bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Citizen-driven innovation: stem cell scientists, patient advocates and financial innovators in the making of the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine (CIRM)
Authors: Etzkowitz Henry , Rickne Annika
Published: February 2016

Our attention in this paper is to the relationship between society and science in science-based innovation processes. We propose that citizens’ and scientists’ actions are interlaced and that civil society provides a platform on which novel approaches to innovation may be formed. The empirical focus is set on stem cells and regenerative medicine in California, and the emergence of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM). In an effort to advance the area, a coalition of actors went beyond conventional roles and ventured into a broader realm of ‘innovation in innovation’, creating a new financial and organizational model. This has played out in a number of interesting and fruitful ways, and implications can be drawn for innovation policy and practice.
Liver mitochondrial and whole-animal level metabolic compensation in a catfish during seasonal acclimatization
Authors: Yan Yulian , Xie Xiaojun
Published: February 2016

To examine whether metabolic compensation during seasonal acclimatization at the liver mitochondrial level is consistent with that at the whole-animal level, respiration rates of liver mitochondria and resting metabolic rates in winter- and summer-acclimatized southern catfish (Silurus meridionalis Chen) were measured. At 12.5, 17.5, 22.5, 27.5 and 32.5°C, the mean values of state 3 respiration rates were 12.21, 13.84, 18.96, 24.78 and 32.01 nmol O2 min-1 mg-1 mitochondrial protein in the winter group, and 8.56, 9.20, 17.32, 22.74 and 26.32 nmol O2 min-1 mg-1 in the summer group, respectively. At the five assay temperatures the resting metabolic rates were 24.86, 42.68, 61.59, 84.10 and 125.65 mg O2 h-1 kg-1 body mass in the winter group, and 22.89, 40.59, 52.94, 75.13 and 109.35 mg O2 h-1 kg-1 in the summer group, respectively. Total mitochondrial respiration rates in the liver organ were estimated based on state 3 respiration rates, mitochondrial protein content and organ mass, and the mean values were 72.96, 71.87, 112.47, 167.35 and 183.27 nmol O2 min-1 in the winter group, and were 47.89, 47.39, 105.67, 138.18 and 132.29 nmol O2 min-1 in the summer group, respectively. Metabolic compensation caused by seasonal acclimatization occurred at the liver mitochondrial level and compensation at the liver organ level was found to be more efficient because of an increase in metabolic capacity of mitochondria and a boost in organ mass. Metabolic compensation at the whole-animal level was not detected. During seasonal acclimatization, the effect of metabolic compensation at liver mitochondrial level is inconsistent with that at the whole-animal level in the southern catfish. This may be due to different degrees of regulation of metabolic mechanisms among various tissues and organs in an acclimatized organism.
Are eavesdroppers multimodal? Sensory exploitation of floral signals by a non-native cockroach Blatta orientalis
Authors: Vergara Rodrigo C. , Torres-Araneda Alejandra , Villagra Diego A. , Raguso Robert A. , Arroyo Mary T. K. , Villagra Cristian A.
Published: February 2016

The study of multi-modal communication has only recently been extended to innate and learned interactions between flowers and their animal visitors, and usually only to pollinators. Here we studied the relevance of floral scent and visual display of a night blooming, putatively hawkmoth-pollinated plant Oenothera acaulis (Onagraceae) in the attraction of non-native cockroaches Blatta orientalis (Blattodea: Blattidae), which function as facultative floral larcenists in coastal habitats of central Chile. We experimentally decoupled visual (corolla) and olfactory (fragrance) stimuli by presenting paper corollas and green mesh bags, with or without a freshly-picked natural flower inside. We then contrasted the behavioral responses of roaches in these treatments with those to the natural combination of traits in actual flowers and their respective control treatments, measuring the roaches’ frequency of first visits, mean and total residence time spent in each treatment. The roaches primarily used olfactory cues when approaching O. acaulis flowers at two biologically relevant spatial scales. In addition, the presence of conspecific roaches had a strong influence on recruitment to the experimental arena, increasing the statistical differences among treatments. Our results suggest a primacy of floral fragrance over visual stimuli in the foraging responses of B. orientalis. Olfactory cues were necessary and sufficient to attract the roaches, and the visual cues presented in our manipulations only marginally increased their attraction within a 20 cm diameter of the stimulus. The full spectrum of floral visitation behavior was not elicited by the artificial flowers, suggesting the need for additional tactile or contact chemosensory stimuli not provided by paper. Although the nitrogenous scent compounds that we found in O. acaulis flowers are almost exclusively found in hawkmoth-pollinated flowers, the attractiveness of these compounds to a non-native, facultative flower-visiting insect indicates that they do not function as pollinator-specific signals for hawkmoth attraction.
Assets and tactics in a mating market: Economic models of negotiation offer insights into animal courtship dynamics on the lek
Authors: Patricelli Gail L. , Krakauer Alan H. , Mcelreath Richard
Published: February 2016

Economists study negotiation as a series of events—partner choice, information gathering, bargaining, etc.—with each step of the process affecting the outcome of the next, and the optimal decision at each stage depending on the player’s bargaining power. The context in which these negotiations occur—the market—is critical, since players can adjust their behaviors in response to outside offers. Animals similarly are faced with sequential decisions regarding courtship: who to court, how to approach a potential mate, at what level to display, when to give up, etc. Thus economic models of negotiation in a market provide a framework in which we can view not just the outcome of courtship (assortative mating), but also the process, where each sex can use tactics to improve their negotiating outcome, using the assets that they have available. Here we propose to use negotiation as a conceptual framework to explore the factors promoting tactical adjustments during sequential stages of courtship in lekking species. Our goal is to discuss the utility of negotiation as a heuristic tool, as well as the promise and peril of co-opting game theoretic models from economics to understand animal interactions. We will provide a brief overview of a few areas where we see promise for using negotiation as a framework to understand animal courtship dynamics: choice of a display territory, tactical partner choice for negotiation, approaching a potential partner and courtship haggling.
Effect of mate size on maternal reproductive effort in the convict cichlid Amatitlania siquia
Authors: Robart Ashley R.
Published: February 2016

The differential allocation hypothesis predicts individuals will increase their reproductive investment when mated to a high quality partner. In many species of fish with biparental care females prefer large males due to the males’ greater ability to raise more offspring to independence. I examined the relationship between mate quality, parental care and number of offspring in a natural population of convict cichlids Amatitlania siquia. The frequency of frontal displays by females was positively correlated with male standard length. Additionally, as males increased in length relative to their mate, females increased the frequency of chases towards predators, while males decreased the number of displays towards brood predators. This trade-off in parental effort within a pair due to mate quality is a key prediction of differential allocation. The number of offspring was correlated with male, but not female, standard length. These results support the differential allocation hypothesis in that females offered more parental care to offspring of a larger male, while their mates decreased the amount of care they provided. Additionally, females benefited in terms of number of offspring by pairing with higher quality mates. Increased female investment may provide an incentive to ensure male care and maintain pair bonding, which could lead to greater reproductive success through increased offspring survival.
Apparent dissociation of photoperiodic time measurement between vernal migration and breeding under dim green light conditions in Gambel’s white-crowned sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii
Authors: Wang Gang , Ramenofsky Marilyn , Wingfield John C.
Published: February 2016

In seasonally breeding birds, the annual cycle of photoperiod is a principal environmental cue for temporal arrangement of different life-history stages, such as migration and breeding. In the past, most research has focused on the mechanisms of photoperiodic control of breeding with less attention paid to migration. In Gambel’s white-crowned sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii (GWCS), photoreceptors for induction of breeding are known to reside in the basal hypothalamus. However, it is unknown whether the sites of photoperiodic reception for vernal migration are the same as those for breeding. Therefore, we hypothesized that they may be controlled separately. In this study, we exposed photosensitive GWCSs to low-penetration green light (wavelength at 510 nm) under a regime of 1 lux during the day and <0.1 lux at night, and switched the photoperiodic conditions from short day (10 h daytime) to long day (18 h daytime). The results showed that the experimental birds developed traits associated with vernal migration including mass increase, fat deposition and migratory restlessness behavior when transferred from short day to long day green light cycles, while control birds maintained continuously on short day green light conditions did not express any migration related characteristics. Neither experimental nor control groups showed gonadal recrudescence under either green light cycles. In support of our hypothesis, we were able to apparently dissociate the photoperiodic responses regulating vernal migration and breeding, which suggests separate mechanisms of photoperiodic time measurement. Such distinct photoperiodic mechanisms may drive the fine-tuned temporal arrangement of the two life history stages.
Does foraging mode affect metabolic responses to feeding? A study of pygopodid lizards
Authors: Wall Michael , Thompson Michael B. , Shine Richard
Published: February 2016

Foraging mode (ambush vs. active) profoundly affects many aspects of organismal biology, including metabolic rates and their relationship with food intake. Previous studies on snakes suggest that ambushers tend to have lower standard metabolic rates (SMR) and higher energetic costs of digestion and assimilation of prey (specific dynamic action, or SDA) than do active foragers. However, phylogenetic considerations may be at least partly responsible for such patterns, as foraging mode is strongly conserved evolutionarily and most SDA studies have focused on species from only two lineages of ambush foragers (pythonid and viperid snakes) and one lineage of active foragers (colubrid snakes). We sought to deconfound the effects of phylogeny and foraging mode, investigating SMR and SDA in two closely related pygopodid lizards, the common scaly-foot Pygopus lepidopodus (active forager) and Burton’s legless lizard Lialis burtonis (ambush forager). Consistent with the pattern seen in snakes, L. burtonis exhibits a significantly lower SMR and a higher SDA than does P. lepidopodus. The magnitude of SDA in L. burtonis is comparable to that of some pythons and vipers, providing yet more evidence for the remarkable convergence between this species and ambush-foraging snakes.
Metabolic enzymes in seasonally acclimatized and cold acclimated rufous-collared sparrow inhabiting a Chilean Mediterranean environment
Authors: Peña-Villalobos Isaac , Nuñez-Villegas Mónica , Bozinovic Francisco , Sabat Pablo
Published: February 2016

Due to the higher energy requirements of birds during winter, it is predicted that the activities of metabolic enzymes (e.g., citrate synthase, CS and cytochrome C oxidase, COX) should increase in tandem with increases in rates of energy expenditure (e.g., basal metabolic rate, BMR). However, there is mixed support for the hypothesis of enzymatic acclimatization. Furthermore, there is little information about the effect of ambient temperature on energetics and tissue enzyme activity levels in passerines inhabiting seasonal Mediterranean environments. In this study we evaluated the interplay between BMR and enzyme activities of freshly caught individuals of the passerine Zonotrichia capensis in winter and summer in a Mediterranean environment from central Chile, and also in warm (30°C) and cold (15°C) lab-acclimated birds. The results revealed a lack of seasonal variation in BMR, thermal conductance and in the activity of CS and COX. However, we found higher BMR and lower thermal conductance in cold-acclimated than in warm-acclimated birds. Also, total CS activity was higher in the flight muscles of cold-acclimated than in warm-acclimated birds. We found also a significant correlation between BMR and total CS activity in pectoral muscle. Although some authors have suggested that BMR mainly depends on the metabolic intensity and mass of internal organs, our results revealed that skeletal muscles such as the flight muscles may also affect BMR. Finally, differences in the acclimation and acclimatization responses in Rufous-collared sparrows suggest that large-scale oscillations in the physical environment might maintain the capacity for flexibility in thermogenic traits through generations.
Individual differences in boldness positively correlate with heart rate in orb-weaving spiders of genus Larinioides
Authors: Shearer Taylor A. , Pruitt Jonathan N.
Published: February 2016

Recent years have seen a dramatic increase in the number of studies devoted to consistent individual differences in behavior, termed “behavioral syndromes” or animal “personality”. In particular, ecologists and evolutionary biologists alike seek to explore the functional consequences of individuals’ personalities and explanations for their general maintenance. Understanding the mechanistic underpinnings to personality is arguably key to a deeper understanding of their functional consequences and maintenance. In particular, consistent individual differences in metabolic rate have been proposed as a general explanation for the maintenance of consistent individual differences in boldness, aggressiveness, and activity level. In this paper we explore whether consistent individual differences in boldness are associated with heat rate, a proxy for metabolic rate, in two species of orb-weaving spider: Larinioides cornutus and L. patagiatus. We first documented consistent individual differences in boldness in L. cornutus but not L. patagiatus, as estimated by individuals’ latency to resume movement following an aversive stimulus. We also measured individuals’ heart rate twice in a separate situation. We then tested for an association between individuals’ boldness and their heart rate during these two events. We found that increased boldness was associated with increased heart. Thus, individuals that resumed movement quickly following an aversive stimulus also exhibited faster heart rates. Our studies provide further evidence that consistent individual differences in key physiological attributes, like metabolic rate, might be a general mechanism underlying consistent individual differences in behavior.
Divergent foraging behavior in a hybrid zone: Darwin’s tree finches (Camarhynchus spp.) on Floreana Island
Authors: Peters Katharina J. , Kleindorfer Sonia
Published: February 2016

Hybrid speciation is increasingly recognized as a mechanism for novel evolutionary trajectories. However, we know very little about the ecology of a contact zone that has arisen in sympatry. This study examines the foraging behavior and fitness of two species of Darwin’s tree finches (Camarhynchus parvulus, C. pauper) and hybrid offspring on Floreana Island. Previous study showed that the percentage of hybrids in the tree finch population increased from 19% in 2005 to 41% in 2010, and their body and beak size increased by ~5% (parental phenotype did not change). In 2005–2006, all three tree finch groups (two parental species and hybrid birds) used the same foraging substrate, technique, and height. By 2010–2013, the small tree finch C. par-vulus had changed its foraging technique and the medium tree finch C. pauper had changed its foraging height. Both parental species had higher body condition when foraging at (divergent) mean foraging heights per species but hybrid birds did not. We discuss the implications of conserving forest to facilitate vertical niche expansion and the role of hybridization for genetic persistence.
Experimental evolution, behavior and genetics: Associative learning as a case study
Authors: Versace Elisabetta
Published: February 2016

The evolutionary dynamics of behavioral traits reflect phenotypic and genetic changes. Methodological difficulties in analyzing the genetic dynamics of complex traits have left open questions on the mechanisms that have shaped complex behaviors and cognitive abilities. A strategy to investigate the change of behavior across generations is to assume that genetic constraints have a negligible role in evolution (the phenotypic gambit) and focus on the phenotype as a proxy for genetic evolution. Empirical evidence and technologic advances in genomics question the choice of neglecting the genetic underlying the dynamics of behavioral evolution. I first discuss the relevance of genetic factors – e.g. genetic variability, genetic linkage, gene interactions – in shaping evolution, showing the importance of taking genetic factors into account when dealing with evolutionary dynamics. I subsequently describe the recent advancements in genetics and genomics that make the investigation of the ongoing evolutionary process of behavioral traits finally attainable. In particular, by applying genomic resequencing to experimental evolution – a method called Evolve & Resequence – it is possible to monitor at the same time phenotypic and genomic changes in populations exposed to controlled selective pressures. Experimental evolution of associative learning, a well-known trait that promptly responds to selection, is a convenient model to illustrate this approach applied to behavior and cognition. Taking into account the recent achievements of the field, I discuss how to design and conduct an effective Evolve & Resequence study on associative learning in Drosophila. By integrating phenotypic and genomic data in the investigation of evolutionary dynamics, new insights can be gained on longstanding questions such as the modularity of mind and its evolution.
How incumbents can shape technological choice and market structure – the case of fixed broadband in Europe
Authors: Cave Martin , Shortall Tony
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to consider circumstances when technological neutrality in fixed broadband (according firms the power to determine technological choices untrammelled by regulation or the operation of specific incentives) should be adopted.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper reviews the likely effect of such a policy on the competitive structure of fixed broadband markets, taking four case studies as examples.

Findings

– The paper finds that choices made by broadband firms with respect to the adoption of fibre to the home versus fibre to the premise, the use of vectoring and the variant of fibre to the home adopted (point to point or point to multipoint) can have a significant effect on the nature of access products which can be provided and thus in the market structure of fixed broadband markets. Access providers can, thus, abridge or foreclose competition in downstream markets. Accordingly, regulators may decide to seek to influence such technological choices to promote competition. But this should be done carefully.

Originality/value

– These issues are part of the on-going debate concerning the revision of the European regulatory framework for electronic communications services.
Daily irrigation attenuates xylem abscisic acid concentration and increases leaf water potential of Pelargonium × hortorum compared with infrequent irrigation
Authors: Boyle Richard K.A. , McAinsh Martin , Dodd Ian C.
Published: February 2016

The physiological response of plants to different irrigation frequencies may affect plant growth and water use efficiency (WUE; defined as shoot biomass/cumulative irrigation). Glasshouse‐grown, containerized Pelargonium × hortorum BullsEye plants were irrigated either daily at 100% of plant evapotranspiration (ET) (well‐watered; WW), or at 50% ET applied either daily [frequent deficit irrigation (FDI)] or cumulatively every 4 days [infrequent deficit irrigation (IDI)], for 24 days. Both FDI and IDI applied the same irrigation volume. Xylem sap was collected from the leaves, and stomatal conductance (gs) and leaf water potential (Ψleaf) measured every 2 days. As soil moisture decreased, gs decreased similarly under both FDI and IDI throughout the experiment. Ψleaf was maintained under IDI and increased under FDI. Leaf xylem abscisic acid (ABA) concentrations ([X‐ABA]leaf) increased as soil moisture decreased under both IDI and FDI, and was strongly correlated with decreased gs, but [X‐ABA]leaf was attenuated under FDI throughout the experiment (at the same level of soil moisture as IDI plants). These physiological changes corresponded with differences in plant production. Both FDI and IDI decreased growth compared with WW plants, and by the end of the experiment, FDI plants also had a greater shoot fresh weight (18%) than IDI plants. Although both IDI and FDI had higher WUE than WW plants during the first 10 days of the experiment (when biomass did not differ between treatments), the deficit irrigation treatments had lower WUE than WW plants in the latter stages when growth was limited. Thus, ABA‐induced stomatal closure may not always translate to increased WUE (at the whole plant level) if vegetative growth shows a similar sensitivity to soil drying, and growers must adapt their irrigation scheduling according to crop requirements.
When polymerase chain reaction does not help: cytomegalovirus pneumonitis associated with very low or undetectable viral load in both blood and bronchoalveolar lavage samples after lung transplantation
Authors: Coussement J. , Steensels D. , Nollevaux M.‐C. , Bogaerts P. , Dumonceaux M. , Delaere B. , Froidure A.
Published: February 2016

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) pneumonitis occurs frequently among solid organ transplant recipients and is classically associated with significant viral replication in both blood and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples. We present a case of a 64‐year‐old lung transplant recipient who presented with CMV pneumonitis that was diagnosed based on the association of viral inclusion in the BAL sample, rapid response to ganciclovir, and absence of other infectious etiology. Surprisingly, we observed very low or undetectable viral load both in blood and BAL samples. Diagnosis of CMV pneumonitis should rely on the association of clinical, pathological, radiological, and microbiological signs, while quantitative nucleic acid amplification testing should be interpreted with caution.
Effect of Surface Oxidation on the Onset of Nucleate Boiling in a Materials Test Reactor Coolant Channel
Authors: Forrest Eric C. , Don Sarah M. , Hu Lin-Wen , Buongiorno Jacopo , McKrell Thomas J.
Published: February 2016

The onset of nucleate boiling (ONB) serves as the thermal-hydraulic operating limit for many research and test reactors. However, boiling incipience under forced convection has not been well-characterized in narrow channel geometries or for oxidized surface conditions. This study presents experimental data for the ONB in vertical upflow of deionized (DI) water in a simulated materials test reactor (MTR) coolant channel. The channel gap thickness and aspect ratio were 1.96 mm and 29∶1, respectively. Boiling surface conditions were carefully controlled and characterized, with both heavily oxidized and native oxide surfaces tested. Measurements were performed for mass fluxes ranging from 750 to 3000  kg/m2 s and for subcoolings ranging from 10 to 45°C. ONB was identified using a combination of high-speed visual observation, surface temperature measurements, and channel pressure drop measurements. Surface temperature measurements were found to be most reliable in identifying the ONB. For the nominal (native oxide) surface, results indicate that the correlation of Bergles and Rohsenow, when paired with the appropriate single-phase heat transfer correlation, adequately predicts the ONB heat flux. Incipience on the oxidized surface occurred at a higher heat flux and superheat than on the plain surface.
The Development of Candling Module Code in Module In-vessel Degraded Analysis Code MIDAC and the Relevant Calculation for CPR1000 During Large-Break LOCA
Authors: Wang Jun , Fan Yuqiao , Zhang Yapei , Ni Xinghe , Tian Wenxi , Corradini Michael L. , Su Guanghui , Qiu Suizheng
Published: February 2016

The occurrence of Fukushima has increased the focus on the development of severe accident codes and their applications. As a part of Chinese “National Major Projects,” a module in-vessel degraded analysis code (MIDAC) is currently being developed at Xi’an Jiaotong University. The developing situation of a candling module and relevant calculation for CPR1000 for large break loss of coolant analysis (LOCA) are presented in this paper. The candling module focuses on the melting, moving, and relocation of the melting core materials and necessary thermal hydraulic information. MIDAC’s LOCA accident calculation results of Chinese pressure reactor 1000 (CPR1000) cover the melting mass distribution, peak temperature, and hydrogen generation. The results have been compared with MAAP. Through comparison, the candling module of MIDAC proved to be able to predict the moving trend of the molten material mass relocation in the reactor pressure vessel.
Combining Whole-Brain Radiotherapy with Gefitinib/Erlotinib for Brain Metastases from Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zheng Mao-hua , Sun Hong-tao , Xu Ji-guang , Yang Gang , Huo Lei-ming , Zhang Pan , Tian Jin-hui , Yang Ke-hu
Published: February 2016

Background. To comprehensively assess the efficacy and safety of whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) combined with gefitinib/erlotinib for treatment of brain metastases (BM) from non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Methods. Databases including PubMed, EMBASE.com, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched from inception to April 12, 2015. Studies on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and case-control trials comparing WBRT combined with gefitinib/erlotinib versus WBRT alone for BM from NSCLC were included. Literature selection, data extraction, and quality assessment were performed independently by two trained reviewers. RevMan 5.3 software was used to analyze data.Results. A total of 7 trials involving 622 patients were included. Compared with WBRT alone or WBRT plus chemotherapy, WBRT plus gefitinib/erlotinib could significantly improve response rate (OR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.35–3.47;P=0.001), remission rate of central nervous system (OR = 6.06, 95% CI: 2.57–14.29;P<0.0001), disease control rate (OR = 3.34, 95% CI: 1.84–6.07;P<0.0001), overall survival (HR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.58–0.89;P=0.002), and 1-year survival rate (OR = 2.43, 95% CI: 1.51–3.91;P=0.0002). In adverse events (III-IV), statistically significant differences were not found, except for rash (OR = 7.96, 95% CI: 2.02–31.34;P=0.003) and myelosuppression (OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.07–0.51;P=0.0010).Conclusions. WBRT plus gefitinib/erlotinib was superior to WBRT alone and well tolerated in patients with BM from NSCLC.
Pharmacological Investigation of the Wound Healing Activity of Cestrum nocturnum (L.) Ointment in Wistar Albino Rats
Authors: Nagar Hemant Kumar , Srivastava Amit Kumar , Srivastava Rajnish , Kurmi Madan Lal , Chandel Harinarayan Singh , Ranawat Mahendra Singh
Published: February 2016

Objectives. The present study was aimed at investigating the wound healing effect of ethanolic extract of Cestrum nocturnum (L.) leaves (EECN) using excision and incision wound model. Methods. Wistar albino rats were divided into five groups each consisting of six animals; group I (left untreated) considered as control, group II (ointment base treated) considered as negative control, group III treated with 5% (w/w) povidone iodine ointment (Intadine USP), which served as standard, group IV treated with EECN 2% (w/w) ointment, and group V treated with EECN 5% (w/w) ointment were considered as test groups. All the treatments were given once daily. The wound healing effect was assessed by percentage wound contraction, epithelialization period, and histoarchitecture studies in excision wound model while breaking strength and hydroxyproline content in the incision wound model. Result. Different concentration of EECN (2% and 5% w/w) ointment promoted the wound healing activity significantly in both the models studied. The high rate of wound contraction (P<0.001), decrease in the period for epithelialization (P<0.01), high skin breaking strength (P<0.001), and elevated hydroxyproline content were observed in animal treated with EECN ointments when compared to the control and negative control group of animals. Histopathological studies of the EECN ointments treated groups also revealed the effectiveness in improved wound healing. Conclusions. Ethanolic extract of Cestrum nocturnum (EECN) leaves possesses a concentration dependent wound healing effect.
Assessment of Primary Cancer Incidence in Growth Hormone-Treated Children: Comparison of a Multinational Prospective Observational Study with Population Databases
Authors: Child Christopher J. , Zimmermann Alan G. , Jia Nan , Robison Leslie L. , Brämswig Jürgen H. , Blum Werner F.
Published: February 2016

Background/Aims: Although results of the majority of clinical studies have shown no association between growth hormone (GH) treatment in childhood and risk of primary cancer, concerns remain regarding the potential influence of GH therapy on neoplastic cell growth. This study evaluated the incidence of primary malignancies in a large observational study of paediatric GH treatment. Methods: Primary cancer incidence was assessed in a cohort of 19,054 GH-treated children without a reported prestudy history of malignancy in the observational Genetics and Neuroendocrinology of Short Stature International Study (GeNeSIS). The standardised incidence ratio (SIR) for primary cancer in GH-treated children was determined by comparing cancer incidence in the GeNeSIS study population with incidence rates for country-, age-, and sex-matched cohorts of the general population. Results: During a mean follow-up of 3.4 years in GeNeSIS (64,705 person-years), 13 incident potential primary cancers were identified in GH-treated patients. The SIR (95% confidence interval) for all observed cancers was 1.02 (0.54-1.75), and the crude incidence was 20.1 (10.7-34.4) cases per 100,000 person-years. Conclusion: Acknowledging the relatively short follow-up in our study, GH-treated children without a history of previous malignancy did not have a higher risk of all-site primary cancer during the study when compared to general-population cancer registries.
Possible Challenges on the Path towards Iranian Active Scientific Research Presence in the Antarctic: An International Legal Approach
Authors: Madani Zia E.
Published: February 2016

Recently Iran commenced its scientific research activities in the Antarctic, namely through dispatch of scientists in collaboration with other foreign state scientific institutions with research stations in Antarctica. In the meantime, the Iranian Antarctic research plan received approval of the Iranian Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology and was then submitted to the relevant higher state organs for the allocation of budgets. However, there will be challenges on the trend towards Iranian active participation in the scientific research activities in the Antarctic, particularly from an international legal perspective. The author of this paper has been in charge of doing the preliminary legal studies of the plan in the Iranian National Institute for Oceanography and Atmospheric Science. Accordingly, this paper is intended to tackle the said international legal challenges. These include, but are not limited to: accession to the Antarctic Treaty and the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS); devising and implementing the Iranian polar roadmap in compliance with international law; codification and drafting of necessary domestic laws or/and revision of existing ones; analysis of the international legal regime of the Antarctic, particularly environmental protection; and the linking between Antarctic science and Antarctic policy. Addressing these questions and many others would result in the perception that even prior to becoming a party to the Antarctic Treaty and the ATS, relevant decisions have been made, and measures taken to be compatible with the existing legal regime in the Antarctic.
The Response of the Lower Stratosphere to Zonally Symmetric Thermal and Mechanical Forcing
Authors: Ming Alison , Hitchcock Peter , Haynes Peter
Published: February 2016

The response of the atmosphere to zonally symmetric applied heating and mechanical forcing is considered, allowing for the fact that the response may include a change in the wave force (or “wave drag”). A scaling argument shows that an applied zonally symmetric heating is effective in driving a steady meridional circulation provided that the wave force (required to satisfy angular momentum constraints) is sufficiently sensitive to changes in the mean flow in the sense that the ratio is large, where K is a measure of the sensitivity of the wave force; α, N, and f are the radiative damping rate, buoyancy frequency, and Coriolis parameter, respectively; and and are the horizontal and vertical length scales of the heating, respectively. Furthermore, in the “narrow heating” regime where this ratio is large, the structure of the meridional circulation response is only weakly dependent on the details of the wave force. The scaling arguments are verified by experiments in a dry dynamical circulation model. Consistent with the scaling prediction, the regime does not apply when the width of the imposed heating is increased. The narrow-heating regime is demonstrated to be relevant to the double peak in tropical lower-stratospheric upwelling considered in a companion paper, supporting the hypothesis that this feature is radiatively driven. Similar arguments are applied to show that a narrow zonally symmetric applied mechanical forcing is primarily balanced by a change in wave force. This provides an explanation for the recently identified compensation between resolved and parameterized waves in driving modeled trends in the Brewer–Dobson circulation.
OPTIMIZATION OF SOWN AREA STRUCTURE OF CROPS BY ECONOMIC AND MATHEMATICAL MODELING: PRACTICAL ASPECT
Authors: Нуретдинова  , Nuretdinova Yuliya , Нуретдинов  , Nuretdinov Ildar , Хасянов  , Khasyanov Oleg
Published: February 2016

The article is devoted to updating of methods of economic and mathematical modeling, determining the factors, that create an interconnected system, that have a significant effect on the efficiency indices of land use.
Relationship between pelvic incidence and osteoarthritis of the hip
Authors: Gebhart J. J. , Weinberg D. S. , Bohl M. S. , Liu R. W.
Published: February 2016

Objectives

Sagittal alignment of the lumbosacral spine, and specifically pelvic incidence (PI), has been implicated in the development of spine pathology, but generally ignored with regards to diseases of the hip. We aimed to determine if increased PI is correlated with higher rates of hip osteoarthritis (HOA). The effect of PI on the development of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) was used as a negative control.

Methods

We studied 400 well-preserved cadaveric skeletons ranging from 50 to 79 years of age at death. Each specimen’s OA of the hip and knee were graded using a previously described method. PI was measured from standardised lateral photographs of reconstructed pelvises. Multiple regression analysis was performed to determine the relationship between age and PI with HOA and KOA.

Results

The mean age was 60.2 years (standard deviation (sd) 8.1), and the mean PI was 46.7° (sd 10.7°). Multiple regression analysis demonstrated a significant correlation between increased PI and HOA (standardised beta = 0.103, p = 0.017). There was no correlation between PI and KOA (standardised beta = 0.003, p = 0.912).

Conclusion

Higher PI in the younger individual may contribute to the development of HOA in later life. Cite this article: Dr J. J. Gebhart. Relationship between pelvic incidence and osteoarthritis of the hip. Bone Joint Res 2016;5:66–72. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.52.2000552.
Sex differences in the MB49 syngeneic, murine model of bladder cancer
Authors: White-Gilbertson Shai , Davis Megan , Voelkel-Johnson Christina , M. Kasman Laura
Published: February 2016

Objective: The MB49 syngeneic, murine model of bladder cancer has been widely used for more than 35 years.  In humans, bladder cancer is one third as prevalent in women as in men, with a trend toward lower prevalence in parous compared to nulliparous women. Our objective was to determine if the MB49 bladder cancer model reproduces the sex differences observed in humans, and to determine its sensitivity to testosterone and the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
Methods: Male and female C57BL/6 mice were implanted with MB49 murine bladder cancer cells, and observed for tumor growth. MB49 dose responses to hCG and dihydrotestosterone were determined in vitro.
Results: MB49 tumor growth was significantly greater in male mice than female mice. Pregnancy did not affect MB49 tumor growth in female mice. MB49 cells did not proliferate in response to hCG in vitro and the functional receptor for gonadotropins was absent. Dihydrotestosterone strongly stimulated growth of MB49 cells in vitro.
Conclusions:  The MB49 murine model of bladder cancer reproduced some aspects of the sex differences observed in humans. Our results suggest that testosterone may stimulate MB49 cell proliferation, which may explain the more rapid MB49 tumor growth observed in male mice.
Indijos fantazija Didžiosios Britanijos „paveldo filmuose“: „Kelio į Indiją“ analizė
Authors: Valančiūnas Deimantas
Published: February 2016

This article deals with the reconfiguration of the co­lonial discourse and imagining the ‘Other’ in Britishheritage films and the analysis of David Lean’s film A Passage to India (1984)-an adaptation of F.M. Fors­ter’s novel of the same title and a representative of a specific subgenre of the ‘heritage films’, known also as the ‘Raj revival’. The analysis of Lean’s A Passage to India is carried out in relation to the ‘Thatcherite’ era, conservative politics in Britain, and the ideologi­cally constructed nostalgic gaze to the colonial past. As the analysis of the film has showed, the film is rather ambiguous. On the one hand, the film displays a critical attitude towards the Empire and emphasizes the brutality and inconsistency of the colonial regime in India, while on the other hand it invites the specta­tors to enjoy India as a nostalgic colonial spectacle and constructs it through the sexualisation and orientalisa­tion of the country. The analysis has also showed that the film recharges its characters with an erotic content. The film A Passage to India eroticises the Indian man, where the character of Aziz is constructed as a man ra­diating a dangerous sexuality, which may lead to pain­ful psychopathological consequences when encounte­red by a British woman – a discourse which becomes relevant once again in relation to the anti-immigration politics of the ‘Thatcherite’ Britain of the ’80s.
Images of the Four Heavenly Kings in Unified Silla As the Symbol of National Defense
Authors: Lim Young-Ae
Published: February 2016

This paper aims to examine the role of the Four Heavenly Kings in Silla. The Four Heavenly Kings first created in Silla were all enshrined in the royal memorial temples. The temples are also those situated respectively in the four directions, with Silla royal capital at the center. The fact that they were all enshrined in the royal memorial temples, especially in the stupa, proves that the Four Heavenly Kings had their own special implications. The role of the Four Heavenly Kings in Silla was not only to protect the temple, but also, more importantly, to protect the whole nation.
Estamos seguros? Reflexões sobre indicadores de avaliação da segurança alimentar e nutricional
Authors: AZEVEDO Elaine de , RIBAS Maria Teresa Gomes de Oliveira
Published: February 2016

O conceito de segurança alimentar e nutricional, construído coletivamente no cenário brasileiro, apresenta-se como um elemento catalizador de importantes reflexões na área de Nutrição Social. Este texto tem como objetivo refletir sobre as formas e os indicadores de avaliação em segurança alimentar e nutricional no Brasil. Esta breve reflexão se debruça sobre os desafios dos especialistas e pesquisadores da área em questão para abarcar seus princípios interdisciplinares; além disso, espera motivar o interesse pela elaboração de novos indicadores de avaliação e de metodologias e instrumentos de coleta de informação mais abrangentes e sistêmicos. Julga-se importante promover a reflexão sobre as limitações das escalas de mensuração da (in)segurança alimentar e nutricional em apontar e abarcar as complementaridades entre a vivência dessa insegurança e os processos e agentes de produção do fenômeno. Ressalta-se como desejável a inclusão da leitura do processo saúde-doença e o cuidado das morbidades resultantes da insegurança alimentar e nutricional como questões a serem exploradas em futuros estudos dessa temática.
Acquisition and Cataloguing Processes: Changes as a Result of Customer Value Discovery Research
Authors: McKnight Sue
Published: February 2016

Objective: This study seeks to highlight the profound effect of Customer Value Discovery research on the internal business processes of two university libraries in the areas of cataloguing and acquisitions.

Methods: In this project, “Customer Discovery Workshops” with academic staff, students, and university stakeholders provided library managers and staff with information on what services and resources were of value to customers. The workshops also aimed to discover what features of existing library services and resources irritated the students, staff, and faculty. A student satisfaction survey assessed longer-term impact of library changes to students in one university.

Results: The findings resulted in significant changes to collection development, acquisitions, and cataloguing processes. A number of value added services were introduced for the customer. The project also resulted in greater speed and efficiency in dealing with collection development, acquisitions, and cataloguing by the introduction of more technology-enhanced services. Overall customer satisfaction was improved during the project period.

Conclusions: The changes to services introduced as a result of customer feedback also improved relationships between librarians and their university community, through the introduction of a more proactive and supportive service.
ClimateQUAL® and Thinklets: Using ClimateQUAL® with Group Support Systems to Facilitate Discussion and Set Priorities for Organizational Change at Criss Library
Authors: DeFrank Audrey , Hillyer Nora
Published: February 2016

Objective – This article discusses a series of actions taken by the Criss Library at the University of Nebraska at Omaha to implement organizational change, using the ClimateQUAL® survey and facilitated discussions with ThinkTank™ group decision software. The library had experienced significant changes over a five-year period, with a renovation of the facility and three reorganizations resulting in a 50% staff turnover. Recognizing the strain that years of construction and personnel changes had placed on the organization, there was a desire to uncover the mood of the employees and reveal the issues behind low morale, uneasiness, and fear.

Methods – In November 2009, the library conducted a ClimateQUAL® survey to develop a baseline to assess the effectiveness of any changes. After the results were distributed to library faculty and staff, a series of two-hour facilitated discussions was held to gather opinions and ideas for solutions using thinkLets, a pattern language for reasoning toward a goal. The group support system ThinkTank™ software was loaded onto computers, and employees were able to add their ideas anonymously during the sessions. Finally, 12 employees (29%) completed a four-question survey on their perceptions of the facilitated discussions.

Results – The facilitated discussions returned 76 sub-themes in 12 categories: staffing and scheduling issues, staff unity/teamwork, communication, goodwill/morale, accountability, decision-making, policy issues, skills and training, leadership, ergonomics/physical work environment, respect, and bullying. An advisory team culled the 76 sub-themes into 40 improvement strategies. Five were implemented immediately, and the remaining 35 were scheduled to be presented to the faculty and staff via an online survey. Participants’ perceptions of the facilitated discussions were mixed. Eighty-three percent of respondents reported that they did not feel safe speaking out about issues, most likely because a supervisor was present.

Conclusion – Improving organizational climate is a continuous and iterative process that leads to a healthy environment.
Key Performance Indicators in Irish Hospital Libraries: Developing Outcome-Based Metrics to Support Advocacy and Service Delivery
Authors: Dalton Michelle
Published: February 2016

Objective – To develop a set of generic outcome-based performance measures for Irish hospital libraries.

Methods – Various models and frameworks of performance measurement were used as a theoretical paradigm to link the impact of library services directly with measurable healthcare objectives and outcomes. Strategic objectives were identified, mapped to performance indicators, and finally translated into response choices to a single-question online survey for distribution via email.

Results – The set of performance indicators represents an impact assessment tool which is easy to administer across a variety of healthcare settings. In using a model directly aligned with the mission and goals of the organization, and linked to core activities and operations in an accountable way, the indicators can also be used as a channel through which to implement action, change, and improvement.

Conclusion – The indicators can be adopted at a local and potentially a national level, as both a tool for advocacy and to assess and improve service delivery at a macro level. To overcome the constraints posed by necessary simplifications, substantial further research is needed by hospital libraries to develop more sophisticated and meaningful measures of impact to further aid decision making at a micro level.
Changing Auditors And The Influence Of Client Specific Attributes: An Analysis
Authors: Sriram Ram S.
Published: February 2016

This article examines certain client specific attributes of a group firms to ascertain whether some of these attributes are more closely associated with firms switching auditors. The results indicate that firms receiving a qualified opinion and small firms and those listed in over the trading counter to be more likely to change auditors. Firms audited by bigger audit firms appear to be less likely to switch auditors.