bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIGH DIMENSIONAL ELLENTUCK SPACES AND INITIAL CHAINS IN THE TUKEY STRUCTURE OF NON-P-POINTS
Authors: DOBRINEN NATASHA
Published: March 2016

The generic ultrafilter${\cal G}_2 $forced by${\cal P}\left( {\omega \times \omega } \right)/\left( {{\rm{Fin}} \otimes {\rm{Fin}}} \right)$was recently proved to be neither maximum nor minimum in the Tukey order of ultrafilters ([1]), but it was left open where exactly in the Tukey order it lies. We prove${\cal G}_2 $that is in fact Tukey minimal over its projected Ramsey ultrafilter. Furthermore, we prove that for each${\cal G}_2 $, the collection of all nonprincipal ultrafilters Tukey reducible to the generic ultrafilter${\cal G}_k $forced by${\cal P}\left( {\omega ^k } \right)/{\rm{Fin}}^{ \otimes k} $forms a chain of lengthk. Essential to the proof is the extraction of a dense subsetεkfrom (Fin⊗k)+which we prove to be a topological Ramsey space. The spacesεk,k≥ 2, form a hierarchy of high dimensional Ellentuck spaces. New Ramsey-classification theorems for equivalence relations on fronts on εkare proved, extending the Pudlák–Rödl Theorem for fronts on the Ellentuck space, which are applied to find the Tukey and Rudin–Keisler structures below${\cal G}_k $.
DEPENDENCE LOGIC IN PREGEOMETRIES ANDω-STABLE THEORIES
Authors: PAOLINI GIANLUCA , VÄÄNÄNEN JOUKO
Published: March 2016

We present a framework for studying the concept of independence in a general context covering database theory, algebra and model theory as special cases. We show that well-known axioms and rules of independence for making inferences concerning basic atomic independence statements are complete with respect to a variety of semantics. Our results show that the uses of independence concepts in as different areas as database theory, algebra, and model theory, can be completely characterized by the same axioms. We also consider concepts related to independence, such as dependence.
ON RAMSEY’S THEOREM AND THE EXISTENCE OF INFINITE CHAINS OR INFINITE ANTI-CHAINS IN INFINITE POSETS
Authors: TACHTSIS ELEFTHERIOS
Published: March 2016

Ramsey’s Theorem is naturally connected to the statement “every infinite partially ordered set has either an infinite chain or an infinite anti-chain”. Indeed, it is a well-known result that Ramsey’s Theorem implies the latter principle.

In the book “Consequences of the Axiom of Choice” by P. Howard and J. E. Rubin, it is stated as unknown whether the above implication is reversible, that is whether the principle “every infinite partially ordered set has either an infinite chain or an infinite anti-chain” implies Ramsey’s Theorem. The purpose of this paper is to settle the aforementioned open problem. In particular, we construct a suitable Fraenkel–Mostowski permutation model ${\cal N}$ for ZFA and prove that the above principle for infinite partially ordered sets is true in ${\cal N}$, whereas Ramsey’s Theorem is false in ${\cal N}$. Then, based on the existence of ${\cal N}$ and on results of D. Pincus, we show that there is a model of ZF which satisfies “every infinite partially ordered set has either an infinite chain or an infinite anti-chain” and the negation of Ramsey’s Theorem.

In addition, we prove that Ramsey’s Theorem (hence, the above principle for infinite partially ordered sets) is true in Mostowski’s linearly ordered model, filling the gap of information in the book “Consequences of the Axiom of Choice”.
THE TUKEY ORDER ON COMPACT SUBSETS OF SEPARABLE METRIC SPACES
Authors: GARTSIDE PAUL , MAMATELASHVILI ANA
Published: March 2016

One partially ordered set, Q, is a Tukey quotient of another, P, if there is a map (a Tukey quotient) $\phi :P \to Q$ carrying cofinal sets of P to cofinal sets of Q. Two partial orders which are mutual Tukey quotients of each other are said to be Tukey equivalent. Let ${\cal D}_{\rm{}} $ be the partially ordered set of Tukey equivalence classes of directed sets of size $ \le {\rm{}}$. It is shown that ${\cal D}_{\rm{}} $ contains an antichain of size $2^{\rm{}} $, and so has size $2^{\rm{}} $. The elements of the antichain are of the form ${\cal K}\left( M \right)$, the set of compact subsets of a separable metrizable space M, ordered by inclusion. The order structure of such ${\cal K}\left( M \right)$’s under Tukey quotients is investigated. Relative Tukey quotients are introduced. Applications are given to function spaces and to the complexity of weakly countably determined Banach spaces and Gul’ko compacta.
FORKING AND SUPERSTABILITY IN TAME AECS
Authors: VASEY SEBASTIEN
Published: March 2016

We prove that any tame abstract elementary class categorical in a suitable cardinal has an eventually global good frame: a forking-like notion defined on all types of single elements. This gives the first known general construction of a good frame in ZFC. We show that we already obtain a well-behaved independence relation assuming only a superstability-like hypothesis instead of categoricity. These methods are applied to obtain an upward stability transfer theorem from categoricity and tameness, as well as new conditions for uniqueness of limit models.
STABLE CANONICAL RULES
Authors: BEZHANISHVILI GURAM , BEZHANISHVILI NICK , IEMHOFF ROSALIE
Published: March 2016

We introduce stable canonical rules and prove that each normal modal multi-conclusion consequence relation is axiomatizable by stable canonical rules. We apply these results to construct finite refutation patterns for modal formulas, and prove that each normal modal logic is axiomatizable by stable canonical rules. We also define stable multi-conclusion consequence relations and stable logics and prove that these systems have the finite model property. We conclude the paper with a number of examples of stable and nonstable systems, and show how to axiomatize them.
THE MODAL LOGIC OF INNER MODELS
Authors: INAMDAR TANMAY , LÖWE BENEDIKT
Published: March 2016

Using techniques developed by Hamkins, Reitz and the second author, we determine the modal logic of inner models.
À LA RECHERCHE DU TORE PERDU
Authors: BLOSSIER THOMAS , MARTIN-PIZARRO AMADOR , WAGNER FRANK O.
Published: March 2016

Un groupe interprétable dans le mauvais corps vert est isogène à un quotient d’un sous-groupe définissable d’un groupe algébrique par une puissance du groupe vert. Un sous-groupe définissable d’un groupe algébrique dans un corps vert ou rouge est une extension des points colorés d’un groupe algébrique multiplicatif ou additif par un groupe algébrique. En particulier, tout groupe simple définissable dans un corps coloré est algébrique.
Heterogeneity in the Militarized Interstate Disputes (MIDs), 1816–2001: What Fatal MIDs Cannot Fix
Authors: Gibler Douglas M. , Little Erin K.
Published: March 2016

We examine a major source of heterogeneity across cases in the Correlates of War Militarized Interstate Dispute Dataset, 1816–2001, and demonstrate that this variation across cases biases most analyses of conflict. Disputes are coded using two logics—the familiar state-to-state militarized action represents one case while the second relies on sponsor governments to protest state targeting of private citizens. We show that the latter introduces additional measurement bias and does not match well the original conceptualization of what constituted a dispute. The protest-dependent cases are caused by different processes, and omitting them from analyses provides truer estimates of the effects of most conflict predictors. We find that previous controls for heterogeneity in the dispute data—such as using fatal militarized interstate disputes only—substantially underestimates the dangerous effects of contiguity and the pacifying effects of regime similarity. We also show that governments are seldom willing to risk militarized conflict for private citizens during these unique cases. We provide a list of the protest-dependent cases for future conflict analyses.
Assessing the impact of climate change on crop management in winter wheat – a case study for Eastern Austria
Authors: EBRAHIMI E. , MANSCHADI A. M. , NEUGSCHWANDTNER R. W. , EITZINGER J , THALER S. , KAUL H.-P.
Published: March 2016

Climate change is expected to affect optimum agricultural management practices for autumn-sown wheat, especially those related to sowing date and nitrogen (N) fertilization. To assess the direction and quantity of these changes for an important production region in eastern Austria, the agricultural production systems simulator was parameterized, evaluated and subsequently used to predict yield production and grain protein content under current and future conditions. Besides a baseline climate (BL, 1981–2010), climate change scenarios for the period 2035–65 were derived from three Global Circulation Models (GCMs), namely CGMR, IPCM4 and MPEH5, with two emission scenarios, A1B and B1. Crop management scenarios included a combination of three sowing dates (20 September, 20 October, 20 November) with four N fertilizer application rates (60, 120, 160, 200 kg/ha). Each management scenario was run for 100 years of stochastically generated daily weather data. The model satisfactorily simulated productivity as well as water and N use of autumn- and spring-sown wheat crops grown under different N supply levels in the 2010/11 and 2011/12 experimental seasons. Simulated wheat yields under climate change scenarios varied substantially among the three GCMs. While wheat yields for the CGMR model increased slightly above the BL scenario, under IPCM4 projections they were reduced by 29 and 32% with low or high emissions, respectively. Wheat protein appears to increase with highest increments in the climate scenarios causing the largest reductions in grain yield (IPCM4 and MPEH-A1B). Under future climatic conditions, maximum wheat yields were predicted for early sowing (September 20) with 160 kg N/ha applied at earlier dates than the current practice.
Germination and seedling emergence responses of common bean and cowpea to plant extract seed treatments
Authors: MASANGWA J. I. G. , KRITZINGER Q. , AVELING T. A. S.
Published: March 2016

The present study was initiated to investigate the effect of crude plant extracts as seed treatments onPhaseolus vulgaris(common bean) andVigna unguiculata(cowpea) seed germination and emergence in the presence ofColletotrichum lindemuthianumandColletotrichum dematium,respectively. Common bean and cowpea seeds were treated with crude water and acetone extracts ofAgapanthus caulescensSpreng.,Allium sativumL.,Carica papayaL. andSyzygium cordatumHochst.ex Krauss at 5 and 15 mg/ml concentrations. Seeds treated with the synthetic fungicide fludioxonil+mefenoxam (the commercial product Celest®XL) represented the positive control, whereas dimethyl sulphoxide and water-soaked seeds represented negative controls. The rolled paper towel method of the International Seed Testing Association was used to investigate the effect of the treatments on seed germination. Mean emergence time (MET) was determined using seed inoculated with the respective pathogens. The changes in the ultrastructure of embryonic roots and the connecting tissues of embryo-cotyledon of common bean and cowpea treated withSyzygiumacetone extracts andAgapanthuswater extracts were investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). High germination percentages of >90% were observed in bean seeds from two production seasons treated with low concentrations of water extracts ofAllium, SyzygiumandAgapanthusand acetone extracts ofAllium, AgapanthusandCarica. These treatments also recorded high emergence percentages with low MET values, which were similar to the water control. Cowpea seeds treated withCaricawater extract had the highest germination and emergence.Syzygiumacetone was the only extract that gave higher germination and emergence in both IT93K5132 and PAN 311 varieties. Therefore,Caricawater andSyzygiumacetone extracts can be considered as potential bean and cowpea seed treatments. Generally, there were inconsistencies in terms of correlations of germination with emergence percentages in both cowpea and bean seed treated with plant extracts used in the study, which could be due to differences in vigour. The TEM study of embryo-cotyledon tissue of both species revealed thatSyzygiumandAgapanthusextract seed treatment may accelerate metabolic processes as evidenced by the presence of vacuoles, many cristae and few lipid bodies.
CEO Personal Risk-Taking and Corporate Policies
Authors: Cain Matthew D. , McKeon Stephen B.
Published: March 2016

This study analyzes the relation between chief executive officer (CEO) personal risk-taking, corporate risk-taking, and total firm risk. We find evidence that CEOs who possess private pilot licenses (our proxy for personal risk-taking) are associated with riskier firms. Firms led by pilot CEOs have higher equity return volatility, beyond the amount explained by compensation components that financially reward risk-taking. We trace the source of the elevated firm risk to specific corporate policies, including leverage and acquisition activity. Our results suggest that nonpecuniary risk preferences revealed outside the scope of the firm have implications for project selection and various corporate policies.
Size, sex and reproductive biology of seven pelagic sharks in the eastern Arabian Sea
Authors: Varghese Sijo P. , Unnikrishnan N. , Gulati Deepak K. , Ayoob A. E.
Published: March 2016

Studies on reproduction in sharks are important for their management, since the attainment of sexual maturity has a substantial impact on their distribution, behaviour and biology. However, reproductive biology of large oceanic sharks is poorly studied in the Indian seas. In this study, the size structure, sex and maturity of pelagic thresher (Alopias pelagicus), bigeye thresher (A. superciliosus), oceanic whitetip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus), tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier), shortfin mako (Isurus oxyrinchus), longfin mako (I. paucus) and blue shark (Prionace glauca) in the eastern Arabian Sea are described based on 1449 specimens collected from gillnet-cum-longline landings at the Cochin fisheries harbour during 2013–2014. Sex ratios of sampled specimens were biased to males in pelagic thresher, bigeye thresher, tiger shark and blue shark, while females dominated in the specimens of oceanic whitetip shark. Females matured at greater lengths than males in all species except oceanic whitetip shark. Lengths at maturity for males were in the range of 189.05–286.56 cm, whereas those of females were in the range of 187.74–310.69 cm. Litter sizes of both the thresher shark species were always two, while in oceanic whitetip shark, litter size was 3–9 and 22–51 in tiger shark. Seasonal reproduction was noticed in oceanic whitetip shark and tiger shark. Pregnant females were not found in the blue shark, shortfin and longfin makos sampled during the study period. Reproductive aspects of pelagic thresher, bigeye thresher, oceanic whitetip shark, tiger shark, shortfin mako, longfin mako and blue sharks in the eastern Arabian Sea are generally consistent with earlier reports from other regions of the world's oceans. These preliminary findings should be useful to identify suitable management measures for the above shark species.
TheCHRM3gene is implicated in abnormal thalamo-orbital frontal cortex functional connectivity in first-episode treatment-naive patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Wang Q. , Cheng W. , Li M. , Ren H. , Hu X. , Deng W. , Li M. , Ma X. , Zhao L. , Wang Y. , Xiang B. , Wu H.-M. , Sham P. C. , Feng J. , Li T.
Published: March 2016

Background

The genetic influences in human brain structure and function and impaired functional connectivities are the hallmarks of the schizophrenic brain. To explore how common genetic variants affect the connectivities in schizophrenia, we applied genome-wide association studies assaying the abnormal neural connectivities in schizophrenia as quantitative traits.

Method

We recruited 161 first-onset and treatment-naive patients with schizophrenia and 150 healthy controls. All the participants underwent scanning with a 3 T-magnetic resonance imaging scanner to acquire structural and functional imaging data and genotyping using the HumanOmniZhongHua-8 BeadChip. The brain-wide association study approach was employed to account for the inherent modular nature of brain connectivities.

Results

We found differences in four abnormal functional connectivities [left rectus to left thalamus (REC.L–THA.L), left rectus to right thalamus (REC.L–THA.R), left superior orbital cortex to left thalamus (ORBsup.L–THA.L) and left superior orbital cortex to right thalamus (ORBsup.L–THA.R)] between the two groups. Univariate single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based association revealed that the SNP rs6800381, located nearest to theCHRM3(cholinergic receptor, muscarinic 3) gene, reached genomic significance (p= 1.768 × 10−8) using REC.L–THA.R as the phenotype. Multivariate gene-based association revealed that theFAM12A(family with sequence similarity 12, member A) gene nearly reached genomic significance (nominalp= 2.22 × 10–6, correctedp= 0.05).

Conclusions

Overall, we identified the first evidence that theCHRM3gene plays a role in abnormal thalamo-orbital frontal cortex functional connectivity in first-episode treatment-naive patients with schizophrenia. Identification of these genetic variants using neuroimaging genetics provides insights into the causes of variability in human brain development, and may help us determine the mechanisms of dysfunction in schizophrenia.
COST-EFFECTIVENESS OF TREATMENTS FOR MILD-TO-MODERATE OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA IN FRANCE
Authors: Poullié Anne-Isabelle , Cognet Magali , Gauthier Aline , Clementz Marine , Druais Sylvain , Späth Hans-Martin , Perrier Lionel , Scemama Oliver , Pichon Catherine Rumeau , Harousseau Jean-Luc
Published: March 2016

Objectives: Untreated obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is associated with excessive daytime sleepiness, increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease, and road traffic accidents (RTAs), which impact survival and health-related quality of life. This study, funded by the French National Authority for Health (HAS), aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of different treatments (i.e., continuous positive airway pressure [CPAP], dental devices, lifestyle advice, and no treatment) in patients with mild-to-moderate OSAHS in France.

Methods: A Markov model was developed to simulate the progression of two cohorts, stratified by CV risk, over a lifetime horizon. Daytime sleepiness and RTAs were taken into account for all patients while CV events were only considered for patients with high CV risk.

Results: For patients with low CV risk, incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of dental devices versus no treatment varied between 32,976 EUR (moderate OSAHS) and 45,579 EUR (mild OSAHS) per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY), and CPAP versus dental devices, above 256,000 EUR/QALY. For patients with high CV risk, CPAP was associated with a gain of 0.62 QALY compared with no treatment, resulting in an ICER of 10,128 EUR/QALY.

Conclusion: The analysis suggests that it is efficient to treat all OSAHS patients with high CV risk with CPAP and that dental devices are more efficient than CPAP for mild-to-moderate OSAHS with low CV risk. However, out-of-pocket costs are currently much higher for dental devices than for CPAP (i.e., 3,326 EUR versus 2,430 EUR) as orthodontic treatment is mainly non-refundable in France.
Vulnerability
Authors: CUNHA THIAGO , GARRAFA VOLNEI
Published: March 2016

Collating the concepts of vulnerability through five regional perspectives on bioethics from the United States, Europe, Latin America, Africa, and Asia, this article proposes a means of integration between the different approaches in order to seek a theoretical and normative basis for the field of global bioethics. It argues that only through opening continuous, critical, and self-critical dialogue within the international bioethical community will it be possible to achieve a sufficiently global understanding of vulnerability that is capable of identifying the means needed for addressing the conditions that leave certain groups and individuals more susceptible to “wounding” than others.
Vulnerability and Trustworthiness
Authors: BARNARD DAVID
Published: March 2016

Although recent literature on professionalism in healthcare abounds in recommended character traits, attitudes, or behaviors, with a few exceptions, the recommendations are untethered to any serious consideration of the contours and ethical demands of the healing relationship. This article offers an approach based on the professional’s commitment to trustworthiness in response to the vulnerability of those seeking professional help. Because our willingness and ability to trust health professionals or healthcare institutions are affected by our personality, culture, race, age, prior experiences with illness and healthcare, and socioeconomic and political circumstances—“the social determinants of trust”—the attitudes and behaviors that actually do gain trust are patient and context specific. Therefore, in addition to the commitment to cultivating attitudes and behaviors that embody trustworthiness, professionalism also includes the commitment to actually gaining a patient’s or family’s trust by learning, through individualized dialogue, which conditions would win their justified trust, given their particular history and social situation.
Paediatric cardiology fellowship training: effect of work-hour regulations on scholarly activity
Authors: Ronai Christina , Lang Peter
Published: March 2016

Background

In 2003, work-hour regulations were implemented by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Much has been published regarding resident rest and quality of life as well as patient safety. There has been no examination on the effect of work-hour restrictions on academic productivity of fellows in training. Paediatric subspecialty fellows have a scholarly requirement mandated by the American Board of Pediatrics. We have examined the impact of work-hour restrictions on the scholarly productivity of paediatric cardiology fellows during their fellowship.

Methods

We conducted a literature search for all paediatric cardiology fellows between 1998 and 2007 at a single academic institution as first or senior authors on papers published during their 3-year fellowship and 3 years after completion of their categorical fellowship (n=63, 30 fellows before 2003 and 33 fellows after 2003). The numbers of first- or senior-author fellow publications before and after 2003 were compared. We also collected data on final paediatric cardiology subspecialty career choice.

Results

There was no difference in the number of fellow first-author publications before and after 2003. Before work-hour restrictions, the mean number of publications per fellow was 2.1 (±2.2), and after work-hour restrictions it was 2.0 (±1.8), (p=0.89). By subspecialty career choice, fellows who select electrophysiology, preventative cardiology, and heart failure always published within the 6-year time period.

Conclusions

Since the implementation of work-hour regulations, total number of fellow first-authored publications has not changed. The role of subspecialty choice may play a role in academic productivity of fellows in training.
Food insecurity among people who inject drugs in Los Angeles and San Francisco
Authors: Schmitz Jane , Kral Alex H , Chu Daniel , Wenger Lynn D , Bluthenthal Ricky N
Published: March 2016

Objective

We estimated the prevalence of food insecurity among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Los Angeles and San Francisco and explored correlates of food insecurity.

Design

A cross-sectional study that measured 30 d food insecurity using the US Adult Food Security Survey ten-item Module developed by the US Department of Agriculture. Food insecurity was defined as including low and very low food security.

Setting

Two cities in the state of California, USA.

Subjects

Male and female active PWID (n 777).

Results

Among participants, 58 % reported food insecurity and 41 % reported very low food security. Food-insecure PWID were more likely to report being homeless (prevalence ratio (PR)=1·20; 95 % CI 1·05, 1·37), chest pain in the past 12 months (PR=1·19; CI 1·06, 1·35), acquiring syringes from someone who goes to a syringe exchange programme (PR=1·27; 95 % CI 1·13, 1·43) and feeling at risk for arrest for possession of drug paraphernalia (PR=1·30; 95 % CI 1·15, 1·46).

Conclusions

Current food insecurity was common among PWID in these two cities, yet few factors were independently associated with food insecurity. These data suggest that broad strategies to improve food access for this high-risk population are urgently needed.
The effect of providing lipid-based nutrient supplements on morbidity in rural Malawian infants and young children: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bendabenda Jaden , Alho Lotta , Ashorn Ulla , Cheung Yin Bun , Dewey Kathryn G , Vosti Stephen A , Phuka John , Maleta Kenneth , Ashorn Per
Published: March 2016

Objective

Safety of home fortificants in children is uncertain in areas where infections are common. We tested the hypothesis that provision of lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNS) containing Fe does not increase infectious morbidity in children.

Design

Randomized controlled trial. Infants were randomised to receive 10, 20 or 40 g LNS/d; or no supplement until age 18 months. All LNS contained 6 mg Fe/d. Morbidity outcomes (serious adverse events, non-scheduled visits and guardian-reported morbidity episodes) were compared between control and intervention groups using a non-inferiority margin of 20 %.

Setting

Namwera and Mangochi catchment areas in rural Malawi.

Subjects

Infants aged 6 months (n1932).

Results

The enrolled 1932 infants contributed 1306 child-years of follow-up. Baseline characteristics were similar across groups. Compared with the control group, the relative risk (95 % CI) of serious adverse events was 0·71 (0·48, 1·07), 0·67 (0·48, 0·95) and 0·91 (0·66, 1·25) in 10, 20 and 40 g LNS/d groups, respectively. The incidence rate ratio (95 % CI) of non-scheduled visits due to malaria was 1·10 (0·88, 1·37), 1·08 (0·89, 1·31) and 1·21 (1·00, 1·46), and of guardian-reported morbidity episodes was 1·04 (0·96, 1·11), 1·03 (0·97, 1·10) and 1·04 (0·97, 1·10), in the respective LNS groups.

Conclusions

Provision of 10 and 20 g LNS/d containing 6 mg Fe/d did not increase morbidity in the children. Provision of 40 g LNS/d did not affect guardian-reported illness episodes but may have increased malaria-related non-scheduled visits.
Radiation Therapists’ and Diagnostic Radiographers’ participation in continuing professional development and knowledge of Regulatory Body Registration
Authors: Walsh Ríona , Craig Agnella
Published: March 2016

Background

Irish healthcare has seen radical reforms in recent years. Regulatory Body Registration was introduced to improve patient care and regulate professionals. Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a requirement of registration. Professionals need to keep up-to-date with new techniques and technologies while maintaining their skills.

Purpose

This research assessed the factors affecting CPD participation in Radiation Therapists and Diagnostic Radiographers and their knowledge and attitudes towards Regulatory Body Registration.

Materials and methods

Online surveys were designed and made available on the Irish Institute of Radiography and Radiation Therapy (IIRRT) Website for IIRRT members. The responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and χ2 tests in a statistical computer programme.

Results

Personal development, time, cost and staff shortages negatively affect CPD participation. Reflective practise is not a barrier to CPD. Knowledge and attitudes to Regulatory Body Registration varied.

Conclusion

CPD must be developed in Radiation Therapy and Diagnostic Radiography. Funding, time and increased staffing could result in effective implementation of CPD. Regulatory Body Registration has been communicated but more information regarding the process is required.
The Lost and the New ‘Liberal World’ of Welfare Capitalism: A Critical Assessment of Gøsta Esping-Andersen'sThe Three Worlds of Welfare Capitalisma Quarter Century Later
Authors: Deeming Christopher
Published: March 2016

Celebrating the 25th birthday of Gøsta Esping-Andersen's seminal bookThe Three Worlds of Welfare Capitalism(1990), this article looks back at the old ‘liberal world’ and examines the new. In so doing, it contributes to debates and the literature on liberal welfare state development in three main ways. First, it considers the concept of ‘liberalism’ and liberal ideas about welfare provision contained withinThree Worlds. Here we are also interested in how liberal thought has conceptualised the (welfare) state, and the class-mobilisation theory of welfare-state development. Second, the article elaborates on ‘neo-’liberal social reforms and current welfare arrangements in the English-speaking democracies and their welfare states. Finally, it considers the extent to which the English-speaking world of welfare capitalism is still meaningfully ‘liberal’ and coherent today.
Predispersal seed predation on three Vachellia species and one Senegalia species (Fabaceae: Mimosoideae) in the Rift Valley of Ethiopia and Menagesha forest, Ethiopia
Authors: Yirgu Abraham
Published: March 2016

This study on predispersal seed predation of the leguminous speciesVachellia abyssinica(Hochst. Ex. Benth.) Kyal & Boatwr.,Senegalia senegal(L.) Britton,Vachellia seyal(Del.) P.J.H. Hurter, andVachellia tortilis(Forssk.) Galasso & Banfi was conducted around Lake Langano and Menagesha Forest in Ethiopia to identify the associated seed predators and determine their impact on seed germination. Eight seed beetlesBruchidius albosparsus(Fåhraeus, 1839),B. aurivillii(Blanc, 1889),B. djemensisDecelle 1971,B. discoidalis(Fåhraeus, 1839),B. sinaitus(K. Daniel, 1907),B. silaceus(Fåhraeus, 1839),B. sp 411,B. simulans(Anton and Delobel, 2003), and one unidentified species of Cerambycidae were found associated with seeds of theseAcaciaspecies. These predators damaged less than 9% of seeds of these species, which exhibited lower germination. This study provides unrecorded lists of predispersal seed predators associated with seeds ofVachelliaandSenegaliaspecies in Ethiopia, and some associations are new. There is need to assess the distribution, abundance and effects of predispersal seed predators on otherVachellia, as well as other tree species.
Perception of Emotional Expressions in Adults
Authors: Yi Chit Yuen , Murry Matthew W. E. , Gentzler Amy L.
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Past research suggests that transient mood influences the perception of facial expressions of emotion, but relatively little is known about how trait-level emotionality (i.e., temperament) may influence emotion perception or interact with mood in this process. Consequently, we extended earlier work by examining how temperamental dimensions of negative emotionality and extraversion were associated with the perception accuracy and perceived intensity of three basic emotions and how the trait-level temperamental effect interacted with state-level self-reported mood in a sample of 88 adults (27 men, 18–51 years of age). The results indicated that higher levels of negative mood were associated with higher perception accuracy of angry and sad facial expressions, and higher levels of perceived intensity of anger. For perceived intensity of sadness, negative mood was associated with lower levels of perceived intensity, whereas negative emotionality was associated with higher levels of perceived intensity of sadness. Overall, our findings added to the limited literature on adult temperament and emotion perception.
Rank-Order Consistency and Profile Stability of Self- and Informant-Reports of Personal Values in Comparison to Personality Traits
Authors: Dobewall Henrik , Aavik Toivo
Published: March 2016

Abstract. This study compares the three-year rank-order consistency of informant-reports of values with stability estimates of self-rated values as meta-analytically reviewed and within the same sample. Whether the hierarchy of values attributed to an individual is as stable as in target’s self-reports was assessed with profile correlations. Self- and informant-reports of personality traits were available for direct comparison. Results indicated that informant-reports of values were not less stable across time than self-rated values or than other-ratings of traits. This was true for the relative position of a person within a sample as well as the relative ordering of these measures within the same individuals. The observed longitudinal stability of informant-reports of values implies that they can serve as a reliable source of information. Moreover, the temporal stability of value/trait profiles was found to predict subjective well-being.
Personality of Clown Doctors
Authors: Dionigi Alberto
Published: March 2016

Abstract. In recent years, both professional and volunteer clowns have become familiar in health settings. The clown represents a peculiar humorist’s character, strictly associated with the performer’s own personality. In this study, the Big Five personality traits (BFI) of 155 Italian clown doctors (130 volunteers and 25 professionals) were compared to published data for the normal population. This study highlighted specific differences between clown doctors and the general population: Clown doctors showed higher agreeableness, conscientiousness, openness, and extraversion, as well as lower neuroticism compared to other people. Moreover, specific differences emerged comparing volunteers and professionals: Professional clowns showed significantly lower in agreeableness compared to their unpaid colleagues. The results are also discussed with reference to previous studies conducted on groups of humorists. Clowns’ personalities showed some peculiarities that can help to explain the facility for their performances in the health setting and that are different than those of other groups of humorists.
Faster-Merging Snow Crystals Speed Greenland Ice Sheet Melting
Authors: Bloudoff-Indelicato Mollie
Published: March 2016

Satellite data and modeling reveal a trend toward coarser-grained, more-light-absorbent snow.
Dual regulatory switch through interactions of Tcf7l2/Tcf4 with stage-specific partners propels oligodendroglial maturation
Authors: Zhao Chuntao , Deng Yaqi , Liu Lei , Yu Kun , Zhang Liguo , Wang Haibo , He Xuelian , Wang Jincheng , Lu Changqing , Wu Laiman N , Weng Qinjie , Mao Meng , Li Jianrong , van Es Johan H , Xin Mei , Parry Lee , Goldman Steven A , Clevers Hans , Lu Q. Richard
Published: March 2016

Constitutive activation of Wnt/β-catenin inhibits oligodendrocyte myelination. Tcf7l2/Tcf4, a β-catenin transcriptional partner, is required for oligodendrocyte differentiation. How Tcf7l2 modifies β-catenin signalling and controls myelination remains elusive. Here we define a stage-specific Tcf7l2-regulated transcriptional circuitry in initiating and sustaining oligodendrocyte differentiation. Multistage genome occupancy analyses reveal that Tcf7l2 serially cooperates with distinct co-regulators to control oligodendrocyte lineage progression. At the differentiation onset, Tcf7l2 interacts with a transcriptional co-repressor Kaiso/Zbtb33 to block β-catenin signalling. During oligodendrocyte maturation, Tcf7l2 recruits and cooperates with Sox10 to promote myelination. In that context, Tcf7l2 directly activates cholesterol biosynthesis genes and cholesterol supplementation partially rescues oligodendrocyte differentiation defects in Tcf712 mutants. Together, we identify stage-specific co-regulators Kaiso and Sox10 that sequentially interact with Tcf7l2 to coordinate the switch at the transitions of differentiation initiation and maturation during oligodendrocyte development, and point to a previously unrecognized role of Tcf7l2 in control of cholesterol biosynthesis for CNS myelinogenesis.
The Gq signalling pathway inhibits brown and beige adipose tissue
Authors: Klepac Katarina , Kilić Ana , Gnad Thorsten , Brown Loren M. , Herrmann Beate , Wilderman Andrea , Balkow Aileen , Glöde Anja , Simon Katharina , Lidell Martin E. , Betz Matthias J. , Enerbäck Sven , Wess Jürgen , Freichel Marc , Blüher Matthias , König Gabi , Kostenis Evi , Insel Paul A. , Pfeifer Alexander
Published: March 2016

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) dissipates nutritional energy as heat via the uncoupling protein-1 (UCP1) and BAT activity correlates with leanness in human adults. Here we profile G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in brown adipocytes to identify druggable regulators of BAT. Twenty-one per cent of the GPCRs link to the Gq family, and inhibition of Gq signalling enhances differentiation of human and murine brown adipocytes. In contrast, activation of Gq signalling abrogates brown adipogenesis. We further identify the endothelin/Ednra pathway as an autocrine activator of Gq signalling in brown adipocytes. Expression of a constitutively active Gq protein in mice reduces UCP1 expression in BAT, whole-body energy expenditure and the number of brown-like/beige cells in white adipose tissue (WAT). Furthermore, expression of Gq in human WAT inversely correlates with UCP1 expression. Thus, our data indicate that Gq signalling regulates brown/beige adipocytes and inhibition of Gq signalling may be a novel therapeutic approach to combat obesity.
Editing of mouse and human immunoglobulin genes by CRISPR-Cas9 system
Authors: Cheong Taek-Chin , Compagno Mara , Chiarle Roberto
Published: March 2016

Applications of the CRISPR-Cas9 system to edit the genome have widely expanded to include DNA gene knock-out, deletions, chromosomal rearrangements, RNA editing and genome-wide screenings. Here we show the application of CRISPR-Cas9 technology to edit the mouse and human immunoglobulin (Ig) genes. By delivering Cas9 and guide-RNA (gRNA) with retro- or lenti-virus to IgM+ mouse B cells and hybridomas, we induce class-switch recombination (CSR) of the IgH chain to the desired subclass. Similarly, we induce CSR in all human B cell lines tested with high efficiency to targeted IgH subclass. Finally, we engineer mouse hybridomas to secrete Fab′ fragments instead of the whole Ig. Our results indicate that Ig genes in mouse and human cells can be edited to obtain any desired IgH switching helpful to study the biology of normal and lymphoma B cells. We also propose applications that could transform the technology of antibody production.
FAM21 directs SNX27–retromer cargoes to the plasma membrane by preventing transport to the Golgi apparatus
Authors: Lee Seongju , Chang Jaerak , Blackstone Craig
Published: March 2016

The endosomal network maintains cellular homeostasis by sorting, recycling and degrading endocytosed cargoes. Retromer organizes the endosomal sorting pathway in conjunction with various sorting nexin (SNX) proteins. The SNX27–retromer complex has recently been identified as a major endosomal hub that regulates endosome-to-plasma membrane recycling by preventing lysosomal entry of cargoes. Here, we show that SNX27 directly interacts with FAM21, which also binds retromer, within the Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome protein and SCAR homologue (WASH) complex. This interaction is required for the precise localization of SNX27 at an endosomal subdomain as well as for recycling of SNX27-retromer cargoes. Furthermore, FAM21 prevents cargo transport to the Golgi apparatus by controlling levels of phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate, which facilitates cargo dissociation at the Golgi. Together, our results demonstrate that the SNX27–retromer–WASH complex directs cargoes to the plasma membrane by blocking their transport to lysosomes and the Golgi.
Open-gate mutants of the mammalian proteasome show enhanced ubiquitin-conjugate degradation
Authors: Choi Won Hoon , de Poot Stefanie A. H. , Lee Jung Hoon , Kim Ji Hyeon , Han Dong Hoon , Kim Yun Kyung , Finley Daniel , Lee Min Jae
Published: March 2016

When in the closed form, the substrate translocation channel of the proteasome core particle (CP) is blocked by the convergent N termini of α-subunits. To probe the role of channel gating in mammalian proteasomes, we deleted the N-terminal tail of α3; the resulting α3ΔN proteasomes are intact but hyperactive in the hydrolysis of fluorogenic peptide substrates and the degradation of polyubiquitinated proteins. Cells expressing the hyperactive proteasomes show markedly elevated degradation of many established proteasome substrates and resistance to oxidative stress. Multiplexed quantitative proteomics revealed ∼200 proteins with reduced levels in the mutant cells. Potentially toxic proteins such as tau exhibit reduced accumulation and aggregate formation. These data demonstrate that the CP gate is a key negative regulator of proteasome function in mammals, and that opening the CP gate may be an effective strategy to increase proteasome activity and reduce levels of toxic proteins in cells.
Tracking the shape-dependent sintering of platinum–rhodium model catalysts under operando conditions
Authors: Hejral Uta , Müller Patrick , Balmes Olivier , Pontoni Diego , Stierle Andreas
Published: March 2016

Nanoparticle sintering during catalytic reactions is a major cause for catalyst deactivation. Understanding its atomic-scale processes and finding strategies to reduce it is of paramount scientific and economic interest. Here, we report on the composition-dependent three-dimensional restructuring of epitaxial platinum–rhodium alloy nanoparticles on alumina during carbon monoxide oxidation at 550 K and near-atmospheric pressures employing in situ high-energy grazing incidence x-ray diffraction, online mass spectrometry and a combinatorial sample design. For platinum-rich particles our results disclose a dramatic reaction-induced height increase, accompanied by a corresponding reduction of the total particle surface coverage. We find this restructuring to be progressively reduced for particles with increasing rhodium composition. We explain our observations by a carbon monoxide oxidation promoted non-classical Ostwald ripening process during which smaller particles are destabilized by the heat of reaction. Its driving force lies in the initial particle shape which features for platinum-rich particles a kinetically stabilized, low aspect ratio.
SCARB2 variants and glucocerebrosidase activity in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Alcalay Roy N , Levy Oren A , Wolf Pavlina , Oliva Petra , Zhang Xiaokui Kate , Waters Cheryl H , Fahn Stanley , Kang Un Jung , Liong Christopher , Ford Blair , Mazzoni Pietro , Kuo Sheng , Johnson Amelie , Xiong Lan , Rouleau Guy A , Chung Wendy K , Marder Karen S , Gan-Or Ziv
Published: March 2016

Mutations in glucocerebrosidase (GBA) are a common risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD). The scavenger receptor class B member 2 (SCARB2) gene encodes a receptor responsible for the transport of glucocerebrosidase (GCase) to the lysosome. Two common SNPs in linkage disequilibrium with SCARB2, rs6812193 and rs6825004, have been associated with PD and Lewy Body Disease in genome-wide association studies. Whether these SNPs are associated with altered glucocerebrosidase enzymatic activity is unknown. Our objective was to determine whether SCARB2 SNPs are associated with PD and with reduced GCase activity. The GBA gene was fully sequenced, and the LRRK2 G2019S and SCARB2 rs6812193 and rs6825004 SNPs were genotyped in 548 PD patients and 272 controls. GCase activity in dried blood spots was measured by tandem mass spectrometry. We tested the association between SCARB2 genotypes and PD risk in regression models adjusted for gender, age, and LRRK2 G2019S and GBA mutation status. We compared GCase activity between participants with different genotypes at rs6812193 and rs6825004. Genotype at rs6812193 was associated with PD status. PD cases were less likely to carry the T allele than the C allele (OR=0.71; P=0.004), but GCase enzymatic activity was similar across rs6812193 genotypes (C/C: 11.88 μmol/l/h; C/T: 11.80 μmol/l/h; T/T: 12.02 μmol/l/h; P=0.867). Genotype at rs6825004 was not associated with either PD status or GCase activity. In conclusion, our results support an association between SCARB2 genotype at rs6812193 and PD, but suggest that the increased risk is not mediated by GCase activity.
Dependence of fluorescent protein brightness on protein concentration in solution and enhancement of it
Authors: Morikawa Takamitsu J. , Fujita Hideaki , Kitamura Akira , Horio Takashi , Yamamoto Johtaro , Kinjo Masataka , Sasaki Akira , Machiyama Hiroaki , Yoshizawa Keiko , Ichimura Taro , Imada Katsumi , Nagai Takeharu , Watanabe Tomonobu M.
Published: March 2016

Fluorescent proteins have been widely used in biology because of their compatibility and varied applications in living specimens. Fluorescent proteins are often undesirably sensitive to intracellular conditions such as pH and ion concentration, generating considerable issues at times. However, harnessing these intrinsic sensitivities can help develop functional probes. In this study, we found that the fluorescence of yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) depends on the protein concentration in the solution and that this dependence can be enhanced by adding a glycine residue in to the YFP; we applied this finding to construct an intracellular protein-crowding sensor. A Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) pair, involving a cyan fluorescent protein (CFP) insensitive to protein concentration and a glycine-inserted YFP, works as a genetically encoded probe to evaluate intracellular crowding. By measuring the fluorescence of the present FRET probe, we were able to detect dynamic changes in protein crowding in living cells.
Epstein Barr Virus and Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis peptides are recognized in sera and cerebrospinal fluid of MS patients
Authors: Mameli Giuseppe , Cocco Eleonora , Frau Jessica , Marrosu Maria Giovanna , Sechi Leonardo Antonio
Published: March 2016

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) epitopes elicit a consistent humoral response in serum of multiple sclerosis patients, but the cross reactivity against the homologous myelin basic protein (MBP) and human interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) has not been searched within the Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF). We evaluated in sera and CSF of patients with MS and with other neurological diseases (OND) the humoral response against EBV/MAP peptides and the IRF5/MBP. Our data showed that EBV and MAP peptides are able to induce a specific humoral immune response in MS patients compared to OND controls both in serum and in CSF. An intrathecal specific synthesis of IgG against MBP and their EBV and MAP homologous as indicated by the antibody index was observed in MS patients. The humoral response against EBV, MAP, MBP and IRF5 was significantly higher in MS patients compared to OND both in serum and in CSF. The higher presence of antibodies against MBP and their MAP and EBV homologous in CSF during relapses suggests a possible role of the pathogens in enhancing inflammation.