81). Test–retest analysis resulted in a Pearson correlation coefficient of .87. Validity was evaluated by content validity. Questions were examined for difficulty, effectiveness of distracters, and discrimination. In addition, measures of point-biserial, internal consistency and stability were determined. The Revised OKT (2012) is a comprehensive instrument reflecting current research and assesses osteoporosis knowledge of adults.
Facebook Influence Among Incoming College Freshmen
Authors: D’Angelo Jonathan , Zhang Chong , Eickhoff Jens , Moreno Megan
Published: June 2014

Alcohol displays on Facebook are ever present and can be socially desirable for college students. Because problematic drinking is a concern for college students, this research sought to understand how different types of information on a Facebook page influence first year college student likelihood to drink. Telephone interviews were conducted with 338 incoming college freshmen from two large national universities. Data were obtained from a vignette prompt that presented a scenario in which a senior college student’s Facebook profile displayed wall posts, pictures, and status updates that were drinking related or prosocial in nature. Participants were asked to report intention to drink alcohol with that student if they were together at a party. Findings supported the following hypotheses: Wall posts were most influential (the stickiest), followed by pictures, followed by status updates. Findings provide additional empirical support for established online impression formation patterns, and also provide evidence that virtual cues are being ingrained as schemas in interpersonal communication. These results are discussed in relation to the concept of sticky cues in impression formation.
From union legislation to financial reform: A reflection on Thatcherism, capital and the British state
Authors: Rogers Chris
Published: June 2014

In the days and weeks following the death of Margaret Thatcher, a broad range of views about her legacy were expressed in various forums, nearly all of which, for better or worse, emphasised the significance of Thatcherism. This paper reflects on this legacy through an examination of industrial relations policy, macro-economic policy and financial reform, and argues that the Thatcher governments’ primary significance lies in the means by which the interests of labour were subordinated to the end of accumulation, rather than the attempt to achieve these ends as such. Instead, it identifies continuity in attempts by the British state to co-opt or subordinate labour, and argues that the demonization of Thatcherism diverts attention from more fundamental questions about the exploitative and crisis-prone nature of capitalist social relations.
Thatcherism and alternatives: What future for British capitalism?
Authors: Radice Hugo
Published: June 2014

Written in the autumn of 1985, this paper argued that the political economy of Britain under Margaret Thatcher had up until then been discussed largely as a national phenomenon, and one that reflected the subordination of industry to financial interests. The paper proposed that the internationalisation of British capital was in fact a crucial part of the strategy to defeat labour and roll back the state, since Thatcherism welcomed inward investment as well as outward, and was supported by industry as well as finance. A left alternative had not only to challenge this strategy at national level, but also to be resolutely internationalist in its theory and practice.
‘They can’t be the buffer any longer’: Front-line managers and class relations under white-collar lean production
Authors: Carter Bob , Danford Andrew , Howcroft Debra , Richardson Helen , Smith Andrew , Taylor Phil
Published: June 2014

This article reasserts the value of the examination of class relations. It does so via a case study of tax-processing sites within HM Revenue and Customs, focusing on the changes wrought by the alterations to labour and supervisory processes implemented under the banner of ‘lean production’. It concentrates on the transformation of front-line managers, as their tasks moved from those that required tax knowledge and team support to those that narrowed their work towards output monitoring and employee supervision. Following Carchedi, these changes are conceptualised as strengthening the function of capital performed by managers, and weakening their role within the labour process.
From structural breakage to political reintegration of the working class: Relative surplus population layers in Argentina and their involvement in the piquetero movement
Authors: Kabat Marina
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we examine the different layers of the relative surplus population in Argentina and the development of the Argentinian piquetero movement, which tried to establish an alliance between employed and unemployed workers. We highlight the potentialities and the limits of this initiative, especially regarding the organisation and integration of the different layers of the relative surplus population.
Gramsci and the politics of education
Authors: Mayo Peter
Published: June 2014

This paper deals with aspects of Antonio Gramsci’s thinking on education and related cultural work, highlighting issues such as those of effective curricula, different forms of educators/intellectuals, work-oriented education and popular education, which have resonance with contemporary debates in the field. Gramsci’s ideas provide insights for an effective contemporary socialist pedagogical politics that are based on the principle of critical access to ‘powerful knowledge’ and experiences that promote critical thinking, in formal educational institutions and other learning settings.