bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personality traits as an endophenotype in genetic studies on suicidality in bipolar disorder
Authors: Pawlak J. , Dmitrzak-Węglarz M. , Maciukiewicz M. , Kapelski P. , Czerski P. , Leszczyńska-Rodziewicz A. , Zaremba D. , Hauser J.
Published: August 2016

Introduction

The influence of personality traits on suicidal behaviour risk has been well documented. Personality traits and suicidal behaviour are partially genetically determined and personality has been described as an endophenotype of suicidal behaviour. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible association between personality traits with suicidal behaviour and selected serotonergic gene polymorphisms.

Methods

In the study we included 156 patients meeting DSM-IV criteria for bipolar disorder (BP) and 93 healthy controls. The personality dimensions were assessed using the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI). We genotyped two selected polymorphisms of the tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1) gene (rs1800532 218A>C and rs1799913 779A>C) and polymorphism in the promoter region of serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR, rs25531) related to serotoninergic neurotransmission. Multiple poisson regression, logistic regression and Kruskal–Wallis tests were applied.

Results

We found numerous differences between the BP patients and the control group in terms of their TCI dimensions/subdimensions. Significant differences were found between patients with, and without, suicidal attempts in fatigability and asthenia (Ha4), as well as in harm avoidance (Ha). We also found that the interactions between TCI subdimensions (the interaction of disordiness (Ns4) and spiritual acceptance (St3), disordiness (Ns4) and integrated conscience (C5), extravagance (Ns3) and resourcefulness (Sd3)) were significantly contributing for suicidal behaviour risk. We found association between all studied genetic polymorphisms and several TCI dimensions and subdimensions.

Conclusion

Our results confirm that personality traits are partially determined by genes. Both personality traits and the interactions between temperament and character traits, may be helpful in predicting suicidal behaviour.
Carotenoids as biomarkers of fruit and vegetable intake in men and women
Authors: Couillard Charles , Lemieux Simone , Vohl Marie-Claude , Couture Patrick , Lamarche Benoît
Published: August 2016

High fruit and vegetable (FAV) intake is associated with a lower prevalence of chronic diseases. Identifying the ideal number of FAV servings needed to reduce chronic disease risk is, however, difficult because of biases inherent to common self-report dietary assessment tools. The aim of our study was to examine the associations between daily FAV intake and plasma carotenoid concentrations in men and women enrolled in a series of fully controlled dietary interventions. We compiled and analysed data from a group of 155 men and 109 women who participated in six fully controlled dietary interventions and compared post-intervention fasting plasma carotenoid (α-carotene,β-carotene,β-cryptoxanthin, lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin) concentrations with regard to the daily FAV servings consumed by the participants. We found that plasmaβ-cryptoxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations were positively associated with daily FAV servings (P≤0·005). However, daily FAV intake was negatively associated with plasmaα-carotene (P<0·0005) and lycopene (P<0·0001) concentrations, whereas no association was noted with plasmaβ-carotene. When men and women were analysed separately, we found that for any given number of FAV servings consumed women had higher circulating lutein concentrations compared with men (P<0·01). Significant sex×FAV (P<0·0001) and sex×dietaryβ-cryptoxanthin (P<0·0005) interactions were also noted favouring higher plasmaβ-cryptoxanthin concentrations in women than in men for a given FAV consumption. Results from these fully controlled dietary feeding studies indicate that plasmaβ-cryptoxanthin and lutein concentrations can be used as robust biomarkers of FAV consumption. They also suggest the existence of sex differences influencing circulatingβ-cryptoxanthin and lutein concentrations following FAV consumption.
Polyandry increases reproductive performance but does not decrease survival in female Brontispa longissima
Authors: Kawazu K. , Sugeno W. , Mochizuki A. , Nakamura S.
Published: August 2016

The costs and benefits of polyandry are still not well understood. We studied the effects of multiple mating on the reproductive performance of female Brontispa longissima (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), one of the most serious pests of the coconut palm, by using three experimental treatments: (1) singly-mated females (single treatment); (2) females that mated 10 times with the same male (repetition treatment); and (3) females that mated once with each of 10 different males (polyandry treatment). Both multiple mating treatments resulted in significantly greater total egg production and the proportion of eggs that successfully hatched (hatching success) than with the single mating treatment. Furthermore, the polyandry treatment resulted in greater total egg production and hatching success than with the repetition treatment. Thus, mate diversity may affect the direct and indirect benefits of multiple mating. Female longevity, the length of the preoviposition period, the length of the period from emergence to termination of oviposition, and the length of the ovipositing period did not differ among treatments. The pronounced fecundity and fertility benefits that females gain from multiple mating, coupled with a lack of longevity costs, apparently explain the extreme polyandry in B. longissima.
Spread and global population structure of the diamondback moth Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) and its larval parasitoids Diadegma semiclausum and Diadegma fenestrale (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) based on mtDNA
Authors: Juric I. , Salzburger W. , Balmer O.
Published: August 2016

The diamondback moth (DBM) (Plutella xylostella) is one of the main pests of brassicaceous crops worldwide and shows resistance against a wide range of synthetic insecticides incurring millions of dollars in control costs every year. The DBM is a prime example of the introduction of an exotic species as a consequence of globalization. In this study we analyzed the genetic population structure of the DBM and two of its parasitic wasps, Diadegma semiclausum and Diadegma fenestrale, based on mitochondrial DNA sequences. We analyzed DBM samples from 13 regions worldwide (n = 278), and samples of the two wasp species from six European and African countries (n = 131), in an attempt to reconstruct the geographic origin and phylogeography of the DBM and its two parasitic wasps. We found high variability in COI sequences in the diamondback moth. Haplotype analysis showed three distinct genetic clusters, one of which could represent a cryptic species. Mismatch analysis confirmed the hypothesized recent spread of diamondback moths in North America, Australia and New Zealand. The highest genetic variability was found in African DBM samples. Our data corroborate prior claims of Africa as the most probable origin of the species but cannot preclude Asia as an alternative. No genetic variability was found in the two Diadegma species. The lack of variability in both wasp species suggests a very recent spread of bottlenecked populations, possibly facilitated by their use as biocontrol agents. Our data thus also contain no signals of host-parasitoid co-evolution.
The effect of lime pre-treatments of date palm leaves on delignification and in vitro rumen degradability
Authors: GHORBANI M. , AHMADI F. , RAJAEE RAD A. , ZAMIRI M. J. , CONE J. W. , POLIKARPOV I.
Published: August 2016

Experiments were conducted to determine the effect of lime pre-treatment on the chemical composition and in vitro rumen degradability of date palm leaves (DPL). Lime pre-treatments, with or without oxygen supply, were applied for 1, 2 and 3 weeks at 25 and 40 °C. Lime was neutralized by the Calcium-Capturing-by-Carbonation process. Delignification and in vitro rumen gas production were significantly influenced by duration, temperature and oxygen. At 40 °C, oxygen presence stimulated more delignification and subsequently increased in vitro rumen degradability. Lime pre-treatment with 0·2 g calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2)/g dry biomass for 3 weeks at 40 °C in the presence of oxygen resulted in a 3-fold increase in gas production after 24 h of incubation, compared with untreated biomass. Lime treatment of DPL with aeration resulted in higher lignin removal and subsequent rumen degradability than without aeration. A techno-economic analysis is needed to select the most efficient and economically feasible pre-treatment procedure.
ENDOGAMY, CONSANGUINITY AND THE HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF CHANGING MARITAL CHOICES IN THE UK PAKISTANI COMMUNITY
Authors: Small Neil , Bittles Alan H. , Petherick Emily S. , Wright John
Published: August 2016

The biraderi(brotherhood) is a long-established, widely prevalent dimension of social stratification in Pakistani communities worldwide. Alongside consanguinity, it offers a route for cementing social solidarities and so has strong socio-biological significance. A detailed breakdown ofbiraderiaffiliation among participants in an ongoing birth cohort study in the northern English city of Bradford is presented. There is historical resilience of intra-biraderimarriage, but with a secular decline in prevalence across allbiraderiand considerable reductions in some. While a majority of marriages in allbiraderiare consanguineous the prevalence varies, ranging from over 80% to under 60%. In consanguineous unions, first cousin marriages account for more than 50% in five of the fifteenbiraderiand >40% in six others. Within-biraderimarriage and consanguinity enhance genetic stratification, thereby increasing rates of genomic homozygosity and the increased expression of recessive genetic disorders. The trends reported constitute putative signals of generational change in the marital choices in this community.
CAN BODY PROPORTIONS SERVE AS A PREDICTOR OF RISK-TAKING BEHAVIOURS IN WOMEN AND MEN?
Authors: Kasielska-Trojan Anna , Stabryła Piotr , Antoszewski Bogusław
Published: August 2016

The second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is claimed to be a biomarker of prenatal sex steroids. This study compared 2D:4D and waist–hip ratio (WHR) in men and women with nose deformity caused by injuries suggesting risky behaviour with those of unaffected controls. This kind of facial trauma was accepted as an indicator of risk-taking behaviour. The study involved 100 patients (50 women aged 30.74±8.09 years and 50 men aged 30.98±10.86 years) who underwent rhinoplasty due to nose trauma in a hospital in Łódź, Poland, in 2015. For comparison purposes, a control sample of 70 women (aged 23.03±3.36 years) and 70 men (aged 22.87±3.46 years) was recruited. In both groups the following measurements were taken: body height, waist and hip circumferences, II and IV digit lengths and body weight. The results showed that women and men who had suffered nose injury had significantly higher values of WHR than controls. The 2D:4D in women with post-traumatic nose deformity was significantly different than the ratio in control women (p<0.0001) and presented the male pattern. It is concluded that in women risky behaviours seem to be associated with prenatal sex hormone influence, while differences in WHR suggest that this tendency is also related to postnatal hormonal factors. Risky behaviours in men should be linked to postnatal hormonal changes rather than to increased prenatal androgen exposure.
SEX DIFFERENCES ON THE WISC-III AMONG CHILDREN IN SUDAN AND THE UNITED STATES
Authors: Bakhiet Salaheldin F. , Albursan Ismael S. , Al Qudah Mohammad F. , Abduljabbar Adel S. , Aljomaa Suliman S. , Toto Howida Sirelkhatim Abdalrahim , Lynn Richard
Published: August 2016

The sex differences on the WISC-III are reported for the thirteen subtests, the Verbal and Performance IQs, the four Index IQs and the Full Scale IQs in Sudan and the United States. The sex differences are closely similar in the two samples with a correlation of 0.878 (p<0.001) for the thirteen subtests. Males obtained significantly higher Full Scale IQs in the two samples of 0.23d and 0.11d, respectively.
Slack and Slacker: Job Seekers, Job Vacancies, and Matching Functions in the U.S. Labor Market during the Roaring Twenties and the Great Contraction, 1924–1932
Authors: Lee Woong
Published: August 2016

I use unique city-month level disaggregated data, from public employment offices, to estimate the matching functions for the 1920s and the early 1930s. The results show that the public labor exchange was slack, a relative deficiency of job vacancies, in the 1920s and it became slacker during the Great Depression. However, the findings show that there was no deterioration of the matching efficiency in the early 1930s. The outcome of a deficiency of labor demand during the 1930s implies that there was a need for effective government policies to implement the new job-creation programs.
The Yankees of Europe? A New View on Technology and Productivity in German Manufacturing in the Early Twentieth Century
Authors: Timmer Marcel P. , Veenstra Joost , Woltjer Pieter J.
Published: August 2016

Labor productivity in German manufacturing lagged persistently behind the United States in the early twentieth century. Traditionally, this is attributed to dichotomous technology paths across the Atlantic. However, various industry case studies suggest rapid diffusion of U.S. technologies in Germany. We develop a novel decomposition framework based on Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to reconcile these findings. We conclude that by 1936 inefficient assimilation of modern production techniques—and not the use of different techniques—accounted for most of the U.S./German labor-productivity gap. Our findings call for a reappraisal of the drivers behind cross-country differences in manufacturing performance.
Public Mass Modern Education, Religion, and Human Capital in Twentieth-Century Egypt
Authors: Saleh Mohamed
Published: August 2016

Public mass modern education was a major pillar of state-led development in the post-Colonial period. I examine the impact of Egypt's transformation in 1951–1953 of traditional elementary schools (kuttabs) into modern primary schools on the Christian-Muslim educational and occupational differentials, which were in favor of Christians. The reform grantedkuttabs' graduates (where Muslim students were over-represented) access to higher stages of education that were previously confined to primary schools' graduates. Exploiting the variation in exposure to the reform across cohorts and districts of birth among males in 1986, I find that the reform benefited Muslims but not Christians.

What Europe is suffering from is the result of generalizing education among all levels of society… they have no chance of avoiding what happened[Europe's 1848 revolutions].So if this is an example in front of us, our duty is simply to teach them how to read and write to a certain limit in order to encourage satisfactory work and not to spread education beyond that point.

Muhammad Ali Pasha, Ottoman Viceroy of Egypt (1805–1848), in a private letter to his son, Ibrahim Pasha (in Judith Cochran 1986, p. 6)

Education is like the water we drink and the air we breathe.

Taha Hussein, Egyptian liberal intellectual and Egypt's Minister of Education (1950–1952)

The poor go to heaven, but can't they have a share on Earth too? They are willing to give up a share in heaven in exchange for a share on Earth.

Gamal Abdul-Nasser, President of Egypt (1956–1970) (Excerpt from a public speech)
Current status and clinical association of beta-catenin with juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma
Authors: Mishra A , Singh V , Verma V , Pandey S , Trivedi R , Singh H P , Kumar S , Dwivedi R C , Mishra S C
Published: August 2016

Objective:

A possible role of the APC/beta-catenin pathway in the pathogenesis of sporadic juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma has been suggested. This paper presents its current status and clinical association in our patients.

Method:

A prospective observational study was conducted at King George Medical University and Central Drug Research Institute, in Lucknow, India. Western blot analysis was undertaken in 16 cases to examine beta-catenin expression. The clinical details were recorded along with follow up observations, to determine associations.

Results:

Up-regulation of beta-catenin expression was seen in 69 per cent of cases. The clinical variables did not reveal significant differences between patients with extremes of expression (extreme under-vsover-expression). However, absent expression was shown exclusively in young adults aged over 18 years, while enhanced expression was associated with an altered facial profile.

Conclusion:

Although a beta-catenin association was seen in a subset of our sporadic juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma cases, its expression was not homogeneous. This is in contrast to the Western literature that suggests a universal (homogenous) enhanced expression in the majority. Hence, further research is required to better define its molecular cascade.
Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy a salvage treatment option for sudden sensorineural hearing loss?
Authors: Alimoglu Y , Inci E
Published: August 2016

Objective:

To investigate of the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a salvage treatment after unsuccessful oral corticosteroid therapy.

Methods:

Case notes of patients who were followed up because of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss between 2005 and 2011 in a tertiary care centre were examined retrospectively. Audiograms from before and after hyperbaric oxygen therapy were examined in terms of mean gains in pure tone average and at 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 8 kHz. In addition, recovery according to Siegel's criteria was noted.

Results:

Mean gain in pure tone average was 10.55 ± 13.56 dB. Mean gains at 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 8 kHz were 16.66 ± 18.43 dB, 16.94 ± 19.93 dB, 12.63 ± 16.71 dB, 7.36 ± 15.28 dB, 5.27 ± 11.58 dB and 2.91 ± 12.44 dB, respectively. Three patients had complete recovery, 1 had partial recovery, 5 had slight recovery and 25 had no improvement.

Conclusion:

Hyperbaric oxygen utilised as a salvage therapy after failed corticosteroid therapy may be beneficial in some patients. Studies with more patients are needed.
Harvesting Cholera: Fruit, Disease and Governance in the Cholera Epidemic of Tucumán, Argentina, 1867–68
Authors: DIMAS CARLOS S.
Published: August 2016

In 1868 a cholera epidemic erupted in the north-western Argentine province of Tucumán. Urban-based doctors and politicians argued that fruit cultivated primarily in the south of the province was responsible for the spread of cholera. Hoping to avoid cholera, they advocated the complete prohibition and destruction of fruit in Tucumán as both a prophylactic measure, but also to prepare new land for sugar cultivation. Through a reading of governmental memos, medical journals, and public health reports, this article examines how agriculture, disease, and contagion mediated the interaction between Tucumán's urban minority and rural majority. This article offers a window into grassroots politics and state formation during one of Argentina's most formative periods.
Metamorphosis of the Pedunculate BarnacleCapitulum mitellaLinnaeus, 1758 (Cirripedia: Scalpelliformes)
Authors: Lin Gang , Rao Xiaozhen
Published: August 2016

In this paper, metamorphosis of laboratory-reared cyprids of the pedunculate cirripede,Capitulum mitellawas successfully induced. A timeline and a detailed description of morphological events during metamorphosis were derived from light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses. The metamorphic process of cyprids involves five main events. (1) Triggering of metamorphosis: after 0–6 h of reagent exposure, the epidermis ventral to the compound eyes gradually invaginates. (2) Invagination and separation of epidermis: after 6–36 h, the invagination bypasses the compound eyes, the cypris epidermis separates slightly from the carapace and the nauplius eye gradually migrates ventrally. (3) Formation of juvenile rudiment: after 36–72 h, the metamorphosing specimen shape slightly resembles that of a juvenile. (4) Shedding of thoracopodal exuvium: after 72–96 h, the cyprid finally sheds the thoracopodal exuvium and metamorphoses into a juvenile barnacle. (5) Early development of juvenile barnacle: the juvenile shed the cirrum cuticle for the first, second, third and fourth time at 1.5–2, 1.5–2, 4–5 and 5–6 days, respectively. The newly formed juvenile completely assumes the shape and armature of all shell-plates found in adult barnacle. Rostro-carnal length of the juvenile is 240–260 μm. Tergum, scutum and upper latus are paired, and carina and rostrum are unpaired. Uniform circular depressions are dispersed on the surface of the tergum, scutum and carina. The rostrum and upper latus, which have the shape of small triangle, are not clear. The entire surface of the peduncle is covered with convoluted cuticular ridges. The metamorphosis ofC. mitellais similar to that ofLepas.
Adjustment of photoprotection to tidal conditions in intertidal seagrasses
Authors: Kohlmeier D. , Pilditch C.A. , Bornman J. F. , Bischof K.
Published: August 2016

Light adaptive strategies were studied in a comparative analysis of the congeneric seagrass species Zostera muelleri and Zostera marina at two case study areas in New Zealand and Germany. Surveys in intertidal seagrass meadows were conducted from pre-dawn until sunset on days when either low or high tide coincided with noon. The results show marked fluctuations of photophysiology (optimum and effective quantum yield, non-photochemical quenching, cycling of xanthophyll cycle (XC) pigments) over daily and tidal cycles. At both locations, we observed a near complete conversion (de-epoxidation) of violaxanthin to zeaxanthin at times with high irradiance and a rapid and complete re-epoxidation under subsequent lower light conditions. At the New Zealand site we also observed significantly larger XC-pigment pool sizes in seagrass leaves sampled in a week when low tide coincided with noon (larger daily fluence and higher maximum irradiance), compared with leaves sampled in a week when high tide was at noon. This dynamic adjustment of xanthophyll pool size has not been previously reported for intertidal seagrasses. It adds to our understanding of an important adaptive feature in a highly dynamic light environment and to the general ecology and adaptability of seagrasses.
Standing stock variations, growth and CaCO3 production by the calcareous green alga Halimeda opuntia
Authors: Carneiro Pedro Bastos De Macedo , Pereira Jamile Ulisses , Matthews-Cascon Helena
Published: August 2016

The present paper investigates standing stock variations of Halimeda opuntia on a sandstone reef of the South-west Atlantic Ocean, in order to better understand the role of this seaweed as a CaCO3 producer. The study was conducted over two 3-month periods, using photo quadrats to analyse the coverage area, and destructive sampling to quantify area-specific biomass and CaCO3 percentage. The alga occupied 2.4% of the substrate (4464 m2), growing as clumps with an average biomass of 1.59 kg m−2, resulting in a standing stock of 7097.8 kg of alga. This standing stock varied with environmental conditions, particularly wind speed. Assuming an exponential model for these variations, H. opuntia produced at least 13,050.14 kg (54.37 g m−2 day−1) of carbonate sediments. There was a positive correlation between changes in standing stock and coverage, but not with area-specific biomass. This suggests that net algal growth results in the occupation of new spaces, with minimal increases in height or segment density. Therefore monitoring coverage should complement traditional individual-based methods for estimating Halimeda growth and production. Combined, these approaches should result in more accurate models of the role of this alga on marine carbonate budgets.
Species delimitation in trematodes using DNA sequences: Middle-American Clinostomum as a case study
Authors: PÉREZ-PONCE DE LEÓN GERARDO , GARCÍA-VARELA MARTÍN , PINACHO-PINACHO CARLOS D. , SERENO-URIBE ANA L. , POULIN ROBERT
Published: August 2016

The recent development of genetic methods allows the delineation of species boundaries, especially in organisms where morphological characters are not reliable to differentiate species. However, few empirical studies have used these tools to delineate species among parasitic metazoans. Here we investigate the species boundaries of Clinostomum, a cosmopolitan trematode genus with complex life cycle. We sequenced a mitochondrial [cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI)] gene for multiple individuals (adults and metacercariae) from Middle-America. Bayesian phylogenetic analysis of the COI uncovered five reciprocally monophyletic clades. COI sequences were then explored using the Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery to identify putative species; this species delimitation method recognized six species. A subsample was sequenced for a nuclear gene (ITS1, 5·8S, ITS2), and a concatenated phylogenetic analysis was performed through Bayesian inference. The species delimitation of Middle-American Clinostomum was finally validated using a multispecies coalescent analysis (species tree). In total, five putative species are recognized among our samples. Mapping the second intermediate hosts (fish) onto the species tree suggests that metacercariae of these five species exhibit some level of host specificity towards their fish intermediate host (at the family level), irrespective of geographical distribution.
Delay discounting and response disinhibition under acute experimental stress in women with borderline personality disorder and adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Krause-Utz A. , Cackowski S. , Daffner S. , Sobanski Esther , Plichta Michael M. , Bohus M. , Ende G. , Schmahl C.
Published: August 2016

Background

Impulsivity is a core feature of borderline personality disorder (BPD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In BPD, impulsive behavior primarily occurs under acute stress; impulse control deficits under non-stress conditions may be partly related to co-morbid ADHD. We aimed to investigate whether acute experimental stress has an impact on self-reported impulsivity, response inhibition (action withholding, action cancelation) and delay discounting in BPD compared to ADHD.

Method

Thirty female BPD patients, 28 female ADHD patients (excluding patients with co-morbid BPD and ADHD), and 30 female healthy controls (HC) completed self-reports and behavioral measures of impulsivity (IMT, assessing action withholding; GoStop, measuring action cancelation, Delay Discounting Task) under baseline conditions and after an experimental stress induction (Mannheim Multicomponent Stress Test).

Results

Both patient groups reported higher impulsivity than HC, ADHD reported higher trait impulsivity than BPD. On the IMT, ADHD showed significant action-withholding deficits under both conditions, while BPD performed significantly worse than HC under stress. In BPD but not ADHD and HC, action-withholding deficits (IMT) were significantly increased under stress compared to baseline, while no group/stress effects were found for action cancelation (GoStop). Delay discounting was significantly more pronounced in BPD than in HC (no stress effect was found).

Conclusions

In BPD, behavioral deficits in action withholding (but not in action cancelation) appear to be influenced by acute experimental stress. Delay discounting seems to be a general feature of BPD, independent of co-morbid ADHD and acute stress, possibly underlying typical expressions of behavioral impulsivity in the disorder.
Associations between mood instability and emotional processing in a large cohort of bipolar patients
Authors: Bilderbeck A. C. , Reed Z. E. , McMahon H. C. , Atkinson L. Z. , Price J. , Geddes J. R. , Goodwin G. M. , Harmer C. J.
Published: August 2016

Background

Aberrant emotional biases have been reported in bipolar disorder (BD), but results are inconsistent. Despite the clinical relevance of chronic mood variability in BD, there is no previous research investigating how the extent of symptom fluctuations in bipolar disorder might relate to emotional biases. This exploratory study investigated, in a large cohort of bipolar patients, whether instability in weekly mood episode symptoms and other clinical and demographic factors were related to emotional bias as measured in a simple laboratory task.

Method

Participants (N = 271, BDI = 206, BDII = 121) completed an ‘emotional categorization and memory’ task. Weekly self-reported symptoms of depression and mania were collected prospectively. In linear regression analyses, associations between cognitive bias and mood variability were explored together with the influence of demographic and clinical factors, including current medication.

Results

Greater accuracy in the classification of negative words relative to positive words was associated with greater instability in depressive symptoms. Furthermore, greater negative bias in free recall was associated with higher instability in manic symptoms. Participants diagnosed with BDII, compared with BDI, showed overall better word recognition and recall. Current antipsychotic use was associated with reduced instability in manic symptoms but this did not impact on emotional processing performance.

Conclusions

Emotional processing biases in bipolar disorder are related to instability in mood. These findings prompt further investigation into the underpinnings as well as clinical significance of mood instability.
The cross-national epidemiology of DSM-IV intermittent explosive disorder
Authors: Scott K. M. , Lim C. C. W. , Hwang I. , Adamowski T. , Al-Hamzawi A. , Bromet E. , Bunting B. , Ferrand M. P. , Florescu S. , Gureje O. , Hinkov H. , Hu C. , Karam E. , Lee S. , Posada-Villa J. , Stein D. , Tachimori H. , Viana M. C. , Xavier M. , Kessler R. C.
Published: August 2016

Background

This is the first cross-national study of intermittent explosive disorder (IED).

Method

A total of 17 face-to-face cross-sectional household surveys of adults were conducted in 16 countries (n = 88 063) as part of the World Mental Health Surveys initiative. The World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 3.0) assessed DSM-IV IED, using a conservative definition.

Results

Lifetime prevalence of IED ranged across countries from 0.1 to 2.7% with a weighted average of 0.8%; 0.4 and 0.3% met criteria for 12-month and 30-day prevalence, respectively. Sociodemographic correlates of lifetime risk of IED were being male, young, unemployed, divorced or separated, and having less education. The median age of onset of IED was 17 years with an interquartile range across countries of 13–23 years. The vast majority (81.7%) of those with lifetime IED met criteria for at least one other lifetime disorder; co-morbidity was highest with alcohol abuse and depression. Of those with 12-month IED, 39% reported severe impairment in at least one domain, most commonly social or relationship functioning. Prior traumatic experiences involving physical (non-combat) or sexual violence were associated with increased risk of IED onset.

Conclusions

Conservatively defined, IED is a low prevalence disorder but this belies the true societal costs of IED in terms of the effects of explosive anger attacks on families and relationships. IED is more common among males, the young, the socially disadvantaged and among those with prior exposure to violence, especially in childhood.
Differential effects of methylphenidate and atomoxetine on intrinsic brain activity in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Shang C. Y. , Yan C. G. , Lin H. Y. , Tseng W. Y. , Castellanos F. X. , Gau S. S.
Published: August 2016

Background

Methylphenidate and atomoxetine are commonly prescribed for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, their therapeutic neural mechanisms remain unclear.

Method

After baseline evaluation including cognitive testing of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), drug-naive children with ADHD (n = 46), aged 7–17 years, were randomly assigned to a 12-week treatment with methylphenidate (n = 22) or atomoxetine (n = 24). Intrinsic brain activity, including the fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo), was quantified via resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging at baseline and week 12.

Results

Reductions in inattentive symptoms were related to increased fALFF in the left superior temporal gyrus and left inferior parietal lobule for ADHD children treated with methylphenidate, and in the left lingual gyrus and left inferior occipital gyrus for ADHD children treated with atomoxetine. Hyperactivity/impulsivity symptom reductions were differentially related to increased fALFF in the methylphenidate group and to decreased fALFF in the atomoxetine group in bilateral precentral and postcentral gyri. Prediction analyses in the atomoxetine group revealed negative correlations between pre-treatment CANTAB simple reaction time and fALFF change in the left lingual gyrus and left inferior occipital gyrus, and positive correlations between pre-treatment CANTAB simple movement time and fALFF change in bilateral precentral and postcentral gyri and left precuneus, with a negative correlation between movement time and the fALFF change in the left lingual gyrus and the inferior occipital gyrus.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest differential neurophysiological mechanisms for the treatment effects of methylphenidate and atomoxetine in children with ADHD.
The Middle-Income Trap
Authors: Doner Richard F. , Schneider Ben Ross
Published: August 2016

Economists have identified the existence of a middle-income (MI) trap but have yet to analyze the politics of this trap. The authors argue that countries in theMItrap face two major institutional and political challenges. First, the policies necessary to upgrade productivity—as in human capital and innovation—require enormous investment in institutional capacity. Second, these institutional challenges come at a time when political capacity for building these institutions is weak, due primarily to the fragmentation of potential support coalitions. Politics are stalled in particular by fractured social groups, especially business and labor, and more generally by inequality. These conditions result in large measure from previous trajectories of growth. The empirical analysis concentrates on nine of the largerMIcountries.
Political Repression and the Destruction of Dissident Organizations
Authors: Sullivan Christopher M.
Published: August 2016

How does repression influence overt, collective challenges directed against political authority? To date, answers to this question have been inconclusive. This article argues that recent works inadequately address the topic because the focus has been on repression's impact on local civilians, with less consideration of dissident organizations. The author develops an organizational theory of challenger development and specifies predictions for how repression's effects on dissent are contingent upon the types of organizational behaviors targeted for coercion. The analysis employs original, microlevel data collected from previously confidential Guatemalan National Police records to assess the effects of repression during the years 1975 to 1985. Results show that the effects of repression are more complex than previously imagined. When repression targets the clandestine activities necessary to develop and sustain dissident organizations, such as holding meetings, training participants, and campaigning for funds, dissent declines significantly. But when repression is directed at ongoing, overt, collective challenges, it motivates a backlash that escalates dissent. Implications are drawn for how political order and conflict are understood and studied.
Disability trends among older adults in ten European countries over 2004–2013, using various indicators and Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) data
Authors: VERROPOULOU GEORGIA , TSIMBOS CLEON
Published: August 2016

In the context of the prospective increase in the numbers of older adults in Europe and of conflicting findings regarding recent disability trends, the present study uses cross-sectional data from four waves of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), covering the period 2004–2013, and aims at the assessment of trends in disability by sex and broad age group (50–64 and 65 and over) for the ten countries participating in all waves, based on four different measures: limitations in activities of daily living (ADLs), limitations in instrumental ADLs, mobility difficulties and the Global Activity Limitation Indicator. The analysis uses logistic regression models adjusted for age and, subsequently, also for chronic conditions. The findings indicate improvements both in mild/moderate activity restrictions and in functional limitations for several countries, especially among men and women aged 65 and over. Regarding severe disability (ADLs) there is mostly a lack of any significant trend and only a few declines. In several instances, the observed trends are linked to changes in chronic conditions; significant improvements net of chronic conditions are found mainly in Sweden but also in the Netherlands, Austria, Germany, Italy and France. Overall, the estimated trends often differentiate by country, age group and sex while they depend upon the specificities of the measures used in the analysis.
Quality of urban life among older adults in the world major metropolises: a cross-cultural comparative study
Authors: PAN XI , CHAHAL JASLEEN K. , MARIE WARD ROSE
Published: August 2016

The concept of quality of urban life (QoUL) can be interpreted quite differently across different cultures. Little evidence has shown that the measure of QoUL, which is based on Western culture, can be applied to populations cross-culturally. In the current study, we use data from the 2006 Assessing Happiness and Competitiveness of World Major Metropolises study to identify underlying factors associated with QoUL as well as assess the consistency of the QoUL measurement among adults, aged 60 and older, in ten world major metropolises (i.e. New York City, Toronto, London, Paris, Milan, Berlin, Stockholm, Beijing, Tokyo and Seoul). Exploratory factor analysis and multiple-group confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) are used to analyse the data. Findings of the study suggest that the measure of QoUL is sensitive to socio-cultural differences. Community factor and intrapersonal factor are two underlying structures that are related to QoUL among older adults in ten metropolises cross-culturally. Results from the CFA indicate that Toronto is comparable with Beijing, New York City, Paris, Milan and Stockholm in QoUL, while other cities are not. The results provide insights into the development of current urban policy and promotion of quality of life among older residents in major metropolitan areas. Future researchers should continue to explore the relationship between QoUL and socio-cultural differences within international urban settings, while remaining cautious when making cross-cultural comparisons.
Measure theory over boolean toposes
Authors: HENRY SIMON
Published: August 2016

In this paper we develop a notion of measure theory over boolean toposes reminiscent of the theory of von Neumann algebras. This is part of a larger project to study relations between topos theory and noncommutative geometry. The main result is a topos theoretic version of the modular time evolution of von Neumann algebras which take the form of a canonical$\mathbb{R}^{>0}$-principal bundle over any integrable locally separated boolean topos.
La mémoire autobiographique à travers le parcours de vie: évaluation rétrospective du bonheur et de la vulnérabilité
Authors: Dasoki Nora , Morselli Davide , Spini Dario
Published: August 2016

Our research is interested in understanding how the elderly evaluate their past, so the aims of this study are, first, to understand if there are age differences within the older population in terms of positivity effect, and second, to test if perception of happiness and vulnerability are two independent recall systems. To test our hypotheses, we used the Vivre / Leben / Vivere survey on a population of 65 years and older (n=4200), in Switzerland. Findings show that happiness depends on social and cultural norms, while there is an age effect for vulnerability. For happiness, there are no age differences, but this is not the case for vulnerability: the oldest age groups are less likely to report episodes of vulnerability during most of their lives.
Osteology of a perinatal aristonectine (Plesiosauria; Elasmosauridae)
Authors: O’Gorman José P. , Talevi Marianella , Fernández Marta S.
Published: August 2016

Perinatal specimens give valuable information about the first stages of vertebrate ontogeny. Here, the morphology and palaeohistology of an aristonectine perinatal specimen from Seymour Island (Isla Marambio), López de Bertodano Formation are analysed. The palaeohistological analysis shows incomplete endochondral ossification (retention of a calcified cartilaginous core in the medullary region), predominance of primary bone tissue without secondary remodelling, lack of primary or secondary osteons and of growth marks in the cortical bone, and open vascular spaces not surrounded by a thin coat of lamellar bone tissue. General lines of morphological changes were inferred from comparing the fossil with an adult aristonectine specimen indicating i) a tendency of relatively high and broad posterior cervicals to decrease during ontogeny, ii) a decrease of relative size of the dorsolateral process and an increase of the glenoid ramus and iii) the existence of two separate stages in propodial growth divided into an initial elongation followed by a distal expansion. The presence of a perinatal specimen in the James Ross Archipelago indicates that the region was used as a breeding area by the aristonectines during the last part of the Cretaceous.
Eliminating dependent pattern matching without K
Authors: COCKX JESPER , DEVRIESE DOMINIQUE , PIESSENS FRANK
Published: August 2016

Dependent pattern matching is an intuitive way to write programs and proofs in dependently typed languages. It is reminiscent of both pattern matching in functional languages and case analysis in on-paper mathematics. However, in general, it is incompatible with new type theories such as homotopy type theory (HoTT). As a consequence, proofs in such theories are typically harder to write and to understand. The source of this incompatibility is the reliance of dependent pattern matching on the so-called K axiom – also known as the uniqueness of identity proofs – which is inadmissible in HoTT. In this paper, we propose a new criterion for dependent pattern matching without K, and prove it correct by a translation to eliminators in the style of Goguenet al. (2006Algebra, Meaning, and Computation). Our criterion is both less restrictive than existing proposals, and solves a previously undetected problem in the old criterion offered by Agda. It has been implemented in Agda and is the first to be supported by a formal proof. Thus, it brings the benefits of dependent pattern matching to contexts where we cannot assume K, such as HoTT.
Pulmonary haemodynamics in Fontan physiology after lobectomy in a patient with a single ventricle associated with pulmonary sequestration
Authors: Mii Sayaka , Yasuda Kazushi , Murayama Hiroomi
Published: August 2016

A 2-year-old girl with a functionally univentricular heart associated with a pulmonary sequestration underwent right lower lobectomy after which increased lung volume with low mean pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance was documented. A cardiac catheterisation performed after a subsequent total cavopulmonary connection demonstrated favourable Fontan haemodynamics. Lobectomy may have induced compensatory lung growth, contributing to the maintenance of haemodynamics favourable for the long-term success of the Fontan procedure.
Schema Therapy for Personality Disorders: a Qualitative Study of Patients’ and Therapists’ Perspectives
Authors: de Klerk Noor , Abma Tineke A. , Bamelis Lotte L.M. , Arntz Arnoud
Published: August 2016

Background: Several studies have evaluated the (cost) effectiveness of schema therapy for personality disorders, but little research has been done on the perspectives of patients and therapists. Aim: The present study aims to explore patients’ and therapists’ perspectives on schema therapy. Method: Qualitative data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 15 patients and a focus group of 8 therapists. A thematic analysis was performed. Results: Most patients and therapists agreed that helpful aspects in schema therapy were the highly committed therapeutic relationship, the transparent and clear theoretical model, and the specific schema therapy techniques. About unhelpful aspects, several patients and some therapists shared the opinion that 50 sessions was not enough. Furthermore, patients lacked clear advance information about the possibility that they might temporarily experience stronger emotions during therapy and the possibility of having telephone contact outside session hours. They missed practical goals in the later stage of therapy. With regard to imagery, patients experienced time pressure and they missed a proper link between the past and the present. For therapists, it was hard to manage the therapeutic relation, to get used to a new kind of therapy and to keep the treatment focused on personality problems. Conclusions: Patients and therapists found some aspects of the schema therapy protocol helpful. Their views about which aspects are unhelpful and their recommendations need to be taken into consideration when adjusting the protocol and implementing schema therapy.
Profiles of Neuropsychological Functioning in Children and Adolescents with Spina Bifida: Associations with Biopsychosocial Predictors and Functional Outcomes
Authors: Wasserman Rachel M. , Holmbeck Grayson N.
Published: August 2016

Objectives: The current study examined neuropsychological performance among children with spina bifida (SB) to determine biological and functional correlates of distinct “profiles” of cognitive functioning. Methods: A total of 95 children with SB myelomeningocele (ages, 8–15 years) completed a neuropsychological assessment battery. Hierarchical and non-hierarchical cluster analyses were used to identify and confirm a cluster solution. Hypothesized predictors of cluster membership included lesion level, number of shunt surgeries, history of seizures, age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, and family stress. Outcomes included independence, academic success, expectations for the future, and quality of life. Results: Ward’s cluster method indicated a three-cluster solution, and was replicated with two other cluster analytic methods. The following labels were applied to the clusters: “average to low average” (n=39), “extremely low to borderline” (n=27), and “broadly average with verbal strength” (n=29). Socio-econimc status, lesion level, and seizure history significantly predicted group membership. Cluster membership significantly predicted independence, academic success, parent expectations for the future, and child reported physical quality of life. Conclusions: Findings from this study suggest qualitatively different cognitive profiles exist among children with SB, and the relevance of neuropsychological functioning for day-to-day adaptive functioning and quality of life. Clinical implications and future research are discussed. (JINS, 2016, 22, 804–815)