bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological wellbeing of Turkish university students with physical impairments: An evaluation within the stress‐vulnerability paradigm
Authors: Koca‐Atabey Mujde , Karanci A. Nuray , Dirik Gulay , Aydemir Deniz
Published: November 2010

Generally, universities in developing countries offer little in the way of provisions and support (material, emotional, etc.) for disabled students. Therefore, disabled students experience considerable burdens and barriers in their educational life. This study investigated the psychological wellbeing of disabled Turkish university students by examining influences on stress‐related growth and psychological distress. Disability is defined within the framework of a social model. According to this view, impairment refers to the functional limitation(s) that affect(s) a person's body, whereas disability refers to the loss or limitation of opportunities owing to social, physical or psychological obstacles. Seventy disabled university students with physical impairments were administered a questionnaire package, including a sociodemographic information sheet, Ways of Coping Questionnaire, Stress‐Related Growth Scale, Multidimensional Scale of Social Support, Life Events Inventory, and Brief Symptom Inventory. Snowball sampling was used and voluntary participation was essential. The results showed that disability burden, daily hassles, and helplessness coping were significant predictors of psychological symptoms. For stress‐related growth the only variable that appeared significant was problem‐solving coping. The results pointed out that there may be different pathways to distress and growth. In order to decrease psychological distress and enhance growth in disabled university students, disability awareness programs, changes in the barriers in the academic and physical environments of the university campuses, and coping skills training to increase problem‐focused coping and to combat helplessness may prove to be effective. Reducing daily hassles for the disabled students is likely to contribute to their wellbeing by decreasing their burdens. Also, a more disability‐friendly environment is likely to be empowering for disabled university students.
New Labour and Local Democracy since 1997: Did Things Really Get Better?
Authors: Atkinson Hugh
Published: November 2010

The last 13 years of Labour government witnessed a welter of initiatives designed to reconfigure local democracy. There is no doubt that central local relations were much more positive in tone compared with the period of Thatcherism when conflict and confrontation were the order of the day. But what is the legacy? Running through the government's policy was a strong emphasis on local citizen engagement and citizen empowerment. This is to be welcomed. Yet such initiatives only take on real meaning in the context of a vibrant and autonomous elected local government. On this matter the Labour government fell well short. This was a missed opportunity.
Substrate-induced phenotypic switches of human smooth muscle cells: anin vitrostudy of in-stent restenosis activation pathways
Authors: Guildford Anna L. , Stewart Helen J. S. , Morris Christopher , Santin Matteo
Published: November 2010

In-stent restenosis is a clinical complication following coronary angioplasty caused by the implantation of the metal device in the atherosclerotic vessel. Histological examination has shown a clear contribution of both inflammatory and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) to the deposition of an excess of neointimal tissue. However, the sequence of events leading to clinically relevant restenosis is unknown. This paper aims to study the phenotype of SMCs when adhering on substrates and exposed to biochemical stimuli typical of the early phases of stent implantation. In particular, human SMC phenotype was studied when adhering on extracellular matrix-like material (collagen-rich gel), thrombus-like material (fibrin gel) and stent material (stainless steel) in the presence or absence of a platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) stimulus. Cells on the collagen and fibrin-rich substrates maintained their contractile phenotype. By contrast, cells on stainless steel acquired a secretory phenotype with a proliferation rate 50 per cent higher than cells on the natural substrates. Cells on stainless steel also showed an increase in PDGF-BB receptor expression, thus explaining the increase in proliferation observed when cells were subject to PDGF-BB stimuli. The stainless steel substrate also promoted a different pattern of β1-integrin localization and an altered expression of hyaluronan (HA) synthase isoforms where the synthesis of high-molecular-weight HA seemed to be favoured. These findings highlighted the induction of a phenotypic pattern in SMC by the stainless steel substrate whereby the formation of a HA-rich neointimal tissue is enhanced.
Solar System tests of Hořava–Lifshitz gravity
Authors: Harko Tiberiu , Kovács Zoltan , Lobo Francisco S. N.
Published: November 2010

In the present paper, we consider the possibility of observationally constraining Hořava gravity at the scale of the Solar System, by considering the classical tests of general relativity (perihelion precession of the planet Mercury, deflection of light by the Sun and the radar echo delay) for the spherically symmetric black hole Kehagias–Sfetsos solution of Hořava–Lifshitz gravity. All these gravitational effects can be fully explained in the framework of the vacuum solution of Hořava gravity. Moreover, the study of the classical general relativistic tests also constrains the free parameter of the solution. From the analysis of the perihelion precession of the planet Mercury, we obtain for the free parameterωof the Kehagias–Sfetsos solution the constraintω≥3.212×10−26 cm−2, the deflection of light by the Sun givesω≥4.589×10−26 cm−2, while the radar echo delay observations can be explained if the value ofωsatisfies the constraintω≥9.179×10−26 cm−2.
Excitability in ramped systems: the compost-bomb instability
Authors: Wieczorek S. , Ashwin P. , Luke C. M. , Cox P. M.
Published: November 2010

The paper studies a novel excitability type where a large excitable response appears when a system’s parameter is varied gradually, or ramped, above some critical rate. This occurs even though there is a (unique) stable quiescent state for any fixed setting of the ramped parameter. We give a necessary and a sufficient condition for the existence of a critical ramping rate in a general class of slow–fast systems with folded slow (critical) manifold. Additionally, we derive an analytical condition for the critical rate by relating the excitability threshold to a canard trajectory through a folded saddle singularity. The general framework is used to explain a potential climate tipping point termed the ‘compost-bomb instability’—an explosive release of soil carbon from peatlands into the atmosphere occurs above some critical rate of global warming even though there is a unique asymptotically stable soil carbon equilibrium for any fixed atmospheric temperature.
Landscape-moderated biodiversity effects of agri-environmental management: a meta-analysis
Authors: Batáry Péter , Báldi András , Kleijn David , Tscharntke Teja
Published: November 2010

Agri-environmental management (AEM) is heralded as being key to biodiversity conservation on farmland, yet results of these schemes have been mixed, making their general utility questionable. We test with meta-analysis whether the benefits of AEM for species richness and abundance of plants and animals are determined by the surrounding landscape context. Across all studies (109 observations for species richness and 114 observations for abundance), AEM significantly increased species richness and their abundance. More specifically, we test the hypothesis that AEM benefits species richness and abundance (i.e. increases the difference between fields with and without AEM) more in simple than in complex landscapes. In croplands, species richness but not abundance was significantly enhanced in simple but not in complex landscapes. In grasslands, AEM effectively enhanced species richness and abundance regardless of landscape context. Pollinators were significantly enhanced by AEM in simple but not in complex landscapes in both croplands and grasslands. Our results highlight that the one-size-fits-all approach of many agri-environmental programmes is not an efficient way of spending the limited funds available for biodiversity conservation on farmland. Therefore, we conclude that AEM should be adapted to landscape structure and the species groups at which they are targeted.
Octopamine and occupancy: an aminergic mechanism for intruder–resident aggression in crickets
Authors: Rillich Jan , Schildberger Klaus , Stevenson Paul A.
Published: November 2010

Aggression is a behavioural strategy for securing resources (food, mates and territory) and its expression is strongly influenced by their presence and value. While it is known that resource holders are generally highly aggressive towards intruding consexuals and usually defeat them, the underlying neuronal mechanisms are not known. In a novel intruder–resident paradigm for field crickets (Gryllus bimaculatus), we show that otherwise submissive losers of a preceding aggressive encounter readily fight and often defeat aggressive winners after occupying an artificial shelter. This aggression enhancing effect first became evident after 2 min residency, and was maximal after 15 min, but absent 15 min after shelter removal. The residency effect was abolished following non-selective depletion of biogenic amines from the central nervous system using reserpine, or semi-selective depletion of octopamine and dopamine using α-methyl-tyrosine, but not following serotonin depletion using α-methyl-tryptophan. The residency effect was also abolished by the treatment with phentolamine, an α-adrenergic receptor antagonist, or epinastine, a highly selective octopamine receptor blocker, but not by propranolol, a ß-adrenergic receptor antagonist, or by yohimbine, an insect tyramine receptor blocker. We conclude that crickets evaluate residency as a rewarding experience that promotes aggressive motivation via a mechanism involving octopamine, the invertebrate analogue of noradrenaline.
The hexosamine biosynthetic pathway couples growth factor-induced glutamine uptake to glucose metabolism
Authors: Wellen Kathryn E. , Lu Chao , Mancuso Anthony , Lemons Johanna M.S. , Ryczko Michael , Dennis James W. , Rabinowitz Joshua D. , Coller Hilary A. , Thompson Craig B.
Published: November 2010

Glucose and glutamine serve as the two primary carbon sources in proliferating cells, and uptake of both nutrients is directed by growth factor signaling. Although either glucose or glutamine can potentially support mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle integrity and ATP production, we found that glucose deprivation led to a marked reduction in glutamine uptake and progressive cellular atrophy in multiple mammalian cell types. Despite the continuous presence of growth factor and an abundant supply of extracellular glutamine, interleukin-3 (IL-3)-dependent cells were unable to maintain TCA cycle metabolite pools or receptor-dependent signal transduction when deprived of glucose. This was due at least in part to down-regulation of IL-3 receptor α (IL-3Rα) surface expression in the absence of glucose. Treatment of glucose-starved cells with N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) to maintain hexosamine biosynthesis restored mitochondrial metabolism and cell growth by promoting IL-3-dependent glutamine uptake and metabolism. Thus, glucose metabolism through the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway is required to sustain sufficient growth factor signaling and glutamine uptake to support cell growth and survival.
Accurate inference of transcription factor binding from DNA sequence and chromatin accessibility data
Authors: Pique-Regi Roger , Degner Jacob F. , Pai Athma A. , Gaffney Daniel J. , Gilad Yoav , Pritchard Jonathan K.
Published: November 2010

Accurate functional annotation of regulatory elements is essential for understanding global gene regulation. Here, we report a genome-wide map of 827,000 transcription factor binding sites in human lymphoblastoid cell lines, which is comprised of sites corresponding to 239 position weight matrices of known transcription factor binding motifs, and 49 novel sequence motifs. To generate this map, we developed a probabilistic framework that integrates cell- or tissue-specific experimental data such as histone modifications and DNase I cleavage patterns with genomic information such as gene annotation and evolutionary conservation. Comparison to empirical ChIP-seq data suggests that our method is highly accurate yet has the advantage of targeting many factors in a single assay. We anticipate that this approach will be a valuable tool for genome-wide studies of gene regulation in a wide variety of cell types or tissues under diverse conditions.
Central synaptic mechanisms underlie short-term olfactory habituation in Drosophila larvae
Authors: Larkin Aoife , Karak Somdatta , Priya Rashi , Das Abhijit , Ayyub Champakali , Ito Kei , Rodrigues Veronica , Ramaswami Mani
Published: November 2010

Naive Drosophila larvae show vigorous chemotaxis toward many odorants including ethyl acetate (EA). Chemotaxis toward EA is substantially reduced after a 5-min pre-exposure to the odorant and recovers with a half-time of ∼20 min. An analogous behavioral decrement can be induced without odorant-receptor activation through channelrhodopsin-based, direct photoexcitation of odorant sensory neurons (OSNs). The neural mechanism of short-term habituation (STH) requires the (1) rutabaga adenylate cyclase; (2) transmitter release from predominantly GABAergic local interneurons (LNs); (3) GABA-A receptor function in projection neurons (PNs) that receive excitatory inputs from OSNs; and (4) NMDA-receptor function in PNs. These features of STH cannot be explained by simple sensory adaptation and, instead, point to plasticity of olfactory synapses in the antennal lobe as the underlying mechanism. Our observations suggest a model in which NMDAR-dependent depression of the OSN-PN synapse and/or NMDAR-dependent facilitation of inhibitory transmission from LNs to PNs contributes substantially to short-term habituation.
Distinct Gene Expression Profiles in Egg and Synergid Cells of Rice as Revealed by Cell Type-Specific Microarrays
Authors: Ohnishi Takayuki , Takanashi Hideki , Mogi Mirai , Takahashi Hirokazu , Kikuchi Shunsuke , Yano Kentaro , Okamoto Takashi , Fujita Masahiro , Kurata Nori , Tsutsumi Nobuhiro
Published: November 2010

Double fertilization in flowering plants refers to a process in which two sperm cells, carried by the pollen tube, fertilize both the egg and the central cell after their release into a synergid cell of the female gametophyte. The molecular processes by which the female gametophytic cells express their unique functions during fertilization are not well understood. Genes expressed in egg and synergid cells might be important for multiple stages of the plant reproductive process. Here, we profiled genome-wide gene expression in egg and synergid cells in rice (Oryza sativa), a model monocot, using a nonenzymatic cell isolation technique. We found that the expression profiles of the egg and synergid cells were already specified at the micropylar end of the female gametophyte during the short developmental period that comprises the three consecutive mitotic nuclear divisions after megaspore generation. In addition, we identified a large number of genes expressed in the rice egg and synergid cells and characterized these genes using Gene Ontology analysis. The analysis suggested that epigenetic and posttranscriptional regulatory mechanisms are involved in the specification and/or maintenance of these cells. Comparisons between the rice profiles and reported Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) profiles revealed that genes enriched in the egg/synergid cell of rice were distinct from those in Arabidopsis.
Expression of Arabidopsis pathogenesis‐related genes during nematode infection
Authors: HAMAMOUCH NOUREDDINE , LI CHUNYING , SEO PIL JOON , PARK CHUNG‐MO , DAVIS ERIC L.
Published: November 2010

The expression pattern of pathogenesis‐related genes PR‐1 to PR‐5 was examined in the roots and leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana plants on infection with beet‐cyst (Heterodera schachtii) and root‐knot (Meloidogyne incognita) nematodes. During H. schachtii parasitism of Arabidopsis, the expression of PR‐1, PR‐2 and PR‐5, which are considered to be markers for salicylic acid (SA)‐dependent systemic acquired resistance (SAR), was induced in both roots and leaves of infected plants. In addition, the expression of PR‐3 and PR‐4, which are used as markers for jasmonic acid (JA)‐dependent SAR, was not altered in roots, but in the leaves of H. schachtii‐infected plants, the expression PR‐3 was induced, whereas the expression of PR‐4 was down‐regulated. During M. incognita infection of Arabidopsis, the expression of PR‐1, PR‐2 and PR‐5 was highly induced in roots, as was PR‐3 to a lesser extent, but the expression of PR‐4 was not altered, indicating that infection with M. incognita activated both SA‐ and JA‐dependent SAR in roots. However, all PRgenes examined (PR‐1 to PR‐5) were down‐regulated in the leaves of M. incognita‐infected plants, suggesting the suppression of both SA‐ and JA‐dependent SAR. Furthermore, constitutive expression of a single PR in Arabidopsis altered the transcription patterns of other PR genes, and the over‐expression of PR‐1 reduced successful infection by both H. schachtii and M. incognita, whereas the over‐expression of PR‐3 reduced host susceptibility to M. incognita but had no effect on H. schachtii parasitism. The results suggest that fundamental differences in the mechanisms of infection by beet‐cyst and root‐knot nematodes differentially regulate PR protein production and mobilization within susceptible host plants.
Morphology of the Filiform Lingual Papillae in Porcupine (Hystrix cristata)
Authors: Karan M. , Yilmaz S. , Aydin A.
Published: November 2010

With 3 figures

The light and scanning electron microscopic structure of the filiform lingual papillae was studied in five adult porcupine (three males and two females). The tongue was characterised by a round tip, a rostral median sulcus and a deep lingual fossa which was situated just rostral to a prominent inter‐molar eminence corresponding to a torus linguae. The filiform papillae were curved, enclosed a large connective tissue core and were separated by wide inter‐papillary zones covered by a thick epithelium. Most filiform papillae had a cylindrical shape, but the rostral and central parts of the tongue contained a number of flat, comb‐shaped papillae with rounded tips.
How Many Mandibles in a Mammal? A Note on Terminology
Authors: Kierdorf U.
Published: November 2010

This paper briefly reviews the usage of the term ‘mandible’ in the anatomical literature on mammals, with a focus on human and veterinary anatomy. In all analysed textbooks of human anatomy and physical anthropology as well as in several veterinary anatomy textbooks, the mandible is viewed as a single (unpaired) skeletal element composed of symmetrical (left and right) halves that correspond to the ossa dentalia of comparative anatomical terminology. Other authors, however, maintain that each mammal possesses a left and a right mandible, thus equating the mammalian mandible with the os dentale. The view of the presence of two mandibles per mammal is frequently found in textbooks of comparative vertebrate anatomy. Students of anatomy and workers from neighbouring disciplines need to be aware of the inconsistent use of the term mandible to avoid misunderstandings.
Apolipoprotein E and central nervous system disorders: Reviews of clinical findings
Authors: Takeda Masatoshi , Martínez Rocío , Kudo Takashi , Tanaka Toshihisa , Okochi Masayasu , Tagami Shinji , Morihara Takashi , Hashimoto Ryota , Cacabelos Ramón
Published: November 2010

Dementia is a major health problem in developed countries with over 25 million people affected worldwide and probably over 75 million people at risk during the next 20 years. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most frequent cause of dementia (50–70%), followed by vascular dementia (30–40%), and mixed dementia (15–20%). AD pathogenesis is still to be elucidated but it is believed to be the complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors in later life. Three causative genes for familial AD have been identified: amyloid precursor protein, presenilin‐1, and presenilin‐2. There are 150 genes involved with increased neuronal vulnerability to premature death in the AD brain. Among these susceptibility genes, the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene is the most prevalent as a risk for AD pathogenic process in which complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors are involved, leading to a cascade of pathogenic events converging in final pathways to premature neuronal death. Some of these mechanisms are common to several neurodegenerative disorders that differ depending upon the genes affected and the involvement of environmental conditions.

ApoE is a key lipoprotein in lipid and cholesterol metabolism and it is also the major risk gene for AD and many other central nervous system disorders. The pathogenic role of ApoE‐4 is still to be clarified; however, diverse evidence suggests that ApoE may play pleiotropic functions in dementia and central nervous system disorders.
Health‐related quality of life among community‐dwelling patients with intractable neurological diseases and their caregivers in Japan
Authors: Miyashita Mitsunori , Narita Yugo , Sakamoto Aki , Kawada Norikazu , Akiyama Miki , Kayama Mami , Suzukamo Yoshimi , Fukuhara Shunichi
Published: November 2010

Aims:  The aims of this study were: (i) to clarify the general quality of life (QOL) of patients with intractable neurological disease; (ii) to clarify the general QOL of the caregivers of these patients; and (iii) to explore the association of QOL in patient–caregiver pairs.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional survey was conducted between November 2003 and May 2004 among community‐dwelling patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD), spinocerebellar degeneration (SCD), multiple system atrophy (MSA), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and their caregivers using a mailed, self‐administered questionnaire. To measure QOL, we used the Medical Outcome Study 36‐Item Short Form (SF‐36) for patients and the short form of the health‐related QOL scale SF‐36 (SF‐8) for caregivers.

Results:  A total of 418 questionnaires were analyzed. For the patients, all of the general QOL domains of the SF‐36 were significantly lower than the national standard value for all of the diagnoses. Physical function, role physical, and role emotional domains were also low. For caregivers, all of the QOL summary scores of the SF‐8 for all diagnoses were significantly lower than the national standard value. Although there were several significant correlations of QOL between patients and caregivers, overall the correlations were low.

Conclusions:  Support for patients with neurological diseases and their caregivers is needed in order to maintain physical and mental QOL.
THEORETICAL AND EMPIRICAL SHORTCOMINGS OF THE KALECKIAN INVESTMENT FUNCTION
Authors: Skott Peter
Published: November 2010

The accumulation function is critical for the properties and implications of structuralist and post‐Keynesian growth models, but there is considerable disagreement over the specification of this function. A large Kaleckian literature extends the standard short‐run ‘Keynesian stability condition’ to the long run by assuming that long‐run accumulation is relatively insensitive to variations in the utilization rate of capital. The Kaleckian position has been defended by Dutt and Lavoie, among others. This paper examines the defense and finds it unconvincing: the Kaleckian specification of the accumulation function is behaviorally implausible and lacks empirical support.
Lifespan extension by increased expression of the Drosophila homologue of the IGFBP7 tumour suppressor
Authors: Alic Nazif , Hoddinott Matthew P. , Vinti Giovanna , Partridge Linda
Published: November 2010

Mammals possess multiple insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) binding proteins (IGFBPs), and related proteins, that modulate the activity of insulin/IGF signalling (IIS), a conserved neuroendocrine signalling pathway that affects animal lifespan. Here, we examine if increased levels of an IGFBP‐like protein can extend lifespan, using Drosophila as the model organism. We demonstrate that Imaginal morphogenesis protein‐Late 2 (IMP‐L2), a secreted protein and the fly homologue of the human IGFBP7 tumour suppressor, is capable of binding at least two of the seven Drosophila insulin‐like peptides (DILPs), namely native DILP2 and DILP5 as present in the adult fly. Increased expression of Imp‐L2 results in phenotypic changes in the adult consistent with down‐regulation of IIS, including accumulation of eIF‐4E binding protein mRNA, increase in storage lipids, reduced fecundity and enhanced oxidative stress resistance. Increased Imp‐L2 results in up‐regulation of dilp2, dilp3 and dilp5 mRNA, revealing a feedback circuit that is mediated via the fly gut and/or fat body. Importantly, over‐expression of Imp‐L2, ubiquitous or restricted to DILP‐producing cells or gut and fat body, extends lifespan. This enhanced longevity can also be observed upon adult‐onset induction of Imp‐L2, indicating it is not attributable to developmental changes. Our findings point to the possibility that an IGFBP or a related protein, such as IGFBP7, plays a role in mammalian aging.
Restoration of senescent human diploid fibroblasts by modulation of the extracellular matrix
Authors: Choi Hae Ri , Cho Kyung A , Kang Hyun Tae , Lee Jung Bin , Kaeberlein Matt , Suh Yousin , Chung In Kwon , Park Sang Chul
Published: November 2010

Human diploid fibroblasts have the capacity to complete a finite number of cell divisions before entering a state of replicative senescence characterized by growth arrest, changes in morphology, and altered gene expression. Herein, we report that interaction with extracellular matrix (ECM) from young cells is sufficient to restore aged, senescent cells to an apparently youthful state. The identity of the restored cells as having been derived from senescent cells has been confirmed by a variety of methods, including time lapse live cell imaging and DNA finger print analysis. In addition to cell morphology, phenotypic restoration was assessed by resumption of proliferative potential, growth factor responsiveness, reduction of intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, recovery of mitochondrial membrane potential, and increased telomere length. Mechanistically, we find that both Ku and SIRT1 are induced during restoration and are required for senescent cells to return to a youthful phenotype. These observations demonstrate that human cellular senescence is profoundly influenced by cues from the ECM, and that senescent cell plasticity is much greater than that was previously believed to be the case.
Mitochondrially encoded methionine is inversely related to longevity in mammals
Authors: Aledo Juan Carlos , Li Yang , de Magalhães João Pedro , Ruíz‐Camacho Manuel , Pérez‐Claros Juan Antonio
Published: November 2010

Methionine residues in proteins react readily with reactive oxygen species making them particularly sensitive to oxidation. However, because oxidized methionine can be reduced back in a catalyzed reaction, it has been suggested that methionine residues act as oxidant scavengers, protecting not only the proteins where they are located but also the surrounding macromolecules. To investigate whether methionine residues may be selected for or against animal longevity, we carried out a meta‐examination of mitochondrial genomes from mammalian species. Our analyses unveiled a hitherto unnoticed observation: mitochondrially encoded polypeptides from short‐lived species are enriched in methionine when compared with their long‐lived counterparts. We show evidence suggesting that methionine addition to proteins in short‐lived species, rather than methionine loss from proteins in long‐lived species, is behind the reported difference in methionine usage. The inverse association between longevity and methionine, which persisted after correction for body mass and phylogenetic interdependence, was paralleled by the methionine codon AUA, but not by the codon AUG. Although nuclear encoded mitochondrial polypeptides exhibited higher methionine usage than nonmitochondrial proteins, correlation with longevity was only found within the group of those polypeptides located in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Based on these results, we propose that short‐lived animals subjected to higher oxidative stress selectively accumulate methionine in their mitochondrially encoded proteins, which supports the role of oxidative damage in aging.
Ser352 and Ser354 in the carboxyl terminus of the human P2Y1 receptor are required for agonist‐promoted phosphorylation and internalization in MDCK cells
Authors: Qi Ai‐Dong , Houston‐Cohen Dayle , Naruszewicz Isabella , Harden T Kendall , Nicholas Robert A
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The P2Y1 receptor promotes chloride secretion in epithelial cells, a process critical for regulation of extracellular ion and fluid levels. Here we have examined the role of phosphorylation in agonist‐induced internalization of P2Y1 receptors.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH A high‐affinity radiolabelled antagonist, MRS2500, was used to quantify cell surface‐binding sites of P2Y1 receptors in Madin‐Darby canine kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells, following exposure to agonists. The regions in the carboxyl terminus involved in both agonist‐induced internalization of the receptor and its phosphorylation were identified by mutational analysis.

KEY RESULTS Endogenous and stably expressed recombinant P2Y1 receptors rapidly internalized with similar time courses in response to agonist in MDCK cells, ensuring that the levels of recombinant receptor achieved by retroviral infection did not adversely affect function of the internalization machinery. Four protein kinase C inhibitors of varying specificity did not affect internalization of recombinant receptors. Agonist‐promoted internalization of a series of truncated P2Y1 receptors identified a region between residues 349 and 359 in the carboxyl terminus as critical for regulation. Two amino acids within this region, Ser352 and Ser354, were shown to be both necessary and sufficient for agonist‐promoted receptor phosphorylation and internalization.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our results firmly establish Ser352 and Ser354 in the carboxyl terminus of P2Y1 receptors as critical residues for agonist‐induced receptor internalization in MDCK cells. As the mechanism mediating this regulation requires phosphorylation of these key residues, the relevant receptor‐regulated protein kinase can now be identified.
From sustainable transport development to active citizenship and participatory democracy: The experience of Living City in Chile
Authors: Sagaris Lake
Published: November 2010

Increasingly, the search for sustainable transport has reflected the awareness that cycling, walking and the liveable cities that encourage these activities lie at the centre of any effective strategy. While citizens' groups are often encouraged, instructed or expected to support these initiatives, to date, there have been few studies of how these citizens' groups work. This article examines how a partnership between Living City (Ciudad Viva), a community‐based organization; Interface for Cycling Expertise, a Dutch non‐governmental organization; and Metropolitan Santiago's regional government applied collaborative planning and other methods to build effective processes for more cycling‐inclusive transport policies in Santiago, Chile. The resulting actors' ecologies mobilized substantial knowledge and goodwill. After just three years, cycling had become a presidential priority, cycling infrastructure design skills had improved substantially, and both politicians and citizens had made significant commitments to more cycling‐ and walking‐friendly urban environments. This study provides insights into the nuts and bolts of how some civil society organizations develop, what they can contribute to sustainable transport and what environments and support they need to be effective.
A Partial Defense of Illocutionary Silencing
Authors: McGowan Mary Kate , Adelman Alexandra , Helmers Sara , Stolzenberg Jacqueline
Published: November 2010

Catharine MacKinnon has pioneered a new brand of anti-pornography argument. In particular, MacKinnon claims that pornography silences women in a way that violates their right to free speech. In what follows, we focus on a certain account of silencing put forward by Jennifer Hornsby and Rae Langton, and we defend that account against two important objections. The first objection contends that this account makes a crucial but false assumption about the necessary role of hearer recognition in successful speech acts. In response, we argue that, as silencing primarily concerns communication, Hornsby and Langton are perfectly correct to treat hearer recognition as they do. The second objection contends that their particular account of silencing has the unacceptable result of undermining the responsibility of rapists. We here argue that no such result follows from their account.
Older male labour force participation in OECD countries: Pension reform and “the reserve army of labour”
Authors: O'BRIEN Martin
Published: November 2010

Many governments have treated older workers as a “reserve army of labour”, allowing early exit from the labour force by various means, so the OECD recommends that the fiscal strain associated with population ageing be addressed through pension reform to increase older workers’ labour force participation. Modelling the labour force participation of males aged 55–59 and 60–64 in 12 OECD countries over the period 1967–2007, the author finds that labour market variables dominate pension reform variables – and country‐specific causal factors also – in explaining older males’ participation rates. Without consideration of labour market conditions, the OECD's standard prescription of pension reform would thus seem doomed to fail.
Flexicurity in Belgium: A reform proposal based on economic principles
Authors: Cockx Bart , Van der Linden Bruno
Published: November 2010

Belgium's systems of unemployment insurance and employment protection legislation were set up in the context of typically enduring and stable relationships between workers and firms. Economic globalization and rapid technological and organizational change, however, are now demanding more flexibility of both workers and firms. As a result, current labour market institutions are in urgent need of reform to reconcile such increased flexibility with adequate security for workers. Though the call for a “flexicurity” approach is not new, there is no single view of what institutional model the latter implies. This paper proposes a reform explicitly guided by economic principles.
The specific star formation rate of high redshift galaxies: the case for two modes of star formation
Authors: Khochfar Sadegh , Silk Joseph
Published: November 2010

We study the specific star formation rate (SSFR) and its evolution at z ≳ 4, in models of galaxy formation, where the star formation is driven by cold accretion flows. We show that constant star formation and feedback efficiencies cannot reproduce the observed trend of SSFR with stellar mass and its observed lack of evolution at z > 4. Model galaxies with log (M*) ≲ 9.5 M⊙ show systematically lower SSFRs by orders of magnitudes, while massive galaxies with M* ≳ 5 × 1010 M⊙ have up to an order of magnitude larger SSFRs, compared to recent observations by Stark et al. To recover these observations we apply an empirical star formation efficiency in galaxies that scales with the host halo velocity dispersion as ∝ 1/σ3 during galaxy mergers. We find that this modification needs to be of stochastic nature to reproduce the observations, i.e. only applied during mergers and not during accretion driven star formation phases. Our choice of star formation efficiency during mergers allows us to capture both, the boost in star formation at low masses and the quenching at high masses, and at the same time produce a constant SSFR–stellar mass relation at z ≳ 4 under the assumption that most of the observed galaxies are in a merger-triggered star formation phase. Our results suggest that observed high-z low-mass galaxies with high SSFRs are likely to be frequently interacting systems, which experienced bursts in their star formation rate and efficiency (mode 1), in contrast to low redshift z ≲ 3 galaxies which are cold accretion-regulated star forming systems with lower star formation efficiencies (mode 2).
Global Imbalances and the Financial Crisis: Reassessing the Role of International Finance
Authors: BORIO Claudio , DISYATAT Piti
Published: November 2010

Global current account imbalances have recently been singled out by many as a key factor contributing to the global financial crisis. Current account surpluses in several emerging market economies are said to have put significant downward pressure on world interest rates, thereby fueling a credit boom and risk taking in major advanced economies with current account deficits (the “excess saving” view). We argue that this perspective on global imbalances bears reconsideration. We highlight two conceptual problems: (i) explaining market interest rates through the saving‐investment framework; and (ii) drawing inferences about a country's cross‐border financing activity based on observations of net capital flows. We trace the shortcomings of this perspective to a failure to consider the distinguishing characteristics of a monetary (credit) economy. We conjecture that the main macroeconomic cause of the financial crisis was not “excess saving” but the “excess elasticity” of the international monetary and financial system.
China as Number One: How about the Renminbi?
Authors: ITO Takatoshi
Published: November 2010

Using simulations projecting Chinese economic growth into the future, this paper first examines when China will overtake the USA to become the largest economy. Demographic changes that affect economic growth are taken into consideration in these projections. China is expected to become number one sometime in the mid‐2020s, unless its growth rate of gross domestic product per worker declines dramatically, à la the lost decade of Japan. Next, the paper examines whether China becoming the number one economy will mean its currency, the renminbi (RMB), will become the international key currency. According to the basket currency regressions during the period that Chinese currency was gradually appreciating against the US dollar from July 2005 to August 2008, it is shown that the RMB has already acquired a strong influence on the Asian currencies. This shows that the RMB is fast gaining the status of a regional anchor currency for a possible regional joint float. As the Chinese government proceeds with internationalization of its currency, the RMB is expected to gain in the ranking of other aspects of international currency, such as the store of value and the medium of exchange.
Vieillissement de la population active et gestion stratégique des ressources humaines: problèmes de dotation des administrations de sécurité sociale
Authors: McKinnon Roddy
Published: November 2010

L'emploi dans le service public des pays à revenu élevé a augmenté rapidement dans les années 1970 et au début des années 1980. Durant cette période, le secteur de la protection sociale a été l'un de ceux qui ont connu une croissance des plus rapides. Or, bon nombre des employés du service public qui ont été embauchés au cours des dernières années ont pris ou prendront bientôt leur retraite. En conséquence, les administrations de sécurité sociale dans la zone de l'OCDE vont perdre une part importante de leur effectif actuel, tous échelons confondus, sur une période relativement courte. Toutefois, malgré, d'une part, les appels à un recours plus fréquent à la planification stratégique du personnel et, d'autre part, la prise de conscience croissante des défis que pose le vieillissement des effectifs du service public, les institutions de services publics, y compris les administrations de sécurité sociale, ont tardéà agir. Le présent article se penche sur les défis de gestion des ressources humaines (GRH) que des administrations de sécurité sociale doivent relever en raison du vieillissement des effectifs du secteur public, décrit les propositions de réponses politiques et évalue les difficultés pour les mettre efficacement et systématiquement en œuvre.
Applicability of mitochondrial DNA for the identification of Arvicolid species from faecal samples: a case study from the threatened Cabrera’s vole
Authors: ALASAAD SAMER , SORIGUER RAMÓN C. , JOWERS MICHAEL J. , MARCHAL JUAN A. , ROMERO ISMAEL , SÁNCHEZ ANTONIO
Published: November 2010

Arvicolid mitochondrial genomes evolve faster than in any other mammalian lineage. The genetic diversity exhibited by these rodents contrasts sharply with their phenotypic homogeneity. Furthermore, faecal droppings from Arvicolid rodents of similar body size are almost undistinguishable on the basis of pellet morphology and content. In this study, we advantaged from their high genetic diversity vs. phenotypic homogeneity to document the applicability of mtDNA extraction from vole droppings for latter identification of such via a rapid and efficient nested PCR‐based technique using the threatened Microtus cabrerae as a model species. We sequenced the mitochondrial control region from 75 individuals belonging to 11 species of Arvicolinae from Spain, Portugal, Greece and Italy, and an additional 19 sequences from ten Microtus species from other countries were downloaded from Genbank. Based on these control region sequences, we successfully designed and applied a nested PCR for M. cabrerae‐specific and arvicolid‐generic mtDNA markers to differentiate Cabrera’s vole faecal samples among other species of the Arvicolinae subfamily. Although this study used Cabrera’s vole as a model species, similar techniques based on mtDNA sequences may find a broader applicability for noninvasive genetic conservation of vole species and their populations.
The role of reference body selection in calculating posterior corneal elevation and prediction of keratoconus using rotating Scheimpflug camera
Authors: Kovács Illés , Miháltz Kata , Ecsedy Mónika , Németh János , Nagy Zoltán Z
Published: November 2010

Purpose:  To explore the effects of corneal astigmatism and asphericity on posterior elevation values calculated by different reference bodies and to compare their predictive accuracy in the diagnosis of keratoconus.

Methods:  In this prospective observational case series, 44 eyes of 24 patients with keratoconus and 70 eyes of 41 refractive surgery candidates as a control group were measured by the Pentacam Scheimpflug camera. Discriminating ability and predictors of posterior elevation measurements obtained by best fit toric ellipsoid (BFTE) and best fit sphere (BFS) reference surfaces were compared by receiver operator characteristic curves (ROC) and generalized estimating equation (GEE) models. Bland–Altman plots were used to determine the agreement between different reference surfaces.

Results:  Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis showed that posterior elevation measured by a BFTE auto had a significantly higher area under ROC curves (0.99) value than BFTE 8‐mm or BFS reference surfaces. ROC analysis identified cut‐off values for BFTE auto (9.5‐μm), for BFTE 8‐mm (10.5‐μm), for BFS auto (16.5‐μm) and for BFS 8‐mm (15.5‐μm) reference surfaces. According to GEE models, corneal cylinder and posterior asphericity had the least effect in toric ellipsoid models. Bland–Altman plots showed a systematic bias at higher values of average posterior elevation measured BFS reference surfaces.

Conclusions:  Posterior corneal elevation value measured by the Pentacam camera can effectively discriminate keratoconus from normal corneas although measured values and cut‐off points depend on the selection of reference body and corneal asphericity. Toric ellipsoid reference surface seems to be the most sensitive method to differentiate keratoconus.
Judicial Response to Elder Abuse
Authors: Aileen Howze Judge Karen , White Jennifer L.
Published: November 2010

Reported cases of elder abuse are increasing throughout the United States. At the same time, identification of elder abuse issues by courts is considered “fair” or “poor.” To address the increased numbers of reported cases—particularly those where the victim is in an ongoing, trusted relationship with his or her perpetrator—the justice system must develop a concerted approach to resolving elder abuse cases. Along with the identification of the various forms and definitions of elder abuse, the courts face numerous challenges including the lack of reliable data and research on this form of abuse; the lack of laws, legal precedent, or appropriate remedies in elder abuse cases; complex evidentiary challenges; issues of victim capacity and victim choice, as well as assumptions about age and aging, limited resources, and the lack of a coordinated community response to elder abuse.
The New Age of Stalking: Technological Implications for Stalking
Authors: Fraser Cynthia , Olsen Erica , Lee Kaofeng , Southworth Cindy , Tucker Sarah
Published: November 2010

Technology has led to tremendous advancements in our society but has also brought more danger to victims of stalking and given more tools for stalkers to use. New technology has made it more difficult for prosecutors and judges to hold stalkers accountable for their crimes, and without an understanding of how technology is misused by stalkers to track and monitor their victims, many victims don't get the justice they deserve. This article addresses the tremendous impact of technology on stalking, especially within the context of intimate partner stalking.
Acupuncture for chronic neck pain
Authors: Lim D
Published: November 2010

Sahin N, Ozcan E, Sezen K, Karatas O, Issever H.

Efficacy of acupuncture in patients with chronic neck pain – a randomised, sham controlled trial.

Acupunct Electrother Res 2010; 35: 17–27.
Crystal Structure of the Eukaryotic Ribosome
Authors: Ben-Shem Adam , Jenner Lasse , Yusupova Gulnara , Yusupov Marat
Published: November 2010

Macromolecular Message Translation

The ribosome is a macromolecular machine that translates the sequence of messenger RNA into proteins in all living cells. Structures of prokaryotic ribosomes have supplied insight into the conserved features of such protein synthesis; however, eukaryotic translation has additional levels of complexity.

Ben-Shem
et al.

(p.
1203
) have determined the crystal structure of the yeast 80S ribosome at 4.15 angstrom resolution. The ribosome is in a ratcheted conformation, which is a state that is an intermediate in the translocation of messenger RNA and transfer RNA. The crystal structure provides the molecular underpinning for existing biochemical and genetic data and will inform the design of functional experiments.
Motor Control by Sensory Cortex
Authors: Matyas Ferenc , Sreenivasan Varun , Marbach Fred , Wacongne Catherine , Barsy Boglarka , Mateo Celine , Aronoff Rachel , Petersen Carl C. H.
Published: November 2010

By a Whisker

Every student learns that the sensory cortex is used for processing sensation and the motor cortex is used for perceiving movement. However, in the real world, this may not always be so neatly arranged.

Matyas
et al.

(p.
1240
) have found that sensory and motor fields are specialized for different types of movement, such that in mice the motor cortex controlled the forward movement (protraction) of their whiskers and the sensory cortex controlled backwards movements (retraction) of whiskers. So if a whisker hits an object, then a reasonable first reaction might be a motor command for retraction. Similarly, the motor cortex stimulates protraction for more active exploration. Hence, the sensory cortex is also motor and the motor cortex is also sensory. In an ecological context, these combined reactions offer a repertoire useful for a mouse seeking food and shelter in a complex environment.