bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Actin in Action: Imaging Approaches to Study Cytoskeleton Structure and Function
Authors: McKayed Katey , Simpson Jeremy
Published: November 2013

The cytoskeleton plays several fundamental roles in the cell, including organizing the spatial arrangement of subcellular organelles, regulating cell dynamics and motility, providing a platform for interaction with neighboring cells, and ultimately defining overall cell shape. Fluorescence imaging has proved to be vital in furthering our understanding of the cytoskeleton, and is now a mainstay technique used widely by cell biologists. In this review we provide an introduction to various imaging modalities used to study focal adhesions and the actin cytoskeleton, and using specific examples we highlight a number of recent studies in animal cells that have advanced our knowledge of cytoskeletal behavior.
Second-Row Transition-Metal Doping of (ZniSi), i = 12, 16 Nanoclusters: Structural and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Jimenez-Izal Elisa , Matxain Jon , Piris Mario , Ugalde Jesus
Published: November 2013

TM@ZniSi nanoclusters have been characterized by means of the Density Functional Theory, in which Transition Metal (TM) stands from Y to Cd, and i = 12 and 16. These two nanoclusters have been chosen owing to their highly spheroidal shape which allow for favored endohedral structures as compared to other nanoclusters. Doping with TM is chosen due to their magnetic properties. In similar cluster-assembled materials, these magnetic properties are related to the Transition Metal-Transition Metal (TM-TM) distances. At this point, endohedral doping presents a clear advantage over substitutional or exohedral doping, since in the cluster-assembled materials, these TM would occupy the well-fixed center of the cluster, providing in this way a better TM-TM distance control to experimentalists. In addition to endohedral compounds, surface structures and the TS’s connecting both isomers have been characterized. In this way the kinetic and thermal stability of endohedral nanoclusters is predicted. We anticipate that silver and cadmium endohedrally doped nanoclusters have the longest life-times. This is due to the weak interaction of these metals with the cage, in contrast to the remaining cases where the TM covalently bond to a region of the cage. The open-shell electronic structure of Ag provides magnetic properties to Ag@ZniSi clusters. Therefore, we have further characterized (Ag@Zn12S12)2 and (Ag@Zn16S16)2 dimers both in the ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic state, in order to calculate the corresponding magnetic exchange coupling constant, J.
Evaluation of the Comet Assay for Assessing the Dose-Response Relationship of DNA Damage Induced by Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Wang Yan , Xu Chang , Du Li , Cao Jia , Liu Jian , Su Xu , Zhao Hui , Fan Fei-Yue , Wang Bing , Katsube Takanori , Fan Sai , Liu Qiang
Published: November 2013

Dose- and time-response curves were combined to assess the potential of the comet assay in radiation biodosimetry. The neutral comet assay was used to detect DNA double-strand breaks in lymphocytes caused by γ-ray irradiation. A clear dose-response relationship with DNA double-strand breaks using the comet assay was found at different times after irradiation (p < 0.001). A time-response relationship was also found within 72 h after irradiation (p < 0.001). The curves for DNA double-strand breaks and DNA repair in vitro of human lymphocytes presented a nice model, and a smooth, three-dimensional plane model was obtained when the two curves were combined.
Cloning, Characterization and Effect of TmPGRP-LE Gene Silencing on Survival of Tenebrio Molitor against Listeria monocytogenes Infection
Authors: Tindwa Hamisi , Patnaik Bharat , Kim Dong , Mun Seulgi , Jo Yong , Lee Bok , Lee Yong , Kim Nam , Han Yeon
Published: November 2013

Peptidoglycan recognition proteins (PGRPs) are a family of innate immune molecules that recognize bacterial peptidoglycan. PGRP-LE, a member of the PGRP family, selectively binds to diaminopimelic acid (DAP)-type peptidoglycan to activate both the immune deficiency (Imd) and proPhenoloxidase (proPO) pathways in insects. A PGRP-LE-dependent induction of autophagy to control Listeria monocytogenes has also been reported. We identified and partially characterized a novel PGRP-LE homologue, from Tenebrio molitor and analyzed its functional role in the survival of the insect against infection by a DAP-type PGN containing intracellular pathogen, L. monocytogenes. The cDNA is comprised of an open reading frame (ORF) of 990 bp and encodes a polypeptide of 329 residues. TmPGRP-LE contains one PGRP domain, but lacks critical residues for amidase activity. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed a broad constitutive expression of the transcript at various stages of development spanning from larva to adult. RNAi mediated knockdown of the transcripts, followed by a challenge with L. monocytogenes, showed a significant reduction in survival rate of the larvae, suggesting a putative role of TmPGRP-LE in sensing and control of L. monocytogenes infection in T. molitor. These results implicate PGRP-LE as a defense protein necessary for survival of T. molitor against infection by L. monocytogenes.
A Review of Microsatellite Markers and Their Applications in Rice Breeding Programs to Improve Blast Disease Resistance
Authors: Miah Gous , Rafii Mohd , Ismail Mohd , Puteh Adam , Rahim Harun , Islam Kh. , Latif Mohammad
Published: November 2013

Over the last few decades, the use of molecular markers has played an increasing role in rice breeding and genetics. Of the different types of molecular markers, microsatellites have been utilized most extensively, because they can be readily amplified by PCR and the large amount of allelic variation at each locus. Microsatellites are also known as simple sequence repeats (SSR), and they are typically composed of 1–6 nucleotide repeats. These markers are abundant, distributed throughout the genome and are highly polymorphic compared with other genetic markers, as well as being species-specific and co-dominant. For these reasons, they have become increasingly important genetic markers in rice breeding programs. The evolution of new biotypes of pests and diseases as well as the pressures of climate change pose serious challenges to rice breeders, who would like to increase rice production by introducing resistance to multiple biotic and abiotic stresses. Recent advances in rice genomics have now made it possible to identify and map a number of genes through linkage to existing DNA markers. Among the more noteworthy examples of genes that have been tightly linked to molecular markers in rice are those that confer resistance or tolerance to blast. Therefore, in combination with conventional breeding approaches, marker-assisted selection (MAS) can be used to monitor the presence or lack of these genes in breeding populations. For example, marker-assisted backcross breeding has been used to integrate important genes with significant biological effects into a number of commonly grown rice varieties. The use of cost-effective, finely mapped microsatellite markers and MAS strategies should provide opportunities for breeders to develop high-yield, blast resistance rice cultivars. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge concerning the linkage of microsatellite markers to rice blast resistance genes, as well as to explore the use of MAS in rice breeding programs aimed at improving blast resistance in this species. We also discuss the various advantages, disadvantages and uses of microsatellite markers relative to other molecular marker types.
Size-Dependent Cytotoxicity of Nanocarbon Blacks
Authors: Kong Huating , Zhang Yu , Li Yongjun , Cui Zhifen , Xia Kai , Sun Yanhong , Zhao Qunfen , Zhu Ying
Published: November 2013

In this study, we investigated the toxic effects of nanocarbon blacks (NCBs) with different sizes to mouse macrophage RAW264.7 cells. MTT and fluorescence-based LIVE assays demonstrated that NCBs uptake caused a size and dose-dependent growth inhibition to the cells. Optical microscopy observations and 99mTc radionuclide labeling techniques were used to investigate the cellular uptake of NCBs with different sizes qualitatively and quantitatively, respectively. Results showed that the cellular uptake amounts of NCBs increased with their increasing size. Large quantities of internal NCBs induced oxidative stress and nuclear damage in cells; these effects may be the critical factors involved in the cytotoxicity of NCBs. The implications associated with these findings are discussed.
Study of Hydrophilic Electrospun Nanofiber Membranes for Filtration of Micro and Nanosize Suspended Particles
Authors: Asmatulu Ramazan , Muppalla Harish , Veisi Zeinab , Khan Waseem , Asaduzzaman Abu , Nuraje Nurxat
Published: November 2013

Polymeric nanofiber membranes of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) blended with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) were fabricated using an electrospinning process at different conditions and used for the filtration of three different liquid suspensions to determine the efficiency of the filter membranes. The three liquid suspensions included lake water, abrasive particles from a water jet cutter, and suspended magnetite nanoparticles. The major goal of this research work was to create highly hydrophilic nanofiber membranes and utilize them to filter the suspended liquids at an optimal level of purification (i.e., drinkable level). In order to overcome the fouling/biofouling/blocking problems of the membrane, a coagulation process, which enhances the membrane’s efficiency for removing colloidal particles, was used as a pre-treatment process. Two chemical agents, Tanfloc (organic) and Alum (inorganic), were chosen for the flocculation/coagulation process. The removal efficiency of the suspended particles in the liquids was measured in terms of turbidity, pH, and total dissolved solids (TDS). It was observed that the coagulation/filtration experiments were more efficient at removing turbidity, compared to the direct filtration process performed without any coagulation and filter media.
Three New Germacrane-Type Sesquiterpenes with NGF-Potentiating Activity from Valeriana officinalis var. latiofolia
Authors: Chen Heng-Wen , Chen Li , Li Bin , Yin Hai-Long , Tian Ying , Wang Qiong , Xiao Yan-Hua , Dong Jun-Xing
Published: November 2013

Three new germacrane-type sesquiterpenoids, volvalerenal F (1), volvalerenal G (2) and volvalerenic acid D (3), along with five known compounds 4–8, were isolated from the CHCl3 soluble partition of the ethanol extract of Valeriana officinalis var. latiofolia. The structures of the new compounds were determined on the basis of spectroscopic evidence, including their 1D- and 2D-NMR spectra, as well as mass spectrometry. The eight germacrane-type sesquiterpenoids showed nerve growth factor (NGF) potentiating activity, which mediates the neurite outgrowth in PC 12D cells. This study intends to reveal the chemical basis of the use of V. officinalis var. latiofolia as a dietary supplement.
The Gastrointestinal Microbiome and Musculoskeletal Diseases: A Beneficial Role for Probiotics and Prebiotics
Authors: Vitetta Luis , Coulson Samantha , Linnane Anthony , Butt Henry
Published: November 2013

Natural medicines are an attractive option for patients diagnosed with common and debilitating musculoskeletal diseases such as Osteoarthritis (OA) or Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The high rate of self-medication with natural products is due to (1) lack of an available cure and (2) serious adverse events associated with chronic use of pharmaceutical medications in particular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and high dose paracetamol. Pharmaceuticals to treat pain may disrupt gastrointestinal (GIT) barrier integrity inducing GIT inflammation and a state of and hyper-permeability. Probiotics and prebiotics may comprise plausible therapeutic options that can restore GIT barrier functionality and down regulate pro-inflammatory mediators by modulating the activity of, for example, Clostridia species known to induce pro-inflammatory mediators. The effect may comprise the rescue of gut barrier physiological function. A postulated requirement has been the abrogation of free radical formation by numerous natural antioxidant molecules in order to improve musculoskeletal health outcomes, this notion in our view, is in error. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in different anatomical environments including the GIT by the epithelial lining and the commensal microbe cohort is a regulated process, leading to the formation of hydrogen peroxide which is now well recognized as an essential second messenger required for normal cellular homeostasis and physiological function. The GIT commensal profile that tolerates the host does so by regulating pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory GIT mucosal actions through the activity of ROS signaling thereby controlling the activity of pathogenic bacterial species.
Potential Degradation of Swainsonine by Intracellular Enzymes of Arthrobacter sp. HW08
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Yanhong , Hu Yanchun , Li Jincheng , Yang Guodong , Kang Danju , Li Haili , Wang Jianhua
Published: November 2013

Swainsonine (SW) is a toxin produced by locoweeds and harmful to the livestock industry. Degrading SW by Arthrobacter sp. HW08 was demonstrated as a promising way to deal with SW poisoning. However, it is unknown which part of the subcellular enzymes in Arthrobacter sp. HW08 is responsible for biodegrading SW and whether the metabolites are atoxic. In this study, intracellular and extracellular enzymes of Arthrobacter sp. HW08 were isolated and their enzyme activity was evaluated. The metabolites were fed to mice, and physiological and histological properties of the treated mice were investigated. The results showed that only intracellular enzyme of Arthrobacter sp. HW08 (IEHW08) could degrade SW efficiently. Compared with mice in SW treatment group, mice in SW + IEHW08 treatment group (1) increased their body weights; (2) showed higher number of platelets and lower number of white blood cells; (3) decreased the levels of creatinine, urea nitrogen, alanine transaminase and aspartate aminotransferase in serum; (4) reduced the number of vacuolated cells in cerebellum, liver and kidney. All these data demonstrate that IEHW08 was potentially safe for mice, while keeping the capacity of degrading SW. This study indicates a possible application of IEHW08 as an additive in the livestock industry to protect animals from SW poisoning.
Activités sociales et aménagements temporels [L’action des entreprises en faveur de la conciliation travail-vie familiale de leurs salariés]
Authors: Eydoux Anne , Gomel Bernard , Letablier Marie-Thérèse
Published: November 2013

Prenant appui sur l’enquête statistique «Familles et employeurs » de l’Institut national d’études démographiques, cet article analyse le rôle des employeurs dans le pourvoi aux salariés de prestations familiales, de services ou de facilités en matière de conciliation travail-famille, et questionne les orientations actuelles des politiques publiques qui encouragent les entreprises à intervenir davantage. Les auteurs montrent tout d’abord que les recherches françaises se sont longtemps désintéressées des pratiques des employeurs en la matière, précisément parce que, depuis le milieu du XXe siècle, la vie familiale des salariés a cessé d’être leur affaire avant qu’ils soient de nouveau sollicités pour s’en préoccuper. Aujourd’hui, les employeurs revendiquent leur rôle. L’article explore également les pratiques des entreprises en matière d’activités sociales et d’arrangements temporels, et interroge les complémentarités entre les politiques publiques et les pratiques des entreprises.
L’engagement des entreprises dans l’accueil des jeunes enfants [De nombreux enjeux et des partenariats public-privé complexes]
Authors: Daune-Richard Anne-Marie , Odena Sophie , Petrella Francesca
Published: November 2013

Cet article analyse les formes d’implication des entreprises dans l’accueil de la petite enfance et les enjeux qui en découlent pour la collectivité. S’appuyant sur les résultats d’une enquête exploratoire menée en 2006 et motivée par l’introduction de nouvelles mesures en 2004 en faveur de la participation des entreprises dans les crèches, les auteures mettent en exergue la diversité des partenariats public-privé existants et la transformation des modes de gestion des crèches. Des questions nouvelles émergent pour le développement de ce secteur et pour l’évolution des politiques publiques concernées, en particulier en termes de gouvernance interne des structures d’accueil, de contrôle de la qualité et de pilotage institutionnel.
Délinquance et socialisation familiale : une explication limitée
Authors: Roché Sebastian
Published: November 2013

Cet article vise à estimer quantitativement, à partir de données françaises, la taille des effets sur la délinquance de la socialisation par la famille par rapport à d’autres cadres sociaux. Il confirme que la famille oriente le comportement délinquant des enfants, mais point tant par sa structure qu’en raison du fonctionnement familial (entente et, surtout, supervision). Par ailleurs, est soulignée l’importance des variables extrafamiliales tels que l’insertion scolaire (qui constitue la principale variable explicative), le nombre de copains délinquants (une des trois variables les plus importantes), la perception des normes, ou encore les désordres autour du logement qui rendent compte d’une part de la variance. Toutes ces variables ont des effets propres et non réductibles à « la famille » puisqu’elles délivrent leurs effets après contrôle de la structure et même du fonctionnement familial. Il est en conséquence absolument nécessaire de considérer l’environnement physique et social des jeunes pour expliquer leur délinquance, qui ne peut voir ses facteurs limités à ceux impliquant directement la famille dans sa structure, ou même dans ses fonctionnements élémentaires, bien que ces derniers soient influents. La base empirique de ce travail est constituée d’enquêtes françaises utilisant l’International Self-Reported Delinquency Survey réalisées en 1999 dans les agglomérations de Grenoble et Saint-Étienne et, en 2003, dans l’agglomération de Grenoble.
Itinerario histórico de la identidad cultural y la nacionalidad cubana
Authors: Sarmiento Ramírez Ismael
Published: November 2013

RÉSUMÉ- Analyse du cheminement historique dans lequel prennent forme et se consolident l'identité culturelle et la nationalité cubaines à l'époque coloniale. Trajectoire qui est étudiée dans des perspectives différentes : en liaison étroite avec l'histoire de la culture matérielle, un champ très peu exploité par les historiens.
The Social Media Capital of the Universe: What does this Mean for Brazilian Tourists to the US?
Authors: Pennington-Gray Lori , Schroeder Ashley
Published: November 2013

Research has examined the role of social media during crises in various fields; however, there is a paucity of research in this area as it relates to tourism. Moreover, few studies have examined at-risk populations, such as tourists, in times of crisis. To assess the influence of risk perceptions on the likelihood to turn to various information sources in the event of a crisis during travel, a national survey of 483 Brazilian travelers to the US was conducted. Results indicated that there were two travel risk groups: low and high perceived risk. Travelers in the high perceived risk group were more likely to turn to the following information sources—television, text messages, friends/relatives, travel agents, local residents, consulate general, local law enforcement, Internet, social media, concierge, other tourists, newspaper, local tourism office, state tourism office, radio—in the event of a crisis during travel. Although the preferred crisis information sources varied somewhat by travel risk group, the most preferred sources were text messages, friends/relatives, and television.
Enteric fever burden in North Jakarta, Indonesia: a prospective, community-based study
Authors: Punjabi Narain H , Agtini Magdarina D , Ochiai R. Leon , Simanjuntak Cyrus H , Lesmana Murad , Subekti Decy , Oyofo Buhari A , Von Seidlein Lorenz , Deen Jacqueline , Shin Seonghye , Acosta Camilo , Wangsasaputra Ferry , Pulungsih Sri P , Saroso Santoso , Suyeti Suyeti , R Suharno , Sudarmono Pratiwi , Syarurachman Agus , Suwandono Agus , Arjoso Sumarjati , Beecham III H. James , Corwin Andrew L , Clemens John D
Published: November 2013

Introduction: We undertook a prospective community-based study in North Jakarta, Indonesia, to determine the incidence, clinical characteristics, seasonality, etiologic agent, and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of enteric fever. Methodology: Following a census, treatment centre-based surveillance for febrile illness was conducted for two-years. Clinical data and a blood culture were obtained from each patient. Results: In a population of 160,261, we detected 296 laboratory-confirmed enteric fever cases during the surveillance period, of which 221 (75%) were typhoid fever and 75 (25%)  were paratyphoid fever.  The overall incidence of typhoid and paratyphoid cases was 1.4, and 0.5 per thousand populations per year, respectively. Although the incidence of febrile episodes evaluated was highest among children under 5 years of age at 92.6 per thousand persons per year, we found that the burden of typhoid fever was greatest among children between 5 and 20 years of age. Paratyphoid fever occurred most commonly in children and was infrequent in adults. Conclusion: Enteric fever is a public health problem in North Jakarta with a substantial proportion due to paratyphoid fever. The results highlight the need for control strategies against enteric fever.
Prevalence of parasitic infections in HIV-positive patients in southern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Fekadu Sintayehu , Taye Kefyalew , Teshome Wondu , Asnake Solomon
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Intestinal parasitic infectionsare a major public health burden in tropical countries. Although all HIV/AIDS patients are susceptible to parasitic infections, those having lower immune status are at greater risk. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in patients living with HIV/AIDS. Methodology: This was a facility-based cross-sectional study. A total of 343 consecutively sampled HIV/AIDS patients from the HIV care clinic of Hawassa University Referral Hospital were included. Subjects were interviewed for demographic variables and diarrheal symptoms using structured questionnaires. Stool examinations and CD4 cells counts were also performed. Results: The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was 47.8% among HIV/AIDS patients;  single helminthic infection prevalence (22.7%) was higher than that the prevalence of protozoal infections (14.6%). About 54% of study participants had chronic diarrhea while 3.4% had acute diarrhea. The prevalence of intestinal parasites in patients with chronic diarrhea was significantly higher than in acute diarrhea (p <0.05). Non-opportunistic intestinal parasite infections such as Ascaris lumbricoides, Taenia spp., and hookworm were commonlyfound, regardless of immunestatus or diarrheal symptoms. Opportunistic and non-opportunistic intestinal parasitic infection were more frequent in patients with a CD4 count of <200/mm3 (OR=9.5; 95% CI: 4.64-19.47) when compared with patients with CD4 counts of >=500 cells/mm3. Conclusions: Intestinal parasitic infections should be suspected in HIV/AIDS-infected patients with advanced disease presenting with chronic diarrhea. Patients with low CD4 counts should be examined critically for intestinal parasites, regardless of diarrheal status.
Phenotypic characterization and colistin susceptibilities of carbapenem-resistant of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter spp.
Authors: Mohanty Srujana , Maurya Vijeta , Gaind Rajni , Deb Monorama
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobcter spp. are important nosocomial pathogens and carbapenem resistance is an emerging threat. Therapeutic  options for infections with these isolates include colistin. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of carbapenem resistance in P. aeruginosa and Acinetobacter spp. bloodstream isolates, phenotypically characterize the resistance mechanisms and evaluate the invitro activity of colistin. Methodology: Consecutive 145 (95 P.aeruginosa and 50 Acinetobacter spp.) non-repeat isolates were included. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed per CLSI guidelines. MIC for carbapenems and colistin was performed using Etest. Isolates showing reduced susceptibility or resistance to the carbapenems were tested for metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) production using imipenem-EDTA combined disk and MBL Etest. Results: Carbapenem resistance was observed in 40% P. aeruginosa and 66.0% Acinetobacter spp. Carbapenem-resistant (CA-R) isolates were significantly (p< 0.05) more frequently resistant to the other antibiotics than carbapenem-susceptible isolates. Approximately half of the CA-R strains were multidrug-resistant, and 3.1-5.5% were resistant to all antibiotics tested. MBL was found in 76.3% and 69.7% of the P. aeruginosa and Acinetobacter spp., respectively. Colistin resistance was observed in three (6.0%) Acinetobacter isolates and eight (8.4%)  P. aeruginosa. MIC50 for carbapenems were two to four times higher for MBL-positive compared to MBL-negative isolates, but no difference was seen in MIC for colistin. Conclusion: Carbapenem resistance was observed to be mediated by MBL in a considerable number of isolates.  Colistin is an alternative for infections caused by CA-R isolates; however, MIC testing should be performed whenever clinical use of colistin is considered.
Panton-Valentine leukocidin and biofilm production of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from respiratory tract
Authors: Cakir Aktas Nilufer , Erturan Zayre , Karatuna Onur , Karahasan Yagci Aysegul
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Staphylococcus aureus is one of the first bacteria colonizing in cystic fibrosis (CF) respiratory tract and different virulence factors are responsible for disease progression. It is not clear if CF S. aureus strains are more virulent than strains isolated from non-CF patients. Methodology: Biofilm production was detected by a modified tissue culture plate method, presence of genes encoding for Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) was investigated by a signal amplified sandwich hybridization assay and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns were detected by disk diffusion method. Results: Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates (n = 88) recovered from respiratory tract specimens in which 31 of them were from cystic fibrosis (CF) patients were analysed. Biofilm production was detected in 96.8% of CF isolates in which 32.3% exhibited strong positive phenotype and in 47.4% of non-CF isolates in which strong positive phenotype was not observed (p < 0.05). All CF isolates were methicillin susceptible, whereas 53.4% of non-CF isolates (n = 31) were methicillin resistant. No resistance was observed for vancomycin, chloramphenicol and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole in any of the isolates. PVL genes were detected only in two isolates (2.3%), one from each group, CF and non-CF, which both were methicillin susceptible Conclusion: Biofilm rather than PVL production appears to be an important virulence factor in CF patients.
Morale et réputation dans une perspective évolutionniste
Authors: Baumard Nicolas , Sperber Dan
Published: November 2013

Pourquoi les êtres humains se comportent-ils de manière morale ? Les théories évolutionnistes de la morale se partagent habituellement en deux camps, le camp altruiste selon lequel la morale a évolué pour le bien du groupe et dispose les individus à se sacrifier pour la collectivité, et le camp mutualiste selon lequel la morale a été sélectionnée parce qu’elle dispose les individus à respecter les intérêts des autres et ainsi à coopérer avec eux de manière mutuellement avantageuse. La théorie mutualiste semble suggérer que les individus ne sont pas motivés à agir moralement pour des raisons authentiquement morales. Sous une apparence désintéressée, ils chercheraient bien plutôt à améliorer leur réputation. Dans cet article, nous voudrions suggérer que la thèse mutualiste est compatible avec une motivation à agir moralement pour des raisons proprement morales.
Comment la honte vient aux enfants
Authors: Rochat Philippe
Published: November 2013

Lorsqu’on se réfère à la réputation, on parle de ce qui a trait à l’identité, car le calcul constitutif de la réputation est un calcul sur la valeur de l’identité d’un individu ou d’un groupe. En analysant le développement de l’identité chez l’enfant, cet article tente de mieux comprendre ce qui peut motiver l’enfant à développer un sens de la réputation, c’est-à-dire cette propension unique et exacerbée de notre espèce à se préoccuper du regard évaluateur d’autrui.
La réputation comme instrument social
Authors: Emler Nicholas , St. James Angela , Faucheux Amélie
Published: November 2013

L’idée que je souhaite défendre dans cet article est que la réputation est un instrument social propre à l’être humain et qui le distingue de toutes les autres espèces animales. Elle peut être utilisée d’une façon fiable comme instrument social, pour extraire de l’information concernant les autres et ce qu’on peut attendre d’eux. Quatre objections possibles à cette approche sont discutées ici : les conditions de la vie contemporaine, les remises en question de la notion de caractère en psychologie, la fiabilité du gossip (commérages) et la complexité des « calculs mentaux » mis en œuvre pour établir des jugements réputationnels valides.
La notation financière des États
Authors: Colonomos Ariel
Published: November 2013

La réputation est à plusieurs titres une dynamique essentielle de l’activité financière. Elle est une dimension fondamentale du rôle des agences de notation. Cet article identifie les rôles multiples que joue la réputation dans le mécanisme de la notation de la solvabilité des États. Il montre que la réputation s’articule autour de trois axes : le principe de surveillance, la fonction d’information et le rôle d’accréditation rempli par les agences. Ces trois dimensions sont historiquement contingentes. La dynamique de l’accréditation est aujourd’hui, parmi ces trois facettes de la réputation financière, celle qui prédomine. L’accréditation fonctionne selon un principe qui privilégie la stabilité et induit des effets temporels. Elle devient, dans ce contexte, un amortisseur temporel et social. Elle a davantage pour rôle de freiner des processus de changement que de provoquer des mutations. La réputation a dès lors un effet circonscrit.
La France en Amérique latine : quelle(s) stratégie(s) face aux reconfigurations régionales ?
Authors: Andréani Fabrice , Calmus Marie-Claire , Cohen Jim
Published: November 2013

Derrière une myriade d’initiatives diplomatiques, économiques et militaires, l’action de l’État français en Amérique latine semble souffrir d’un manque de cohérence générale, d’une « non stratégie ». Jean-Jacques Kourliandsky, chercheur à l’Institut de recherche internationale et stratégique (IRIS), nous a aidés à décrypter la situation.
Colombie : les dialogues de paix de la dernière chance ?
Authors: González Olga L.
Published: November 2013

Comment le gouvernement Santos en Colombie est-il passé de l’idée de revanche sur les Farc, hier en vogue, à celle de paix ? Olga L. González identifie les arguments des acteurs favorables au dialogue, et de ses opposants. Elle propose un bilan, un an après le début des négociations, des principaux points de l’agenda. Elle montre enfin pourquoi « la paix » restera un thème déterminant lors des élections de 2014.
Yasuní-ITT en Équateur : le projet peut-il encore atterrir au niveau local ?
Authors: Labarthe Sunniva
Published: November 2013

« Laisser le pétrole sous terre » : ces six dernières années, le gouvernement de la « révolution citoyenne » dirigé par Rafael Correa a promu à travers le globe l’initiative Yasuní-ITT comme la façon la plus « simple et révolutionnaire » de réaliser une transition énergétique équitable tant au niveau national qu’international – en intégrant le concept de « dette écologique ». Des rares curieux à être allés voir d’eux-mêmes comment l’idée se fait concrètement matière dans la forêt amazonienne, Sunniva Labarthe nous invite à reconsidérer notre acception de ce qui se joue effectivement aujourd’hui en Équateur sur le plan de la justice sociale et environnementale.
L'État régional du Bolívar au Venezuela. Reflet du désalignement entre le gouvernement chaviste et le mouvement ouvrier
Authors: Posado Thomas
Published: November 2013

Érigée un temps en avant-poste d’un « socialisme du XXI e siècle » capable de concilier démocratie et réformes radicales, la « révolution bolivarienne » inaugurée par Hugo Chávez a surtout été débattue pour ses conseils de quartier « participatifs » ou son anti-impérialisme. À la mort du Comandante, le déclin électoral du chavisme, bien que perceptible depuis des années, laisse alors perplexe. Loin des barrios hyperactifs et des « ministères du pouvoir populaire » de Caracas, les luttes décrites par Thomas Posado, au cœur des grandes usines « récupérées » et censées faire du Venezuela autre chose qu’un pétro-État, nous aident à mieux cerner la situation.
Les à-côtés du zapatisme contemporain. Réseaux de résistance et mobilisations dans le Chiapas des années 2000
Authors: Collombon Maya
Published: November 2013

Le néozapatisme a fait irruption sur les scènes mexicaine et mondiale il y a tout juste vingt ans, au moment opportun pour gâcher la fête de l’entrée en « libre échange » avec les États-Unis. « Indigène », « anticapitaliste », et avec comme porte-parole vedette un « sous-commandant » à la fois encagoulé et hypercultivé, le mouvement autour de l’Armée zapatiste de libération nationale (EZLN) a engendré beaucoup d’images, mais peu d’études sur ses rapports concrets avec les autres groupes et individus partageant au quotidien un même espace de lutte au Chiapas. À l’heure où la fascination pour l’EZLN est retombée, Maya Collombon fait le bilan.
Competition and Coordination
Authors: Bouwens Bram , Dankers Joost
Published: November 2013

Concurrence et coordination : vers une reconsidération des formes de coopération économique dans le monde entrepreneurial néerlandais (1900-2000) Cet article prend en compte trois formes de coopération entre les entreprises : les associations entre intérêts économiques, les cartels et les fusions-acquisitions. Il ressort de manière claire que ces différentes pratiques coopératives sont souvent mutuellement connectées et même apparaissent selon une certaine séquence. Cet article suggère une trame historique de la coordination dans l’univers des entreprises. Cette évolution est causée par des éléments à la fois économiques et institutionnels, mais semble aussi tenir à des facteurs organiques. Les associations d’intérêts économiques se développèrent souvent dans le cadre d’une plate-forme d’accord de cartel. Cela a pu favoriser et même engendrer une coordination ultérieure à travers des fusions-acquisitions. Cet article constitue, par ailleurs, un volet d’un plus large projet de recherche portant sur l’évolution du système des affaires aux Pays-Bas au cours du xx e  siècle ( www.bintproject.nl ). JEL Codes: D21, D22, D81, L13, L22, L41, L43.
Polysaccharide-Specific Memory B Cells Generated by Conjugate Vaccines in Humans Conform to the CD27+IgG+ Isotype–Switched Memory B Cell Phenotype and Require Contact-Dependent Signals from Bystander T Cells Activated by Bacterial Proteins To Differentiate into Plasma Cells
Authors: Clarke Edward T. , Williams Neil A. , Findlow Jamie , Borrow Ray , Heyderman Robert S. , Finn Adam
Published: November 2013

The polysaccharides (PS) surrounding encapsulated bacteria are generally unable to activate T cells and hence do not induce B cell memory (BMEM). PS conjugate vaccines recruit CD4+ T cells via a carrier protein, such as tetanus toxoid (TT), resulting in the induction of PS-specific BMEM. However, the requirement for T cells in the subsequent activation of the BMEM at the time of bacterial encounter is poorly understood, despite having critical implications for protection. We demonstrate that the PS-specific BMEM induced in humans by a meningococcal serogroup C PS (Men C)–TT conjugate vaccine conform to the isotype-switched (IgG+CD27+) rather than the IgM memory (IgM+CD27+) phenotype. Both Men C and TT-specific BMEM require CD4+ T cells to differentiate into plasma cells. However, noncognate bystander T cells provide such signals to PS-specific BMEM with comparable effect to the cognate T cells available to TT-specific BMEM. The interaction between the two populations is contact-dependent and is mediated in part through CD40. Meningococci drive the differentiation of the Men C–specific BMEM through the activation of bystander T cells by bacterial proteins, although these signals are enhanced by T cell–independent innate signals. An effect of the TT-specific T cells activated by the vaccine on unrelated BMEM in vivo is also demonstrated. These data highlight that any protection conferred by PS-specific BMEM at the time of bacterial encounter will depend on the effectiveness with which bacterial proteins are able to activate bystander T cells. Priming for T cell memory against bacterial proteins through their inclusion in vaccine preparations must continue to be pursued.
Perspectives of female leaders on sense of coherence and mental health in an engineering environment
Authors: Mayer Claude-Hélène , Van Zyl Llewellyn E.
Published: November 2013

Orientation: Positive organisational behaviour impacts strongly on various individual and work-related outcomes. Gender perspectives in this paradigm have not yet been comprehensively researched.Research purpose: This article explores female perspectives on mental health and sense of coherence. The aim is to promote an understanding of gender-related subjective perceptions on mental health and sense of coherence from an emic perspective.Motivation for the study: Limited research exists regarding the perceptions of positive leadership behaviour of female leaders within South African who experience unique challenges within the business environment and remain healthy at the same time.Research design, approach and method: Data from a mixed-method research study are presented, thereby providing insights into quantitative and in-depth qualitative empirical data from 15 female leaders. The study followed a single, embedded case study approach.Main findings: The main findings show that sense of coherence, mental health and gender awareness are connected. Female leaders with a high sense of coherence refer to gender in a positive or neutral way in a male-dominated work environment. The results emphasise individual and social health-promoting strategies in an organisation and the way personal life orientation contributes to individual (mental) health.Practical/managerial implications: Organisations need to focus more on promoting mental health in terms of gender and gender-related positive psychology frames.Contribution/value-add: This study contributes to the literature on gender within the positive organisational behaviour paradigm, presents recommendations for future research and highlights the practical implications for organisations.
The use of 1H-NMR Relaxation Times of Water Adsorbed on Soils to Monitor Environment Pollution
Authors: Grunin Leonid , Nikolskaya Ekaterina , Edwards John
Published: November 2013

Pursuing the goal to develop an express technique for the characterizing of forest ecology, this paper presents a description of the found dependence of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxation times of water in soils on the pollution caused by vehicle exhausts. Test measurements were made in Mari El Republic of Russia where wildwood areas located close to human activity are showing degradation, which has drastically intensified in the resent several years. Samples were collected at distances between 100 m to 1.1 km from the highway towards the direction of virgin forest assuming that their contamination level was naturally varied. The measured spin-spin NMR relaxation time of wetted samples showed a growth of more than 20% with the increase of distance from the pollution source. Here we try to explain this effect. As the conclusion, we propose to use the transverse relaxation time of moisturized soil as an indicator for the environment pollution monitoring.
Quantification of Plasma miRNAs by Digital PCR for Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Ma Jie , Li Ning , Guarnera Maria , Jiang Feng
Published: November 2013

Analysis of plasma microRNAs (miRNAs) by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) provides a potential approach for cancer diagnosis. However, absolutely quantifying low abundant plasma miRNAs is challenging with qPCR. Digital PCR offers a unique means for assessment of nucleic acids presenting at low levels in plasma. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of digital PCR for quantification of plasma miRNAs and the potential utility of this technique for cancer diagnosis. We used digital PCR to quantify the copy number of plasma microRNA-21-5p (miR-21–5p) and microRNA-335–3p (miR-335–3p) in 36 lung cancer patients and 38 controls. Digital PCR showed a high degree of linearity and quantitative correlation with miRNAs in a dynamic range from 1 to 10,000 copies/μL of input, with high reproducibility. qPCR exhibited a dynamic range from 100 to 1X107 copies/μL of input. Digital PCR had a higher sensitivity to detect copy number of the miRNAs compared with qPCR. In plasma, digital PCR could detect copy number of both miR-21–5p and miR-335–3p, whereas qPCR was only able to assess miR-21–5p. Quantification of the plasma miRNAs by digital PCR provided 71.8% sensitivity and 80.6% specificity in distinguishing lung cancer patients from cancer-free subjects.
Clinical Characteristics and Risk of Relapse for Patients with Stage I-II Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma Treated in First Line with Immunochemotherapy
Authors: Mercadal S. , Climent F. , Domingo-Doménech E. , Oliveira A. , Romagosa V. , de Sevilla A. Fernández , González-Barca E.
Published: November 2013

Diffuse large b-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is an aggressive and potentially curable lymphoma that presents itself as stage I-II in 30% of all cases. It is known that in these localized stages, 15-20% of patients treated without rituximab eventually relapse, but less data exist regarding rituximab era. We have analyzed clinico-pathological features and risk of relapse in 98 patients with I-II stage DLBCL in complete response (CR) or unconfirmed CR (CRu) after first-line treatment consisting of immunochemotherapy. Twelve patients (12.2%) eventually relapsed. Late relapse, more than two years after diagnosis, occurred in three patients, and early relapse, less than two years after diagnosis, was documented in nine patients. Median time from diagnosis to relapse was 0.61 years for patients with early relapse and 3.66 years for patients with late relapse. The second CR rate obtained was similar in the late and in early relapsing patients, being 33% versus 44% ( p = 0.072), respectively. Three-year overall survival (OS) was 22% for early relapsing patients and 33% for late relapsing patients ( p = 0.65). In conclusion, patients who are diagnosed with stage I-II DLBCL and achieve a CR/CRu with first line immunochemotherapy have a good prognosis. However, a proportion of patients relapse, and this is less frequent in patients treated with first line with immunochemotherapy. These patients have a poor prognosis.
Low-level jet characteristics over the Arctic Ocean in spring and summer
Authors: Jakobson L. , Vihma T. , Jakobson E. , Palo T. , Männik A. , Jaagus J.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Low-level jets (LLJ) are important for turbulence in the stably stratified atmospheric boundary layer, but their occurrence, properties, and generation mechanisms in the Arctic are not well known. We analysed LLJs over the central Arctic Ocean in spring and summer 2007 on the basis of data collected in the drifting ice station Tara. Instead of traditional radiosonde soundings, data from tethersonde soundings with a high vertical resolution were used. The Tara results showed a lower occurrence of LLJs (46 ± 8%) than many previous studies over polar sea ice. Strong jet core winds contributed to growth of the turbulent layer. Complex relationships between the jet core height and the temperature inversion top height were detected: substantial correlation (r = 0.72; p < 0.01) occurred when the jet core was above the turbulent layer, but when inside the turbulent layer there was no correlation. The most important forcing mechanism for LLJs was baroclinicity, which was responsible for the generation of strong and warm LLJs, which on average occurred at lower altitudes than other jets. Baroclinic jets were mostly associated with transient cyclones instead of the climatological air temperature gradients. Besides baroclinicity, cases related to inertial oscillations and gusts were detected. As many as 49% of the LLJs observed were associated with a frontal passage, which provides favourable conditions for baroclinicity, inertial oscillations, and gusts. Further research needs on LLJs in the Arctic include investigation of low-level jet streams and their effects on the sea ice drift and atmospheric moisture transport.
Field test of available methods to measure remotely SO2 and NOx emissions from ships
Authors: Balzani Lööv J. M. , Alfoldy B. , Beecken J. , Berg N. , Berkhout A. J. C. , Duyzer J. , Gast L. F. L. , Hjorth J. , Jalkanen J.-P. , Lagler F. , Mellqvist J. , Prata F. , van der Hoff G. R. , Westrate H. , Swart D. P. J. , Borowiak A.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Methods for the determination of ship fuel sulphur content and NOx emission factors from remote measurements have been compared in the harbour of Rotterdam and compared to direct stack emission measurements on the ferry Stena Hollandica. The methods were selected based on a review of the available literature on ship emission measurements. They were either optical (LIDAR, DOAS, UV camera), combined with model based estimates of fuel consumption, or based on the so called "sniffer" principle, where SO2 or NOx emission factors are determined from simultaneous measurement of the increase of CO2 and SO2 or NOx concentrations in the plume of the ship compared to the background. The measurements were performed from stations at land, from a boat, and from a helicopter. Mobile measurement platforms were found to have important advantages compared to the landbased ones because they allow to optimize the sampling conditions and to sample from ships on the open sea. Although optical methods can provide reliable results, it was found that at the state of the art, the "sniffer" approach is the most convenient technique for determining both SO2 and NOx emission factors remotely. The average random error on the determination of SO2 emission factors comparing two identical instrumental set-ups was 6%. However, it was found that apparently minor differences in the instrumental characteristics, such as response time, could cause significant differences between the emission factors determined. Direct stack measurements showed that about 14% of the fuel sulphur content was not emitted as SO2. This was supported by the remote measurements and is in agreement with the results of other field studies.