bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behaviour and buoyancy regulation in the deepest-diving reptile: the leatherback turtle
Authors: Fossette Sabrina , Gleiss Adrian C. , Myers Andy E. , Garner Steve , Liebsch Nikolai , Whitney Nicholas M. , Hays Graeme C. , Wilson Rory P. , Lutcavage Molly E.
Published: November 2010

In the face of the physical and physiological challenges of performing breath-hold deep dives, marine vertebrates have evolved different strategies. Although behavioural strategies in marine mammals and seabirds have been investigated in detail, little is known about the deepest-diving reptile – the leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea). Here, we deployed tri-axial accelerometers on female leatherbacks nesting on St Croix, US Virgin Islands, to explore their diving strategy. Our results show a consistent behavioural pattern within dives among individuals, with an initial period of active swimming at relatively steep descent angles (∼–40 deg), with a stroke frequency of 0.32 Hz, followed by a gliding phase. The depth at which the gliding phase began increased with the maximum depth of the dives. In addition, descent body angles and vertical velocities were higher during deeper dives. Leatherbacks might thus regulate their inspired air-volume according to the intended dive depth, similar to hard-shelled turtles and penguins. During the ascent, turtles actively swam with a stroke frequency of 0.30 Hz but with a low vertical velocity (∼0.40 ms–1) and a low pitch angle (∼+26 deg). Turtles might avoid succumbing to decompression sickness (‘the bends’) by ascending slowly to the surface. In addition, we suggest that the low body temperature of this marine ectotherm compared with that of endotherms might help reduce the risk of bubble formation by increasing the solubility of nitrogen in the blood. This physiological advantage, coupled with several behavioural and physical adaptations, might explain the particular ecological niche the leatherback turtle occupies among marine reptiles.
Optimal Portfolio Liquidation with Distress Risk
Authors: Brown David B. , Carlin Bruce Ian , Lobo Miguel Sousa
Published: November 2010

We analyze the problem of an investor who needs to unwind a portfolio in the face of recurring and uncertain liquidity needs, with a model that accounts for both permanent and temporary price impact of trading. We first show that a risk-neutral investor who myopically deleverages his position to meet an immediate need for cash always prefers to sell more liquid assets. If the investor faces the possibility of a downstream shock, however, the solution differs in several important ways. If the ensuing shock is sufficiently large, the nonmyopic investor unwinds positions more than immediately necessary and, all else being equal, prefers to retain more of the assets with low temporary price impact in order to hedge against possible distress. More generally, optimal liquidation involves selling strictly more of the assets with a lower ratio of permanent to temporary impact, even if these assets are relatively illiquid. The results suggest that properly accounting for the possibility of future shocks should play a role in managing large portfolios.
Regulation of Dendritic Spines, Spatial Memory, and Embryonic Development by the TANC Family of PSD-95-Interacting Proteins
Authors: Han Seungnam , Nam Jungyong , Li Yan , Kim Seho , Cho Suk-Hee , Cho Yi Sul , Choi So-Yeon , Choi Jeonghoon , Han Kihoon , Kim Youngrim , Na Moonseok , Kim Hyun , Bae Yong Chul , Choi Se-Young , Kim Eunjoon
Published: November 2010

PSD-95 (postsynaptic density-95) is thought to play important roles in the regulation of dendritic spines and excitatory synapses, but the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. TANC1 is a PSD-95-interacting synaptic protein that contains multiple domains for protein-protein interactions but whose function is not well understood. In the present study, we provide evidence that TANC1 and its close relative TANC2 regulate dendritic spines and excitatory synapses. Overexpression of TANC1 and TANC2 in cultured neurons increases the density of dendritic spines and excitatory synapses in a manner that requires the PDZ (PSD-95/Dlg/ZO-1)-binding C termini of TANC proteins. TANC1-deficient mice exhibit reduced spine density in the CA3 region of the hippocampus, but not in the CA1 or dentate gyrus regions, and show impaired spatial memory. TANC2 deficiency, however, causes embryonic lethality. These results suggest that TANC1 is important for dendritic spine maintenance and spatial memory, and implicate TANC2 in embryonic development.
Down Syndrome: From Understanding the Neurobiology to Therapy
Authors: Gardiner Katheleen , Herault Yann , Lott Ira T. , Antonarakis Stylianos E. , Reeves Roger H. , Dierssen Mara
Published: November 2010

Down syndrome (DS) is the most common example of a neurogenetic aneuploid disorder leading to mental retardation. In most cases, DS results from an extra copy of human chromosome 21 producing deregulated gene expression in brain that gives raise to subnormal intellectual functioning. Understanding the consequences of dosage imbalance attributable to trisomy 21 (T21) has accelerated because of recent advances in genome sequencing, comparative genome analysis, functional genome exploration, and the use of model organisms. This has led to new evidence-based therapeutic approaches to prevention or amelioration of T21 effects on brain structure and function (cognition) and has important implications for other areas of research on the neurogenomics of cognition and behavior.
IL-6- and NGF-Induced Rapid Control of Protein Synthesis and Nociceptive Plasticity via Convergent Signaling to the eIF4F Complex
Authors: Melemedjian Ohannes K. , Asiedu Marina N. , Tillu Dipti V. , Peebles Katherine A. , Yan Jin , Ertz Natalie , Dussor Gregory O. , Price Theodore J.
Published: November 2010

Despite the emergence of translational control pathways as mediators of nociceptive sensitization, effector molecules and mechanisms responsible for modulating activity in these pathways in pain conditions are largely unknown. We demonstrate that two major algogens, the cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6) and the neurotrophin nerve growth factor (NGF), which are intimately linked to nociceptive plasticity across preclinical models and human pain conditions, signal primarily through two distinct pathways to enhance translation in sensory neurons by converging onto the eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF) eIF4F complex. We directly demonstrate that the net result of IL-6 and NGF signaling is an enhancement of eIF4F complex formation and an induction of nascent protein synthesis in primary afferent neurons and their axons. Moreover, IL-6- and NGF-induced mechanical nociceptive plasticity is blocked by inhibitors of general and cap-dependent protein synthesis. These results establish IL-6- and NGF-mediated cap-dependent translation of local proteins as a new model for nociceptive plasticity.
Advances in Color Science: From Retina to Behavior
Authors: Conway Bevil R. , Chatterjee Soumya , Field Greg D. , Horwitz Gregory D. , Johnson Elizabeth N. , Koida Kowa , Mancuso Katherine
Published: November 2010

Color has become a premier model system for understanding how information is processed by neural circuits, and for investigating the relationships among genes, neural circuits, and perception. Both the physical stimulus for color and the perceptual output experienced as color are quite well characterized, but the neural mechanisms that underlie the transformation from stimulus to perception are incompletely understood. The past several years have seen important scientific and technical advances that are changing our understanding of these mechanisms. Here, and in the accompanying minisymposium, we review the latest findings and hypotheses regarding color computations in the retina, primary visual cortex, and higher-order visual areas, focusing on non-human primates, a model of human color vision.
Effect of smoking on the serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D depends on the assay employed
Authors: Grimnes Guri , Almaas Bjørg , Eggen Anne Elise , Emaus Nina , Figenschau Yngve , Hopstock Laila Arnesdatter , Hutchinson Moira Strand , Methlie Paal , Mihailova Albena , Sneve Monica , Torjesen Peter , Wilsgaard Tom , Jorde Rolf
Published: November 2010

The authors and the journal apologise for errors in the Introduction section of this paper published in the European Journal of Endocrinology 2010 vol 163 pp 339–348. Lines 11–14 of the Introduction section should read as follows:

This reflects the amount of vitamin D ingested from food (ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) or cholecalciferol (vitamin D3)) and the amount of vitamin D produced in the skin during ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure (vitamin D3)

and not as published.
Non‐response Bias in a Surveillance Program for Asbestos‐related Lung Cancer
Authors: Knoll Lars , Felten Michael K. , Ackermann Diana , Kraus Thomas
Published: November 2010

Non‐response Bias in a Surveillance Program for Asbestos‐related Lung Cancer: Lars Knoll, et al. Institute of Occupational Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Germany—

Objectives

In a cohort study non‐response might lead to a biased selection of cohort members and may affect the validity and reliability of the study outcome. To detect the possible effects of a non‐response bias on study results, we evaluated the reasons for non‐participation and the differences of respondents and non‐respondents in a health surveillance program for power industry workers, formerly exposed to asbestos.

Methods

A cohort of former power plant workers was formed to participate in an early detection program for lung cancer. We evaluated the results of 1,019 individuals (mean age 66 yr), of which 839 took part in at least one examination, 180 refused to participate or did not respond. To obtain the reasons for non‐response, we interviewed the cohort members by telephone or we requested them by mail to complete and return a brief questionnaire. Further sources of information were the communal registratio noffices and local health ofices.

Results

The main reasons for non‐participation were refusal (35%), illness (23.3%), death (16.7%) and dificulties with traveling (13.3%). It was impossible to make contact with or obtain an explanation from 11.7%. In a logistic regression model we demonstrated that advanced age and a long travel distance from the study center negatively affected the participation rate (p<0.001). There was no difference between respondents and non‐respondents regarding prevalence (p=0.559) and incidence of lung cancer (p=0.882).

Conclusion

We concluded that in our cohort non‐participation did not cause a selection bias in terms of lung cancer rates.
A demonstração do resultado econômico e sistemas de custeamento como instrumentos de evidenciação do cumprimento do princípio constitucional da eficiência, produção de governança e accountability no setor público: uma aplicação na Procuradoria-Geral do Município de São Paulo
Authors: Slomski Valmor , Camargo Guilherme Bueno de , Amaral Filho Antonio Carlos Cintra do , Slomski Vilma Geni
Published: November 2010

Este artigo discorre sobre a demonstração do resultado econômico e sistemas de custeamento como instrumentos de evidenciação do cumprimento do princípio constitucional da eficiência, produção de governança e accountability no setor público para a minimização da assimetria informacional entre o Estado e a sociedade. O referencial teórico tem por base os ensinamentos do seminal paper de Ronald Coase (1937), A natureza da firma, transpostos para a administração pública. A pesquisa é descritivo-quantitativa, e os dados, referentes ao exercício financeiro de 2006, foram coletados por meio de análise documental na Procuradoria-Geral do Município de São Paulo (PGMSP). A pesquisa empírica sugere que a demonstração do resultado econômico (R$ 184.836.115,11) possibilita a evidenciação do cumprimento do princípio constitucional da eficiência, ao comparar a receita econômica produzida (R$ 302.894.295,11) aos custos e despesas incorridos na sua prestação (R$ 118.058.180,00), e cria novo paradigma relacionado aos aspectos de governança e accountability na gestão pública, capaz de produzir informação à sociedade e ao administrador público para a tomada de decisões gerenciais
Contaminação do ar em salas cirúrgicas durante cirurgias de artroplastias total de quadril e joelho, hemiartroplastias e osteossínteses no centro cirúrgico de um hospital Brasileiro
Authors: Von Dolinger Elias José Oliveira , Brito Denise Von Dolinger de , Souza Gildo Moarcir de , Melo Geraldo Batista de , Gontijo Filho Paulo Pinto
Published: November 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: Avaliou-se o nível da contaminação do ar em cirurgias ortopédicas. MÉTODOS: O ar das salas cirúrgicas foi analisado microbiologicamente através da exposição de placas próximas à mesa cirúrgica por uma hora. RESULTADOS: Foram evidenciados valores acima do recomendado (369 UFC/m³) nas salas convencionais, assim como naquelas com ar ultralimpo. A contaminação foi predominantemente por Staphylococcus sp (86,9%). verificou-se um número alto de pessoas presentes no interior das salas cirúrgicas, assim como de abertura da porta. CONCLUSÕES: Os níveis de contaminação se apresentaram acima dos valores aceitos por agências reguladoras, representando risco para os pacientes.
Aplicações da espectroscopia de infravermelho com transformada de Fourier para especiação isomérica de Polibutadienos hidroxilados utilizados na síntese de polímeros Pu-Propelentes
Authors: Takahashi Marta F. K. , Polito Wagner L.
Published: November 2010

RESUMO: A distribuição dos isômeros configuracionais de polióis PBLH utilizados na fabricação de propelentes foi determinada por FTIR empregando-se a técnica de análise em solução e o método desenvolvido neste trabalho, envolvendo análise por filme líquido. Os resultados obtidos são concordantes entre si e com os fornecidos por análise ¹H NMR.
Cidadania e globalização: povos indígenas e agências multilaterais
Authors: Oliveira Filho João Pacheco de
Published: November 2010

No mundo atual a situação presente e as perspectivas de futuro dos povos indígenas são cada vez mais afetadas por projetos cuja elaboração e decisão não se dá apenas no âmbito dos Estados-Nacionais, mas que seguem igualmente um conjunto de normas, convenções e diretrizes definidas em foros internacionais e em agências multilaterais. Esse artigo focaliza justamente um desses instrumentos, a diretriz operacional de 1991 que estabelece as condições que devem ser seguidas em quaisquer projetos apoiados pelo Banco Mundial, realizando uma leitura crítica a partir do contexto histórico brasileiro e dos interesses e demandas indígenas aí manifestados. A análise a seguir aborda basicamente 4 pontos: a) mostra a insuficiência dos critérios socioculturais para identificação das populações indígenas, apontando os prejuízos trazidos pela noção de "vulnerabilidade" (associada freqüentemente à julgamentos sobre a primitividade e autenticidade) e termina por recomendar a retomada dos procedimentos de auto-classificação propostos na Convenção 169 (OIT, 1989); b) faz uma avaliação das condições de salvaguarda apresentadas e do risco de imagens e expressões ambíguas (como a de "mitigação"); c) procede a um exame das formas de participação previstas para os povos indígenas, bem como dos fatores que as podem limitar ou mesmo o anular; d) chama a atenção para o enorme risco de distanciamento entre as diretrizes e as práticas, sendo indicados alguns dos fatores que podem ser responsáveis por tal descompasso.
Comitê de Auditoria versus Conselho Fiscal Adaptado: a visão dos analistas de mercado e dos executivos das empresas que possuem ADRs
Authors: Furuta Fernanda , Santos Ariovaldo dos
Published: November 2010

Este estudo tem como objetivo obter a opinião dos executivos das empresas que operam no Brasil e negociam seus títulos no mercado norte-americano e dos analistas de mercado sobre a formação do Comitê de Auditoria ou do Conselho Fiscal adaptado. Para isso, foram aplicados questionários e realizadas entrevistas. A maioria dos executivos das empresas que formaram o Comitê de Auditoria apontaram que o nível de governança corporativa foi um dos fatores que mais influenciou na decisão de se formar um ou outro órgão. Por outro lado, a maioria dos executivos das empresas que formaram o Conselho Fiscal adaptado indicaram, além do nível de governança corporativa, o fato de ser auditada por uma das Big4 e a classificação da empresa conforme o valor agregado de mercado como fatores que influenciaram nas suas decisões. Não houve consenso de opiniões quanto ao Conselho Fiscal ser mais adaptável que o Comitê de Auditoria ao ambiente de negócios brasileiros, se as funções dos dois órgãos são distintas e se os custos associados à formação do Comitê de Auditoria são ou não relevantes. Assim, pode-se concluir que, em alguns aspectos, as percepções dos analistas de mercado e dos executivos das empresas são bastante diferentes.
Life history of the common pandora, Pagellus erythrinus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Actinopterygii: Sparidae) from southern Portugal
Authors: Coelho Rui , Bentes Luis , Correia Carla , Gonçalves Jorge M.S , Lino Pedro G , Monteiro Pedro , Ribeiro Joaquim , Erzini Karim
Published: November 2010

The common pandora, Pagellus erythrinus, is a commercially important seabream for coastal fisheries in the north and central eastern Atlantic. Age, growth and reproductive aspects of the southern Portuguese population were estimated by analysing 386 specimens ranging in total length (TL) from 12.0 to 44.8 cm. Ages were estimated by counting growth bands on otoliths and verified by marginal increment analysis, with specimens ranging in age from 1 to 21 years. The von Bertalanffy growth function was selected as the most adequate model to fit this species' growth, with the estimated parameters being Linf = 47.14 cm TL, k = 0.084 year-1 and t0 = -4.42 year. The gonads were analyzed macroscopically over a one-year period and the reproductive spawning season found to occur from March to July. The length at first maturity for males occurs at 17.58 cm TL and 1.15 years while females mature at slightly smaller sizes (17.29 cm TL) and younger ages (1.04 years). The results presented in this study are important for comparing this population's parameters with those of other populations of the same species occurring in other areas, as well as for future studies, for assessing eventual changes in population parameters over time.
Evolução do status de performance, índice de massa corpórea e distância percorrida no teste de caminhada de seis minutos em pacientes com câncer de pulmão avançado submetidos à quimioterapia
Authors: Machado Luciana , Saad Ivete Alonso Bredda , Honma Helen Naemi , Morcillo André Moreno , Zambon Lair
Published: November 2010

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito da quimioterapia sobre a condição física de pacientes com câncer de pulmão avançado. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 50 pacientes com câncer de pulmão não pequenas células nos estágios IIIB e IV e com status de performance segundo a escala do Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) entre zero e dois. Todos receberam quimioterapia com as drogas paclitaxel e derivados da platina e foram avaliados em três momentos (pré-quimioterapia, pós-quimioterapia e seis meses após o início do tratamento), nos quais a escala ECOG, o índice de massa corpórea (IMC) e a Distância percorrida no Teste de Caminhada de Seis minutos (DTC6) foram avaliados. RESULTADOS: Dos 50 pacientes incluídos, 14 foram a óbito, 5 foram excluídos do estudo por apresentar piora do status de performance, e 31 concluíram o seguimento de seis meses. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa para o IMC (p = 1,00, pré-quimioterapia vs. pós-quimioterapia; e p = 0,218, pré-quimioterapia vs. seis meses após) ou para a DTC6 entre os momentos de avaliação. O status de performance melhorou, principalmente com o aumento do número de pacientes assintomáticos após seis meses de acompanhamento (p = 0,031). CONCLUSÕES: O uso de quimioterapia teve um efeito benéfico no status de performance dos pacientes. Não houve alterações no IMC ou na DTC6 durante o período do estudo, o que pode sugerir a manutenção da condição física dos pacientes.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Advanced Practice Nurses Regarding Urinary Incontinence in Older Adult Women
Authors: Keilman Linda J. , Dunn Karen S.
Published: November 2010

This study examined the level of knowledge and the attitudes and perceptions of advanced practice nurses (APNs) regarding urinary incontinence (UI) in older adult women. UI is a common health issue for older adult women, and APNs are in a unique position as health care providers to prevent, diagnose, treat, and manage the condition successfully. Little is known about how well APNs were educated regarding UI, especially in older adult women. Purposive sampling was utilized to conduct a cross-sectional, descriptive, and correlational design study. Fifty-four APNs completed a questionnaire developed by the author based on the aging literature, advanced practice nursing competencies, and UI guidelines. Findings suggest that APNs generally have positive attitudes, perceptions, and knowledge of UI in women. However, participants had difficulty in applying this knowledge to the clinical setting: assessing, diagnosing, treating, and managing UI. More emphasis is needed in graduate nursing curriculums and in precepted clinical experiences regarding UI in women.
The Role of Obesity as a Modifying Factor in Patients Undergoing Non‐Surgical Periodontal Therapy
Authors: Zuza Elizangela P. , Barroso Eliane M. , Carrareto Ana Luiza V. , Pires Juliana R. , Carlos Iracilda Z. , Theodoro Letícia H. , Toledo Benedicto Egbert C.
Published: November 2010

Background: Earlier studies have shown an association between obesity and periodontitis, which is mediated by cytokine production. The aim of this study is to assess the role of obesity as a modifying factor on periodontal clinical parameters and on circulating proinflammatory cytokine levels in subjects undergoing non‐surgical periodontal treatment.

Methods: Twenty‐seven obese subjects and 25 normal‐weight subjects were enrolled in this study. Subjects in both groups had generalized chronic periodontitis. The periodontal parameters measured before and 3 months after non‐surgical periodontal therapy were: visible plaque index, bleeding gingival index, bleeding on probing, probing depth, and clinical attachment level. In addition, subjects underwent anthropometric measurements and serum analyses of fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐6, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and interferon‐γ.

Results: Periodontal therapy significantly decreased visible plaque index, bleeding gingival index, bleeding on probing, probing depth of 4 to 6 mm, probing depth ≥7 mm, clinical attachment level of 4 to 6 mm, and clinical attachment level ≥7 mm in both groups (P ≤0.05). Circulating proinflammatory cytokines significantly decreased in obese and normal‐weight subjects after periodontal treatment (P ≤0.05). However, interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐α levels remained higher in obese subjects 3 months after treatment (P ≤0.05).

Conclusion: Obesity does not seem to play a negative role by interfering in the improvement of the periodontal clinical response or decreasing circulating proinflammatory cytokine levels after periodontal treatment.
Population-Attributable Fractions of Axis I and Axis II Mental Disorders for Suicide Attempts: Findings From a Representative Sample of the Adult, Noninstitutionalized US Population
Authors: Bolton James M. , Robinson Jennifer
Published: November 2010

Objectives. We aimed to determine the percentage of suicide attempts attributable to individual Axis I and Axis II mental disorders by studying population-attributable fractions (PAFs) in a nationally representative sample.

Methods. Data were from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions Wave 2 (NESARC; 2004–2005), a large (N = 34 653) survey of mental illness in the United States. We used multivariate logistic regression to compare individuals with and without a history of suicide attempt across Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Axis I disorders (anxiety, mood, psychotic, alcohol, and drug disorders) and all 10 Axis II personality disorders. PAFs were calculated for each disorder.

Results. Of the 25 disorders we examined in the model, 4 disorders had notably high PAF values: major depressive disorder (PAF = 26.6%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 20.1, 33.2), borderline personality disorder (PAF = 18.1%; 95% CI = 13.4, 23.5), nicotine dependence (PAF = 8.4%; 95% CI = 3.4, 13.7), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PAF = 6.3%; 95% CI = 3.2, 10.0).

Conclusions. Our results provide new insight into the relationships between mental disorders and suicide attempts in the general population. Although many mental illnesses were associated with an increased likelihood of suicide attempt, elevated rates of suicide attempts were mostly attributed to the presence of 4 disorders.
Content Validation of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) Core Set for Stroke: The Perspective of Occupational Therapists
Authors: Glässel Andrea , Kirchberger Inge , Linseisen Elisabeth , Stamm Tanja , Cieza Alarcos , Stucki Gerold
Published: November 2010

Background. The “ICF Core Set for stroke” is an application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) and represents the typical spectrum of problems in the functioning of patients with stroke.Purpose. The objective of this study was to validate this ICF Core Set from the perspective of occupational therapists.Methods. In a three-round electronic mail survey using the Delphi technique, occupational therapists experienced in stroke treatment were asked about patients' problems, patients' resources, and aspects of environment they take care of. Two health professionals linked responses to the ICF.Findings. Sixty-nine occupational therapists in 21 countries named 1,747 concepts that occupational therapists treat in patients with stroke. These concepts were linked to 347 diferent ICF categories. Twenty-three concepts were linked to the ICF component Personal Factors.Conclusion. The content validity of the “ICF Core Set for stroke” was largely supported by occupational therapists.
Distribution of the Lathyrus L. 1753 (Fabales, Fabaceae) species in the Vojvodina Province
Authors: Boza Pal , Igic Ruzica , Krstic Borivoj , Mihailovic Vojislav , Anackov Goran , Vukov Dragana , Mikic Aleksandar
Published: November 2010

Most of the Lathyrus species of the Vojvodina Province arc cultivated for fodder. They are protein-containing herbs which easily recover after grazing. Some perennial species survive in grassland communities for ten years or more. Certain species are important melliferous plants. In the Vojvodina Province, they inhabit different habitats like forests and grasslands, dry and wet sites, thus showing a wide distribution range. Besides their floristic and vegetation aspects, their role as green and dry fodder crops should be emphasized.
Men's Sense of Humor and Women's Responses to Courtship Solicitations: An Experimental Field Study
Authors: Guéguen Nicolas
Published: November 2010

Producing humor might function as a fitness indicator associated with greater desirability during dating selection. A male confederate in a bar was instructed to tell (or not tell) funny jokes to two other male confederates. A few minutes later, when the second of two male confederates left, the first male confederate asked a female who was near his table and who had heard the funny jokes for her phone number. The previous expression of humor was associated with greater compliance with the male confederate's request and with a higher positive evaluation. The possible effects of humor are discussed from an evolutionary perspective.
Effects of competitive pentathlon training on the antioxidant defence components
Authors: Lewandowski Paweł , Hübner-Woźniak Elżbieta
Published: November 2010

Effects of competitive pentathlon training on the antioxidant defence components

Study aim: To assess the effects of training on the activities of antioxidant enzymes in erythrocytes and on the total plasma antioxidant status in competitive pentathletes.

Material and methods: A group of 10 senior male pentathletes (P) and of 10 sedentary male subjects (S) participated in the study. Blood was withdrawn from the antecubital vein in the morning, in the preprandial state. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR) and catalase (CAT) were determined in erythrocyte haemolisates, that of glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in whole blood haemolysate, and the total antioxidant status (TAS) in plasma.

Results: The activities of all enzymes were significantly (p<0.05 - 0.001) higher in P than in S group while no significant between-group difference was found for TAS.

Conclusions: The pronounced enzymatic antioxidative potential and oxidative stress defence observed in athletes practicing modern pentathlon may be attributed to their extensive training.
A Validity Argument Approach to Evaluating Teacher Value-Added Scores
Authors: Hill Heather C. , Kapitula Laura , Umland Kristin
Published: November 2010

Value-added models have become popular in research and pay-for-performance plans. While scholars have focused attention on some aspects of their validity (e.g., scoring procedures), others have received less scrutiny. This article focuses on the extent to which value-added scores correspond to other indicators of teacher and teaching quality. The authors compared 24 middle school mathematics teachers’ value-added scores, derived from a large ( N = 222) district data set, to survey- and observation-based indicators of teacher quality, instruction, and student characteristics. This analysis found teachers’ value-added scores correlated not only with their mathematical knowledge and quality of instruction but also with the population of students they teach. Case studies illustrate problems that might arise in using value-added scores in pay-for-performance plans.
How We Became Posthuman: Ten Years On An Interview with N. Katherine Hayles
Authors: Katherine Hayles N.
Published: November 2010

This interview with N. Katherine Hayles, one of the foremost theorists of the posthuman, explores the concerns that led to her seminal book How We Became Posthuman (1999), the key arguments expounded in that book, and the changes in technology and culture in the ten years since its publication. The discussion ranges across the relationships between literature and science; the trans-disciplinary project of developing a methodology appropriate to their intersection; the history of cybernetics in its cultural and political context (particularly the impact of Norbert Wiener's work); the changed role for psychoanalysis in the technoscientific age; and the altering forms of mediated ‘embodiment’ in the posthuman context.
Du collaboratif au social: l'avènement de la conversation
Authors: Poinsot Thomas , Duport François , Champloix Sylvain , Japiot Grégoire
Published: November 2010

Abstract La première partie de ce dossier présente le concept de réseau social et vise à donner des « repères pour un nouveau monde collaboratif », comme l’indique le titre de la contribution introductive. Quels sont les usages et les fonctions que l’on est en droit d’attendre d’une plateforme de réseau social ? Quelle est l’offre actuelle ? Comment animer la communauté professionnelle et comment se prémunir de certains dangers potentiels au cours de son utilisation quotidienne. Sommaire de cette première partie : Les réseaux sociaux d’entreprise : repères pour un nouveau monde collaboratif , par Thomas Poinsot. Animateur de communauté : un profil à géométrie variable , par François Duport. Limites et dangers des réseaux sociaux ouverts dans le cadre d'une utilisation professionnelle , par Sylvain Champloix. De Classmates.com aux réseaux sociaux sur mesure : petite histoire des réseaux , par Grégoire Japiot
La guerre de corée vue du côté coréen
Authors: Man-Ho Heo
Published: November 2010

Résumé La guerre de Corée contient de multiples sens pour le peuple coréen. Ce conflit, une des nombreuses initiatives coréennes pour la réunification, ne fit que permettre aux étrangers la justification d’une confrontation pour la poursuite de leurs propres objectifs. Cet article met en évidence les facteurs du conflit propres à la société coréenne et l’importance de l’institutionnalisation des relations intercoréennes pour la paix pérenne.
L'effort de réarmement des États-unis dans la première année du conflit coréen (1950-1951)
Authors: Carlier Claude
Published: November 2010

Résumé Le 25 juin 1950, les armées de la Corée du Nord attaquent la Corée du Sud. L’organisation des Nations unies demande aux pays membres de lui venir en aide. Les États-Unis acceptent et prennent la direction des opérations militaires. D’importantes mesures législatives et financières permettent d’entreprendre un important effort tant au niveau des effectifs que celui des matériels. En une année, soutenues par une puissante industrie, les forces armées américaines deviennent capables de mener un éventuel conflit à l’échelle mondiale ainsi qu’un conflit limité en Corée.
L'apprentissage de la contingence ou l'emploi de la puissance aérienne en corée (1950-1953)
Authors: de Lespinois Jérôme
Published: November 2010

Résumé Dans l’histoire de la guerre aérienne, l’épisode coréen occupe une place charnière entre la Seconde Guerre mondiale et la guerre du Vietnam car les matériels, les hommes et les doctrines sont encore ceux du précédent conflit tandis qu’apparaissent les ferments de la révolution provoquée par l’usage de l’aviation militaire à réaction. La guerre de Corée montre aussi les limites de la puissance aérienne elle-même dans le cadre d’un conflit localisé. Cette limitation apparaît comme un fait nouveau après la débauche de puissance aérienne engendrée par le conflit précédent.
La position stratégique de la chine dans la mer jaune et la compétition sino-américaine contemporaine dans la péninsule coréenne
Authors: S. Kim Young
Published: November 2010

Résumé Après la débâcle du système de la guerre froide dans les années 1990, la Chine a établi des relations diplomatiques avec la Corée du Sud et est entrée en relations compétitives avec les États-Unis. La « crise » causée par le problème nucléaire nord-coréen était une bonne occasion pour la Chine de prouver son influence sur la Corée du Nord. Dans la situation actuelle, après la signature des accords par les Six pays en février 2007, la Chine a espéré que son rôle et le système de conférence des six pays pourraient être maintenus à l’avenir, influer sur le processus de réunification de la Corée. Les Chinois pensaient, avec la stratégie de l’ access denial , pouvoir défendre et obtenir, en cas de d’hostilités avec les États-Unis, le contrôle de la mer Jaune en créant un barrage de mines et avec les missiles de portée courte et moyenne, en donnant leur soutien à la Corée du Nord et en maintenant les relations pacifiques avec la Corée du Sud. Les États-Unis pourraient regagner leur place avantageuse dans la péninsule Coréenne par les accords signés en février 2007 avec la Corée du Nord et en avril 2007 le FTA avec la Corée du Sud.
Les déplacements de populations comme outil de contre-insurrection : l'exemple du programme des hameaux stratégiques au sud-vietnam
Authors: Tenenbaum Élie
Published: November 2010

Résumé Le programme des hameaux stratégiques, développé au Sud-Vietnam par le gouvernement de Ngo Dinh Diem avec l’aide des États-Unis entre 1961 et 1963, consistait à déplacer les populations rurales du pays afin de les couper de l’influence de la guérilla communiste qui y sévissait. Cette entreprise, expression originale d’une problématique stratégique ancienne, constitue un épisode charnière dans le déroulement du conflit indochinois, en tant que véritable prodrome à la « guerre américaine ». Mais l’étude de ce programme soulève aussi des questions fondamentales concernant des enjeux actuels. La spécificité du programme tient à ce qu’il se place sous le double patronage de la contre-insurrection et du développement. Ces deux notions incarnent plus que jamais le souci des chancelleries occidentales, en ce moment même engagés dans des conflits insurrectionnels en divers endroits du globe où insécurité et fragilité économique se nourrissent mutuellement.
Análisis de estrategias de enfriamiento de raíles mediante simulación numérica con cálculo instantáneo del coeficiente de expansión térmica
Authors: Pernía-Espinoza A. , Martínez-de-Pisón F. J. , Martínez-de-Pisón E. , Blanco J.
Published: November 2010

En este artículo se describe una nueva metodología para simular el proceso de enfriamiento de un rail asimétrico Ri60, diseñado para tranvías, de una forma mucho más realista que lo realizado hasta ahora para perfiles largos de acero. La propuesta considera los efectos de la transformación de fases del acero y el enfriamiento por convección forzada. El proceso es simulado como un proceso termo-mecánico desacoplado. Primero, las curvas de enfriamiento del rail son obtenidas a partir de un modelo basado en dinámica de fluidos computacional y posteriormente introducidas en el modelo de elementos finitos para calcular las tensiones y desplazamientos. En esta segunda fase se calcula, para cada elemento finito y en cada iteración, el coeficiente de dilatación térmica lineal según el diagrama de curvas de enfriamiento continuo. Estos resultados permiten determinar las tensiones residuales al final del proceso con muy buena fidelidad respecto a los datos experimentales obtenidos en la planta industrial. La metodología permite estudiar con precisión dos tipos de estrategias de enfriamiento del Ri60 y seleccionar la más conveniente.
The central role of T-cell memory in Alzheimer’s disease vaccination
Authors: Giunta Brian , Ruscin Amanda , Salemi Jon , Wolfson Alan , Fernandez Francisco , Tan Jun
Published: November 2010

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common progressive neurodegenerative brain disease as well as the most common dementia among the elderly. In the future as the average lifespan continues to extend, the number of AD patients will continue to grow. Amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptides, in both soluble oligomeric, and insoluble forms, are key in the neuropathogenesis of AD and have thus been a therapeutic target for vaccines. Multiple Aβ vaccination strategies in animal models of AD have demonstrated a marked reduction in both amyloid burden and neurocognitive deficits. Due to the success of these studies, initial human clinical trials of an active Aβ vaccine were conducted. These were discontinued due to the development of meningoencephalitis in approximately 6% of the vaccinated AD patients. Studies examining the brains of Aβ-vaccinated patients developing meningoencephalitis implicate Aβ-reactive T-cell subsets as major components of this deleterious response to active Aβ vaccination. To subvert possible meningoencephalitis resulting from Aβ vaccination second generation of vaccines has been more recently developed. These however have met with little success in humans. To build on these findings, an understanding of the role of T-cells in vaccination against Aβ is presented in this review. Various methods of Aβ immunotherapy are reviewed including studies in both animal models and humans. Recent works suggest that Aβ-derived peptides delivered intranasally or transcutaneously results in effective clearance of Aβ plaques and improvement of cognitive function in animal models of AD. Moreover, undesired T-cell reactivity appeared to be considerably reduced compared with other active immunization strategies. In spite of the past clinical studies, these findings imply that Aβ vaccination may be both efficacious and safe depending route of delivery, adjuvant choice, and Aβ epitope administered.
Classifying Coding DNA with Nucleotide Statistics
Authors: Carels Nicolas , Frías Diego
Published: November 2010

In this report, we compared the success rate of classification of coding sequences (CDS) vs. introns by Codon Structure Factor (CSF) and by a method that we called Universal Feature Method (UFM). UFM is based on the scoring of purine bias (Rrr) and stop codon frequency. We show that the success rate of CDS/intron classification by UFM is higher than by CSF. UFM classifies ORFs as coding or non-coding through a score based on (i) the stop codon distribution, (ii) the product of purine probabilities in the three positions of nucleotide triplets, (iii) the product of Cytosine (C), Guanine (G), and Adenine (A) probabilities in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd positions of triplets, respectively, (iv) the probabilities of G in 1st and 2nd position of triplets and (v) the distance of their GC3 vs. GC2 levels to the regression line of the universal correlation. More than 80% of CDSs (true positives) of Homo sapiens (>250 bp), Drosophila melanogaster (>250 bp) and Arabidopsis thaliana (>200 bp) are successfully classified with a false positive rate lower or equal to 5%. The method releases coding sequences in their coding strand and coding frame, which allows their automatic translation into protein sequences with 95% confidence. The method is a natural consequence of the compositional bias of nucleotides in coding sequences.
Evolutionary Pattern of N-Glycosylation Sequon Numbers in Eukaryotic ABC Protein Superfamilies
Authors: Rao R. Shyama Prasad , Buus Ole Thomsen , Wollenweber Bernd
Published: November 2010

Many proteins contain a large number of NXS/T sequences (where X is any amino acid except proline) which are the potential sites of asparagine (N) linked glycosylation. However, the patterns of occurrence of these N-glycosylation sequons in related proteins or groups of proteins and their underlying causes have largely been unexplored. We computed the actual and probabilistic occurrence of NXS/T sequons in ABC protein superfamilies from eight diverse eukaryotic organisms. The ABC proteins contained significantly higher NXS/T sequon numbers compared to respective genome-wide average, but the sequon density was significantly lower owing to the increase in protein size and decrease in sequon specific amino acids. However, mammalian ABC proteins have significantly higher sequon density, and both serine and threonine containing sequons (NXS and NXT) have been positively selected—against the recent findings of only threonine specific Darwinian selection of sequons in proteins. The occurrence of sequons was positively correlated with the frequency of sequon specific amino acids and negatively correlated with proline and the NPS/T sequences. Further, the NPS/T sequences were significantly higher than expected in plant ABC proteins which have the lowest number of NXS/T sequons. Accordingly, compared to overall proteins, N-glycosylation sequons in ABC protein superfamilies have a distinct pattern of occurrence, and the results are discussed in an evolutionary perspective.
Comparative in Silico Analyses of Cpeb1–4 with Functional Predictions
Authors: Wang Xiang-Ping , Cooper Nigel G.F.
Published: November 2010

Background

Cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding proteins (Cpebs) are a family of proteins that bind to defined groups of mRNAs and regulate their translation. While Cpebs were originally identified as important features of oocyte maturation, recent interest is due to their prospective roles in neural system plasticity.

Results

In this study we made use of bioinformatic tools and methods including NCBI Blast, UCSC Blat, and Invitrogen Vector NTI to comprehensively analyze all known isoforms of four mouse Cpeb paralogs extracted from the national UniGene, UniProt, and NCBI protein databases. We identified multiple alternative splicing variants for each Cpeb. Regions of commonality and distinctiveness were evident when comparing Cpeb2, 3, and 4. In addition, we performed cross-ortholog comparisons among multiple species. The exon patterns were generally conserved across vertebrates. Mouse and human isoforms were compared in greater detail as they are the most represented in the current databases. The homologous and distinct regions are strictly conserved in mouse Cpeb and human CPEB proteins. Novel variants were proposed based on cross-ortholog comparisons and validated using biological methods. The functions of the alternatively spliced regions were predicted using the Eukaryotic Linear Motif resource.

Conclusions

Together, the large number of transcripts and proteins indicate the presence of a hitherto unappreciated complexity in the regulation and functions of Cpebs. The evolutionary retention of variable regions as described here is most likely an indication of their functional significance.
Expression of Metabolic, Tissue Remodeling, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammatory Pathways in Mammary Tissue during Involution in Lactating Dairy Cows
Authors: Piantoni Paola , Wang Ping , Drackley James K. , Hurley Walter L. , Loor Juan J.
Published: November 2010

Histological and functional changes associated with involution in the mammary gland are partly regulated by changes in gene expression. At 42 d postpartum, Holstein cows underwent a period of 5 d during which they were milked 1X daily until complete cessation of milking. Percutaneous mammary biopsies (n = 5/time point) were obtained on d 1, 5, 14, and 21 relative to the start of 1X milking for transcript profiling via qPCR of 57 genes associated with metabolism, apoptosis/proliferation, immune response/inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue remodeling. Not surprisingly, there was clear downregulation of genes associated with milk fat synthesis ( FASN, ACACA, CD36, FABP3, SCD) and lipid-related transcription regulation ( SREBF1, SREBF2). Similar to milk fat synthesis-related genes, those encoding proteins required for glucose uptake ( SLC2A1), casein synthesis ( CSN2, CSN3), and lactose synthesis ( LALBA) decreased during involution. Unlike metabolic genes, those associated with immune response and inflammation ( C3, LTF, SAA3), oxidative stress ( GPX1, SOD2), and pro-inflammatory cytokine signaling ( SPP1, TNF) increased to peak levels by d 14 from the start of 1X milking. These adaptations appeared to be related with tissue remodeling as indicated by upregulation of proteins encoding matrix proteinases ( MMP2), IGFBP3, and transcriptional regulation of apoptosis/cell proliferation ( MYC). In contrast, the concerted upregulation of STAT3, TGFB1, and TGFB1R during the first 14 d was suggestive of an activation of these signaling pathways probably as an acute response to regulate differentiation and/or mammary cell survival upon the onset of a marked pro-inflammatory and oxidative stress response induced by the gradual reduction in milk removal. Results suggest a central role of STAT3, MYC, P PARG, SREBF1, and SREBF2 in regulating concerted alterations in metabolic and cell survival mechanisms, which were induced partly via oxidative stressed-triggered inflammation and the decline in metabolic activity.
Computational Identification of Putative miRNAs fromFelis Catus
Authors: Sathyamurthy Ganesh , Swamy N. Ramachandra
Published: November 2010

microRNAs represent a class of noncoding small RNAs of approximately 20–23 nt length, which are evolutionarily conserved and play a vital role in various biological processes by either degrading or repressing mRNA translation. The Felis catus (cat) genome sequence has been published, and just revealed the number of miRNAs in the genome–-without mention of any further details on these miRNAs. This paper discusses an in silico comparative approach using all known sequences of vertebrate pre-miRNA as query sequence, and report 405 putative miRNAs from cat genome. We determine the identity values of pre-miRNAs and mature miRNAs besides statistical sequence characteristics. Interestingly, among 405 miRNAs–-90, 53 and 50 showed 100% identity to cattle, human and dog, respectively. Further, we have validated 6 miRNAs, whose identity are <85% with the query sequence and validated them using MiPred algorithm. We also identify 25 miRNA clusters in cat based on their homologs in other vertebrates. Most importantly, based on identities among pre-miRNA, mature miRNA, miRNA families and clusters, we observe that miRNAs from cat are more identical to cattle, than humans. Our results, therefore may add a new dimension to the studies related to the evolution of cat.