bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The serotonin transporter gene polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and affective symptoms among women diagnosed with borderline personality disorder
Authors: Maurex L. , Zaboli G. , Öhman A. , Åsberg M. , Leopardi R. 
Published: August 2009

AbstractGene variants of the serotonin transporter have been associated with vulnerability to affective disorders. In particular, the presence of one or two copies of the short (s) allele of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism has been associated with reduced serotonin transporter expression and function, and vulnerability to affective disorders. To test for an association between variants of the serotonin transporter gene polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and relevant clinical features of borderline personality disorder (BPD), a psychiatric disorder with symptoms characteristic for serotonin dysfunction, 77 women with BPD were genotyped in the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism. They rated their subjective experience of borderline-specific, depressive, anxious and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and were interviewed about lifetime incidence of suicide attempts and self-harming acts. Carriers of two s alleles of the 5-HTTLPR reported more symptoms of borderline, depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviours, but not of suicidal and self-injury behaviour, compared to carriers of a long (l) allele. This indicates that the 5-HTTLPR ss homozygous genotype might influence serotonin function affecting susceptibility to both borderline-specific, depressive, anxious and obsessive-compulsive symptoms in BPD, and leading to a more severe symptomatology related to these clinical features. Further, this suggests that 5-HTT gene variants may not be as influential on suicidal and self-injury behaviour in BPD.
Extent and predictors of stigma experienced by patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Świtaj P. , Wciórka J. , Smolarska-Świtaj J. , Grygiel P. 
Published: August 2009

AbstractBackgroundSchizophrenia is regarded as one of the most stigmatized mental illnesses. Relatively few studies have investigated actual stigma experiences among people with schizophrenia and the factors which may contribute to it.AimsThis cross-sectional study assesses the extent of stigma experienced by patients with schizophrenia and attempts to establish its clinical and sociodemographic predictors.MethodsA total of 153 subjects with schizophrenia (62 outpatients and 91 inpatients) were evaluated with the use of the Stigma section of the Consumer Experiences of Stigma Questionnaire (CESQ) and several instruments measuring their subjective quality of life, social functioning and severity of psychiatric symptoms.ResultsStigmatization experiences were common among respondents who most frequently reported having concealed their illness (86%), witnessed others saying offensive things about the mentally ill (69%), worried about being viewed unfavorably (63%) and been treated as less competent (59%). Higher levels of stigma were related to lower subjective quality of life and younger age of illness onset. No significant associations were found between stigma and symptoms or level of social functioning.ConclusionOur findings point at the reduced life satisfaction as a key aspect of the subjective experience of the stigma of schizophrenia.
IMPACT OF SEASON AND HARVEST FREQUENCY ON BIOMASS AND ESSENTIAL OIL YIELDS OF ARTEMISIA HERBA-ALBA CULTIVATED IN SOUTHERN TUNISIA
Authors: MIGHRI HEDI , AKROUT AHMED , CASANOVA JOSEPH , TOMI FELIX , NEFFATI MOHAMED 
Published: August 2009

SUMMARYArtemisia herba-alba Asso has been successfully cultivated in the Tunisian arid zone. However, information regarding the effects of the harvest frequency on its biomass and essential oil yields is very limited. In this study, the effects of three different frequencies of harvesting the upper half of the A. herba-alba plant tuft were compared. The harvest treatments were: harvesting the same individual plants at the flowering stage annually; harvesting the same individual plants at the full vegetative growth stage annually and harvesting the same individual plants every six months. Statistical analyses indicated that all properties studied were affected by the harvest frequency. Essential oil yield, depended both on the dry biomass and its essential oil content, and was significantly higher from plants harvested annually at the flowering stage than the other two treatments. The composition of the β- and α-thujone-rich oils did not vary throughout the experimental period.
Are non-abstract brain representations of number developmentally plausible?
Authors: Ansari Daniel 
Published: August 2009

AbstractThe theory put forward by Cohen Kadosh & Walsh (CK&W) proposing that semantic representations of numerical magnitude in the parietal cortex are format-specific, does not specify how these representations might be constructed over the course of learning and development. The developmental predictions of the non-abstract theory are discussed and the need for a developmental perspective on the abstract versus non-abstract question highlighted.
The case for a notation-independent representation of number
Authors: Dehaene Stanislas 
Published: August 2009

AbstractCohen Kadosh & Walsh (CK&W) neglect the solid empirical evidence for a convergence of notation-specific representations onto a shared representation of numerical magnitude. Subliminal priming reveals cross-notation and cross-modality effects, contrary to CK&W's prediction that automatic activation is modality and notation-specific. Notation effects may, however, emerge in the precision, speed, automaticity, and means by which the central magnitude representation is accessed.
Concrete magnitudes: From numbers to time
Authors: Falter Christine M. , Noreika Valdas , Kiverstein Julian , Mölder Bruno 
Published: August 2009

AbstractCohen Kadosh & Walsh (CK&W) present convincing evidence indicating the existence of notation-specific numerical representations in parietal cortex. We suggest that the same conclusions can be drawn for a particular type of numerical representation: the representation of time. Notation-dependent representations need not be limited to number but may also be extended to other magnitude-related contents processed in parietal cortex (Walsh 2003).
Numbers and numerosities: Absence of abstract neural realization doesn't mean non-abstraction
Authors: Núñez Rafael E. 
Published: August 2009

AbstractThe neural realization of number in abstract form is implausible, but from this it doesn't follow that numbers are not abstract. Clear definitions of abstraction are needed so they can be applied homogenously to numerical and non-numerical cognition. To achieve a better understanding of the neural substrate of abstraction, productive cognition – not just comprehension and perception – must be investigated.
Numerical abstraction: It ain't broke
Authors: Cantlon Jessica F. , Cordes Sara , Libertus Melissa E. , Brannon Elizabeth M. 
Published: August 2009

AbstractThe dual-code proposal of number representation put forward by Cohen Kadosh & Walsh (CK&W) accounts for only a fraction of the many modes of numerical abstraction. Contrary to their proposal, robust data from human infants and nonhuman animals indicate that abstract numerical representations are psychologically primitive. Additionally, much of the behavioral and neural data cited to support CK&W's proposal is, in fact, neutral on the issue of numerical abstraction.
Abstract representations of number: What interactions with number form do not prove and priming effects do
Authors: Santens Seppe , Fias Wim , Verguts Tom 
Published: August 2009

AbstractWe challenge the arguments of Cohen Kadosh & Walsh (CK&W) on two grounds. First, interactions between number form (e.g., notation, format, modality) and an experimental factor do not show that the notations/formats/modalities are processed separately. Second, we discuss evidence that numbers are coded abstractly, also when not required by task demands and processed unintentionally, thus challenging the authors' dual-code account
In search of non-abstract representation of numbers: Maybe on the right track, but still not there
Authors: Tzelgov Joseph , Pinhas Michal 
Published: August 2009

AbstractWe agree that the default numerical representation is best accessed by probing automatic processing. The locus of this representation is apparently at the horizontal intraparietal sulcus (HIPS), the convergence zone of magnitude information. The parietal lobes are the right place to look for non-abstract representation of magnitude, yet the proof for that is still to be found.
Do infants count like scientists?
Authors: Wiefel Andreas , Pauen Sabina , Dueck Michael 
Published: August 2009

AbstractWe discuss methodological problems and present our own empirical data on calculation tasks in toddlers. We propose to develop enriching theoretical models concerning quantity representations, based on empirical findings from developmental psychology. A revitalization of the debate is worthy, because it is reminiscent of the philosophical dispute on universal entities in scholasticism and Plato's theory of ideal numbers.
What is an (abstract) neural representation of quantity?
Authors: Piazza Manuela , Izard Veronique 
Published: August 2009

AbstractWe argue that Cohen Kadosh & Walsh's (CK&W's) definitions of neural coding and of abstract representations are overly shallow, influenced by classical cognitive psychology views of modularity and seriality of information processing, and incompatible with the current knowledge on principles of neural coding. As they stand, the proposed dichotomies are not very useful heuristic tools to guide our research towards a better understanding of the neural computations underlying the processing of numerical quantity in the parietal cortex.
Abstract or not abstract? Well, it depends …
Authors: Pease Alison , Smaill Alan , Guhe Markus 
Published: August 2009

AbstractThe target article by Cohen Kadosh & Walsh (CK&W) raises questions as to the precise nature of the notion of abstractness that is intended. We note that there are various uses of the term, and also more generally in mathematics, and suggest that abstractness is not an all-or-nothing property as the authors suggest. An alternative possibility raised by the analysis of numerical representation into automatic and intentional codes is suggested.
A manoeuvre control strategy for flexible-joint manipulators with joint dry friction
Authors: Salmasi H. , Fotouhi R. , Nikiforuk P. N. 
Published: August 2009

SUMMARYA new control strategy based on the singular perturbation method and integral manifold concept is introduced for flexible-joint manipulators with joint friction. In controllers so far developed based on the singular perturbation theory, the dynamics of actuators of flexible-joint manipulators are partially modelled, and the coupling between actuators and links is ignored. This assumption leads to inaccuracy in control performance and error in trajectory tracking which is crucial in high-precision manipulation tasks. In this paper, a comprehensive dynamic model which takes into account the coupling between actuators and links is developed and a composite controller is then designed based on the singular perturbation theorem and integral manifold concept. To overcome the joint friction, a novel method is introduced in which a linear feed-forward torque is designed using the principle of work and energy. Finally, the experimental set-up of a single rigid-link flexible-joint manipulator in the Robotics Laboratory at the University of Saskatchewan is used to verify the proposed controller. Experimental results employing the new controller show that the trajectory tracking error during and at the end of the motion of the robot manipulator is significantly reduced.
Autonomous rendezvous and robotic capturing of non-cooperative target in space
Authors: Xu Wenfu , Liang Bin , Li Cheng , Xu Yangsheng 
Published: August 2009

SUMMARYThe technologies of autonomous rendezvous and robotic capturing of non-cooperative targets are very crucial for the future on-orbital service. In this paper, we proposed a method to achieve this aim. Three problems were addressed: the target recognition and pose (position and attitude) measurement based on the stereo vision, the guidance, navigation and control (GNC) of the chaser, and the coordinated plan and control of space robot (CP&C). The pose measurement algorithm includes image filtering, edge detection, line extraction, stereo match and pose computing, et al. Based on the measured values, a certain GNC algorithm was designed for the chaser to approach and rendezvous with the target. Then the CP&C algorithm, which is proved to be advantageous over the traditional separated method, was used to plan and track the trajectories of the base pose and the joint angle. At last, a 3D simulation system was developed to evaluate the proposed method. Simulation results verified the corresponding algorithms.
Causes of death and cardiovascular complications in adolescents and adults with congenitally malformed hearts: an autopsy study of 102 cases
Authors: Aiello Vera Demarchi , Binotto Maria Angélica , Demarchi Lea Maria , Lopes Antonio Augusto , Barbero Marcial Miguel 
Published: August 2009

AbstractObjectivesTo identify the causes of death and main cardiovascular complications in adolescents and adults with congenitally malformed hearts.DesignRetrospective review of 102 necropsy reports from a tertiary centre obtained over a period of 19 years.MethodsThe diagnosis, the operated or non-operated state of the main defect, the cause of death, and main complications were related to the age and gender. Other clinically relevant conditions, and identifiable sequels of previous diseases, were also noted.ResultsThe ages ranged from 15 to 69 years, with a mean of 31.1 and a median of 28 years, with no difference detected according to the gender. Of the patients, two-thirds had been submitted to at least one cardiac surgery. The mean age of death was significantly higher in non-operated patients (p = 0.003). The most prevalent cause of death in the whole group was related to recent surgery, found in one-third. From them, two-fifths corresponded to reoperations. Among the others, cardiac failure was the main terminal cause in another third, and the second cause was pulmonary thromboembolism in just over one-fifth, presenting a significant association with histopathological signs of pulmonary hypertension (p = 0.011). Infection was the cause of death in 7.8% of the patients, all previously operated. Acute infective endocarditis was present or was the indication for the recent surgery in one-tenth of the patients, this cohort having a mean age of 27.8 years. There was a statistically significant association between the occurrence of endocarditis and defects causing low pulmonary blood flow (p = 0.043).ConclusionsData derived from necropsies of adults with congenital heart defects can help the multidisciplinary team refine both their diagnosis and treatment.
Heterogeneity in mild cognitive impairment: Differences in neuropsychological profile and associated white matter lesion pathology
Authors: DELANO-WOOD LISA , BONDI MARK W. , SACCO JOSHUA , ABELES NORM , JAK AMY J. , LIBON DAVID J. , BOZOKI ANDREA 
Published: August 2009

AbstractThis study examined whether distinct neuropsychological profiles could be delineated in a sample with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and whether white matter lesion (WML) burden contributed to MCI group differences. A heterogeneous, clinical sample of 70 older adults diagnosed with MCI was assessed using cognitive scores, and WML was quantified using a semi-automated, volumetric approach on T2-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images. Using cluster and discriminant analyses, three distinct groups (Memory/Language, Executive/Processing Speed, and Pure Memory) were empirically derived based on cognitive scores. Results also showed a dose dependent relationship of WML burden to MCI subgroup, with the Executive/Processing Speed subgroup demonstrating significantly higher levels of WML pathology when compared to the other subgroups. In addition, there was a dissociation of lesion type by the two most impaired subgroups (Memory/Language and Executive/Processing Speed) such that the Memory/Language subgroup showed higher periventricular lesion (PVL) and lower deep white matter lesion (DWML) volumes, whereas the Executive/Processing Speed demonstrated higher DWML and lower PVL volumes. Results demonstrate that distinct MCI subgroups can be empirically derived and reliably differentiated from a heterogeneous MCI sample, and that these profiles differ according to WML burden. Overall, findings suggest different underlying pathologies within MCI and contribute to our understanding of MCI subtypes. (JINS, 2009,15, 906–914.)
Individual differences in semantic switching flexibility: Effects of handedness
Authors: SONTAM VARALAKSHMI , CHRISTMAN STEPHEN D. , JASPER JOHN D. 
Published: August 2009

AbstractThe semantic fluency task is a widely used assessment tool for evaluating memory-related cognitive deficits in neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. The present study investigates individual differences in performance on this task in a normal population. The aim is to explore handedness differences in switching and clustering tendencies when performing this task. Consistent with our prediction, when asked to produce as many animal names as possible in 1 min, mixed handers demonstrated greater switching between different subcategories of animals than strong handers. These findings are interpreted in terms of the more diffuse spread of activation among conceptual representations in the right hemisphere, and greater access to right hemisphere processes in mixed handers. The findings have implications for the research communities using the semantic fluency task, irrespective of whether or not they are looking at handedness differences per se. (JINS, 2009, 15, 1023–1027.)
The Preimaginal Phases and Development ofPachycrepoideus vindemmiae(Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae) on Mediterranean Fruit Fly,Ceratitis capitata(Diptera, Tephritidae)
Authors: Tormos José , Beitia Francisco , Böckmann Elias A. , Asís Josep D. , Fernández Severiano 
Published: August 2009

AbstractThe development and morphology of the immature phases ofPachycrepoideus vindemmiae(Rondani, 1875) (Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae) are described from a laboratory rearing culture maintained onCeratitis capitata(Wiedemann, 1824) (Diptera, Tephritidae) using microscopic techniques, including light and scanning electron microscopy. The surface of the chorion of the egg is granulated, and the micropyle occurs at the anterior end. The labrum of the first instar larva does not have sensilla, and the second to fourth instar larvae have setae on the head. The mature larva is characterized by the position and number of the integumental differentations (sensilla and setae). On completion of larval development, an adecticous and exarate pupa is produced. As for the adult, the mandibles of the pupae are toothed. Five larval instars are recorded, based on statistical analyses of the sizes of the larval mandibles in combination with characters such as the number of exuviae and excretion of the meconium. Developmental time from egg to adult emergence was ∼18–20 days for males and ∼21–23 days for females at 21–26°C, 55–85 relative humidity, and a 16L:8D photoperiod. The results show that the eggs and different larval instars of this parasitoid can be unambiguously identified only by scanning electron microscope.
Convergent temporal dynamics of the human infant gut microbiota
Authors: Trosvik Pål , Stenseth Nils Christian , Rudi Knut 
Published: August 2009

Abstract
Temporal dynamics of the human gut microbiota is of fundamental importance for the development of proper gut function and maturation of the immune system. Here we present a description of infant gut ecological dynamics using a combination of nonlinear data modeling and simulations of the early infant gut colonization processes. Principal component analysis of infant microbiota 16S rRNA gene microarray data showed that the main directions of variation were defined by three phylum-specific probes targeting Bacteroides, Proteobacteria and Firmicutes. Nonlinear regression analysis identified several dynamic interactions between these three phyla. Simulations of the early phylum-level colonization process showed the relatively rapid establishment of an equilibrium community after an unstable initial phase. In general, varying the initial composition of phyla in the simulations had little bearing on the final equilibrium. The dynamic interaction model was found to maintain its predictive ability for Proteobacteria and Firmicutes well into the simulation, whereas Bacteroides densities tended to be underestimated, possibly due to host top-down selection for Bacteroides. In accordance with our model, initial perturbation of the microbiota by different mode of delivery (vaginal and C-section) did not affect the later phylum composition in the infants investigated. Considering the predictive ability and convergence of our phylum-level model, we now propose that deterministic bacterial–bacterial interactions are more important for shaping the human infant gut microbiota than previously anticipated.
Effectiveness of Routine Patient Cleansing with Chlorhexidine Gluconate for Infection Prevention in the Medical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Popovich Kyle J. , Hota Bala , Hayes Robert , Weinstein Robert A. , Hayden Mary K. 
Published: August 2009

Background.Controlled studies that took place in medical intensive care units (MICUs) have demonstrated that bathing patients with Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) can reduce skin colonization with potential pathogens and can lessen the risk of central venous catheter (CVC)-associated bloodstream infection (BSI).Objective.TO examine, without oversight of practice by research study staff, the effectiveness or real-world effect of patient cleansing with CHG on rates of CVC-associated BSI.Design.In the fall of 2005, the MICU at Rush University Medical Center discontinued bathing patients daily with soap and water and substituted skin cleansing with no-rinse, 2% CHG-impregnated cloths. This change was a clinical management decision without research input.Setting.A 21-bed MICU at Rush University Medical Center.Patients.Patients hospitalized in the MICU during the period from September 2004 through October 2006.Methods.In a pre-post study design, we gathered data from administrative and laboratory databases, infection control practitioner logs, and patient medical charts to compare rates of CVC-associated BSI and blood culture contamination between the baseline soap-and-water bathing period (September 2004-October 2005) and the CHG bathing period (November 2005-October 2006). Rates of secondary BSI,Clostridium difficileinfection (CDI), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and urinary tract infection (UTI) served as control variables that were not expected to be affected by CHG bathing.Results.Bathing with CHG was associated with a statistically significant decrease in the rate of CVC-associated BSI (from 5.31 to 0.69 cases per 1,000 CVC-days;P= .006) and in the rate of blood culture contamination (from 6.99 to 4.1 cases per 1,000 patient-days;P= .04). Rates of secondary BSI, CDI, VAP, and UTI did not change significantly.Conclusions.In our analysis of real-world practice, daily bathing of MICU patients with CHG was effective at reducing rates of CVC-associated BSI and blood culture contamination. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether these beneficial effects extend outside the MICU.