bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selectivity in social and asocial learning: investigating the prevalence, effect and development of young children's learning preferences
Authors: Flynn Emma , Turner Cameron , Giraldeau Luc-Alain
Published: March 2016

Culture evolution requires both modification and faithful replication of behaviour, thus it is essential to understand how individuals choose between social and asocial learning. In a quasi-experimental design, 3- and 5-year-olds (176), and adults (52) were presented individually with two novel artificial fruits, and told of the apparatus' relative difficulty (easy versus hard). Participants were asked if they wanted to attempt the task themselves or watch an experimenter attempt it first; and then had their preference either met or violated. A significant proportion of children and adults (74%) chose to learn socially. For children, this request was efficient, as observing a demonstration made them significantly quicker at the task than learning asocially. However, for 5-year-olds, children who selected asocial learning were also found to be highly efficient at the task, showing that by 5 years children are selective in choosing a learning strategy that is effective for them. Adults further evidenced this trend, and also showed selectivity based on task difficulty. This is the first study to examine the rates, performance outcomes and developmental trajectory of preferences in asocial and social learning, ultimately informing our understanding of innovation.
Identifying innovation in laboratory studies of cultural evolution: rates of retention and measures of adaptation
Authors: Caldwell Christine A. , Cornish Hannah , Kandler Anne
Published: March 2016

In recent years, laboratory studies of cultural evolution have become increasingly prevalent as a means of identifying and understanding the effects of cultural transmission on the form and functionality of transmitted material. The datasets generated by these studies may provide insights into the conditions encouraging, or inhibiting, high rates of innovation, as well as the effect that this has on measures of adaptive cultural change. Here we review recent experimental studies of cultural evolution with a view to elucidating the role of innovation in generating observed trends. We first consider how tasks are presented to participants, and how the corresponding conceptualization of task success is likely to influence the degree of intent underlying any deviations from perfect reproduction. We then consider the measures of interest used by the researchers to track the changes that occur as a result of transmission, and how these are likely to be affected by differing rates of retention. We conclude that considering studies of cultural evolution from the perspective of innovation provides us with valuable insights that help to clarify important differences in research designs, which have implications for the likely effects of variation in retention rates on measures of cultural adaptation.
Trait Heritability in Major Transitions
Authors: Herron M. D. , Zamani-Dahaj S. A. , Ratcliff W. C.
Published: March 2016

A crucial component of major transitions theory is that after the transition, adaptation occurs primarily at the level of the new, higher-level unit. For collective-level adaptations to occur, though, collective-level traits must be heritable. Since collective-level trait values are functions of lower-level trait values, collective-level heritability is related to particle-level heritability. However, the nature of this relationship has rarely been explored in the context of major transitions. We examine relationships between particle-level heritability and collective-level heritability for several functions that express collective-level trait values in terms of particle-level trait values. When a collective-level trait value is a linear function of particle-level trait values and collective size is fixed, the heritability of a collective-level trait is never less than that of the corresponding particle-level trait and is higher under most conditions. For more complicated functions, collective-level heritability is higher under most conditions, but can be lower when the environment experienced by collectives is heterogeneous. Within-genotype variation in collective size reduces collective-level heritability, but it can still exceed particle-level heritability when phenotypic variance among particles within collectives is large. These results hold for a diverse sample of biologically relevant traits. Rather than being an impediment to major transitions, we show that collective-level heritability superior to that of the lower-level units can often arise ‘for free’, simply as a byproduct of collective formation.
The Effects of Genetic Background of Mouse Models of Cancer: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Reilly Karlyne M.
Published: March 2016

Over the past century, mice have been selectively bred to give rise to the strains used in biomedical research today. Mouse models of cancer allow researchers to control variables of diet, environment, and genetic heterogeneity to better dissect the role of these factors in cancer in humans. Because of the important role of genetic background in cancer, the strain of the mouse can introduce confounding results in studies of mouse models if not properly controlled. Conversely, genetic variation between strains can also provide important new insights into cancer mechanisms. Here, the sources of genetic heterogeneity in mouse models are reviewed, with an explanation of how heterogeneity modifies cancer phenotypes.
Imaging the Neocortex Functional Architecture Using Multiple Intrinsic Signals: Implications for Hemodynamic-Based Functional Imaging
Authors: Grinvald Amiram , Sharon Dahlia , Omer David , Vanzetta Ivo
Published: March 2016

Optical imaging based on intrinsic signals has provided a new level of understanding of the principles underlying cortical development, organization, and function, providing a spatial resolution of up to 20 µm for mapping cortical columns in vivo. This introduction briefly reviews the development of this technique, the types of applications that have been pursued, and the general implications of some findings for other neuroimaging techniques based on hemodynamic responses (e.g., functional magnetic resonance imaging).
High-temperature Raman spectroscopy of the Cs2O–B2O3–MoO3 system for CsB3O5 crystal growth
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Zhang Guochun , Wan Songming , You Jinglin , Ammar Mohamed-Ramzi , Canizarès Aurélien , Simon Patrick , Wu Yicheng
Published: March 2016

Raman spectroscopy at high temperature has been applied to study in situ the microstructure of the solution in a Cs2O–B2O3–MoO3 growth system. A crystal–solution interface was observed. The BO groups consist of spiral chains based on B3O4Ø2 rings in the solution (Ø is a bridging O atom). The Raman spectrum of the solution indicates that MoO4 tetrahedra existed in the growth system. The nonbridging O atoms of the chains combined with the MoO4 groups, which decreased the viscosity. The Raman spectra near the interface show that at the boundary an isomerization reaction from three- to four-coordinated boron occurred. The formation of B3Ø7 triborate groups occurred. The morphology of the CsB3O5 crystal resulting from spontaneous crystallization was observed to correspond to our expectations.
Crystal structure of bis(N-tert-butylbenzamidinium) hexachloridozirconate(IV) dichloromethane disolvate
Authors: Jiang Zhi-Hao , Zhao Jian-Ping , Ma Xiu-Ming , Bai Sheng-Di
Published: March 2016

In the ZrIVcomplex anion of the title complex salt, [(C4H9)HNC(C6H5)NH2]2[ZrCl6]·2CH2Cl2, the ZrIVcation, located on an inversion centre, is coordinated by six Cl−anions in a distorted octahedral geometry with Zr—Cl distances in the range 2.433 (2)–2.4687 (19) Å; in the amidinium cation, the dihedral angle between the aromatic ring and [NCN] plane is 43.3 (4)°. In the crystal, the amidinium cations and [ZrCl6]2−anions are linked by N—H...Cl hydrogen bonds, forming a two-dimensional network extending along thebaxis; two dichloromethane solvent molecules are linked by a pair of weak C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds, forming a centrosymmetric [CHCl]2six-membered ring.
Lubrication film thickness calculation from contact resistance measurement in point contact
Authors: Liu De-Liang , Cao Shu-hua , Zhang Shi-feng , Xu Jiu-jun
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to solve this problem. Different lubrication states play a huge role in friction, wear and service life of parts. To ensure the reliability and power of the internal combustion engine, it is necessary to ensure that the friction pair has been in the best lubrication state. One of the key problems of lubrication state and transformation characteristics is to achieve real-time measurement of lubrication state.

Design/methodology/approach

– Previous studies show that the contact resistance method is very effective in the qualitative analysis of lubrication state test. The circuit is simple and does not require expensive test equipment. But this method could not accurately reflect the film thickness ratio. Through a combination of experimental and theoretical analysis methods, the limitation of the contact resistance method could be overcome.

Findings

– The relationship between the point contact film-thickness ratio and contact resistance was established, then the film-thickness ratio could be obtained through the contact resistance, thus providing the basis for determining the point contact lubrication state.

Research limitations/implications

– According to existing research, the lubrication state of the friction pair mainly was determined through two methods, the friction coefficient and film-thickness ratio. But there are limitations on either using Stribeck curves or optical interference methods. The method used in this paper not only provides a verified way of design theory and model, but is also beneficial to the formation of a new design theory.

Originality/value

– A new real-time measurement method of lubrication state based on contact resistance is established and its practicability and veracity are verified by series experiments.
Friction and wear behavior of electroless nick coating used for spindle of cotton picker
Authors: Meng Fanming , Chen Yuanpei , Yang Yang , Chen Zhiwei
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The severe friction and wear of the spindle in a cotton picker often occur in a picking cotton, which affects the spindle lifetime and its efficiency of picking cottons. This paper aims to investigate the effect of an electroless nick coating on the spindle performances to avoid its abnormal phenomena.

Design/methodology/approach

– First, it is coated on the surface of the test specimen with the material same as that of the spindle. Then, the friction coefficient and wear for the coating are measured under oil lubrication to evaluate its effect in improving the tribological performances for the spindle.

Findings

– The stabilized friction coefficient of the electroless nick coating decreases with increasing reciprocating frequency of specimen and increasing applied load. There exists a critical coating thickness yielding the smallest friction coefficient. Moreover, this coating has a property of the smaller friction coefficient in comparison with a hard chromium coating.

Originality/value

– The research about the electroless nick effect on the spindle’s tribological performances is not found yet to date. To avoid severe friction and wear of the spindle, this paper investigated how the reciprocating frequency of specimen, applied load and coating thickness affect the spindle’s tribological performances. The associated conclusions can provide a reference to enhance the spindle lifetime and its transmission efficiency.
Tribological behavior of hybrid PTFE/Kevlar fabric composites with different weave densities
Authors: Li HuLin , Yin Zhongwei , Jiang Dan , Li YongJin
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to achieve attractive fabric composites with excellent tribological performance and investigate the wear mechanisms of these fabric composites sliding against bearing steel pins under dry sliding process.

Design/methodology/approach

– Five different weave density composites were prepared, and the tribological behaviors of these composites were studied at different testing conditions. Scanning electron microscopy, laser microscopy (three-dimensional profile measurements) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry were used to analyze the worn surface morphology, wear volume and elemental content of the transfer films, respectively.

Findings

– The composite weave density serves an important influence on tribological behavior. Generally, the wear rate of each composite increased with increasing weave density, and the friction coefficient of each composite decreased with increasing weave density.

Originality/value

– Nanoparticle-filled hybrid polytetrafluoroethylene/Kevlar fabric composites with proper weave density have exhibited superior tribological properties in dry sliding conditions. The results that obtained in this paper may offer a reference for others who intend to achieve attractive fabric composites with excellent tribological performance.
The Mutation of International Law in Contemporary Constitutions: Thinking Sociologically about Political Constitutionalism
Authors: Thornhill Chris
Published: March 2016

This article proposes a sociological critique of theories of political constitutionalism, which distinguish sharply between political and judicial constitutionalism and express hostility towards constitutions allowing extensive judicial control of legislation. It argues that such theories are usually undermined by a sociologically deficient account of politics. As an alternative, this article proposes a theory of politics based in a model of systemic inclusion. Using this perspective, it claims that constitutions with a strong judicial emphasis, especially where judicial functions are supported by international norms, have served, in many societies, as an effective precondition for the emergence and persistence of a relatively secure, differentiated political domain. These claims are exemplified through analysis of recent constitution‐making experiments in Russia, Kenya and Bolivia.
Assessing Differences between Early and Later Adopters of Accountable Care Organizations Using Taxonomic Analysis
Authors: Wu Frances M. , Shortell Stephen M. , Lewis Valerie A. , Colla Carrie H. , Fisher Elliott S.
Published: March 2016

Objective

To compare early and later adopters of the accountable care organization (ACO) model, using the taxonomy of larger, integrated system; smaller, physician‐led; and hybrid ACOs.

Data sources

The National Survey of ACOs, Waves 1 and 2.

Study design

Cluster analysis using the two‐step clustering approach, validated using discriminant analysis. Wave 2 data analyzed separately to assess differences from Wave 1 and then data pooled across waves.

Findings

Compared to early ACOs, later adopter ACOs included a greater breadth of provider group types and a greater proportion self‐reported as integrated delivery systems. When data from the two time periods were combined, a three‐cluster solution similar to the original cluster solution emerged. Of the 251 ACOs, 31.1 percent were larger, integrated system ACOs; 45.0 percent were smaller physician‐led ACOs; and 23.9 percent were hybrid ACOs—compared to 40.1 percent, 34.0 percent, and 25.9 percent from Wave 1 clusters, respectively.

Conclusions

While there are some differences between ACOs formed prior to August 2012 and those formed in the following year, the three‐cluster taxonomy appears to best describe the types of ACOs in existence as of July 2013. The updated taxonomy can be used by researchers, policy makers, and health care organizations to support evaluation and continued development of ACOs.
Temporal trends in ischemic stroke and anticoagulation therapy for non‐valvular atrial fibrillation: effect of diabetes
Authors: Shroff Gautam R. , Solid Craig A. , Bloomgarden Zachary , Halperin Jonathan L. , Herzog Charles A.
Published: March 2016

Background

Diabetes is an important risk factor for ischemic stroke in non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of the present study was to evaluate temporal trends in ischemic stroke and warfarin use among US Medicare patients with and without diabetes.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, 1‐year cohorts of patients with Medicare as the primary payer over the period 1992–2010 were created using the Medicare 5% sample (excluding patients with valvular disease and end‐stage renal disease). International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD‐9‐CM) codes were used to identify AF, ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, and diabetes; three or more consecutive prothrombin time claims were used to identify warfarin use.

Results

Demographic characteristics of subjects in 1992 (n = 40 255) and 2010 (n = 80 314), respectively, were as follows: age 65–74 years, 37% and 32%; age >85 years, 20% and 25%; White, 94% and 93%; hypertension, 46% and 80%; diabetes, 20% and 32%; and chronic kidney disease, 5% and 18%. Among Medicare AF patients with diabetes, ischemic stroke decreased by 71% (1992–2010) from 65 to 19 per 1000 patient‐years; warfarin use increased from 28% to 62%. Among patients without diabetes, ischemic stroke decreased by 68% from 44 to 14 per 1000 patient‐years, whereas warfarin use increased from 26% to 59%. Approximately 38% of Medicare AF patients with diabetes did not receive anticoagulation in 2010.

Conclusions

Ischemic stroke declined and warfarin use increased similarly in Medicare patients with and without diabetes. Ischemic stroke rates were consistently higher in diabetes patients, validating the inclusion of diabetes in risk calculators. The population of Medicare patients with diabetes who did not receive warfarin deserves future attention.
Epidemiology and outcomes of traumatic dental injuries: a review of the literature
Authors: Lam R
Published: March 2016

Dental trauma is a significant public health problem because of its frequency, impact on economic productivity and quality of life. It is not a disease and no individual is ever at zero risk of sustaining these potentially life‐changing injuries. The aim of this article was to review the literature on the prevalence, incidence, aetiology, prognosis and outcomes of dental trauma. The importance of standardized reporting, oral health policy, adjunctive research methods, prevention and education will also be discussed. A search for relevant articles appearing in databases such as Medline, Cochrane and SSCI formed the basis of this review. Epidemiological studies indicate the annual incidence of dental trauma globally is at about 4.5%. Approximately one‐third of children and toddlers (primary teeth) and one‐fifth of adolescents and adults (permanent teeth) sustained a traumatic dental injury. The majority involved the maxillary central incisors, mainly from falls in toddlers at home and contact sport in adolescents. Despite these trends, there is considerable variation between studies within and across jurisdictions. There is a need to standardize research with a consistent approach to reporting, classification and methodology. This will improve research and form a greater basis for predicting prognosis. This research basis will assist in consent and clinical management.
Output‐Sensitive Filtering of Streaming Volume Data
Authors: Solteszova Veronika , Birkeland Åsmund , Stoppel Sergej , Viola Ivan , Bruckner Stefan
Published: March 2016

Real‐time volume data acquisition poses substantial challenges for the traditional visualization pipeline where data enhancement is typically seen as a pre‐processing step. In the case of 4D ultrasound data, for instance, costly processing operations to reduce noise and to remove artefacts need to be executed for every frame. To enable the use of high‐quality filtering operations in such scenarios, we propose an output‐sensitive approach to the visualization of streaming volume data. Our method evaluates the potential contribution of all voxels to the final image, allowing us to skip expensive processing operations that have little or no effect on the visualization. As filtering operations modify the data values which may affect the visibility, our main contribution is a fast scheme to predict their maximum effect on the final image. Our approach prioritizes filtering of voxels with high contribution to the final visualization based on a maximal permissible error per pixel. With zero permissible error, the optimized filtering will yield a result that is identical to filtering of the entire volume. We provide a thorough technical evaluation of the approach and demonstrate it on several typical scenarios that require on‐the‐fly processing.
Atomoxetine Increased Effect over Time in Adults with Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Treated for up to 6 Months: Pooled Analysis of Two Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Randomized Trials
Authors: Wietecha Linda A. , Clemow David B. , Buchanan Andrew S. , Young Joel L. , Sarkis Elias H. , Findling Robert L.
Published: February 2016

Introduction

Changes in the magnitude of efficacy throughout 26 weeks of atomoxetine treatment, along with impact of dosing, were evaluated in adults with ADHD from two randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled studies.

Aims

Pooled placebo (n = 485) and atomoxetine (n = 518) patients, dosed 25, 40, 60, 80 (target dose), or 100 mg daily, were assessed. Change from baseline in Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scale–Investigator Rated Scale: Screening Version (CAARS) total ADHD symptoms score and Adult ADHD Investigator Symptom Rating Scale (AISRS) total score were analyzed using mixed‐model repeated measures, with least squares mean change, effect size, and response rate calculated at 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 22, and 26 weeks.

Results

Decreases on CAARS for atomoxetine‐ versus placebo‐treated patients were consistently statistically significantly greater at every time point beginning at one week (P ≤ 0.006, 0.28 effect size). By 4 weeks, comparison was −13.19 compared with −8.84 (P < 0.0001, 0.45 effect size). By 26 weeks, mean change was −15.42 versus −9.71 (0.52 effect size); increase in effect size over time was most pronounced in the 80 mg group (0.82 effect size). AISRS demonstrated similar results. Atomoxetine response rate (CAARS 50% decrease) continued to increase throughout 26 weeks.

Conclusions

Atomoxetine treatment in adults with ADHD was associated with small effect sizes after 4 weeks and moderate effect sizes by 6 months of treatment. The data support increased effect size and response rate over time during longer‐term treatment at target dose.
Head Transplants and Personal Identity: A Philosophical and Literary Survey
Authors: Mori Giuliano
Published: March 2016

The criterion of personal identity is clearly called into question by the project to perform a human head transplant. Is identity provided by psychological continuity alone, or does it depend on bodily continuity as well? And how do these different perspectives interface with our notion of mind and mind–body relationship? The reader will be provided with a discussion concerning these problems, together with a philosophical and literary survey about the conception of body–mind relationship from the Greek thought to contemporary philosophy. The analysis will conclude with a discussion concerning the possibility to consider the issue of personal identity from a statistic point of view, which privileges the general perception of identity, so as it has been shaped by the cultural trends of the last four centuries. It could hence be argued that personal identity is not something which can be defined once and for all. On the contrary, the general perception of identity is subject to significant alterations resulting from one's cultural environment. However, the cultural environment itself can be changed by particularly notable events, such as, hypothetically, the successful outcome of a human head transplant.
A patient navigator and education program for increasing potential living donors: a comparative observational study
Authors: Marlow Nicole M. , Kazley Abby S. , Chavin Kenneth D. , Simpson Kit N. , Balliet Wendy , Baliga Prabhakar K.
Published: March 2016

Background and Objectives

Person‐centered clinical environments may promote living donation for patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). We implemented an observational study design to explore whether a patient navigator (PN) program with person‐centered education in nephrology practice settings could increase potential living donors (PLDs) and, subsequently, increase living transplantation.

Design, setting, participants, and measures

Patients referred to (N = 4621) and/or transplanted at (N = 950) our transplant center during 2007–2012 were eligible for inclusion. Two analytical study populations were derived from propensity score matched patient groups. Outcomes comprised total PLDs per candidate and living vs. deceased transplantation for recipients.

Results

Multivariable generalized estimating equations logistic regression showed that PN practice candidates were significantly more likely to have an initial inquiry PLD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01–1.44) and a preliminary screening PLD (OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.05–1.54), while there were no significant differences observed in evaluated PLD (OR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.61–1.45).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that our person‐centered PN program stimulated willingness to seek living transplantation and was associated with a trend toward increased LD.
How the Market Became Divine
Authors: Cox Harvey
Published: March 2016

We have moved beyond a “market economy” to what some have called a “market society,” one in which everything seems to be for sale. We also now see the advent of a “market religion,” in which the values and life meanings of consumer culture have become dominant. This new religion has its own doctrines, rituals, priesthood, and mission to “go into all the world.” It has its own narratives of creation, fall, and redemption, and its own saints and heroes. But because its underlying thrust is endless growth, and we live on a finite planet, it is carrying us toward destruction. Some parts of Christianity are opposing what Pope Francis has called “idolatry,” but unfortunately most parts are being swept into its new dispensation.
The Market as “God”?
Authors: Day Keri
Published: March 2016

This article explores two lines of inquiry. The first is related to the production of human subjectivities in relation to market ideology and practices. What kinds of human subjectivities are produced when people worship the market as “God”? The market and its values of hyper‐competition become idols as people overly direct their energy toward earning and accumulating financial and social capital in order to find meaning and worth. Worshiping the market reflects a perverted anthropology. The second line of inquiry is related to the language of sacrifice intrinsic to both free market logic and Western Christian theology. Could Christian theology, even unwittingly, reinforce the problem of sacrifice in market logic, which justifies forms of human loss (such as chronic poverty) in order to promote long‐term economic growth and greater human wellbeing?
α‐Defensins and bacterial/permeability‐increasing protein as new markers of childhood obesity
Authors: Prats‐Puig A. , Gispert‐Saüch M. , Carreras‐Badosa G. , Osiniri I. , Soriano‐Rodríguez P. , Planella‐Colomer M. , de Zegher F. , Ibánez L. , Bassols J. , López‐Bermejo A.
Published: March 2016

Objectives

The aim of this paper is to test whether α‐defensins and bacterial/permeability‐increasing protein were related to obesity and cardiovascular risk factors in prepubertal children.

Methods

Plasma α‐defensins and bacterial/permeability‐increasing protein, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, systolic blood pressure (SBP), carotid intima media thickness (cIMT), HOMA‐IR and HMW‐adiponectin were assessed.

Results

In a cross‐sectional study (N = 250), higher α‐defensins concentrations were positively associated with BMI, waist, SBP, cIMT, HOMA‐IR and negative correlated with HMW‐adiponectin (all between r = 0.191 and r = 0.377, p ≤ 0.01 and p ≤ 0.0001). Conversely, plasma bacterial/permeability‐increasing protein concentrations presented inversed associated with the same parameters (all between r = −0.124 and r = −0.329; p ≤ 0.05 and p ≤ 0.0001). In a longitudinal study (N = 91), α‐defensins at age 7 were associated with BMI (β = 0.189, p = 0.002; model R2 = 0.847) and waist (β = 0.241, pthinsp;= 0.001; model R2 = 0.754) at age 10.

Conclusions

α‐Defensins and bacterial/permeability‐increasing protein may be the markers of childhood obesity. Increased concentrations of α‐defensins may predict BMI and abdominal fat deposition in children.
Speciation in peripheral populations: effects of drift load and mating systems
Authors: Rettelbach A. , Servedio M. R. , Hermisson J.
Published: March 2016

Speciation in peripheral populations has long been considered one of the most plausible scenarios for speciation with gene flow. In this study, however we identify two additional problems of peripatric speciation, as compared to the parapatric case, that may impede the completion of the speciation process for most parameter regions. First, with (predominantly) unidirectional gene flow, there is no selection pressure to evolve assortative mating on the continent. We discuss the implications of this for different mating schemes. Second, genetic load can build up in small populations. This can lead to extinction of the peripheral species, or generate selection pressure for lower assortative mating to avoid inbreeding. In this case, either a stable equilibrium with intermediate assortment evolves or there is cycling between phases of hybridization and phases of complete isolation.
Oxytocin Acting in the Nucleus Accumbens Core Decreases Food Intake
Authors: Herisson F. M. , Waas J. R. , Fredriksson R. , Schiöth H. B. , Levine A. S. , Olszewski P. K.
Published: March 2016

Central oxytocin (OT) promotes feeding termination in response to homeostatic challenges, such as excessive stomach distension, salt loading and toxicity. OT has also been proposed to affect feeding reward by decreasing the consumption of palatable carbohydrates and sweet tastants. Because the OT receptor (OTR) is expressed in the nucleus accumbens core (AcbC) and shell (AcbSh), a site regulating diverse aspects of eating behaviour, we investigated whether OT acts there to affect appetite in rats. First, we examined whether direct AcbC and AcbSh OT injections affect hunger‐ and palatability‐driven consumption. We found that only AcbC OT infusions decrease deprivation‐induced chow intake and reduce the consumption of palatable sucrose and saccharin solutions in nondeprived animals. These effects were abolished by pretreatment with an OTR antagonist, L‐368,899, injected in the same site. AcbC OT at an anorexigenic dose did not induce a conditioned taste aversion, which indicates that AcbC OT‐driven anorexia is not caused by sickness/malaise. The appetite‐specific effect of AcbC OT is supported by the real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis of OTR mRNA in the AcbC, which revealed that food deprivation elevates OTR mRNA expression, whereas saccharin solution intake decreases OTR transcript levels. We also used c‐Fos immunohistochemistry as a marker of neuronal activation and found that AcbC OT injection increases activation of the AcbC itself, as well as of two feeding‐related sites: the hypothalamic paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei. Finally, considering the fact that OT plays a significant role in social behaviour, we examined whether offering animals a meal in a social setting would modify their hypophagic response to AcbC OT injections. We found that a social context abolishes the anorexigenic effects of AcbC OT. We conclude that OT acting via the AcbC decreases food intake driven by hunger and reward in rats offered a meal in a nonsocial setting.
A High Road to Sustainability? Wildflower Harvesting, Ethical Trade and Social Upgrading in South Africa's Western Cape
Authors: Bek David , Binns Tony , Blokker Thijs , Mcewan Cheryl , Hughes Alex
Published: March 2016

This paper evaluates the outcomes from an ambitious wildflower harvesting programme in South Africa's Western Cape, which has sought to achieve positive outcomes in terms of socio‐economic development and biodiversity conservation. Indigenous wildflowers, harvested according to conservation principles, are processed into ‘Cape Flora’ bouquets and sold into international and domestic markets. The principal supply chain provides an example of ethical trade due to the explicit environmental and social standards that are required at local sites of production. The incorporation of such standards represents an attempt to engender economic and social upgrading within the value chain. In this sense, the programme is consistent with dominant policy discourses, which suggest that exploiting potentially profitable niches within international trade flows represents a ‘high road’ to economic growth and transformation. The paper focuses upon the job creation and social impacts of the programme in the context of efforts to overcome South Africa's deeply entrenched socio‐economic disparities and high poverty levels. Despite impressive growth in production and exports during the global financial crisis, there have been mixed outcomes in terms of benefits to stakeholders at the upstream end of the supply chain. The paper concludes by considering the extent to which local initiatives operating under the framework of ethical trade possess the potential to facilitate effective social and economic upgrading.
Hybrid performance and heterosis in strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duchesne), regarding acidity, soluble solids and dry matter content in fruits
Authors: Kaczmarska Elżbieta , Gawroński Jacek , Jabłońska‐Ryś Ewa , Zalewska‐Korona Marta , Radzki Wojciech , Sławińska Aneta
Published: February 2016

A top‐cross‐mating design among 29 S4 inbred lines and tester (cultivar ‘Dukat’) was carried out to study their breeding value in terms of general combining ability (GCA). The objectives of this study were to evaluate the acidity, soluble solids and dry matter contents in fruits of progeny F1 in comparison with S4 inbred lines as well as the cultivars (S0); identify strawberry genotypes with high value of GCA for use in cultivar development; and determine mid‐parent heterosis regarding S4 inbred lines and cultivated strawberry. The 2‐year observations showed statistically significant differences between tested genotypes in terms of the studied traits. The highest breeding value based on GCA was estimated for Chandler 123‐5 for soluble solids and dry matter content, and Kent 7‐6 for acidity. Estimated mid‐parent heterosis had positive and negative values. The highest heterosis in terms of extract and dry matter content (26.71% and 17.50%, respectively) occurred in the offspring Chandler 123‐5 × ‘Dukat’, but as regards acidity in hybrid Chandler 123‐22 with cv. ‘Dukat’. The study of genetic divergence by dendrograms may help to identify parents suitable for obtaining hybrids with higher heterosis effects.
Cytoplasmic expression of high mobility group B1 (HMGB1) is associated with tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in breast cancer
Authors: Lee Hee Jin , Kim Ahrong , Song In Hye , Park In Ah , Yu Jong Han , Ahn Jin Hee , Gong Gyungyub
Published: February 2016

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a prototypic alarmin or damage‐associated molecule inducing inflammatory mediator release and immune response. Several studies have revealed the prognostic and predictive importance of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in breast cancer. The present study analyzed the expression of HMGB1 in each breast cancer subtype and the relationship between the expression level of HMGB1 and pathologic parameters including TILs. Two cohorts were studied: 575 consecutive breast cancer patients who underwent surgery between 1995 and 1998; and 767 triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients who underwent surgery between 2004 and 2010. The immunohistochemical expression level of HMGB1 in cytoplasm and nucleus was evaluated using tissue microarrays. High HMGB1 expression in cytoplasm was associated with high histologic grade, pT stage, and abundant TILs in the consecutive breast cancer cohort. Cytoplasmic HMGB1 expression was higher in TNBCs and HER2‐positive tumors than in hormone receptor‐positive tumors. In the TNBC cohort, high cytoplasmic HMGB1 expression was significantly associated with high histologic grade, abundant TILs, and high numbers of CD8+ cells. However, nuclear HMGB1 expression was not associated with histologic grade or TIL levels. Neither cytoplasmic nor nuclear expression of HMGB1 showed prognostic significance in TNBC. Cytoplasmic HMGB1 expression is associated with TIL levels in breast cancer.
Mouse models of acute exacerbations of allergic asthma
Authors: Kumar Rakesh K. , Herbert Cristan , Foster Paul S.
Published: February 2016

Most of the healthcare costs associated with asthma relate to emergency department visits and hospitalizations because of acute exacerbations of underlying chronic disease. Development of appropriate animal models of acute exacerbations of asthma is a necessary prerequisite for understanding pathophysiological mechanisms and assessing potential novel therapeutic approaches. Most such models have been developed using mice. Relatively few mouse models attempt to simulate the acute‐on‐chronic disease that characterizes human asthma exacerbations. Instead, many reported models involve relatively short‐term challenge with an antigen to which animals are sensitized, followed closely by an unrelated triggering agent, so are better described as models of potentiation of acute allergic inflammation. Triggers for experimental models of asthma exacerbations include (i) challenge with high levels of the sensitizing allergen (ii) infection by viruses or fungi, or challenge with components of these microorganisms (iii) exposure to environmental pollutants. In this review, we examine the strengths and weaknesses of published mouse models, their application for investigation of novel treatments and potential future developments.
Investigating the Relationships Between Structures and Properties of Al Alloys Incorporated With Ti and Mg Inclusions
Authors: Kurt Halil Ibrahim , Guzelbey Ibrahim H. , Salman Serdar , Asmatulu Razamzan , Dere Mustafa
Published: March 2016

This study investigates the influence of titanium (Ti) and magnesium (Mg) additions on aluminum (Al) alloys in order to evaluate the relationship between the structure and properties of the new alloys. The alloys obtained at elevated temperatures mainly consist of Al–2Mg–1Ti, Al–2Mg–3Ti, Al–4Mg–2Ti, and Al–6Mg–2Ti alloys, as well as α and τ solid solution phases of intermetallic structures. Microstructural analyses were performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscope, and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) techniques. Test results show that the average grain size of the alloys decreased with the addition of Ti inclusions during the casting and solidification processes, and the smallest grain size was found to be 90 μm for the Al–6Mg–3Ti alloy. In addition, tensile properties of the Al–Mg–Ti alloys were initially improved and then worsened after the addition of higher concentrations of Ti. The highest tensile and hardness values of the alloys were Al–4Mg–2Ti (205 MPa) and Al–6Mg–3Ti (80 BHN). The primary reasons for having higher mechanical properties may be attributed to strengthening of the solid solution and refinement of the grain size and shape during the solidification process. For this study, the optimum concentrations of Ti and Mg added to the Al alloys were 4 and 2 wt.%, respectively. This study may be useful for field researchers to develop new classes of Al alloys for various industrial applications.
A Three-Spring Pseudorigid-Body Model for Soft Joints With Significant Elongation Effects
Authors: Venkiteswaran Venkatasubramanian Kalpathy , Su Hai-Jun
Published: March 2016

Compliant mechanisms achieve motion utilizing deformation of elastic members. However, analysis of compliant mechanisms for large deflections remains a significant challenge. In this paper, a three-spring revolute–prismatic–revolute (RPR) pseudorigid-body (PRB) model for short beams used in soft joints made of elastomer material is presented. These soft joints differ from flexure-based compliant joints in which they demonstrate significant axial elongation effects upon tip loadings. The traditional PRB models based on long thin Euler beams failed to capture this elongation effect. To overcome this difficulty, a model approximation based on the Timoshenko beam theory has been derived. These equations are utilized to calculate the tip deflection for a large range of loading conditions. An optimization process is then carried out to determine the optimal values of the parameters of the PRB model for a large range of tip loads. An example based on a robotic grasper finger is provided to demonstrate how the model can be used in analysis of such a system. This model will provide a simple approach for the analysis of compliant robotic mechanisms.
Staging Critical History Within the Space of the Beat; or: What Cultural Historians Can Learn From Public Enemy, NTM, MC Solaar & George Clinton
Authors: Marshall Jonathan W
Published: February 2016

NTM’s ‘That’s My People’ echoes through the Paris metro, whilst director Mark Pellington stages a history of Black resistance across a New York wall. Images of le graff flick over as though on an antique slide projector, while Chuck D reminds us of when ‘Black people died’ and ‘the other man lied’. Hip-hop and related sample-based musics inhabit a world which is deeply historicised—indeed historiographic. What then might we learn from hip-hop, and what kind of historical relations does it make possible? The syncopation of beat stages the gap between now (get up on the down beat) and then (get down on history). Funk as history. MC Solaar’s ‘Nouveau Western’ does not simply comment on the past and Americanism. Rather director Stéphane Sednaoui‎’s fluid, tunnelling montage moves us through space and time faster than a train bearing the latest tag, than the iron horses linking America’s Westside with the East, or even the TGV joining Les Halles to the banlieues. Hip-hop is less a narrative project, than a spatial one. It enables us to rethink history and music as spatial juxtaposition: the aesthetics of the montage. NTM’s bass and Terminator X’s noise bounce off and penetrate concrete, bodies (do you feel it?), history and location. Hip-hop as acoustic dialectics. Expanding on Kodwo Eshun’s model of AfroFuturism, I characterise hip-hop’s spatio-acoustic project as ethnographic Surrealism (James Clifford), in which juxtapositions defy normal narrative time and space, producing new insights and confluences, from the Mothership to Ancient Egypt, from Mississippi to West Germany, from Picasso to the Ivory Coast. In George Clinton’s words, this ‘shines the spotlight on ‘em!’ onto various non-dancing subjects, placing them into a shifting acoustic space wherein all things dance and clash.
Government agency interventions in Australia and New Zealand’s indigenous popular music industries and indigenous empowerment
Authors: Cattermole Jennifer
Published: February 2016

As Wilson and Stewart (2008: 3) note, “industrialized, mass-produced messages and images – and accompanying technologies – in most cases have represented the perspectives, values and institutional structures of empire.” While radio broadcasting in post-colonial New Zealand exemplifies this global trend, Māori have challenged Pākehā dominance of the nation’s airwaves in recent decades, having successfully carved out a space for themselves within the New Zealand mediascape. Nevertheless, getting more Māori music (especially songs with te reo lyrics) on radio and other forms of broadcasting media remains a challenge – especially in the New Zealand commercial broadcasting sphere. It has been 30 years since a te reo song last topped the charts.      This challenge has been addressed in various ways by the two organizations mandated to promote Māori language and Māori culture via broadcasting: Te Māngai Pāho (TMP) and New Zealand On Air (NZOA). This article will describe and evaluate TMP and NZOA’s responses to calls for more Māori music (especially songs with te reo lyrics) on air, and suggest further measures that could be implemented to increase the broadcasting of such music. It will also placeTMP and NZOA’s strategies in the context of broader NZ cultural-political shifts, and in the context of changes in the NZ broadcasting environment. It asks whether, or to what extent, cultural protectionism is needed today in NZ’s deregulated and diversifying broadcasting environment.
Anthem for Jersey: Music, Media and Politics in an Island Setting
Authors: Johnson Henry
Published: February 2016

In 2007, Jersey’s government launched a competition in search for an anthem to celebrate the island’s identity. Even though the island uses ‘God Save the Queen’ as its official anthem because of its allegiance to the British Crown, there are increasingly more occasions for the island to have its own anthem, such as at the Island Games or the Commonwealth Games when island athletes compete against other jurisdictions that might also use ‘God Save the Queen’. Two other songs, ‘Ma Normandie’ (‘My Normandy’) and ‘Beautiful Jersey’  (‘Man Bieau P’tit Jèrri’), have sometimes been used at times of celebration, but in recent years there has been increased discussion regarding the place of these songs because neither was originally composed as an official anthem for Jersey. Over the past few decades, Jersey has re-thought internal cultural policy towards island identity, which has been part of a process of increased reflection on the island’s heritage as well as its place in the wider world. This article helps show how Jersey is rethinking identity through several spheres: media, political and cultural. By studying the process of finding its own anthem, the politics of local identity construction are highlighted and provide examples that help explain why a unique anthem is needed in the present-day, and how the island is represented and has responded through song as a result of the competition.
Gimme Shelter: Cautionary Tale or Blueprint for a Punk Carnival?
Authors: Stapleton Peter
Published: February 2016

Gimme Shelter (Maysles, Maysles, and Zwerin 1970), which documents The Rolling Stones’ 1969 US tour, is widely regarded as the last of the 1960s rockumentaries. Paradoxically, its chaotic final scenes at the band’s Altamont concert would also unwittingly provide a blueprint for the ‘punkumentary’, a subgenre of films that expressed punk’s revolt against mainstream rock culture at the end of the 1970s. Drawing upon the work of Mikhail Bakhtin, I wish to describe how the punkumentary’s subversion of the rock documentary hinged upon its aesthetic embrace of the very carnivalesque and anti-chronotopic elements, which had torn apart the 1960s counterculture’s utopian dream in Gimme Shelter’s Altamont scenes. In this respect, the punkumentaries destabilise the normative time-space associated with the rock documentary. Moreover, as an aesthetic and political expression of the very phenomenon they document, their subversion of the rock documentary is explicitly embodied.