bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In situ X‐ray Diffraction Studies of Cation and Anion Inter­calation into Graphitic Carbons for Electrochemical Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Placke Tobias , Schmuelling Guido , Kloepsch Richard , Meister Paul , Fromm Olga , Hilbig Peter , Meyer Hinrich‐Wilhelm , Winter Martin
Published: July 2014

Graphite is a redox‐amphoteric intercalation host and thus capable to incorporate various types of cations and anions between its planar graphene sheets to form so‐called donor‐type or acceptor‐type graphite intercalation compounds (GICs) by electrochemical intercalation at specific potentials. While the LiCx/Cx donor‐type redox couple is the major active compound for state‐of‐the‐art negative electrodes in lithium‐ion batteries, acceptor‐type GICs were proposed for positive electrodes in the “dual‐ion” and “dual‐graphite” cell, another type of electrochemical energy storage system. In this contribution, we analyze the electrochemical intercalation of different anions, such as bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide or hexafluorophosphate, into graphitic carbons by means of in situ X‐ray diffraction (XRD). In general, the characterization of battery electrode materials by in situ XRD is an important technique to study structural and compositional changes upon insertion and de‐insertion processes during charge/discharge cycling. We discuss anion (X–) and cation (M+) intercalation/de‐intercalation into graphites on a comparative basis with respect to the Mx+Cn– and Cn+Xn– stoichiometry, discharge capacity, the intercalant gallery height/gallery expansion and the M–M or X–X in‐plane distances.
Ultrasonographic measurement of fetal growth parameters over three successive pregnancies in a captive Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus)
Authors: Hoyer M. J. , van Engeldorp Gastelaars H. M. D.
Published: July 2014

This study was conducted to establish representative curves that allow evaluation of fetal growth and estimation of gestational age from measurement of fetal structures by ultrasound in Malayan tapirs (Tapirus indicus). Three pregnancies (i.e. 3 fetuses) were examined in one female Malayan tapir. Transabdominal ultrasonographic examination was performed without anesthesia from 79 ± 8 days to 281 ± 48 days (mean ± S.D.) post mating. To assess fetal growth attempts were made to measure biparietal diameter (BPD), head length (HL), thorax diameter A (TDA), thorax height A (THA), thorax diameter B (TDB), thorax height B (THB), abdomen diameter (AD), abdomen height (AH), humerus length (HUL) and Crown rump length (CRL). The value of each parameter as an estimator of gestational age was assessed by ease of observation and the length of time the parameter was measurable throughout gestation. The most precise predictors for gestational age in this study were BPD and CRL (weeks 10–20 of gestation), as well as AD and AH (weeks 14–43 of gestation). The parameters TDB, THB and HUL (weeks 15–41 of gestation) gave almost as good predictions. Fetal viability was assessed by identifying a fetal heartbeat and movement. All pregnancies resulted in normal deliveries and healthy offspring. The ultrasound examination was well tolerated by the female. The gestation lengths (399 ± 3 days) were within reported ranges. The serial transabdominal ultrasound, without the need for anesthesia, was an effective method to evaluate fetal growth, development and well being in a Malayan tapir. Zoo Biol. 33:295–304, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Sketch Engine
Authors: Kilgarriff Adam , Baisa Vít , Bušta Jan , Jakubíček Miloš , Kovář Vojtěch , Michelfeit Jan , Rychlý Pavel , Suchomel Vít
Published: July 2014

The Sketch Engine is a leading corpus tool, widely used in lexicography. Now, at 10 years old, it is mature software. The Sketch Engine website offers many ready-to-use corpora, and tools for users to build, upload and install their own corpora. The paper describes the core functions (word sketches, concordancing, thesaurus). It outlines the different kinds of users, and the approach taken to working with many different languages. It then reviews the kinds of corpora available in the Sketch Engine, gives a brief tour of some of the innovations fromthe last few years, and surveys other corpus tools and websites.
EEG abnormalities and seizures in genetically diagnosed Fragile X syndrome
Authors: Heard Takijah T. , Ramgopal Sriram , Picker Jonathan , Lincoln Sharyn A. , Rotenberg Alexander , Kothare Sanjeev V.
Published: July 2014

We describe the seizure and EEG characteristics in a population of children with known Fragile X. The medical records of 135 genetically confirmed FXS patients receiving care in a Fragile X clinic and their available EEG reports were reviewed. The mean age was 5.94 years old including 18 males and 1 female. The mean age was 4–9 years old with an age range of 15 months to 13 years old. Twenty‐two patients (16.3%) in the series had parent‐reported behavior suspicious of seizures. Sixteen patients (14.1%, 1 female) had at least one EEG recorded for evaluation of clinical events suspicious for seizure, and three patients (2.2%) had an EEG in the context of a polysomnography for diagnosing sleep apnea. The mean age at EEG evaluation was 6.0 years (standard deviation 3.8 years). EEG findings included slowing of background rhythm (n = 9) and epileptiform discharges (n = 7). Four patients had normal EEGs (n = 4). Six patients (4.4% of the sample population) were diagnosed with epilepsy by both clinical seizure semiology and documented EEG abnormalities. Thirteen patients (68.4% of total) had episodes of staring and behavioral arrest with no EEG correlate, indicating non‐epileptic events. Of the eight patients who underwent a repeat EEG, five patients had showed normalization in the posterior dominant rhythm over time, two patients had unchanged findings and one patient had worsening of his EEG. Our data warrant further prospective validation.
Follow‐up evaluation of cognitive function in the randomized Alzheimer's Disease Anti‐inflammatory Prevention Trial and its Follow‐up Study
Authors:   ADAPT‐FS Research Group
Published: July 2014

Objective

The Alzheimer's Disease Anti‐Inflammatory Prevention Trial (ADAPT) and Follow‐up Study (ADAPT‐FS) examined effects of naproxen and celecoxib on cognition in the elderly. We report here results describing trajectories of cognitive evaluation test scores.

Methods

A total of 2356 participants completed baseline and at least one follow‐up cognitive evaluation between 2001 and 2004. Study treatments were discontinued in 2004, but participants were followed until 2007. A total of 1537 participants were reevaluated in 2010 to 2011. Outcomes include seven cognitive evaluations administered yearly in person in ADAPT and three of these evaluations that were administered by telephone near the end of ADAPT and again in ADAPT‐FS.

Results

There were no important differences over time by treatment group on any ADAPT cognitive measure, a global composite, or the three cognitive measures reassessed in ADAPT‐FS by telephone.

Conclusions

Treatment for 1 to 3 years with naproxen or celecoxib did not protect against cognitive decline in older adults with a family history of AD.
Biomarker progressions explain higher variability in stage‐specific cognitive decline than baseline values in Alzheimer disease
Authors: Dodge Hiroko H. , Zhu Jian , Harvey Danielle , Saito Naomi , Silbert Lisa C. , Kaye Jeffrey A. , Koeppe Robert A. , Albin Roger L. ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2014

Background

It is unknown which commonly used Alzheimer disease (AD) biomarker values—baseline or progression—best predict longitudinal cognitive decline.

Methods

526 subjects from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). ADNI composite memory and executive scores were the primary outcomes. Individual‐specific slope of the longitudinal trajectory of each biomarker was first estimated. These estimates and observed baseline biomarker values were used as predictors of cognitive declines. Variability in cognitive declines explained by baseline biomarker values was compared with variability explained by biomarker progression values.

Results

About 40% of variability in memory and executive function declines was explained by ventricular volume progression among mild cognitive impairment patients. A total of 84% of memory and 65% of executive function declines were explained by fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET) score progression and ventricular volume progression, respectively, among AD patients.

Conclusions

For most biomarkers, biomarker progressions explained higher variability in cognitive decline than biomarker baseline values. This has important implications for clinical trials targeted to modify AD biomarkers.
At the interface of sensory and motor dysfunctions and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Albers Mark W. , Gilmore Grover C. , Kaye Jeffrey , Murphy Claire , Wingfield Arthur , Bennett David A. , Boxer Adam L. , Buchman Aron S. , Cruickshanks Karen J. , Devanand Davangere P. , Duffy Charles J. , Gall Christine M. , Gates George A. , Granholm Ann‐Charlotte , Hensch Takao , Holtzer Roee , Hyman Bradley T. , Lin Frank R. , McKee Ann C. , Morris John C. , Petersen Ronald C. , Silbert Lisa C. , Struble Robert G. , Trojanowski John Q. , Verghese Joe , Wilson Donald A. , Xu Shunbin , Zhang Li I.
Published: July 2014

Recent evidence indicates that sensory and motor changes may precede the cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by several years and may signify increased risk of developing AD. Traditionally, sensory and motor dysfunctions in aging and AD have been studied separately. To ascertain the evidence supporting the relationship between age‐related changes in sensory and motor systems and the development of AD and to facilitate communication between several disciplines, the National Institute on Aging held an exploratory workshop titled “Sensory and Motor Dysfunctions in Aging and AD.” The scientific sessions of the workshop focused on age‐related and neuropathologic changes in the olfactory, visual, auditory, and motor systems, followed by extensive discussion and hypothesis generation related to the possible links among sensory, cognitive, and motor domains in aging and AD. Based on the data presented and discussed at this workshop, it is clear that sensory and motor regions of the central nervous system are affected by AD pathology and that interventions targeting amelioration of sensory‐motor deficits in AD may enhance patient function as AD progresses.
Patterns of DNA damage response in intracranial germ cell tumors versus glioblastomas reflect cell of origin rather than brain environment: Implications for the anti‐tumor barrier concept and treatment
Authors: Bartkova Jirina , Hoei-Hansen Christina E. , Krizova Katerina , Hamerlik Petra , Skakkebæk Niels E. , Rajpert-De Meyts Ewa , Bartek Jiri
Published: July 2014

The DNA damage response (DDR) machinery becomes commonly activated in response to oncogenes and during early stages of development of solid malignancies, with an exception of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs). The active DDR signaling evokes cell death or senescence but this anti‐tumor barrier can be breached by defects in DDR factors, such as the ATM‐Chk2‐p53 pathway, thereby allowing tumor progression. The DDR barrier is strongly activated in brain tumors, particularly gliomas, due to oxidative damage and replication stress. Here, we took advantage of rare human primary intracranial germ cell tumors (PIGCTs), to address the roles of cell‐intrinsic factors including cell of origin, versus local tissue environment, in the constitutive DDR activation in vivo. Immunohistochemical analysis of 7 biomarkers on a series of 21 PIGCTs (germinomas and other subtypes), 20 normal brain specimens and 20 glioblastomas, revealed the following: i) The overall DDR signaling (γH2AX) and activation of the ATM‐Chk2‐p53 pathway were very low among the PIGCTs, reminiscent of TGCTs, and contrasting sharply with strong DDR activation in glioblastomas; ii) Except for one case of embryonal carcinoma, there were no clear aberrations in the ATM‐Chk2‐p53 pathway components among the PIGCT cohort; iii) Subsets of PIGCTs showed unusual cytosolic localization of Chk2 and/or ATM. Collectively, these results show that PIGCTs mimic the DDR activation patterns of their gonadal germ cell tumor counterparts, rather than the brain tumors with which they share the tissue environment. Hence cell‐intrinsic factors and cell of origin dictate the extent of DDR barrier activation and also the ensuing pressure to select for DDR defects. Our data provide conceptually important insights into the role of DNA damage checkpoints in intracranial tumorigenesis, with implications for the differential biological responses of diverse tumor types to endogenous stress as well as to genotoxic treatments such as ionizing radiation or chemotherapy.
NEWLY EXCAVATED TEXTS IN THE DIGITAL AGE: REFLECTIONS ON NEW RESOURCES
Authors: Pham Lee-moi , Huang Kuan-yun
Published: July 2014

Based on a special issue entitled “Newly Excavated Texts in the Digital Age,” volume 21.2 (June 2011) of the Newsletter of the Institute of Chinese Literature and Philosophy, Academia Sinica (Zhongyang yanjiu yuan Zhongguo wen zhe yanjiu suo tongxun中央研究院中國文哲研究所通訊), this article reflects on the various digital resources now being developed at institutions in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and elsewhere, looking, in turn, at topics related to the graphic form of characters, the relation between character and word, and the question of context. In addition, the article considers the web forum, a platform of research and discussion that is increasingly becoming a part of scholarly exchange.
Nonlinear instability of a supersonic boundary layer with two-dimensional roughness
Authors: Marxen Olaf , Iaccarino Gianluca , Shaqfeh Eric S. G.
Published: July 2014

Nonlinear instability in a supersonic boundary layer at Mach 4.8 with two-dimensional roughness is investigated by means of spatial direct numerical simulations (DNS). It was previously found that an important effect of a two-dimensional roughness is to increase significantly the amplitude of two-dimensional waves downstream of the roughness in a certain frequency band through enhanced instability and transient growth, while waves outside this band are damped. Here, we investigate the nonlinear secondary instability induced by a large-amplitude two-dimensional wave, which has received a significant boost in amplitude from this additional roughness-induced amplification. Both subharmonic and fundamental secondary excitation of the oblique secondary waves are considered. We found that even though the growth rate of the secondary perturbations increases compared to their linear amplification, only in some of the cases was a fully resonant state attained by the streamwise end of the domain. A parametric investigation of the amplitude of the primary wave, the phase difference between the primary and the secondary waves, and the spanwise wavenumber has also been performed. The transient growth experienced by the primary wave was found to not influence the secondary instability for most parameter combinations. For unfavourable phase relations between the primary and the secondary waves, the phase speed of the secondary wave decreases significantly, and this hampers its growth. Finally, we also investigated the strongly nonlinear stage, for which both the primary and the subharmonic secondary waves had a comparable, finite amplitude. In this case, the growth of the primary waves was found to vanish downstream of the transient growth region, resulting in a lower amplitude than in the absence of the large-amplitude secondary wave. This feedback also decreases the amplification rate of the secondary wave.
Free-stream coherent structures in parallel boundary-layer flows
Authors: Deguchi Kengo , Hall Philip
Published: July 2014

Our concern in this paper is with high-Reynolds-number nonlinear equilibrium solutions of the Navier–Stokes equations for boundary-layer flows. Here we consider the asymptotic suction boundary layer (ASBL) which we take as a prototype parallel boundary layer. Solutions of the equations of motion are obtained using a homotopy continuation from two known types of solutions for plane Couette flow. At high Reynolds numbers, it is shown that the first type of solution takes the form of a vortex–wave interaction (VWI) state, see Hall & Smith (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 227, 1991, pp. 641–666), and is located in the main part of the boundary layer. On the other hand, here the second type is found to support an equilibrium solution of the unit-Reynolds-number Navier–Stokes equations in a layer located a distance of $\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}O(\ln \mathit{Re})$ from the wall. Here $\mathit{Re}$ is the Reynolds number based on the free-stream speed and the unperturbed boundary-layer thickness. The streaky field produced by the interaction grows exponentially below the layer and takes its maximum size within the unperturbed boundary layer. The results suggest the possibility of two distinct types of streaky coherent structures existing, possibly simultaneously, in disturbed boundary layers.
Evaluation of purified 27.5 kDa protoscolex antigen-based ELISA for the detection of circulating antigens and antibodies in sheep and human hydatidosis
Authors: Bauomi I.R. , El-Amir A.M. , Fahmy A.M. , Zalat R.S. , Diab T.M.
Published: July 2014

Hydatidosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus, and the diagnosis of hydatidosis to date remains unresolved despite the development of many serological techniques. The present study aimed to develop an antigen-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using IgG anti-27.5 kDa protoscolex antigen (27.5 PA) for measuring circulating protoscolex antigen (CPA), for comparison with an antibody detection assay, in sera of naturally infected sheep and humans in highly endemic areas in Egypt. In sheep, the sensitivity of ELISA in detecting anti-27.5 PA IgG and CPA was 75.0 and 60.0%, respectively, and the recorded specificity was 80.0 and 88.0%, respectively. In humans, the sensitivity of ELISA in detecting anti-27.5 PA IgG and CPA was 62.5 and 52.5%, respectively, while the specificity of the assay was 66.7 and 75.0%, respectively. In conclusion, an antibody detection assay is still superior and is more sensitive than an antigen detection assay, especially in diagnosing an active infection in which hydatid cysts are predominant. An antigen detection assay may be a useful approach to assessment of the efficacy of treatment, especially after removal of the cyst. Further studies are recommended to improve the diagnostic efficacy of an antigen-based ELISA method by using a highly purified recombinant antigen.
Anthelmintic resistance of intestinal nematodes to ivermectin and pyrantel in Estonian horses
Authors: Lassen B. , Peltola S.-M.
Published: July 2014

There is evidence of resistance in horses to anthelmintic treatment using ivermectin and pyrantel. However, little information is available about the parasites, treatment practices or anthelmintic resistance in the horse population in Estonia. In the present study, we examined 41 trotting and riding horses aged < 3 years from four stables in Estonia. Faecal samples were collected, and horses were selected for treatment if the nematode egg count per gram faeces exceeded 200. Horses (n= 32) that shed strongyle-type eggs were treated with pyrantel, whereas Parascaris equorum-positive animals received ivermectin. Up to 78% of horses required anthelmintic treatment and the efficiency of the anthelmintics was evaluated using a faecal egg count reduction test. Resistance of P. equorum was observed in 50% of horses treated with ivermectin and of strongyles in 27% of horses treated with pyrantel. Ivermectin treatment resulted in a mean reduction of 100% for strongyle eggs and an 89% reduction in P. equorum, and pyrantel-treated horses exhibited an 88% reduction in strongyle eggs. These results are considered to be the first indication of resistance to pyrantel, but further studies of ivermectin resistance are required. According to questionnaires completed by the owners of horses, resistance might be explained by a lack of evidence-based strategies, a strong preference for using ivermectin and possibly a subjective evaluation of the body weight of horses.
Ideas and Leaders in Contentious Politics: One Parish Priest in El Salvador's Popular Movement
Authors: SANCHEZ PETER M.
Published: July 2014

This paper examines the actions of one Salvadorean priest – Padre David Rodríguez – in one parish – Tecoluca – to underscore the importance of religious leadership in the rise of El Salvador's contentious political movement that began in the early 1970s, when the guerrilla organisations were only just beginning to develop. Catholic leaders became engaged in promoting contentious politics, however, only after the Church had experienced an ideological conversion, commonly referred to as liberation theology. A focus on one priest, in one parish, allows for generalisation, since scores of priests, nuns and lay workers in El Salvador followed the same injustice frame and tactics that generated extensive political mobilisation throughout the country. While structural conditions, collective action and resource mobilisation are undoubtedly necessary, the case of religious leaders in El Salvador suggests that ideas and leadership are of vital importance for the rise of contentious politics at a particular historical moment.
Landmark detection methods for in-pipe robot traveling in urban gas pipelines
Authors: Lee Dong-Hyuk , Moon Hyungpil , Choi Hyouk Ryeol
Published: July 2014

Elbows and branches in pipelines produce unique image patterns, which can be used as landmarks for autonomous navigation inside the pipelines. This paper presents two landmark detection methods, known as shadow-based method and laser projection method. The first method uses the landmark's unique patterns of shadow produced by the robot's illuminator. The other method exploits special line features generated by its own line-laser beam projector. The basic algorithms for extracting the landmarks are given and special sensor mechanisms are addressed respectively. Finally, the detection performances of each method are validated in various pipeline conditions by using an in-pipe robot, called MRINSPECT-V.
Fault tolerance criteria and walking capability analysis of a novel parallel-parallel hexapod break walking robot
Authors: Pan Yang , Gao Feng , Du Hui
Published: July 2014

Fault tolerance is a very important issue for legged robots, especially in some harsh environments. One of the most fragile parts is the actuation system. There are two common faults of robot actuators: (1) the motor is locked and could not move anymore; (2) the motor is uncontrollable and can be treated as a passive joint. In this paper, we first discuss all fault combinations of a single leg of a hexapod walking robot with parallel-parallel mechanism topology. Then, the leg tolerable criterion is brought out, which defines whether a leg is fault tolerant. After that, the fault tolerance of the whole robot is researched, and we found that the robot can walk with one tolerable leg or two opposite tolerable legs. Finally, relative simulation results are given, which show the robot walk with one or two broken legs.
A serial of novel four degrees of freedom parallel mechanisms with large rotational workspace
Authors: Guo Sheng , Ye Wei , Qu Haibo , Zhang Dan , Fang Yuefa
Published: July 2014

In this paper, a class of novel four Degrees of Freedom (DOF) non-overconstrained parallel mechanisms with large rotational workspace is presented based on screw theory. First, the conflict between the number of independent constraints applied on the moving platform and the number of kinematic limbs for 4-DOF non-overconstrained parallel mechanism is identified. To solve this conflict, the platform partition method is introduced, and two secondary platforms are employed in each of the parallel mechanisms. Then, the motion requirements of the secondary platforms are analyzed and all the possible kinematic chains are enumerated. The geometrical assembly conditions of all possible secondary limbs are analyzed and some typical non-overconstrained parallel mechanisms are generated. In each of the parallel mechanisms, a planetary gear train is used to connect both of the secondary platforms. The large rotational workspace of the moving platform is obtained due to the relative motion of the two secondary platforms. Finally, the kinematics analysis of a typical parallel mechanism is conducted.
STABILIZING PERFORMANCE IN NETWORKS OF QUEUES WITH TIME-VARYING ARRIVAL RATES
Authors: Liu Yunan , Whitt Ward
Published: July 2014

This paper investigates extensions to feed-forward queueing networks of an algorithm to set staffing levels (the number of servers) to stabilize performance % at Quality of Service (QoS) targets in anMt/GI/st+GImulti-server queue with a time-varying arrival rate. The model has a non-homogeneous Poisson process (NHPP), customer abandonment, and non-exponential service and patience distributions. For a single queue, simulation experiments showed that the algorithm successfully stabilizes abandonment probabilities and expected delays over a wide range of Quality-of-Service (QoS) targets. A limit theorem showed that stable performance at fixed QoS targets is achieved asymptotically as the scale increases (by letting the arrival rate grow while holding the service and patience distributions fixed). Here we extend that limit theorem to a feed-forward queueing network. However, these fixed QoS targets provide low QoS as the scale increases. Hence, these limits primarily support the algorithm with a low QoS target. For a high QoS target, effectiveness depends on the NHPP property, but the departure process never is exactly an NHPP. Thus, we investigate when a departure process can be regarded as approximately an NHPP. We show that index of dispersion for counts is effective for determining when a departure process is approximately an NHPP in this setting. In the important common case when all queues have high QoS targets, we show that both: (i) the departure process is approximately an NHPP from this perspective and (ii) the algorithm is effective.
A Symbolic Method to Analyse Patterns in Plant Structure
Authors: LOI C. , COURNÈDE P.-H. , FRANÇON J.
Published: July 2014

Formal grammars such as L-systems have long been used to describe plant growth dynamics. In this article, they are used for a new purpose. The aim is to build a symbolic method that enables the computation of the stochastic distribution associated with the number of complex structures in plants whose organogenesis is driven by a multitype branching process. For that purpose, a new combinatorial framework is set in which plant structure is coded by a Dyck word. Moreover, organogenesis is represented by stochastic F0L-systems. In doing so, the problem is equivalent to determining the distribution of patterns in random words generated by a stochastic F0L-system. This method finds interesting applications in the parameter identification of stochastic models of plant development.
Part Sizes of Smooth Supercritical Compositional Structures
Authors: BENDER EDWARD A. , GAO ZHICHENG
Published: July 2014

We define the notion of smooth supercritical compositional structures. Two well-known examples are compositions and graphs of given genus. The ‘parts’ of a graph are the subgraphs that are maximal trees. We show that large part sizes have asymptotically geometric distributions. This leads to asymptotically independent Poisson variables for numbers of various large parts. In many cases this leads to asymptotic formulas for the probability of being gap-free and for the expected values of the largest part sizes, number of distinct parts and number of parts of multiplicityk.
On Irreducible Maps and Slices
Authors: BOUTTIER J. , GUITTER E.
Published: July 2014

We consider the problem of enumeratingd-irreducible maps,i.e., planar maps all of whose cycles have length at leastd, and such that any cycle of lengthdis the boundary of a face of degreed. We develop two approaches in parallel: the natural approach via substitution, where these maps are obtained from general maps by a replacement of alld-cycles by elementary faces, and a bijective approach via slice decomposition, which consists in cutting the maps along shortest paths. Both lead to explicit expressions for the generating functions ofd-irreducible maps with controlled face degrees, summarized in some elegant ‘pointing formula’. We provide an equivalent description ofd-irreducible slices in terms of so-calledd-oriented trees. We finally show that irreducible maps give rise to a hierarchy of discrete integrable equations which include equations encountered previously in the context of naturally embedded trees.
Suboptimal Decision Making in Borderline Personality Disorder: Effect of Potential Losses
Authors: Sánchez-Navarro Juan P. , Weller Joshua A. , López-Navarro Jose M. , Martínez-Selva Jose M. , Bechara Antoine
Published: July 2014

This research explored the underlying processes mediating risky decisions for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). We tested whether BPD patients were more apt to take risks compared to a matched comparison group. We used two controlled tasks designed to assess risky decision-making, both to achieve gains and to avoid losses. Overall, BPD patients showed increased risk-taking compared to the comparison group (p = .011, η2 = .224), and were especially likely to be risk-seeking when the decision was framed as a potential loss (p < .0001, d = 1.77). When the outcome involved pure losses, BPD patients were insensitive to the relative expected value between choice options resulting in suboptimal decision making (p = .004, d = 1.24), but did not differ from the comparison group when taking risks to achieve gains (p = .603, d = 0.21). We discuss these results in the context of behavioral and neuropsychiatric research suggesting abnormalities BPD patients’ ability to effectively regulate affect.
Optimal Number of Strata for the Stratified Methods in Computerized Adaptive Testing
Authors: Barrada Juan Ramón , Abad Francisco José , Olea Julio
Published: July 2014

Test security can be a major problem in computerized adaptive testing, as examinees can share information about the items they receive. Of the different item selection rules proposed to alleviate this risk, stratified methods are among those that have received most attention. In these methods, only low discriminative items can be presented at the beginning of the test and the mean information of the items increases as the test goes on. To do so, the item bank must be divided into several strata according to the information of the items. To date, there is no clear guidance about the optimal number of strata into which the item bank should be split. In this study, we will simulate conditions with different numbers of strata, from 1 (no stratification) to a number of strata equal to test length (maximum level of stratification) while manipulating the maximum exposure rate that no item should surpass (rmax) in its whole domain. In this way, we can plot the relation between test security and accuracy, making it possible to determine the number of strata that leads to better security while holding constant measurement accuracy. Our data indicates that the best option is to stratify into as many strata as possible.
Mental Associations Between Law and Competitiveness: a Cross-Cultural Investigation
Authors: Aguilar Pilar , Callan Mitchell J. , Dawtry Rael J.
Published: July 2014

Previous research suggests that individuals from countries that adopt an adversarial legal system, such as Canada or United Kingdom, mentally associate “law” more strongly with concepts related to competition than concepts related to cooperation. We examined whether people from a country with a non-adversarial legal system show similar mental associations. Participants from Spain and the UK completed a Single-Category Implicit Association Test. Spanish participants mentally associated the law with competition less strongly than participants from the UK (the average D-score was significantly greater than zero in the predicted direction, t(189) = 8.16, p < .001; d=1.18). Exploratory analysis also suggested that this difference between the countries was stronger among participants who believed that the method of legal practice in their own country was more adversarial. Moreover, perceiving the legal system as adversarial predicted automatic associations between law and competition for UK but not for Spanish participants. These findings suggest that legal system plays a relevant role in shaping not only individuals’ actions, but their cognitive processes.
Die Erfassung elterlicher Belastung mit dem Eltern- Belastungs-Screening zur Kindeswohlgefährdung (EBSK)
Authors: Eichler Anna K. , Glaubitz Katharina A. , Hartmann Luisa C. , Spangler Gottfried
Published: July 2014

Elterliche Belastung ist zum einen in klinischen Settings (z. B. Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie) erhöht und geht mit mehr Erlebens- und Verhaltensproblemen beim Kind einher. Zum anderen kann elterliche Belastung aber auch mit einer negativ verzerrten Wahrnehmung der Eltern hinsichtlich kindlichen Problemverhaltens einhergehen. Die Zusammenhänge wurden an einer Normal- (N = 320) und einer klinischen (N = 75) Stichprobe unter Einsatz des Eltern-Belastungs-Screening zur Kindeswohlgefährdung (EBSK, Deegener, Spangler, Körner & Becker, 2009 ) zur Erfassung der elterlichen Belastung untersucht. Entsprechend der Annahmen fiel die elterliche Belastung in der klinischen Stichprobe höher aus. In beiden Stichproben ging elterliche Belastung mit mehr von den Eltern berichteten Erlebens- und Verhaltensproblemen beim Kind einher. Waren die Eltern belastet, berichteten die Kinder deutlich weniger Probleme bei sich selbst als von den Eltern wahrgenommen. Die Meinung eines dritten Außenstehenden, z. B. Lehrer, wurde in der vorliegenden Studie nicht miteinbezogen und die Untersuchung steht noch aus. Methodische Einschränkungen und Ableitungen für die Anwendung wurden diskutiert.
Charakteristika der meist zitierten englischsprachigen Zeitschriftenbeiträge der Publikationsjahre 1981 bis 2010 aus der Psychologie der deutschsprachigen Länder
Authors: Krampen Günter , Schui Gabriel , Ferring Dieter , Bauer Hans P. W.
Published: July 2014

Präsentiert werden die Befunde einer publikationsbasierten Zitationsanalyse für 28.383 englischsprachige Zeitschriftenbeiträge, die aus der Psychologie der deutschsprachigen Länder zwischen 1981 und 2010 publiziert wurden. Verwendet wurde das Web of Science, von dem knapp 90 % dieser Publikationen abgedeckt werden. Die Häufigkeitsverteilung der Fremdzitations-Anzahl ist extrem linksschief verteilt und zeigt, dass zirka 20 % dieser Publikationen nie, 60 % zwischen 1 Mal und 22 Mal und 20 % mehr als 22 Mal von anderen Autoren zitiert werden. Das Alter der Publikation und die Zitationsanzahl sind signifikant, aber numerisch niedrig rangkorreliert. Nach dem daher vertretbaren Kriterium der Anzahl der Fremdzitationen pro Jahr seit Drucklegung des Beitrages wurden die 107 meist zitierten Beiträge (TOP-107) identifiziert, die die ersten 48 Rangplätze belegen. Deren Charakteristika werden mit Bezug auf die (Ko‐)Autorenschaften, deren Internationalität, die vertretenen psychologischen Teildisziplinen und die Studienart (z. B. empirisch versus nicht-empirisch) beschrieben. Die Beschränkungen und die Möglichkeiten von Zitationsanalysen werden diskutiert, wobei ihre rationale Integration in empirisch gestützte Peer-Review-Prozeduren favorisiert wird.
Implementation wirksamer Handlungskonzepte im Bildungsbereich als Forschungsaufgabe
Authors: Hasselhorn Marcus , Köller Olaf , Maaz Kai , Zimmer Karin
Published: July 2014

Auch im Bildungsbereich wird Qualitätssicherung oftmals über Innovationen, Neuerungen und Reformen erreicht. Die Überprüfung, ob ein innovativer Ansatz das Potenzial hat, in der Bildungspraxis die gewünschten Wirkungen zu erzielen, erfolgt in der Regel über die Umsetzung wissenschaftlich begründeter Ansätze in Modellversuchen. Über die Implementation, also den Prozess der Verstetigung einer modellerprobten Reform in der Fläche ist bisher kaum etwas bekannt. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird zunächst skizziert, was unter Innovation und Implementation im Bildungsbereich zu verstehen ist. Anschließend wird zusammen getragen, was zum Erfolg von Implementationen beiträgt und vor welchen Herausforderungen Implementationen im Bildungsbereich stehen. Der Beitrag mündet in ein Plädoyer für das Schaffen einer eigenständigen Implementationsforschung unter Einbindung psychologischer Expertise im engeren Sinne.
Adequacy of a Compartment Model for CMRO2 Quantitation Using 15O-Labeled Oxygen and PET: A Clearance Measurement of 15O-Radioactivity Following Intracarotid Bolus Injection of 15O-Labeled Oxyhemoglobin on Macaca Fascicularis
Authors: Iida Hidehiro , Iguchi Satoshi , Teramoto Noboru , Koshino Kazuhiro , Zeniya Tsutomu , Yamamoto Akihide , Kudomi Nobuyuki , Moriguchi Tetsuaki , Hori Yuki , Enmi Junichiro , Kawashima Hidekazu , Shah Nadim Joni , Nakagawara Jyoji
Published: July 2014

We aimed at evaluating the adequacy of the commonly employed compartmental model for quantitation of cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) using 15O-labeled oxygen (15O2) and positron emission tomography (PET). Sequential PET imaging was carried out on monkeys following slow bolus injection of blood samples containing 15O2–oxyhemoglobin (15O2–Hb), 15O-labeled water (H215O), and C15O-labeled hemoglobin (C15O–Hb) into the internal carotid artery (ICA). Clearance slopes were assessed in the middle cerebral artery territory of the injected hemisphere. The time–activity curves were bi-exponential for both 15O2–Hb and H215O. Single exponential fitting to the early (5 to 40 seconds) and late (80 to 240 seconds) periods after the peak was performed and the 15O2–Hb and H215O results were compared. It was found that a significant difference between the clearance rates of the 15O2–Hb and H215O injections is unlikely, which supports the mathematical model that is widely used to describe the kinetics of 15O2–Hb and H215O in cerebral tissues and is the basis of recent approaches to simultaneously assess CMRO2 and cerebral blood flow in a single PET session. However, it should be noted that more data are necessary to unequivocally confirm the result.
Neuronal NAMPT is Released after Cerebral Ischemia and Protects against White Matter Injury
Authors: Jing Zheng , Xing Juan , Chen Xinzhi , Stetler Ruth A , Weng Zhongfang , Gan Yu , Zhang Feng , Gao Yanqin , Chen Jun , Leak Rehana K , Cao Guodong
Published: July 2014

Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) has been implicated in neuroprotection against ischemic brain injury, but the mechanism underlying its protective effect remains largely unknown. To further examine the protective effect of NAMPT against ischemic stroke and its potential mechanism of action, we generated a novel neuron-specific NAMPT transgenic mouse line. Transgenic mice and wild-type littermates were subjected to transient occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCAO) for 60 minutes. Neuron-specific NAMPT overexpression significantly reduced infarct volume by 65% ( P = 0.018) and improved long-term neurologic outcomes ( P ≤ 0.05) compared with littermates. Interestingly, neuronal overexpression of NAMPT increased the area of myelinated fibers in the striatum and corpus callosum, indicating that NAMPT protects against white matter injury. The mechanism of protection appeared to be through extracellular release of NAMPT. First, NAMPT was secreted into the extracellular medium by primary cortical neurons exposed to ischemia-like oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) in vitro. Second, conditioned medium from NAMPT-overexpressing neurons exposed to OGD protected cultured oligodendrocytes from OGD. Third, the protective effects of conditioned medium were abolished by antibody-mediated NAMPT depletion, strongly suggesting that the protective effect is mediated by the extracellular NAMPT released into in the medium. These data suggest a novel neuroprotective role for secreted NAMPT in the protection of white matter after ischemic injury.
Use of Diffusion Tensor Imaging to Assess the Impact of Normobaric Hyperoxia within At-Risk Pericontusional Tissue after Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Veenith Tonny V , Carter Eleanor L , Grossac Julia , Newcombe Virginia F , Outtrim Joanne G , Nallapareddy Sridhar , Lupson Victoria , Correia Marta M , Mada Marius M , Williams Guy B , Menon David K , Coles Jonathan P
Published: July 2014

Ischemia and metabolic dysfunction remain important causes of neuronal loss after head injury, and we have shown that normobaric hyperoxia may rescue such metabolic compromise. This study examines the impact of hyperoxia within injured brain using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Fourteen patients underwent DTI at baseline and after 1 hour of 80% oxygen. Using the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) we assessed the impact of hyperoxia within contusions and a 1cm border zone of normal appearing pericontusion, and within a rim of perilesional reduced ADC consistent with cytotoxic edema and metabolic compromise. Seven healthy volunteers underwent imaging at 21%, 60%, and 100% oxygen. In volunteers there was no ADC change with hyperoxia, and contusion and pericontusion ADC values were higher than volunteers ( P<0.01). There was no ADC change after hyperoxia within contusion, but an increase within pericontusion ( P<0.05). We identified a rim of perilesional cytotoxic edema in 13 patients, and hyperoxia resulted in an ADC increase towards normal ( P=0.02). We demonstrate that hyperoxia may result in benefit within the perilesional rim of cytotoxic edema. Future studies should address whether a longer period of hyperoxia has a favorable impact on the evolution of tissue injury.
Lipocalin-Type Prostaglandin D Synthase Scavenges Biliverdin in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Inui Takashi , Mase Mitsuhito , Shirota Ryoko , Nagashima Mariko , Okada Tetsuya , Urade Yoshihiro
Published: July 2014

Lipocalin-type prostaglandin (PG) D synthase (L-PGDS) is the second major protein in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and belongs to the lipocalin superfamily composed of various secretory lipophilic ligand transporter proteins. However, the endogenous ligand of L-PGDS has not yet been elucidated. In this study, we purified L-PGDS from the CSF of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients. Lipocalin-type PG D synthase showed absorbance spectra with major peaks at 280 and 392 nm and a minor peak at around 660 nm. The absorbance at 392 nm of L-PGDS increased from 1 to 9 days and almost disappeared at 2 months after SAH, whereas the L-PGDS activity decreased from 1 to 7 days and recovered to normal at 2 months after SAH. These results indicate that some chromophore had accumulated in the CSF after SAH and bound to L-PGDS, thus inactivating it. Matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry of L-PGDS after digestion of it with endoproteinase Lys-C revealed that L-PGDS had covalently bound biliverdin, a by-product of heme breakdown. These results suggest that L-PGDS acted as a scavenger of biliverdin, which is a molecule not found in normal CSF. This is the first report of identification of a pathophysiologically important endogenous ligand for this lipocalin superfamily protein in humans.
Prion neuropathology follows the accumulation of alternate prion protein isoforms after infective titre has peaked
Authors: Sandberg Malin K. , Al-Doujaily Huda , Sharps Bernadette , De Oliveira Michael Wiggins , Schmidt Christian , Richard-Londt Angela , Lyall Sarah , Linehan Jacqueline M. , Brandner Sebastian , Wadsworth Jonathan D. F. , Clarke Anthony R. , Collinge John
Published: July 2014

Prions are lethal infectious agents thought to consist of multi-chain forms (PrPSc) of misfolded cellular prion protein (PrPC). Prion propagation proceeds in two distinct mechanistic phases: an exponential phase 1, which rapidly reaches a fixed level of infectivity irrespective of PrPC expression level, and a plateau (phase 2), which continues until clinical onset with duration inversely proportional to PrPC expression level. We hypothesized that neurotoxicity relates to distinct neurotoxic species produced following a pathway switch when prion levels saturate. Here we show a linear increase of proteinase K-sensitive PrP isoforms distinct from classical PrPSc at a rate proportional to PrPC concentration, commencing at the phase transition and rising until clinical onset. The unaltered level of total PrP during phase 1, when prion infectivity increases a million-fold, indicates that prions comprise a small minority of total PrP. This is consistent with PrPC concentration not being rate limiting to exponential prion propagation and neurotoxicity relating to critical concentrations of alternate PrP isoforms whose production is PrPC concentration dependent.
Displacive-type ferroelectricity from magnetic correlations within spin-chain
Authors: Basu Tathamay , Kishore V. V. Ravi , Gohil Smita , Singh Kiran , Mohapatra N. , Bhattacharjee S. , Gonde Babu , Lalla N. P. , Mahadevan Priya , Ghosh Shankar , Sampathkumaran E. V.
Published: July 2014

Observation of ferroelectricity among non-d0 systems, which was believed for a long time an unrealistic concept, led to various proposals for the mechanisms to explain the same (i.e. magnetically induced ferroelectricity) during last decade. Here, we provide support for ferroelectricity of a displacive-type possibly involving magnetic ions due to short-range magnetic correlations within a spin-chain, through the demonstration of magnetoelectric coupling in a Haldane spin-chain compound Er2BaNiO5 well above its Néel temperature of (TN = ) 32 K. There is a distinct evidence for electric polarization setting in near 60 K around which there is an evidence for short-range magnetic correlations from other experimental methods. Raman studies also establish a softening of phonon modes in the same temperature (T) range and T-dependent x-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns also reveal lattice parameters anomalies. Density-functional theory based calculations establish a displacive component (similar to d0-ness) as the root-cause of ferroelectricity from (magnetic) NiO6 chain, thereby offering a new route to search for similar materials near room temperature to enable applications.
Cobalt and Nickel
Authors: Chivers Peter T.
Published: July 2014

Cobalt and nickel play key roles in biological systems as cofactors in a small number of important enzymes. The majority of these are found in microbes. Evidence for direct roles for Ni(II) and Co(II) enzymes in higher organisms is limited, with the exception of the well-known requirement for the cobalt-containing vitamin B12 cofactor and the Ni-dependent urease in plants. Nonetheless, nickel in particular plays a key role in human health because of its essential role in microbes that inhabit various growth niches within the body. These roles can be beneficial, as can be seen with the anaerobic production and consumption of H2 in the digestive tract by bacteria and archaea that results in increased yields of short-chain fatty acids. In other cases, nickel has an established role in the establishment of pathogenic infection (Helicobacter pylori urease and colonization of the stomach). The synthesis of Co- and Ni-containing enzymes requires metal import from the extracellular milieu followed by the targeting of these metals to the appropriate protein and enzymes involved in metallocluster or cofactor biosynthesis. These metals are toxic in excess so their levels must be regulated carefully. This complex pathway of metalloenzyme synthesis and intracellular homeostasis requires proteins that can specifically recognize these metals in a hierarchical manner. This chapter focuses on quantitative and structural details of the cobalt and nickel binding sites in transport, trafficking and regulatory proteins involved in cobalt and nickel metabolism in microbes.