bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversity, abundance and characterization of ruminal cysteine phytases suggest their important role in phytate degradation
Authors: Huang Huoqing , Zhang Rui , Fu Dawei , Luo Jianjie , Li Zhongyuan , Luo Huiying , Shi Pengjun , Yang Peilong , Diao Qiyu , Yao Bin
Published: November 2010

A novel class of cysteine phytase showing ability to degrade phytate has recently been isolated from rumen bacteria. To expand our knowledge of this enzyme class, a total of 101 distinct cysteine phytase gene fragments were identified from the ruminal genomic DNA of Bore goats and Holstein cows, and most of them shared low identities (< 50%) with known sequences. By phylogenetic analysis, these sequences were separated into three clusters that showed substantial diversity. The two most abundant cysteine phytase genes of goat rumens were cloned and their protein products were characterized. Four findings were revealed based on our results. (i) Compared with soil and water environment, where β‐propeller phytase is the most important phytate‐degrading enzyme, cysteine phytase is the major phytate‐degrading enzyme in the anaerobic ruminal environment. (ii) Cysteine phytase fragments in the rumen contents of goat and cow have the same diversity profile, although most of the sequences and their abundance differ in the two species. (iii) Each species has their respective high‐abundance genes, which may play major roles for phytate degradation. (iv) Compared with previously reported cysteine phytases that have pH optimum at 4.5, the pH optima of the two most abundant secreted goat cysteine phytases are 6.5 and 6.0, which are within the pH range found in the rumens. This study provides valuable information about the diversity, abundance and enzymatic properties of the ruminal cysteine phytases and emphasizes the important role(s) of these cysteine phytases probably in the terrestrial cycle of phosphorus.
Accounting Essays by Professor William W. Cooper: Revisiting in Commemoration of his Ninety‐Fifth Birthday
Authors: IJIRI YUJI , SUEYOSHI TOSHIYUKI
Published: November 2010

Over a career extending back to the late 1930s Professor William W. Cooper has published books and articles in the field of accounting, mathematics, operations research, management science, engineering, economics, public policy and the behavioural sciences, reflecting wide interdisciplinary scholarship. To commemorate his ninety‐fifth birthday in 2009, we publish excerpts from twelve of his accounting essays, together with postscripts adding to their historical context. We also publish Thomas Burns' Citation when Cooper was inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 1995 and Professor Cooper's Response to the Citation. Two appendixes list all Cooper's books and articles in the field of accounting, and the honours and awards he has received in a long and distinguished career.
Accounting‐Based Probabilistic Prediction of ROE, the Residual Income Valuation Model and the Assessment of Mispricing in the Swedish Stock Market
Authors: SKOGSVIK STINA , SKOGSVIK KENTH
Published: November 2010

Using Swedish stock market data, this study investigates whether an investment strategy based on publicly available accounting information can generate abnormal investment returns. The strategy involves two steps. First, an accounting‐based probabilistic prediction model of changes in the medium‐term book return on owners' equity (ROE) is estimated. Second, market expectations of changes in medium‐term ROE are assessed through observed stock prices and the residual income valuation model. Stock market positions over 36‐month holding periods are taken when the accounting‐based predictions of ROE and the market expectations differ. Over the period 1983–2003, the investment strategy generated values of Jensen's alpha corresponding to an average monthly excess return for a hedge position of up to 0.8% for a sample of manufacturing companies. In the main this hedge return was caused by strong positive returns to the long positions, and additional analyses show that the returns appear to have been affected by a positive market sentiment bias (i.e., positive ROE surprises being associated with stronger price reactions than negative ROE surprises) making out‐of‐sample inferences somewhat dubious. Furthermore, most of the investment returns accrued over holding periods up to around 1995, with no indications of market mispricing over the last third (1995–2003) of the investment period. The empirical results are consistent with market investors having become more sophisticated in their use of publicly available accounting information over time.
Material Misstatement of What? A Comment on Smieliauskas et al., ‘A Proposal to Replace “True and Fair View” with “Acceptable Risk of Material Misstatement” ’
Authors: ALEXANDER DAVID
Published: November 2010

This comment explores theoretical and practical aspects of the Smieliauskas et al. (2008), ‘A Proposal to Replace “True and Fair View” With “Acceptable Risk of Material Misstatement”, and develops the ideas outlined there. It is argued that these proposals are helpful, but theoretically incomplete. Theoretical developments relating to accounting aspects are offered, and proposed for others to take further. The pragmatic implications suggest difficulties in the operationalization of the ideas of the original paper in a world of multiple and inconsistent user needs.
The Effect of Availability of School and Distance to School on Children's Time Allocation in Ghana
Authors: Vuri Daniela
Published: November 2010

In this paper we present evidence on the impact of distance to school and school availability on households' decisions concerning time allocation of primary‐age children between work, schooling, and household chores activities using data from the Ghana Living Standard Survey 1998–99. Our results indicate that the increased and eased access to school has a well‐defined impact on children's time use. In particular, reducing the distance to primary school encourages children school attendance and reduces children work. Interestingly, the distance to middle school discourages children's work and boosts household chores activities. Moreover, the availability of both primary and middle schools has a positive effect on schooling decisions, and having a primary school nearby discourages household chores activity. Our results are robust to controlling for the endogeneity of school placement and per capita expenditures. We also find that household decisions about children's time use differ by children's sex, suggesting that girls may be differently responsive to policy measures aimed at reducing work and household chores activities and at increasing their school attendance.
Return Decisions of Undocumented Migrants: Do Network Effects Help the High‐skilled Overstay?
Authors: Coniglio Nicola D. , De Arcangelis Giuseppe , Serlenga Laura
Published: November 2010

This paper analyses the return plans of irregular migrants by stressing the role of individual skills and network effects. We propose a simple two‐period life‐cycle model that we test using individual‐level data on irregular migrants in Italy and on undocumented Mexicans in the USA. Our evidence shows that highly skilled clandestine migrants are more likely to return home than migrants with low or no skills. We argue this result is due to constraints imposed by the irregular status on migrants' ability to fully use human capital in the destination country. However, the presence of strong social networks may lessen this effect.
Household Membership Decisions of Adult Children: Exploring European Diversity
Authors: Chiuri Maria Concetta , Del Boca Daniela
Published: November 2010

Although several social, economic, and financial indicators point to a growing convergence among European countries, striking differences still emerge in the timing of leaving home for adult children. In our work, we explore the European diversity, analysing living arrangements of people 18–34 years old from 14 European countries. We use the European Community Household Panel survey and augment its informational content with intertemporal indicators of labor, housing, and marriage markets characteristics as well as proxy for welfare states and culture. We find that their role varies by group as well as within groups of European countries. Some important policy implications derive.
Temporary Extra Jobs for Immigrants: Merging Lane to Employment or Dead‐End Road in Welfare?
Authors: Thomsen Stephan L. , Walter Thomas
Published: November 2010

Temporary Extra Jobs provide subsidized employment for welfare recipients and are the most frequently used welfare‐to‐work program in Germany. We evaluate the effects of participation in this program on the employment chances of immigrant welfare recipients and contrast the findings with program effects for natives. Our results reveal that Temporary Extra Jobs fail to achieve their objective. The estimated effects are more adverse for natives, but the program is ineffective for participating immigrants either. Therefore, the program is a dead‐end road rather than a merging lane to regular employment both for natives and for immigrants.
The biophysical design of plant cuticles: an overview
Authors: Domínguez Eva , Heredia‐Guerrero José Alejandro , Heredia Antonio
Published: November 2010

The outer surfaces of epidermal cell walls are impregnated with an extracellular matrix called the cuticle. This composite matrix provides several functions at the interface level that enable plants to thrive in different habitats and withstand adverse environmental conditions. The lipid polymer cutin, which is the main constituent of the plant cuticle, has some unique biophysical properties resulting from its composition and structure. This review summarizes the progress made towards understanding the biophysical significance of this biopolymer with special focus on its structural, thermal, biomechanical, and hydric properties and relationships. The physiological relevance of such biophysical properties is discussed in light of existing knowledge on the plant cuticle.
Mutant α‐synuclein and aging reduce neurogenesis in the acute 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Peng Jun , Andersen Julie K.
Published: November 2010

Neurogenesis, the production of new neurons from less differentiated precursor cells, normally occurs in adult brains in the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the lateral ventricles and the subgranular zone of the hippocampal dentate gyrus. Neurogenesis declines with aging. In previous studies, neurogenesis was stimulated by 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine hydrochloride (MPTP) in young animals. In this study, we examined the effect of acute MPTP administration and mutant α‐synuclein A53T on neurogenesis and migration of newborn neurons in the aged (23‐month) vs. young (2‐month) rodent brain. Cell proliferation and neurogenesis were assessed via bromodeoxyuridine labeling and immunostaining for cell type‐specific markers. In the aged brain, neural precursor cells in the rostral SVZ retained the capacity for proliferation and migration in response to MPTP‐induced Parkinsonism, although the response is less robust than in younger animals. Furthermore, in transgenic mice that overexpress mutant α‐synuclein (A53T), brains examined day 21 after MPTP administration showed markedly decreased olfactory bulb and substantia nigra neurogenesis. Our data suggest that in addition to aging effects associated with decline in the number of newly generated cells, mutant α‐synuclein reduces MPTP‐induced neurogenesis. This could provide a novel therapeutic target for chronic brain repair in this condition.
Accelerated aging phenotype in mice with conditional deficiency for mitochondrial superoxide dismutase in the connective tissue
Authors: Treiber Nicolai , Maity Pallab , Singh Karmveer , Kohn Matthias , Keist Alexander F. , Ferchiu Florentina , Sante Lea , Frese Sebastian , Bloch Wilhelm , Kreppel Florian , Kochanek Stefan , Sindrilaru Anca , Iben Sebastian , Högel Josef , Ohnmacht Michael , Claes Lutz E. , Ignatius Anita , Chung Jin H. , Lee Min J. , Kamenisch York , Berneburg Mark , Nikolaus Thorsten , Braunstein Kerstin , Sperfeld Anne‐Dorte , Ludolph Albert C. , Briviba Karlis , Wlaschek Meinhard , Scharffetter‐Kochanek Karin
Published: November 2010

The free radical theory of aging postulates that the production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species is the major determinant of aging and lifespan. Its role in aging of the connective tissue has not yet been established, even though the incidence of aging‐related disorders in connective tissue‐rich organs is high, causing major disability in the elderly. We have now addressed this question experimentally by creating mice with conditional deficiency of the mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase in fibroblasts and other mesenchyme‐derived cells of connective tissues in all organs. Here, we have shown for the first time that the connective tissue‐specific lack of superoxide anion detoxification in the mitochondria results in reduced lifespan and premature onset of aging‐related phenotypes such as weight loss, skin atrophy, kyphosis (curvature of the spine), osteoporosis and muscle degeneration in mutant mice. Increase in p16INK4a, a robust in vivo marker for fibroblast aging, may contribute to the observed phenotype. This novel model is particularly suited to decipher the underlying mechanisms and to develop hopefully novel connective tissue‐specific anti‐aging strategies.
The Wnt/beta‐catenin pathway is activated during advanced arterial aging in humans
Authors: Marchand Alexandre , Atassi Fabrice , Gaaya Amira , Leprince Pascal , Le Feuvre Claude , Soubrier Florent , Lompré Anne‐Marie , Nadaud Sophie
Published: November 2010

Aging is the main risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, but the associated molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. The Wnt signaling pathway was shown to be induced during aging in muscle and in the skin, but the regulation and role of Wnt signaling in the aged vessel have not yet been addressed. While screening for age‐related changes in gene expression in the intima/media of human mammary arteries, we observed that the expression of frizzled 4 (Fzd4), a Wnt receptor, and of several targets of the Wnt/β‐catenin/TCF signaling pathway [Wnt‐inducible secreted protein 1 (WISP1), versican, osteopontin (SPP1), insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 2 (IGFBP‐2), and p21] were modified with age, suggesting an activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. In contrast, we did not observe any regulation of forkhead transcription factor (FoxO) target genes. Beta‐catenin‐activating phosphorylation at position Ser675 was increased in aging mammary arteries, confirming the activation of this pathway. We confirmed in vitro that Wnt3a or Wnt1 treatment of human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) induced β‐catenin phosphorylation at Ser675 and WISP1, SPP1, and IGFBP‐2 expression. In vitro, Wnt treatment induced proliferation and cyclin D1 expression in VSMC from young (6 weeks old) rats but not in cells from older rats (8 months old), even though low‐density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 6 and β‐catenin phosphorylation, and β‐catenin nuclear translocation demonstrated β‐catenin activation in both cell types. Beta‐catenin silencing demonstrated that Wnt induction of cyclin D1 expression is β‐catenin dependent. Altogether, our data show that the Wnt/β‐catenin/TCF pathway is activated in aging human mammary artery cells, but fails to induce the proliferation of aging vascular cells.
Does no‐till farming induce water repellency to soils?
Authors: Blanco‐Canqui Humberto
Published: November 2010

Soil water repellency (SWR) is an intrinsic and dynamic soil property that can influence soil hydrology and crop production. Although several land use systems have been shown to induce water repellency in soil, the specific effects of no‐till cropping on SWR are poorly understood. This article reviews the impacts of no‐till on SWR and identifies research needs. No‐till cropping generally induces 1.5 to 40 times more SWR than conventional tillage, depending on soil type. This may result from near‐surface accumulation of hydrophobic organic C compounds derived from crop residues, microbial activity and reduced soil disturbance. While large SWR may have adverse impacts on soil hydrology and crop production, the level of SWR under no‐till relative to conventional tillage may contribute to aggregate stabilization and intra‐aggregate C sequestration. More research is needed to discern the extent and relevance of no‐till induced SWR. This includes: (1) further assessment of SWR under different tillage systems across a wide range of soil textures and climates, (2) comparison of the various methods for measuring SWR over a range of water contents, (3) inclusion of SWR in routine soil analysis and its use as a parameter to evaluate management impacts, (4) assessment of the temporal and spatial changes in SWR under field conditions, (5) further assessment of the impacts of the small differences in SWR between no‐till and conventionally tilled soils on crop production, soil hydrology and soil C sequestration, and (6) development of models to predict SWR for different tillage systems and soils.
Comparison of the molecular interactions of two antagonists, MEN16132 or icatibant, at the human kinin B2receptor
Authors: Meini S , Bellucci F , Catalani C , Cucchi P , Giolitti A , Giuliani S , Quartara L , Rotondaro L , Zappitelli S , Maggi CA
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEIcatibant is a well‐known kinin B2receptor antagonist currently used for angiooedema attacks. MEN16132 is a non‐peptide B2receptor antagonist, more potent and long lasting than icatibant in different models. Here we studied the reasons for these differences between the two antagonists.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHRate of reversibility (over about 3 h) of the functional receptor blockade exerted by the antagonists was compared (inositol phosphates accumulation assay) in CHO cells expressing the human B2receptor and in human synovial cells. Antagonist pretreated cells were washed with medium and the time taken to restore bradykinin (BK) response measured. Antagonist affinity was measured by radioligand binding to wild type and mutated B2receptors.

KEY RESULTSRecovery of BK‐induced responses was slower in cells pretreated with MEN16132 than in those treated with icatibant. The affinity of icatibant (for the [3H]‐BK or the B2receptor antagonist [3H]‐MEN11270 binding site) was compared to that of MEN16132 using a panel of point‐mutated receptors with mutations located at the transmembrane regions of the B2receptor, previously shown to decrease MEN16132 high affinity interaction. No consistent decrease of icatibant affinity was observed. From the different affinity of MEN16132 derivatives at wild type and W86A (transmembrane 2 region) receptors, and by evaluating its antagonist profile at the D266A/D284A double mutant receptor, a model of the MEN16132‐B2receptor complex is proposed.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSMEN16132 dissociated from the B2receptor compartment more slowly than icatibant and interacted at a deeper level in transmembrane regions of the receptor.
Lipoamide or lipoic acid stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes via the endothelial NO synthase‐cGMP‐protein kinase G signalling pathway
Authors: Shen Weili , Hao Jiejie , Feng Zhihui , Tian Chuan , Chen Weijun , Packer Lester , Shi Xianglin , Zang Weijin , Liu Jiankang
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Metabolic dysfunction due to loss of mitochondria plays an important role in diabetes, and stimulation of mitochondrial biogenesis by anti‐diabetic drugs improves mitochondrial function. In a search for potent stimulators of mitochondrial biogenesis, we examined the effects and mechanisms of lipoamide and α‐lipoic acid (LA) in adipocytes.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Differentiated 3T3‐L1 adipocytes were treated with lipoamide or LA. Mitochondrial biogenesis and possible signalling pathways were examined.

KEY RESULTS Exposure of 3T3‐L1 cells to lipoamide or LA for 24 h increased the number and mitochondrial mass per cell. Such treatment also increased mitochondrial DNA copy number, protein levels and expression of transcription factors involved in mitochondrial biogenesis, including PGC‐1α, mitochondrial transcription factor A and nuclear respiratory factor 1. Lipoamide produced these effects at concentrations of 1 and 10 µmol·L−1, whereas LA was most effective at 100 µmol·L−1. At 10 µmol·L−1, lipoamide, but not LA, stimulated mRNA expressions of PPAR‐γ, PPAR‐α and CPT‐1α. The potency of lipoamide was 10–100‐fold greater than that of LA. Lipoamide dose‐dependently stimulated expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and formation of cGMP. Knockdown of eNOS (with small interfering RNA) prevented lipoamide‐induced mitochondrial biogenesis, which was also blocked by the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor, ODQ and the protein kinase G (PKG) inhibitor, KT5823. Thus, stimulation of mitochondrial biogenesis by lipoamide involved signalling via the eNOS‐cGMP‐PKG pathway.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our data suggest that lipoamide is a potent stimulator of mitochondrial biogenesis in adipocyte, and may have potential therapeutic application in obesity and diabetes.
Governance of sustainability at airports: Moving beyond the debate between growth and noise
Authors: Boons Frank , Van Buuren Arwin , Teisman Geert
Published: November 2010

Airports increasingly are contested areas where many sustainability aspects are relevant. Especially in cases where airport development and urban development coincide, the actors involved are engaged in decision‐making processes where only a small subset of the broader scope of sustainability issues is discussed. In this article we use a conceptual framework building on complexity theory to shed light on this phenomenon and its consequences for the case of Schiphol Airport in The Netherlands. First, we analyze the systemic causes for the narrow debate about sustainability. We then use the framework to recommend ways forward to broaden the debate about the sustainable development of airports by creating the institutional space for a reflexive and collaborative dialogue.
Democracy and Pornography: On Speech, Rights, Privacies, and Pleasures in Conflict
Authors: Grebowicz Margret
Published: November 2010

This article investigates the intersections of secrecy/interiority, the state, and speech/expression, and their implications for the rights of women. I propose a critique of commercial pornography that reanimates MacKinnon's claim that pornography and American democracy are in a relationship of mutual reinforcement, and incorporates poststructuralist (Lyotard, Baudrillard, and Butler) commitments to secrecy and unintelligibility, as well as their role in the production of pleasure.
Measuring firing costs: The case for direct methods
Authors: FREYENS Benoît Pierre
Published: November 2010

Firing costs, together with the legislative and regulatory frameworks governing employment relations, are often blamed for poor labour market outcomes. Yet, research on the economic impacts of these costs is inconclusive. There has been much focus on functional assumptions and the significance of parameters, but very little on the quality and precision of the cost measures upon which most results hinge. Reviewing the indirect and direct measurement methods commonly used, the author argues that direct quantitative methods, rarely used in research, are much needed to complement more popular indirect measures. A recent survey experiment conducted in Australia illustrates this point.
On‐the‐job training in Europe: Determinants and wage returns
Authors: ALBERT Cecilia , GARCÍA‐SERRANO Carlos , HERNANZ Virginia
Published: November 2010

Using data from the European Community Household Panel on six countries over the period 1995–2001, this article investigates the determinants of workers’ participation in training activities and the effects of training on wages. Based on measures of four distinct training types, the authors find that while OLS estimates yield significant wage returns to training for nearly all of the countries, fixed‐effects estimations show returns to be not statistically different from zero. This suggests that wage returns to training might be overstated due to failure to take adequate account of the correlation of training with confounding factors that affect wages.
maps2WinBUGS: a QGIS plugin to facilitate data processing for Bayesian spatial modeling
Authors: Solymosi Norbert , Wagner Sara E. , Maróti‐Agóts Ákos , Allepuz Alberto
Published: November 2010

For Bayesian spatial modeling, GeoBUGS, part of WinBUGS (OpenBUGS) is a widely used tool. The map format used by GeoBUGS differs from the standard formats used in geographical information systems (GIS). The QGIS plugin, maps2WinBUGS, helps the user prepare maps and tabular data for use in GeoBUGS. With this tool, one can obtain adjacency lists, convert maps, and merge back the results of model runs with a source map in QGIS. Through script wizards, users can generate R scripts from their own data (QGIS supported vector format map, attribute data) using different models.
Magneto-elastic oscillations and the damping of crustal shear modes in magnetars
Authors: Gabler Michael , Cerdá-Durán Pablo , Font José A. , Müller Ewald , Stergioulas Nikolaos
Published: November 2010

In a realistic model of magneto-elastic oscillations in magnetars, we find that crustal shear oscillations, often invoked as an explanation of quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs) seen after giant flares in soft gamma-ray repeaters (SGRs), are damped by resonant absorption on time-scales of at most 0.2 s, for a lower limit on the dipole magnetic field strength of 5 × 1013 G. At higher magnetic field strengths (typical in magnetars) the damping time-scale is even shorter, as anticipated by earlier toy models. We have investigated a range of equations of state and masses and if magnetars are dominated by a dipole magnetic field, our findings exclude torsional shear oscillations of the crust from explaining the observed low-frequency QPOs. In contrast, we find that the Alfvén QPO model is a viable explanation of observed QPOs, if the dipole magnetic field strength exceeds a minimum strength of about several times 1014–1015 G. Then, Alfvén QPOs are no longer confined to the fluid core, but completely dominate in the crust region and have a maximum amplitude at the surface of the star.
Spectral evolution of Fermi/GBM short gamma-ray bursts
Authors: Ghirlanda G. , Ghisellini G. , Nava L. , Burlon D.
Published: November 2010

We study the spectral evolution of 13 short-duration gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) detected by the Gamma Burst Monitor onboard Fermi. We study spectra resolved in time at the level of 2–512 ms in the 8 keV–35 MeV energy range. We find a strong correlation between the observed peak energy Epeak and the flux P within individual short GRBs. The slope of the Epeak∝Ps correlation for individual bursts ranges between ∼0.4 and ∼1. There is no correlation between the low-energy spectral index and the peak energy or the flux. Our results show that in our 13 short GRBs, Epeak evolves in time tracking the flux. This behaviour is similar to what found in the population of long GRBs and it is in agreement with the evidence that long GRBs and (the still few) short GRBs with measured redshifts follow the same rest-frame Epeak–Liso correlation. Its origin is most likely to be found in the radiative mechanism that has to be the same in both classes of GRBs.
The evolution of proton pump inhibitors for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Friedlander Elizabeth A. , Pallentino Julia , Miller Sally K. , VanBeuge Susan S.
Published: November 2010

Purpose: This article reviews the diagnosis and current treatment options for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) available to nurse practitioners, with a focus on advances in proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy.

Data Sources: Review of scientific literature and clinical management guidelines for GERD treatment and PPI therapy from the PubMed database, Google Scholar, and other World Wide Web resources.

Conclusions: A number of safe and effective treatment options exist for GERD. Recent developments in PPI technology may begin to address unmet needs in PPI therapy.

Implications for Practice: GERD is commonly diagnosed and treated by nurse practitioners in the primary care setting. Acid suppression therapy is the primary medical therapy for GERD. PPI therapy provides symptomatic relief of heartburn and regurgitation, as well as effective healing and maintenance of erosive esophagitis. Newer PPIs lengthen the duration of acid suppression and allow for more flexibility in dosing, which may improve medication adherence and decrease episodes of acid breakthrough.
Asia and the Reform of Global Governance
Authors: KAHLER Miles
Published: November 2010

Asia's growing economic weight in the world economy is unlikely to produce substantial changes in global economic governance. National economic capabilities are not easily translated into influence over governance outcomes or institutions. Governments must deploy strategies of engagement with key institutions; incumbent powers will attempt counterstrategies. Coalition‐building within and outside the region confronts substantial obstacles that reduce Asia's bargaining leverage. Asian preferences over institutional design and policies are unlikely to diverge from the status quo. A more pessimistic scenario includes resistance to global surveillance, spillover from other issue‐areas, and defensive regionalism that undermines global institutions.
Dissecting the China Puzzle: Asymmetric Liberalization and Cost Distortion
Authors: HUANG Yiping
Published: November 2010

We attempt to explain the China Puzzle, the coexistence of accelerating economic growth, and a worsening growth outlook. The root cause lies in China's unique liberalization approach, that is, the combination of a complete liberalization of product markets and continued distortions in factor markets. Repressed costs of labor, capital, land, and resources artificially raise the profits of production, increase the returns to investment, and improve the international competitiveness of Chinese products. The asymmetric liberalization approach not only promoted economic growth, but also caused structural risks. It also contributed to global imbalances as well as regional integration. Therefore, future reform policies should focus on the liberalization of the factor markets and the elimination of cost distortions.
Functional Increase of Brain Histaminergic Signaling in Huntington's Disease
Authors: van Wamelen Daniel J. , Shan Ling , Aziz N. Ahmad , Anink Jasper J. , Bao Ai‐Min , Roos Raymund A. C. , Swaab Dick F.
Published: November 2010

To evaluate whether central histaminergic signaling in Huntington's disease (HD) patients is affected, we assessed mRNA levels of histidine decarboxylase (HDC), volume of and neuron number in the hypothalamic tuberomamillary nucleus (TMN) (HD n = 8, controls n = 8). In addition, we assessed histamine N‐methyltransferase (HMT) and histamine receptor (H1R, H2R and H3R) mRNA levels in the inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) (n = 9 and 9) and caudate nucleus (CN) (n = 6 and 6) by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. In HD patients, TMN volume and neuronal number was unaltered (P = 0.72, P = 0.25). The levels of HDC mRNA (P = 0.046), IFG HMT (P < 0.001), H1R (P < 0.001) and H3R mRNA levels (P = 0.011) were increased, while CN H2R and H3R mRNA levels were decreased (P = 0.041, P = 0.009). In HD patients, we observed a positive correlation between IFG H3R mRNA levels and CAG repeat length (P = 0.024) and negative correlations between age at onset of disease and IFG HMT (P = 0.015) and H1R (P = 0.021) mRNA levels. These findings indicate a functional increase in brain histaminergic signaling in HD, and provide a rationale for the use of histamine receptor antagonists.
The chromomycin CmmA acetyltransferase: a membrane‐bound enzyme as a tool for increasing structural diversity of the antitumour mithramycin
Authors: García Beatriz , González‐Sabín Javier , Menéndez Nuria , Braña Alfredo F. , Núñez Luz Elena , Morís Francisco , Salas José A. , Méndez Carmen
Published: November 2010

Mithramycin and chromomycin A3 are two structurally related antitumour compounds, which differ in the glycosylation profiles and functional group substitutions of the sugars. Chromomycin contains two acetyl groups, which are incorporated during the biosynthesis by the acetyltransferase CmmA in Streptomyces griseus ssp. griseus. A bioconversion strategy using an engineered S. griseus strain generated seven novel acetylated mithramycins. The newly formed compounds were purified and characterized by MS and NMR. These new compounds differ from their parental compounds in the presence of one, two or three acetyl groups, attached at 3E, 4E and/or 4D positions. All new mithramycin analogues showed antitumour activity at micromolar of lower concentrations. Some of the compounds showed improved activities against glioblastoma or pancreas tumour cells. The CmmA acetyltransferase was located in the cell membrane and was shown to accept several acyl‐CoA substrates. All these results highlight the potential of CmmA as a tool to create structural diversity in these antitumour compounds.
Dispositions en matière de sécuritééconomique dans le contexte du vieillissement de la population en Inde
Authors: Bloom David E. , Mahal Ajay , Rosenberg Larry , Sevilla Jaypee
Published: November 2010

Vu le vieillissement rapide de la population indienne, la migration des régions rurales et la concentration continue de la population active dans le secteur informel, il est nécessaire de prendre des mesures concrètes afin d'assurer la sécuritééconomique des personnes âgées. Ces dernières courent, d'ailleurs, un risque accru d'être pauvres ou de tomber dans la pauvreté en raison de l'effritement des liens familiaux traditionnels qui sont essentiels pour leur garantir un minimum de sécurité ainsi que de l'augmentation de la longévité qui entraîne une hausse des dépenses pour leurs soins. Parallèlement aux efforts déployés pour s'attaquer à ce problème, le gouvernement indien et certains Etats de l'Inde ont lancé une série de programmes visant à fournir à la grande majorité des Indiens des services de soins de santé et d'assurance maladie auxquels ils n'ont pas suffisamment accès. Bien que les travailleurs du secteur structuré jouissent d'une plus grande sécurité sociale que ceux du secteur informel, ils ne représentent qu'une faible part de la population active. Les femmes sont, quant à elles, extrêmement vulnérables à l'insécuritééconomique. L'expérience indienne sert de leçon à d'autres pays. Quoiqu'il y ait de la place pour des initiatives privées dans le domaine de la sécurité sociale, force est de constater que la plupart d'entre elles devront être financées par l'impôt. Même si la plus grande partie du financement provient de sources publiques, les prestataires privés jouent un rôle considérable, mais ils seront confrontés à des défis plus importants à mesure qu'un plus grand nombre de personnes demanderont des prestations. L'Inde a également montré que les Etats peuvent souvent mener à bien la mise en œuvre de mesures financées par le gouvernement central, avec bien sûr des avantages et des inconvénients propres à une telle décentralisation. Enfin, la pratique indienne peut éclairer des questions comme le ciblage, l'utilisation des technologies de l'information dans les systèmes de sécurité sociale et la gestion des ressources humaines.
Les problèmes de fourniture d'une protection sociale aux migrants dans le contexte de l'évolution des flux migratoires
Authors: Sabates‐Wheeler Rachel , Koettl Johannes
Published: November 2010

Pour les migrants internationaux, l'accès à la protection sociale varie considérablement selon les cas. Cet article est consacréà la question des cotisations liées aux gains versées aux programmes de sécurité sociale, ainsi qu'à leur manque (fréquent) de transférabilitéà travers les frontières — un problème qui affecte plus particulièrement les migrants Sud‐Sud. De plus, on remarque que dans de nombreux pays à faible revenu, le manque de capacités administratives pour la mise en œuvre des programmes de sécurité sociale est souvent, en premier lieu, un problème plus grave encore que celui du manque de transférabilité des droits acquis potentiels aux prestations en espèces payées par ces programmes. Les migrants ne pouvant couramment bénéficier ni des programmes de sécurité sociale en vigueur dans leur pays d'origine, ni de ceux de leur pays d'accueil, leur bien‐être et leur sécurité en sont fortement réduits, de même ceux de leurs familles. L'article conclut que la migration Sud‐Sud doit être comprise comme un phénomène très différent de la migration Nord‐Nord, pour laquelle il est beaucoup plus facile de résoudre les problèmes de protection sociale.
Dynamique de la population: sécurité sociale, marchés et familles
Authors: Mason Andrew , Lee Ronald , Lee Sang‐Hyop
Published: November 2010

Dans les pays industrialisés développés, les flux intergénérationnels ascendants — orientés des générations actives vers les générations âgées — connaissent une hausse substantielle et sont beaucoup plus élevés que dans les pays en développement. Le vieillissement démographique constitue le principal moteur de cette évolution, si bien qu'en l'absence d'inversion de la tendance démographique (par exemple de retour à une féconditéélevée) les flux ascendants augmenteront inévitablement. En outre, même si cette inversion se produit, trois autres facteurs importants vont influer sur l'ampleur des flux ascendants. Premièrement, le revenu du travail aux âges avancés varie en raison de différences au niveau de l'âge moyen de la retraite, de la productivité, du chômage et de la durée du travail. Deuxièmement, les profils de consommation selon l'âge au sein de la population âgée diffèrent, en premier lieu à cause de différences au niveau des dépenses de santé. Troisièmement, l'investissement en capital humain (c'est‐à‐dire les dépenses consacrées à l'éducation et à la santé des enfants) varie. Ces investissements sont en concurrence avec les dépenses consacrées aux personnes âgées, mais permettent d'accroître la productivité des prochaines générations de travailleurs et les ressources qui seront disponibles pour financer la consommation des personnes âgées.

Toutes les sociétés contemporaines font appel à diverses institutions et divers mécanismes économiques pour transférer les ressources économiques des générations en âge de travailler vers les générations à charge — les jeunes et les personnes âgées. Les transferts entre les générations relèvent essentiellement de trois institutions: l'Etat, qui met en œuvre les régimes de sécurité sociale, les systèmes éducatifs et d'autres dispositifs de transferts publics; les marchés, qui jouent un rôle fondamental dans l'accumulation d'actifs (sous forme de pensions par capitalisation et de logements par exemple); les familles, qui apportent un soutien économique à leurs enfants dans toutes les sociétés et aux personnes âgées dans beaucoup de sociétés. Le présent article vise, en premier lieu, à décrire les effets du vieillissement démographique et d'autres évolutions sur la direction et l'ampleur des flux entre les générations et, en second lieu, à comparer les différentes pratiques institutionnelles existant dans le monde en matière de flux intergénérationnels. Il s'appuie dans une large mesure sur le système des Comptes de transferts nationaux (National Transfer Accounts, NTA), mis au point pour mesurer les flux économiques entre générations d'une façon cohérente avec le Système de comptabilité nationale des Nations Unies. Des équipes de recherche implantées dans 33 pays sur six continents représentant des contextes très divers en termes de niveau de développement, de démographie et de politiques en matière de transferts intergénérationnels travaillent actuellement à la construction de ces comptes.
La capacité des institutions de sécurité sociale et de soins de santéà s'adapter à un monde vieillissant
Authors: Harper Sarah
Published: November 2010

La population vieillit dans beaucoup de pays d'Europe, en Amérique du Nord et ailleurs depuis un certain nombre de décennies. Toutefois, ces derniers temps, le rythme, l'ampleur et la portée mondiale de ce vieillissement commencent àêtre reconnus, et ses conséquences plus larges évaluées. Le vieillissement de la population pose un défi majeur pour les systèmes de sécurité sociale et de soins de santéà travers le monde. Les différents gouvernements aborderont ces problèmes à partir de profils démographiques, de régimes de protection sociale, de structures institutionnelles et de systèmes culturels très divers. La réussite future des sociétés dans leurs efforts pour faire face à cette évolution démographique reposera, dans une large mesure, sur la capacité des institutions de sécurité sociale et de soins de santéà s'adapter à un monde vieillissant.
A neuroendocrinological perspective on human hair follicle pigmentation
Authors: Paus Ralf
Published: November 2010

The role of neurohormones and neuropeptides in human hair follicle (HF) pigmentation extends far beyond the control of melanin synthesis by α‐MSH and ACTH and includes melanoblast differentiation, reactive oxygen species scavenging, maintenance of HF immune privilege, and remodeling of the HF pigmentary unit (HFPU). It is now clear that human HFs are not only a target of multiple neuromediators, but also are a major non‐classical production site for neurohormones such as CRH, proopiomelanocortin, ACTH, α‐MSH, ß‐endorphin, TRH, and melatonin. Moreover, human HFs have established a functional peripheral equivalent of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. By charting the author’s own meanderings through the jungle of hair pigmentation research, the current perspectives essay utilizes four clinical observations – hair repigmentation, canities, poliosis, and ‘overnight greying’– as points of entry into the enigmas and challenges of .pigmentary HF neuroendocrinology. After synthesizing key principles and defining major open questions in the field, selected research avenues are delineated that appear clinically most promising. In this context, novel neuroendocrinological strategies to retard or reverse greying and to reduce damage to the HFPU are discussed.
Differences in Angiotensin Convertase Enzyme (ACE) Activity and Expression May Contribute to Shorter Event Free Period After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Daragó Andrea , Fagyas Miklós , Siket Ivetta M. , Facskó Andrea , Megyesi Zita , Kalász Judit , Galajda Zoltán , Szerafin Tamás , Hársfalvi Jolán , Édes István , Papp Zoltán , Tóth Attila , Szentmiklósi József
Published: November 2010

Aims: The goal of this study was to investigate the importance of the vascular angiotensin convertase enzyme (ACE) in coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) patients. Methods: Vascular tissue (distal saphenous vein [n= 163] and/or radial artery [n= 120] segments) and blood samples were collected from CABG patients (n= 81). We studied (i) the potency of angiotensin I (AngI) and angiotensin II (AngII) to evoke vascular contractions; (ii) vascular and plasma ACE concentrations; and (iii) ACE genotype of the patients enrolled. Results: The ratio of the potencies (EC50) of AngII and AngI was significantly lower in radial artery compared to the saphenous vein (0.17 ± 0.03 nM and 0.51 ± 0.14 nM, respectively, P= 0.003), suggesting a 3‐fold more effective AngI conversion in saphenous vein samples. Angiotensin constrictions were inhibited with telmisartan and captopril in both saphenous veins and radial arteries. Vascular ACE expression was significantly higher in saphenous vein compared to radial artery (9.7 ± 1.0 ng/mg and 5.3 ± 0.7 ng/mg, respectively, P= 0.01). Serum but no tissue ACE concentration was determined by ACE insertion/deletion polymorphism. Accordingly, no relation was found between serum and tissue ACE expression. Conclusion: ACE‐inhibitor therapy targeting tissue located ACE may be beneficial to patients with saphenous vein grafts after CABG surgery.
In Love or In Trouble: Examining Ways Court Professionals Can Better Respond to Victims of Adolescent Partner Violence
Authors: Hyman Judge Eugene M. , Lucibello Wanda , Meyer Emilie
Published: November 2010

This article explores adolescent partner violence and the responses to it from the legal system. Research suggests that as many as 45% of high school students have experienced some form of adolescent partner violence. Despite these findings, the legal response to domestic violence has focused on assisting adult victims and has often excluded adolescents. This article examines the innovative approaches of two of the country's first adolescent‐oriented domestic violence courts and uses the lessons learned from these courts and the research to suggest a larger role court professionals can play in responding to adolescent partner violence.
Compositional differences in particle‐associated and free‐living microbial assemblages from an extreme deep‐ocean environment
Authors: Eloe Emiley A. , Shulse Christine N. , Fadrosh Douglas W. , Williamson Shannon J. , Allen Eric E. , Bartlett Douglas H.
Published: November 2010

Relatively little information is available for the composition of microbial communities present in hadal environments, the deepest marine locations. Here we present a description of the phylogenetic diversity of particle‐associated (> 3 µm) and free‐living (3–0.22 µm) microorganisms present in a pelagic trench environment. Small subunit ribosomal RNA gene sequences were recovered from members of the Bacteria, Archaea and Eukarya obtained from a depth of 6000 m in the Puerto Rico Trench (PRT). Species richness estimates for the bacterial particle‐associated fraction were greater compared with the free‐living fraction and demonstrated statistically significant compositional differences, while the archaeal fractions were not found to be significantly different. The particle‐associated fraction contained more Rhodobacterales and unclassified Myxococcales along with Bacteroidetes, Planctomycetes and chloroplast sequences, whereas the free‐living fraction contained more Caulobacterales, Xanthomonadales and Burkholderiales, along with Marine Group A and Gemmatimonadetes. The Eukarya contained a high abundance of Basidiomycota Fungi 18S rRNA genes, as well as representatives from the super‐groups Rhizaria, Excavata and Chromalveolata. A diverse clade of diplonemid flagellates was also identified from the eukaryotic phylotypes recovered, which was distinct from previously identified deep‐sea pelagic diplonemid groups. The significance of these results to considerations of deep‐sea microbial life and particle colonization is discussed in comparison to the few other deep‐ocean phylogenetic surveys available.
How effective is yoga? A concise overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Ernst Edzard , Lee Myeong Soo
Published: November 2010

Yoga has become a popular form of CAM and is often advocated for a wide range of conditions. The aim of this overview was to evaluate critically all systematic reviews of yoga for the symptomatic treatment of any condition. Twelve electronic databases were searched and 21 systematic reviews relating to a wide range of conditions were located. Nine systematic reviews arrived at positive conclusions, but many systematic reviews were associated with a high risk of bias. Unanimously positive evidence emerged for depression and cardiovascular risk reduction. Despite an impressive number of systematic reviews, evidence of effectiveness is positive only for two indications.