bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Central Problems in Social Theory
Authors: Giddens Anthony 
Published: October 2015

In this new and brilliantly organized book of essays, Anthony Giddens discusses three main theoretical traditions in social science that cut across the division between Marxist and non-Marxist sociology: interpretive sociology, functionalism, and structuralism.
Beginning with a critical examination of the importance of structuralism for contemporary sociology, the author develops a comprehensive account of what he calls "the theory of structuration." One of the main themes is that social theory must recognize, as it has not done hitherto, that all social actors are knowledgeable about the social systems they produce and reproduce in their conduct. In order to grasp the significance of this, he argues, we have to reconsider some of the most basic concepts in sociology.
In particular, Giddens argues, it is essential to recognize the significance of time-space relations in social theory. He rejects the distinction between synchrony and diachrony, or statics and dynamics, involved in both structuralism and functionalism, and offers extensive critical commentary on the latter as an approach to sociology.
The book, which can be described as a "non-functionalist manifesto," breaks with the three main theoretical traditions in the social sciences today while retaining the significant contributions each contains. In so doing Giddens discusses a range of fundamental problem areas in the social sciences: power and domination, conflict and contradiction, and social transformation. He concludes with an overall appraisal of the key problems in social theory today.
Effect of the Addition of Chili Pepper Powder on Vegetable Oils Oxidative Stability
Authors: Cavazza Antonella , Corti Stefania , Mancinelli Claudia , Bignardi Chiara , Corradini Claudio 
Published: October 2015

AbstractRed chili pepper represents an excellent source of functional bioactive compounds, and its use as food additive could be useful for protecting other products from spoilage. Olive oils show a limited shelf‐life due to a progressive quality deterioration linked mostly to oxidation reactions providing a loss of quality in terms of organoleptic and healthy properties. In this work, the addition of red chili pepper powder to virgin, extra‐virgin olive and sunflower oils was proved to be effective in improving their stability during 12 months of shelf‐life. Oil stability was monitored by employing the Oxitest system, based on accelerating the oxidation process. Three pepper powders of different pungency were added to the virgin olive oil samples with the aim of investigating whether capsaicinoids could be responsible for the observed effects. The strongest effect was recorded when employing the less pungent pepper showing that the protective effect could not be attributed to the capsaicinoids content. Besides, a screening on different oils demonstrated that the less stable samples received a stronger protective effect. The evaluation of a possible dose‐effect relation was also carried out pointing out that a threshold dose of about 1 % was required to record an effect. The results suggest potential perspectives in the field of food technology, as addition of a small amount of sweet pepper could be proposed to prolong food shelf‐life.
The Long-Term Impact of an Education for Sustainability Course on Israeli Science and Technology Teachers’ Pro-Environment Awareness, Commitment and Behaviour
Authors: Abramovich Anat , Loria Yahavit 
Published: October 2015

AbstractThe impact of an Education for Sustainability (EfS) course for science and technology junior high school teachers on the intentional and actual environmental behaviour of participants was studied by researching the EfS implementation of 13 science and technology teachers within their family, community, and work environment. The research was qualitative in nature, where science and technology teachers’ insights on the EfS course were determined by means of an open-ended questionnaire and intensive interviews. Results indicated that the course clearly influenced the vast majority of the participants, who claimed that their environmental awareness had increased and they were capable of acting responsibly. All participants acted in favour of the environment among family, community, and at work. Yet, 2 years later, implementation seemed to be undermined by various internal and external barriers, such as the unavailability of convenient resources, or resistance on the part of family. The study suggests that course designers must include reference to potential difficulties and barriers in order to circumvent future obstacles. In addition, the implementation of post-course support would encourage overcoming the gap between willingness to act and actual practice.
Usefulness of Adenosinetriphosphate Bioluminescence Assay (ATPmetry) for Monitoring the Reprocessing of Endoscopes
Authors: Batailler Pierre , Saviuc Philippe , Picot-Gueraud Romain , Bosson Jean-Luc , Mallaret Marie-Reine 
Published: October 2015

OBJECTIVETo assess the diagnostic value of an adenosinetriphosphate bioluminescence assay (ATPmetry) to monitor the effectiveness of the reprocessing of endoscopes compared with microbiologic sampling.DESIGNDiagnostic study.SETTINGA 2,200-bed teaching hospital performing 5,000 to 6,000 endoscopic procedures annually.INCLUSION CRITERIAAll samples from bronchial or gastrointestinal endoscopes whatever the context.METHODSSamples for microbiologic analysis and ATPmetry measurements were taken when each endoscope was inspected following reprocessing. Sampling was performed by flushing each endoscope with 300 mL Neutralizing Pharmacopeia Diluent thiosulfate rinsing solution divided equally between the endoscope channels. For each endoscope a series of 3 ATPmetry measurements were made on a vial containing the first jet from each channel and a second series on the whole sample.RESULTSOf 165 samples from endoscopes, 11 exceeded the acceptability threshold of 25 colony-forming units/endoscope. In the first jet collected, the median (interquartile range) level of ATPmetry was 30.5 (15.3–37.7) relative light units (RLU) for samples with 25 or fewer colony-forming units compared with 37.0 (34.7–39.3) RLU for samples with more than 25 colony-forming units (P=.008). For the whole sample, the median (interquartile range) level of ATPmetry was 24.8 (14.3–36.3) RLU and 36.3 (36.0–38.3) RLU (P=.006), respectively. After adjusting on the batch of cleansing solution used, no difference in ATPmetry values was found between microbiologically acceptable and unacceptable samples.CONCLUSIONATPmetry cannot be used as an alternative or complementary approach to microbiologic tests for monitoring the reprocessing of endoscopes in FranceInfect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(12):1437–1443
No effect of modest selenium supplementation on insulin resistance in UK pregnant women, as assessed by plasma adiponectin concentration
Authors: Mao Jinyuan , Bath Sarah C. , Vanderlelie Jessica J. , Perkins Anthony V. , Redman Christopher W. G. , Rayman Margaret P. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractConcern has been expressed recently that Se may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, but this has not been tested in a randomised-controlled trial (RCT) in pregnant women. We took advantage of having stored plasma samples from the Se in Pregnancy Intervention (SPRINT) RCT of Se supplementation in pregnancy to test the effect of Se supplementation on a marker of insulin resistance in UK pregnant women. Because our blood samples were not fasted, we measured plasma adiponectin concentration, a recognised marker of insulin resistance that gives valid measurements in non-fasted samples, as diurnal variability is minor and there is no noticeable effect of food intake. In SPRINT, 230 primiparous UK women were randomised to treatment with Se (60 μg/d) or placebo from 12 weeks of gestation until delivery. We hypothesised that supplementation with Se at a nutritional level would not exacerbate the fall in adiponectin concentration that occurs in normal pregnancy, indicating the lack of an adverse effect on insulin resistance. Indeed, there was no significant difference between the two groups in the change in adiponectin from 12 to 35 weeks (P=0·938), nor when the analysis was restricted to the bottom or top quartiles of baseline whole-blood Se (P=0·515 and 0·858, respectively). Cross-sectionally, adiponectin concentration was not associated with any parameter of Se status, either at 12 or 35 weeks. It is reassuring that a nutritional dose of Se had no adverse effect on the concentration of adiponectin, a biomarker of insulin resistance, in pregnant women of modest Se status.
Nut consumption is associated with better nutrient intakes: results from the 2008/09 New Zealand Adult Nutrition Survey
Authors: Brown Rachel C. , Tey Siew Ling , Gray Andrew R. , Chisholm Alex , Smith Claire , Fleming Elizabeth , Parnell Winsome 
Published: October 2015

AbstractA limited number of studies have examined associations between nut consumption and nutrient intakes or diet quality. None has investigated these associations in the Southern Hemisphere. The purpose of this study was to examine associations between nut consumption and nutrient intakes among adult New Zealanders. Data from the 24-h recalls of 4721 participants from the cross-sectional 2008/09 New Zealand Adult Nutrition Survey (2008/09 NZANS) were used to determine whole nut intake and total nut intake from all sources as well as nutrient intakes. Regression models, both unadjusted and adjusted for potential confounders, were used to estimate differences in nutrient intakes between those consuming and those not consuming nuts. From adjusted models, compared with non-whole nut consumers, whole nut consumers had higher intakes of energy and percentage of energy from total fat, MUFA and PUFA, whereas percentage of energy from SFA and carbohydrate was lower (all P≤0·025). After the additional adjustment for energy intake, whole nut consumers had higher intakes of dietary fibre, vitamin E, folate, Cu, Mg, K, P and Zn (all P≤0·044), whereas cholesterol and vitamin B12 intakes were significantly lower (both P≤0·013). Total nut consumption was associated with similar nutrient profiles as observed in whole nut consumers, albeit less pronounced. Nut consumption was associated with better nutrient profiles, especially a lower intake of SFA and higher intakes of unsaturated fats and a number of vitamins and minerals that could collectively reduce the risk for chronic disease, in particular for CVD.
Molecular analysis of selected paramphistome isolates from cattle in southern Africa
Authors: Dube S. , Sibula M.S. , Dhlamini Z. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractParamphistomes are parasites of domestic and wild ruminants, the effects of which in animal health remain underestimated. Very few studies in Africa have been done using molecular techniques to resolve situations associated with taxonomical groupings and epidemiology of these parasites. In this study, the genetic variability of nine representative paramphistome isolates collected from southern African countries, namely Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe, was assessed using both morphological and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) rDNA sequence data. Morphological characterization and identification were carried out using median sagittal sections of the paramphistomes. DNA of the individual paramphistomes was isolated, the ITS2 rDNA was amplified, purified and sequenced. The sequences were submitted to GenBank, which assigned them the following accession numbers: KP639631, KP639630, KP639632, KP639633, KP639634, KP639635, KP639636, KP639637 and KP639638. These sequences were used for phylogenetic analysis using MEGA 6. Morphological characterization revealed three species of paramphistomes belonging to three different sub-families: oneStephanopharynx compactusisolate, a member of the Stephanopharyngidae sub-family; oneCarmyerius dollfusiisolate, a member of the Gastrothylacidae sub-family; and sevenCalicophoron microbothriumisolates belonging to the Paramphistomidae sub-family. ITS2 sequence analysis using BlastN results indicated that this is the first report ofS. compactus(KP639630) andC. dollfusi(KP639636). Phylogenetic reconstruction of the paramphistome isolates revealed three separate clades representing the three species. However, the clade with all theC. microbothriumisolates was the only one that was supported by a higher bootstrap value of 92%, although there was no differentiation of the isolates according to geographical locations. The low divergence values on the ITS2 sequences of theC. microbothriumisolates indicate that ITS rDNA sequences can be used as a molecular tool to infer knowledge for resolving taxonomic groupings.
WHY DID SPANISH REGIONS NOT CONVERGE BEFORE THE CIVIL WAR? AGGLOMERATION ECONOMIES AND (REGIONAL) GROWTH REVISITED
Authors: Díez-Minguela Alfonso , Martínez-Galarraga Julio , Tirado-Fabregat Daniel A. 
Published: October 2015

ABSTRACTIn this paper we explore the relationship between the presence of agglomeration economies and regional economic growth in Spain during the period 1870-1930. The study allows us to revisit the existence of a trade-off between economic growth and territorial cohesion, and also to examine whether the existence of agglomeration economies could explain the upswing in regional income inequality during the early stages of development. In doing so, we present alternative indicators for agglomeration economies and estimate conditional growth regressions at province (NUTS3) level. In line with new economic geography models, agglomeration economies in a context of market integration widened regional inequality in the second half of the 19th century and hindered its reduction during the early decades of the 20th.
Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ϵ4 Allele Is Associated with Increased Symptom Reporting Following Sports Concussion
Authors: Merritt Victoria C. , Arnett Peter A. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractExploring the relationship between genetic factors and outcome following brain injury has received increased attention in recent years. However, few studies have evaluated the influence of genes on specific sequelae of concussion. The purpose of this study was to determine how the ϵ4 allele of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene influences symptom expression following sports-related concussion. Participants included 42 collegiate athletes who underwent neuropsychological testing, including completion of the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS), within 3 months after sustaining a concussion (73.8% were evaluated within 1 week). Athletes provided buccal samples that were analyzed to determine the make-up of their APOE genotype. Dependent variables included a total symptom score and four symptom clusters derived from the PCSS. Mann-Whitney U tests showed higher scores reported by athletes with the ϵ4 allele compared to those without it on the total symptom score and the physical and cognitive symptom clusters. Furthermore, logistic regression showed that the ϵ4 allele independently predicted those athletes who reported physical and cognitive symptoms following concussion. These findings illustrate that ϵ4+ athletes report greater symptomatology post-concussion than ϵ4- athletes, suggesting that the ϵ4 genotype may confer risk for poorer post-concussion outcome. (JINS, 2016, 22, 89–94)
Timing of referral to inpatient palliative care services for advanced cancer patients and earlier referral predictors in mainland China
Authors: Gu Xiaoli , Cheng Wenwu , Chen Menglei , Liu Minghui , Zhang Zhe 
Published: October 2015

AbstractObjective:Routine early integration of palliative care with advanced cancer management is not yet a part of standard practice in many countries, including mainland China. Whether patients in China suffering from advanced cancer are referred to palliative care services in a timely manner remains unclear. We sought to investigate the timing of palliative care referral of Chinese cancer patients at our center and its predictors.Method:Retrospective medical data including demographic characteristics and referral information were collected for analysis. A total of 759 patients referred to our palliative care unit (PCU) from January of 2007 to December of 2013 were included in the final analysis.Results:The mean age of the 759 patients included in the study was 62.89 years (range 61.95–63.82). Some 369 patients (48.6%) were male and 559 (73.6%) Shanghainese (indigenous). Lung cancer (17.9%) was the most common diagnosis. The time interval since enrollment into the PCU until a patient's death (length of stay, LOS) was calculated. A longer LOS indicated earlier referral to inpatient PC services. The median LOS was 21 days (CI95% = 19.79–22.21). Multivariate analysis showed that whether or not the patient was indigenous (p = 0.002) and younger than 65 (p = 0.031) were independent factors for a longer LOS. Such other characteristics as gender and primary cancer type bore no relationship to LOS.Significance of results:Our findings demonstrate that Chinese cancer patients are referred relatively late in the course of their disease to inpatient palliative care services. To overcome the barriers to early integration of palliative care into a patient's treatment plan, accurate information about palliative care must be provided to both oncologists and patients via comprehensive and systematic educational programs.
Activation and lysis of human CD4 cells latently infected with HIV-1
Authors: Pegu Amarendra , Asokan Mangaiarkarasi , Wu Lan , Wang Keyun , Hataye Jason , Casazza Joseph P. , Guo Xiaoti , Shi Wei , Georgiev Ivelin , Zhou Tongqing , Chen Xuejun , O’Dell Sijy , Todd John-Paul , Kwong Peter D. , Rao Srinivas S. , Yang Zhi-yong , Koup Richard A. , Mascola John R. , Nabel Gary J. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractThe treatment of AIDS with combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) remains lifelong largely because the virus persists in latent reservoirs. Elimination of latently infected cells could therefore reduce treatment duration and facilitate immune reconstitution. Here we report an approach to reduce the viral reservoir by activating dormant viral gene expression and directing T lymphocytes to lyse previously latent, HIV-1-infected cells. An immunomodulatory protein was created that combines the specificity of a HIV-1 broadly neutralizing antibody with that of an antibody to the CD3 component of the T-cell receptor. CD3 engagement by the protein can stimulate T-cell activation that induces proviral gene expression in latently infected T cells. It further stimulates CD8 T-cell effector function and redirects T cells to lyse these previously latent-infected cells through recognition of newly expressed Env. This immunomodulatory protein could potentially help to eliminate latently infected cells and deplete the viral reservoir in HIV-1-infected individuals.
Electric eels use high-voltage to track fast-moving prey
Authors: Catania Kenneth C. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractElectric eels (Electrophorus electricus) are legendary for their ability to incapacitate fish, humans, and horses with hundreds of volts of electricity. The function of this output as a weapon has been obvious for centuries but its potential role for electroreception has been overlooked. Here it is shown that electric eels use high-voltage simultaneously as a weapon and for precise and rapid electrolocation of fast-moving prey and conductors. Their speed, accuracy, and high-frequency pulse rate are reminiscent of bats using a ‘terminal feeding buzz’ to track insects. Eel’s exhibit ‘sensory conflict’ when mechanosensory and electrosensory cues are separated, striking first toward mechanosensory cues and later toward conductors. Strikes initiated in the absence of conductors are aborted. In addition to providing new insights into the evolution of strongly electric fish and showing electric eels to be far more sophisticated than previously described, these findings reveal a trait with markedly dichotomous functions.
Sex-specific regulation of follicle-stimulating hormone secretion by synaptotagmin 9
Authors: Roper Lindsey K. , Briguglio Joseph S. , Evans Chantell S. , Jackson Meyer B. , Chapman Edwin R. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractThe anterior pituitary releases six different hormones that control virtually all aspects of vertebrate physiology, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying their Ca2+-triggered release remain unknown. A subset of the synaptotagmin (syt) family of proteins serve as Ca2+ sensors for exocytosis in neurons and neuroendocrine cells, and are thus likely to regulate pituitary hormone secretion. Here we show that numerous syt isoforms are highly expressed in the pituitary gland in a lobe, and sex-specific manner. We further investigated a Ca2+-activated isoform, syt-9, and found that it is expressed in a subpopulation of anterior pituitary cells, the gonadotropes. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and syt-9 are highly co-localized in female, but not male, mice. Loss of syt-9 results in diminished basal and stimulated FSH secretion only in females, resulting in alterations in the oestrus cycle. This work uncovers a new function for syt-9 and reveals a novel sex difference in reproductive hormone secretion.
Extremely durable biofouling-resistant metallic surfaces based on electrodeposited nanoporous tungstite films on steel
Authors: Tesler Alexander B. , Kim Philseok , Kolle Stefan , Howell Caitlin , Ahanotu Onye , Aizenberg Joanna 
Published: October 2015

AbstractFormation of unwanted deposits on steels during their interaction with liquids is an inherent problem that often leads to corrosion, biofouling and results in reduction in durability and function. Here we report a new route to form anti-fouling steel surfaces by electrodeposition of nanoporous tungsten oxide (TO) films. TO-modified steels are as mechanically durable as bare steel and highly tolerant to compressive and tensile stresses due to chemical bonding to the substrate and island-like morphology. When inherently superhydrophilic TO coatings are converted to superhydrophobic, they remain non-wetting even after impingement with yttria-stabilized-zirconia particles, or exposure to ultraviolet light and extreme temperatures. Upon lubrication, these surfaces display omniphobicity against highly contaminating media retaining hitherto unseen mechanical durability. To illustrate the applicability of such a durable coating in biofouling conditions, we modified naval construction steels and surgical instruments and demonstrated significantly reduced marine algal film adhesion, Escherichia coli attachment and blood staining.