Transdiagnostic Profiles of Behaviour and Communication Relate to Academic and Socio-emotional Functioning and Neural White Matter Organisation

Behavioural and language difficulties co-occur in multiple neurodevelopmental conditions. Our understanding of these problems has arguably been slowed by an overreliance on case-control designs, which limit the conclusions we can draw because they fail to capture the overlap across different neurodevelopmental disorders and the heterogeneity within them. In this study, we recruited a large transdiagnostic cohort of children with complex diagnosed and undiagnosed needs (N = 805) to identify distinct subgroups of children with common profiles of behavioural and language strengths and difficulties. We then investigated whether and how these data-driven groupings could be distinguished from a comparison sample (N = 158) on academic, socio-emotional, and neural white matter characteristics. We identified three distinct subgroups of children, each with different levels of difficulties in structural language, pragmatic communication, and hot and cool executive functions. All three subgroups struggled with academic and socio-emotional skills relative to the comparison sample, potentially representing three alternative but related developmental pathways to difficulties in these areas. The children with the weakest language skills had the most widespread difficulties with learning, whereas those with more pronounced difficulties with hot executive skills experienced the most severe difficulties within the socio-emotional domain. Each data-driven subgroup could be distinguished from the comparison sample based on both shared and subgroup-unique patterns of neural white matter organisation. These findings advance our understanding of commonly co-morbid behavioural and language problems and their relationship to behavioural outcomes and neurobiological substrates.

Low-luminosity Galaxies in the Early Universe Have Observed Sizes Similar to Star Cluster Complexes

We compare the sizes and luminosities of faint z = 6–8 galaxies magnified by the Hubble Frontier Fields clusters with star-forming regions, as well as more evolved objects, in the nearby universe. Our high-redshift comparison sample includes 330 z = 6–8 galaxies, for which size measurements were made as part of a companion study where lensing magnifications were estimated from various public models. Accurate size measurements for these sources are complicated by the lens model uncertainties, but other results and arguments suggest that faint galaxies are small, as discussed in a companion study. The measured sizes for sources in our comparison sample range from <50 pc to ∼500 pc. For many of the lowest-luminosity sources, extremely small sizes are inferred, reaching individual sizes as small as 10–30 pc, with several sources in the 10–15 pc range with our conservative magnification limits. The sizes and luminosities are similar to those of single star cluster complexes like 30 Doradus in the lower-redshift universe and—in a few cases—super star clusters. The identification of these compact, faint star-forming sources in the z ∼ 6–8 universe also allows us to set upper limits on the proto-globular cluster luminosity function at z ∼ 6. By comparisons of the counts and sizes with recent models, we rule out (with some caveats) proto-globular cluster formation scenarios favoring substantial (ξ = 10) post-formation mass loss and set useful upper limits on others. Our size results suggest we may be very close to discovering a bona fide population of forming globular clusters at high redshift.

Study of Progress Expected Results Based on Percentage of Construction Work Plan Duration

Controlling how construction work is completed is critical to success. Generally, the result value method is used as the tool. Although this method has been applied to a variety of different types of construction work, the tool has been limited to a single project. This study examines the total value of completed construction work. Because the duration of construction work varies, the researchers refer to the percentage of the plan's duration. The percentages are set at 25%, 30%, and 50%. There have been 17 completed building construction projects between 2017 and 2018. Additionally, a comparison sample of construction work is used. The results of the data processing are pessimistic, most likely, optimistic, and hopeful. Additionally, the expected value is compared to a reference value. The expected values for the percentages of 25%, 30%, and 50% are (-2.425), (1.071), and 50%, respectively (2.275). Indeed, the expected value obtained is not the same as the comparison value. The contractor can prepare the necessary resources by knowing the value of the expected yield at a certain percentage of the duration.

Elite athletes are higher on Grit than a comparison sample of non-athletes

This study examines whether grit and conscientiousness distinguish elite-sport performers from a comparison sample of non-athletes. Participants were 128 elite athletes and 1701 adults recruited through a human resource company. Both groups filled out short-form questionnaires measuring grit and conscientiousness. Consistent with expectations, there was a high positive correlation between grit and conscientiousness and the elite athletes reported higher grit than the non-athletes. Contrary to expectations, the non-athletes scored higher on conscientiousness compared to the elite athletes. The importance of grit for attaining elite status in sport is discussed.

Research on the ecological restoration method for highway debris slope: A case study of Guidu Highway in China

To clarify the superiority of slope ecological restoration technology in slope restoration, the artificial slope in the section of Guiyang-Duyun highway as the case study was analyzed in this paper. Plant sample collection experiments were carried out by sample method, and the evaluation indicators factors were plant distribution density, biomass and soil nutrients. The effect of slope restoration was evaluated by comparing with the ecological effect of traditional slope restoration measures. The results showed that for the slope ecological restoration sample, the average cumulative plant density was 187 plants per square meter, about 3.8 times of the comparison sample. The average biomass was 333.25g/m2 , which was about 6.4 times that of the comparison sample. Soil nutrients were also much higher than those in the comparison sample. The ecological restoration of the slope with ProGanics and Flexterra materials was superior to the traditional slope restoration measures. The oretical research results will have important theoretical and technical significance for the ecological restoration method for highway debris slope of Guidu highway.

Visual binary testing of methanol contained in ethyl alcohol

A method for control of methanol traces in rectified ethyl alcohol and alcoholic drinks based on visual binary testing using one reference sample was proposed. An indicator reaction of formaldehyde interaction (product of methanol oxidation) with chromotropic acid disodium salt was chosen for methanol screening. The conditions of indicator reaction proceeding are analogous as for the spectrophotometric technique of methanol determination: methanol was oxidized to formaldehyde with potassium permanganate in an acidic medium; the formaldehyde then reacts with chromotropic acid in the presence of hot concentrated sulfuric acid and forms a violet product (color of this product is stable for 12 hours). It was established that the absorption spectrum of the reaction product does not change on going from 96% ethanol to aqueous-ethanol solutions with a volume fraction of 40% ethanol. The maximum light absorption of the reaction product corresponded to 570 nm. All further studies were carried out in water-ethanol solutions with a volume fraction of ethanol of 40%. According to regulatory documents the normalized limiting content of methanol (clim) in ethyl alcohol of the “Lux” grade (the most common in the alcoholic industry) and alcoholic beverages is 0.01% by by volume counted upon anhydrous alcohol. The comparison sample (the solution of colored reaction product of indicator reaction) had to be less than the normilized level on the value which providing the risk of false-negative test result not more than 5%. To determination the threshold concentration of methanol in the comparison sample was applied the statistics of observation. For the aim the solution of colored product corresponding to the normalized limiting methanol concentration clim = 0.01% by volume was prepared and comparison samples with lower methanol concentrations were also prepared. The interval of unreliability was discovered with the help of observers. The frequency of detecting of the difference in the color of comparison samples and normalized sample (P(c)) changed from 0 to 1 in this interval. The value of methanol concentration 0.0072% by volume counted upon anhydrous alcohol was taken for the lower boundary of the interval and the value of methanol concentration 0.01% by volume counted upon anhydrous alcohol was chosen the upper border of the interval. This interval was divided on eight concentrations with step Dс = 0.0004% by volume. Three parallel series of solutions were prepared and 48 observations for each concentration were received. The experimental efficiency curve obtained was checked for compliance with the mathematical functions of the known distributions: normal, logistic, lognormal, exponential and Weibull distribution function using the statistical criterions c2 and Kolmogorov-Smirnov λ. The efficiency curve was described by the theoretical functions of the lognormal and Weibull distributions. Calculated at a confidence level of 0.95 estimation of the threshold concentration for the comparison sample was 0.0073% by volume fraction corresponding to anhydrous alcohol. The visual binary testing of methanol trace in alcoholic drinks was carried out. The accuracy of visual binary testing of methanol was confirmed by gas chromatography.

Property valuation: the market approach optimised by a weighted appraisal model

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop an innovative model that can be included within the market approach methods for property valuations. The algorithm takes into account the frequent high level of dissimilarity of the comparables selected for the assessment, thus providing for the use of appropriate similarity and reliability coefficients capable of weighing the data of the comparison sample with respect to the different degrees of similarity and reliability. Design/methodology/approach The proposed model borrows the operative logics of the goal programming techniques, in order to identify the solution, the market value of the subject property and the implicit prices of the different influencing factors, since they are more reliable from the mathematical and empirical points of view. Findings The model has been applied to two case studies, relating to samples of residential properties located in the city of Naples (Southern Italy). The results obtained have outlined the high valuation performance of the developed appraisal model, capable of overcoming the applicability limits of classical market approach methods as well as providing solutions that are highly consistent with the expected empirical phenomena. Practical implications The research takes into account the growing need of both professionals and end users (banks, courts, public and private Entities, etc.) for valuation models that are easily repeatable and sufficiently objective. They are required in order to allow for the rapid verification of the elaborations carried out as well as to check the valuer’s appreciation of the contribution of the influencing factors in the market price formation. The outputs of the two applications developed have highlighted the ability of the proposed model to satisfy these market requests. Originality/value The proposed model can be easily implemented through a simple calculation program, with the mathematical structure elaborated allowing to overcome some application limits of the classical market approach methods. Furthermore, the introduction in the algorithm of appropriate similarity and reliability coefficients, capable of suitably weighting the data of the comparison sample, allows to widen the spatial horizon for the identification of the comparables as well as select properties characterized by a high level of dissimilarity. This makes it possible to apply the model in territorial contexts characterized by markets that are not excessively dynamic.

Knowledge, Attitudes, Beliefs and Behaviors Regarding Fruits and Vegetables among Cost-Offset Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) Applicants, Purchasers, and a Comparison Sample

Community-supported agriculture (CSA) participation has been associated with high fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption, which may be due to better access to FV for CSA purchasers, or to positive knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs (KAB) regarding healthy eating among CSA applicants. The objective of this study was to examine KAB and consumption, in association with application to a cost-offset CSA (CO-CSA) program, and with CO-CSA purchase among applicants. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of CO-CSA applicants and a comparison sample in August 2017. All respondents were English-reading adults with a child 2–12 years old and household income of ≤185% of the federal poverty level. Among CO-CSA applicants, some were CO-CSA purchasers (n = 46) and some were not (n = 18). An online comparison sample met equivalent eligibility criteria, but had not participated in CSA for three years (n = 105). We compared CO-CSA applicants to the comparison sample, and compared purchasers and non-purchaser sub-groups, using Mann-Whitney U tests and chi-square analysis. CO-CSA applicants reported better knowledge, self-efficacy, home habits, and diet than the comparison sample. Among applicants, CO-CSA purchasers and non-purchasers had equivalent KAB, but children in purchaser households had higher FV consumption than in non-purchaser households (4.14 vs. 1.83 cups, p = 0.001). Future research should explore associations between CO-CSA participation and diet using experimental methods.

Increased plasma complement factor H is associated with geriatric depression

ABSTRACTBackground:Complement factor H (CFH) plays a key role in regulating the cascade of the alternative pathway of the complement system. Dysregulation of CFH may be involved in the pathophysiology of various inflammation-mediated diseases including neuropsychiatric illnesses. This study aimed to investigate this relationship by examining determining CFH levels in elderly individuals with and without depression.Methods:A total of 152 elderly individuals (major depressive disorder (MDD) group, n = 76; comparison sample, n = 76) were selected from the Ansan Geriatric study. The plasma level of CFH was measured. MDD was diagnosed with the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview as per DSM-IV criteria. The severity of depression was evaluated with the geriatric depression scale (GDS). Mean CFH levels were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test. After adjusting for possible confounding factors including age, sex, marital status, education, alcohol use, hemoglobin levels, and the Korean version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE-KC), a multiple regression analysis was conducted. The GDS score and plasma level of CFH were analyzed using Spearman's correlation.Results:Plasma CFH level was significantly higher in individuals with MDD than in the comparison sample (289.51 ± 21.16 vs. 339.67 ± 66.23, p < 0.001). In a regression model adjusted for possible confounders, CFH was significantly associated with geriatric depression (p < 0.001). CFH levels were not significantly related to GDS scores in the depressed group.Conclusion:This study revealed an association between high plasma levels of CFH and geriatric depression, thereby suggesting the alternative pathway of the complement system contributing to the development of geriatric depression.