bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain Size and Visual Environment Predict Species Differences in Paper Wasp Sensory Processing Brain Regions (Hymenoptera: Vespidae, Polistinae)
Authors: O'Donnell Sean , Clifford Marie R. , DeLeon Sara , Papa Christopher , Zahedi Nazaneen , Bulova Susan J.
Published: November 2013

The mosaic brain evolution hypothesis predicts that the relative volumes of functionally distinct brain regions will vary independently and correlate with species' ecology. Paper wasp species (Hymenoptera: Vespidae, Polistinae) differ in light exposure: they construct open versus enclosed nests and one genus (Apoica) is nocturnal. We asked whether light environments were related to species differences in the size of antennal and optic processing brain tissues. Paper wasp brains have anatomically distinct peripheral and central regions that process antennal and optic sensory inputs. We measured the volumes of 4 sensory processing brain regions in paper wasp species from 13 Neotropical genera including open and enclosed nesters, and diurnal and nocturnal species. Species differed in sensory region volumes, but there was no evidence for trade-offs among sensory modalities. All sensory region volumes correlated with brain size. However, peripheral optic processing investment increased with brain size at a higher rate than peripheral antennal processing investment. Our data suggest that mosaic and concerted (size-constrained) brain evolution are not exclusive alternatives. When brain regions increase with brain size at different rates, these distinct allometries can allow for differential investment among sensory modalities. As predicted by mosaic evolution, species ecology was associated with some aspects of brain region investment. Nest architecture variation was not associated with brain investment differences, but the nocturnal genus Apoica had the largest antennal:optic volume ratio in its peripheral sensory lobes. Investment in central processing tissues was not related to nocturnality, a pattern also noted in mammals. The plasticity of neural connections in central regions may accommodate evolutionary shifts in input from the periphery with relatively minor changes in volume.
Increased Survival in the Red Flour Beetle after Oral Priming with Bacteria-Conditioned Media
Authors: Milutinović Barbara , Fritzlar Svenja , Kurtz Joachim
Published: November 2013

Immune priming is defined as enhanced protection upon secondary exposure to a pathogen. Such enhanced resistance after prior exposure has been demonstrated for a number of insect species including the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum. In testing this phenomenon, the majority of studies have focused on introducing the pathogen into the insect's hemocoel via septic wounding through the cuticle. Although such septic injury can occur in nature, many pathogens enter their hosts via the oral route, i.e. by ingestion. Bacillus thuringiensis bacteria are well-known insect pathogens that infect their host orally. We found that T. castaneum larvae showed increased survival after oral exposure to B. thuringiensis, when they had been orally primed with filter-sterilized media in which spores of B. thuringiensis had been raised. Such priming was achieved only with a naturally pathogenic strain of B. thuringiensis and a strain that was made pathogenic by transfer of plasmids. Moreover, primed larvae were smaller in size 24 h after priming and had a longer developmental time, indicating that investment in such a response comes at a cost. However, the increased survival in primed larvae was not caused by larval size differences upon challenge.
Maternal Immune Activation Increases the Corticosterone Response to Acute Stress without Affecting the Hypothalamic Monoamine Content and Sleep Patterns in Male Mice Offspring
Authors: Zager Adriano , Andersen Monica L. , Tufik Sergio , Palermo-Neto João
Published: November 2013

Background/Aims: Early life experiences are homeostatic determinants for adult organisms. We evaluated the impact of prenatal immune activation during late gestation on the neuroimmune-endocrine function of adult offspring and its interaction with acute stress. Methods: Pregnant Swiss mice received saline or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on gestational day 17. Adult male offspring were assigned to the control or restraint stress condition. We analyzed plasmatic corticosterone and catecholamine levels, the monoamine content in the hypothalamus, striatum and frontal cortex, and the sleep-wake cycle before and after acute restraint stress. Results and Conclusion: Offspring from LPS-treated dams had increased baseline norepinephrine levels and potentiated corticosterone secretion after the acute stressor, and no effect was observed on hypothalamic monoamine content or sleep behavior. The offspring of immune-activated dams exhibited impairments in stress-induced serotonergic and dopaminergic alterations in the striatum and frontal cortex. The data demonstrate a distinction between the plasmatic levels of corticosterone in response to acute stress and the hypothalamic monoamine content and sleep patterns. We provide new evidence regarding the influence of immune activation during late gestation on the neuroendocrine homeostasis of offspring.
Generic Medicine Substitution: A Cross-Sectional Survey of the Perception of Pharmacists in North-Central, Nigeria
Authors: Auta Asa , Bala Echuku Tercee , Shalkur David
Published: November 2013

Objective: To investigate the views of pharmacists in North-Central Nigeria on generic medicines and generic substitution practices. Subjects and Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 4 cities in North-Central Nigeria from April to June 2012 among 330 pharmacists in hospital and community pharmacy settings, recruited through a convenience sampling strategy. Data were collected using a prevalidated self-administered questionnaire and entered into SPSS version 16.0 software to generate descriptive statistics. Binary logistic regression was conducted to determine the demographic predictors of preference for generic substitution among respondents. Results: The response rate was 46.7% (n = 154). Eighty-four (54.5%) respondents reported that generic medicines were not of equivalent quality to branded ones. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the perception of respondents regarding the quality of imported generic medicines over locally manufactured ones. While 143 (92.9%) respondents supported generic substitution practices, 105 (68.2%) would prefer to recommend generic medicines over branded ones. Hospital pharmacists were more likely (OR = 2.6; 95% CI 1.2-5.8) than community pharmacists to recommend generic medicines. One hundred and fifty-three (99.4%) respondents would support the implementation of a future generic substitution right for pharmacists in Nigeria. Conclusion: The present study showed a high support for generic substitution and future generic substitution rights for pharmacists in Nigeria.
Elevated Plasma Fibrinogen Levels Are Associated with a Poor Prognosis in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kinoshita Akiyoshi , Onoda Hiroshi , Imai Nami , Iwaku Akira , Oishi Mutumi , Tanaka Ken , Fushiya Nao , Koike Kazuhiko , Nishino Hirokazu , Matsushima Masato , Tajiri Hisao
Published: November 2013

Objectives: Elevated plasma fibrinogen levels are associated with tumor progression and poor outcomes in cancer patients. We investigated the prognostic value of pretreatment plasma fibrinogen levels in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: One hundred and thirteen patients with newly diagnosed HCC were retrospectively evaluated. We investigated the correlation between pretreatment plasma fibrinogen levels, clinicopathological parameters and overall survival. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the clinicopathological parameters associated with overall survival. Results: The median value of the pretreatment plasma fibrinogen level was 279 mg/dl. Elevated plasma fibrinogen levels were associated with larger tumor size, the presence of vascular invasion and higher Cancer Liver Italian Program scores. Lower plasma fibrinogen levels were associated with higher Child-Pugh grades. The overall survival rates in patients with pretreatment plasma fibrinogen levels ≥315 mg/dl were significantly lower than those with a pretreatment plasma fibrinogen level <315 mg/dl (p = 0.016). On multivariate analysis, the plasma fibrinogen levels (per 100 mg/dl) were found to be independently associated with overall survival (hazard ratio 1.236; p = 0.046). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that elevated pretreatment plasma fibrinogen levels are associated with tumor progression and are independently associated with a poor prognosis in patients with HCC.
Use of an Amplatzer Device for Endoscopic Closure of a Large Bronchopleural Fistula following Lobectomy for a Stage I Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ottevaere A. , Slabbynck H. , Vermeersch P. , Rogiers P. , Galdermans D. , De Droogh E. , Bedert L.
Published: November 2013

Bronchopleural fistulas can occur as a rare but severe complication after pulmonary resection. Established guidelines for the proper treatment of patients with bronchopleural fistulas do not exist. Apart from attempts to close the fistula, emphasis is placed on preventive measures, early treatment with antibiotics, drainage of the empyema and aggressive nutritional and rehabilitative support. For inoperable patients, endoscopic procedures are the only therapeutic option. Unfortunately, large (>8 mm) or central bronchopleural fistulas are usually not suitable for such endoscopic management. Recently, some groups have published a few case reports about a novel technique for the endobronchial closure of bronchopleural fistulas, using an Amplatzer device, originally designed for transcatheter closure of cardiac septal defects. We applied the same technique as a life-saving treatment in a ventilated patient who was considered inoperable due to a high oxygen need. The operation was successful. The patient could be weaned from ventilation and was eventually discharged from the hospital to a rehabilitation facility several weeks after the insertion of the device. Until now, endoscopic techniques have only been useful for the treatment of small, peripheral, bronchopleural fistulas and even then only as a bridge to surgery in high-risk surgical patients. In this case report, we demonstrate that the use of an Amplatzer device can expand the importance of endoscopic techniques in the treatment of bronchopleural fistulas. An Amplatzer device, for endobronchial closure, can indeed be administered for large and central bronchopleural fistulas. Moreover, it can be considered as a definite alternative to surgery in inoperable patients.
Möbius Syndrome: Surgical Treatment for Eyelid Dysfunction
Authors: Lopez-Valverde Gloria , Jarrin-Hernandez Elena , Cruz-Gonzalez Fernando , Mateos-Sanchez Encarnacion
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Möbius syndrome is a heterogeneous congenital disorder that is linked to bilateral palsies of the cranial nerves VI and VII, resulting in congenital facial paralysis sometimes associated with impaired ocular abduction. Case Report: We present the case of a 44-year-old woman with Möbius syndrome and inferior recurrent keratitis secondary to scleral show in both eyes. We decided to use a cartilage graft from the ear in the inferior eyelid to avoid eyelid retraction and scleral show. Discussion: Patients with Möbius syndrome have a severe dysfunction of their facial mimic. Their treatment must be individualized, depending on their age, clinical examination and symptoms.
Cardiac‐specific Hexokinase 2 Overexpression Attenuates Hypertrophy by Increasing Pentose Phosphate Pathway Flux
Authors: McCommis Kyle S. , Douglas Diana L. , Krenz Maike , Baines Christopher P.
Published: November 2013

Background

The enzyme hexokinase‐2 (
HK
2) phosphorylates glucose, which is the initiating step in virtually all glucose utilization pathways. Cardiac hypertrophy is associated with a switch towards increased glucose metabolism and decreased fatty acid metabolism. Recent evidence suggests that the increased glucose utilization is compensatory to the down‐regulated fatty acid metabolism during hypertrophy and is, in fact, beneficial. Therefore, we hypothesized that increasing glucose utilization by
HK
2 overexpression would decrease cardiac hypertrophy.

Methods and Results

Mice with cardiac‐specific
HK
2 overexpression displayed decreased hypertrophy in response to isoproterenol. Neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (
NRVM
s) infected with an
HK
2 adenovirus similarly displayed decreased hypertrophy in response to phenylephrine. Hypertrophy increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, which were attenuated by
HK
2 overexpression, thereby decreasing
NRVM
hypertrophy and death.
HK
2 appears to modulate
ROS
via the pentose phosphate pathway, as inhibition of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase with dehydroepiandrosterone decreased the ability of
HK
2 to diminish
ROS
and hypertrophy.

Conclusions

These results suggest that
HK
2 attenuates cardiac hypertrophy by decreasing
ROS
accumulation via increased pentose phosphate pathway flux.
Caesio xanthalytos, a new species of fusilier (Perciformes: Caesionidae) from the Western Indian Ocean, with records of range extensions for several species of Caesionidae
Authors: HOLLEMAN WOUTER , CONNELL ALLAN D. , CARPENTER KENT E.
Published: November 2013

Caesio xanthalytos, a new species of fusilier, closely related to Caesio caerulaurea Lacepède 1801, is described from several specimens from various localities on the east coast of Africa, and from southern Madagascar. While very similar in colour pattern to C. caerulaurea, its lateral line lies within a dominant, composite yellow stripe, whereas in C. caurulaurea the lateral line lies immediately below the yellow stripe. The two species also differ in the number of lateral-line scales, the modal number of pectoral-fin rays, in the form of the nuchal scale patch, and genetically. The new species has been observed to school with C. caerulaurea and with C. varilineata Carpenter 1987. The ranges of several species of Caesio and Pterocaesio and of Dipterygonotus balteatus and Gymnocaesio gymnoptera are extended to localities on the South African east coast.
Larvae of Cueta sauteri (Esben-Petersen) and Myrmeleon bore (Tjeder) (Neuroptera, Myrmeleontidae): description and behavioral notes
Authors: ZHANG JIE , ZHANG XUBO , WANG XINLI
Published: November 2013

Antlion larvae of Cueta sauteri (Esben-Petersen) and Myrmeleon bore (Tjeder) from mainland China were collected in the field and reared to adults in the laboratory. Larval morphology of each species was described and complemented with behavioral observations. Their most important diagnostic characteristics are head capsule markings, mandibular length, mandibular teeth length, distance between mandibular teeth, bristle number between the distal mandibular tooth and apex of the mandible, morphology of labial palpi and antennae, peduncle of mesothoracic spiracle and the arrangement of digging bristles. Larvae of these two species construct similar conical pits and wait for prey at the bottom of the traps.
Arctic Ocean Circulation Patterns Revealed by GRACE
Authors: Peralta-Ferriz Cecilia , Morison James H. , Wallace John M. , Bonin Jennifer A. , Zhang Jinlun
Published: November 2013

Measurements of ocean bottom pressure (OBP) anomalies from the satellite mission Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE), complemented by information from two ocean models, are used to investigate the variations and distribution of the Arctic Ocean mass from 2002 through 2011. The forcing and dynamics associated with the observed OBP changes are explored. Major findings are the identification of three primary temporal–spatial modes of OBP variability at monthly-to-interannual time scales with the following characteristics. Mode 1 (50% of the variance) is a wintertime basin-coherent Arctic mass change forced by southerly winds through Fram Strait, and to a lesser extent through Bering Strait. These winds generate northward geostrophic current anomalies that increase the mass in the Arctic Ocean. Mode 2 (20%) reveals a mass change along the Siberian shelves, driven by surface Ekman transport and associated with the Arctic Oscillation. Mode 3 (10%) reveals a mass dipole, with mass decreasing in the Chukchi, East Siberian, and Laptev Seas, and mass increasing in the Barents and Kara Seas. During the summer, the mass decrease on the East Siberian shelves is due to the basin-scale anticyclonic atmospheric circulation that removes mass from the shelves via Ekman transport. During the winter, the forcing mechanisms include a large-scale cyclonic atmospheric circulation in the eastern-central Arctic that produces mass divergence into the Canada Basin and the Barents Sea. In addition, strengthening of the Beaufort high tends to remove mass from the East Siberian and Chukchi Seas. Supporting previous modeling results, the month-to-month variability in OBP associated with each mode is predominantly of barotropic character.
Response of a Strongly Eddying Global Ocean to North Atlantic Freshwater Perturbations
Authors: Toom Matthijs den , Dijkstra Henk A. , Weijer Wilbert , Hecht Matthew W. , Maltrud Mathew E. , van Sebille Erik
Published: November 2013

The strongly eddying version of the Parallel Ocean Program (POP) is used in two 45-yr simulations to investigate the response of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) to strongly enhanced freshwater input due to Greenland melting, with an integrated flux of 0.5 Sverdrups (Sv; 1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1). For comparison, a similar set of experiments is performed using a noneddying version of POP. The aim is to identify the signature of the salt advection feedback in the two configurations. For this reason, surface salinity is not restored in these experiments. The freshwater input leads to a quantitatively comparable reduction of the overturning strength in the two models. To examine the importance of transient effects in the relation between AMOC strength and density distribution, the results of the eddy-resolving model are related to water mass transformation theory. The freshwater forcing leads to a reduction of the rate of light to dense water conversion in the North Atlantic, but there is no change in dense to light transformation elsewhere, implying that high density layers are continuously deflating. The main focus of the paper is on the effect of the AMOC reduction on the basinwide advection of freshwater. The low-resolution model results show a change of the net freshwater advection that is consistent with the salt advection feedback. However, for the eddy-resolving model, the net freshwater advection into the Atlantic basin appears to be unaffected, despite the significant change in the large-scale velocity structure.
Mitt Romney’s Racist Appeals
Authors: McIlwain Charlton D. , Caliendo Stephen M.
Published: November 2013

This article identifies a marked difference in the type of race-based appeals that dominated Barack Obama’s presidential reelection contest in 2012 from his inaugural campaign in 2008. Racist appeals by Mitt Romney and the right in 2012 supplanted the racial appeals by Obama and the left in 2008. We focus our attention on a particularly salient form of racist appeal, one based on the long-standing stereotypes of black laziness and taking advantage. Specifically, we outline the historical underpinnings of these stereotypes. We then demonstrate how Romney and the right wove these underlying stereotypes into a seamless racist narrative—through political advertisements, online messaging, political speeches and debate statements—beginning with the Republican primary and continuing through the general election.
The compassionate taking of life and assisted suicide
Authors: Samuels A
Published: November 2013

Mercy killing. Assisted suicide. The dependent patient. Withholding treatment. The practice of medicine and the civil and criminal law. Legal protection for patients and doctors. The role of judges. The role of politicians.
How Prevalent is Performance-Related Pay in the United States? Current Incidence and Recent Trends
Authors: Gittleman Maury , Pierce Brooks
Published: November 2013

We address basic questions about performance-related pay in the US. How widespread is it? What characteristics of employers and jobs are associated with it? What are recent trends in its incidence? What factors are responsible for these trends? Nearly two-fifths of hours worked in the US economy in 2013 were in jobs with performance-related pay, but this share has been declining. We consider several possible causes for this trend and find that they do not have much explanatory power. We do establish, however, that any potential explanation must also account for a long-term shift in the relative incidence of performance-related pay away from low-wage and toward high-wage jobs.
Industrial Composition, Methods of Compensation and Real Earnings in the Great Depression
Authors: Hart Robert A. , Roberts J. Elizabeth
Published: November 2013

A major objective of the government during the Great Recession has been severely to restrict public sector real wage growth. One potential advantage of performance-related pay schemes is that they naturally offer greater wage responsiveness to fluctuations in the business cycle. Based on evidence from engineering and allied industries during the Great Depression we show that piecework wages exhibited more flexibility than their timework equivalents. We compare and contrast southern/midland engineering districts of Britain with northern districts. The former region was dominated by piece-rated workers and by modern sections of the industry, such as vehicle and aircraft manufacture. Time-rated work predominated in northern districts where older sections – for example, marine and textile engineering – were clustered‥
A Response to Bill Martin and Robert Rowthorn
Authors: Goodridge Peter , Haskel Jonathan , Wallis Gavin
Published: November 2013

This note responds to a critique of our recent paper, “Can Intangible Investment Explain the UK Productivity Puzzle?”. In that critique Martin and Rowthorn (MR) present a re-working of data on labour composition which they feel refutes an element of our argument. In this response we argue that the data are still in support of our original position. Essentially, the puzzle is that measured labour productivity has been falling, but labour quality is rising, so, at least on this measure, changes in labour quality cannot explain falling productivity.
Shale Energy Shapes Global Energy Markets
Authors: Chojna Janusz , Losoncz Miklós , Suni Paavo
Published: November 2013

Unconventional resources of crude oil and natural gas – shale energy – increased significantly in the US in the early 2000s, triggered by the strong rise in the price of crude oil and technical advances in production. The US is a clear forerunner in the production of shale energy, due to its existing knowledge and infrastructure. The rest of the world is following, although negative environmental effects and other factors have obstructed the diffusion of new extraction methods. In Europe, Polish production is expected to start in the next few years, although environmental concerns are delaying the onset. The rise in the importance of shale energy will increase global oil and gas production markedly. The rising global supplies will improve global energy security in the long run and help to stabilise the large international price differences for natural gas.
Identification of one-place-unbounded Petri nets from their modified coverability graph
Authors: Ji Guangyou , Wang Mingzhe
Published: November 2013

This paper presents the problem of identifying a one-place unbounded Petri net. Given an unlabelled graph that represents the modified coverability graph of a net, we establish a Petri net model whose modified coverability graph is isomorphic to the unlabelled graph, and that can identify the weight of the arcs that cannot be obtained from the coverability graph of the net. Based on the partition of the nodes in the unlabelled graph, we guess and decide the structure of a Petri net and the weight of the arcs by an integer linear programming problem. The unknowns to be determined are the elements of the pre- and post-incidence matrices and the initial marking of the net, which can be computed by solving an integer linear programming problem. Finally, an example is used to validate the rationality and effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Prevalence of Malnutrition in Various Political, Economic, and Geographic Settings
Authors: Klek Stanislaw , Krznaric Zeljko , Gundogdu Riza Haldun , Chourdakis Michael , Kekstas Gintautas , Jakobson Triin , Paluszkiewicz Piotr , Vranesic Bender Darija , Uyar Mehmet , Demirag Kubilay , Poulia Kalliopi Anna , Klimasauskas Andrius , Starkopf Joel , Galas Aleksander
Published: November 2013

Background: Disease‐related malnutrition (DRM) represents a critical public health concern. Therefore, Fight Against Malnutrition (FAM) should be a state priority, but the degree to which this is true appears to differ considerably among European countries. The aim of this study was to put the problem into perspective by comparing the prevalence of malnutrition in countries from opposite parts of the continent. Methods: Six countries—Croatia, Estonia, Greece, Lithuania, Poland, and Turkey—participated in the study. A short questionnaire was used to assess DRM: its prevalence, the current situation in hospitals, regulations for reimbursement, and general healthcare circumstances. Data from ESPEN's NutritionDay 2006 were used to broaden the perspective. Results: At admission in October 2012, 4068 patients were assessed. The study was performed in 160 hospitals and 225 units with 9143 beds. The highest proportions of patients with 3 or more points on the Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 were observed in Estonia (80.4%) and Turkey (39.4%), whereas the lowest were in Lithuania (14.2%). The provision of nutrition support was best in Turkey (39.4% required intervention, 34.4% received intervention) and Poland (21.9% and 27.8%, respectively). Nutrition support teams (NSTs) are active in some countries, whereas in others they virtually do not exist. Conclusion: The prevalence of malnutrition was quite high in some countries, and the nutrition approach differed among them. It could be the result of the lack of reimbursement, inactive or nonexistent NSTs, and low nutrition awareness. Those facts confirmed that the continuation of FAM activities is necessary.
Notes on the wire: ballads, biases, and borders of performance journalism
Authors: Westgate Christopher Joseph
Published: November 2013

Performance plays a lead role in the story of journalism. From the speeches of town criers to the spectacles of television comedians, the news has always relied on performers. Media scholars, however, have largely accounted for journalism’s history with a bias toward space and print at the expense of time and performance. This article argues that corridistas (balladeers) balance the spatial bias of print with the temporal bias of performance in order to preserve the historical connection between music and news. Corridos (news ballads) induce scholars and reporters to rethink the role of objectivity in journalism with methods that show more than one truth. A textual analysis of two ballads from different centuries illuminates the importance and relevance of performance journalism today.
Role of melatonin, serotonin 2B, and serotonin 2C receptors in modulating the firing activity of rat dopamine neurons
Authors: Chenu Franck , Shim Stacey , El Mansari Mostafa , Blier Pierre
Published: November 2013

Melatonin has been widely used for the management of insomnia, but is devoid of antidepressant effect in the clinic. In contrast, agomelatine which is a potent melatonin receptor agonist is an effective antidepressant. It is, however, a potent serotonin 2B (5-HT2B) and serotonin 2C (5-HT2C) receptor antagonist as well. The present study was aimed at investigating the in vivo effects of repeated administration of melatonin (40 mg/kg/day), the 5-HT2C receptor antagonist SB 242084 (0.5 mg/kg/day), the selective 5-HT2B receptor antagonist LY 266097 (0.6 mg/kg/day) and their combination on ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine (DA), locus coeruleus (LC) norepinephrine (NE), and dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) serotonin (5-HT) firing activity. Administration of melatonin twice daily increased the number of spontaneously active DA neurons but left the firing of NE neurons unaltered. Long-term administration of melatonin and SB 242084, by themselves, had no effect on the firing rate and burst parameters of 5-HT and DA neurons. Their combination, however, enhanced only the number of spontaneously active DA neurons, while leaving the firing of 5-HT neurons unchanged. The addition of LY 266097, which by itself is devoid of effect, to the previous regimen increased for DA neurons the number of bursts per minute and the percentage of spikes occurring in bursts. In conclusion, the combination of melatonin receptor activation as well as 5-HT2C receptor blockade resulted in a disinhibition of DA neurons. When 5-HT2B receptors were also blocked, the firing and the bursting activity of DA neurons were both enhanced, thus reproducing the effect of agomelatine.
Thermal buckling of piezoelectric functionally graded material deep spherical shells
Authors: Sabzikar Boroujerdy Mostafa , Eslami Mohammad Reza
Published: November 2013

Thermal instability of deep spherical shells made of functionally graded material and surface-bonded piezoelectric actuators is studied in this article. The governing equations are based on the classical shell theory and the Sanders nonlinear kinematic equations. It is assumed that the property of the functionally graded materials varies continuously through the thickness of the shell, according to a power law distribution of the volume fraction of the constituent materials. The constituent material of the functionally graded shell is assumed to be a mixture of ceramic and metal. The analytical solutions are obtained for three types of thermal loadings and constant applied actuator voltage. Results for simpler states are validated with the known data in the literature.
The Acéphalic Stage
Authors: Buse William
Published: November 2013

Social groups potentially enter an acéphalic stage in which the group ‘annihilates’ the leader as a prelude to an unmediated experience of community. Borrowed from social theorist Georges Bataille, the French term ‘acéphale’ signifies the headless, both figuratively and literally, and is invoked to accentuate the disproportionate power relations between our elevated faculties of thought and our base aptitude for sensation and feeling. The identification and discussion of this proposed stage is embellished by case examples of two groups.
Characterization and comparison of mechanical behavior of agro fiber-filled high-density polyethylene bio-composites
Authors: Ogah Anselm O , Afiukwa Joseph Nwode
Published: November 2013

The effects of four agro fibers on the mechanical properties of high-density polyethylene, particle sizes of the fibers, flexural properties, and impact properties of the composites were investigated. Their performances were compared with commonly used wood flour filler. In this research, high-density polyethylene composites filled with agro fiber at high filler content of 65 wt% were prepared. Environment-friendly, sustainable and biodegradable composites were fabricated by melt compounding and extrusion processing technology, using corn cob, rice hull, flax shive, and walnut shell flour with particle sizes distribution 0.295 mm to <0.125 mm as reinforcements for thermoplastics as an alternative to wood fiber. The influence of fiber type and high filler loading level on composite properties was investigated. Mechanical analysis showed that flexural strength, flexural modulus, and un-notched Izod impact strength increased with filler loading at the 65 wt% level for all composites, but there was little difference in both properties among the composites from various fiber types. Bulk density was measured for these agro fiber fillers in relation to wood flour, and the lowest amount was 150 kg/m3. The results of the study demonstrate that agro fiber-filled high-density polyethylene composites can be used as reinforcements for engineering value-added bio-composite materials.
A 3D micromechanical energy-based creep failure criterion for high-temperature polymer–matrix composites
Authors: Sayyidmousavi Alireza , Bougherara Habiba , Falahatgar Seyed Reza , Fawaz Zouheir
Published: November 2013

In the present study, a generalized three-dimensional (3D) energy-based criterion for the creep failure of viscoelastic materials is developed. Unlike the existing approaches which are restricted to uniaxial loading, the proposed criterion can predict failure under any combination of loads. This criterion is then incorporated into a simplified unit cell micromechanical model to predict the time-delayed failure of unidirectional polymer–matrix composites at elevated temperatures. The composite material used in this study is T300/934 which is suitable for service at high temperatures in aerospace applications. The use of micromechanics can give a more accurate insight into the failure mechanisms of the composite materials, in particular at high temperatures, where the general behavior of the polymer–matrix composite is governed by matrix viscoelasticity and matrix time-dependent failure due to creep is a localized phenomenon. The micromechanical model is also used to estimate the ultimate strength of the constituents from the knowledge of the allowable strengths of the unidirectional composite in the principal material directions. The obtained creep failure stresses are found to be in reasonable agreement with the experimental data particularly for the 90° unidirectional laminate, where failure is totally matrix dominated.
Bonded patch repairs for metallic structures – A new recommended practice
Authors: Echtermeyer Andreas T , McGeorge Dag , Grave Jon Harald L , Weitzenböck Jan
Published: November 2013

Bonded patch repairs are an efficient repair method for corroded or cracked metal structures, if welding is inconvenient. Avoiding the fire hazard of welding is a major reason for using patch repairs, but it can also be reduced distortions of the metal parts, protecting heat sensitive materials or equipment near the repair such as cables and so on. The lack of guidelines for performing such repairs has been a major hindrance for using this technology. A new recommended practice ‘Design, Fabrication, Operation and Qualification of Bonded Repair of Steel Structures’ has been published addressing: when a repair can be applied, which failure mechanisms need to be addressed, which material properties are needed, fabrication-related issues and in-service inspection. This paper will give a brief introduction to the document and its application areas.
Application countermeasures of non-incineration technologies for medical waste treatment in China
Authors: Chen Yang , Ding Qiong , Yang Xiaoling , Peng Zhengyou , Xu Diandou , Feng Qinzhong
Published: November 2013

By the end of 2012, there were 272 modern, high-standard, centralized medical waste disposal facilities operating in various cities in China. Among these facilities nearly 50% are non-incineration treatment facilities, including the technologies of high temperature steam, chemical disinfection and microwave. Each of the non-incineration technologies has its advantages and disadvantages, and any single technology cannot offer a panacea because of the complexity of medical waste disposal. Although non-incineration treatment of medical waste can avoid the release of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/dibenzofurans, it is still necessary to decide how to best meet the local waste management needs while minimizing the impact on the environment and public health. There is still a long way to go to establish the sustainable application and management mode of non-incineration technologies. Based on the analysis of typical non-incineration process, pollutant release, and the current tendency for technology application and development at home and abroad, this article recommends the application countermeasures of non-incineration technologies as the best available techniques and best environmental practices in China.
Palaeohydrological controls on sedimentary organic matter in an Amazon floodplain lake, Lake Maracá (Brazil) during the late Holocene
Authors: Moreira Luciane S , Moreira-Turcq Patricia , Turcq Bruno , Cordeiro Renato C , Kim J-H , Caquineau Sandrine , Mandeng-Yogo Magloire , Macario Kita D , Sinninghe Damsté Jaap S
Published: November 2013

In order to understand the impact of hydrological changes of the Amazon River on sedimentary organic matter (OM) composition in Amazonian floodplain lakes, three sediment cores were collected from Lake Maracá (eastern Amazonia) along a transect from the Amazon River main channel to inland. The cores were dated with 14C accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) and studied by x-ray, mineralogical composition, total organic carbon (TOC) and total nitrogen (TN) contents, stable isotopic composition of TOC and TN (δ13COC and δ15N) and glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraether (GDGT) distributions. Two distinctive sedimentary depositional phases were identified based on the mineralogical composition and the geochemical characteristics of sedimentary OM. During the early–mid Holocene (~13,000–3200 cal. yr BP), low values of TOC followed by a break in sedimentation suggest a complete drying of the lake caused by drier climatic conditions. Between 3600 and 3200 cal. yr BP, this lake received a reduced influence of the Amazon River main stem. This induced a predominant deposition of C3-plant-derived OM supplied by surface erosion and runoff of acidic soil. A distinct connection of Lake Maracá to the Amazon River began after 3200 cal. yr BP and became permanently established, with its modern characteristics, at 1880 cal. yr BP. This change provoked an increased contribution of phytoplankton and semi-aquatic C4 macrophytes as well as C3 plant derived more alkaline soil OM to the sedimentary OM pool. Consequently, our study demonstrates that the source of sedimentary OM in the Amazon floodplain lakes was strongly linked to the Amazon River hydrodynamics during the late Holocene.
Two scripts of madness
Authors: Garcia-Quiroga Juan
Published: November 2013

Objective:

The purpose of this article is to illustrate the concept of transient mental illness (TMI) as defined by Ian Hacking by way of two texts: Sybil by Flora Rhetta Schreiber and The Adventures of Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes.

Conclusions:

Psychiatric symptoms tend to follow, in varying degrees, a pre-determined script resulting from a collaborative effort between patient and therapist. They both work in a historical and cultural environment that supports and supplies the background and general lines of the script. Charcot’s hysterics and the multiple personality disorder epidemic provide good examples of this phenomenon. Most recently, the controversy around DSM5 suggests that there is growing concern that diagnostic manuals might be used as “scripts” that could lead to the creation of a string of new disorders. The concept of TMI helps explain the genesis and protean nature of psychiatric symptoms, while acknowledging the pain and disability of the sufferer.
Toward Defining the Neural Substrates of ADHD
Authors: Makris Nikos , Liang Lichen , Biederman Joseph , Valera Eve M. , Brown Ariel B. , Petty Carter , Spencer Thomas J. , Faraone Stephen V. , Seidman Larry J.
Published: November 2013

Objective: We assessed the neural correlates of adult ADHD in treatment-naïve participants, an approach necessary for identifying neural substrates unconfounded by medication effects. Method: The sample consisted of 24 medication-naïve adults with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.; DSM-IV) diagnosed ADHD and 24 healthy controls, comparable on age, sex, handedness, reading achievement, IQ, and psychiatric comorbidity. All participants were assessed with structured diagnostic interviews. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based regional voxel-based morphometry (r-VBM) was used to assess volumetric differences in a priori defined brain regions of interest. Results: VBM analysis revealed group differences in the hypothesized cortical and subcortical areas; however, only cerebellar volume reductions in ADHD retained significance ( p < .05) after corrections for multiple comparisons. Conclusion: These results support the notion that medication-naïve ADHD as expressed in adulthood, manifests subtle brain volume reductions from normal in the cerebellum, and possibly in other syndrome-congruent gray-matter structures. Larger samples are required to confirm these findings.
Primary aortoduodenal fistula and Q-fever
Authors: Sigterman Tim A , Bendermacher Bianca LW , Welten Rob JThJ , Krasznai Attila , Bouwman Lee H
Published: November 2013

Patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) are prone to vascular infection with chronic Q-fever. There is a rising incidence of up to 8% of chronic Q-fever in The Netherlands. Increased vascular aortic aneurysm infection with chronic Q-fever is reported. This report shows two rare cases of primary aortoduodenal fistulae in patients with chronic Q-fever and an AAA. We describe the clinical symptoms, diagnostic tools for detection of Coxiella burnetii infection and treatment.
Determining information for inclusion in a decision-support intervention for clinical trial participation: A modified Delphi approach
Authors: Gillies Katie , Skea Zoë C , MacLennan Sara J , Ramsay Craig R , Campbell Marion K
Published: November 2013

Background

The use of decision-support interventions in the context of decisions about trial participation is an emergent field. There is a lack of evidence about what information is deemed important to support decisions about informed consent for clinical trials, and whether different groups agree on the information for inclusion.

Purpose

The overall objective was to determine the items which different stakeholder groups viewed to be important for inclusion in a decision-support tool when making decisions about clinical trial participation, with a view to use these as a framework for developing decision-support tools in this context. This is the first study to have addressed this issue.

Methods

A modified Delphi method was used to determine agreement on importance of items. The ‘stakeholder’ panel was made up of 49 individuals from 5 groups: 11 trialists, 6 research nurses, 7 ethics committee chairs, 9 decision-support experts, and 16 patients (9 trial experienced and 7 trial non-experienced). Two rounds of rating were completed. Items with a median of 7–10 with ≥65% of any one group (from aggregate ratings) in agreement were considered important for inclusion.

Results

The stakeholder panel achieved consensus on the majority of items included (60/66), agreeing that these were important for inclusion in a decision-support tool for trial participation. These included items covering information about trial participation and standard care, information on the likelihood of receiving different treatments, information to help patients determine what matters most to them, ensuring that the information is balanced, guidance on how to make a decision, disclosure of any conflicts of interest, using plain language in the tool, and guidance on the decision-support development process. Some areas of divergence among the panel were also identified relating to the use of patient stories.

Limitations

Selection bias may be a limitation in this study due to the manner in which the participants were invited to take part, and therefore, the representativeness, and reproducibility with another group of stakeholders, may differ.

Conclusions

Agreement was obtained on a number of items, which we recommend should be used as a framework to develop useful tools to support decision-making about participation in clinical trials.
Looking Forward
Authors: Forgatch Marion S. , Patterson Gerald R. , Gewirtz Abigail H.
Published: November 2013

Over the past quarter century, researchers have developed a body of parent training programs that have proven effective in reducing child behavior problems, but few of these have made their way into routine practice. This article describes the long and winding road of implementation as applied to children’s mental health. Adopting Rogers’ (1995) diffusion framework and Fixsen and colleagues’ implementation framework (Fixsen, Naoom, Blase, Friedman, & Wallace, 2005), we review more than a decade of research on the implementation of Parent Management Training—Oregon Model (PMTO). Data from U.S. and international PMTO implementations are used to illustrate the payoffs and the challenges of making empirically supported interventions routine practice in the community. Technological advances that break down barriers to communication across distances, the availability of efficacious programs suitable for implementation, and the urgent need for high quality mental health care provide strong rationales for prioritizing implementation. Over the next quarter of a century, the challenge is to reduce the prevalence of children’s psychopathology by creating science-based delivery systems to reach families in need, everywhere.
Regulatory Flexibility
Authors: Bonanno George A. , Burton Charles L.
Published: November 2013

People respond to stressful events in different ways, depending on the event and on the regulatory strategies they choose. Coping and emotion regulation theorists have proposed dynamic models in which these two factors, the person and the situation, interact over time to inform adaptation. In practice, however, researchers have tended to assume that particular regulatory strategies are consistently beneficial or maladaptive. We label this assumption the fallacy of uniform efficacy and contrast it with findings from a number of related literatures that have suggested the emergence of a broader but as yet poorly defined construct that we refer to as regulatory flexibility. In this review, we articulate this broader construct and define both its features and limitations. Specifically, we propose a heuristic individual differences framework and review research on three sequential components of flexibility for which propensities and abilities vary: sensitivity to context, availability of a diverse repertoire of regulatory strategies, and responsiveness to feedback. We consider the methodological limitations of research on each component, review questions that future research on flexibility might address, and consider how the components might relate to each other and to broader conceptualizations about stability and change across persons and situations.
Autism and Dyslexia
Authors: Frith Uta
Published: November 2013

Autism and dyslexia are wrongly classified as childhood disorders: They are lifelong and therefore have to be studied in adults as well as in children. Individual variability is enormous, and, as a result, behavioral diagnosis remains problematic. The study of the underlying cognitive abilities in autism and dyslexia has acted as a gateway for the emergence of developmental cognitive neuroscience.