bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variation is the universal: making cultural evolution work in developmental psychology
Authors: Kline Michelle Ann , Shamsudheen Rubeena , Broesch Tanya
Published: February 2018

Culture is a human universal, yet it is a source of variation in human psychology, behaviour and development. Developmental researchers are now expanding the geographical scope of research to include populations beyond relatively wealthy Western communities. However, culture and context still play a secondary role in the theoretical grounding of developmental psychology research, far too often. In this paper, we highlight four false assumptions that are common in psychology, and that detract from the quality of both standard and cross-cultural research in development. These assumptions are: (i)the universality assumption, that empirical uniformity is evidence for universality, while any variation is evidence for culturally derived variation; (ii)the Western centrality assumption, that Western populations represent a normal and/or healthy standard against which development in all societies can be compared; (iii)the deficit assumption, that population-level differences in developmental timing or outcomes are necessarily due to something lacking among non-Western populations; and (iv)the equivalency assumption, that using identical research methods will necessarily produce equivalent and externally valid data, across disparate cultural contexts. For each assumption, we draw on cultural evolutionary theory to critique and replace the assumption with a theoretically grounded approach to culture in development. We support these suggestions with positive examples drawn from research in development. Finally, we conclude with a call for researchers to take reasonable steps towards more fully incorporating culture and context into studies of development, by expanding their participant pools in strategic ways. This will lead to a more inclusive and therefore more accurate description of human development.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Bridging cultural gaps: interdisciplinary studies in human cultural evolution’.
On the absence of a correlation between population size and ‘toolkit size' in ethnographic hunter–gatherers
Authors: Aoki Kenichi
Published: February 2018

In apparent contradiction to the theoretically predicted effect of population size on the quality/quantity of material culture, statistical analyses on ethnographic hunter–gatherers have shown an absence of correlation between population size and toolkit size. This has sparked a heated, if sometimes tangential, debate as to the usefulness of the theoretical models and as to what modes of cultural transmission humans are capable of and hunter–gatherers rely on. I review the directly relevant theoretical literature and argue that much of the confusion is caused by a mismatch between the theoretical variable and the empirical observable. I then confirm that a model incorporating the appropriate variable does predict a positive association between population size and toolkit size for random oblique, vertical, best-of-K, conformist, anticonformist, success bias and one-to-many cultural transmission, with the caveat that for all populations sampled, the population size has remained constant and toolkit size has reached the equilibrium for this population size. Finally, I suggest three theoretical scenarios, two of them involving variable population size, that would attenuate or eliminate this association and hence help to explain the empirical absence of correlation.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Bridging cultural gaps: interdisciplinary studies in human cultural evolution'.
CNBP controls c-Rel dependent IL-12β gene transcription and Th1 immunity
Authors: Chen Yongzhi , Sharma Shruti , Assis Patricia A. , Jiang Zhaozhao , Olive Andrew J. , Hang Saiyu , Bernier Jennifer , Huh Jun R. , Sassetti Christopher M. , Knipe David M. , Gazzinelli Riccardo T. , Fitzgerald Katherine A.
Published: February 2018

An inducible program of inflammatory gene expression is a hallmark of antimicrobial defenses. Herein, we identified Cellular nucleic acid binding protein (Cnbp) as a specific regulator of interleukin-12β gene transcription and Th1 immunity. Cnbp resides in the cytosol of macrophages and translocates to the nucleus in response to a broad range of microbial ligands. Cnbp-deficient macrophages had a selective impairment in their ability to induce IL12β gene transcription. Cnbp interacted with c-Rel, an NFκB/Rel family member that controls IL12β gene transcription. c-Rel nuclear translocation and DNA binding activity were dependent on Cnbp. Furthermore, Cnbp itself bound the IL12β promoter. Lastly, Cnbp-deficient mice were more susceptible to acute toxoplasmosis associated with reduced production of IL12β, as well as a reduced Th1 cell IFNγ response essential to control parasite replication. Collectively, these findings identify Cnbp as a key regulator of c-Rel dependent IL12β gene transcription and Th1 immunity.
Tailored perception: listeners’ strategies for perceiving speech fit their individual perceptual abilities
Authors: Jasmin Kyle , Dick Fred , Holt Lori , Tierney Adam
Published: February 2018

In speech, linguistic information is conveyed redundantly by many simultaneously present acoustic dimensions, such as fundamental frequency, duration and amplitude. Listeners show stable tendencies to prioritize these acoustic dimensions differently, relative to one another, which suggests individualized speech perception ‘strategies’. However, it is unclear what drives these strategies, and more importantly, what impact they have on diverse aspects of communication. Here we show that such individualized perceptual strategies can be related to individual differences in perceptual ability. In a cue weighting experiment, we first demonstrate that individuals with a severe pitch perception deficit (congenital amusics) categorize linguistic stimuli similarly to controls when their deficit is unrelated to the main distinguishing cue for that category (in this case, durational or temporal cues). In contrast, in a prosodic task where pitch-related cues are typically more informative, amusics place less importance on this pitch-related information when categorizing speech. Instead, they relied more on duration information. Crucially, these differences in perceptual weights were observed even when pitch-related differences were large enough to be perceptually distinct to amusic listeners. In a second set of experiments involving musical and prosodic phrase interpretation, we found that this reliance on duration information allowed amusics to overcome their perceptual deficits and perceive both speech and music successfully. These results suggest that successful speech - and potentially music - comprehension is achieved through multiple perceptual strategies whose underlying weights may in part reflect individuals’ perceptual abilities.
Increasing the Mobility of EEG Data Collection Using a Latte Panda Computer
Authors: Kuziek Jonathan W. P. , Redman Eden X. , Splinter Graeme D. , Mathewson Kyle E.
Published: February 2018

Background

Electroencephalography (EEG) experiments often require several computers to ensure accurate stimulus presentation and data collection. However, this requirement can make it more difficult to perform such experiments in mobile settings within, or outside, the laboratory

New Method

Computer miniaturisation and increasing processing power allow for EEG experiments to become more portable. Our goal is to show that a Latte Panda, a small Windows 10 computer, can be used to accurately collect EEG data in a similar manner to a laptop. Using a stationary bike, we also demonstrate that the Latte Panda will allow for more portable EEG experiments.

Results

Significant and reliable MMN and P3 responses, event-related potentials (ERPs) typically associated with auditory oddball tasks, were observed and were consistent when using either the laptop or Latte Panda for EEG data collection. Similar MMN and P3 ERPs were also measured in the sitting and stationary biking conditions while using a Latte Panda for data collection.

Comparison with Existing Method

Data recorded by the Latte Panda computer produced comparable and equally reliable results to the laptop. As well, similar ERPs during sitting and biking would suggest that EEG experiments can be conducted in more mobile situations despite the increased noise and artefacts associated with muscle movement.

Conclusions

Our results show that the Latte Panda is a low-cost, more portable alternative to a laptop computer for recording EEG data. Such a device will further allow for more portable and mobile EEG experimentation in a wider variety of environments.
Evidences of conditioned behavior in Amoeba Proteus
Authors: Fuente Ildefonso M. De la , Bringas Carlos , Malaina Iker , Fedetz María , Pérez-Samartín Alberto , López José I. , Pérez-Yarza Gorka , Boyano María Dolores
Published: February 2018

Associative memory is the main type of learning wherein complex organisms endowed with evolved nervous systems respond efficiently to determined environmental stimuli. This fundamental cognitive property has been evidenced in different multicellular species, from cephalopods to Humans, but never in individual cells. Here, following Pavlov’s experiments with dogs that founded the principles of classical conditioning, we have observed the development of an associative memory in Amoeba proteus, which corresponds to the emergence of a new systemic motility pattern. In our cellular version of this conditioning behavior, we have used a controlled direct current electric field as the conditioned stimulus and a specific chemotactic peptide as the non-conditioned stimulus. Our study allowed us to demonstrate that Amoeba proteus are capable of linking two independent past events, and the induced associative memory can be recorded for up to at least four hours. For the first time, it has been observed that a systemic response to a specific stimulus can be modified by learning in unicellular organisms. This finding opens up a new framework in the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the complex systemic behavior involved in the cellular migration and the adaptive capacity of cells to the external medium.
Combinatorial library of biodegradable polyesters enables delivery of plasmid DNA to polarized human RPE monolayers for retinal gene therapy
Authors: Mishra Bibhudatta , Wilson David R. , Sripathi Srinivas R. , Suprenant Mark P. , Rui Yuan , Wahlin Karl J. , Berlinicke Cindy , Green Jordan J. , Zack Donald J.
Published: February 2018

Efficient gene delivery into hard-to-transfect cells is still a challenge despite significant progress in the development of various gene delivery tools. Non-viral and synthetic polymeric nanoparticles offer an array of advantages for gene delivery over the viral vectors and high in demand as they are safe to use, easy to synthesize and highly cell-type specific. Here we demonstrate the use of a high-throughput screening (HTS) platform to screen for biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) that can transfect human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells with high efficiency and low toxicity. These NPs can deliver plasmid DNA (pDNA) to RPE monolayers more efficiently compared to the commercially available transfection reagents without interfering the global gene expression profile of RPE cells. In this work, we have established an HTS platform and identified synthetic polymers that can be used for high efficacy non-viral gene delivery to human RPE monolayers, enabling gene loss- and gain-of-function studies of cell signaling and developmental pathways. This platform can be used to identify the optimum polymer, weight-to-weight ratio of polymer to DNA, and the dose of NP for various retinal cell types.
Crystal structure of (E)-1,2-bis(6-bromo-9-hexyl-9H-carbazol-3-yl)ethene
Authors: Feng Ying , Guo Wei , Liu Zhi , Luo Xinyu , Zhang Dingchao , Li Li , Cui Deliang
Published: February 2018

The title compound, C38H40Br2N2, crystallizes in the triclinic space groupP-1 with two molecules in a unit cell. The two carbazole groups are nearly coplanar, making a dihedral angle of 16.90 (5)°, and are bridged by vinyl. The crystal structure features π–π and C—H...π interactions and C—H...Br short contacts.
“They made me an offer I couldn’t refuse!” Organizational commitment in a non-Western context
Authors: Bachkirov Alexandre Anatolievich
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between external monetary incentives (EMI) and affective commitment (AC), normative commitment (NC), and continuance commitment (CC).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained from a sample of 880 employees of different education and job levels, industries, sectors, and salary grades.

Findings

An increase in EMI value is linked to a weakening of AC. In a non-Western context, specific employee characteristics – salary grade, educational level, industry type, and employment in the private vs public sector – are associated with different levels of CC. At the same time, employees at different job levels (top managers, middle managers, supervisor, and operative-level employees) are differently predisposed toward AC and NC. Job level emerged as a moderating variable between EMI and AC.

Practical implications

Understanding of the ways in which EMI are related to organizational commitment will inform organizational decision makers about how to be more successful in retaining valuable employees.

Originality/value

The study offers a systematic exploratory examination of the relationship between commitment components (AC, NC, and CC) and the amount of salary offered by an alternative employer.
Indomie Noodles in Africa: lessons on digital and cultural branding
Authors: Uzo Uchenna , Nzegwu Louis
Published: February 2018

Subject area

Marketing, Brand management, Social media marketing, Digital marketing.

Study level/applicability

The case can be taught in MBA courses and executive education programs.

Case overview

Dufil Prima Limited is the manufacturer of Indomie noodles and a market leader in the noodles market of Nigeria that exports products to Congo, Ivory Coast, Ghana and Benin Republic. However, the company has experienced a drop in the market share from 78 per cent in 2010 to 54 per cent in 2015. This drop is largely due to rising competition, Nigeria’s economic downturn and the inability to grow a consumer base in Northern Nigeria. Kenneth Iruonagbe, a social media executive of the company, is responsible for developing a social media and digital marketing strategy for the company to increase the market share position by 16 per cent in the next three years. Kenneth is convinced that a growth in the Northern Nigeria market share is critical for improving the market position in the entire country and facilitating the market penetration in the other four countries. A number of options are being considered to address the current problem. Because of the sharp differences in the consumption habits, cultural values and lifestyles of consumers of noodles in the northern and southern parts of Nigeria, the options may be difficult to implement. Dufil needs to engage in the delicate task of crafting a social media and digital marketing strategy that will be consistent with the values of the Indomie brand and yet prevent the risk of brand confusion and alienation on the part of consumers. The company has one month to roll out its plan.

Expected learning outcomes

Highlight how cultural branding through social media applies to consumer markets in Africa Explain the fundamentals of brand building and also introduce the concepts of integrated marketing communication, below-the-line, above-the-line, social media and digital marketing. Explain how social media and digital marketing could be used to move consumers from brand awareness to brand loyalty. Explain how to craft social media and digital marketing strategies that are relevant to countries facing an economic downturn. Highlight the lessons from internationalizing a brand across various African countries.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS: 8: Marketing.
Crowding-out (or -in) effect in transition economies: Kyrgyzstan case
Authors: Atabaev Nurlan , Ganiev Junus , Alymkulova Nargiza
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The crowding-out and crowding-in effects have been at the core of arguments among economists regarding the influence of government spending on private investment. This study aims to examine the crowding-out (or -in) effect of public spending on private investment in the transition economy of Kyrgyzstan.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical model is an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and the vector autoregression approach (VAR). Monthly data from 2005 to 2013 of the private investment, government expenditures, remittances from abroad and broad money data were used in the empirical analysis.

Findings

The authors found that an increase in government purchases leads to rise in private investment. More precisely, the public spending crowds-in private investment at the speed with 2.06 months. On the other hand, despite the fact that remittances to GDP ratio has reached to almost 30 per cent, there is no any statistically significant effect between these variables. On the contrary, it was revealed that the broad money has statistically significant, affirmative effect on private investment. Furthermore, findings of the VAR model support the results of ARDL. The variance decomposition demonstrates that private investment shock accounts for 58.16 per cent in government expenditures, 11 per cent in broad money and 5 per cent in remittances.

Originality/value

The results of the study allow policymakers to demonstrate that the growth of national economy of the Kyrgyz Republic may be encouraged by expanding public investment with external source assistance such as grants and international loans. Accordingly, efficient use of those external funds is one of the suggested ways for economic development. Nevertheless, expansionary monetary and fiscal policy may be beneficial for economic growth in Kyrgyzstan.
Examining the anatomy of last-mile distribution in e-commerce omnichannel retailing
Authors: Lim Stanley Frederick W.T. , Srai Jagjit Singh
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the interplay between configuration dimensions (network structure, network flow, relationship governance, and service architecture) of last-mile supply networks (LMSN) and the underlying mechanisms influencing omnichannel performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on mixed-method design incorporating a multiple embedded case study, mapping, survey, and archival records, this research involved undertaking in-depth within- and cross-case analyses to examine seven LMSNs, employing a configuration approach.

Findings

The existing literature in the operations management (OM) field was shown to provide limited understanding of LMSNs within the emerging omnichannel context. Case results suggest that particular configurations have intrinsic capabilities, and that these directly influence omnichannel performance. The study further proposes a taxonomy of LMSNs comprising six forms, with two hybrids, supporting the notion of equifinality in configuration theory. Propositions are developed to further explore interdependencies between configurational attributes, refining the relationship between LMSN types, and factors influencing omnichannel performance.

Practical implications

The findings provide retailers with a set of design parameters for the (re)configuration of LMSNs and facilitate performance evaluation using the concept of fit between configurational attributes. The developed model sheds light on the consequential effects when certain configurational attributes are altered, preempting managerial attention. Given the global trend in urbanization, improved LMSN performance would have positive societal impacts in terms of service and resource efficiency.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies in the OM field to critically analyze LMSNs and their behaviors in omnichannel retailing. Additionally, the paper offers several important avenues for future research.
Towards a user-centric theory of value-driven information security compliance
Authors: Doherty Neil F. , Tajuddin Sharul T.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to fill a gap in the literature, by investigating the relationship between users’ perceptions of the value of the information that they are handling, and their resultant level of compliance with their organisation’s information security policies. In so doing, the authors seek to develop a theory of value-driven information security compliance.

Design/methodology/approach

An interpretive, grounded theory research approach has been adopted to generate a qualitative data set, based upon the results of 55 interviews with key informants from governmental agencies based within Brunei Darussalam, complemented by the results of seven focus groups. The interviews and focus groups were conducted in two phases, so that the results of the first phase could be used to inform the second phase data collection exercise, and the thematic analysis of the research data was conducted using the NVivo 11-Plus software.

Findings

The findings suggest that, when assigning value to their information, users take into account the views of members of their immediate work-group and the espoused views of their organisation, as well as a variety of contextual factors, relating to culture, ethics and education. Perhaps more importantly, it has been demonstrated that the users’ perception of information value has a marked impact upon their willingness to comply with security policies and protocols.

Research limitations/implications

Although the authors have been able to develop a rich model of information value and security compliance, the qualitative nature of this research means that it has not been tested, in the numerical sense. However, this study still has important implications for both research and practice. Specifically, researchers should consider users’ perceptions of information value, when conducting future studies of information security compliance.

Practical implications

Managers and practitioners will be better able to get their colleagues to comply with information security protocols, if they can take active steps to convince them that the information that they are handling is a valuable organisational resource, which needs to be protected.

Originality/value

The central contribution is a novel model of information security compliance that centre stages the role of the users’ perceptions of information value, as this is a factor which has been largely ignored in contemporary accounts of compliance behaviour. This study is also original, in that it fills a methodological gap, by balancing the voices of both user representatives and senior organisational stakeholders, in a single study.
Hydromagnetic-oscillatory flow of a nanofluid with Hall effect and thermal radiation past vertical plate in a rotating porous medium
Authors: Gandluru Sreedevi , D.R.V. Prasada Rao , Makinde O.D.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of thermal radiation interaction with Hall current, buoyancy force, and oscillatory surface temperature on hydromagnetic-mixed convective heat exchange stream of an electrically conducting nanofluid past a moving permeable plate in a porous medium within a rotating system.

Design/methodology/approach

Analytical closed-form solutions are obtained for both the momentum and the energy equations using the perturbation method.

Findings

The effects of various important parameters on velocity and temperature fields within the boundary layer are discussed for three different water-based nanofluids containing copper (Cu), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), and titanium dioxide (TiO2) as nanoparticles. Local skin friction and Nusselt number are illustrated graphically and discussed quantitatively. The results show that Hall current significantly affects the flow system. Results for some special cases of the present analysis are in good agreement with the existing literature.

Originality/value

The problem is relatively original to study the hydromagnetic-oscillatory flow of a nanofluid with Hall effect and thermal radiation past a vertical plate in a rotating porous medium.
Critical intimacy: an interview with Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak
Authors: Paulson Steve
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This paper is an interview with Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, whose work is inspiration for this special issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Public radio interview methodology was used.

Findings

This paper provides autobiographical reflections by Spivak.

Practical implications

The paper provides a glimpse into Spivak’s reflections on her life and work and its impact on her practice.

Originality/value

This is an excerpt of a previously published interview, included here by permission, and adds value to the special issue with insights from the author of “Can the Subaltern Speak?”.
Growth kinetics of IMC at the solid Cu/liquid Sn interface
Authors: Yin Zuozhu , Sun Fenglian , Liu Yang , Liu Yang
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate growth kinetics of interfacial Cu-Sn intermetallic compound (IMC) at the solid Cu/liquid Sn interface.

Design/methodology/approach

The Sn/Cu solid–liquid interfacial IMCs are fabricated under various soldering temperatures (240°C-270°C) and soldering times (5-240 s) by dipping method. The thickness and morphology of IMC are observed and analyzed by the optical microscope and scanning electron microscope.

Findings

Holding at 260°C, Cu/Sn solid–liquid interface Cu6Sn5 growth index experience a change from 0.08 to 0.30 within 10-190 s. The growth index is 0.08 in 10-40 s; the growth index is 0.30 in 40-190 s. Cu6Sn5 grain coarsening index is constant within 10-190 s. It is 0.13. The result of the index of Cu6Sn5 grain coarsening is different from predecessors 27 results Cu6Sn5 grain coarsening index for 1/3. This is because Cu6Sn5 grain grows at the expense of its near small grain to reduce the surface Gibbs free energy, and its morphology changes from regular shape to irregular shape. It sets up the mathematical expression about the initial formation time and temperature of Cu3Sn in 240°C-270°C.

Originality/value

It obtains a mathematical model to express the changes of solid–liquid interface frontier concentration which has an effect on the interfacial Cu6Sn5 layer growth index and the Cu6Sn5 grain coarsening index. Different indexes can be obtained by establishing relevance equations, which can be used to predict the growth of the interface IMC layer. This mathematical model is established to design the solder pads and the sizes of the solder joints.
Confidence and Caretakers: Some Less‐Obvious Implications of the Fixed‐Term Parliaments Act
Authors: Strong James
Published: February 2018

This article explores the 2011 Fixed‐term Parliaments Act's less‐obvious implications. First, it discusses why Theresa May found calling the 2017 election so straightforward, and notes what this implies for how FTPA works. Second, it looks at executive–legislative relations. FTPA removed the government's ability to designate controversial parliamentary votes as matters of confidence, and introduced a fourteen‐day cushion between a no‐confidence vote and Parliament's dissolution. In the process, it shifted the balance of power from ministers to backbenchers, to an extent potentially greater than most observers recognise. Third, it considers the more outlandish possibilities raised by FTPA's imposition of a fourteen‐day waiting period after a government's defeat on a no‐confidence motion before a new election can be called. It is possible, for example, for rebel MPs from the governing party to use the no‐confidence procedure to force concessions from the cabinet. Finally, it assesses FTPA's long‐term survival prospects, and what repeal would involve.
Years of schooling: the Australian experience in comparative perspective
Authors: MacKinnon Mary
Published: February 2018

This paper examines why secondary school participation rates have been persistently lower in Australia than in Canada or the United States. The contributions of immigration and apprenticeship have not raised the stock of skills in the adult population to North American levels. Until recently Australians believed, for a variety of reasons, that secondary schooling was needed by only a minority of students. Supply constraints have also been important, as Australians experienced lower growth rates of income, and larger and more sustained increases in the school–age population.
The transformation of Australian economic and social history
Authors: Clarkson L.A.
Published: February 2018

This article reviews the first four books published in a new Australian series entitled ‘Themes in Australian Economic and Social History’. These volumes include: A. Dingle, Aboriginal economy: patterns of experience; R.V. Jackson, The population history of Australia; W. Bate, Victorian gold rushes; A.L. Lougheed, Australia and the world economy. The series is edited by C.B. Schedvin in association with the Economic History Society of Australia and New Zealand and is published by McPhee Gribble Publishers, Melbourne. Each attractively presented book is approximately seventy pages long and is priced at $9.99. Further volumes in this series have been commissioned.
Economists and Mortgage Relief in New Zealand in the 1930s
Authors: Fleming Grant
Published: February 2018

This article recovers domestic economists as important intellectual influences underlying mortgage relief policies enacted during the Great Depression in New Zealand. It examines the opposing policy prescriptions of Professors Barney Murphy and Horace Belshaw on the economic effects of statutory reductions in interest rates and State relief measures; locates Mortgagors’ Liabilities Adjustment Commissions’ analyses of domestic factors contributing to rural indebtedness in the work of 1920s Canterbury economists; and, at a more quantitative level, questions the emphasis placed on nominal interest rate stability by officials involved in establishment of the Mortgage Corporation.
Methods for Multivariate Recurrent Event Data with Measurement Error and Informative Censoring
Authors: Yu Hsiang , Cheng Yu-Jen , Wang Ching-Yun
Published: February 2018

In multivariate recurrent event data regression, observation of recurrent events is usually terminated by other events that are associated with the recurrent event processes, resulting in informative censoring. Additionally, some covariates could be measured with errors. In some applications, an instrumental variable is observed in a subsample, namely a calibration sample, which can be applied for bias correction. In this article, we develop two non-parametric correction approaches to simultaneously correct for the informative censoring and measurement errors in the analysis of multivariate recurrent event data. A shared frailty model is adopted to characterize the informative censoring and dependence among different types of recurrent events. To adjust for measurement errors, a non-parametric correction method using the calibration sample only is proposed. In the second approach, the information from the whole cohort is incorporated by the generalized method of moments. The proposed methods do not require the Poisson-type assumption for the multivariate recurrent event process and the distributional assumption for the frailty. Moreover, we do not need to impose any distributional assumption on the underlying covariates and measurement error. Both methods perform well, but the second approach improves efficiency. The proposed methods are applied to the Nutritional Prevention of Cancer trial to assess the effect of selenium treatment on the recurrences of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Amyloids of multiple species: are they helpful in survival?
Authors: Upadhyay Arun , Mishra Amit
Published: February 2018

Amyloids are primarily known for their roles in neurodegenerative disorders, as well as in systemic diseases like diabetes. Evolutionary forces tend to maintain a healthy set of heritable characteristics, while eliminating toxic or unfavourable elements; but amyloids seem to represent an exception to this fundamental concept. In addition to their presence in mammals, amyloids also persist in the proteome of many lower organisms that may be linked with possible roles in survival, which are still unexplored. Herein, we address some unanswered questions regarding amyloids: are these well‐structured proteinaceous aggregates a by‐product of inefficient folding events, or have they been retained in our protein repertoire for as yet unknown functional roles; and how do protein misfolding and associated disorders originate, despite the presence of protein quality‐control systems inside the cells? This review aims to extend our current understanding about the multifaceted useful properties of amyloids and their functional interactions with other molecular pathways in various species; this may provide new insights to identify novel therapeutic strategies for ageing and neurodegenerative diseases.
The rise and fall of EU labour law
Authors: Giubboni Stefano
Published: February 2018

EU labour law—namely that heterogeneous, unstable combination of interventions, tools, measures, sources through which the EU directly or indirectly impacts on the normative and functional frameworks of individual and collective labour law systems of the Member States in a relationship of mutual interference and interaction–is experiencing a progressive loss of relevance, with an unprecedented decline of its normative rationales, functions, regulatory techniques, and constitutional hierarchies. This article offers a critical reflection on the reasons behind such a regressive path in the context of the EU crisis.
Global spread of helminth parasites at the human–domestic animal–wildlife interface
Authors: Wells Konstans , Gibson David I. , Clark Nicholas J. , Ribas Alexis , Morand Serge , McCallum Hamish I.
Published: February 2018

Changes in species distributions open novel parasite transmission routes at the human–wildlife interface, yet the strength of biotic and biogeographical factors that prevent or facilitate parasite host shifting are not well understood. We investigated global patterns of helminth parasite (Nematoda, Cestoda, Trematoda) sharing between mammalian wildlife species and domestic mammal hosts (including humans) using >24,000 unique country‐level records of host–parasite associations. We used hierarchical modelling and species trait data to determine possible drivers of the level of parasite sharing between wildlife species and either humans or domestic animal hosts. We found the diet of wildlife species to be a strong predictor of levels of helminth parasite sharing with humans and domestic animals, followed by a moderate effect of zoogeographical region and minor effects of species’ habitat and climatic niches. Combining model predictions with the distribution and ecological profile data of wildlife species, we projected global risk maps that uncovered strikingly similar patterns of wildlife parasite sharing across geographical areas for the different domestic host species (including humans). These similarities are largely explained by the fact that widespread parasites are commonly recorded infecting several domestic species. If the dietary profile and position in the trophic chain of a wildlife species largely drives its level of helminth parasite sharing with humans/domestic animals, future range shifts of host species that result in novel trophic interactions may likely increase parasite host shifting and have important ramifications for human and animal health.
A serine protease homologue Bombyx mori scarface induces a short and fat body shape in silkworm
Authors: Wang R.‐X. , Tong X.‐L. , Gai T.‐T. , Li C.‐L. , Qiao L. , Hu H. , Han M.‐J. , Xiang Z.‐H. , Lu C. , Dai F.‐Y.
Published: February 2018

Body shape is one of the most prominent and basic characteristics of any organism. In insects, abundant variations in body shape can be observed both within and amongst species. However, the molecular mechanism underlying body shape fine‐tuning is very complex and has been largely unknown until now. In the silkworm Bombyx mori, the tubby (tub) mutant has an abnormal short fat body shape and the abdomen of tub larvae expands to form a fusiform body shape. Morphological investigation revealed that the body length was shorter and the body width was wider than that of the Dazao strain. Thus, this mutant is a good model for studying the molecular mechanisms of body shape fine‐tuning. Using positional cloning, we identified a gene encoding the serine protease homologue, B. mori scarface (Bmscarface), which is associated with the tub phenotype. Sequence analysis revealed a specific 312‐bp deletion from an exon of Bmscarface in the tub strain. In addition, recombination was not observed between the tub and Bmscarface loci. Moreover, RNA interference of Bmscarface resulted in the tub‐like phenotype. These results indicate that Bmscarface is responsible for the tub mutant phenotype. This is the first study to report that mutation of a serine protease homologue can induce an abnormal body shape in insects.
‘Shine bright like a diamond!’: is research on high‐functioning ADHD at last entering the mainstream?
Authors: Lesch Klaus‐Peter
Published: February 2018

The paper by Greven and colleagues (this issue) is intensifying discussion how research on attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be moved away from the deficit‐focused view to a concept, which is oriented towards resources a patient might be able to recruit to function at a high‐level despite impairments. To promote understanding of high‐functioning (HF)‐ADHD, more longitudinal studies are required employing neuropsychologic, neuroimaging and neurobiologic approaches, with focus on compensatory mechanisms during fronto‐striatal‐amygdala maturation and adult plasticity as well as epigenetic modification marker screening strategies to identify homoeostatic processes of resilience in endophenotypic traits related to coping styles of target groups.
Unraveling the Nexus: Exploring the Pathways to Combined Resource Use
Authors: Font Vivanco David , Wang Ranran , Deetman Sebastiaan , Hertwich Edgar
Published: February 2018

In response to the unprecedented decline in global natural resource endowments, the so‐called nexus framework is gaining increasing influence on resource management practices. In this research, we approach the resource nexus through the concept of nexus pathways. Nexus pathways are configurations that resource flows follow along supply chains leading to the combined use of two or more resources. Three general types of pathways are identified: direct (on‐site use), dependent (one‐way supply chains), and interdependent (supply‐chain feedbacks). We quantify and compare each pathway by means of multiregional input‐output analysis and structural path analysis, and apply this approach to a comparative case study on the water‐energy nexus (WEN) in the United States and China. Interdependencies or feedbacks are generally thought to be relevant for the WEN, especially between water and energy sectors. Our economy‐wide analysis for both countries indicates, however, that feedbacks neither play an important role in the WEN nor substantially take place between water and energy sectors. The most important feedbacks contribute to less than 1% of total resource use, and these take place mostly between manufacturing sectors. Overall, the studied WEN is mostly driven by dependent pathways and, to a lesser degree, direct resource use. Comparative differences between the two countries are largely explained by differences in economic structure, technology, and resource endowments. Our findings call into question current research and policy focus and suggest greater attention to less complex, but more determining, pathways leading to absolute resource use.
Failure to Replicate the Increased Temporal Resolution Induced by Images That Give Impression of Danger
Authors: Nomura Keishi , Yotsumoto Yuko
Published: February 2018

Kobayashi and Ichikawa (2016) recently reported that briefly presented images with dangerous impressions were detected with higher accuracy than images with safe impressions and concluded that the emotion evoked by such images improves temporal resolution of visual perception. In this study, we assessed confounding effects of the color saturations of the images used in their study. While attempting to replicate their results, we found the opposite results—that is, images with safe impressions were detected with higher accuracy than those with dangerous impressions. This likely reflected an observed correlation between color saturations and detection thresholds. To confirm the effects of color saturations, in subsequent experiments, we independently examined the effects of emotion and of color characteristics. We concluded that the previously reported increased temporal resolution was due to the confounding effect of color saturation, and not by the evoked emotion.
The Office for Strategic Coordination of Health Research (OSCHR) Review of Nutrition and Health Research: Window of opportunity
Authors: Buttriss J. L.
Published: February 2018

In July 2017, a landmark report Review of Nutrition and Health Research (80 pages) was published following a strategic review commissioned by The Office for Strategic Coordination of Health Research (OSCHR). The review sets out a future vision for nutrition research and offers recommendations designed to capitalise on UK strengths, tackle weaknesses and thus strengthen and revitalise the UK research base. Traditionally, the UK has benefited considerably from research funding from the European Union, and the report stresses the window of opportunity that exists to galvanise the research community at a time when the future of UK research funding is at a crossroads. Unusual for reviews of this type, the report emphasises the vital need for partnership with industry, not least because the sector is key to ensuring translation of research advances into healthier products and improved nutrition support for those who are ill. The strategic review calls for an agreed code of practice to facilitate open, transparent and effective partnerships. In response to the review, the Medical Research Council has identified three pillars of activity for nutrition research: building the UK research base; developing plans for global nutrition research; and working with the food industry.
Protein for Life: Towards a focussed dietary framework for healthy ageing
Authors: Stevenson E. J. , Watson A. W. , Brunstrom J. M. , Corfe B. M. , Green M. A. , Johnstone A. M. , Williams E. A.
Published: February 2018

‘Ageing well’ has been highlighted as an important research area by the World Health Organization. In the UK, healthy ageing has been identified as a priority research area by multiple Research Councils and is a key NHS priority. Sarcopaenia, the decline of muscle mass/strength and a key component of healthy ageing, can have a major impact on quality of life and is associated with premature mortality. Increasing protein intake at all stages of the life course may help to reduce the rate of muscle decline and the onset of associated health conditions. However, there is a lack of understanding of the social, demographic and psychological drivers of food choices surrounding protein intake. This report describes the multidisciplinary approach that has been adopted by the Protein for Life project to create a framework for the development of palatable, cost‐effective higher‐protein foods suitable for an ageing population.
Unreflective Partisans? Policy Information and Evaluation in the Development of Partisanship
Authors: Brader Ted , Tucker Joshua A.
Published: February 2018

What factors enable and motivate citizens to form partisan identities? Popular accounts, as well as several major theoretical approaches, attribute a central role for policy and ideological concerns in shaping the partisan orientations of voters. Information about the policy aims of parties should therefore, on average, make it easier for an individual to find a party that best fits her views, especially if she had previously been less familiar with the parties. The evidence for this is mixed, however. Plenty of studies find a robust correlation between policy views and partisanship. Yet there is mounting evidence that citizens look to parties to decide where to stand on policy issues, suggesting that partisan identification precedes policy preferences. We bring new evidence to bear by investigating directly the impact of substantive policy information on the partisan identities of ordinary citizens. To do this, we carry out a pair of original experiments across six countries, five of which are relatively young or unstable party systems. One experiment informs citizens about the policy goals of the major parties; we find little to no evidence that such information affects levels of partisanship. The other experiment tests the impact of inviting citizens to evaluate and compare their own position to the positions of the major parties, a more direct test of the sort of reasoning posited in some theoretical accounts. We find that this reflective task in fact depresses levels of partisanship, perhaps especially among those who knew less about politics and parties from the outset. This suggests that thinking about policy differences and proximities pushes citizens away from partisan attachments they form in the ordinary course of life, perhaps because such thinking generates fresh doubts or focuses attention on facets of partisan choice that matter less in typical processes of preference formation.
Policy Diffusion and Directionality: Tracing Early Adoption of Offshore Wind Policy
Authors: Motta Michael J.
Published: February 2018

Policy makers frequently learn from the policy experiences of other governments. Lessons inform decision making, diffusing policy across borders. Using interviews with key policy actors and a comparative analysis of United States and European policy contexts, this study identifies and describes causal mechanisms through which newly emerging offshore wind energy policies diffused across governmental borders. In so doing, this article demonstrates a new approach to understanding policy learning and diffusion to complement the large‐N, quantitative analyses that form the bedrock of the literature. The findings support the argument that future studies must account for policy diffusion between subnational and foreign national governments, as well as diffusion between coequal administrative agencies in different policy subsystems—“directions” of diffusion that are invisible to traditional methods, yet likely to become increasingly common in the face of climate change and other wicked problems.