bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the impact of different approaches for handling continuous predictors on the performance of a prognostic model
Authors: Collins Gary S. , Ogundimu Emmanuel O. , Cook Jonathan A. , Manach Yannick Le , Altman Douglas G.
Published: May 2016

Continuous predictors are routinely encountered when developing a prognostic model. Investigators, who are often non‐statisticians, must decide how to handle continuous predictors in their models. Categorising continuous measurements into two or more categories has been widely discredited, yet is still frequently done because of its simplicity, investigator ignorance of the potential impact and of suitable alternatives, or to facilitate model uptake. We examine three broad approaches for handling continuous predictors on the performance of a prognostic model, including various methods of categorising predictors, modelling a linear relationship between the predictor and outcome and modelling a nonlinear relationship using fractional polynomials or restricted cubic splines. We compare the performance (measured by the c‐index, calibration and net benefit) of prognostic models built using each approach, evaluating them using separate data from that used to build them. We show that categorising continuous predictors produces models with poor predictive performance and poor clinical usefulness. Categorising continuous predictors is unnecessary, biologically implausible and inefficient and should not be used in prognostic model development. © 2016 The Authors. Statistics in Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Analytical investigation on shape configuration of CFRP strips on lateral loading capacity of strengthened RC shear wall
Authors: Delnavaz Ali , Hamidnia Mohammad
Published: May 2016

In the past few years, the use of carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) has increased, because of their high strength, in concrete elements such as shear walls. In this study, the behaviour of a shear wall strengthened with different layout configurations of CFRP under lateral loading was investigated. For this purpose, a model is first verified in laboratory work, then in the next step the models were analysed by increasing the number of fibre layers and the effect of fibre layers on shear wall capacity was studied. Sliding between fibres and concrete was neglected. Also the effect of increasing the concrete strength of a reinforced concrete (RC) wall on CFRP strengthening was studied. In all models, comparisons were made between the results of CFRP configurations in increasing lateral strength and also ductility. Finally, by comparing the results, the best fibre configuration was determined based on the maximum load capacity.
2D‐DOA estimation performance using split vertical linear and circular arrays
Authors: Aouina Karima , Benazzouz Djamel
Published: May 2016

This paper presents a new approach to reduce the computational complexity in two‐dimensional (2D) matrix pencil (MP) method for direction of arrival (DOA) estimation of plane wave signals using a combination of vertical uniform linear array (VULA) and uniform circular array (UCA). By applying phase mode excitation based beamforming to the UCA, we can apply the matrix pencil (MP) method to the beamspace data using only a single snapshot. The technique is based on the split array, which is composed of two perpendicular arrays. The vertical uniform linear array used to determine the elevation DOA components is located perpendicularly at the center of the uniform circular array in the horizontal plane used to calculate the azimuth angles. Unlike common planar and circular arrays, this antenna array with its particular geometry requires no pair‐matching between the azimuth and the elevation angle estimation and can also remove the drawbacks of estimation failure problems. Using this particular geometry for the 2D MP method leads to an efficient computational methodology for real‐time implementation on a digital signal processor. The obtained simulation results of the MP method applied to both uncorrelated and correlated narrow‐band sources in the presence of white noise show good performance estimation. © 2016 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Performance of the IOTA ADNEX model in preoperative discrimination of adnexal masses in a gynecological oncology center
Authors: Araujo K. G. , Jales R. M. , Pereira P. N. , Yoshida A. , de Angelo Andrade L. , Sarian L. O. , Derchain S.
Published: May 2016

Objective

To evaluate the performance of the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA) ADNEX model in the preoperative discrimination between benign ovarian (including tubal and para‐ovarian) tumors, borderline ovarian tumors (BOT), Stage I ovarian cancer (OC), Stage II–IV OC and ovarian metastasis in a gynecological oncology center in Brazil.

Methods

This was a diagnostic accuracy study including 131 women with an adnexal mass invited to participate between February 2014 and November 2015. Before surgery, pelvic ultrasound examination was performed and serum levels of tumor marker CA 125 were measured in all women. Adnexal masses were classified according to the IOTA ADNEX model. Histopathological diagnosis was the gold standard. Receiver–operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the model to classify tumors into different histological types.

Results

Of 131 women, 63 (48.1%) had a benign ovarian tumor, 16 (12.2%) had a BOT, 17 (13.0%) had Stage I OC, 24 (18.3%) had Stage II–IV OC and 11 (8.4%) had ovarian metastasis. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.92 (95% CI, 0.88–0.97) for the basic discrimination between benign vs malignant tumors using the IOTA ADNEX model. Performance was high for the discrimination between benign vs Stage II–IV OC, BOT vs Stage II–IV OC and Stage I OC vs Stage II–IV OC, with AUCs of 0.99, 0.97 and 0.94, respectively. Performance was poor for the differentiation between BOT vs Stage I OC and between Stage I OC vs ovarian metastasis with AUCs of 0.64.

Conclusion

The majority of adnexal masses in our study were classified correctly using the IOTA ADNEX model. On the basis of our findings, we would expect the model to aid in the management of women with an adnexal mass presenting to a gynecological oncology center. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Power considerations for λ inflation factor in meta-analyses of genome-wide association studies
Authors: GEORGIOPOULOS GEORGIOS , EVANGELOU EVANGELOS
Published: May 2016

The genomic control (GC) approach is extensively used to effectively control false positive signals due to population stratification in genome-wide association studies (GWAS). However, GC affects the statistical power of GWAS. The loss of power depends on the magnitude of the inflation factor (λ) that is used for GC. We simulated meta-analyses of different GWAS. Minor allele frequency (MAF) ranged from 0·001 to 0·5 and λ was sampled from two scenarios: (i) random scenario (empirically-derived distribution of real λ values) and (ii) selected scenario from simulation parameter modification. Adjustment for λ was considered under single correction (within study corrected standard errors) and double correction (additional λ corrected summary estimate). MAF was a pivotal determinant of observed power. In random λ scenario, double correction induced a symmetric power reduction in comparison to single correction. For MAF <5%, GC significantly reduced power for genetic risks ranging from 1·2 to 1·4 (n = 10–20). Rising MAF attenuated the correction effect of λ adjustment. Moderate λ approach yielded more conservative results for population stratification adjustment, especially for MAF <5%. Large λ approach yielded an approximate two fold decrease in power when compared to moderate λ approach and almost four fold when the original random λ scenario was considered. Meta-analysis power can be adequate to detect significant variants even for double GC correction when effect size exceeds >1·2 and MAF >5%. Our results provide a quick but detailed index for power considerations of future meta-analyses of GWAS that enables a more flexible design from early steps based on the number of studies accumulated in different groups and the λ values observed in the single studies.
“The Dark Unaccompanied Moment”: Louise Erdrich's The Antelope Wife and the Problem of the Origin
Authors: MILLARD KENNETH
Published: May 2016

This paper is a critical examination of Louise Erdrich's novel The Antelope Wife, one that has a particular focus in conceptualizations of origins. That is to say, it is an analysis of the novel that scrutinizes the various ways in which “origins” are a vitally important aspect, both of the narrative and of the conceptual paradigms that might be used to interpret it. The Antelope Wife thus problematizes the ways that historical and epistemological foundations are predicated on certain crucial moments of origin, which are then used to legitimate particular interpretations. A concept of a definitive origin is also used to underwrite ideas about cultural authenticity which are then placed in the service of social and political perspectives, with wide-ranging consequences. Such origins concern the beginning of narrative, the politics of ethnicity, and the original innocence of a fall from grace. In each case, the novel is notable for its subtle examination of where such concepts begin, and of the political implications of the very concept of beginnings.
On the degrees of polynomial divisors over finite fields
Authors: WEINGARTNER ANDREAS
Published: May 2016

We show that the proportion of polynomials of degree n over the finite field with q elements, which have a divisor of every degree below n, is given by cqn−1 + O(n−2). More generally, we give an asymptotic formula for the proportion of polynomials, whose set of degrees of divisors has no gaps of size greater than m. To that end, we first derive an improved estimate for the proportion of polynomials of degree n, all of whose non-constant divisors have degree greater than m. In the limit as q → ∞, these results coincide with corresponding estimates related to the cycle structure of permutations.
Genetic structure of Patagonian toothfish populations from otolith DNA
Authors: Toomey Lola , Welsford Dirk , Appleyard Sharon A. , Polanowski Andrea , Faux Cassandra , Deagle Bruce E. , Belchier Mark , Marthick James , Jarman Simon
Published: May 2016

The Patagonian toothfish,Dissostichus eleginoides, is a valuable fishery species and has a discontinuous distribution across the Southern Ocean. Identification of the genetic stock structure of toothfish would allow evaluation of the suitability of the spatial scale at which fisheries management operates. Genetic subdivision seems likely given the species distribution. Population genetics studies of this species have been performed; however, they have been limited by sample size, spatial coverage and/or the type of markers investigated. As a potential solution, we developed methods for extracting toothfish DNA from otoliths that are available in large numbers from collections held at several research institutes. Genetic differentiation between the three oceanic sectors was investigated. Four mitochondrial and four nuclear markers with multiple single nucleotide polymorphisms were sequenced by high throughput sequencing for samples from six locations. Genetic differentiation was found between three sectors with nuclear markers. However, only the Pacific sector was differentiated from other sectors with mitochondrial markers. This study demonstrates the usefulness of otolith DNA as a means of increasing sample sizes for population genetics research of fish. Additionally, the combination of nuclear and mitochondrial markers may allow insight into how the observed differences in movements between male and female toothfish impact population structure.
Alterations in antioxidant and oxidant status of children after on-pump surgery for cyanotic and acyanotic congenital heart diseases
Authors: Altin Firat H. , Yildirim Hayriye A. , Tanidir Ibrahim C. , Yildiz Okan , Kahraman Meliha Z. , Ozturk Erkut , Celebi Sinem B. , Kyaruzi Mugisha , Bakir İhsan
Published: May 2016

Objective

Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between reactive oxidative species and antioxidants. In this case-controlled, prospective, observational study, we investigated the total oxidant status, total antioxidant status, oxidative stress index, and albumin and C-reactive protein levels of children with cyanotic and acyanotic congenital heart diseases who had undergone on-pump cardiac surgery.

Method

The study groups consisted of 60 patients with congenital heart disease, who were operated under cardiopulmonary bypass, and a control group of 30 healthy individuals. The patients were classified into two groups. Among them, one was a patient group that consisted of 30 patients with acyanotic congenital heart disease and the other group consisted of 30 patients with cyanotic congenital heart disease. In the patient groups, blood samples were collected before surgery and at one and 24 hours following surgery. In control groups, blood samples were collected once during hospital admission.

Results

No statistically significant differences were found between the groups in terms of baseline total oxidant status, total antioxidant status, and oxidative stress index values. Regarding the postoperative first-hour and 24-hour total oxidant status and total antioxidant status levels as well as oxidative stress index values, there were no significant differences between the groups, except for an increase in total antioxidant status levels (p=0.002) 24 hours after surgery in cyanotic patients.

Conclusion

There was no difference between oxidative stress status of cyanotic and acyanotic congenital heart disease patients and healthy individuals. Oxidative stress status of cyanotic and acyanotic patients does not change after cardiac surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass.
Novel chiral Schiff base/Ti(iv) catalysts for the catalytic asymmetric epoxidation of N-alkenyl sulfonamides
Authors: Ji Nan , Yuan Jiani , Liu Miaoxi , Lan Ting , He Wei
Published: May 2016

A novel highly enantioselective Schiff base/Ti(iv) catalyst for the catalytic asymmetric epoxidation of a series of N-alkenyl sulfonamides under mild conditions was described.
Final rotational state distributions from NO(vi = 11) in collisions with Au(111): the magnitude of vibrational energy transfer depends on orientation in molecule–surface collisions
Authors: Krüger Bastian C. , Bartels Nils , Wodtke Alec M. , Schäfer Tim
Published: May 2016

Final rotational state distributions provide valuable information about molecule surface collisions: the vibrational energy transfer of NO molecules on a Au(111) surfaces depend on the initial orientation.
Regulating the anticancer properties of organometallic dendrimers using pyridylferrocene entities: synthesis, cytotoxicity and DNA binding studies
Authors: Govender Preshendren , Riedel Tina , Dyson Paul J. , Smith Gregory S.
Published: May 2016

Eight new heterometallic ferrocenyl-derived metal–arene metallodendrimers have been prepared and evaluated for anti-tumor activity.
Production of 1,3-propanediol from glycerol via fermentation by Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Tabah Betina , Varvak Alexander , Pulidindi Indra Neel , Foran Elizabeth , Banin Ehud , Gedanken Aharon
Published: May 2016

Baker's yeast,Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is reported as possessing the ability to convert glycerol to 1,3-propanediol. Various fermentation conditions were tested at different temperatures. Under anaerobic fermentation at 25 °C, 93.6 wt% glycerol was consumed, yielding 42.3 wt% 1,3-propanediol.
Solution combustion synthesis and physico-chemical properties of ultrafine CeO2 nanoparticles and their photocatalytic activity
Authors: Bakkiyaraj R. , Bharath G. , Hasini Ramsait K. , Abdel-Wahab Ahmed , Alsharaeh Edreese H. , Chen Shen-Ming , Balakrishnan M.
Published: May 2016

Solution combustion method was adopted for the preparation of ultrafine cerium oxide nanoparticles, which act as excellent photocatalysts for the degradation of dye from aqueous solution.
Multiple shape memory polymers for self-deployable device
Authors: Zhuo Shuyun , Zhang Gongzheng , Feng Xianqi , Jiang Haoyang , Shi Jinli , Liu Huanqing , Li Huanjun
Published: May 2016

Three-segments MH copolymers with well-separated glass transition temperatures can subsequently change their shapes in a pre-defined way.
Catalytic oxidation of ethyl acetate and toluene over Cu–Ce–Zr supported ZSM-5/TiO2 catalysts
Authors: Baojuan Dou , Shumin Li , Deliang Liu , Ruozhu Zhao , Jingge Liu , Qinglan Hao , Feng Bin
Published: May 2016

Schematic of VOCs oxidation mechanism over the CCZ/Z (A) and CCZ/T (B) catalysts.
Preparation of a stable superhydrophobic boat for efficient separation and removal of oil from water
Authors: Tan Cui , Li Qing , Li Yanmei , Zhang Chuqi , Xu Lan
Published: May 2016

In this work, a Fe2O3@fabric composite was preparedviaa process combining Fenton's and Schiff base reactions.
A breathing MOF: direct crystallographic observation of the site-selective C(sp3)–H functionalization
Authors: Shi Dongying , Zeng Le , Ming Zheng , He Cheng , Meng Changgong , Duan Chunying
Published: May 2016

A 3D breathing MOF was synthesized for light-driven acceleration of the site-selective C(sp3)–H activation. The 1D channels of the assembled MOF can encapsulate reaction substrates via a breathing process that were observed by single-crystal X-ray analyses.
Co3O4/ZnO nanoheterostructure derived from core–shell ZIF-8@ZIF-67 for supercapacitors
Authors: Xu Jiao , Liu Shucheng , Liu Yi
Published: May 2016

Co3O4/ZnO heteronanostructures were prepared through the thermal conversion of core–shell ZIF-8@ZIF-67, exhibiting a high specific capacitance and improved rate capability.
A ferroelectric memristor based on the migration of oxygen vacancies
Authors: Hou Pengfei , Wang Jinbin , Zhong Xiangli , Wu Yuexian
Published: May 2016

Ferroelectric resistive switching memory is a non-destructive and easy to achieve multilevel storage, which is a breakthrough for further improving the density in the random access memory.
Competing and simultaneous click reactions at the interface and in solution
Authors: Yiamsawas Doungporn , Wagner Manfred , Baier Grit , Landfester Katharina , Wurm Frederik R.
Published: May 2016

Two competing click reactions are studied in solution and at the interface of nanodroplets. By adjusting the reaction kinetics, both polyaddition (thiol–maleimide) and polycondensation (disulfide exchange) proceed simultaneously.
Kinetics of nanocrystal synthesis in a microfluidic reactor: theory and experiment
Authors: Maceiczyk Richard M. , Bezinge Leonard , deMello Andrew J.
Published: May 2016

A two-stage microreactor enables the quantitative evaluation of a kinetic model of nanocrystal nucleation and growth.
Combining firefly algorithm and Bayesian classifier: new direction for automatic multilabel image annotation
Authors: Darwish Saad M.
Published: May 2016

As digital images are increasing exponentially; it is very attractive to develop more effective machine learning frameworks for automatic image annotation. In order to address the most prominent issues (huge inter‐concept visual similarity and huge intra‐concept visual diversity) more effectively, an inter‐related non‐parametric Bayesian classifier training framework to support multi‐label image annotation is developed. For this purpose, an image is viewed as a bag, and its instances are the over‐segmented regions within it found automatically with an adopted Otsu's method segmentation algorithm. Here firefly algorithm (FA) is utilised to enhance Otsu's method in the direction of finding optimal multilevel thresholds using the maximum variance intra‐clusters. FA has high convergence speed and less computation rate as compared with some evolutionary algorithms. By generating blobs, the extracted features for segmented regions, the concepts which are learned by the classifier tend to relate textually to the words which occur most often in the data and visually to the easiest to recognise segments. This allowing the opportunity to assign a word to each object (localised labelling). Extensive experiments on Corel benchmark image datasets will validate the effectiveness of the proposed solution to multi‐label image annotation and label ranking problem.
Integrated common‐mode inductor design for parallel interleaved converters
Authors: Hedayati Mohammad Hassan , John Vinod
Published: May 2016

Paralleling power converters can increase the power rating and reliability of the overall system. Interleaving the carrier in parallel converters helps in reduction of output current distortion, and in reduction of electromagnetic interference noise. This study presents a common‐mode inductor design for parallel interleaved converters, which integrates the inter‐phase and boost inductors together in a novel structure. It is shown that the proposed magnetic structure accommodates a wider range of desirable electromagnetic parameters. Step‐by‐step design procedure of the proposed integrated common‐mode inductor (ICMI) is presented. The proposed ICMI design results in fewer components, reduces the size and the cost of overall system. The proposed ICMI is compared with a design available in literature using an example. Existing design procedure imposes constraints on the core geometry that are not suitable for high‐power designs. The proposed design makes use of standard C cores that improves manufacturability. Experimental results from a 7.5 kVA parallel single‐phase power converter show the effectiveness of the proposed ICMI.
Toroidal angular momentum transport with non-axisymmetric magnetic fields
Authors: Seol J. , Park B. H.
Published: May 2016

In this study, we calculate the radial transport of the toroidal angular momentum in the presence of non-axisymmetric magnetic fields. It is shown that the radial transport of the toroidal angular momentum, R2∇ζ·V, is proportional to the first order of gyro-radius. This implies that the neoclassical toroidal viscosity caused by asymmetric magnetic fields can change the toroidal rotation significantly.
Broadly neutralizing epitopes in the
Plasmodium vivax
vaccine candidate Duffy Binding Protein
Authors: Chen Edwin , Salinas Nichole D. , Huang Yining , Ntumngia Francis , Plasencia Manolo D. , Gross Michael L. , Adams John H. , Tolia Niraj Harish
Published: May 2016

Significance

Plasmodium vivax
is a causative agent of malaria that results in high morbidity and mortality.
P. vivax
Duffy Binding Protein (PvDBP) is a leading vaccine candidate for
P. vivax
; however, PvDBP is highly variable, which prevents a strain transcending immune response, complicating vaccine design. Here we report the first, to our knowledge, broadly neutralizing antibody epitopes within PvDBP, and expand the known repertoire of neutralizing epitopes for this protein. The identification of broadly conserved inhibitory epitopes provides critical new motifs that should be retained in the next generation of
P. vivax
malaria vaccines and serve as a basis for rational structure-based vaccine design.
Discovering Causally Complex Essences
Authors: Bronstein David
Published: May 2016

This chapter closely examines Aristotle’s account of inquiry in Posterior Analytics 2.8. It focuses on his account of how we discover by demonstration the causally complex essences of demonstrable attributes (such as eclipse and thunder). This discovery occurs at Stage 4 (of 5) in the Socratic Picture of the order of inquiry. Aristotle’s account is examined in light of the puzzles about demonstration and definition raised in Posterior Analytics 2.3–7. The chapter argues that Aristotle describes two routes to knowledge of causally complex essences. Both routes begin with the grasp of a preliminary account, and both solve the instance of Meno’s Paradox that arises from Posterior Analytics 2.2.
Subject-Kinds and their Existence
Authors: Bronstein David
Published: May 2016

This chapter focuses on Stage 1 in the Socratic Picture of the order of inquiry, when we seek whether a subject-kind (such as triangle or animal) exists. Distinctions are made between primary and subordinate subject-kinds on the one hand and between subject-kinds in general and their demonstrable attributes on the other. The chapter also discusses a number of passages in the Posterior Analytics in which, it is argued, Aristotle describes how students of a science learn by demonstration. The chapter ends with a speculative account of how we discover the existence of subject-kinds (subordinate (i.e., species) and primary (i.e., genera)).
Metallic Compounds
Authors: Ladd Mark
Published: May 2016

Chapter 5 is devoted to the properties of the metallic bond and semiconductors. The Drude–Lorentz free-electron model is discussed together with its applications. The Hall effect demonstrates the need for a refinement of the theory, which leads into a study first of the wave-mechanical free-electron theory, density of states and the Fermi–Dirac distribution. Then, it is followed by the band theory of metals, semiconductors and superconductors. Einstein and Debye models for heat capacity are compared. Fuel cells, batteries and solar cells are studied and their properties compared. The physical and structural characteristics of the metallic bond are discussed. Alloy systems are treated, particularly the Ag–Cd, Cu–Au and Cu–Zn systems. Their characteristics are discussed in terms of the Hume-Rothery rules and their explanation in band theory.
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
Authors: Ladd Mark
Published: May 2016

Nanoscience and nanotechnology are introduced and compared. The physics of small systems introduces quantum dots and their applications. Carbon is discussed in terms of carbon black, graphite and graphene, and applications of graphene in chemical sensing and other fields are described. Carbon nanotubes and nanowires are discussed and illustrated. The topics in this chapter are under extensive current investigations and a number of recent developments are introduced. Graphite intercalation compounds, their structure and properties are treated, and the magnetic properties of chemical systems described in relation to nanosize materials. Nanopolymers and the fabrication of nanomaterials are outlined.
Poverty in Ethiopia, 2000–11
Authors: Stifel David , Woldehanna Tassew
Published: May 2016

Since the beginning of the twenty-first century, the Ethiopian economy has experienced strong economic growth and structural improvements. Rapid infrastructure growth, increased agricultural production and commercialization, better-functioning food markets, and a strong social safety net programme are all part of the changing economic landscape that is paying dividends in terms of poverty reduction. Yet measuring these dividends in Ethiopia is complicated by conceptual and practical data-related issues. This is not surprising, given the complexity of measuring poverty in a manner that is consistent over time and space, yet is also sensitive to local conditions. In this chapter a utility-consistent approach to calculating poverty lines is used to analyse poverty in Ethiopia. Poverty reduction has been steady but uneven. Although data comparability issues warrant care in determining the degree to which monetary poverty fell, the broader body of evidence paints a picture of substantive welfare improvements.
Burkina Faso
Authors: Grimm Michael , Wetta Claude , Nikiema Aude
Published: May 2016

Burkina Faso has experienced significant aggregate growth over the past two decades, but the growth has not transformed into poverty reduction. Key obstacles preventing escape from poverty are high population growth, combined with the absence of major technological change in agriculture and any significant structural transformation of the urban economy. Continuously rising food prices and droughts maintain child malnutrition and mortality at high levels, threatening political and social stability. The growth had basically two sources: a massive migration of people from the rural agricultural sector to the urban informal sector, and agricultural production of food crops and cotton, both fuelled by a massive expansion of cultivable land. Dealing with Malthusian forces is the main challenge for Burkina Faso in the decade to come.
Assessing Progress in Welfare Improvements in Zambia
Authors: Masumbu Gibson , Mahrt Kristi
Published: May 2016

This chapter analyses poverty in Zambia during 1996–2010. Recent growth and consumption poverty trends are reviewed, with evaluation of the distribution and evolution of multidimensional household welfare. Recognizing the importance of non-monetary dimensions of poverty, the first-order dominance approach is employed to assess multidimensional welfare—an approach which allows multidimensional welfare comparisons across populations without imposing assumptions about the relative importance of each welfare dimension. The comparisons—five household-level binary indicators measuring welfare in water, sanitation, shelter, energy, and education form the basis of analysis—generate information about the relative welfare of the nine provinces and their performance over time. The welfare of households is also evaluated across rural agricultural strata and urban housing cost areas.
Incomes, Inequality, and Poverty in Kenya
Authors: Bigsten Arne , Manda Damiano Kulundu , Mwabu Germano , Wambugu Anthony
Published: May 2016

During the twentieth century there were dramatic changes in the structure of Kenya’s economy and in the sectorial allocation of labour. Kenya started out with almost the whole of its labour force in agriculture and related activities, but a century later more than half of the labour force is in formal or informal non-agricultural activities. The share of agriculture in gross domestic product has fallen from above three-quarters to about a quarter. This structural transformation has driven the changes in incomes, income distribution, and poverty. This chapter seeks to measure and explain changes in incomes, inequality, and poverty in Kenya. It starts from a very long-term perspective covering the twentieth century, then focuses on a more detailed analysis of the recent period for which data are available.
Politics and Writing
Authors: Pearson Roger
Published: May 2016

This chapter describes how Chateaubriand, the celebrated author of the Génie du christianisme, sought a central role in the affairs of the nation; how, following his break with Napoleon in 1804 and a period in opposition, he subsequently rose to prominence during the Restoration as a governnment minister and parliamentary lawgiver; and how in 1830, following the July Revolution and the installation of the Bourgeois Monarchy, he withdrew from active politics and became the living emblem of the Legitimist cause. In his Mémoires d’outre-tombe, in which this political career is extensively related, he constructs a retrospective self-portrait as the poète maudit, the unacknowledged legislator for whom literature had provided the surer platform from which to serve as lawgiver and moral guide to the nation and for whom poetry remained the most powerful expression of human spiritual longing.
1789 and After
Authors: Pearson Roger
Published: May 2016

This chapter summarizes the preceding account of the poet as lawgiver in post-revolutionary France under four headings: the poet as politician; the poet as champion of justice; the poet as moral and religious commentator; and the poet as officiant of uncertainty. Aspects of the public careers and literary works of Chateaubriand, Staël, Lamartine, Hugo, and Vigny are compared and contrasted under these headings and situated within a broader narrative in which the poet’s authority comes to be seen to derive no longer from God but from humanity itself, and in which the poet-lawgiver, forsaking direct political engagement, privileges poetry as an alternative and more effective legislation. Poetry ceases to be a tool of ideology and aspires to be a powerful independent instrument of moral progress, non-denominational religious feeling, and secular surmise about the meanings of life. The poet moves beyond melancholy and, anticipating Baudelaire, towards a positive poetics of conjecture.
Routines as Process
Authors: Feldman Martha S.
Published: May 2016

This chapter traces how scholarship over time has taken into consideration the process-oriented nature of routines. The tracing includes the behavioral theory of the firm, evolutionary economics, and routine dynamics. Elaborating and building on the routine dynamics perspective, the chapter suggests that further process orientation is possible through a deeper understanding of action as doings and sayings that display a spectrum of intentionality, control over the body, and social autonomy. Actions have three features that are particularly useful for a process orientation to routines: they are constitutive; they transcend dualisms; and they are relational. The theoretical, rhetorical, and methodological changes entailed in moving from one kind of process orientation to another are discussed.
Glu-370 in the Large Subunit Influences the Substrate Binding, Allosteric, and Heat Stability Properties of Potato ADP-glucose Pyrophosphorylase
Authors: Seferoglu Ayse B , Gul Seref , Dikbas Ugur M , Koper Kaan , Baris Ibrahim , Caliskan Mahmut , Cevahir Gul , Kavakli Ibrahim
Published: May 2016

ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGPase) is a key allosteric enzyme in plant starch biosynthesis. Plant AGPase is a heterotetrameric enzyme that consists of large (LS) and small subunits (SS), which are encoded by two different genes. In this study, we showed that the conversion of Glu to Gly at position 370 in the LS of AGPase alters the heterotetrameric stability along with the binding properties of substrate and effectors of the enzyme. Kinetic analyses revealed that the affinity of the LSE370GSSWT AGPase for glucose-1-phosphate is 3-fold less than for wild type (WT) AGPase. Additionally, the LSE370GSSWT AGPase requires 3-fold more 3-phosphogyceric acid to be activated. Finally, the LSE370GSSWTAGPase is less heat stable compared with the WT AGPase. Computational analysis of the mutant Gly-370 in the 3D modeled LS AGPase showed that this residue changes charge distribution of the surface and thus affect stability of the LS AGPase and overall heat stability of the heterotetrameric AGPase. In summary, our results show that LSE370 intricately modulate the heat stability and enzymatic activity of the AGPase.
Transformation of Independent Oscillatory Inputs into Temporally Precise Rate Codes
Authors: Tingley David , Alexander Andrew A. , Quinn Laleh K. , Chiba Andrea A. , Nitz Douglas
Published: May 2016

Complex behaviors demand temporal coordination among functionally distinct brain regions. The basal forebrain’s afferent and efferent structure suggests a capacity for mediating such coordination. During performance of a selective attention task, synaptic activity in this region was dominated by four amplitude-independent oscillations temporally organized by the phase of the slowest, a theta rhythm. Further, oscillatory amplitudes were precisely organized by task epoch and a robust input/output transform, from synchronous synaptic activity to spiking rates of basal forebrain neurons, was identified. For many neurons, spiking was temporally organized as phase precessing sequences against theta band field potential oscillations. Remarkably, theta phase precession advanced in parallel to task progression, rather than absolute spatial location or time. Together, the findings reveal a process by which associative brain regions can integrate independent oscillatory inputs and transform them into sequence-specific, rate-coded outputs that are adaptive to the pace with which organisms interact with their environment.
Experience-dependent increases in sharp-wave ripples near visual targets
Authors: Leonard Timothy K. , Hoffman Kari L.
Published: May 2016

We measured hippocampal sharp-wave ripples during goal-directed visual exploration in macaques. Exploratory sharp-wave ripples were more frequent on familiar trials, in the second half of search, and near the visual target (i.e., the goal location). These spatial and temporal properties may help SWRs coordinate hippocampal and extra-hippocampal firing sequences that guide actions based on past experiences.
Illuminating odors: when optogenetics brings to light unexpected olfactory abilities
Authors: Grimaud Julien , Lledo Pierre-Marie
Published: May 2016

For hundreds of years, the sense of smell has generated great interest in the world literature, oenologists, and perfume makers but less of scientists. Only recently this sensory modality has gained new attraction in neuroscience when original tools issued from physiology, anatomy, or molecular biology were available to decipher how the brain makes sense of olfactory cues. However, this move was promptly dampened by the difficulties of developing quantitative approaches to study the relationship between the physical characteristics of stimuli and the sensations they create. An upswing of olfactory investigations occurred when genetic tools could be used in combination with devices borrowed from the physics of light (a hybrid technique called optogenetics) to scrutinize the olfactory system and to provide greater physiological precision for studying olfactory-driven behaviors. This review aims to present the most recent studies that have used light to activate components of the olfactory pathway, such as olfactory receptor neurons, or neurons located further downstream, while leaving intact others brain circuits. With the use of optogenetics to unravel the mystery of olfaction, scientists have begun to disentangle how the brain makes sense of smells. In this review, we shall discuss how the brain recognizes odors, how it memorizes them, and how animals make decisions based on odorants they are capable of sensing. Although this review deals with olfaction, the role of light will be central throughout.
Propensity for reciprocity among frontline employees
Authors: Gilliam David A. , Rayburn Steven W.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how other-regarding personality traits relate to reciprocity among frontline employees (FLEs).

Design/methodology/approach

Other-regarding personality variables were used to model the propensity for reciprocity and actual reciprocal behaviors with coworkers. Surveys of 276 FLEs were examined via structural equations modeling.

Findings

Other-regarding personality traits proved to be antecedents of reciprocity. Cynicism was particularly interesting in that it was positively related to reciprocity contrary to findings in other research.

Research limitations/implications

Among the interesting findings relating personality to reciprocity are a more affective type of reciprocity based on empathy and altruism, and a more calculative type based on cynicism related to Machiavellianism.

Practical implications

Managers can use the effects of personality traits on reciprocity and cooperation to hire and place FLEs in ways that provide superior service and increased profits.

Social implications

This paper indicates that certain individuals who might not typically be thought of as cooperative can in fact reciprocate. Specific ideas about cynicism and Machiavellian reciprocity in FLEs are discussed.

Originality/value

The findings will aid researchers and managers in understanding personality and FLEs cooperation. The findings on cynicism are particularly valuable in that they contradict some earlier research and commonly held managerial ideas.
Scaring waterfowl as a management tool: how much more do geese forage after disturbance?
Authors: Nolet Bart A. , Kölzsch Andrea , Elderenbosch Michiel , van Noordwijk Arie J.
Published: May 2016

With increasing numbers of many herbivorous waterfowl species, often foraging on farmland, the conflict with agriculture has intensified. One popular management tool is to scare birds off the land, often in association with shooting. However, the energy costs of flying are considerably higher than those of resting. Therefore, when birds fly off after a disturbance, they use extra energy that subsequently needs to be compensated.

We used the white‐fronted goose Anser albifrons, the most common (grass‐eating) goose wintering in western Europe, as a model species. We measured flight durations by high‐frequency accelerometer recordings over 2 × 24 h in nine focal geese that were only incidentally disturbed. We also made direct observations on these days to determine whether the flight durations were reliably recorded. Using both a simple and a more realistic model of the energy balance, we calculated the extra grass consumption resulting from additional intentional disturbances.

On average, the geese flew daily 2 × 323 s (from and to their roosting sites at 3200 m) and furthermore took to the air 5·3 times during a day (and 1·9 times a night). Multiplied with the average flight durations of 195 s, this gives a total flying time of almost 0·6 h day−1 and a total foraging time of 7·4 h day−1. The extra foraging time needed to compensate for additional intentional disturbances strongly depends on the frequency of such disturbances and the following flight duration. If, for example, flights when intentionally disturbed are twice as long (2 × 195 s), the extra foraging time will be 3·7% day−1 (2·3–3·2% day−1 in the more realistic model) for each intentional disturbance, and the geese will no longer be able to cover their energy requirements when intentionally disturbed six times per day.

Synthesis and applications. Recent experiments suggest that geese have to be scared frequently in order to reduce goose visitation to particular fields. With an intentional disturbance rate, for example, of five times a day, the birds' compensation for the increased energy expenditure will lead to a higher overall consumption of grass of 11·5–16% day−1. Accommodation schemes have to take such increases in total grass consumption into account when deciding on the refuge areas to be set aside.
Capturing individual‐level parameters of influenza A virus dynamics in wild ducks using multistate models
Authors: Avril Alexis , Grosbois Vladimir , Latorre‐Margalef Neus , Gaidet Nicolas , Tolf Conny , Olsen Björn , Waldenström Jonas
Published: May 2016

Disease prevalence in wildlife is governed by epidemiological parameters (infection and recovery rates) and response to infection, both of which vary within and among individual hosts. Studies quantifying these individual‐scale parameters and documenting their source of variation in wild hosts are fundamental for predicting disease dynamics. Such studies do not exist for the influenza A virus (IAV), despite its strong impact on the global economy and public health.

Using capture–recaptures of 3500 individual mallardsAnas platyrhynchosduring seven migration seasons at a stopover site in southern Sweden, we provide the first empirical description of the individual‐based mechanisms ofIAVdynamics in a wild reservoir host.

For most years, prevalence and risk ofIAVinfection peaked at a single time during the autumn migration season, but the timing, shape and intensity of the infection curve showed strong annual heterogeneity. In contrast, the seasonal pattern of recovery rate only varied in intensity across years.

Adults and juveniles displayed similar seasonal patterns of infection and recovery each year. However, compared to adults, juveniles experienced twice the risk of becoming infected, whereas recovery rates were similar across age categories. Finally, we did not find evidence that infection influenced the timing of emigration.

Synthesis and applications. Our study provides robust empirical estimates of epidemiological parameters for predicting influenza A virus (IAV) dynamics. However, the strong annual variation in infection curves makes forecasting difficult. Prevalence data can provide reliable surveillance indicators as long as they catch the variation in infection risk. However, individual‐based monitoring of infection is required to verify this assumption in areas where surveillance occurs. In this context, monitoring of captive sentinel birds kept in close contact with wild birds is useful. The fact that infection does not impact the timing of migration underpins the potential for mallards to spread viruses rapidly over large geographical scales. Hence, we strongly encourageIAVsurveillance with a multistate capture–recapture approach along the entire migratory flyway of mallards.
The Contribution of Skilled Nursing Facilities to Hospitals’ Readmission Rate
Authors: Rahman Momotazur , McHugh John , Gozalo Pedro L. , Ackerly Dana Clay , Mor Vincent
Published: May 2016

Objective

To examine the relative influence of hospital and skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) on 30‐day rehospitalization.

Data Sources/Settings

Elderly Medicare beneficiaries newly admitted to a SNF following hospitalization.

Study Design

We ranked hospitals and SNFs into quartiles based on previous years’ adjusted rehospitalization rates (ARRs) and examined how rehospitalizations from a given hospital vary depending upon the admitting SNF ARR quartile. We examined whether the availability of SNFs with low rehospitalization rates influenced hospitals’ SNF readmission rates and whether changes in a hospital's ARR over 3 years is associated with changes in the SNFs to which they discharge.

Principal Findings

Hospital readmission rates from SNFs varied 5 percentage points between patients discharged to SNFs in the lowest and the highest rehospitalization quartiles. Low rehospitalization rate hospitals sent a larger fraction of their patients to the lowest rehospitalization SNFs available in the area. A 10 percent increase in hospital's share of discharges to the lowest rehospitalization quartile SNFs is associated with a 1 percentage point reduction in hospital's ARR.

Conclusions

The SNF rehospitalization rate has greater influence on patients’ risk of rehospitalization than the discharging hospital. Identifying high‐performing SNFs may be a powerful strategy for hospitals to reduce rehospitalizations.