bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Signal transduction through the GTP-binding proteins Rac and Rho
Authors: Ridley Anne J.
Published: May 2013

Actin reorganization is an early response to many extra- cellular factors. In Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts, the Ras-related GTP-binding proteins Rho and Rac act as key signal trans- ducers in these responses: Rho is required for growth factor-induced formation of stress fibres and focal adhesions, whereas membrane ruffling is regulated by Rac proteins. Several proteins that act as GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) for Rho-related proteins have been iden- tified, and these could act either as targets or down-regu- lators of Rho or Rac in cells. In vitro, the GAP domain of pl90 has a striking preference for Rho as a substrate, and when microinjected into Swiss 3T3 cells it inhibits stress fibre formation but not membrane ruffling induced by growth factors. BcrGAP acts on Rac but not Rho in vitro, and specifically inhibits membrane ruffling in vivo. Finally, RhoGAP acts preferentially on the Rho-related protein G25K/Cdc42Hs in vitro, but can inhibit Rho-mediated responses in vivo. These results suggest that p!90, Bcr and RhoGAP play specific roles in signalling pathways through different Rho family members.

The mechanisms underlying Rho-regulated stress fibre formation have been investigated further by analysing the role of other signals known to be activated by lysophos- phatidic acid (LPA). Neither activation of PK-C, increased intracellular Ca2+, decreased cAMP levels or Ras activa- tion appear to mediate stress fibre formation. However, LPA stimulates tyrosine phosphorylation of a number of proteins, including the focal adhesion kinase, pp125FAK, and genistein, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, prevents this increase in tyrosine phosphorylation. Genistein also inhibits LPA- and Rho-induced stress fibre formation, implying that a tyrosine kinase lies downstream of Rho in this signal transduction pathway.
A developmental context for multiple genetic alterations in Wilms’ tumor
Authors: Feinberg Andrew P.
Published: May 2013

Wilms’ tumor has served as an example of Knudson’s two- hit hypothesis of recessive tumor genes, but the genetics has proven to be surprisingly complex. WTI, a tumor sup- pressor gene on llpl3, is mutated in only a small fraction of Wilms’ tumors, and a second chromosomal region, 11p15, harbors a second Wilms’ tumor gene also involved in other cancers. In addition, loss of genomic imprinting, or parental origin-specific gene expression of at least two genes, appears to be an early step in Wilms’ tumorigenesis and common cancers. Finally, genes on other chromosomes also play a role. I propose a model of Wilms’ tumori- genesis in which multiple genetic alterations act within a specific developmental context, accounting for the epi- demiological and pathological heterogeneity of Wilms’ tumor, as well as the tissue specificity of the tumor types arising from alterations in these genes.
Pax genes in development
Authors: Mansouri Ahmed , Stoykova Anastassia , Gruss Peter
Published: May 2013

The Pax gene family consists of nine members encoding nuclear transcription factors. Their temporally and spatially restricted expression pattern during embryogenesis suggests that they may play a key role during embryogenesis.

Direct evidence for the important role of the Pax genes during embryonic development has been demonstrated by the correlation of mouse developmental mutants and human syndromes with mutations in some Pax genes. To date three Pax genes have been shown to be mutated in undulated, Splotch and small eye, respectively. In man, Pax-3 is mutated in the Waardenburg syndrome, while in aniridia Pax-6 is mutated.
Mutations of the RET proto-oncogene in the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndromes and Hirschsprung disease
Authors: Smith Darrin P. , Eng Charis , Ponder Bruce A. J.
Published: May 2013

Distinct point mutations in the RET proto-oncogene are the cause of the inherited multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndromes (MEN 2), and the congenital gut disorder Hirschsprung disease. The site and type of these mutations suggests that they have differing effects on the activity of the receptor tyrosine kinase encoded by RET. The normal function of the RET receptor tyrosine kinase has yet to be determined. However, this has been investigated by the inactivation of the RET gene in transgenic mice. The devel-opmental abnormalities apparent in these mice, together with the observation that the major tissues affected in MEN 2 and Hirschsprung disease have a common origin in the embryonal neural crest, suggest that RET encodes a receptor for a developmental regulator involved in the genesis of a variety of neural crest derivatives, and in the organogenesis of the kidney.
Further Study on the Component Related to Ion Solvation of the Liquid Junction Potential between Electrolyte Solutions in Different Solvents
Authors: Izutsu Kosuke
Published: May 2013

The liquid junction potential between electrolyte solutions in different solvents has been studied, paying attention to why the values of the component related to ion solvation are actually much smaller than the values expected from the differences in ionic standard chemical potentials.
Debromination of 1,2-Bis(phenylseleno)benzene Dibromide
Authors: Saito Masaichi , Fujita Masahiro , Kanatomi Yoshihiko , Ishimura Kazuya
Published: May 2013

The reaction of bis(phenylseleno)benzene dibromide 1 with tribromoborane afforded bromoselenonium tetrabromoborate 2, which has a weak CT interaction between the two selenium atoms. Using Ag reagents provided the first examples of 5-phenylselenanthrenium salts.
Intrinsic Peroxidase-like Catalytic Activity of Hydrophilic Mesoporous Carbons
Authors: Huang Meng , Gu Jinlou , Elangovan S P , Li Yongsheng , Zhao Wenru , Iijima Toshio , Yamazaki Yasuo , Shi Jianlin
Published: May 2013

Hydrophilic mesoporous carbons with an Ia3d mesostructure were successfully synthesized by a combined hydrothermal treatment and nanocasting strategy. The resultant carbon products were found to possess intrinsic peroxidase-like activity, and this catalytic activity could be further enhanced by the introduction of carboxy groups on their surfaces.
Electrochemical Switching of Luminescence in Ru(II)-based Metallosupramolecular Polymer Device
Authors: Muronoi Yu , Zhang Jian , Higuchi Masayoshi , Maki Hideyuki
Published: May 2013

A Ru(II)-based metallosupramolecular polymer RuL1 was synthesized by complexation of a Ru(II) salt and phenylenebis(terpyridine). The long polymer chains were observed on a Si substrate using atomic force microscopy. Interestingly, a RuL1 film showed luminescence from the 3MLCT state of the Ru(II) complex moieties at room temperature by excitation at the resonant wavelength of the 1MLCT absorption. In addition, we fabricated a solid-state polymer device with a RuL1 film and achieved reversible switching of the luminescence by applying voltages (3 and −3 V) between indium tin oxide electrodes, which caused electrochemical redox between Ru(II) and Ru(III).
The Synthesis of a Heptacationic Porphyrin Trimer Connected with a Bipyridyl Linker on Axial Ligands
Authors: Shiragami Tsutomu , Mori Takahiro , Matsumoto Jin , Yasuda Masahide
Published: May 2013

Tetracationic porphyrin dimers and heptacationic trimers were prepared by the connection of a bipyridyl linker with axial ligands of antimony(V) porphyrin and/or phosphorus(V) porphyrin complexes. The measurement of cyclic voltammetry and absorption spectra showed that the electrochemically reduced species was a long-lived species of antimony(IV) porphyrin chromophore.
Palladium-catalyzed Direct Arylation Approach to Synthesize Naphthalene Bisimide-based Low-band-gap Polymers
Authors: Nakabayashi Kazuhiro , Mori Hideharu
Published: May 2013

A naphthalene bisimide (NBI)-based donor–acceptor (D–A) alternating low-band-gap polymer, which is an electron-transporting material, was successfully synthesized by palladium-catalyzed direct arylation. The obtained polymer had a relatively high molecular weight (Mn = 10000, Mw/Mn = 1.63), and 1H NMR analysis demonstrated that there were no structural defects.
Charge-carrier Transport in 1,4-Bis(phenylethynyl)benzene Derivatives Exhibiting Crystal Mesophases
Authors: Yatabe Tetsuo , Okumoto Hajime , Kawanishi Yuji , Inoue Takahito
Published: May 2013

1,4-Bis(phenylethynyl)benzene (BPB) derivatives with alkyl or alkoxy terminal chains were synthesized, and the mesomorphic and charge-carrier-transport properties were investigated. The BPB derivatives exhibited high charge-carrier mobilities in the crystal mesophase or crystal phase.
Syndromic and laboratory diagnosis of sexually transmitted infection: a comparative study in China
Authors:   The NIMH Collaborative HIV/STD Prevention Trial Group, Yin Yue-Ping , Wu Zunyou , Lin Chunqing , Guan Jihui , wen Yi , Li Li , Detels Roger , Rotheram-Borus Mary Jane
Published: May 2013

Summary:

The rate of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has soared in China. Yet, there is no universal consensus about the accuracy of the syndromic approach to STI management. This study aims to compare the syndromic approach with laboratory tests. A randomly selected sample of market vendors in eastern China (n = 4510) was recruited and assessed for the five most common STIs (Chlamydia trachomatis infection, gonorrhoea, genital herpes [herpes simplex type 2, HSV-2] syphilis and trichomoniasis [female only]). Symptom-based assessments made by physicians were compared with laboratory tests. Laboratory test results were used as the gold standard for the comparisons. The overall sensitivity of physician symptom-based assessment was about 10%; sensitivity was lower for males (1.6%) than for females (17.2%). The sensitivity of physician assessments for those who reported STI symptoms was relatively higher (36.7%) than for those who reported no symptoms (5.1%). More than half (54.37%) of the participants were diagnosed with STI of trichomoniasis. For the other four types of STIs, physicians correctly identified only <10% of the positive cases. The study detected a low sensitivity of STI diagnosis made by physicians in an Eastern city of China. The failure in the detection of asymptomatic patients remains one of the limitations of the syndromic approach.
Does chronic stress lead to increased rates of recurrences of genital herpes - a review of the psychoneuroimmunological evidence?
Authors: Goldmeier David , Garvey Lucy , Barton Simon
Published: May 2013

Summary:

It is a commonly expressed expert view that stress is associated with frequent recurrences of genital herpes (GH) but the evidence for this is poor and it is often asserted that stress is the result of GH rather than any other cause. We have reviewed the recent literature on this topic, restricting evidence to only prospective studies. We have further combined and integrated this evidence with both human and animal work in the psychoneuroimmunological field to come up with suggestive evidence that recurrence rates of GH are indeed associated with antecedent chronic stress/depression, whatever might be the cause. We further discuss the psychoneuroimmunological underpinning of the systemic features of the recurrent GH prodrome. Recommendations about holistic management of recurrent GH that include both pharmacological and psychological therapies are given.
Assessing the state of health research in the Eastern Mediterranean Region
Authors: Ismail S A , McDonald A , Dubois E , Aljohani F G , Coutts A P , Majeed A , Rawaf S
Published: May 2013

Summary

Member states across the Eastern Mediterranean region face unprecedented health challenges, buffeted by demographic change, a dual disease burden, rising health costs, and the effects of ongoing conflict and population movements – exacerbated in the near-term by instability arising from recent political upheaval in the Middle East. However, health actors in the region are not well positioned to respond to these challenges because of a dearth of good quality health research. This review presents an assessment of the current state of health research systems across the Eastern Mediterranean based on publicly available literature and data sources. The review finds that – while there have been important improvements in productivity in the Region since the early 1990s – overall research performance is poor with critical deficits in system stewardship, research training and human resource development, and basic data surveillance. Translation of research into policy and practice is hampered by weak institutional and financial incentives, and concerns over the political sensitivity of findings. These problems are attributable primarily to chronic under-investment – both financial and political – in Research and Development systems. This review identifies key areas for a regional strategy and how to address challenges, including increased funding, research capacity-building, reform of governance arrangements and sustained political investment in research support. A central finding is that the poverty of publicly available data on research systems makes meaningful cross-comparisons of performance within the EMR difficult. We therefore conclude by calling for work to improve understanding of health research systems across the region as a matter of urgency.
On testing the equality of mean vectors in high dimension
Authors: Srivastava Muni S.
Published: May 2013

In this article, we review various tests that have been proposed in the literature for testing the equality of several mean vectors. In particular, it includes testing the equality of two mean vectors, the so-called two-sample problem as well as that of testing the equality of several mean vectors, the so-called multivariate analysis of variance or MANOVA problem. The total sample size, however, may be less than the dimension of the mean vectors, and so usual tests cannot be used. Powers of these tests are compared using simulation.
Influence of informative sampling on dependence between variables
Authors: Aru Julia
Published: May 2013

In the case of informative sampling the sampling scheme explicitly or implicitly depends on the response variables. As a result, neither the sample distribution of response variables, nor the covariance matrix reects the corresponding population counterparts. In this paper, a relationship between multivariate sample and population distributions is used. Based on this, the influence of the informative sampling on the covariance matrix is investigated. It is shown that with inclusion probabilities in a multiplicative form with respect to study variables, the independence between variables is preserved in the sample. Further, it is shown that with inclusion probabilities exponentially depending on the study variables, the multivariate exponential family is invariant under sampling. The sample distribution belongs to the same family as the population distribution but with different parameters. The relationship between parameters is given. The multinomial and multivariate normal distributions are examined in more detail and the parameters of their sample distributions are derived explicitly. The effect of the informative sampling on the respective covariance matrices and correlations is analysed and illustrated in the examples.
Invariant Probabilistic Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Baucells Manel , Borgonovo Emanuele
Published: May 2013

In evaluating opportunities, investors wish to identify key sources of uncertainty. We propose a new way to measure how sensitive model outputs are to each probabilistic input (e.g., revenues, growth, idiosyncratic risk parameters). We base our approach on measuring the distance between cumulative distributions (risk profiles) using a metric that is invariant to monotonic transformations. Thus, the sensitivity measure will not vary by alternative specifications of the utility function over the output. To measure separation, we propose using either Kuiper's metric or Kolmogorov–Smirnov's metric. We illustrate the advantages of our proposed sensitivity measure by comparing it with others, most notably, the contribution-to-variance measures. Our measure can be obtained as a by-product of a Monte Carlo simulation. We illustrate our approach in several examples, focusing on investment analysis situations.

This paper was accepted by Peter Wakker, decision analysis.
Sale of Price Information by Exchanges: Does It Promote Price Discovery?
Authors: Cespa Giovanni , Foucault Thierry
Published: May 2013

Exchanges sell both trading services and price information. We study how the joint pricing of these products affects price discovery and the distribution of gains from trade in an asset market. A wider dissemination of price information reduces pricing errors and the transfer from liquidity traders to speculators. This effect reduces the fee that speculators are willing to pay for trading. Therefore, to raise its revenue from trading, a for-profit exchange optimally charges a high fee for price information so that only a fraction of speculators buy this information. As a result, price discovery is not as efficient as it would be with free price information. This problem is less severe if the exchange must compensate liquidity traders for a fraction of their losses.

This paper was accepted by Wei Xiong, finance.
Effect Identification in Comparative Effectiveness Research
Authors: Oakes Michael
Published: May 2013

The widespread adoption of electronic medical records means there are now vast
data resources available for comparative effectiveness research (CER). In concert with
conventional randomized controlled trials, CER holds great promise for advancing our
understanding of how different therapeutic treatments yield different health outcomes in
different settings and with different populations. But in a research culture fixated on
estimating correlations and p-values, the threat of misinterpretation of results and
improper CER inferences is troubling. Accordingly, this paper aims to shore up the
inferential foundations of CER by introducing the fundamentals of effect identification,
which is the process of identifying or teasing out empirically defensible causal effects
from competing explanations. Three primary requirements of effect identification –
positivity, exchangeability, and consistency -- are explained and simple exampled are
given. The take home message is that so-called big data from medical records may not
yield better or more useful results. Advances will come only when the right question is
addressed with the appropriate data and methods.
Ensuring Support for Research and Quality Improvement (QI) Networks: Four Pillars
of Sustainability — An Emerging Framework
Authors: Holve Erin
Published: May 2013

Multi-institutional research and quality improvement (QI) projects using
electronic clinical data (ECD) hold great promise for improving quality of care and
patient outcomes but typically require significant infrastructure investments both to
initiate and maintain the project over its duration. Consequently, it is important for
these projects to think holistically about sustainability to ensure their long-term
success. Four “pillars” of sustainability are discussed based on the experiences of EDM
Forum grantees and other research and QI networks. These include trust and value,
governance, management, and financial and administrative support. Two “foundational
considerations,” adaptive capacity and policy levers, are also discussed.
Development and Implementation of an Electronic Decision Support to Manage the
Health of a High-Risk Population: The enhanced Electronic Medical Record Aging Brain
Care Software (eMR-ABC)
Authors: Frame Amie , LaMantia Michael , Reddy Bynagari Bharath , Dexter Paul , Boustani Malaz
Published: May 2013

Introduction: Health care systems in the United States are transitioning from
volume-based purchasing models to value-based purchasing models that demand both
delivery of personalized care for each patient and cost-effective population health
management. The enhanced medical record for aging brain care (eMR-ABC) software is an
electronic decision support system that facilitates the management of a high-risk
population suffering from aging brain disorders such as dementia.Methods: Using the
lenses of the Complex Adaptive System and the Reflective Adaptive Process, we assembled
an interdisciplinary team of clinicians, health services researchers, and software
developers who designed, implemented, evaluated, and continuously modified the eMR-ABC
to meet the needs of care coordinators who manage the health of a targeted high-risk
population.Results: The eMR-ABC captures and monitors the cognitive, functional,
behavioral, and psychological symptoms of a registry of patients suffering from dementia
or depression as well as the burden of patients’ family caregivers. It provides decision
support to care coordinators to create a personalized care plan that includes
evidence-based nonpharmacological protocols, self-management handouts, and alerts of
medications with potentially adverse cognitive effects. The software’s built-in engine
tracks patient visits and on-demand functionality to generate population reports for
specified indicators.Discussion: Population health programs depend on data collection
and information systems with the ability to provide valuable and timely feedback on an
ongoing basis. Following these guidelines, the eMR-ABC was designed specifically to meet
the management needs of a high-risk population./
How to Ensure Disclosure of Information in Securities Markets Post-GFC
Authors: Latimer Paul
Published: May 2013

We are all affected by rising and falling prices in securities markets, whether as citizen, investor, adviser or manager. Stock prices feature in the daily media. Prices move up and down in response to the forces of supply and demand, and free markets sometimes result in booms and busts. Booms and busts usually lead to investigation by government, recommendations for change (‘reform’) and new regulation on top of the existing regulation. As a result, company law is heavy with sections requiring disclosure which have different histories and were passed at different times, often in response to the issues and the politics of the day. This results in piecemeal law-making, and disclosure laws which often overlap, duplicate and confuse. They also present problems of compliance, and provide opportunities for creative legal compliance, avoidance and non-disclosure. This paper commences with an examination of disclosure policy and theoretical considerations relevant to promoting information in securities markets. It examines the philosophy, reasons and purposes of disclosure of financial and non-financial information. It asks whether voluntary disclosure can be relied on to ensure that information will be disclosed to securities markets, or whether disclosure should be mandatory either by legislation or by ‘soft law’ in the rules of self-regulating organizations like stock exchanges. It addresses the problems with mandatory disclosure, including cost and conflict of interest, and concludes with a recommendation for a simple principles-based rule for disclosure of information in securities markets.
PI3K-Akt Signaling Activates mTOR-Mediated Epileptogenesis in Organotypic Hippocampal Culture Model of Post-Traumatic Epilepsy
Authors: Berdichevsky Yevgeny , Dryer Alexandra M. , Saponjian Yero , Mahoney Mark M. , Pimentel Corrin A. , Lucini Corrina A. , Usenovic Marija , Staley Kevin J.
Published: May 2013

mTOR is activated in epilepsy, but the mechanisms of mTOR activation in post-traumatic epileptogenesis are unknown. It is also not clear whether mTOR inhibition has an anti-epileptogenic, or merely anticonvulsive effect. The rat hippocampal organotypic culture model of post-traumatic epilepsy was used to study the effects of long-term (four weeks) inhibition of signaling pathways that interact with mTOR. Ictal activity was quantified by measurement of lactate production and electrical recordings, and cell death was quantified with lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release measurements and Nissl-stained neuron counts. Lactate and LDH measurements were well correlated with electrographic activity and neuron counts, respectively. Inhibition of PI3K and Akt prevented activation of mTOR, and was as effective as inhibition of mTOR in reducing ictal activity and cell death. A dual inhibitor of PI3K and mTOR, NVP-BEZ235, was also effective. Inhibition of mTOR with rapamycin reduced axon sprouting. Late start of rapamycin treatment was effective in reducing epileptic activity and cell death, while early termination of rapamycin treatment did not result in increased epileptic activity or cell death. The conclusions of the study are as follows: (1) the organotypic hippocampal culture model of post-traumatic epilepsy comprises a rapid assay of anti-epileptogenic and neuroprotective activities and, in this model (2) mTOR activation depends on PI3K-Akt signaling, and (3) transient inhibition of mTOR has sustained effects on epilepsy.
Mapping the Binding Site of TRPV1 on AKAP79: Implications for Inflammatory Hyperalgesia
Authors: Btesh Joan , Fischer Michael J.M. , Stott Katherine , McNaughton Peter A.
Published: May 2013

Inflammation causes hyperalgesia, an enhanced sensitivity to noxious stimuli. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), a thermo-TRP ion channel activated by painful levels of heat, is an important contributor because hyperalgesia is reduced when TRPV1 is either genetically deleted or pharmacologically blocked. Inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandin-E2 or bradykinin cause hyperalgesia by activating cellular kinases that phosphorylate TRPV1, a process that has recently been shown to rely on a scaffolding protein, AKAP79, to target the kinases to TRPV1. Here we use Förster resonance energy transfer, immunoprecipitation, and TRPV1 membrane trafficking experiments to identify a key region on AKAP79, between amino acids 326–336, which is responsible for its interaction with TRPV1. A peptide identical to this domain inhibited sensitization of TRPV1in vitro, and when covalently linked to a TAT peptide to promote uptake across the cell membrane the peptide inhibitedin vivoinflammatory hyperalgesia in mice. Critically, it did so without affecting pain thresholds in the absence of inflammation. These results suggest that antagonizing the TRPV1–AKAP79 interaction will be a useful strategy for inhibiting inflammatory hyperalgesia.
Interval Tuning in the Primate Medial Premotor Cortex as a General Timing Mechanism
Authors: Merchant Hugo , Pérez Oswaldo , Zarco Wilbert , Gámez Jorge
Published: May 2013

The precise quantification of time during motor performance is critical for many complex behaviors, including musical execution, speech articulation, and sports; however, its neural mechanisms are primarily unknown. We found that neurons in the medial premotor cortex (MPC) of behaving monkeys are tuned to the duration of produced intervals during rhythmic tapping tasks. Interval-tuned neurons showed similar preferred intervals across tapping behaviors that varied in the number of produced intervals and the modality used to drive temporal processing. In addition, we found that the same population of neurons is able to multiplex the ordinal structure of a sequence of rhythmic movements and a wide range of durations in the range of hundreds of milliseconds. Our results also revealed a possible gain mechanism for encoding the total number of intervals in a sequence of temporalized movements, where interval-tuned cells show a multiplicative effect of their activity for longer sequences of intervals. These data suggest that MPC is part of a core timing network that uses interval tuning as a signal to represent temporal processing in a variety of behavioral contexts where time is explicitly quantified.
Characterisation of oral and i.v. glucose handling in truncally vagotomised subjects with pyloroplasty
Authors: Plamboeck Astrid , Veedfald Simon , Deacon Carolyn F , Hartmann Bolette , Wettergren André , Svendsen Lars B , Meisner Søren , Hovendal Claus , Knop Filip K , Vilsbøll Tina , Holst Jens J
Published: May 2013

Objective

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1) is rapidly inactivated by dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), but may interact with vagal neurons at its site of secretion. We investigated the role of vagal innervation for handling of oral and i.v. glucose.

Design and methods

Truncally vagotomised subjects (n=16) and matched controls (n=10) underwent 50 g-oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)±vildagliptin, a DPP4 inhibitor (DPP4i) and isoglycaemic i.v. glucose infusion (IIGI), copying the OGTT without DPP4i.

Results

Isoglycaemia was obtained with 25±2 g glucose in vagotomised subjects and 18±2 g in controls (P<0.03); thus, gastrointestinal-mediated glucose disposal (GIGD) – a measure of glucose handling (100%×(glucoseOGTT−glucoseIIGI/glucoseOGTT)) – was reduced in the vagotomised compared with the control group. Peak intact GLP1 concentrations were higher in the vagotomised group. Gastric emptying was faster in vagotomised subjects after OGTT and was unaffected by DPP4i. The early glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide response was higher in vagotomised subjects. Despite this, the incretin effect was equal in both groups. DPP4i enhanced insulin secretion in controls, but had no effect in the vagotomised subjects. Controls suppressed glucagon concentrations similarly, irrespective of the route of glucose administration, whereas vagotomised subjects showed suppression only during IIGI and exhibited hyperglucagonaemia following OGTT. DPP4i further suppressed glucagon secretion in controls and tended to normalise glucagon responses in vagotomised subjects.

Conclusions

GIGD is diminished, but the incretin effect is unaffected in vagotomised subjects despite higher GLP1 levels. This, together with the small effect of DPP4i, is compatible with the notion that part of the physiological effects of GLP1 involves vagal transmission.
Aip regulates cAMP signalling and GH secretion in GH3 cells
Authors: Formosa R , Xuereb-Anastasi A , Vassallo J
Published: May 2013

Mutations in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor-interacting protein (AIP) gene have been linked to predisposition to pituitary adenomas. However, the mechanism by which this occurs remains unknown. AIP interacts with a number of interesting proteins, including members of the cAMP signalling pathway that has been shown to be consistently altered in pituitary tumours. The functional role of Aip was investigated using both over-expression and knock down of Aip in GH3 cells. cAMP signalling and its downstream effectors, including GH secretion, were then investigated. cAMP signalling was analysed using cAMP assays, cAMP-response element-promoter luciferase reporter assays, real-time PCR and finally secreted GH quantification. Over-expression of wild-type (WT)-Aip reduced forskolin-induced cAMP signalling at the total cAMP level, luciferase reporter activity and target gene expression, when compared with empty vector and the non-functional R304X mutant. Additionally, GH secretion was reduced in WT-Aip over-expressing GH3 cells treated with forskolin. Knock down of endogenous Aip resulted in increased cAMP signalling but a decrease in GH secretion was also noted. Inhibition of phosphodiesterase activity using general and selective inhibitors did not completely ablate the effect of Aip on forskolin-augmented cAMP signalling. A mechanism by which Aip acts as a tumour suppressor, by maintaining a low cAMP signalling and concentration, is suggested. Mutations of Aip render the protein incapable of such activity. This effect appears not to be mediated by the AIP–PDE interaction, suggesting the involvement of other interacting partners in mediating this outcome.
State of Toner Exposure of Workers Who Handle Toners
Authors: Matsuda Yuko , Harada Yuji , Tanno Yuji
Published: May 2013

State of Toner Exposure of Workers Who Handle Toners: Yuko MATSUDA, et al. Wellness Promotion Center, Labor Relations, Corporate Human Resources, Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd., Japan—

Objectives

The aim of this study was to ascertain the actual state of toner exposure of workers who handle toner.

Methods

Personal exposure measurements were conducted on workers handling toner in which the respirable dust (RD) concentration by work type was determined. Targeted work types consisted of “machine recycling”, “toner manufacturing”, “toner research/development”, “machine design/development” and “servicing.” The implementation period lasted from April 2003 to March 2011, and measurements were conducted annually. The measurement method conformed to the Japanese Working Environment Measurement Standards (new standards adopted starting in 2005).

Results

Comparing the RD concentrations for fiscal year 2003 by work, significant differences were found between machine recycling and the other four work types, as well as in toner manufacturing and the other four work types. Similarly, based on the new legislative standards applied in Japan from fiscal year 2005, significant differences were found between machine recycling and the other four work types, as well as in toner manufacturing and the other four work types.

Discussion

It is clear that workers engaged in machine recycling and toner manufacturing are exposed to toner, and that a certain level of exposure is continuing. Although it cannot be said that workers involved in toner research/development, machine design/development and servicing have no toner exposure, the concentration is of an extremely low level.

Conclusions

At present, toner exposure levels by work type can be divided into two groups—one consisting of machine recycling and toner manufacturing, and the other consisting of toner research/development, machine design/development and servicing.
Consumo de macronutrientes e ingestão inadequada de micronutrientes em adultos
Authors: Araujo Marina Campos , Bezerra Ilana Nogueira , Barbosa Flávia dos Santos , Junger Washington Leite , Yokoo Edna Massae , Pereira Rosangela Alves , Sichieri Rosely
Published: May 2013

OBJETIVO: Estimar o consumo de energia e nutrientes e a prevalência de ingestão inadequada de micronutrientes entre adultos brasileiros. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados dados do Inquérito Nacional de Alimentação da Pesquisa de Orçamento Familiar 2008-2009. O consumo alimentar foi avaliado por dois dias de registro alimentar não consecutivos. Um total de 21.003 indivíduos (52,5% mulheres) entre 20 e 59 anos de idade participou do estudo. A ingestão usual de nutrientes foi estimada pelo método proposto pelo National Cancer Institute. As prevalências de ingestão inadequada de micronutrientes foram obtidas pelo método da necessidade média estimada (EAR) como ponto de corte. Para manganês e potássio, a Ingestão Adequada (AI) foi usada como ponto de corte. A ingestão de sódio foi comparada com o nível de ingestão máximo tolerável (UL). A prevalência de inadequação da ingestão de ferro foi determinada por abordagem probabilística. Os dados foram analisados de acordo com a localização do domicílio (área urbana ou rural) e as macrorregiões do país. RESULTADOS: A média do consumo energético foi de 2.083 kcal entre os homens e 1.698 kcal entre as mulheres. Prevalências de inadequação maiores ou iguais a 70% foram observadas para cálcio entre os homens e magnésio, vitamina A, sódio em ambos os sexos. Prevalências maiores ou iguais a 90% foram encontradas para cálcio entre as mulheres e vitaminas D e E em ambos os sexos. Prevalências menores que 5% foram encontradas para ferro entre os homens e niacina para homens e mulheres. No geral, a prevalência de ingestão inadequada foi mais acentuada na área rural e na região Nordeste. CONCLUSÕES: O consumo de energia é maior entre indivíduos residentes em áreas urbanas e da região Norte. Os grupos com maior risco de ingestão inadequada de micronutrientes são as mulheres e os que residem na área rural e na região Nordeste.
Thoracic and heart biometrics of non-anesthetized agouti (Dasyprocta primnolopha Wagler, 1831) measured on radiographic images
Authors: Diniz Anaemilia das N. , Silva Júnior José R. da , Ambrósio Carlos E. , Sousa João M. de , Sousa Videlina R. de , Carvalho Maria A.M. , Nascimento Dayana M. , Alves Flávio R.
Published: May 2013

The agouti is a species intensively hunted throughout the Amazon and the semi-arid regions of northeastern Brazil. Considering the current trend in conservation management of wild species, the aim of this study was to determine the morphometric reference to the heart of agouti raised in captivity, based on thoracic and cardiac measurements in these animals. Thirty adult agoutis, 1 to 3 years of age, without clinical signs of cardiac disease were selected. The animals were physically restrained and radiographies in laterolateral (LL) and ventrodorsal (VD) recumbence were produced. The following measures were taken: the apicobasilar length of the heart (at the most cranial height of the Carina region to the heart apex) (AB), maximum width of the heart perpendicular to AB (CD), heart inclination angle (AIC), trachea inclination angle (AIT), distance from the right heart wall (DPTd), distance from the left heart wall (DPTe) and vertical depth of the thorax, and the ventral face of the vertebral column to the dorsal border of the sternum at the level of the trachea bifurcation (H). The ratios between AB/CD, AB/H and CD/H were also analyzed. To calculate the vertebral heart scale (VHS), the AB and CD measurements were laid over the thoracic vertebra starting at T4. Radiographic evaluation showed values consistent with those reported in small animals and some wild and exotic species. The main biometric values in the chest cavity and heart of agouti are arranged as follows: (1) The ratios between AB/H ratio and CD/H were not sensitive for identifying heart increases (p>0.05), while the ratio AB/CD was more sensitive in this identification (p<0.05); (2) AIC: 21.2±6.4º (mean between male and famale); (3) AIT for males and females: 9.93±3.23° and 8.4±3.94°; (4) DPTd and DPTe for males: 0.97±0.40cm and 0.7±0.30cm; (5) DPTd and DPTe for females: 1.12±0.42cm and 01.02±0.43cm; (6) VHS for males and females: 7.75±0.48v e 7.61±0.34v; (7) The caudal vena cava (CVC) was visualized dorsal-cranially and located right of the midline. The data obtained allowed the acquisition of the first reference values for biometry of the heart of agoutis, contributing to better understanding of cardiac morphology and identification of cardiomyopathy in these animals.
Systemic Functional Linguistics as appliable linguistics: social accountability and critical approaches
Authors: Matthiessen Christian M.I.M.
Published: May 2013

This article is concerned with the relationship between Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) and Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), and with SFL as a resource for socially accountable academic work. First it locates SFL within the general category of appliable linguistics (as opposed to either theoretical or applied linguistics), an approach to the study of language that is also designed to be socially accountable. Then, against the background of SFL, it traces the development first of Critical Linguistics and then of CDA, also identifying other influences incorporated within these traditions. Next, it compares CDA with other orientations within discourse analysis from the perspective of SFL, and proposes the notion of appliable discourse analysis (ADA). This leads to an overview of the dimensions of ADA, and finally to the question of the place of ADA within a general appliable linguistics.
Oligarquia e processos de oligarquização: o aporte de Michels à análise política contemporânea
Authors: Couto Cláudio Gonçalves
Published: May 2013

O termo "oligarquia" perdeu boa parte de sua utilidade analítica na Ciência Política em virtude de seu uso pouco rigoroso, tornando-se mais um adjetivo de aplicação subjetivamente orientada do que um conceito instrumentalizável para a pesquisa empírica e a reflexão teórica. Este artigo visa a retomar a contribuição fundamental de Robert Michels com vistas a obter maior clareza terminológica e serventia para a pesquisa empírica. A partir do conceito micheliano é possível elaborar um modelo institucional de análise que permita identificar e explicar processos de oligarquização de organizações sociais e políticas específicas, compreendendo sua lógica institucional de modo a entender como a vida coletiva organizada passa frequentemente a operar de um modo destoante dos princípios de legitimação válidos para determinadas coletividades capturadas por oligarquias.
Comprometimento organizacional e qualidade de vida no trabalho para pessoas com e sem deficiência
Authors: Carvalho-Freitas Maria Nivalda de , Silva Liliam Medeiros da , Farias Suelen Priscila Macedo , Oliveira Marcos Santos de , Tette Raissa Pedrosa Gomes
Published: May 2013

Esta pesquisa buscou verificar se o comprometimento organizacional e a satisfação com aspectos relacionados à qualidade de vida no trabalho apresentam resultados significativamente diferentes entre pessoas com (PcD) e sem deficiência (PsD). Participaram do estudo 150 trabalhadores, dos quais 75 com e 75 sem deficiência. Os grupos foram emparelhados conforme a função desempenhada e a organização de trabalho. Os instrumentos utilizados foram: Questionário de Comprometimento e de Qualidade de Vida no Trabalho. As respostas foram analisadas quantitativamente. Os resultados permitiram verificar que as PcD têm resultados de satisfação com fatores relacionados ao contexto de trabalho e de comprometimento similares aos das demais pessoas. No entanto, quando possuir uma deficiência se associa a condições sociais de desvantagem (menor renda familiar e primeiro emprego) e ao fato de ser do sexo masculino, as pessoas com deficiência tendem a ter um maior comprometimento instrumental.
Impacto de uma metodologia interativa de ergonomia de conscientização
Authors: Rothstein Joyce Ribeiro , Berndt Angélia , Moraes João Carlos de Souza , Lanferdini Fábio Juner
Published: May 2013

A ergonomia tem demonstrado avanços ao ser pró-ativa com a concepção de ambientes ergonomicamente adequados e com a conscientização do uso correto dos postos de trabalho. Nesse contexto, destaca-se o papel da ergonomia de conscientização, que confere ao indivíduo papel central no processo de educação em saúde. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o impacto de uma metodologia interativa de ergonomia de conscientização no conhecimento de trabalhadores de uma indústria têxtil. A amostra foi selecionada a partir do parecer do comitê de ergonomia da empresa. Participaram do estudo 328 trabalhadores (idade: 33,94±9,15 anos). Foram aplicadas intervenções interativas nos temas: Corpo Humano, Visão, Audição, Coluna vertebral, Membros Superiores e Membros Inferiores. O impacto da metodologia foi mensurado com a aplicação de um questionário criado e validado para o estudo. Para a comparação da pontuação antes e após as intervenções foi utilizado o teste t de Student (pareado), analisado no pacote estatístico SPSS 19.0 para Windows com significância de p<0,05. As questões qualitativas foram categorizadas, e a frequência das informações constatada. Observou-se aumento na pontuação total do questionário (8,07±1,03 para 8,76±0,50; p<0,001), o que demostra que o programa teve impacto na aquisição de conhecimento por parte dos trabalhadores em relação a segurança e saúde.
Proposta de atuação fisioterapêutica em uma criança com síndrome de Angelman, enfatizando o equilíbrio postural: estudo de caso
Authors: Visicato Livia Pessarelli , Costa Carolina Souza Neves da , Taube Oswaldo Luiz Stamato , Campos Ana Carolina de
Published: May 2013

A síndrome de Angelman (SA) é caracterizada por alterações neuromotoras como marcha atáxica e atraso na aquisição de habilidades motoras, porém são escassos os estudos investigando o efeito de intervenções aplicadas a essa população. O objetivo do estudo foi verificar o efeito de um treino de equilíbrio em uma criança com SA. Participou do estudo uma criança de nove anos de idade com diagnóstico de SA, sexo feminino. Foi aplicado um protocolo para treino de equilíbrio por oito semanas, com frequência de duas vezes por semana. O treino consistiu em atividades envolvendo equilíbrio estático sob diversas condições de dificuldade. Após o treino, a análise de biofotogrametria computadorizada do equilíbrio estático revelou redução do grau de oscilação, que passou de 38° para 13,78°. A pontuação na escala de Berg passou de 27 pontos, na avaliação, para 37 pontos na reavaliação. No teste Timed Up & Go, a criança realizou a tarefa em 15 segundos, na avaliação, e, na reavaliação, em 12 segundos. Em conjunto, os resultados sugerem que o treino favoreceu melhora no equilíbrio estático e dinâmico, bem como na mobilidade funcional.
Numerical investigation into the existence of limit cycles in two-dimensional predator–prey systems
Authors: Van der Hoff Quay , Greeff Johanna C. , Kloppers P. Hendrik
Published: May 2013

There has been a surge of interest in developing and analysing models of interacting species in ecosystems, with specific interest in investigating the existence of limit cycles in systems describing the dynamics of these species. The original Lotka–Volterra model does not possess any limit cycles. In recent years this model has been modified to take disturbances into consideration and allow populations to return to their original numbers. By introducing logistic growth and a Holling Type II functional response to the traditional Lotka–Volterra-type models, it has been proven analytically that a unique, stable limit cycle exists. These proofs make use of Dulac functions, Liénard equations and invariant regions, relying on theory developed by Poincaré, Poincaré-Bendixson, Dulac and Liénard, and are generally perceived as difficult. Computer algebra systems are ideally suited to apply numerical methods to confirm or refute the analytical findings with respect to the existence of limit cycles in non-linear systems. In this paper a class of predator–prey models of a Gause type is used as the vehicle to illustrate the use of a simple, yet novel numerical algorithm. This algorithm confirms graphically the existence of at least one limit cycle that has analytically been proven to exist. Furthermore, adapted versions of the proposed algorithm may be applied to dynamic systems where it is difficult, if not impossible, to prove analytically the existence of limit cycles.
Pleistocene Homo and the updated Stone Age sequence of South Africa
Authors: Dusseldorp Gerrit , Lombard Marlize , Wurz Sarah
Published: May 2013

We provide a brief overview of how the rich South African Pleistocene Homo fossil record correlates with the recently revised Stone Age sequence. The overview and correlation of the data is intended to highlight gaps in the record and/or our understanding thereof, and to stimulate interdisciplinary research and debate on the Homo fossil and archaeological records spanning the Pleistocene. As an updated resource we present a complete inventory of known Pleistocene fossil material assigned to the genus Homo, and, where possible, its association with archaeological material. We demonstrate that (1) anatomical changes are not necessarily paralleled by changes in the archaeological sequence currently based on a range of technocomplexes, (2) the early Homo record of South Africa probably differs from that of East Africa, (3) mid-Pleistocene Homo might be associated with the Earlier to Middle Stone Age transitional phase and (4) the fossil record associated with the Middle Stone Age has wide anatomical variation. Also, hiatuses in the fossil record, such as that associated with the appearance of early Khoe-San-like populations, do not show concurrent hiatuses in the archaeological record. Thus, for a broader understanding of the demographic history of South Africa during the Pleistocene, both sources of information should be considered in tandem.