bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Governing for a Healthy Population: Towards an Understanding of How Decision-Making Will Determine Our Global Health in a Changing Climate
Authors: Bowen Kathryn J. , Friel Sharon , Ebi Kristie , Butler Colin D. , Miller Fiona , McMichael Anthony J.
Published: December 2011

Enhancing the adaptive capacity of individuals, communities, institutions and nations is pivotal to protecting and improving human health and well-being in the face of systemic social inequity plus dangerous climate change. However, research on the determinants of adaptive capacity in relation to health, particularly concerning the role of governance, is in its infancy. This paper highlights the intersections between global health, climate change and governance. It presents an overview of these key concerns, their relation to each other, and the potential that a greater understanding of governance may present opportunities to strengthen policy and action responses to the health effects of climate change. Important parallels between addressing health inequities and sustainable development practices in the face of global environmental change are also highlighted. We propose that governance can be investigated through two key lenses within the earth system governance theoretical framework; agency and architecture. These two governance concepts can be evaluated using methods of social network research and policy analysis using case studies and is the subject of further research.
Assessment of Genetic Diversity of Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) Using ISSR Markers
Authors: Farsani Tayebeh Mohammadi , Etemadi Nematollah , Sayed-Tabatabaei Badraldin Ebrahim , Talebi Majid
Published: December 2011

Bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) is a major turfgrass for home lawns, public parks, golf courses and sport fields and is known to have originated in the Middle East. Morphological and physiological characteristics are not sufficient to differentiate some bermudagrass genotypes because the differences between them are often subtle and subjected to environmental influences. In this study, twenty seven bermudagrass accessions and introductions, mostly from different parts of Iran, were assayed by inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers to differentiate and explore their genetic relationships. Fourteen ISSR primers amplified 389 fragments of which 313 (80.5%) were polymorphic. The average polymorphism information content (PIC) was 0.328, which shows that the majority of primers are informative. Cluster analysis using the un-weighted paired group method with arithmetic average (UPGMA) method and Jaccard’s similarity coefficient (r = 0.828) grouped the accessions into six main clusters according to some degree to geographical origin, their chromosome number and some morphological characteristics. It can be concluded that there exists a wide genetic base of bermudograss in Iran and that ISSR markers are effective in determining genetic diversity and relationships among them.
In Vitro Antioxidant, Anticoagulant and Antimicrobial Activity and in Inhibition of Cancer Cell Proliferation by Xylan Extracted from Corn Cobs
Authors: Melo-Silveira Raniere Fagundes , Fidelis Gabriel Pereira , Costa Mariana Santana Santos Pereira , Telles Cinthia Beatrice Silva , Dantas-Santos Nednaldo , Elias Susana de Oliveira , Ribeiro Vanessa Bley , Barth Afonso Luis , Macedo Alexandre José , Leite Edda Lisboa , Rocha Hugo Alexandre Oliveira
Published: December 2011

Xylan is one of most abundant polymer after cellulose. However, its potential has yet to be completely recognized. Corn cobs contain a considerable reservoir of xylan. The aim of this work was to study some of the biological activities of xylan obtained from corn cobs after alkaline extraction enhanced by ultrasonication. Physical chemistry and infrared analyses showed 130 kDa heteroxylan containing mainly xylose:arabinose: galactose:glucose (5.0:1.5:2.0:1.2). Xylan obtained exhibited total antioxidant activity corresponding to 48.5 mg of ascorbic acid equivalent/g of xylan. Furthermore, xylan displayed high ferric chelating activity (70%) at 2 mg/mL. Xylan also showed anticoagulant activity in aPTT test. In antimicrobial assay, the polysaccharide significantly inhibited bacterial growth of Klebsiella pneumoniae. In a test with normal and tumor human cells, after 72 h, only HeLa tumor cell proliferation was inhibited (p < 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner by xylan, reaching saturation at around 2 mg/mL, whereas 3T3 normal cell proliferation was not affected. The results suggest that it has potential clinical applications as antioxidant, anticoagulant, antimicrobial and antiproliferative compounds.
Force Measurement Enabling Precise Analysis by Dynamic Force Spectroscopy
Authors: Taninaka Atsushi , Hirano Yuuichi , Takeuchi Osamu , Shigekawa Hidemi
Published: December 2011

Dynamic force spectroscopy (DFS) makes it possible to investigate specific interactions between two molecules such as ligand-receptor pairs at the single-molecule level. In the DFS method based on the Bell-Evans model, the unbinding force applied to a molecular bond is increased at a constant rate, and the force required to rupture the molecular bond is measured. By analyzing the relationship between the modal rupture force and the logarithm of the loading rate, microscopic potential barrier landscapes and the lifetimes of bonds can be obtained. However, the results obtained, for example, in the case of streptavidin/biotin complexes, have differed among previous studies and some results have been inconsistent with theoretical predictions. In this study, using an atomic force microscopy technique that enables the precise analysis of molecular interactions on the basis of DFS, we investigated the effect of the sampling rate on DFS analysis. The shape of rupture force histograms, for example, was significantly deformed at a sampling rate of 1 kHz in comparison with that of histograms obtained at 100 kHz, indicating the fundamental importance of ensuring suitable experimental conditions for further advances in the DFS method.
On a Vision to Educating Students in Sustainability and Design—The James Madison University School of Engineering Approach
Authors: Nagel Robert L. , Pappas Eric C. , Pierrakos Olga
Published: December 2011

In order for our future engineers to be able to work toward a sustainable future, they must be versed not only in sustainable engineering but also in engineering design. An engineering education must train our future engineers to think flexibly and to be adaptive, as it is unlikely that their future will have them working in one domain. They must, instead, be versatilists. The School of Engineering at James Madison University has been developed from the ground up to provide this engineering training with an emphasis on engineering design, systems thinking, and sustainability. Neither design nor sustainability are mutually exclusive, and consequently, an education focusing on design and sustainability must integrate these topics, teaching students to follow a sustainable design process. This is the goal of the James Madison University School of Engineering. In this paper, we present our approach to curricular integration of design and sustainability as well as the pedagogical approaches used throughout the curriculum. We do not mean to present the School’s model as an all or nothing approach consisting of dependent elements, but instead as a collection of independent approaches, of which one or more may be appropriate at another university.
When “small” terms matter: Coupled interference features in the transport properties of cross-conjugated molecules
Authors: Solomon Gemma C , Bergfield Justin P , Stafford Charles A , Ratner Mark A
Published: December 2011

Quantum interference effects offer opportunities to tune the electronic and thermoelectric response of a quantum-scale device over orders of magnitude. Here we focus on single-molecule devices, in which interference features may be strongly affected by both chemical and electronic modifications to the system. Although not always desirable, such a susceptibility offers insight into the importance of “small” terms, such as through-space coupling and many-body charge–charge correlations. Here we investigate the effect of these small terms using different Hamiltonian models with Hückel, gDFTB and many-body theory to calculate the transport through several single-molecule junctions, finding that terms that are generally thought to only slightly perturb the transport instead produce significant qualitative changes in the transport properties. In particular, we show that coupling of multiple interference features in cross-conjugated molecules by through-space coupling will lead to splitting of the features, as can correlation effects. The degeneracy of multiple interference features in cross-conjugated molecules appears to be significantly more sensitive to perturbations than those observed in equivalent cyclic systems and this needs to be considered if such supernodes are required for molecular thermoelectric devices.
Synthetic approaches to multifunctional indenes
Authors: Mesquida Neus , López-Pérez Sara , Dinarès Immaculada , Alcalde Ermitas
Published: December 2011

The synthesis of multifunctional indenes with at least two different functional groups has not yet been extensively explored. Among the plausible synthetic routes to 3,5-disubstituted indenes bearing two different functional groups, such as the [3-(aminoethyl)inden-5-yl)]amines, a reasonable pathway involves the (5-nitro-3-indenyl)acetamides as key intermediates. Although several multistep synthetic approaches can be applied to obtain these advanced intermediates, we describe herein their preparation by an aldol-type reaction between 5-nitroindan-1-ones and the lithium salt of N,N-disubstituted acetamides, followed immediately by dehydration with acid. This classical condensation process, which is neither simple nor trivial despite its apparent directness, permits an efficient entry to a variety of indene-based molecular modules, which could be adapted to a range of functionalized indanones.
HUMAN RESOURCES: STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT ASPECTS
Authors: Chlivickas Eugenijus , Papšienė Palmira , Papšys Arnas
Published: December 2011

The following processes pose challenges for the organization: self-establishment in the market economy, restructuring, globalization, development of techniques and technology, formation of information society, development of a knowledge economy, change of the society economic situation and democratic processes. In the organization which is constantly changing a new approach to the organization is formed. It is viewed as an operating system where company employees, i.e., human resources, become the most important and the most active part of the system, determining the efficiency of the pursuing of organizational goals. In the constantly changing organization a new approach to the organization is formed. It is viewed as an operating system where company employees, i. e., human resources, become the most important and the most active part of the system, determining the efficiency of the pursuing of organization objectives. Human resource management process cannot be separated from the strategy. Strategic human resource management is a part of strategic management concept in the organization. Theoretical provisions for the management of human resources, presented in the academic literature, confirm the influence of this functional area of management on the overall organization performance results. For the organization, which is operating in the global market, it is essential to manage existing or potential labor resources effectively. One of the main staff evaluation criteria is the effectiveness of personnel management. New tendencies encourage closer association of human resource management with organization strategy. “Four-C” model competence, commitment, compliance and cost efficiency is helpful in assessing the effectiveness of organization human resources policies conformity with its strategy.
LITHUANIAN CLUSTER OF SEA ECONOMICS – INSTRUMENT OF SUSTAINABLE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Grublienė Violeta
Published: December 2011

The article analyses problems of cluster’s formation in Lithuania. The reasons why clusters in Lithuania are evolving slowly are described in this article. Also cluster’s development process in a logical sequence is submitted. The article accented that the Lithuanian cluster’s policy principles should assess the specific Lithuanian conditions, the positive foreign experience and strategic objectives of competitiveness.Lithuanian status of fisheries sector is estimated. Also the main problems in this sector are named: complexity of management, decreasing of fishing quota, shorter season of cod fishing, economic problems. The article made assumptions that the clustering process should ensure more sustainable development of the sector, a new operational quality creating the ability to compete at lower prices and innovation. Also it was emphasized that clustering processes should assess such factors as: sector’s culture, competitive opportunities and sustainable development of the region.During formation of this cluster it is recommended to assess the fisheries sector as the component of Lithuanian maritime economy. Lithuanian maritime cluster should be developed allowing for common features inherent in clusters, assessing sustainable development principles of the sector. In this way Lithuanian maritime cluster combines not only the fisheries sector but also the activities characterized by Lithuanian maritime economy.
R&D IMPORTANCE IN IMPROVING AUTOMOBILE TRADING MARKET
Authors: Mickonytė Aurelija , Melnikas Borisas
Published: December 2011

Production and sales of automobiles are significant parts of the 21st century economy. The aim of this study is to reveal the latest and most perspective scientific research directions in improving international automobile trading business by using scientific sources and official statistics. Scientific researchers are focused on strategic means that have to be taken in order to recover the market share and past sales volumes.This study reveals that even though sales volumes of automobiles in general are decreasing rapidly, sales of compact class automobiles are improving. Three main reasons for this fact are stated. First is price, second is the model of automobile and its technical characteristics, third reason is growing environmentalism. Regarding the mentioned reasons for automobile market over grouping by segments, three main scientific research directions are discussed: those that are due to price reduction, technical appearance focused and environment focused scientific researches.
THE SHADOW ECONOMY FACTORS AND CAUSES ANALYSIS BY EXPERT EVALUATION METHOD: CASE OF LITHUANIA
Authors: Krumplytė Jolita
Published: December 2011

In the scientific literature the shadow economy is defined as a complex multifaceted set of phenomena, whose existence is determined by various factors and causes. The article examines the shadow economy through tax administration perspective. The author’s chosen object of the research encompasses economic activities, results of which such as tax evasion or concealment are not included in the official records. The shadow economy factors and reasons are economic, legal-administrative and social- psychological. Most of the time scientific research analyses the following shadow economy factors and causes: ▪ burden and rise of direct and indirect taxes and compulsory social insurance contribution; ▪ too stringent (or insufficient) legal and administrative regulation; ▪ weak government and a high level of corruption in the governmental sector; ▪ the income inequality (a high poverty level); ▪ the legislative gaps; ▪ the tax administration system deficiencies; ▪ irrational country’s economic policy; ▪ tax morale; ▪ insufficient government attention to social policy or irrational its development. The article presents the empirical study results about Lithuanian shadow economy factors and causes. The survey was carried out by experts – Lithuanian State Tax Inspection staff which has experience in inspecting taxpayers and conducting tax investigations. 702 experts took part in the research. According to experts’ estimations, companies and individuals enter into shadow economic activity mainly because they do not have any other way out (otherwise they won’t be able to stand up to competition, individuals won’t be able to make a living, etc.) as well as because other economy players pull them in. Experts also estimate that the most important Lithuanian shadow economy causes are the following: too big tax burden (in the case of illegal work – significant gross and net wage gap), gaps in legislation, frequent law changes, distrust of country’s government, dissatisfaction with the quality of work of governmental institutions. The main causes of the sprawl of the shadow economy – the inability to compete without being involved in the shadow economy, the lack of unified declaration of income and insufficient control of state institutions.
INVESTIGATION OF SEGREGATED BUSINESS ETHICS ELEMENTS INFLUENCE ON RESULTS OF SERVICE ENTERPRISES ACTIVITY
Authors: Luebcke Kristina
Published: December 2011

The article deals with interaction of segregated business ethics elements with service enterprises activity. To discover the interaction, business ethics has been differentiated to segregated elements and the influence of the segregated elements for main indexes of enterprises competitiveness discovered by correlation coefficients. Effective mana-gement is inseparable from ethics. The organization of ethical training in the company cannot just “wake” ethical awareness, and also of targeted individuals to shape their activities on matter-of-fact ethical justification, as modern ethics code object principles can be implemented not only for ethical training for staff, but also involving them in the company’s code of ethics for development. The study showed that in Lithuania, so far, very few companies have their own ethic codes and employees not only do not participate in the production, but also little wise twig about their purpose. Calculations showed, that business ethics have direct impact on the corporate profits, it is clear that ethics is only an aid in order to achieve its goal. Although the overall company’s revenue per year has increased substantially, ethical behavior may in itself be evocative. The strongest influence discovered was: commitment compliance with sales results, profit growth, and installation rates of innovations; guarantee of the reliable service information about earnings; infor-mation security assurance and leadership style for company’s image. Also, some problems of implementation of business ethics at service enterprises were discovered.
THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL ECONOMIC BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT ON THERMOGRAPHY BUSINESS
Authors: Poželaitė Rūta , Jonuškienė Erika
Published: December 2011

Lithuanian economy survives a recession, business is increasingly difficult to operate in the Lithuanian market. One of the first who suffered the consequences of the economic recession is construction business pushing into difficulties business-related businesses and residents. Due to economic downturn the prices of the construction decreased, consumer spending power diminished, bank lending conditions became tighter, which further undercut the market for construction services. Economic growth has changed the attitude of the population to a warm home, quality of the construction. Although thermography used in the construction industry allows construction companies to ensure their quality of work, people find their homes of poor thermal insulation, moisture retention and more effective to plan for repairs, to check the quality of work carried out by builders and trou-bleshooting to save heat energy and reduce heating costs, but demand for thermography was not great. It is therefore important to find out how the socio-economic environment influences the business of thermography, whether the socio-economic environment al-lows it to develop, or, otherwise, whether it is becoming a threat, reducing the demand for thermography. The aim of this paper is to explore the socio-economic impact on the business environment of thermography business. The methods used in the study were: scientific literature review, secondary data analysis, questionnaire, interview, comparison, clustering methods, PESTLE analysis.The business environment of thermography business can be defined as the business envi-ronment including the global environment and macro environmental factors which affect the entire business, affect success or failure of a business and which the company could not control, and micro-factors that directly affect the company and which the company could influence. The interaction of Lithuanian social and economic environments makes opportunities and threats for thermography business. The poor economic situation influ-ences increasing unemployment, therefore the consumer purchasing power reduces and the incentive to emigrate increases, thus reducing the market of thermography business. As well as the economic situation of the country results in the construction sector in its production decline and increase in bankruptcies of construction companies seeking ways to cost reduction, which reduces the market of thermography business. But the need to save energy, the desire to live in warm housing is still a small possibility of market growth, even in crisis conditions.
ESTIMATION OF THE LITHUANIAN TAX SYSTEM ACCORDING TO J. GILL‘S DIAGNOSTIC INDICES
Authors: Skačkauskienė Ilona
Published: December 2011

Theorists and practicians have various solutions on offer for estimating and improving the tax system. However, the tax system is a complicated combination, which calls for a systematic attitude and combined evaluation. In a specialized literature there can be found various offers of methodical nature for estimating tax systems, however, only few of the authors examine the tax system in a combined (complex) way. One of such authors is J. Gill. The aim of this examination is to evaluate the Lithuanian tax system by making use of J. Gill‘s diagnostic indices as well as to prove the suitability of the method for such a task. The tax system – by making use of J. Gill‘s method – has been evaluated, basing on the collection of revenues, under three aspects: natural qualities of tax system, efficiency and productivity. The qualitative and quantitative empiric examination disclosed merits and shortcomings of the Lithuanian tax system, and – with some exceptions – had proved the suitability of the method for evaluating tax systems. In the article there are also suggestions for improving of J. Gill‘s method.
E-GOVERNMENT IN LITHUANIA – LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT LAYER
Authors: Raginytė Elena , Paliulis Narimantas Kazimieras
Published: December 2011

Lithuanian public e-services at the level of municipalities are lagging behind the level of the central authorities. This is due to many factors, which leads to a slight lack of good position. A large proportion of the municipal authorities do not have e-service development strategies, or governing documents by the activities of the virtual space. It should be noted that this situation is in the part of central authorities too. This leads to the situation that the strategy aims are not fully realized. Although individual government institutions have been successful and effectively developing e-services, e.g. the State Tax Inspectorate is at the fifth level of public service. In order to improve the needs of society and citizens, a public service list was formed, whose services should be transferred as soon as possible to the virtual space, and provided with the levels of public e-services. The implementation of established goals can expect significant improvement in this area. Important, but still weak-moved to the virtual space of the public service areas is the environmental area. There has been no public e-service concept of environmental area in Lithuania yet. The article describes models of public e-services in the field of waste management.
E-HEALTH SERVICES AND THEIR REQUIREMENTS EVALUATION
Authors: Stašys Rimantas
Published: December 2011

E-health could be defined as the use of modern information technologies within the health care facilities in order to better satisfy expectations and needs of the patients, medical staff and administration. As the research shows economic profits exceed investments in the e-health three times. Studies in Lithuania in December of 2008 show that only 38 % of the country hospitals have online WebPages. Only large hospitals located in the major Lithuanian cities have internet sites. Situation within the outpatient facilities is even worse. Only 12 % of these health care facilities had online services offered to the public according to the survey completed at the end of 2008. There is insufficient focus for doctors’ advices and not enough links to other websites. Additionally, many sites do not contain information about career opportunities within a facility. Finally, online sites lack such information as the institution’s service charges or their implementation for various projects. Only a few hospitals have an online registra-tion feature and very few provide work hours. Outpatient service facilities do not reflect the institution’s activities adequately. None of the outpatient service facilities provide business reports; there is no information about their participation in the international projects. Only four WebPages contain sections providing the career opportunities for the office and a list of new doctor positions available. By the comparison of the Webpages of polyclinics and health care facilities one can indicate that polyclinic facilities have better online pages. Most of the health care consumers would use the Internet to find out such information as the doctor’s qualifications and work experience, information about main diseases and their symptoms, the medications and their side effects, tips on healthy lifestyle, as well as utilize registration to a specialist feature. Most of the respondents surveyed also indicated that there should be more information about health care services and their prices, institution’s medical equipment and devices as well as their methods of treatment. The best practice for the e-Health website is classifying it into four groups: information on the health care institution, information relating to the services provided, information on the medical staff working in the office, other information. 48 % of the respondents were not familiar with the online registration possibility, and 74 % of survey participants would like to use the feature. Only 13 % of the respondents knew that they could fill prescription online and only 10 % were aware of the electronic medical record. All of this leads to the conclusion that Lithuanian consumers lack information about the e-health.
LABOUR MARKET IN LITHUANIA: GENDER SITUATION
Authors: Guščinskienė Jūratė , Čiburienė Jadvyga
Published: December 2011

The article analyses the situation of men and women in the labour market in the globalization and economic integration into the European Union conditions and demonstrates that gender equality under the current conditions and social life, politics and economy is becoming a political priority. The aim of the paper is: to analyze the situation of men and women in the labour market and its regulation; to study the respondents’ view on the situation of men and women in the labour market. Empirical study showed that 42% of women and 26% of men have never lost their jobs and the people who have, have men-tioned several reasons for this. Respondents, both women and men, generally lose work because of inadequate working conditions and the company’s bankruptcy. Meanwhile, the response of men’s and women’s opinion on the inequality/discrimination experience is different. According to women, involved in the study, in Lithuania they mostly experienced discrimination based on sex and age, while men consider to be most discriminated on grounds of sex, disability and age. Almost one fifth of the respondents have personally experienced discrimination themselves in the labour market because of sex.
MANAGERS’ ABILITY TO COPE WITH STRESS IN THE WORK SETTINGS
Authors: Župerkienė Erika
Published: December 2011

The article analyses the type of expression of manager professional stress. The main features of professional stress are discussed taking into consideration the problems, which can arise due to stress at work. Impact of long-lasting stress suffered at work is displayed through the changes in managers‘ behaviour, which reduces management effectiveness, causes health problems and pathological changes in the organism systems. By means of a standardized test, stress management skills of managers of Lithuanian small and medium-size business companies are disclosed: elimination of stress factors, resistance to stress, temporary means of coping with stress. The most relevant reasons, which cause managers’ stress at work, are identified. The results of survey show that managers’ ability to cope with stress in the work settings is insufficient: the best developed stress management skill amongst the respondents is ability to eliminate stress factors; while resistance to stress is poorly developed, the skill in applying temporary means of relaxation is also subject to improving. In order to develop stress management skills, managers are recommended to use a strategy for elimination of stress factors: to plan time, strengthen resistance to stress by developing emotional intellect, by creating cooperating teams of employees, delegating authority, developing competencies of communication and work reorganization. For individual development of resistance to stress it is recommended to maintain healthy lifestyle and apply temporary means of relaxation when the need arises.
La fécondité des deuxièmes unions en France : âges des conjoints et autres facteurs
Authors: Beaujouan Éva
Published: December 2011

Résumé En France comme dans le reste de l’Europe, les trajectoires familiales se sont diversifiées. Comment la descendance se forme-t-elle dans des trajectoires conjugales plus complexes, et notamment comment les mécanismes de fécondité se déclinent-ils chez les hommes et les femmes lorsqu’ils vivent avec un deuxième conjoint ? Cet article apporte des éléments de réponse en utilisant les données de l’enquête Études des relations familiales et intergénérationnelles (Erfi, Ined-Insee, 2005), version française de la Generation and Gender Survey (GGS). Alors que les naissances dans les familles recomposées sont étudiées de façon extensive en Europe, peu d’attention est portée sur la différence de contraintes auxquelles sont confrontés les hommes et les femmes qui reforment un couple. Plus particulièrement, l’âge de la femme lors de la remise en couple explique les différences brutes de proportions de naissances dans la nouvelle union entre hommes et pères, et entre femmes et mères. Une fois pris en compte l’âge de la femme, on remarque également que les risques de naissance dans la deuxième union sont les plus faibles lorsque les deux conjoints ont déjà des enfants. Cependant, par rapport à un couple sans enfant, les enfants d’un seul des conjoints ne diminuent pas significativement le risque d’avoir des enfants.
Les orientations intimes des premier.e.s pacsé.e.s
Authors: Rault Wilfried , le groupe CSF
Published: December 2011

Résumé Incarnant la reconnaissance du couple de même sexe dans des termes différents du mariage, le Pacte civil de solidarité (pacs) est, depuis sa création en 1999, de plus en plus souvent choisi par des couples de sexe différent. Si les transformations contemporaines des formes d’union et les changements dans le domaine de la sexualité sont souvent étudiés séparément, cet article rompt avec cette dissociation pour interroger l’hypothèse selon laquelle les contractant.e.s du pacs donnent à voir des attitudes et des comportements vis-à-vis de la sexualité qui font écho à la diversification normative constatée par le groupe Contexte de la sexualité en France (CSF). On étudie, à partir de l’enquête CSF réalisée par l’Inserm et l’Ined en 2005-2006 auprès de 12 364 personnes, le rapport des pacsé.e.s aux trois principales composantes du socle normatif dominant en matière de sexualité : l’hétérosexualité, les modalités de l’intrication de la conjugalité et de la sexualité et la valorisation de pratiques « alternatives ». Les pacsé.e.s sont comparés à d’autres profils d’union. En définitive, les usagers de la nouvelle forme d’union se caractérisent par des spécificités qui tiennent davantage à des représentations plus libérales de la sexualité qu’à des différences en termes de pratiques. Ces spécificités ne doivent pas dissimuler d’importants clivages par sexe, même si hommes et femmes sont parfois relativement plus proches dans le groupe des pacsé.e.s.
Intentions de fécondité et obstacles à leur réalisation en France et en Italie
Authors: Régnier-Loilier Arnaud , Vignoli Daniele
Published: December 2011

Résumé Cet article confronte intentions de fécondité et réalisation en France (2005-2008) et en Italie (2003-2007), pays où les modèles de fécondité sont contrastés, en s’appuyant sur des données comparables issues du programme d’enquête longitudinale Generations and Gender Survey (GGS). Quatre principaux résultats ressortent. Le fort pouvoir prédictif des intentions négatives de fécondité et, à l’inverse, le fait que les intentions positives surestiment les comportements sont d’abord mis en évidence. La comparaison met ensuite en lumière une différence importante : la proportion de couples réalisant leurs intentions positives de fécondité est systématiquement plus élevée en France et, lorsqu’ils n’avaient pas l’intention d’avoir un enfant, la proportion de ceux en ayant eu un est également supérieure. Outre l’effet classique de l’âge et du nombre d’enfants, les facteurs socioéconomiques jouent un rôle important, les situations moins favorables apparaissant comme un obstacle à la réalisation des intentions. Les déterminants des intentions ne sont cependant pas tous identiques et il n’existe pas un unique modèle transposable d’un pays à l’autre : le rôle du contexte reste central. Enfin, lorsque les couples n’ont pas réalisé leurs intentions, certains ont reporté leur projet tandis que d’autres y ont renoncé. Les déterminants sont cependant différents selon le pays considéré. La distinction entre renoncement et ajournement, rarement faite dans les études, s’avère de ce point de vue intéressante.
Class B Scavenger Receptor Types I and II and CD36 Mediate Bacterial Recognition and Proinflammatory Signaling Induced by Escherichia coli, Lipopolysaccharide, and Cytosolic Chaperonin 60
Authors: Baranova Irina N. , Vishnyakova Tatyana G. , Bocharov Alexander V. , Leelahavanichkul Asada , Kurlander Roger , Chen Zhigang , Souza Ana C. P. , Yuen Peter S. T. , Star Robert A. , Csako Gyorgy , Patterson Amy P. , Eggerman Thomas L.
Published: December 2011

Class B scavenger receptors (SR-B) are lipoprotein receptors that also mediate pathogen recognition, phagocytosis, and clearance as well as pathogen-induced signaling. In this study we report that three members of the SR-B family, namely, CLA-1, CLA-2, and CD36, mediate recognition of bacteria not only through interaction with cell wall LPS but also with cytosolic chaperonin 60. HeLa cells stably transfected with any of these SR-Bs demonstrated markedly (3- to 5-fold) increased binding and endocytosis of Escherichia coli, LPS, and chaperonin 60 (GroEL) as revealed by both FACS analysis and confocal microscopy imaging. Increased pathogen (E. coli, LPS, and GroEL) binding to SR-Bs was also associated with the dose-dependent stimulation of cytokine secretion in the order of CD36 > CLA-2 > CLA-1 in HEK293 cells. Pathogen-induced IL-6-secretion was reduced in macrophages from CD36- and SR-BI/II–null mice by 40–50 and 30–40%, respectively. Intravenous GroEL administration increased plasma IL-6 and CXCL1 levels in mice. The cytokine responses were 40–60% lower in CD36−/− relative to wild-type mice, whereas increased cytokine responses were found in SR-BI/II−/− mice. While investigating the discrepancy of in vitro versus in vivo data in SR-BI/II deficiency, SR-BI/II−/− mice were found to respond to GroEL administration without increases in either plasma corticosterone or aldosterone as normally seen in wild-type mice. SR-BI/II−/− mice with mineralocorticoid replacement demonstrated an ∼40–50% reduction in CXCL1 and IL-6 responses. These results demonstrate that, by recognizing and mediating inflammatory signaling of both bacterial cell wall LPS and cytosolic GroEL, all three SR-B family members play important roles in innate immunity and host defense.
Lymph Node Hypertrophy following Leishmania major Infection Is Dependent on TLR9
Authors: Carvalho Lucas P. , Petritus Patricia M. , Trochtenberg Alyssa L. , Zaph Colby , Hill David A. , Artis David , Scott Phillip
Published: December 2011

Control of the protozoan parasite Leishmania major is dependent on establishing a robust T cell response. An early event in the development of an effective T cell response is the expansion (or hypertrophy) of the lymph node draining the site of infection, although the mechanisms involved in this response are not completely understood. In this study, we show that lymph node hypertrophy following L. major infection in mice is associated with increased recruitment of lymphocytes to the lymph node from the blood, and that CD62L-deficient mice, which are unable to recruit cells to the lymph node, develop a chronic infection with L. major. Injection of L. major-activated dendritic cells promoted lymph node hypertrophy, and this correlated with an increase in the expression of CCR7 on dendritic cells, although the upregulation of CCR7 occurred on the bystander (uninfected) dendritic cells rather than those containing parasites. We found that increased CCR7 expression was TLR9-dependent, that TLR9−/− dendritic cells migrated less efficiently to the draining lymph node, and that TLR9−/− mice exhibited a deficit in lymph node expansion following L. major infection, as well as increased susceptibility. Taken together, to our knowledge, these results are the first to demonstrate that activation of dendritic cells via TLR9 is essential for the induction of lymph node hypertrophy in leishmaniasis.
Humoral and Cellular Cross-Reactivity between Amb a 1, the Major Ragweed Pollen Allergen, and Its Mugwort Homolog Art v 6
Authors: Jahn-Schmid Beatrice , Hauser Michael , Wopfner Nicole , Briza Peter , Berger Uwe E. , Asero Riccardo , Ebner Christof , Ferreira Fatima , Bohle Barbara
Published: December 2011

Ragweed and mugwort are closely related weeds that represent the major cause of pollen allergy in late summer. Concomitant sensitization and clinical cross-reactivity frequently occur in subjects who are coexposed to both pollen species, and have implications for diagnosis and specific immunotherapy. Molecules involved in this cross-reactivity might be Amb a 1, the major ragweed pollen allergen, and Art v 6, a highly homologous allergen from mugwort. Therefore, we investigated the IgE and T cell response to Art v 6 of 60 weed pollen-allergic patients and assessed its immunological cross-reactivity with Amb a 1. Results of ELISA inhibition experiments suggested that both allergens are largely cross-reactive, but Amb a 1 possesses more IgE epitopes than Art v 6. In patients with IgE to both allergens, Amb a 1-induced T cell lines and clones responded weakly to Art v 6. Moreover, Art v 6-induced T cell lines responded stronger to Amb a 1. T cell epitope mapping of Art v 6 revealed that it contains only a few cross-reactive epitopes, which is opposed to the multiple T cell-activating regions present in Amb a 1. In summary, Amb a 1 can elicit more diverse allergen-specific IgE and T cell responses than Art v 6 and dominates the cross-reactivity with its homolog. Nevertheless, Art v 6 can act as a primary sensitizing allergen in areas with high mugwort pollen exposure, and consequently may facilitate sensitization to Amb a 1 by epitope cross-recognition of T and B cells.
Ifih1 Gene Dose Effect Reveals MDA5-Mediated Chronic Type I IFN Gene Signature, Viral Resistance, and Accelerated Autoimmunity
Authors: Crampton Steve P. , Deane Jonathan A. , Feigenbaum Lionel , Bolland Silvia
Published: December 2011

Type I IFNs (IFN-I) are normally produced during antiviral responses, yet high levels of chronic IFN-I expression correlate with autoimmune disease. A variety of viral sensors generate IFN-I in their response, but other than TLRs, it is not fully known which pathways are directly involved in the development of spontaneous immune pathologies. To further explore the link between IFN-I induced by viral pathways and autoimmunity, we generated a new transgenic mouse line containing multiple copies of Ifih1, a gene encoding the cytoplasmic dsRNA sensor MDA5 with proven linkage to diabetes and lupus. We show that MDA5 overexpression led to a chronic IFN-I state characterized by resistance to a lethal viral infection through rapid clearance of virus in the absence of a CD8+ or Ab response. Spontaneous MDA5 activation was not sufficient to initiate autoimmune or inflammatory pathology by itself, even though every immune cell population had signs of IFN activation. When combined with the lupus-susceptible background of the FcγR2B deficiency, MDA5 overexpression did accelerate the production of switched autoantibodies, the incidence of glomerulonephritis, and early lethality. Thus, MDA5 transgenic mice provide evidence that chronic elevated levels of IFN-I are not sufficient to initiate autoimmunity or inflammation although they might exacerbate an ongoing autoimmune pathology.
IL-27 Promotes IL-10 Production by Effector Th1 CD4+ T Cells: A Critical Mechanism for Protection from Severe Immunopathology during Malaria Infection
Authors: Freitas do Rosário Ana Paula , Lamb Tracey , Spence Philip , Stephens Robin , Lang Agathe , Roers Axel , Muller Werner , O’Garra Anne , Langhorne Jean
Published: December 2011

Infection with the malaria parasite, Plasmodium, is characterized by excessive inflammation. The establishment of a precise balance between the pro- and anti-inflammatory responses is critical to guarantee control of the parasite and survival of the host. IL-10, a key regulatory cytokine produced by many cells of the immune system, has been shown to protect mice against pathology during acute Plasmodium0 chabaudi chabaudi AS model of malaria. However, the critical cellular source of IL-10 is still unknown. In this article, we demonstrate that T cell-derived IL-10 is necessary for the control of pathology during acute malaria, as mice bearing specific deletion of Il10 in T cells fully reproduce the phenotype observed in Il10−/− mice, with significant weight loss, decline in temperature, and increased mortality. Furthermore, we show that IFN-γ+ Th1 cells are the main producers of IL-10 throughout acute infection, expressing high levels of CD44 and ICOS, and low levels of CD127. Although Foxp3+ regulatory CD4+ T cells produce IL-10 during infection, highly activated IFN-γ+ Th1 cells were shown to be the essential and sufficient source of IL-10 to guarantee protection against severe immune-mediated pathology. Finally, in this model of malaria, we demonstrate that the generation of protective IL10+IFN-γ+ Th1 cells is dependent on IL-27 signaling and independent of IL-21.
Coastal studies in the western Arctic Archipelago (Melville, Mackenzie King, Lougheed and Nearby Islands)
Authors: Forbes D L , Taylor R B , Frobel D
Published: December 2011

Coastal studies in the northwestern Arctic Archipelago during the summer of 1986 were divided into two components. Phase 1, on Sabine Peninsula, northern Melville Island, was concerned with Holocene delta sedimentation, facies characteristics in river-mouth
settings, prodelta slope stability, and rates of fluvial sediment supply to the coast. Delta terrace sequences were surveyed and sampled along the lower reaches of three of the largest rivers in the area, with observations extending up to about 30m asl near Invincible Point, 27 m asl near Drake
Point, and 20m asl near Chads Point. A preliminary assessment of the relative sea level history in the area suggests that the deposits examined may provide information on delta sedimentation processes back to 8-9 ka BP. Phase 2, based on Lougheed Island, was intended to ground-truth coastal mapping
carried out in 1980 and based exclusively on airphotos, to extend the information base by examining type coastal settings on Lougheed Island, and to extend and improve oblique aerial video coverage of the coast in this region. Low-level video imagery was obtained for the entire coast of Lougheed and
nearby small islands and for much of the east and north coast of Mackenzie King Island. The ground-truth survey program encompassed 11 sites on Lougheed Island and 2 on Mackenzie King.
An index to samples collected by the Atlantic Geoscience Centre for 1986
Authors: Hardy I A , Fisher L E
Published: December 2011

The Atlantic Geoscience Centre (AGC) at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (BIO) is responsible for providing and assisting with the procurement and curation of core, dredge, grab and other marine geological samples routinely collected onboard government
oceanographic/hydrographic survey vessels off the East Coast of Canada and High Arctic, and from Geological Survey of Canada field parties conducted on onshore Eastern Canada by AGC staff. One important mandate of the Geological Survey of Canada is to protect all such fundamental resources for
future geoscientific research. To meet this commitment, the Data Section of Program Support Subdivision at AGC maintains all soft sediment marine samples within the confines of a 5000 square foot core repository located at BIO. In 1986, 13 sampling cruises and 3 field programs obtained samples from
more than 626 locations with more than 990 meters of core recovered. A Sample Management System on the BIO Cyber mainframe using System 2000 DBMS, provides direct access to the storage location, procurement, sampling history and processing for the samples. Plots of the samples obtained in 1986 are
included at an approximate scale of 1:1,000,000, 1:6,000,000 and 1:9,000,000. Original scales have been modified slightly by a Zeta 8 plotter.