bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Moderating Role of Cognitive Capacities in the Association Between Social Norms and Drinking Behaviors
Authors: Meisel Samuel N. , Colder Craig R. , Hawk Larry W.
Published: May 2015

Background

The literature documents 2 related yet distinct social normative influences on adolescent drinking. Descriptive norms refer to perceptions of how much others engage in a particular behavior, whereas injunctive norms refer to the extent to which others approve of a particular behavior. Theoretical formulations suggest that whether descriptive or injunctive norms guide drinking behavior depends on cognitive factors related to executive functioning. Cognitive capacities, specifically inhibitory control (IC) and preplanning, were tested as moderators of the association between social norms and alcohol use using a longitudinal design and community sample of adolescents.

Methods

This longitudinal study included 387 adolescents and 3 annual waves of data. Behavioral tasks assessed IC (Stop Signal Task) and preplanning (Tower of London) and social norms and drinking were assessed using self‐report measures.

Results

Significant interactions were found for descriptive and injunctive norms with preplanning and descriptive norms with IC. As hypothesized, descriptive norms were stronger prospective predictors of alcohol use at low levels of cognitive preplanning, whereas injunctive norms were stronger prospective predictors at high levels of cognitive preplanning. Descriptive norms prospectively predicted alcohol use at high, but not at low levels of IC.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the complexity of normative influences and suggest that descriptive and injunctive norms have differential effects on future drinking for individuals with different cognitive capacities.
Role Transitions and Young Adult Maturing Out of Heavy Drinking: Evidence for Larger Effects of Marriage Among More Severe Premarriage Problem Drinkers
Authors: Lee Matthew R. , Chassin Laurie , MacKinnon David P.
Published: May 2015

Background

Research has shown a developmental process of “maturing out” of problem drinking beginning in young adulthood. Perhaps surprisingly, past studies suggest that young adult drinking reductions may be particularly pronounced among those exhibiting relatively severe forms of problem drinking earlier in emerging adulthood. This may occur because more severe problem drinkers experience stronger ameliorative effects of normative young adult role transitions like marriage.

Methods

The hypothesis of stronger marriage effects among more severe problem drinkers was tested using 3 waves of data from a large ongoing study of familial alcohol disorder (N = 844; 51% children of alcoholics).

Results

Longitudinal growth models characterized (i) the curvilinear trajectory of drinking quantity from ages 17 to 40, (ii) effects of marriage on altering this age‐related trajectory, and (iii) moderation of this effect by premarriage problem drinking levels (alcohol consequences and dependence symptoms). Results confirmed the hypothesis that protective marriage effects on drinking quantity trajectories would be stronger among more severe premarriage problem drinkers. Supplemental analyses showed that results were robust to alternative construct operationalizations and modeling approaches.

Conclusions

Consistent with role incompatibility theory, findings support the view of role conflict as a key mechanism of role‐driven behavior change, as greater problem drinking likely conflicts more with demands of roles like marriage. This is also consistent with the developmental psychopathology view of transitions and turning points. Role transitions among already low‐severity drinkers may merely represent developmental continuity of a low‐risk trajectory, whereas role transitions among higher‐severity problem drinkers may represent developmentally discontinuous “turning points” that divert individuals from a higher‐ to a lower‐risk trajectory. Practically, findings support the clinical relevance of role‐related “maturing out processes” by suggesting that they often reflect natural recovery from clinically significant problem drinking. Thus, understanding these processes could help clarify the nature of pathological drinking and inform interventions.
Computer‐Delivered Screening and Brief Intervention for Alcohol Use in Pregnancy: A Pilot Randomized Trial
Authors: Ondersma Steven J. , Beatty Jessica R. , Svikis Dace S. , Strickler Ronald C. , Tzilos Golfo K. , Chang Grace , Divine George W. , Taylor Andrew R. , Sokol Robert J.
Published: May 2015

Background

Although screening and brief intervention (SBI) for unhealthy alcohol use has demonstrated efficacy in some trials, its implementation has been limited. Technology‐delivered approaches are a promising alternative, particularly during pregnancy when the importance of alcohol use is amplified. The present trial evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of an interactive, empathic, video‐enhanced, and computer‐delivered SBI (e‐SBI) plus 3 tailored mailings, and estimated intervention effects.

Methods

We recruited 48 pregnant women who screened positive for alcohol risk at an urban prenatal care clinic. Participants were randomly assigned to the e‐SBI plus mailings or to a control session on infant nutrition, and were re‐evaluated during their postpartum hospitalization. The primary outcome was 90‐day period prevalence abstinence as measured by timeline follow‐back interview.

Results

Participants rated the intervention as easy to use and helpful (4.7 to 5.0 on a 5‐point scale). Blinded follow‐up evaluation at childbirth revealed medium‐size intervention effects on 90‐day period prevalence abstinence (OR = 3.4); similarly, intervention effects on a combined healthy pregnancy outcome variable (live birth, normal birthweight, and no neonatal intensive care unit stay) were also of moderate magnitude in favor of e‐SBI participants (OR = 3.3). As expected in this intentionally underpowered pilot trial, these effects were nonsignificant (p = 0.19 and 0.09, respectively).

Conclusions

This pilot trial demonstrated the acceptability and preliminary efficacy of e‐SBI plus tailored mailings for alcohol use in pregnancy. These findings mirror the promising results of other trials using a similar approach and should be confirmed in a fully powered trial.
Advances in nicotine research in Addiction Biology
Authors: Bernardi Rick E.
Published: May 2015

The aim of Addiction Biology is to advance our understanding of the action of drugs of abuse and addictive processes via the publication of high‐impact clinical and pre‐clinical findings resulting from behavioral, molecular, genetic, biochemical, neurobiological and pharmacological research. As of 2013, Addiction Biology is ranked number 1 in the category of Substance Abuse journals (SCI). Occasionally, Addiction Biology likes to highlight via review important findings focused on a particular topic and recently published in the journal. The current review summarizes a number of key publications from Addiction Biology that have contributed to the current knowledge of nicotine research, comprising a wide spectrum of approaches, both clinical and pre‐clinical, at the cellular, molecular, systems and behavioral levels. A number of findings from human studies have identified, using imaging techniques, alterations in common brain circuits, as well as morphological and network activity changes, associated with tobacco use. Furthermore, both clinical and pre‐clinical studies have characterized a number of mechanistic targets critical to understanding the effects of nicotine and tobacco addiction. Together, these findings will undoubtedly drive future studies examining the dramatic impact of tobacco use and the development of treatments to counter nicotine dependence.
Trans‐Ethnic Meta‐Analysis Identifies Common and Rare Variants Associated with Hepatocyte Growth Factor Levels in the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)
Authors: Larson Nicholas B. , Berardi Cecilia , Decker Paul A. , Wassel Christina L. , Kirsch Phillip S. , Pankow James S. , Sale Michele M. , de Andrade Mariza , Sicotte Hugues , Tang Weihong , Hanson Naomi Q. , Tsai Michael Y. , Taylor Kent D. , Bielinski Suzette J.
Published: May 2015

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a mesenchyme‐derived pleiotropic factor that regulates cell growth, motility, mitogenesis, and morphogenesis in a variety of cells, and increased serum levels of HGF have been linked to a number of clinical and subclinical cardiovascular disease phenotypes. However, little is currently known regarding which genetic factors influence HGF levels, despite evidence of substantial genetic contributions to HGF variation. Based upon ethnicity‐stratified single‐variant association analysis and trans‐ethnic meta‐analysis of 6201 participants of the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA), we discovered five statistically significant common and low‐frequency variants: HGF missense polymorphism rs5745687 (p.E299K) as well as four variants (rs16844364, rs4690098, rs114303452, rs3748034) within or in proximity to HGFAC. We also identified two significant ethnicity‐specific gene‐level associations (A1BG in African Americans; FASN in Chinese Americans) based upon low‐frequency/rare variants, while meta‐analysis of gene‐level results identified a significant association for HGFAC. However, identified single‐variant associations explained modest proportions of the total trait variation and were not significantly associated with coronary artery calcium or coronary heart disease. Our findings indicate that genetic factors influencing circulating HGF levels may be complex and ethnically diverse.
Bacterial vaccines in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: effects on clinical outcomes and cytokine levels
Authors: Ruso Salvador , Marco Francisco M. , Martínez‐Carbonell Juan A. , Carratalá José A.
Published: May 2015

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Exacerbation episodes impair lung function leading to disease progression. Levels of inflammation markers correlate with disease severity. Bacterial immunomodulators have shown a beneficial effect in COPD, improving symptoms and reducing the rate of exacerbations. This is an observational prospective study on 30 patients diagnosed with bronchiectasis and COPD, who received bacterial autogenous vaccine for 12 months. The rate of exacerbation, severity of symptoms and lung function were studied at baseline and after treatment. In addition, plasma levels CRP, IL6, IL8, and TNFα were measured. After treatment we found a reduction in mean acute respiratory infections and signs of lung disease. Acute phase proteins IL6 and CRP increased in blood and IL8 decreased. These changes may be related to the repeated injection of inactivated bacteria. Given the implication of these factors in the pathogenesis of COPD, particularly the production of IL8, the causes and consequences of cytokine modulation by bacterial vaccines should be investigated. Vaccination with autogenous vaccines for 1 year can produce a significant clinical improvement in COPD patients, reducing the frequency of exacerbations associated to changes in the profile of markers of inflammation.
Detection of Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis in infertile Bulgarian men with multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Ouzounova‐Raykova Vessela , Rangelov Simeon , Ouzounova Iordanka , Mitov Ivan
Published: May 2015

The effect of Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis over the sperm quality is still unclear. The aim of this study was to determine their prevalence in infertile Bulgarian men. A total of 281 men were examined by applying mRT‐PCR. The registered prevalence was as follows: C. trachomatis – 13.9%, U. urealyticum – 19.2%, M. hominis – 9.9%. Co‐infection was established in eight swabs. This first in Bulgaria to study for detection of chlamydia and mycoplasmas in infertile men by mRT‐PCR demonstrates higher prevalence of the tested microorganisms in the infertile group toward the control one.
A clinicopathological analysis of KISS1 and KISS1R expression in colorectal cancer
Authors: Kostakis Ioannis D. , Agrogiannis George , Vaiopoulos Aristeidis G. , Mylona Eleni , Patsouris Efstratios , Kouraklis Gregory , Koutsilieris Michael
Published: May 2015

Kisspeptins, the products of the KISS1 gene have tumor suppressing and antimetastatic properties. We aimed to study KISS1 and KISS1R expression in colorectal cancer. We analyzed KISS1 and KISS1R expression using immunohistochemistry and image analysis in normal and malignant tissue samples from 111 patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma. KISS1 expression was much higher in the normal than in the malignant colonic mucosa. Regarding malignant tissues, KISS1 levels were higher in larger tumors, in stage III and IV cancers, in cancers with lymph node metastasis and in tumors located in the distal part of the large intestine. Patients with greater KISS1 levels had worse prognosis. No KISS1R expression was detected in normal or malignant tissues or in liver metastases. KISS1 expression is reduced during the malignant transformation of the colonic mucosa. However, larger and advanced colorectal cancers express more KISS1, without reaching the former normal levels, and increased KISS1 levels are associated with worse prognosis. Finally, neither the normal nor the malignant colonic epithelial cells produce KISS1R.
Free availability of high‐energy foods led to energy over‐ingestion and protein under‐ingestion in choice‐fed broilers
Authors: Catanese Francisco , Rodriguez Ganduglia Héctor , Villalba Juan J. , Distel Roberto A.
Published: May 2015

The objective of this study was to compare energy and protein content of the diet selected by choice‐fed broilers with that of broilers fed a balanced diet. One hundred and eighty 1‐day‐old male broilers were randomly assigned in groups of 10 to one of three experimental treatments (n = 6). Control broilers were fed a standard balanced diet, whereas choice‐fed broilers were fed three foods which were more concentrated (Choice C+ treatment) or less concentrated (Choice C– treatment) in protein, carbohydrate or fat. We evaluated food intake behavior, nutrient intake, and performance parameters of broilers from 2 to 7 weeks of age. Choice C+ broilers showed enhanced preference for the high‐fat food, which led to higher energy intake and lower protein intake than those of control broilers at 2 to 4 weeks of age. Body weight, weight gain and feed conversion efficiency were negatively affected by diet selection of Choice C+ broilers. Choice C– broilers selected a balanced diet, and showed performance parameters similar to those of control broilers. Our results supported the hypothesis that free availability of high‐energy foods bias ingestive behavior of choice‐fed broilers toward selecting a diet with higher energy and lower protein than needed for normal growth.
Continuous versus group sequential analysis for post‐market drug and vaccine safety surveillance
Authors: Silva I. R. , Kulldorff M.
Published: May 2015

The use of sequential statistical analysis for post‐market drug safety surveillance is quickly emerging. Both continuous and group sequential analysis have been used, but consensus is lacking as to when to use which approach. We compare the statistical performance of continuous and group sequential analysis in terms of type I error probability; statistical power; expected time to signal when the null hypothesis is rejected; and the sample size required to end surveillance without rejecting the null. We present a mathematical proposition to show that for any group sequential design there always exists a continuous sequential design that is uniformly better. As a consequence, it is shown that more frequent testing is always better. Additionally, for a Poisson based probability model and a flat rejection boundary in terms of the log likelihood ratio, we compare the performance of various continuous and group sequential designs. Using exact calculations, we found that, for the parameter settings used, there is always a continuous design with shorter expected time to signal than the best group design. The two key conclusions from this article are (i) that any post‐market safety surveillance system should attempt to obtain data as frequently as possible, and (ii) that sequential testing should always be performed when new data arrives without deliberately waiting for additional data.
Children's Temperament and Academic Skill Development During First Grade: Teachers' Interaction Styles as Mediators
Authors: Viljaranta Jaana , Aunola Kaisa , Mullola Sari , Virkkala Johanna , Hirvonen Riikka , Pakarinen Eija , Nurmi Jari‐Erik
Published: May 2015

The present study followed 156 Finnish children (Mage = 7.25 years) during the first grade of primary school to examine to what extent parent‐ and teacher‐rated temperament impacts children's math and reading skill development during the first grade, and the extent to which this impact would be mediated by teachers' interaction styles with the children. The results showed that the impact of children's low task orientation and negative emotionality on their math skill development was mediated via teachers' behavioral control and, among girls, also by psychological control. The negative impact of children's inhibition on math skill development, in turn, was not mediated via teachers' interaction styles. Temperament did not predict the children's reading skill development during first grade.
Cough during infancy and subsequent childhood asthma
Authors: Oren E. , Rothers J. , Stern D. A. , Morgan W. J. , Halonen M. , Wright A. L.
Published: May 2015

Objectives

Wheezing in infancy has been associated with subsequent asthma, but whether cough similarly influences asthma risk has been little studied. We sought to determine whether prolonged cough and cough without cold in the first year of life are associated with childhood asthma.

Methods

Participants in the Infant Immune Study, a non‐selected birth cohort, were surveyed 7 times in the first 9 months of life regarding the presence of wheeze and cough. Cough for more than 28 days was defined as prolonged. Parents were asked at 1 year if the child ever coughed without a cold. Asthma was defined as parental report of physician diagnosis of asthma, with symptoms or medication use between 2 and 9 years. Logistic regression was used to assess adjusted odds for asthma associated with cough characteristics.

Results

A total of 24% (97) of children experienced prolonged cough and 23% (95) cough without cold in the first 9 months, respectively. Prolonged cough was associated with increased risk of asthma relative to brief cough (OR 3.57, CI: 1.88, 6.76), with the risk being particularly high among children of asthmatic mothers. Cough without cold (OR 3.13, 95% CI: 1.76, 5.57) was also independently associated with risk of childhood asthma. Both relations persisted after adjustment for wheeze and total IgE at age 1.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Prolonged cough in infancy and cough without cold are associated with childhood asthma, independent of infant wheeze. These findings suggest that characteristics of cough in infancy are early markers of asthma susceptibility, particularly among children with maternal asthma.
Cranio‐facial clefts in pre‐hispanic America
Authors: Marius‐Nunez A. L. , Wasiak D. T.
Published: May 2015

Among the representations of congenital malformations in Moche ceramic art, cranio‐facial clefts have been portrayed in pottery found in Moche burials. These pottery vessels were used as domestic items during lifetime and funerary offerings upon death. The aim of this study was to examine archeological evidence for representations of cranio‐facial cleft malformations in Moche vessels. Pottery depicting malformations of the midface in Moche collections in Lima‐Peru were studied. The malformations portrayed on pottery were analyzed using the Tessier classification. Photographs were authorized by the Larco Museo.Three vessels were observed to have median cranio‐facial dysraphia in association with midline cleft of the lower lip with cleft of the mandible. ML001489 portrays a median cranio‐facial dysraphia with an orbital cleft and a midline cleft of the lower lip extending to the mandible. ML001514 represents a median facial dysraphia in association with an orbital facial cleft and a vertical orbital dystopia. ML001491 illustrates a median facial cleft with a soft tissue cleft. Three cases of midline, orbital and lateral facial clefts have been portrayed in Moche full‐figure portrait vessels. They represent the earliest registries of congenital cranio‐facial malformations in ancient Peru.
Frequent incidence of BARD1‐truncating mutations in germline DNA from triple‐negative breast cancer patients
Authors: De Brakeleer S. , De Grève J. , Desmedt C. , Joris S. , Sotiriou C. , Piccart M. , Pauwels I. , Teugels E.
Published: May 2015

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for 10–20% of all breast cancers (BCs), and conventional chemotherapy is the only effective systemic treatment. Germline BRCA1/2 mutations are found in approximately 15% of TNBC patients. In the past, we have documented pathogenic mutations in BARD1, a BRCA1 interacting protein, in families at high risk for BC. In this study, we have analyzed germline DNA from 61 estrogen receptor negative patients (of which 42 were TNBC) for the presence of mutations in the BRCA1, BRCA2 and BARD1 gene. BRCA1/2 mutations were found in 8 out of 42 (19%) TNBC patients, but not in the ER−/HER2+ cohort. We also found four good candidate pathogenic BARD1 mutations in the TNBC cohort, including two protein‐truncating mutations (p.Gln564Ter and p.Arg641Ter). Our data suggest that TNBC patients are enriched for pathogenic BARD1 germline mutations as compared to control samples and high BC risk families. Ten of the 42 investigated TNBC patients carry a BRCA pathway mutation (in BRCA1, BRCA2 or BARD1) rendering them susceptible to homologous recombination deficiency. These patients should become eligible for exploring the efficacy of poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors.
Beyond the Business Case: The Need for Both Utility and Justice Rationales for Increasing the Share of Women on Boards
Authors: Seierstad Cathrine
Published: May 2015

Manuscript type

Empirical

Research Question

In the context of the recent introduction of gender representation regulations (quotas) for boards in public limited companies (PLCs) in Norway, this article explores how gender quotas designed to increase the share of women in senior positions are rationalized and/or justified by those who benefit, and asks: what arguments do the beneficiaries of quotas tend to use when discussing their usefulness?

Research Findings/Insights

Drawing on qualitative interview data from 19 female non‐executive board members, the article illustrates how women draw on utility, mainly the “business case,” and individual justice arguments both in support of quotas and to justify their use in helping women attain board positions. Further, it highlights how issues of merit and of gender are entangled with these arguments in often contradictory ways. In so doing, the article challenges and complicates some of the key critiques of gender quotas often found in the public and academic debates.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

This article advances theory around the intersection of justice and utility arguments in relation to the use of quotas to increase diversity on boards. Moreover, this article provides empirical support by demonstrating how “the first wave” of women affected by quotas are legitimizing their role on boards in a context in which their role is in question. In addition, this article advances the literature regarding women on boards by demonstrating the need for a discourse about political strategies, such as quotas on boards, that goes beyond the narrow understanding of the business case that has until now dominated public, political, and academic debates. In particular, this article argues for the need to build on both utility and justice logic when making a case for increasing the share of women on boards.

Practical Implications

With the current focus on how to increase diversity and the share of women on boards, this study highlights the importance of regulation as well as the importance of reframing the debate using utility and justice lines of arguments rationalized by merit arguments.
What would Batman do? Self‐distancing improves executive function in young children
Authors: White Rachel E. , Carlson Stephanie M.
Published: May 2015

This experimental research assessed the influence of graded levels of self‐distancing – psychological distancing from one's egocentric perspective – on executive function (EF) in young children. Three‐ (n = 48) and 5‐year‐old (n = 48) children were randomly assigned to one of four manipulations of distance from the self (from proximal to distal: self‐immersed, control, third person, and exemplar) on a comprehensive measure of EF. Performance increased as a function of self‐distancing across age groups. Follow‐up analyses indicated that 5‐year‐olds were driving this effect. They showed significant improvements in EF with increased distance from the self, outperforming controls both when taking a third person perspective on the self and when taking the perspective of an exemplar other (e.g., Batman) through role play. Three‐year‐olds, however, did not show increased EF performance as a function of greater distance from the self. Preliminary results suggest that developments in theory of mind might contribute to these age‐related differences in efficacy. These findings speak to the importance of psychological distancing in the expression of conscious control over thought and action from a young age and suggest a promising new avenue for early EF intervention.
Cardiac Tamponade on the Edge
Authors: Krishnasamy Kavita P. , Frazin Leon J. , Kansal Mayank
Published: May 2015

Mini‐Abstract

Low‐pressure cardiac tamponade is an uncommon phenomenon in the spectrum of pericardial diseases. We describe a case of a 37‐year‐old man with recurring admissions for dyspnea whose clinical picture challenged the classic exhibition of cardiac tamponade.
Ratio of Acceleration Time to Ejection Time for Assessing Aortic Stenosis Severity
Authors: Gamaza‐Chulián Sergio , Camacho‐Freire Santiago , Toro‐Cebada Rocío , Giráldez‐Valpuesta Alberto , Benezet‐Mazuecos Javier , Vargas‐Machuca José Carlos
Published: May 2015

Background

Inconsistencies in the grading of aortic valve stenosis are frequent (24–38%). Guidelines highlight the waveform shape when discrepancies are present. Our aim was to evaluate the severity of aortic stenosis by the ratio of acceleration time to ejection time (AT/ET).

Methods

Between January 2011 and January 2013, patients with at least moderate aortic stenosis (valve area < 1.5 cm2) evaluated in our echocardiography laboratory were enrolled. Clinical data were recorded including symptoms attributable to aortic stenosis. Quantitative echocardiographic Doppler parameters as ejection dynamics (ejection time and acceleration time) and conventional parameters, and usual laboratory test including natriuretic peptides (NT‐proBNP) were analyzed.

Results

One hundred eight patients with aortic valve stenosis were recruited (mean age 77 ± 7 years; 57% women). Comorbidity of the patients was frequent: 85% hypertension, 59% diabetes, 31% chronic renal failure, 26% smokers, mean body mass index 30.0 ± 6.6 kg/m2. Ninety‐six patients (90%) were symptomatic at the index visit. Using a cutoff of 0.35, AT/ET had a sensitivity of 77% and a specificity of 100% to discriminate symptomatic patients. Serum value of NT‐proBNP was higher in patients with AT/ET > 0.35 (9885 ± 3111 vs. 2600 ± 1175, P < 0.001). This ratio showed a good correlation with indexed left ventricle mass (r = 0.60, P < 0.001), DVI (r = −0.56, P < 0.001), and AVA (r = −0.49, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Ejection dynamics through aortic valve, particularly AT/ET ratio, is a useful tool for assessing aortic stenosis severity, with a good correlation with flow‐independent parameters in aortic stenosis.
Procyclicality and Path Dependence of Sovereign Credit Ratings: The Example of Europe
Authors: Freitag Lennart
Published: May 2015

This paper investigates empirically the behavior of Credit Rating Agencies (CRAs) when assessing sovereign solvency for European countries. Using probit regressions, I find that even after controlling for macroeconomic factors, CRAs take the business cycle into account. Also, there is a clear case of path dependence in sovereign ratings. Additionally, it turns out that there seems to be a discrepancy between upgrades and downgrades. These results are robust to a number of different specifications.
Factors related to self‐reported social anxiety symptoms among incoming university students
Authors: Cheng Shu Hui , Sun Zih‐Jie , Lee I Hui , Lee Chih‐Ting , Chen Kao Chin , Tsai Chung Hung , Yang Yen Kuang , Yang Yi Ching
Published: May 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the lifestyle/social, personality trait and mental factors among incoming university students with higher self‐reported social anxiety symptoms (SAS).

Methods

A total of 5126 incoming university students were recruited. The test battery included a self‐administered questionnaire that examined personal lifestyle, the Measurement of Support Functions, the Chinese Internet Addiction Scale‐Revision, the Organizational Citizenship Behaviour Scale, the Social Phobia Inventory, the suicide ideation from the Brief Symptoms Rating Scale and the Pittsburgh Sleep Questionnaire.

Results

SAS (23.7%) were prevalent. Using logistic regression analysis, we found that the significant predictors of higher levels of SAS were being an undergraduate student and a non‐smoker, having lower Measurement of Support Functions score (poorer social support), having higher Chinese Internet Addiction Scale‐Revision score (Internet addiction), having lower Organizational Citizenship Behaviour Scale score (less altruistic behaviour), having suicide ideation and having higher Pittsburgh Sleep Questionnaire score (poorer sleeper).

Conclusions

Given the high prevalence of SAS among university students, it is necessary to build a better strategy to detect students with potential social anxiety‐related problems/disorders or other mental problems early on.
Understanding access and use of technology among youth with first‐episode psychosis to inform the development of technology‐enabled therapeutic interventions
Authors: Abdel‐Baki Amal , Lal Shalini , D.‐Charron Olivier , Stip Emmanuel , Kara Nadjia
Published: May 2015

Aim

Computers, video games and technological devices are part of young people's everyday lives. However, their use in first‐episode psychosis (FEP) treatment is rare. The purpose of this study was to better understand the access and use of technology among individuals with FEP, including gaming activities, to inform future development of technology‐enabled therapeutic applications.

Methods

Self‐administered survey on use of technological tools in 71 FEP individuals.

Results

PCs/laptops were used by all participants; cellphones/smartphones by 92%, consoles by 83% (mainly male and younger participants). Women texted and used social networks more frequently; men played games (mainly action) more often. The younger individuals reported playing games frequently (32% daily) with less use of the Web and social networks (favourite: Facebook).

Conclusions

These data will be useful for developing Web‐based psychoeducation tools and cognitive remediation video games for youth with FEP.
A variable number of tandem repeats in the 3′‐untranslated region of the dopamine transporter modulates striatal function during working memory updating across the adult age span
Authors: Sambataro Fabio , Podell Jamie E. , Murty Vishnu P. , Das Saumitra , Kolachana Bhaskar , Goldberg Terry E. , Weinberger Daniel R. , Mattay Venkata S.
Published: May 2015

Dopamine modulation of striatal function is critical for executive functions such as working memory (WM) updating. The dopamine transporter (DAT) regulates striatal dopamine signaling via synaptic reuptake. A variable number of tandem repeats in the 3′‐untranslated region of SLC6A3 (DAT1‐3′‐UTR‐VNTR) is associated with DAT expression, such that 9‐repeat allele carriers tend to express lower levels (associated with higher extracellular dopamine concentrations) than 10‐repeat homozygotes. Aging is also associated with decline of the dopamine system. The goal of the present study was to investigate the effects of aging and DAT1‐3′‐UTR‐VNTR on the neural activity and functional connectivity of the striatum during WM updating. Our results showed both an age‐related decrease in striatal activity and an effect of DAT1‐3′‐UTR‐VNTR. Ten‐repeat homozygotes showed reduced striatal activity and increased striatal–hippocampal connectivity during WM updating relative to the 9‐repeat carriers. There was no age by DAT1‐3′‐UTR‐VNTR interaction. These results suggest that, whereas striatal function during WM updating is modulated by both age and genetically determined DAT levels, the rate of the age‐related decline in striatal function is similar across both DAT1‐3′‐UTR‐VNTR genotype groups. They further suggest that, because of the baseline difference in striatal function based on DAT1‐3′‐UTR‐VNTR polymorphism, 10‐repeat homozygotes, who have lower levels of striatal function throughout the adult life span, may reach a threshold of decreased striatal function and manifest impairments in cognitive processes mediated by the striatum earlier in life than the 9‐repeat carriers. Our data suggest that age and DAT1‐3′‐UTR‐VNTR polymorphism independently modulate striatal function.
Thylacocephalans
Authors: Broda Krzysztof , Hegna Thomas A. , Zatoń Michał
Published: May 2015

Thylacocephalans are an extinct group of arthropods of an uncertain systematic position. Originally considered phyllocarid crustaceans, they have since been classified within their own class, the Thylacocephala Pinna, Arduini, Pesarini and Teruzzi, 1982 on the basis of the exceptionally preserved Lower Jurassic (Sinemurian) species Ostenocaris cypriformis from Osteno, Italy. Since that time, the membership of the Thylacocephala has grown as a number of new species have been discovered, as well as previously known species moved into the group.
'Success Is Satisfaction with What You Have'? Biographical Work–Life Balance of Older Female Employees in Public Administration
Authors: Schilling Elisabeth
Published: May 2015

This paper analyses the situation of older female employees in the public service sector in Germany, comparing women with middle‐level qualifications to highly‐qualified women in order to explore the intersection of age, qualification and work–life trajectories. The paper theorizes on the notion of work–life balance as experienced across the life course, supporting a holistic and long‐term focus. In particular two questions are emphasized: What does a 'work–life balance' mean in the biography of older female employees; and how do they balance the different areas of their lives? To explore these further, the concept of 'biographical work–life balance' is introduced. This concept embraces a holistic perspective, which is particularly important for the wellbeing of older workers. The paper aims to show the effect of different social discourses, working biographies and policies on perceived work–life balance over the entire life course based on data from narrative biographical interviews with older female employees in the public service sector in Germany.
Depressive symptom severity, contributing factors, and self‐management among chronic dialysis patients
Authors: Song Mi‐Kyung , Ward Sandra E. , Hladik Gerald A. , Bridgman Jessica C. , Gilet Constance A.
Published: May 2015

Abstract

Despite the high prevalence of depressive symptoms in patients receiving chronic dialysis, there has been inadequate attention to patient‐related barriers to management of depressive symptoms, such as factors identified by these patients as contributing to their symptoms, and how they responded to the symptoms. Participants (N = 210) in an ongoing longitudinal observational study of multidimensional quality of life in patients receiving chronic dialysis completed a battery of measures monthly for 12 months. For each patient at each measurement point, an event report was generated if he or she scored outside of the normal range on the depressive symptom scale (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale‐Short Form [CESD‐SF] ≥10) or expressed suicidal ideation. Of the 210 participants, 100 (47.6%) had a CESD‐SF score ≥10 at least once resulting in 290 event reports. Of these 100 participants, 15 (15%) had also reported suicidal ideation in addition to having depressive symptoms. The most frequently stated contributing factors included “managing comorbid conditions and complications” (56 event reports, 19.3%), “being on dialysis” (50, 17.2%), “family or other personal issues” (37, 12.8%), and “financial difficulties” (31, 10.7%). On 11 event reports (3.8%) participants had been unaware of their depressive symptoms. On 119 event reports (41%) participants reported that they discussed these symptoms with their dialysis care providers or primary care providers, while on 171 event reports (59%) symptoms were not discussed with their health‐care providers. The prevalence of depressive symptoms is high and many patients lack knowledge about effective self‐management strategies.
Burden and coping strategies among Jordanian caregivers of patients undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Alnazly Eman Khamis
Published: May 2015

Recent studies reported hemodialysis patients' sufferings from physical and psychosocial issues, but few studies reported family–caregiver burdens. This study aims to explore the burdens and coping strategies of caregivers of patients receiving hemodialysis. Caregivers of patients undergoing hemodialysis (n = 139) at 3 dialysis units were given 3 forms: Caregiver and Patient Characteristics, Oberst Caregiving Burden Scale Difficulty Subscale, and Ways of Coping Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, correlational analysis, and multiple regression analysis were performed. The Oberst Caregiving Burden Scale was significantly related to self‐controlling (r = 0.20) and seeking social support (r = 0.17). Caregiver burden was positively and significantly correlated with self‐controlling coping subscale, with t = 1.10, P = 0.05, and β = 0.25. Living with the patient was the only variable that was a significant predictor of burden, with t = 2.96, P = 0.00, and β = 0.331. Living with patients predicted caregiver burden, and the burden scale correlated with self‐controlling. The findings contribute to the evidence on the adverse health effects of caregivers of patients receiving hemodialysis. This study suggests that nursing interventions should target caregiver knowledge for better coping.
HyFlex EDM: superficial features, metallurgical analysis and fatigue resistance of innovative electro discharge machined NiTi rotary instruments
Authors: Pirani C. , Iacono F. , Generali L. , Sassatelli P. , Nucci C. , Lusvarghi L. , Gandolfi M. G. , Prati C.
Published: May 2015

Aim

To evaluate the surface and microstructural alterations of new and used HyFlex EDM prototypes and to test their fatigue resistance.

Methodology

Fifteen HyFlex EDM prototypes were used for in vitro instrumentation of severely curved root canals. Surface and microstructural characteristics of new and used files were compared by ESEM analysis equipped with energy dispersive X‐ray spectrophotometry (EDS) and optical metallographic imaging. Usage‐induced degradation was assessed. Thirty additional HyFlex EDM prototypes and 20 standard manufactured HyFlex CM files were subjected to cyclic fatigue tests. Time to fracture was recorded, and results were validated using the Kruskal–Wallis test (α‐level 0.05). Fatigued files were analysed by ESEM for fractographic evaluation.

Results

Surface and microstructural characterization of EDM prototypes revealed the typical spark‐machined surface of a NiTi EDM alloy. No fractures were registered during root canal instrumentation. No evident surface alterations and minor degradation were observed between new and used instruments. The metallographic analysis of new and used files disclosed a homogeneous structure, mostly composed of lenticular martensite grains, and some residual austenite. The cyclic fatigue test showed an increase of fatigue resistance up to 700% on the EDM compared to CM files.

Conclusions

Spark‐machined peculiar surface is the main feature of HyFlex EDM. Low degradation was observed after multiple canal instrumentations. Prototypes exhibited surprising high values of cyclic fatigue resistance and a safe in vitro use in severely curved canals.
Relaxed predation results in reduced phenotypic integration in a suite of dragonflies
Authors: Mikolajewski D. J. , Rüsen L. , Mauersberger R. , Johansson F. , Rolff J.
Published: May 2015

Although changes in magnitude of single traits responding to selective agents have been studied intensively, little is known about selection shaping networks of traits and their patterns of covariation. However, this is central for our understanding of phenotypic evolution as traits are embedded in a multivariate environment with selection affecting a multitude of traits simultaneously rather than individually. Here, we investigate inter‐ and intraspecific patterns of trait integration (trait correlations) in the larval abdomen of dragonflies as a response to a change in predator selection. Species of the dragonfly genusLeucorrhiniaunderwent a larval habitat shift from predatory fish to predatory dragonfly‐dominated lakes with an associated relaxation in selection pressure from fish predation. Our results indicate that the habitat‐shift‐induced relaxed selection pressure caused phenotypic integration of abdominal traits to be reduced. Intraspecific findings matched patterns comparing species from both habitats with higher abdominal integration in response to predatory fish. This higher integration is probably a result of faster burst swimming speed. The abdomen holds the necessary morphological machinery to successfully evade predatory fish via burst swimming. Hence, abdominal traits have to function in a tight coordinated manner, as maladaptive variation and consequently nonoptimal burst swimming would cause increased mortality. In predatory dragonfly‐dominated lakes, no such strong link between burst swimming and mortality is present. Our findings highlight the importance of studying multivariate trait relationships as a response to selection for understanding patterns of phenotypic diversification.
Insights into the life history and ecology of a large shortfin mako shark Isurus oxyrinchus captured in southern California
Authors: Lyons K. , Preti A. , Madigan D. J. , Wells R. J. D. , Blasius M. E. , Snodgrass O. E. , Kacev D. , Harris J. D. , Dewar H. , Kohin S. , MacKenzie K. , Lowe C. G.
Published: May 2015

In June 2013, a record‐breaking female Isurus oxyrinchus (total length 373 cm, mass 600 kg) was captured by rod and reel off Huntington Beach, California, where it was subsequently donated to research and provided a rare opportunity to collect the first data for a female I. oxyrinchus of this size. Counts of vertebral band pairs estimate the shark to have been c. 22 years old, depending upon assumptions of band‐pair deposition rates, and the distended uteri and spent ovaries indicated that this shark had recently given birth. The stomach contained a c. 4 year‐old female California sea lion Zalophus californianus that confirmed the high trophic position of this large I. oxyrinchus, which was corroborated with the high levels of measured contaminants and tissue isotope analyses.
First Report of Bacterial Leaf Spot of Parsley Caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. apii in Turkey
Authors: Bozkurt I. Adem , Horuz Sumer , Aysan Yesim , Soylu Soner
Published: May 2015

Since March, 2011, typical leaf spot symptoms were observed on parsley in several fields inspected in Hatay and Adana provinces of Turkey. Incidence of the disease was 5–15% in the regions. Symptoms were characterized as angular to irregular, initially water soaked later brown to dark black spots. Spots often limited by veins which were visible from both adaxial and abaxial sides of leaves but were not present on stems. Fluorescent bacterial colonies were consistently isolated from typical leaf spots. Biochemical tests, fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis, molecular, pathogenicity tests and sequence of 16S ribosomal DNA of bacterial isolates were performed to identify possible causal disease agent. The causal disease agent was identified as Pseudomonas syringae pv. apii based on symptoms, biochemical, molecular, pathogenicity tests and sequencing. To our knowledge, this is the first report of bacterial leaf spot on parsley caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. apii in Turkey.
Xylem cavitation resistance can be estimated based on time‐dependent rate of acoustic emissions
Authors: Nolf Markus , Beikircher Barbara , Rosner Sabine , Nolf Anton , Mayr Stefan
Published: May 2015

Acoustic emission (AE) analysis allows nondestructive monitoring of embolism formation in plant xylem, but signal interpretation and agreement of acoustically measured hydraulic vulnerability with reference hydraulic techniques remain under debate.

We compared the hydraulic vulnerability of 16 species and three crop tree cultivars using hydraulic flow measurements and acoustic emission monitoring, proposing the use of time‐dependent AE rates as a novel parameter for AE analysis.

There was a linear correlation between the water potential (Ψ) at 50% loss of hydraulic conductivity (P50) and the Ψ at maximum AE activity (Pmaxrate), where species with lower P50 also had lower Pmaxrate (P < 0.001, R2 = 0.76).

Using AE rates instead of cumulative counts for AE analysis allows more efficient estimation of P50, while excluding problematic AE at late stages of dehydration.
Effects of IL6 C‐634G polymorphism on tooth loss and their interaction with smoking habits
Authors: Suma S , Naito M , Wakai K , Sasakabe T , Hattori Y , Okada R , Kawai S , Hishida A , Morita E , Nakagawa H , Tamura T , Hamajima N
Published: May 2015

Objective

To examine the association between an IL6 (Interleukin‐6) polymorphism (C‐634G or rs1800796) and tooth loss, and an interaction between the polymorphism and smoking habits for the loss.

Material and Methods

Our subjects were 4917 check‐up examinees ages 35–69. They reported tooth loss and lifestyle in a questionnaire. We regressed the number of teeth on the IL6 genotype, gender, age, smoking, drinking, diabetes, hypertension, physical activity, energy intake, education, and brushing. We further estimated multivariate‐adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for having <20 teeth.

Results

Participants with a GG genotype tended to have less teeth than those with CC; β = −0.798 (95% confidence interval [CI] = −1.501–−0.096). Subjects with a GG genotype were more likely to have <20 teeth than those with CC; OR was 1.56 (95% CI = 1.08–2.25). Association between current smoking and tooth loss was stronger among those with GG than among those with CC. In a multiple regression analysis, a significant interaction was found between GG genotype and current smoking in the prediction of tooth loss (P = 0.018).

Conclusion

The IL6 C‐634G polymorphism was significantly associated with tooth loss. Our results suggest greater effects of smoking on tooth loss in GG genotype individuals.