bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drosophila‐Cdh1 (Rap/Fzr) a regulatory subunit of APC/C is required for synaptic morphology, synaptic transmission and locomotion
Authors: Wise Alexandria , Schatoff Emma , Flores Julian , Hua Shao‐Ying , Ueda Atsushi , Wu Chun‐Fang , Venkatesh Tadmiri
Published: August 2013

The assembly of functional synapses requires the orchestration of the synthesis and degradation of a multitude of proteins. Protein degradation and modification by the conserved ubiquitination pathway has emerged as a key cellular regulatory mechanism during nervous system development and function (Kwabe and Brose, 2011). The anaphase promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) is a multi‐subunit ubiquitin ligase complex primarily characterized for its role in the regulation of mitosis (Peters, 2002). In recent years, a role for APC/C in nervous system development and function has been rapidly emerging (Stegmuller and Bonni, 2005; Li et al., 2008). In the mammalian central nervous system the activator subunit, APC/C‐Cdh1, has been shown to be a regulator of axon growth and dendrite morphogenesis (Konishi et al., 2004). In the Drosophila peripheral nervous system (PNS), APC2, a ligase subunit of the APC/C complex has been shown to regulate synaptic bouton size and activity (van Roessel et al., 2004). To investigate the role of APC/C‐Cdh1 at the synapse we examined loss‐of‐function mutants of Rap/Fzr (Retina aberrant in pattern/Fizzy related), a Drosophila homolog of the mammalian Cdh1 during the development of the larval neuromuscular junction in Drosophila. Our cell biological, ultrastructural, electrophysiological, and behavioral data showed that rap/fzr loss‐of‐function mutations lead to changes in synaptic structure and function as well as locomotion defects. Data presented here show changes in size and morphology of synaptic boutons, and, muscle tissue organization. Electrophysiological experiments show that loss‐of‐function mutants exhibit increased frequency of spontaneous miniature synaptic potentials, indicating a higher rate of spontaneous synaptic vesicle fusion events. In addition, larval locomotion and peristaltic movement were also impaired. These findings suggest a role for Drosophila APC/C‐Cdh1 mediated ubiquitination in regulating synaptic morphology, function and integrity of muscle structure in the peripheral nervous system.
The intensification of the East Asian winter monsoon contributed to the disappearance ofCedrus(Pinaceae) in southwestern China
Authors: Su Tao , Liu Yu-Sheng (Christopher) , Jacques Frédéric M.B. , Huang Yong-Jiang , Xing Yao-Wu , Zhou Zhe-Kun
Published: August 2013

Climate change during the Quaternary played an important role in the distribution of extant plants. Herein, cone scales ofCedrus(Pinaceae) were uncovered from the Upper Pliocene Sanying Formation, Longmen Village, Yongping County of Yunnan Province in southwestern China. Detailed comparisons show that these fossils all belong to the genusCedrus(Pinaceae), and a new species is proposed,Cedrus angustasp. nov. This find expands the known distribution ofCedrusduring the Late Pliocene to Yunnan, where the genus no longer exists in natural forests. Based on the analysis of reconstructed Neogene climate data, we suggest that the intensification of the East Asian winter monsoon during the Quaternary may have dramatically increased seasonality and given rise to a much drier winter in Yunnan. Combined with information onCedrusfossil records and its seed physiology, we conclude that the intensification of a drier climate after the Late Pliocene may have prevented the survival ofCedrusseedlings, leading to the eventual disappearance ofCedrusin western Yunnan. This study indicates that the topography in southwestern China acted as a vital refuge for many plants during the Quaternary, but that other species gradually disappeared due to the intensification of the monsoonal climate.
GETTIERIZED KNOBE EFFECTS
Authors: Beebe James R. , Shea Joseph
Published: August 2013

We report experimental results showing that participants are more likely to attribute knowledge in familiar Gettier cases when the would-be knowers are performing actions that are negative in some way (e.g. harmful, blameworthy, norm-violating) than when they are performing positive or neutral actions. Our experiments bring together important elements from the Gettier case literature in epistemology and the Knobe effect literature in experimental philosophy and reveal new insights into folk patterns of knowledge attribution.
K′-Theory of a Local Ring of Finite Cohen-Macaulay Type
Authors: Navkal Viraj
Published: August 2013

We study theK′-theory of a CM Henselian local ringRof finite Cohen-Macaulay type. We first describe a long exact sequence involving the groupsK′i(R)and theK-groups of certain other rings, including the Auslander algebra. By examining the terms and maps in the sequence, we obtain information aboutK′(R).
The Characteristic of Cumulative Damage Study about Electrical Insulation Based on Accelerated Life Tests
Authors: Yang Y.-H. , Tsai Y.-T. , Wang K.-S.
Published: August 2013

In this study the Maximum Likelihood Estimator is utilized to identify the characteristics of failure of class-H insulation by considering accelerated life test data under censored situations from Nelson. The hazard rate function is considered in terms of the reliability,h(R), so-called AE model. The AE model is used to model the failures which are expressed as the serial connection between three modes, namely the turn, phase, and ground. This is the so-called competing failure. The main concern in the present investigation relates to the characteristic of changes in cumulative damage with temperature. The characteristic of the damage process basically change, with less capability of cumulation. The failure tends to be unpredictable in a constant hazard rate situation in much higher temperature environments. The parameters of the model are related to the temperature and follow the Arrhenius law. The numerical results indicate that the AE model is well fitted to the data and gives more information to identify the failure modes with fewer parameters. This is better than the using Weibull distribution with both parameters varied with temperature. According to the predicted lifetime, the turn needs to be rearranged primarily, followed by the phase. The ground mode only has influence on the failure at much higher temperatures.
Theoretical and Experimental Study of Spindle Ball Bearing Nonlinear Stiffness
Authors: Madoliat R. , Ghanati M. F.
Published: August 2013

This paper concentrates on theoretical and experimental nonlinear stiffness study of milling machine tool spindle angle contact ball bearing. The theoretical study allows us to build an analytical model to define nonlinear stiffness of angle contact ball bearings based on geometrical and physical parameters. Modifications were done on literature's models (e.g. Balls deformations) having positives impacts on conformity of models to experimental results.

FEM model using ANSYS is constructed to analyze the different parameters affecting the nonlinear stiffness of ball bearing. Among those parameters are physical including the geometry, friction coefficient and the boundary conditions of the model and Numerical parameters such as mesh density and penetration.

Experimental tests were done on the spindle ball bearing 7014, to measure the rigidity. Universal tensile testing machine is used to achieve load displacement curves. The developed theoretical model, constructed finite element model and experimental results showed good conformity.
Numerical study on the Effect of Interaction Vaned Diffuser with Impeller on the Performance of a Modified Centrifugal Compressor
Authors: Jawad L. H. , Abdullah S. , Zulkifli R. , Mahmood W. M. F. W.
Published: August 2013

This paper is a numerical simulation that was made in the three-dimensional flow, carried out in a modified centrifugal compressor, having vaned diffuser stage, used as an auto-motive turbo charger. Moreover, the performance of the centrifugal compressor was dependent on the proper matching between compressor impeller and vaned diffuser, influencing significantly surge and the efficiency of centrifugal compressor stages. In addition, a modified compressor impeller, coupled with vane and vaneless diffuser, has been found to have similar internal flow patterns for both the vaneless and vaned diffuser design. The vaned diffuser effect has been paid particular attention in terms of better analysis where the diffuser was designed for high sub-sonic inlet conditions. Another aim of this research was to study and simulate the effect of vaned diffuser on the performance of a centrifugal compressor. The simulation was undertaken by using a commercial software, the so-called ANSYS CFX, to predict numerically the performance in terms of pressure ratio, poly tropic efficiency and mass flow rate for the centrifugal compressor stage. The results were generated from CFD and were analyzed for better understanding of the fluid flow through centrifugal compressor stage. Conclusively, it was observed that the effect of the vaned diffuser is to convert the kinetic energy into a high static pressure after analyzing the results of the simulation.
A Nonlinear Contact Force Model for Revolute Joint with Clearance
Authors: Bai Z. F. , Zhao Y. , Wang X. G.
Published: August 2013

Clearances in the joints of mechanism cause vibrations and noise in mechanical systems. The contact force model is the important factor in dynamic analysis of mechanical systems with clearance. This paper presents a nonlinear contact force model for revolute joint with clearance, which is a hybrid model of the Lankarani-Nikravesh model and the improved elastic foundation model. The framework of the Lankarani-Nikravesh model is used with the nonlinear stiffness coefficient derived using the improved elastic foundation model and the damping applied in introducing the ratio of the nonlinear stiffness coefficient of the improved elastic foundation model and contact stiffness of Lankarani-Nikravesh model. Finally, the nonlinear hybrid contact force model is analyzed and discussed. The hybrid contact force model presented in this paper is a nonlinear continuous contact force model, which extends contact modeling of joints with clearance and has a greater applicable scope.
Persistent delusional theme over 13 episodes of psychotic depression
Authors: Østergaard Søren Dinesen , Leadholm Anne Katrine K. , Rothschild Anthony J.
Published: August 2013

Objective

Unipolar psychotic depression (PD) is a highly debilitating condition, which needs intense monitoring and treatment. Among patients with recurrent PD, delusions tend to be very similar or identical over several separate episodes during the course of illness, but case reports illustrating this clinical phenomenon in detail are lacking from the literature.

Methods

Case report describing the 45-year-old Ms. J, who has experienced multiple episodes of PD. The report is based on a review of her medical file.

Results

The delusional theme of Ms. J's initial episode of PD reappeared at several subsequent episodes. During the majority of admissions, Ms. J was treated with electroconvulsive therapy, which resulted in significant improvement in the depressive, psychotic and catatonic features.

Conclusion

Ms. J's case illustrates that PD can be a stable phenotype over many episodes and that it is important to recognise psychotic symptoms in order to prescribe the best possible treatment.
Network maps of the human brain's rich club
Authors: SPORNS OLAF , VAN DEN HEUVEL MARTIJN P.
Published: August 2013

Does the human brain have a central connective core, and, if so, how costly is it?

Noninvasive imaging data allow the construction of network maps of the human brain, recording its structural and functional connectivity. A number of studies have reported on various characteristic network attributes, such as a tendency toward local clustering, high global efficiency, the prevalence of specific network motifs, and a pronounced community structure with several anatomically and functionally defined modules and interconnecting hub regions (Bullmore & Sporns, 2009; van den Heuvel & Hulshoff Pol, 2010; Sporns, 2011). Hubs are of particular interest in studies of the brain since they may play crucial roles in integrative processes and global brain communication, thought to be essential for many aspects of higher brain function. Indeed, hubs have been shown to correspond to brain regions that exhibit complex physiological responses and maintain widespread and diverse connection profiles with other parts of the brain. We asked if, in addition to being highly connected, brain hubs would also exhibit a strong tendency to be mutually interconnected, forming what has been called a “rich club” (Colizza et al., 2006). Rich club organization is present in a network if sets of high-degree nodes exhibit denser mutual connections than predicted on the basis of the degree sequence alone. We investigated rich club organization in the human brain in datasets that recorded weighted projections among different anatomical regions of the cerebral cortex, recorded from several cohorts of healthy human volunteers (van den Heuvel & Sporns, 2011; van den Heuvel et al., 2012).
No Time Like The Present: Determinants Of Intentions To Engage In Bystander Anti-Racism On Behalf Of Indigenous Australians
Authors: Neto Yara Frias , Pedersen Anne
Published: August 2013

The present study explored whether variables previously shown to relate to pro-social attitudes and behaviours could be applied to the intention to engage in bystander anti-racism on behalf of Indigenous Australians. 149 non-Indigenous participants were asked to indicate how likely they were to engage in bystander anti-racism in response to an ‘everyday’ racial discrimination scenario presented within an online survey. Being female, older, and politically left leaning correlated with bystander anti-racism intentions, as did higher levels of collective guilt, anger, empathic concern and lower levels of prejudice. Regression analysis revealed that being older and having higher levels of empathic concern predicted the intention to engage in bystander anti-racism. While it may seem rational that the ability to feel for the plight of another (empathic concern) is necessary for bystander anti-racism to ensue, older individuals may feel more competent in their ability to effectively intervene.
THE ROBIN PROBLEM FOR THE HÉNON EQUATION
Authors: HE HAIYANG
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we consider the following Robin problem:$$\begin{eqnarray*}\displaystyle \left\{ \begin{array}{ @{}ll@{}} \displaystyle - \Delta u= \mid x{\mathop{\mid }\nolimits }^{\alpha } {u}^{p} , \quad & \displaystyle x\in \Omega , \\ \displaystyle u\gt 0, \quad & \displaystyle x\in \Omega , \\ \displaystyle \displaystyle \frac{\partial u}{\partial \nu } + \beta u= 0, \quad & \displaystyle x\in \partial \Omega , \end{array} \right.&&\displaystyle\end{eqnarray*}$$where$\Omega $is the unit ball in${ \mathbb{R} }^{N} $centred at the origin, with$N\geq 3$,$p\gt 1$,$\alpha \gt 0$,$\beta \gt 0$, and$\nu $is the unit outward vector normal to$\partial \Omega $. We prove that the above problem has no solution when$\beta $is small enough. We also obtain existence results and we analyse the symmetry breaking of the ground state solutions.
ON SOLUTIONS TO SOME POLYNOMIAL CONGRUENCES IN SMALL BOXES
Authors: SHPARLINSKI IGOR E.
Published: August 2013

We use bounds of mixed character sum to study the distribution of solutions to certain polynomial systems of congruences modulo a prime $p$. In particular, we obtain nontrivial results about the number of solutions in boxes with the side length below ${p}^{1/ 2} $, which seems to be the limit of more general methods based on the bounds of exponential sums along varieties.
COMBINING MULTI-DIMENSIONAL SCALING AND CLUSTER ANALYSIS TO DESCRIBE THE DIVERSITY OF RURAL HOUSEHOLDS
Authors: PACINI G. C. , COLUCCI D. , BAUDRON F. , RIGHI E. , CORBEELS M. , TITTONELL P. , STEFANINI F. M.
Published: August 2013

Capturing agricultural heterogeneity through the analysis of farm typologies is key with regard to the design of sustainable policies and to the adoptability of new technologies. An optimal balance needs to be found between, on the one hand, the requirement to consider local stakeholder and expert knowledge for typology identification, and on the other hand, the need to identify typologies that transcend the local boundaries of single studies and can be used for comparisons. In this paper, we propose a method that supports expert-driven identification of farm typologies, while at the same time keeping the characteristics of objectivity and reproducibility of statistical tools. The method uses a range of multivariate analysis techniques and it is based on a protocol that favours the use of stakeholder and expert knowledge in the process of typology identification by means of visualization of farm groups and relevant statistics. Results of two studies in Zimbabwe and Kenya are shown. Findings obtained with the method proposed are contrasted with those obtained through a parametric method based on latent class analysis. The method is compared to alternative approaches with regard to stakeholder-orientation and statistical reliability.
A rare association of leiomyosarcoma with squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx: two cases
Authors: Kara E , Cetik M F , Tuncer U , Uguz A
Published: August 2013

Objective:

To discuss the histopathogenesis and treatment choices for synchronous tumours of the larynx.

Case reports:

We present two cases of synchronous laryngeal leiomyosarcoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The first case was an early-stage tumour and the second an advanced-stage tumour of the larynx. Selection of adequate treatment for synchronous tumours is difficult because of different spreading rates and metastatic patterns. Treatment choices for both the primary tumour site and the neck should be related to the stage of the squamous component of the tumour.

Conclusion:

In such cases, the tumour location, tumour stage and lymphatic metastases must be carefully evaluated in order to make the optimum treatment choice. Treatment evaluation of the neck should be related to the stage of the squamous component of these synchronous tumours. Partial laryngectomy techniques may be preferred if the extent of the disease permits.
Laryngotracheal reconstruction for relapsing polychondritis: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Xie C , Shah N , Shah P L , Sandhu G
Published: August 2013

Background:

Relapsing polychondritis is a multi-system autoimmune disease characterised by the inflammation and destruction of cartilaginous structures. The most common sites are the pinna, nose, laryngotracheobronchial tree and peripheral joints. Airway involvement occurs in up to half of patients affected, at any disease stage. It is the most severe and life-threatening aspect of the disease, and proves to be a therapeutic challenge.

Objectives:

This article reports our experience of performing laryngotracheal reconstruction in a patient with relapsing polychondritis. A review of the literature is presented, with a focused discussion of airway treatment options.

Methods:

Laryngotracheal reconstruction for relapsing polychondritis was performed using hyoid bone pedicled on sternohyoid muscle.

Conclusion:

Airway management in relapsing polychondritis can improve quality of life and palliate patients effectively.
Detection of a newClytiaspecies (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa: Campanulariidae) with DNA barcoding and life cycle analyses
Authors: Zhou Konglin , Zheng Lianming , He Jinru , Lin Yuanshao , Cao Wenqing , Zhang Wenjing
Published: August 2013

The genusClytiais distributed worldwide, but most accepted species in this genus have been examined either only at the hydroid or medusa stage. The challenge in identifyingClytiaspecies reflects their complex life cycles and phenotypic plasticity. In this study, molecular and morphological investigations ofClytiaspecimens from the coastal waters of China revealed an as yet unreported species, designatedC. xiamenensissp. nov., that was considered as conspecific to two nearly cosmopolitan species,C. hemisphaericaandC. gracilis. DNA barcoding based on partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and large subunit ribosomal RNA gene (16S) confirmed the highly distinct lineage ofC. xiamenensissp. nov. These results were corroborated by the detailed observations of its mature medusae and its colonies, which showed thatC. xiamenensissp. nov. was morphologically distinct from other species ofClytia. Thus, based on our findings, the nearly cosmopolitan distribution attributed to some species ofClytiamight rather be due to the misidentification, and it is necessary to elucidate their whole life cycle in order to establish the systematic validity of all species within the genusClytia.
Grazing effects of the sea urchinTetrapygus nigerand the snailTegula atraon a rocky shore of central Peru
Authors: Hidalgo Fernando J. , Firstater Fausto N. , Lomovasky Betina J. , Iribarne Oscar O.
Published: August 2013

Here we describe habitat use and the grazing effects of the sea urchinTetrapygus nigerand the gastropodTegula atrain the low intertidal zone of a rocky shore in central Peru (Ancón bay: 11°46′S 77°12′W), where these two species were documented as coexisting with no evidence of habitat segregation between them. Gut content and isotopic analyses revealed differences between their diets:T. atraconsumes mainly microalgae whileTetrapygus nigerconsumed also benthic macroalgae. Individual grazing effects were evaluated with inclusion/exclusion experiments.Tetrapygus nigerprevented the colonization of the substrate by sessile organisms, including the dominant musselSemimytilus algosus, whileTegula atrareduced the abundance of microalgae and green ephemeral macroalgae during early succession, but these effects were overwhelmed by the rapid increase in cover ofS. algosus. We suggest thatTetrapygus nigerplays a key role in this low intertidal community. Through directly limiting mussels to monopolize the substratum,T. nigercan reduce the diversity of mussel associated species; conversely, through controlling primary space holders,T. nigercan also benefit other grazers that live on bare substrate by maintaining a suitable area for feeding or living.
Geodia starki sp. nov. (Porifera, Demospongiae, Astrophorida) from the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, USA
Authors: Lehnert Helmut , Stone Robert P. , Drumm David
Published: August 2013

A new species of Geodia is described from the North Pacific, collected in the summer of 2012 in the western Aleutian Islands. Geodia starki sp. nov. differs from all known species of Geodia by the possession of two categories of sterrasters and exceptionally large megascleres. The new species is compared with congeners of the North Pacific Ocean, Bering Sea, Arctic and the North Atlantic Oceans.
Variation in prevalence and intensity of two avian ectoparasites in a polluted area
Authors: EEVA TAPIO , KLEMOLA TERO
Published: August 2013

We counted the numbers of pupae of two ectoparasitic flies (Protocalliphorasp. andOrnithomyiasp.) in the nests of a passerine bird, the pied flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca) to find out if their prevalence or intensity are affected by long-term environmental pollution by a copper smelter and whether such an interaction would have impacts on birds' breeding success. Fecal metal concentrations ofF. hypoleucanestlings were used to explore direct association between metal levels and parasite prevalence, but we also included other explanatory factors in our analysis, such as timing of breeding, brood size, ambient temperature, habitat quality and host population density. We found that environmental pollution decreased the prevalence ofProtocalliphoravia changed habitat quality but did not affect the prevalence ofOrnithomyia. The prevalence of neither ectoparasite was, however, directly related to ambient metal levels. Both ectoparasites showed higher prevalence when ambient temperature during the nestling period was high, emphasizing the potential of climate change to modify host–parasite relationships. The prevalence ofOrnithomyiawas further highest in denseF. hypoleucapopulations and late broods. Nestling survival decreased with increasing infestation intensity ofOrnithomyiawhile no association was found forProtocalliphora. Despite relatively low numbers and overall weak effect of parasites on survival, the possible delayed and/or sublethal effects of these ectoparasites call for further studies. Our results suggest that pollution-related effects on avian ectoparasite numbers are species-specific and reflect habitat changes rather than direct toxic effect of heavy metals.
Identification of a novel chitin-binding spore wall protein (NbSWP12) with a BAR-2 domain fromNosema bombycis(microsporidia)
Authors: CHEN JIE , GENG LINA , LONG MENGXIAN , LI TIAN , LI ZHI , YANG DONGLIN , MA CHAO , WU HAIJING , MA ZHENGANG , LI CHUNFENG , PAN GUOQING , ZHOU ZEYANG
Published: August 2013

The spore wall ofNosema bombycisplays an important role in microsporidian pathogenesis. Protein fractions from germinated spore coats were analysed by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry. Three protein spots were identified as the hypothetical spore wall protein NbHSWP12. A BAR-2 domain (e-value: 1.35e-03) was identified in the protein, and an N-terminal protein-heparin interaction motif, a potential N-glycosylation site, and 16 phosphorylation sites primarily activated by protein kinase C were also predicted. The sequence analysis suggested thatNbhswp12and its homologous genes are widely distributed among microsporidia. Additionally,Nbhswp12gene homologues share similar sequence features. An indirect immunofluorescence analysis showed that NbHSWP12 localized to the spore wall, and thus we renamed it spore wall protein 12 (NbSWP12). Moreover, NbSWP12 could adhere to deproteinizedN. bombycischitin coats that were obtained by hot alkaline treatment. This novelN. bombycisspore wall protein may function in a structural capacity to facilitate microsporidial spore maintenance.
The finch epidemic strain of Trichomonas gallinae is predominant in British non-passerines
Authors: CHI JEAN F. , LAWSON BECKI , DURRANT CHRIS , BECKMANN KATIE , JOHN SHINTO , ALREFAEI ABDULWAHED F. , KIRKBRIDE KIM , BELL DIANA J. , CUNNINGHAM ANDREW A. , TYLER KEVIN M.
Published: August 2013

Avian trichomonosis, caused by the flagellated protozoan Trichomonas gallinae, is a recently emerged infectious disease of British passerines. The aetiological agent, a clonal epidemic strain of the parasite, has caused unprecedented finch mortality and population-level declines in Britain and has since spread to continental Europe. To better understand the potential origin of this epidemic and to further investigate its host range, T. gallinae DNA extracts were collected from parasite culture and tissue samples from a range of avian species in Britain. Sequence typing at the ITS1/5.8S rRNA/ITS2 region resolved three distinct ITS region types circulating in free-ranging British birds. Subtyping by sequence analyses at the Fe-hydrogenase gene demonstrated further strain variation within these ITS region types. The UK finch epidemic strain was preponderant amongst columbids sampled, however, wide strain diversity was encountered in isolates from a relatively small number of pigeons, suggesting further strains present in columbid populations across the UK are yet to be identified. Fe-hydrogenase gene sequence data in isolates from birds of prey with disease were predominantly identical to the UK finch epidemic strain, demonstrating its presence as a virulent strain in UK birds of prey since at least 2009.
The structure of the symptoms of major depression: exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis in depressed Han Chinese women
Authors: Li Y. , Aggen S. , Shi S. , Gao J. , Li Y. , Tao M. , Zhang K. , Wang X. , Gao C. , Yang L. , Liu Y. , Li K. , Shi J. , Wang G. , Liu L. , Zhang J. , Du B. , Jiang G. , Shen J. , Zhang Z. , Liang W. , Sun J. , Hu J. , Liu T. , Wang X. , Miao G. , Meng H. , Li Y. , Hu C. , Li Y. , Huang G. , Li G. , Ha B. , Deng H. , Mei Q. , Zhong H. , Gao S. , Sang H. , Zhang Y. , Fang X. , Yu F. , Yang D. , Liu T. , Chen Y. , Hong X. , Wu W. , Chen G. , Cai M. , Song Y. , Pan J. , Dong J. , Pan R. , Zhang W. , Shen Z. , Liu Z. , Gu D. , Wang X. , Liu X. , Zhang Q. , Flint J. , Kendler K. S.
Published: August 2013

Background

The symptoms of major depression (MD) are clinically diverse. Do they form coherent factors that might clarify the underlying nature of this important psychiatric syndrome?

Method

Symptoms at lifetime worst depressive episode were assessed at structured psychiatric interview in 6008 women of Han Chinese descent, age ⩾30 years with recurrent DSM-IV MD. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatoryfactor analysis (CFA) were performed in Mplus in random split-half samples.

Results

The preliminary EFA results were consistently supported by the findings from CFA. Analyses of the nine DSM-IV MD symptomatic A criteria revealed two factors loading on: (i) general depressive symptoms; and (ii) guilt/suicidal ideation. Examining 14 disaggregated DSM-IV criteria revealed three factors reflecting: (i) weight/appetite disturbance; (ii) general depressive symptoms; and (iii) sleep disturbance. Using all symptoms (n = 27), we identified five factors that reflected: (i) weight/appetite symptoms; (ii) general retarded depressive symptoms; (iii) atypical vegetative symptoms; (iv) suicidality/hopelessness; and (v) symptoms of agitation and anxiety.

Conclusions

MD is a clinically complex syndrome with several underlying correlated symptom dimensions. In addition to a general depressive symptom factor, a complete picture must include factors reflecting typical/atypical vegetative symptoms, cognitive symptoms (hopelessness/suicidal ideation), and an agitated symptom factor characterized by anxiety, guilt, helplessness and irritability. Prior cross-cultural studies, factor analyses of MD in Western populations and empirical findings in this sample showing risk factor profiles similar to those seen in Western populations suggest that our results are likely to be broadly representative of the human depressive syndrome.
A RE-EXAMINATION OF EARLY WHEEL POTTING IN CRETE
Authors: Jeffra Caroline
Published: August 2013

The manner in which Minoan potters first employed the pottery wheel has become a matter of some debate. A growing body of work has taken a sceptical approach to the transition from hand-building to wheel-throwing techniques in a number of contexts, finding that the idea of a technological transition of this nature is not supported by the ceramic evidence. Although a small number of publications have addressed this topic as it relates to Minoan Crete, in light of the evidence from contemporary areas around the Mediterranean and Near East it has become necessary to establish firmly what types of techniques and methods were being used as potters first employed this tool. In order to assess the types of primary forming techniques used by potters during the periods between Middle Minoan IB (when the wheel was first regularly used) and Late Minoan IA (by which time vessels of all sizes were regularly formed with some type of rotation), an experimental type set was produced. Analysis was conducted by correlating the macroscopic features produced with specific forming methods, and then comparing those features against material from Knossos, Palaikastro and Myrtos–Pyrgos. The results of that comparison challenge the established notion that potters had developed wheel-throwing skills during these early periods. Instead, a more complex picture emerges which reveals a process of gradual acquisition of combination techniques (wheel and coils). The pattern of uptake indicates a level of cohesion across the potting community of central and eastern Crete, irrespective of the geographical distance between the three sites studied.
Immigration and loneliness in later life
Authors: WU ZHENG , PENNING MARGARET
Published: August 2013

Although the loneliness of both older adults and immigrants is frequently asserted, knowledge regarding the implications of immigration for loneliness in later life is limited. In particular, little attention has been directed to the impact of factors that might differentiate individuals within the immigrant population. Using data from the 2007 General Social Survey (GSS-21) conducted by Statistics Canada, this study examined the effects of immigrant status as well as immigrant generation, length of residence in Canada and race/ethnicity on loneliness among adults aged 60 and over (N=10,553). Regression analyses (ordinary least squares) estimating both the general and age-specific effects of immigrant experience on loneliness, indicated that immigrants report higher levels of loneliness than native-born Canadians, that race/ethnicity influenced loneliness particularly among immigrants and that generational status as well as length of residence also had an impact, but one that differed across age groups. Immigration-related variables appeared less consequential for loneliness in the oldest-old (aged 80+) than in younger elderly age groups. These findings attest to the significance of immigrant status for an understanding of loneliness in later life but suggest a need to acknowledge the diversity of immigrant experiences associated with lifecourse and other factors.
Robust fuzzy sliding mode control for tracking the robot manipulator in joint space and in presence of uncertainties
Authors: Soltanpour Mohammad Reza , Khooban Mohammad Hassan , Soltani Mahmoodreza
Published: August 2013

This paper proposes a simple fuzzy sliding mode control to achieve the best trajectory tracking for the robot manipulator. In the core of the proposed method, by applying the feedback linearization technique, the known dynamics of the robot's manipulator is removed; then, in order to overcome the remaining uncertainties, a classic sliding mode control is designed. Afterward, by applying the TS fuzzy model, the classic sliding mode controller is converted to fuzzy sliding mode controller with very simple rule base. The mathematical analysis shows that the robot manipulator with the new proposed control in tracking the robot manipulator in presence of uncertainties has the globally asymptotic stability. Finally, to show the performance of the proposed method, the controller is simulated on a robot manipulator with two degrees of freedom as case study of the research. Simulation results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed control scheme in presence of the structured and unstructured uncertainties.
TESTING HOMOGENEITY IN PANEL DATA MODELS WITH INTERACTIVE FIXED EFFECTS
Authors: Su Liangjun , Chen Qihui
Published: August 2013

This paper proposes a residual-based Lagrange Multiplier (LM) test for slope homogeneity in large-dimensional panel data models with interactive fixed effects. We first run the panel regression under the null to obtain the restricted residuals and then use them to construct our LM test statistic. We show that after being appropriately centered and scaled, our test statistic is asymptotically normally distributed under the null and a sequence of Pitman local alternatives. The asymptotic distributional theories are established under fairly general conditions that allow for both lagged dependent variables and conditional heteroskedasticity of unknown form by relying on the concept of conditional strong mixing. To improve the finite-sample performance of the test, we also propose a bootstrap procedure to obtain the bootstrap p-values and justify its validity. Monte Carlo simulations suggest that the test has correct size and satisfactory power. We apply our test to study the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development economic growth model.
Resistant Gram-negative infections in the outpatient setting in Latin America
Authors: SALLES M. J. C. , ZURITA J. , MEJÍA C. , VILLEGAS M. V.
Published: August 2013

Latin America has a high rate of community-associated infections caused by multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae relative to other world regions. A review of the literature over the last 10 years indicates that urinary tract infections (UTIs) byEscherichia coli, and intra-abdominal infections (IAIs) byE. coliandKlebsiella pneumoniae, were characterized by high rates of resistance to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, quinolones, and second-generation cephalosporins, and by low levels of resistance to aminoglycosides, nitrofurantoin, and fosfomycin. In addition, preliminary data indicate an increase in IAIs by Enterobacteriaceae producing extended-spectrumβ-lactamases, with reduced susceptibilities to third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins. Primary-care physicians in Latin America should recognize the public health threat associated with UTIs and IAIs by resistant Gram-negative bacteria. As the number of therapeutic options become limited, we recommend that antimicrobial prescribing be guided by infection severity, established patient risk factors for multidrug-resistant infections, acquaintance with local antimicrobial susceptibility data, and culture collection.
An examination of linking hypotheses drawn from the perceptual consequences of experimentally induced changes in neural circuitry
Authors: MITCHELL DONALD E. , LOMBER STEPHEN G.
Published: August 2013

Because targeted early experiential manipulations alter both perception and the response properties of particular cells in the striate cortex, they have been used as evidence for linking hypotheses between the two. However, such hypotheses assume that the effects of the early biased visual input are restricted to just the specific cell population and/or visual areas of interest and that the neural populations that contribute to the visual perception itself do not change. To examine this assumption, we measured the consequences for vision of an extended period of early monocular deprivation (MD) on a kitten (from 19 to 219 days of age) that began well before, and extended beyond, bilateral ablation of visual cortical areas 17 and 18 at 132 days of age. In agreement with previous work, the lesion reduced visual acuity by only a factor of two indicating that the neural sites, other than cortical areas 17 and 18, that support vision in their absence have good spatial resolution. However, these sites appear to be affected profoundly by MD as the effects on vision were just as severe as those observed following MD imposed on normal animals. The pervasive effects of selected early visual deprivation across many cortical areas reported here and elsewhere, together with the potential for perception to be mediated at a different neural site following deprivation than after typical rearing, points to a need for caution in the use of data from early experiential manipulations for formulation of linking hypotheses.
FIRST ACTS, LAST ACTS, AND ABANDONMENT
Authors: Brink David O.
Published: August 2013

This contribution reconstructs and assesses Yaffe's claims about what constitutes an attempt, what can count as evidence that an attempt has been made, whether abandonment is a genuine defense, and whether attempts should be punished less severely than completed crimes. I contrast Yaffe's account of being motivated by an intention and the completion of an attempt in terms of the truth of the completion counterfactual with an alternative picture of attempts as temporally extended decision trees that are complete insofar as the agent has progressed toward the final act in the tree. I suggest that this alternative scalar conception of attempt may provide a more plausible account of the defense of abandonment. I also raise questions about whether Yaffe has provided an adequate justification of his mix of luck skepticism about censure and luck realism about punishment.
Core Schemas across the Continuum of Psychosis: A Comparison of Clinical and Non-Clinical Groups
Authors: Taylor Hannah E. , Stewart Suzanne L. K. , Dunn Graham , Parker Sophie , Fowler David , Morrison Anthony P.
Published: August 2013

Background: Research suggests that core schemas are important in both the development and maintenance of psychosis. Aims: The aim of the study was to investigate and compare core schemas in four groups along the continuum of psychosis and examine the relationships between schemas and positive psychotic symptomatology. Method: A measure of core schemas was distributed to 20 individuals experiencing first-episode psychosis (FEP), 113 individuals with “at risk mental states” (ARMS), 28 participants forming a help-seeking clinical group (HSC), and 30 non-help-seeking individuals who endorse some psychotic-like experiences (NH). Results: The clinical groups scored significantly higher than the NH group for negative beliefs about self and about others. No significant effects of group on positive beliefs about others were found. For positive beliefs about the self, the NH group scored significantly higher than the clinical groups. Furthermore, negative beliefs about self and others were related to positive psychotic symptomatology and to distress related to those experiences. Conclusions: Negative evaluations of the self and others appear to be characteristic of the appraisals of people seeking help for psychosis and psychosis-like experiences. The results support the literature that suggests that self-esteem should be a target for intervention. Future research would benefit from including comparison groups of people experiencing chronic psychosis and people who do not have any psychotic-like experiences.
Hippocampal Lateralization and Memory in Children and Adults
Authors: Hopf Laura , Quraan Maher A. , Cheung Michael J. , Taylor Margot J. , Ryan Jennifer D. , Moses Sandra N.
Published: August 2013

The neural organization of cognitive processes, particularly hemispheric lateralization, changes throughout childhood and adolescence. Differences in the neural basis of relational memory between children and adults are not well characterized. In this study we used magnetoencephalography to observe the lateralization differences of hippocampal activation in children and adults during performance of a relational memory task, transverse patterning (TP). The TP task was paired with an elemental control task, which does not depend upon the hippocampus. We contrasted two hypotheses; the compensation hypothesis would suggest that more bilateral activation in children would lead to better TP performance, whereas the maturation hypothesis would predict that a more adult-like right-lateralized pattern of hippocampal activation would lead to better performance. Mean-centered partial least squares analysis was used to determine unique patterns of brain activation specific to each task per group, while diminishing activation that is consistent across tasks. Our findings support the maturation hypothesis that a more adult-like pattern of increased right hippocampal lateralization in children leads to superior performance on the TP task. We also found dynamic changes of lateralization throughout the time course for all three groups, suggesting that caution is needed when interpreting conclusions about brain lateralization. (JINS, 2013, 19, 1–11)
Associations of dietary habits, physical activity and cognitive views with gestational diabetes mellitus among Chinese women
Authors: Li Qing , Xiong Ribo , Wang Liang , Cui Junying , Shi Linna , Liu Yungang , Luo Bingde
Published: August 2013

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between dietary habits, physical activity and cognitive views and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in Chinese women.

Design

A cross-sectional study to explore the potential risk factors of GMD through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, an FFQ and a self-designed structured questionnaire, respectively.

Setting

Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.

Subjects

Chinese pregnant women (n 571) who underwent a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test at their 24th to 28th gestational week.

Results

Thirteen per cent of the investigated women were identified as having GDM, and an increased intake of local featured foods and lower physical activity were observed in the GDM-positive group v. the GDM-negative group. Women who regarded early-pregnancy morning sickness as relevant to fetal abnormalities and those with unlimited dietary intake after the ending of morning sickness both had an increased risk for GDM (P = 0·018 and P = 0·038, respectively). After multiple logistic regression analysis, cognitive views for unlimited food intake subsequent to morning sickness, increased consumption of energy-dense snack foods and high-glycaemic-index fruits were strongly associated with the risk of GDM (OR = 1·911, P = 0·032; OR = 1·050, P = 0·001; and OR = 1·002, P = 0·017, respectively).

Conclusions

Local featured foods and incorrect cognitive views on pregnancy-related health were closely related to the risk of GDM in Chinese women. Intensive health education about pregnancy physiology and reasonable dietary and physical exercise behaviours should be strengthened for the control of GDM.
Review ArticleCurrent salt reduction policies across gradients of inequality-adjusted human development in the WHO European region: minding the gaps
Authors: Rodriguez-Fernandez Rodrigo , Siopa Margarida , Simpson Sarah J , Amiya Rachel M , Breda Joao , Cappuccio Francesco P
Published: August 2013

Objective

To assess current salt†reduction policies in countries of the WHO European Region against the backdrop of varying levels of human development adjusted for income, education and health (longevity) inequalities.

Design

Population-based, cross-sectional study, with data gathered through systematic review of relevant databases and supplementary information provided by WHO Nutrition Counterparts.

Setting

Member States of the WHO European Region.

Subjects

Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index scores were analysed against assessed levels of development and implementation of national nutrition policies and initiatives targeting population-level salt reduction.

Results

Within the WHO European Region, Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index values among countries with no existing salt reduction initiatives (mean 0·643 (se0·022)) were significantly lower than among those with either partially implemented/planned salt initiatives (mean 0·766 (se0·017),P< 0·001) or fully implemented salt initiatives (mean 0·780 (se0·021),P< 0·001).

Conclusions

Where salt reduction strategies are implemented as an integral part of national policy, outcomes have been promising. However, low- and middle-income countries may face severe resource constraints that keep them from emulating more comprehensive strategies pursued in high-income countries. Care must be taken to ensure that gaps are not inadvertently widened by monitoring differential policy impacts of salt policies, particularly regarding trade flows.