bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The cultural economy of cleantech: environmental discourse and the emergence of a new technology sector
Authors: Caprotti Federico
Published: December 2011

The paper analyses the discursive definition of the cleantech sector over the period 2000–10. It develops a dialogue between a cultural economy approach to sectoral development and recent research on the role of discourse in defining discursive arenas of environmental concern. The cleantech sector’s rapid emergence in less than a decade can be seen as an example of the development of the cultural economy of an economic sector, defined in part through discursive logics and strategies performed by networks of actors constituted by firms, executives and policy professionals as well as non‐governmental organisations and industry bodies. The paper conceptualises cleantech as a socio‐technical sector that has developed through mechanisms that have established a dynamic sectoral identity as well as legitimacy around the way in which cleantech has been defined by networks of actors. The process of sectoral definition has, in turn, been based on the establishment of discursive logics that justify and make sense of the cleantech sector for investor firms and governments alike. Three discursive strands are thus identified and examined in the paper: the depiction of cleantech as the next paradigmatic technology revolution, the concept of cleantech as market‐driven and the idea of cleantech as a ‘technical fix’ or solution to climate crisis.
Ethanol Inhibition of Up‐States in Prefrontal Cortical Neurons Expressing the Genetically Encoded Calcium Indicator GCaMP3
Authors: Woodward John J. , Pava Matthew
Published: December 2011

Background:  The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is critically involved in working memory, cognition, and decision making; processes significantly affected by ethanol (EtOH). During quiet restfulness or sleep, PFC neurons show synaptically evoked oscillations in membrane potential between hyperpolarized down‐states and depolarized up‐states. Previous studies from this laboratory used whole‐cell electrophysiology and demonstrated that in individual neurons, EtOH inhibited PFC up‐states at concentrations associated with behavioral impairment. Although those studies monitored activity in 1 or 2 neurons at a time, it is likely that in vivo, larger networks of neurons participate in the complex functions of the PFC. In the present study, we used imaging and a genetically encoded calcium sensor to examine the effects of EtOH on the activity of multiple neurons simultaneously during up‐states.

Methods:  Slice cultures of mouse PFC were infected with an AAV virus encoding the calcium indicator GCaMP3 whose expression was driven by the neuron‐specific synapsin promoter. After 2 to 3 weeks in culture, a fast CCD‐camera imaging system was used to capture changes in GCaMP3 fluorescence before, during, and after exposure to EtOH.

Results:  PFC neurons displayed robust and reproducible changes in GCaMP3 fluorescence during evoked and spontaneous up‐states. Simultaneous whole‐cell patch‐clamp recording and GCaMP3 imaging verified that neurons transitioned into and out of up‐states together. Acute application of EtOH reliably depressed up‐state calcium signals with lower doses having a greater effect on up‐state duration than amplitude. These effects of EtOH on up‐state parameters were reversed during washout.

Conclusions:  The results of the present study indicate that EtOH has profound effects on up‐state activity in prefrontal neurons and suggest that this action may underlie some of the cognitive impairment associated with acute alcohol intoxication.
Ethanol Exposure During Pregnancy Persistently Attenuates Cranially Directed Blood Flow in the Developing Fetus: Evidence from Ultrasound Imaging in a Murine Second Trimester Equivalent Model
Authors: Bake Shameena , Tingling Joseph D. , Miranda Rajesh C.
Published: December 2011

Background:  Ethanol (EtOH) consumption during pregnancy can lead to fetal growth retardation, mental retardation, and neurodevelopmental delay. The fetal brain initiates neurogenesis and vasculogenesis during the second trimester, and depends on maternal‐fetal circulation for nutrition and growth signals. We used high‐resolution in vivo ultrasound imaging to test the hypothesis that EtOH interferes with fetal brain‐directed blood flow during this critical developmental period.

Methods:  Pregnant mice were lightly anesthetized on gestational day 12 with an isoflurane/oxygen mixture. We assessed the effect of single and repeated binge‐like maternal EtOH exposures at 3 g/kg, administered by intragastric gavage or intraperitoneal injection, on maternal circulation and fetal umbilical, aortic, internal carotid, and middle cerebral arterial circulation.

Results:  Binge maternal EtOH exposure, regardless of exposure route, significantly reduced fetal arterial blood acceleration and velocity time integral (VTI), from umbilical to cerebral arteries, without a change in fetal heart rate and resistivity indices. Importantly a single maternal binge EtOH exposure induced persistent suppression of fetal arterial VTI for at least 24 hours. Repeated binge episodes resulted in a continuing and persistent suppression of fetal VTI. Qualitative assessments showed that maternal EtOH exposure induced oscillatory, nondirectional blood flow in fetal cerebral arteries. Maternal cardiac and other physiological parameters remained unaltered.

Conclusions:  These data show that binge‐type maternal EtOH exposure results in rapid and persistent loss of blood flow from the umbilical artery to the fetal brain, potentially compromising nutrition and the maternal/fetal endocrine environment during a critical period for neuron formation and angiogenesis in the maturing brain.
Insider Knowledge
Authors: Dickerson Victoria C.
Published: December 2011

以下三种风格的话题有何共同之处呢?《国王的演讲》(于2011年获得2010年度奥斯卡最佳影片,改编自先前默默无闻的英国作家大卫•赛德勒的一部戏剧),《皮普先生》(新西兰作家劳埃德•琼斯的一部小说,2006年进入曼布克奖决选名单),以及《叙事治疗法》(由史蒂芬•马蒂根新近撰写出版,对叙事思想进行阐述)。本篇文学评论提出串联这些不同风格作品的单一主题是对所谓”内部知识”的理解。
Caffeic Acid Inhibits Acute Hyperhomocysteinemia‐Induced Leukocyte Rolling and Adhesion in Mouse Cerebral Venules
Authors: ZHAO HAI‐PING , FENG JUAN , SUN KAI , LIU YU‐YING , WEI XIAO‐HONG , FAN JING‐YU , HUANG PING , MAO XIAO‐WEI , ZHOU ZHOU , WANG CHUAN‐SHE , WANG XIAN , HAN JING‐YAN
Published: December 2011

Please cite this paper as: Zhao H‐P, Feng J, Sun K, Liu Y‐Y, Wei X‐H, Fan J‐Y, Huang P, Mao X‐W, Zhou Z, Wang C‐S, Wang X, Han J‐Y. Caffeic acid inhibits acute hyperhomocysteinemia‐induced leukocyte rolling and adhesion in mouse cerebral venules. Microcirculation19: 233–244, 2012.

Objective:  To investigate the effects and possible mechanisms of CA on acute HHcy‐induced leukocyte rolling and adhesion in mouse cerebral venules.

Methods:  Male C57 BL/6J mice were injected with DL‐Hcy (50 mg/kg) and CA (10 mg/kg). The effect of CA on HHcy‐induced leukocyte rolling and adhesion in cerebral vessels was assessed using intravital microscopy. Plasma cytokines and chemokines were evaluated by cytometric bead array. ROS production in HUVECs and adhesion molecule expression on leukocytes were determined by flow cytometry. E‐selectin and ICAM‐1 expression in cerebrovascular endothelium was detected by immunohistochemistry. CD18 phosphorylation and the Src/PI3K/Akt pathway in leukocytes were determined by confocal microscopy and Western blot.

Results:  CA inhibited HHcy‐elicited leukocyte rolling and adhesion, decreased ROS production in HUVECs, and reduced plasma KC, MIP‐2, and MCP‐1 levels. CA reduced the E‐selectin and ICAM‐1 expression on cerebrovascular endothelium and CD11b/CD18 on leukocytes caused by HHcy. Of notice, CA depressed CD18 phosphorylation and the Src/PI3K/Akt pathway in leukocytes.

Conclusions:  CA inhibited HHcy‐provoked leukocyte rolling and adhesion in cerebral venules, ameliorating adhesion molecule expression and activation, which is related to the suppression of the Src/PI3K/Akt pathway in leukocytes.
Road connectivity, population, and crop production in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Dorosh Paul , Wang Hyoung Gun , You Liangzhi , Schmidt Emily
Published: December 2011

This study adopts a cross‐sectional spatial approach to examine the relationship between transport infrastructure, population location, and agricultural production in Sub‐Saharan Africa using new data obtained from geographic information systems (GIS). We find that both population and agricultural production are spatially concentrated near large cities, with 41.4% of population and 23.6% of agricultural production (in value terms) within 2.5 hours travel time to large cities. Taking into account agroecological and other factors, we find a statistically significant association between travel time and agricultural production. Using coefficients estimated for Mozambique, we simulate the effects of hypothetical increases in road investments on travel times and agricultural production, suggesting that improvements in road infrastructure could facilitate a substantial increase in agricultural production.
Lateral ridge augmentation using a PCL‐TCP scaffold in a clinically relevant but challenging micropig model
Authors: Yeo A. , Cheok C. , Teoh S. H. , Zhang Z. Y. , Buser D. , Bosshardt D. D.
Published: December 2011

Background

In implant dentistry, there is a need for synthetic bone substitute blocks to support ridge augmentation in situations where large bone volumes are missing. Polycaprolactone‐based scaffolds demonstrated excellent results in bone tissue engineering applications. The use of customized polycaprolactone‐tricalcium phosphate (PCL‐TCP) displayed promising results from recent rat femur and rabbit calvaria studies. However, data from clinically representative models in larger animals do not exist.

Objective

To evaluate new bone formation in association with a novel PCL‐TCP scaffold in comparison with an autogenous bone block graft for the reconstruction of large dentoalveolar defects in a clinically relevant but challenging pig jaw model.

Material and methods

Chronic, non‐contained one‐wall defects were created in the mandible of micropigs and randomly assigned to receive one of the following guided bone regeneration (GBR) procedures for a period of 6 months. (A) Collagen membrane + autogenous block graft or (B) Collagen membrane + PCL‐TCP scaffold. Micro computed tomography (μ‐CT), histology and histomorphometry were used to assess new bone formation.

Results

Although μ‐CT and histomorphometric analysis demonstrated a slight discrepancy between the measurements, the group utilizing autogenous bone grafts consistently reported superior new bone formation as compared to PCL‐TCP scaffolds. When measured using μ‐CT, the ratio of bone volume fraction for PCL‐TCP scaffolds with respect to autografts yielded a mean efficacy of approximately 51%. Histological examination revealed that under favorable conditions, the new bone matrix and new bone marrow were in direct contact with the PCL‐TCP scaffold rods and invading the interstices, suggesting good biocompatibility and high osteoconductivity. Autograft block grafts demonstrated 48.5–57.4% of pronounced resorption after 6 months following ridge augmentation.

Conclusions

PCL‐TCP scaffolds have demonstrated the potential application for lateral ridge augmentation following a healing period of 6 months in a micropig model.
SKHIN/Sprd, a new genetically defined inbred hairless mouse strain for UV‐induced skin carcinogenesis studies
Authors: Perez Carlos , Parker‐Thornburg Jan , Mikulec Carol , Kusewitt Donna F. , Fischer Susan M. , DiGiovanni John , Conti Claudio J. , Benavides Fernando
Published: December 2011

Abstract: Strains of mice vary in their susceptibility to ultra‐violet (UV) radiation‐induced skin tumors. Some strains of hairless mice (homozygous for the spontaneousHrhrmutation) are particularly susceptible to these tumors. The skin tumors that develop in hairless mice resemble, both at the morphologic and molecular levels, UV‐induced squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) and their precursors in human. The most commonly employed hairless mice belong to the SKH1 stock. However, these mice are outbred and their genetic background is not characterized, which makes them a poor model for genetic studies. We have developed a new inbred strain from outbred SKH1 mice that we named SKHIN/Sprd (now at generation F31). In order to characterize the genetic background of this new strain, we genotyped a cohort of mice at F30 with 92 microsatellites and 140 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) evenly distributed throughout the mouse genome. We also exposed SKHIN/Sprd mice to chronic UV irradiation and showed that they are as susceptible to UV‐induced skin carcinogenesis as outbred SKH1 mice. In addition, we proved that, albeit with low efficiency, inbred SKHIN/Sprd mice are suitable for transgenic production by classical pronuclear microinjection. This new inbred strain will be useful for the development of transgenic and congenic strains on a hairless inbred background as well as the establishment of syngeneic tumor cell lines. These new tools can potentially help elucidate a number of features of the cutaneous response to UV irradiation in humans, including the effect of genetic background and modifier genes.
Vertical Bone Augmentation with Simultaneous Dental Implantation Using Crestal Biomaterial Rings: A Rabbit Animal Study
Authors: Draenert Florian G. , Kämmerer Peer W. , Palarie Victor , Wagner Wilfried
Published: December 2011

Background: Ceramic biomaterial blocks like hydroxyl apatite are too brittle for simple simultaneous vertical augmentation and dental implant placement. Biological scaffolds of xenogenic or allogenic origin are known to be advantageous.

Purpose: The aim of this study was the proof of principle for combined vertical bone augmentation and dental implantation with marginal cuffs made of biological scaffolds with interconnecting porous system and titanium dental implants.

Materials and Methods: Cylindrical porcine biomaterial rings (processed, mineralized bone matrix) were placed in combination with titanium dental implants in the tibia model using six chinchilla bastard rabbits (n = 12 samples). Histological examination included undecalcified histological examination with toluidine blue staining and fluorescence microscopy. Animals were sacrificed after 30 days.

Results: The results showed bony healing in the scaffolds with immature bone tissue ingrowth following the trabecular structure, showing lamellar cancellous bone healing. Fluorescence microscope showed analogous results.

Conclusion: The biological scaffold proved a biocompatibility in a xenogenic setting. The vertical bone augmentation with simultaneous implantation was successful and proved the feasibility of the concept.
Estimating Obstetric Mortality from Pregnancy‐Related Deaths Recorded in Demographic Censuses and Surveys
Authors: Garenne Michel
Published: December 2011

Demographic surveys and censuses often record pregnancy‐related deaths, defined as those occurring during the maternal risk period (pregnancy, delivery, and six weeks postpartum), but do not include cause of death. This study presents a method for estimating obstetric mortality from pregnancy‐related deaths data. Calculations are based on multiple‐decrement life tables, and data needed are simply age‐specific fertility and mortality rates that are commonly available in Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) or census data, and an estimate of the relative risk of death from nonobstetric causes during the maternal risk period. The method is tested on 59 DHS surveys from Africa. Results show that, on average, less than half of the pregnancy‐related deaths are attributable to obstetric causes. This proportion varies with the level of mortality and fertility, and in particular with the prevalence of HIV in the population.
Changes in Contraceptive Use Following Integration of Family Planning into ART Services in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: McCarraher Donna R. , Vance Gwyneth , Gwarzo Usman , Taylor Douglas , Chabikuli Otto Nzapfurundi
Published: December 2011

One strategy for meeting the contraceptive needs of HIV‐positive women is to integrate family planning into HIV services. In 2008 in Cross River State, Nigeria, family planning was integrated into antiretroviral (ART) services in five local government areas. A basic family planning/HIV integration model was implemented in three of these areas, and an enhanced model in the other two. We conducted baseline interviews in 2008 and follow‐up interviews 12–14 months later with 274 female ART clients aged 18–45 in 2009 across the five areas. Unmet need for contraception was high at baseline (28–35 percent). We found that modern contraceptive use rose in the enhanced and basic groups; most of the increase was in consistent condom use. Despite an increase in family planning counseling by ART providers, referrals to family planning services for noncondom methods were low. We conclude by presenting alternative strategies for family planning/HIV integration in settings where large families and low contraceptive use are normative.
Scent Recognition of Infected Status in Humans
Authors: Moshkin Mikhail , Litvinova Nadezhda , Litvinova Ekaterina A. , Bedareva Alena , Lutsyuk Andrey , Gerlinskaya Ludmila
Published: December 2011

Introduction

There is a body of experimental evidence that mice and rats use chemical signals to avoid sexual contact with infected conspecifics. In contrast to animals, body scent of sick humans is employed only in medical diagnostics.

A modification of human body odor, due to an infection, has not been studied as a potential signal for choice of a sexual partner. It might, however, be especially important for sexually transmitted infections (STI) because many such infections have no obvious external manifestations.

Aim

In this study, we have investigated odor pleasantness of young men infected with gonorrhea, Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Methods

We collected armpit sweat and saliva from young men (17–25 years old) belonging to three groups: healthy persons (N = 16), young men infected with gonorrhea, Neisseria gonorrhoeae (N = 13), and persons recovered due to specific therapy (N = 5). The sweat samples odor was then assessed by healthy young women (17–20 years old). Concentrations of cortisol, testosterone, immunoglobulin A (IgA), and immunoglobulin G (IgG) were measured in saliva by means of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Main Outcome Measures

Subjective rates of odor pleasantness, association of scent of armpit sweat with odor descriptors, stepwise regression of odor pleasantness and salivary cortisol, testosterone, IgA, and IgG.

Results

The odor from infected individuals was reported as less pleasant in comparison with the odor of healthy and recovered young men. The scent of infected men was more frequently associated by raters with the descriptor “putrid.” Odor pleasantness of the male sweat correlated negatively with concentration of the nonspecific salivary IgA and IgG, which was measured as an indicator of current immunoenhancement.

Conclusion

Perhaps, the immune-dependent reduction of the scent pleasantness in the acute phase of STI is part of an evolutionary mechanism ensuring, unconsciously, avoidance of a risky romantic partner.
Prevalence and Predictors of Sexual Problems in Men Aged 75–95 Years: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Hyde Zoë , Flicker Leon , Hankey Graeme J. , Almeida Osvaldo P. , McCaul Kieran A. , Chubb S.A. Paul , Yeap Bu B.
Published: December 2011

Introduction

Hypogonadism is associated with impaired libido and erectile dysfunction in young men, but the causes of sexual dysfunction in older men are less well understood.

Aim

To determine the prevalence and predictors of sexual problems in older men.

Main Outcome Measure

Sexual problems, as assessed by a self-reported questionnaire.

Methods

This was a population-based, cohort study of 3,274 community-dwelling men aged 75–95 years (mean 82 years) from Perth, Western Australia. Questionnaires in 2001–2004 and 2008–2009 assessed social and medical risk factors. Sex hormones were measured in 2001–2004. Predictors of sexual problems, measured in 2008–2009, were assessed cross-sectionally in the entire sample, and longitudinally in a subset of 1,744 men with sex hormone data.

Results

Sexual problems were highly prevalent, with 49.4% (95% confidence interval 47.7% to 51.1%) reporting erectile problems, 47.7% (45.9% to 49.4%) lacking interest in sexual activity, 38.7% (37.0% to 40.3%) unable to climax, and 20.4% (19.1% to 21.8%) anxious about their ability to perform sexually. Painful and unpleasurable sex were less common (<5%). Overall, 72.0% (70.5% to 73.6%) reported at least one problem. In multivariate binary logistic regression analyses, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, prostate disorders, and insomnia were the factors most commonly associated with sexual problems. Low testosterone levels were associated with lack of interest in sex, but not with other complaints.

Conclusions

Sexual problems are common in elderly men. Chronic disease, depression, and insomnia appear to be the main modifiable risk factors. Androgen deficiency is unlikely to be a major cause of sexual problems in this age group.
Nutrition Education Intervention Improves Vegetable‐Related Attitude, Self‐Efficacy, Preference, and Knowledge of Fourth‐Grade Students
Authors: Wall Denise E. , Least Christine , Gromis Judy , Lohse Barbara
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND: Impact of a classroom‐based, standardized intervention to address limited vegetable consumption of fourth graders was assessed.

METHODS: A 4‐lesson, vegetable‐focused intervention, revised from extant materials was repurposed for Pennsylvania fourth graders with lessons aligned with state academic standards. A reliability‐tested survey was modified, then examined for face and content validity and test‐retest reliability. Lessons and evaluation materials were modified through an iterative testing process with educator feedback. A nonequivalent control group design was stratified by local Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP‐Ed) partnering organizations with random assignment of participating elementary schools as control (N = 68) or intervention (N = 72) treatments. Independent t‐tests compared control and intervention group changes. A mixed effects model was created to account for classroom effects from the nested sampling method of selecting classrooms within SNAP‐Ed partnering organizations. General linear model univariate analyses of variance were conducted to assess intervention effects considering gender, and food preparation/cooking experience.

RESULTS: During a 3‐ to 5‐week time frame, 57 intervention classrooms (N = 1047 students) and 51 control classrooms (N = 890) completed pre‐ and post‐testing. Intervention students improved in vegetable‐related attitude, self‐efficacy, preference, and knowledge scores (p < .001). For example, intervention vegetable preference increased 1.56 ± 5.80 points; control group mean increase was only 0.08 ± 4.82 points. Group differences in score changes were not affected by gender or interactions between gender and food preparation/cooking experience with family.

CONCLUSIONS: A defined intervention delivered in a SNAP‐Ed setting can positively impact mediators associated with vegetable intake for fourth‐grade students.
Synthesis, characterisation and application of new tamarind triethylamine (TTEA) resin for removal of toxic metal ions from the effluent of Puneet Steel Industry, Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Authors: Singh Aresh V. , Soni Dilip K. , Kumawat Indraj Kumar
Published: December 2011

A new ion exchange resin tamarind triethylamine (TTEA) was chemically synthesised by modified Porath's method of functionalisation of polysaccharides. The prepared resin was characterised on the basis of ion exchange capacity, elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Chemical resistivity of TTEA resin was assessed in several acidic, basic media. The present method is simple and rapidly applicable for the removal and recovery of metal ions from effluent of industries. The distribution coefficient (K
d) values of metal ions have been determined by batch method. Owing to the large differences in K
d values of toxic metal ions at different pH, removal and recovery of metal ions from their aqueous solutions and effluent of Puneet Steel Industry, Jodhpur has been studied systematically. The adsorption of different metal ions on TTEA resin follows the order; Fe2+ > Zn2+ > Cu2+ > Pb2+ > Cd2+. The Ion exchange capacity (IEC) of TTEA resin was 2.04%.
Neotropical primates: taxonomy and recently described species and subspecies
Authors: Rylands A. B. , Mittermeier R. A. , Silva J. S.
Published: December 2011

The current taxonomy of theNewWorld primates (Platyrrhini) indicatesc.152 species (i.e. 204 species and subspecies) in 20 genera and four or five families. For various reasons, the number of taxa has increased considerably in the last 30 years; the adoption of the phylogenetic species concept, cytogenetic and molecular genetic studies, and the discovery of 31 new species and subspecies, among them. Here, we provide a summary of some of the key changes and developments in the taxonomy of these monkeys since theInternationalZooYearbook's previous special section onNewWorld primates in 1982 (Volume 22).
Orbitofrontal contributions to value‐based decision making: evidence from humans with frontal lobe damage
Authors: Fellows Lesley K.
Published: December 2011

The work described here aims to isolate the component processes of decision making that rely critically on particular subregions of the human prefrontal cortex, with a particular focus on the orbitofrontal cortex. Here, experiments isolating specific aspects of decision making, using very simple preference judgment and reinforcement learning paradigms, were carried out in patients with focal frontal damage. The orbitofrontal cortex and the adjacent ventromedial prefrontal cortex play a critical role in decisions based on subjective value, across many categories of stimuli, and in learning to choose between stimuli based on value feedback. However, these regions are not required for learning to choose between actions based on feedback, which instead seems to rely critically on the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex. These results point to a potentially common role for the orbitofrontal cortex in representing the context‐sensitive, subjective value of stimuli to allow consistent choices between them. They also argue for multiple, parallel, value‐based processes that influence behavior through dissociable mechanisms.
Contrasting reward signals in the orbitofrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex
Authors: Wallis Jonathan D. , Kennerley Steven W.
Published: December 2011

Damage to the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) impairs decision making, but the underlying value computations that cause such impairments remain unclear. Both the OFC and ACC encode a wide variety of signals correlated with decision making. The current challenge is to determine how these two different areas support decision‐making processes. Here, we review a series of experiments that have helped define these roles. A special population of neurons in the ACC, but not the OFC, multiplex value information across decision parameters using a unified encoding scheme, and encode reward prediction errors. In contrast, neurons in the OFC, but not the ACC, encode the value of a choice relative to the recent history of choice values. Together, these results suggest complementary valuation processes: OFC neurons dynamically evaluate current choices relative to the value contexts recently experienced, while ACC neurons encode choice predictions and prediction errors using a common valuation currency reflecting the integration of multiple decision parameters.
Contributions of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex to goal‐directed action selection
Authors: O’Doherty John P.
Published: December 2011

In this article, it will be argued that one of the key contributions of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) to goal‐directed action selection lies both in retrieving the value of goals that are the putative outcomes of the decision process and in establishing a relative preference ranking for these goals by taking into account the value of each of the different goals under consideration in a given decision‐making scenario. These goal‐value signals are then suggested to be used as an input into the on‐line computation of action values mediated by brain regions outside of the vmPFC, such as parts of the parietal cortex, supplementary motor cortex, and dorsal striatum. Collectively, these areas can be considered to be constituent elements of a multistage decision process whereby the values of different goals must first be represented and ranked before the value of different courses of action available for the pursuit of those goals can be computed.
Corporate Repurchase Decisions Following Mutual Fund Sales
Authors: Dudley Evan , Manakyan Ani
Published: December 2011

This paper examines managerial response to widespread selling by mutual funds. We study the effect on share repurchases of liquidity‐based price pressure measured by mutual fund transactions caused by capital outflows. Firms whose shares undergo widespread selling by funds experiencing large outflows are more likely to repurchase their own shares, controlling for the effect of returns on share repurchases. The empirical results suggest that firms act as buyers of last resort and provide price support for their own shares.
VC Fund Financial Performance: The Relative Importance of IPO and M&A Exits and Exercise of Abandonment Options
Authors: Smith Richard , Pedace Robert , Sathe Vijay
Published: December 2011

By combining data from two sources, we are able to examine how fund financial performance is related to fund outcomes (initial public offering [IPO] and merger & acquisition (M&A) percentages) and abandonment practices. We also are able to relate fund performance to the track record of the venture capital firm. Our primary findings include: 1) fund IPO and M&A outcomes are statistically significantly related to financial performance, 2) M&A success is around 60% to 80% as important as IPO success in explaining performance, 3) except among the top performers, funds with aggressive exercise of abandonment options outperform those that continue to support a large percentage of their initial investments, and 4) prior performance of the firm, in terms of success percentages and abandonment practices, is significantly related to fund performance. Results are robust to controlling for selection bias of the reporting entities, as well as biases related to looking back at the performance of earlier funds survivorship, and attrition. Quantile regression estimates establish that our results hold across the full range of realized performance levels.
Characterizing the Risk of IPO Long‐Run Returns: The Impact of Momentum, Liquidity, Skewness, and Investment
Authors: Carter Richard B. , Dark Frederick H. , Floros Ioannis V. , Sapp Travis R. A.
Published: December 2011

We study 6,686 initial public offerings (IPOs) spanning the period 1981‐2005 and find that the new issues puzzle disappears in a Fama‐French three‐factor framework. IPOs do not underperform in the aftermarket on a risk‐adjusted basis and do not underperform a matched sample of nonissuers. IPO underperformance is concentrated in the 1980s and early 1990s, and IPOs either perform the same as the market or outperform on a risk‐adjusted basis from 1998 to 2005. We find that outperformance in the later period is driven by large firms. Factors for momentum, investment, liquidity, and skewness help to explain aftermarket returns, although size and book‐to‐market tend to proxy for skewness. IPO investors receive smaller expected returns due to negative momentum and investment exposure and in exchange for higher liquidity.
Site‐dependent actinic skin damage as risk factor for melanoma in a central European population
Authors: Wendt Judith , Schanab Oliver , Binder Michael , Pehamberger Hubert , Okamoto Ichiro
Published: December 2011

Sun exposure is causal for melanoma but is subject to bias of recall so that it is difficult to dissect the role of particular patterns of sun exposure. In this hospital‐based case‐control study (n = 1991), we aimed to analyze pigmentation traits and signs of actinic damage at different anatomic locations as markers of melanoma risk in central European patients. Although all signs of actinic damage (freckling, wrinkling and solar lentigos) were significantly associated with melanoma risk in multivariate logistic regression models adjusting for age and sex, the strongest associations were observed for the dorsal parts of the body: adjusted odds ratios [OR] were 4.22 for wrinkling on the neck, 3.43 for solar lentigos and 3.37 for freckling on the back (all P < 0.001), respectively. These associations were independent of age, sex and pigmentation traits. Our results indicate that signs of actinic damage are predictors of melanoma risk, particularly on the back.
Essay Review: The continuing saga of attribution theory*
Authors: FARR R. M.
Published: December 2011

Causal Attribution: From Cognitive Processes to Collective Beliefs. By M. Hewstone

Attribution. By G. Weary, M. A. Stanley and J. H. Harvey
The representation of self in multidimensional cognitive space
Authors: Breckler Steven J. , Pratkanis Anthony R. , McCann C. Douglas
Published: December 2011

A number of studies point to the efficiency with which people process self‐relevant trait information. The derivative models of self‐cognition account for many judgement latency and memory effects. These models tend to limit themselves, however, by neglecting the cognitive representation of the traits themselves. In contrast, research on implicit personality theory has focused on the cognitive representation of trait information, but has not always addressed the relationship between self and the judged traits. These two research domains were linked in an effort to specify the cognitive representation of self. A method for locating individuals and traits within the same spatial representation was developed and validated in two studies. In Study 1, subjects exhibited superior recall for traits located closest to self. In Study 2, subjects rapidly selected which of two traits better or least described self. ‘Better’ judgements were faster with increasing closeness to self of selected traits whereas ‘least’ judgements were faster with increasing closeness to self of non‐selected traits, supporting the view of self as a fixed anchor in self‐relevant decision making. Taken as a whole, these two studies provided further evidence for the self as an evaluative organization of knowledge.
The effect of multiple category membership on intergroup evaluations in a north Indian context: Class, caste and religion
Authors: Hagendoorn Louk , Henke Roger
Published: December 2011

In this study north Indians' evaluation of their own group and out‐groups differing in religious and social status is investigated. Respondents were 317 high school pupils in Benares and Mughalserai. Three hypotheses derived from social identity theory (SIT) research for the effects of crossed‐category membership and the effects of intergroup status differences were tested: 1. High‐caste Hindus and upper‐class Muslims will evaluate out‐groups differing in either status or religion less positively than the in‐group and will evaluate groups differing in both respects least positively (‘double out‐group response’). 2. Low‐caste Hindus and lower‐class Muslims will show a ‘minority‐group’ response, that is, evaluate high‐status out‐groups more positively than the in‐group and low‐status out‐groups. 3. Lower‐class/high‐caste Hindus will show a ‘communalized’ pattern of intergroup evaluations in which Muslims are evaluated less positively than Hindus. The first hypothesis was confirmed for high‐caste Hindu respondents, but not for upper‐class Muslims. The second hypothesis could not be tested sufficiently for Muslims because only 12 lower‐class Muslims participated in the survey. The evaluations by low‐caste Hindus, however, revealed a communalized response rather than the expected minority group response. The third hypothesis was confirmed. The disconfirmations are interpreted as an effect of the majority/minority positions of Hindus and Muslims in India and the consequences of these results for SIT are further evaluated in this light.
A longitudinal study of the effects of television viewing on aggressive and prosocial behaviours
Authors: Wiegman O. , Kuttschreuter M. , Baarda B.
Published: December 2011

A longitudinal study investigated the extent to which children's exposure to aggressive and prosocial television models in drama programmes influences their aggressive and prosocial behaviour. In The Netherlands we did not find significant positive correlations between prosocial behaviour and the viewing of prosocial behaviour on television. Positive correlations were found, however, between aggression and television violence viewing. This relationship disappeared almost completely when corrections for the starting level of aggression and intelligence were applied. The hypothesis, formulated on the basis of social learning theory, that television violence viewing leads to aggressive behaviour could not be supported. Our findings are further discussed and compared with the results found in the other countries participating in the international study.
Distraction, choice and self‐esteem effects on cognitive response facilitation
Authors: Lammers H. Bruce , Becker Lee A.
Published: December 2011

From an integration of distraction‐conflict theory and cognitive dissonance theory, it was hypothesized that distraction would increase, rather than disrupt, the proarguing of persons who had been given high choice to engage in discrepant behaviour, and would increase, rather than disrupt, the counterarguing of persons who had been given low choice to engage in such behaviour. Furthermore, it was expected that this cognitive response facilitation effect would more likely occur for persons high in self‐esteem. The results supported the hypotheses and were interpreted as also confirming the notion that dissonance‐related processes occur at the cognitive response level.
The effects of categorization on social judgement
Authors: McGarty Craig , Turner John C.
Published: December 2011

The effects of categorization on judgement have been of considerable importance in recent social psychology. The two principal effects of categorization on judgement are the accentuation of judged similarities within classes and of judged differences between classes. While there is good evidence for each effect independently, specific experiments tend to show one effect or the other but not both. The variables examined here were classification, social influence and information about the classification. In two experiments (N = 96 and N = 103) both categorization effects were observed as a result of explicit classification (the interclass effect in Expt 1 being significant only with moderate extremity information). Furthermore, in Expt 1 social influence had powerful effects. Interestingly, it was found that providing information per se did not increase the strength of categorization effects. It is concluded that both categorization effects are reliable in a social judgement task under appropriate conditions. The findings are used to argue that accessible categories generally become salient where they provide a meaningful fit to stimulus information and are implicitly normative.
Potency in groups: Articulating a construct
Authors: Guzzo Richard A. , Yost Paul R. , Campbell Richard J. , Shea Gregory P.
Published: December 2011

This paper examines potency, defined as the collective belief in a group that it can be effective, and its tole in determining group effectiveness. The paper illustrates the construct and reviews its origins. The distinctiveness of potency from efficacy and from other collective and motivational constructs is described. The measurement of potency is also examined. The paper concludes with a presentation of a conceptual framework for understanding the determinants of potency and with a discussion of future theory, research and practice.
Variation of out‐group presence and evaluation of the in‐group
Authors: Wagner Ulrich , Ward Phillip L.
Published: December 2011

According to the self‐categorization theory of group formation (Turner, Hogg, Oakes, Reicher & Wetherell, 1987), a group comes into existence when its members perceive themselves as belonging to a certain category. Based on this assumption, it is hypothesized that the extent of in‐group attraction and in‐group similarity should depend on the degree to which the in‐group is made salient. It was further predicted that this effect of in‐group salience should hold true only for highly identified group members and not for persons who identify on a low level with the group in question. In an experiment, students of psychology (N = 126) evaluated an in‐group member, i.e. a psychological counsellor, on the basis of a tape‐recorded therapeutic session and under different conditions of in‐group salience. Either the in‐group of psychologists was mentioned, or the in‐group was introduced in the context of relevant out‐groups, or, in addition, a conflict between in‐group and out‐groups was pointed out. The data support the hypothesis: that is, an intergroup conflict increases in‐group attraction and assumed similarity.
Causal attributions to states and events described by different classes of verbs
Authors: Corrigan Roberta
Published: December 2011

College students were asked to generate narratives describing the actions and states encoded by four classes of English verbs. Verbs within a class elicited similar narratives, while across classes the event descriptions varied in the animacy and social status of the event participants and in the antecedents and consequences of the target sentence containing the verb. When the same verbs were embedded within sentence contexts and students were asked to generate the remainder of the event, causal attributions matched those generated in the verb‐only context. Results are consistent with the knowledge structure approach to understanding events. Schemas for common English verbs for actions and states contain information about who or what is likely to do or feel the action or state, who or what is likely to be the recipient of the action or to elicit the state, and the causal relations between the schema participants.
Functional assembly of mammalian cochlear hair cells
Authors: Marcotti Walter
Published: December 2011

Hair cells in the mammalian inner ear convert sound into electrical signals that are relayed to the nervous system by the chemical neurotransmitter glutamate. Electrical information encoding sound is then passed through the central nervous system to the higher auditory centres in the brain, where it is used to construct a temporally and spatially accurate representation of the auditory landscape. To achieve this, hair cells must encode fundamental properties of sound stimuli at extremely high rates, not only during mechano‐electrical transduction, which occurs in the hair bundles at the cell apex, but also during electrochemical transduction at the specialized ribbon synapses at the cell base. How is the development of such a sophisticated cell regulated? More specifically, to what extent does physiological activity contribute to the progression of the intrinsic genetic programmes that drive cell differentiation? Hair cell differentiation takes about 3 weeks in most rodents, from terminal mitosis during embryonic development to the onset of hearing around 2 weeks after birth. Until recent years, most of the molecules involved in hair cell development and function were unknown, which was mainly due to difficulties in working with the mammalian cochlea and the very small number of hair cells, about 16,000 in humans, present in the auditory organ. Recent advances in the ability to record from the acutely isolated cochlea maintained in near‐physiological conditions, combined with the use of genetically modified mouse models, has allowed the identification of several proteins and molecular mechanisms that are crucial for the maturation and function of hair cells. In this article, I highlight recent findings from my laboratory that have furthered our understanding of how developing hair cells acquire the remarkable sensitivity of adult auditory sensory receptors.
Cardio‐renal and metabolic adaptations during pregnancy in female rats born small: implications for maternal health and second generation fetal growth
Authors: Gallo Linda A. , Tran Melanie , Moritz Karen M. , Mazzuca Marc Q. , Parry Laura J. , Westcott Kerryn T. , Jefferies Andrew J. , Cullen‐McEwen Luise A. , Wlodek Mary E.
Published: December 2011

Non‐technical summary  Low weight at birth, or being born small for gestational age, is associated with increased risk of a number of adult diseases, including cardiovascular and kidney disease and diabetes. Generally, low birth weight males have a greater risk of developing such diseases but females do present with subtle changes in organ structure and function that might render them susceptible to lifestyle challenges. We show, for the first time, that low birth weight females have largely normal cardiovascular and kidney adaptations to pregnancy but they do develop altered glucose control. We have shown that their own fetuses are growth restricted suggesting that low birth weight and risk of disease development can be passed on to subsequent generations. These results warrant close monitoring of pregnant women who were born small and shape future studies to focus on therapeutic strategies to minimize the transmission of low birth weight and adult disease risk.
Hedgehog signalling in gut development, physiology and cancer
Authors: Merchant Juanita L.
Published: December 2011

Abstract  The Hedgehog pathway is one of the most common signal transduction pathways used by mammalian cells. Most studies have focused on its role during development, primarily of the nervous system, skin, bone and pancreas. Due to the activation of this pathway during proliferation and neoplastic transformation, more recent studies have examined its role in adult tissues. Significant levels of sonic hedgehog are expressed in the gastric mucosa, which has served to direct analysis of its role during organogenesis, gastric acid secretion and neoplastic transformation. Therefore the goal of this review is to apply current knowledge of this pathway to further our understanding of gastrointestinal physiology and neoplasia, using the stomach as a prototype.
Texture and Grain Boundary Character Distribution in a Thermomechanically Processed OFHC Copper
Authors: Al-Fadhalah Khaled J.
Published: December 2011

The effect of texture on grain boundary character distribution (GBCD) in thermomechanically processed oxygen-free high-conductivity copper has been investigated. Copper samples were cold rolled to a reduction in thickness of 50% and then annealed for 60 min in the range of 400–600°C. GBCD and texture were measured using electron backscatter diffraction. The fraction of special boundaries (Σ3, Σ9, and Σ27) varied from 59% to 71%, with the maximum in the sample annealed at 500°C. The results indicate that cold rolling provided a strong texture of brass type. It was found that the sample annealed at 500°C have texture components of cube, Goss, rotated-Goss, and Y orientations. These texture components were in relation with the formation of annealing twins and Σ3 boundaries. It was also shown that twin-induced GBCD evolution occurred by strain-induced boundary migration, multiple twinning, and conventional recrystallization. Annealing at 600°C caused full recrystallization and grain growth, showing a strong cube recrystallization texture. The grain growth was found to hinder the formation of special boundaries.