bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconstruction of geomagnetic activity and near-Earth interplanetary conditions over the past 167 yr – Part 2: A new reconstruction of the interplanetary magnetic field
Authors: Lockwood M. , Barnard L. , Nevanlinna H. , Owens M. J. , Harrison R. G. , Rouillard A. P. , Davis C. J.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. We present a new reconstruction of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF, B) for 1846–2012 with a full analysis of errors, based on the homogeneously constructed IDV(1d) composite of geomagnetic activity presented in Part 1 (Lockwood et al., 2013a). Analysis of the dependence of the commonly used geomagnetic indices on solar wind parameters is presented which helps explain why annual means of interdiurnal range data, such as the new composite, depend only on the IMF with only a very weak influence of the solar wind flow speed. The best results are obtained using a polynomial (rather than a linear) fit of the form B = χ · (IDV(1d) − β)α with best-fit coefficients χ = 3.469, β = 1.393 nT, and α = 0.420. The results are contrasted with the reconstruction of the IMF since 1835 by Svalgaard and Cliver (2010).
Prevalence of obesity among Bangladeshi pregnant women at their first trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Goon Shatabdi
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND: Paradoxically, the escalating global epidemic of maternal obesity coexists with malnutrion in many areas of Bangladesh. This proves a major challenge to obstetric practice from preconception to postpartum due to related comorbid conditions including: maternal death or severe morbidity, gestational diabetes and hypertension, increased risk of early and recurrent miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, thromboembolism, post-caesarean wound infection, postpartum haemorrhage, and low breastfeeding rates. A dramatic increase in birth defects and other pregnancy-induced disorders related to maternal obesity has added millions of dollars to health care costs leading great economical loss to the country.OBJECTIVE: The study was designed to determine the prevalence of obesity among Bangladeshi pregnant women in their 1st trimester of pregnancy.STUDY DESIGN: 426 pregnant women presenting to the antenatal care until of Azimpur maternity hospital of Dhaka, Bangladesh were randomly selected for this cross sectional study to determine their weight status using body mass index (BMI, kg/m2).RESULT: 90 (21.2%) pregnant women were reported as obese with pregnancy BMI of >30 kg/m2. 171 (40.1%) and140 (32.8%) pregnant women were reported as overweight and healthy with pregnancy BMI of 25-29.9 kg/m2 and 18.5-24.9 kg/m2, respectively.Statistical analysis revealed obesity and overweight status were found to be significantly associated with age; women aged 31 or above were more likely to be obese (OR=2.5; 95% CI 1.53–3.96) and overweight (OR=3.3; 95% CI 2.15–4.99).CONCLUSION: This study provides evidence of increasing trends in obesity among Bangladeshi pregnant women, which poses possible health risks both for mother and child. The findings of this study may act as baseline data for monitoring the effectiveness of national programs for the prevention and control of maternal obesity.
A Fatal Defect of Interim Administration? Case Application: Kosovo
Authors: Ondrovič Peter
Published: November 2013

Some studies have suggested that the interim administration (IA) mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) has failed in its aim to transform the society and contributed to a complicated completion of the mission. In this article, primarily reports of the UN General-Secretary (SG) on UNMIK are analyzed to answer the question posed in the title. Important development points during the reporting periods that cover key research areas such as security, political cooperation, Northern Kosovo, ethnic tensions, and violence are analyzed. The transitional process and the mode of transition have been influenced by three important factors that significantly undermined the aim of interim administrators to achieve benchmarks. Moreover, conflicting ethnic interest has emerged as the most influential factor that has had a serious detrimental impact on the mode of transition. The IA has failed to transform individual interests that are still very deeply rooted in the political system and in society. Present diplomatic achievements are still strongly imperiled by a deep hostility in the region, largely because of a chronic ignorance on the part of administrators of the intensity of conflicting ethnic interests. To ensure security in the area an international presence will probably be needed in Kosovo for a very long time.
Potenciál využití soukromých vojenských a bezpečnostních společností nevládními organizacemi
Authors: Nedvědická Vendula
Published: November 2013

The paper deals with private military and security companies (PMSCs) providing their services for non-governmental organisations (NGOs). It includes a brief overview of the security environment from 1990 and how PMSCs have developed since then. There is also an analysis of the motivations behind the NGOs’ decisions to use the services of PMSCs and of cases when their services were used in practise. The paper attempts to explain the basis of the co-operation between these two parties during humanitarian operations and explores services provided by the PMSCs to NGOs. The author also considers the key prerequisites for successful co-operation between these two parties, as well as the other options, if any, which are available to NGOs in the area of security.
Ekonomický personalismus a politika KDU-ČSL
Authors: Stulík Ondřej
Published: November 2013

This article deals with the phenomenon of economics in the doctrine of personalism and its consequences in the sphere of politics. Within this analysis, some economic distinctions between personalism, on the one hand, and libertarianism and neomarxism, on the other, are identified through a focus on the hermeneutics of personalism and its logical ideological results. These results have the form of testable propositions such as a pregnant definition of dignity, support for the concept of workfare, the family as the “core”, and the belief in the social market, which leads to progressive taxation and interventions in the labor market. These propositions are contained in KDU-ČSL policies, explicitly declared in the manifestos “Volební program 2010–2014”, “Volební program 2013–2017”, and other documents, as well as speeches of KDU-ČSL representatives, mainly of the chairman Pavel Bělobrádek. The connection between personalism and KDU-ČSL policies is then tested by metaphor analysis and the outcomes provide answers to two questions – first, whether the theory of personalism is present in KDU-ČSL policies; second, whether the KDU-ČSL could be subsumed under the socio-economic cleavage in the Czech context, and if so, then to which particular space.
REFERENTIALITY OF THE PRONOUNS IT AND THAT IN COPULAR SENTENCES
Authors: Kumamoto Chiaki
Published: November 2013

The aim of this paper is to clarify the referential status of it and that used as the subject of specificational sentences. Whether considered to be referential or non-referential, these pronouns are often treated similarly in the literature, their functional differences being hardly recognized. After a brief survey of recent literature, it will be argued that both pronouns are connected with the notion of a noun phrase involving a variable, as proposed by Nishiyama (2003), and are considered to be non-referential. It will then be suggested that a specificational sentence with it as its subject assigns the value for a variable, while a specificational sentence with that as its subject confirms the identity of the value which has already been assigned.
AMERICAN REGIONAL LEXICAL SURVEY: GENDER AND AGE IN LEXICAL CHANGE IN THE SOUTHERN UNITED STATES
Authors: Little Carol
Published: November 2013

The American South has always been a distinct linguistic region. Using data from the American Regional Lexical Survey, this study shows the overall decline in use of Southern lexical terms. The following explores these changes in lexical choice in this region by comparing gender over time. Women’s choice to use Southern lexical items decreases whereas men’s usage of Southern lexical items increases significantly in the youngest generation. The results from this survey depict the effects of changing population demographics and labour statistics on choice of lexical item.
BUILDING RAPPORT IN AN ONLINE COMMUNITY VIA POSITIVE POLITENESS STRATEGIES
Authors: Trávníková Petra
Published: November 2013

The present paper concentrates on the role of politeness strategies in on-line groups formed around an Internet message board dedicated to dieting and offering support as well as information. As the concept of weight is a sensitive part of people’s identity, it produces face-threatening acts as defined by Brown and Levinson (1978). It is positive politeness that is said to prevail in women’s and in-group language (Coates 1993, 2003, Holmes 1993, 1995, 2006); hence the aim of this paper is to show which positive politeness strategies are used to minimize these threats and how they differ depending on participants’ sex. Moreover, it also intends to examine how positive politeness strategies function to enhance community spirit and keep an on-line community alive.
Pojetí tacitních znalostí v paradigmatu sjednoceného pole
Authors: Šíp R. , Švec V.
Published: November 2013

Cílem teoretické studie je vyjasnit pojetí tacitních znalostí (TZ). V první části autoři ukazují, v čem tkví hlavní problém současného diskurzu o tacitních znalostech. Jestliže budeme vnímat znalost jako mentální reprezentaci, nemůžeme náležitě pochopit a zkoumat TZ. Ve druhé části za pomocí příkladů z děl J. Deweyho a J. Piageta autoři dokládají, že zde již jedno století existuje alternativní – funkcionální – pojetí znalosti. Třetí část se zaměřuje na definice znalosti a poukazuje na fakt, že problematika takových definic spočívá v tom, že pedagogové a epistemologové nerozhodně stojí mezi tradičním a alternativním paradigmatem (v textu pracovně nazývaných: „paradigma oddělených objektů“ a „paradigma sjednoceného pole“). To vede k mnohým nesrovnalostem v jednotlivých teoriích a k jejich malé použitelnosti v praxi. Ve čtvrté části autoři představují epistemologické pozadí tradičního paradigmatu, aby v části páté poskytli popis pozadí paradigmatu alternativního. Díky tomuto postupu jsou v závěrečné části autoři schopni definovat alternativní pojetí TZ. Docházejí zde ke zjištění, že znalost musíme vnímat jako dynamickou strukturu sjednoceného pole a TZ chápat jako tacitní dimenzi dynamické struktury (TDZ). Teprve takto pochopená tacitní znalost nám umožňuje zkoumat její dimenze.
Společné, či oddělené vzdělávání dívek a chlapců?
Authors: Smetáčková I.
Published: November 2013

Článek porovnává dva základní vyučovací modely z hlediska zastoupení dívek a chlapců – koedukovanou a oddělenou výuku. S využitím zahraničních studií diskutuje pozitivní a negativní stránky obou modelů. Z hlediska genderové rovnosti ve vzdělávání se nereflektovaná koedukace jeví problematická, protože v jejím rámci může snadno docházet k prohlubování genderových stereotypů. Eventuální úvahy o zavedení oddělené výuky dívek a chlapců (po vzoru zahraničních experimentů) by měly zohledňovat žákovský pohled. Článek proto přináší výsledky dotazníkového šetření s účastí 556 žáků/yň 2. stupně základních škol, které mapovalo jejich postoje a zkušenosti s pobytem ve smíšených a oddělených skupinách. Šetření ukázalo, že děti preferují smíšené třídy, avšak zároveň mají zkušenosti se vzájemným genderově motivovaným obtěžováním a genderově stereotypním zacházením ze strany vyučujících.
Inclusão educacional de pessoas com Autismo no Brasil: uma revisão da literatura
Authors: Nunes Débora Regina De Paula , Azevedo Mariana Queiroz Orrico de , Schmidt Carlo
Published: November 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X10178A legislação brasileira determina que todas as crianças devem ter acesso à escola comum, incluindo sujeitos com transtornos do espectro do autismo. Embora um corpo substancial de pesquisas descreva os benefícios derivados da inclusão dessas pessoas, o tema ainda permanece controverso, principalmente quanto à possibilidade das escolas oferecerem respostas adequadas às necessidades de crianças com TEA. O presente artigo tem por objetivo identificar o que as produções científicas nacionais, publicadas entre 2008 e 2013, têm revelado sobre a inclusão de pessoas com TEA no Brasil. Os resultados mostram que a presença desses educandos em escolas regulares aumentou de forma expressiva após a popularização do paradigma da inclusão. Por outro lado, observa-se que o desconhecimento sobre a síndrome e a carência de estratégias pedagógicas específicas pode acarretar poucos efeitos na aprendizagem dessa população.   Palavras-chave: Transtorno do Espectro do Autismo; Inclusão; revisão descritiva
Análise bibliométrica da produção científica sobre comunicação alternativa – uma pesquisa na biblioteca virtual em saúde
Authors: Moreschi Candice Lima , Bello Suzelei Faria , Hayashi Maria Cristina Piumbato Innocentini
Published: November 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X5402Objetivo: identificar nos trabalhos, àqueles que têm como objetivo de estudo a temática da Comunicação Alternativa, na base de dados da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS) de 1981 a 2008. Metodologia: pesquisa documental, quali-quantitativa, nível exploratório-descritivo e envolve as seguintes etapas: 1) seleção do descritor com terminologia definida nos Descritores de Ciência e Saúde (DeCS) 2) levantamento das produções bibliográficas sobre o tema Comunicação Alternativa na BVS; 3) elencar os indicadores e suas correlações: ano; autoria e coautoria; país; fonte de publicação; instituições de origem; objetivos e abordagens metodológicas. Resultados: embora as primeiras pesquisas na área sejam da década de 50, apenas nos anos 80 é que começaram a ser, de fato, divulgadas no meio acadêmico. O ano de 1995, merece destaque, por ter 6 dos 24 trabalhos analisados, desenvolvidos neste ano. Na análise das autorias dos artigos, 62,5% foram escritos em autoria múltipla e apenas 37,5% por um único autor. O país de maior destaque foi os Estados Unidos, onde dezesseis dos vinte e quatro artigos analisados foram escritos. Quanto às fontes de publicação o Jounal of Applied Behavior Analysis, contou com 25% dos trabalhos indexados; quanto as abordagens metodológicas, 50% dos trabalhos analisados optaram pelo método experimental, 29,16% pela abordagem documental e 20,83%, baseados na abordagem bibliográfica. Conclusão: Os estudos interdisciplinares na área da Comunicação Alternativa merecem destaque; investimento em recursos adequados as necessidades dos usuários de Comunicação Alternativa devem sempre fazer parte do rol de pesquisas.
Adaptação curricular e o papel dos conceitos científicos no desenvolvimento de pessoas com necessidades educacionais especiais
Authors: Cenci Adriane , Damiani Magda Floriana
Published: November 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X7675O trabalho fundamenta-se na teoria histórico-cultural, a partir de Vygotski, e nos Parâmetros Curriculares Nacionais: Adaptações Curriculares (1998), objetivando discutir a importância da aprendizagem de conceitos científicos (os conceitos aprendidos mediante instrução formal/escolar) para o desenvolvimento dos alunos com necessidades educacionais especiais. Caracteriza-se como um ensaio teórico, apoiado em pesquisa bibliográfica. O eixo da discussão está na ideia de adaptação/flexibilização curricular, uma vez que não há inclusão real sem considerar a individualização do ensino para atender às especificidades dos alunos. A importância atribuída ao currículo escolar e aos conceitos científicos nele visados assenta-se na premissa vygotskiana de que aprendizagem promove desenvolvimento – de acordo com Vygotski, a sistematização e conscientização entram na mente da criança através do aprendizado dos conceitos científicos. Devido à importância desses conceitos, é preciso cuidado ao pensar nas adaptações curriculares; sob justificativa de adequar o ensino e o currículo às especificidades dos alunos que apresentam necessidades especiais, muitas vezes, se abre mão dos conteúdos formais, pressupondo que não estariam ao alcance desse aluno, especialmente daquele em que as dificuldades são mais acentuadas. Concluiu-se que é a aprendizagem – aprendizagem de conceitos científicos – que alavanca o desenvolvimento cognitivo, então é nesse ponto que a escolarização deve investir. É imperativo lutar por uma escola inclusiva onde, de fato, se aprenda – aprenda conteúdos.
Análise do comportamento aplicada como intervenção para o autismo: definição, características e pressupostos filosóficos
Authors: Camargo Síglia Pimentel Höher , Rispoli Mandy
Published: November 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X9694O transtorno do espectro do autismo (TEA) é um transtorno invasivo do desenvolvimento que persiste por toda a vida e não possui cura nem causas claramente conhecidas. No entanto, sabe-se que intervenções e métodos educacionais com base na análise do comportamento aplicada (do inglês, Applied Behavior Analysis ou ABA) têm promovido uma variedade de habilidades sociais, acadêmicas, de comunicação e comportamentos adaptativos em indivíduos com TEA. O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar a definição, características e pressupostos filosóficos que se encontram nas bases conceituais da ABA e fazem desta ciência um método de intervenção efetivo para  pessoas com autismo.
EARLY DISTANCE INTERVENTION AND FOLLOW-UP FOR FAMILIES OF INFANTS AND TODDLERS AT RISK FOR DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND SEVERE BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS IN PERU
Authors: Oyama-Ganiko Rosa , Mayo-Ortega Liliana , Schroeder Stephen , LeBlanc Judith
Published: November 2013

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X9946A maior barreira para atender às necessidades de crianças com deficiência de baixa renda e suas famílias é a distância suas casas e um centro que ofereça diagnóstico e tratamento. Nos EUA várias maneiras inovadoras para superar essa dificuldade surgiram. Por exemplo, o Call-In, Come-In serviços em prática de Psicologia pediátrica, diagnóstico e consulta através de telemedicina, o uso da Internet para conferências, recursos de biblioteca através da Internet, etc. No entanto, estes serviços ainda não estão disponíveis em muitos países em desenvolvimento ou em áreas rurais os EUA. Apresentamos a seguir um método barato e eficaz de intervenção precoce à distância utilizando oficinas a cada dois meses e acompanhamento mensal por telefone no Centro Ann Sullivan do Peru, em Lima. Enquanto muitas famílias pobres não têm acesso regular à rádio, televisão ou da Internet, nós e outros (Bigelow, Carta, e LeFever, 2008) evidenciamos que quase todas as famílias têm telefones celulares, e elas podem ser acompanhados regularmente através dos mesmos. Em nosso projeto para prevenção precoce de agressão grave, autoagressão e comportamento estereotipado, entre as crianças e bebês em situação de risco de vir a apresentar um desenvolvimento atípico, o atendimento por telefone para acompanhamento mensal manteve-se em nível elevado durante todo o período de seguimento de um ano (92%), enquanto atendimento às famílias nas seis oficinas bimestrais teve uma queda (de 75% para 28%). Os escores médios de freqüência BPI diminuíram significativamente ao longo do ano. Pontuações BPI foram significativamente elevadas, e diminuíram mais no grupo de alta freqüência que no grupo de baixo comparecimento. Estresse familiar foi reduzido em 65% e a satisfação dos consumidores foi de 98%. Um pacote de oficinas muito semelhante foi dado em diversos orfanatos de áreas remotas no Peru, onde não há qualquer tipo de educação sobre deficiência e onde os pais têm de ser os melhores professores. Ter essas ferramentas lhes dá conhecimento daquilo que os seus filhos podem alcançar, de modo que eles não venham a abandoná-los nos orfanatos do governo.
Appropriate Roles for the Subscriber, Publisher, Editor, Author, and Reviewer in the Archives of Plastic Surgery
Authors: Hwang Kun
Published: November 2013

Authors, editors and reviewers, publishers, and subscribers all play their role in scientific journals. These 5 stakeholders are essential to journals. In this paper, firstly, I briefly summarize the role of each journal stakeholder and their respective goals. Secondly, the status of each participant in the Archives of Plastic Surgery is described. Finally, I propose an appropriate role and plan for each of them. Specific roles and responsibilities include the following: subscribers should welcome and submit the critiques of published papers in letters to the editor. Publishers should trust editors and provide them with adequate financial support for ongoing quality improvement of the journal. The editor-in-chief should be given a sufficient period of time-several years-to build up journal quality and train the incoming editor. The editors, including section editors, are also responsible for increasing the author pool. One editor might be designated a 'devil's referee', that is, a kind of devil's advocate with the responsibility of examining the originality of the manuscript, taking a skeptical view of the manuscript, and looking for holes in the methods and results of reported experiments. Authors' responsibilities include submitting manuscripts with scientific integrity and being ready to take responsibility for their articles even long after publication. Finally, reviewers' responsibilities include identifying similar articles not cited. Reviewers are also welcome to write a discussion on the article they review.
The Functionality of Facial Appearance and Its Importance to a Korean Population
Authors: Kim Young Jun , Park Jang Wan , Kim Jeong Min , Park Sun Hyung , Hwang Jae Ha , Kim Kwang Seog , Lee Sam Yong , Shin Jun Ho
Published: November 2013

Background Many people have an interest in the correction of facial scars or deformities caused by trauma. The increasing ability to correct such flaws has been one of the reasons for the increase in the popularity of facial plastic surgery. In addition to its roles in communication, breathing, eating, olfaction and vision, the appearance of the face also plays an important role in human interactions, including during social activities. However, studies on the importance of the functional role of facial appearance. As a function of the face are scare. Therefore, in the present study, we evaluated the importance of the functions of the face in Korea.

Methods We conducted an online panel survey of 300 participants (age range, 20-70 years). Each respondent was administered the demographic data form, Facial Function Assessment Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and standard gamble questionnaires.

Results In the evaluation on the importance of facial functions, a normal appearance was considered as important as communication, breathing, speech, and vision. Of the 300 participants, 85% stated that a normal appearance is important in social activities.

Conclusions The results of this survey involving a cross-section of the Korean population indicated that a normal appearance was considered one of the principal facial functions. A normal appearance was considered more important than the functions of olfaction and expression. Moreover, a normal appearance was determined to be an important facial function for leading a normal life in Korea.
Descended Mouth Corner: An Ignored but Needed Feature of Facial Rejuvenation
Authors: Vidal Pedro , Berner Juan Enrique , Castillo Pablo , Rochefort Günther , Loubies Rodrigo
Published: November 2013

For years, the gold standard in facial rejuvenation has been the face lift. However, exploring new, less complex procedures for achieving the same goal is currently drawing interest. Rejuvenation of the perioral area is a difficult task for plastic surgeons because of the minimal effect that face lift procedures have over this region and the lack of published material on the subject. In this article, the descended mouth corner anguloplasty technique is presented. It is a 20-minutes lift technique that can correct this typical feature of the ageing mouth. The authors have treated 71 patients using the technique with consistently good results, with just one requiring revision. They conclude that this procedure by itself and in combination with other small operations or even a full face lift can rejuvenate the ageing face.
Competing Crystal Growth in Ge–Sb Phase‐Change Films
Authors: Eising Gert , Niebuur Bart‐Jan , Pauza Andrew , Kooi Bart J.
Published: November 2013

Analysis of crystal growth in thin films of phase‐change materials can provide deeper insights in the extraordinary phase transformation kinetics of these materials excellently suited for data storage applications. In the present work crystal growth in GexSb100‐x thin films with x = 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 is studied in detail, demonstrating that the crystallization temperature increases from ∼80 °C for Ge6Sb94 to ∼200 °C for Ge10Sb90 and simultaneously the activation energy for crystal growth also significantly increases from 1.7 eV to 5.5 eV. The most interesting new finding is that in the thin films containing 8, 9, and 10 at% Ge two competing growth modes occur which can have several orders of magnitude difference in growth rate at a single external temperature: an initial mode with isotropic slow growth producing circular crystals with smooth surfaces and growth fronts and a fast growth mode producing crystals with triangular shape having rough surfaces and growth fronts indicative of dendritic‐like growth. The slow‐growth mode becomes increasingly dominant for crystallization at low temperatures when the Ge concentration is increased from 8 to 10 at% Ge. For a certain Ge concentration, the slow growth mode becomes increasingly dominant at lower temperatures and the fast growth mode at higher temperatures. Latent heat produced during crystallization is considered a principal factor explaining the observations. The fast growth mode is associated with (eutectic) decomposition generating more latent heat and instable growth fronts and the slow growth mode is associated with thermodynamically less stable homogeneously alloyed crystals generating less latent heat, but stable growth fronts.
Coated Lithium Powder (CLiP) Electrodes for Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Heine Jennifer , Krüger Steffen , Hartnig Christoph , Wietelmann Ulrich , Winter Martin , Bieker Peter
Published: November 2013

Safety issues caused by the metallic lithium inside a battery represent one of the main reasons for the lack of commercial availability of rechargeable lithium‐metal batteries. The advantage of anodes based on coated lithium powder (CLiP), compared to plain lithium foil, include the suppression of dendrite formation, as the local current density during stripping/plating is reduced due to the higher surface area. Another performance and safety advantage of lithium powder is the precisely controlled mass loading of the lithium anode during electrode preparation, giving the opportunity to avoid Li excess in the cell. As an additional benefit, the coating makes electrode manufacturing safer and eases handling. Here, electrodes based on coated lithium powder electrodes (CLiP) are introduced for application in lithium‐metal batteries. These electrodes are compared to lithium foil electrodes with respect to cycling stability, coulombic efficiency of lithium stripping/plating, overpotential, and morphology changes during cycling.
Synthesis and Evaluation of 2‐(2‐Arylmorpholino)ethyl Esters of Ibuprofen Hydrochlorides as COX‐2 and Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
Authors: Dou Jie , Shi Lei , Hu Aixi , Dong Minyu , Xu Jiangping , Liu Ailin , Jiang Yiping
Published: November 2013

Based on the positive effects of COX‐2 inhibitors on depressive symptoms and the desirable physicochemical and biological properties of the morpholine group, a series of novel 2‐(2‐arylmorpholino)ethyl esters of ibuprofen hydrochlorides were designed, synthesized, and tested for their COX‐2 inhibitory and serotonin reuptake inhibitory activities in vitro. The structure–activity relationships of the 2‐(2‐arylmorpholino)ethyl esters of ibuprofen hydrochlorides as dual COX‐2 and serotonin reuptake inhibitors were determined and discussed in detail. The biological assays indicated that five of the compounds possess good COX‐2 selectivity (selectivity index COX‐1/COX‐2 42.8–158.1). The compound 2‐[2‐(4‐benzyloxyphenyl)morpholino]ethyl 2‐(4‐iso‐butylphenyl)‐propanoate hydrochloride (1k) shows better COX‐2 inhibitory activity (IC50 = 0.78 µM) than ibuprofen (IC50 = 7.6 µM), and it simultaneously possesses favorable serotonin reuptake inhibitory activity.
Dominance and interloci interactions in transcriptional activation cascades: Models explaining compensatory mutations and inheritance patterns
Authors: Bost Bruno , Veitia Reiner A.
Published: November 2013

Mutations in human genes encoding transcription factors are often dominant because one active allele cannot ensure a normal phenotype (haploinsufficiency). In other instances, heterozygous mutations of two genes are required for a phenotype to appear (combined haploinsufficiency). Here, we explore with models (i) the basis of haploinsufficiency and combined haploinsufficiency owing to mutations in transcription activators, and (ii) how the effects of such mutations can be amplified or buffered by subsequent steps in a transcription cascade. We propose that the non‐linear (sigmoidal) response of transcription to the concentration of activators can explain haploinsufficiency. We further show that the sigmoidal character of the output of a cascade increases with the number of steps involved, the settings of which will determine the buffering or enhancement of the effects of a decreased concentration of an upstream activator. This exploration provides insights into the bases of compensatory mutations and on interloci interactions underlying oligogenic inheritance patterns.
Facile and Fast Deposition of Amorphous TiO2 Film under Atmospheric Pressure and at Room Temperature, and its High Photocatalytic Activity under UV‐C Light
Authors: Sun Zhi‐Guang , Li Xiao‐Song , Zhu Xiaobing , Deng Xiao‐Qing , Chang Da‐Lei , Zhu Ai‐Min
Published: November 2013

A facile and fast CVD method for the deposition of TiO2 films, under atmospheric pressure and at room temperature, onto glass and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates is explored. The hydrolysis reaction of titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP) is employed for the deposition of TiO2 film, and the corresponding deposition rate determined. The surface morphology of the as‐deposited TiO2 films is observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). In order to confirm the structure, composition, and optical properties of the films, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy (RS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and UV‐Vis absorption spectroscopy are employed. The as‐deposited TiO2 films are amorphous with a band gap energy of around 3.42 eV and rich in surface OH groups, which exhibit very high photocatalytic activity for complete oxidation of HCHO in simulated air under UV‐C irradiation.
Thermoneutrality results in prominent diet‐induced body weight differences in C57BL/6J mice, not paralleled by diet‐induced metabolic differences
Authors: Hoevenaars Femke P. M. , Bekkenkamp‐Grovenstein Melissa , Janssen Rolf J. R. J. , Heil Sandra G. , Bunschoten Annelies , Hoek‐van den Hil Elise F. , Snaas‐Alders Sophie , Teerds Katja , van Schothorst Evert M. , Keijer Jaap
Published: November 2013

Scope

Mice are usually housed at 20–24°C. At thermoneutrality (28°C) larger diet‐induced differences in obesity are seen. We tested whether this leads to large differences in metabolic health parameters.

Methods and results

We performed a 14‐wk dietary intervention in C57BL/6J mice at 28°C and assessed adiposity and metabolic health parameters for a semipurified low fat (10 energy%) diet and a moderate high fat (30 energy%) diet. A large and significant diet‐induced differential increase in body weight, adipose tissue mass, adipocyte size, serum leptin level, and, to some extent, cholesterol level was observed. No adipose tissue inflammation was seen. No differential effect of the diets on serum glucose, free fatty acids, triacylglycerides, insulin, adiponectin, resistin, PAI‐1, MMP‐9, sVCAM‐1, sICAM‐1, sE‐selectin, IL‐6, ApoE, fibrinogen levels, or HOMA index was observed. Also in muscle no differential effect on mitochondrial density, mitochondrial respiratory control ratio, or mRNA expression of metabolic genes was found. Finally, in liver no differential effect on weight, triacylglycerides level, aconitase/citrate synthase activity ratio was seen.

Conclusion

Low fat diet and moderate high fat diet induce prominent body weight differences at thermoneutrality, which is not paralleled by metabolic differences. Our data rather suggest that thermoneutrality alters metabolic homeostasis.
Autophagy proteins regulate ERK phosphorylation
Authors: Martinez-Lopez Nuria , Athonvarangkul Diana , Mishall Priti , Sahu Srabani , Singh Rajat
Published: November 2013

Autophagy is a conserved pathway that maintains cellular quality control. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) controls various aspects of cell physiology including proliferation. Multiple signalling cascades, including ERK, have been shown to regulate autophagy, however whether autophagy proteins (ATG) regulate cell signalling is unknown. Here we show that growth factor exposure increases the interaction of ERK cascade components with ATG proteins in the cytosol and nucleus. ERK and its upstream kinase MEK localize to the extra-luminal face of autophagosomes. ERK2 interacts with ATG proteins via its substrate-binding domains. Deleting Atg7 or Atg5 or blocking LC3 lipidation or ATG5–ATG12 conjugation decreases ERK phosphorylation. Conversely, increasing LC3-II availability by silencing the cysteine protease ATG4B or acute trehalose exposure increases ERK phosphorylation. Decreased ERK phosphorylation in Atg5−/− cells does not occur from overactive phosphatases. Our findings thus reveal an unconventional function of ATG proteins as cellular scaffolds in the regulation of ERK phosphorylation.
Markers of breast cancer stromal fibroblasts in the primary tumour site associated with lymph node metastasis: a systematic review including our case series
Authors: Folgueira Maria Aparecida Azevedo Koike , Maistro Simone , Katayama Maria Lucia Hirata , Roela Rosimeire Aparecida , Mundim Fiorita Gonzales Lopes , Nanogaki Suely , de Bock Geertruida H. , Brentani M. Mitzi
Published: November 2013

CAFs (cancer-associated fibroblasts), the most abundant cell type in breast cancer stroma, produce a plethora of chemokines, growth factors and ECM (extracellular matrix) proteins, that may contribute to dissemination and metastasis. Axillary nodes are the first metastatic site in breast cancer; however, to the present date, there is no consensus of which specific proteins, synthesized by CAFs, might be related with lymph node involvement. The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review of CAF biomarkers associated with the presence of regional metastasis. PubMed was searched using the words: ‘breast cancer’ and ‘lymph node’ and fibroblast or stroma or microenvironment. After exclusions, eight studies evaluating biomarkers immunoexpression in CAFs and lymph node status were selected. Biomarkers evaluated in these studies may be divided in two groups, according to their ontology: extracellular matrix components [MMP13 (matrix metalloproteinase 13), TIMP2 (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2), THBS1 (thrombospondin 1), LGALS1 (lectin, galactoside-binding, soluble, 1)] and response to wounding [PDPN (podoplanin), PLAU (plasminogen activator, urokinase), PLAUR (plasminogen activator, urokinase receptor), CAV1 (caveolin 1), THBS1, LGALS1]. A positive expression of MMP13 and LGALS1 in CAFs was associated with enhanced OR (odds ratio) for regional metastasis. Contrariwise, CAV1 positive staining of fibroblasts was associated with decreased OR for nodal involvement. Expression of MMP13, PDPN and CAV1 was further tested in a new series of 65 samples of invasive ductal breast carcinomas by immunohistochemistry and no association between biomarkers expression in CAFs and nodal status was found. It was suggested that breast cancer subtypes may differentially affect CAFs behaviour. It would be interesting to evaluate the prognostic significance of these biomarkers in CAFs from different tumour types.
Whole‐body vibration training increases physical fitness measures without alteration of inflammatory markers in older adults
Authors: Cristi Carlos , Collado Pilar S. , Márquez Sara , Garatachea Nuria , Cuevas María J.
Published: November 2013

This study investigated in older adults whether whole‐body vibration (WBV) training results in significant increases of physical fitness measures without alterations in markers of inflammation. Sixteen volunteers completed a WBV programme 3 d.wk−1 during 9 weeks. The programme consisted of lower and upper‐body unloaded static and dynamic exercises. Training improved significantly several tests which evaluate physical fitness, such as 30‐s chair stand, arm curl or chair sit and reach test. There was a significant increase in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) between pre‐ and post‐training conditions. Muscle power values, reached at 20, 40 and 60% MVIC, were also significantly greater after training. However, mRNA or protein levels for C‐reactive protein, interleukin‐6, interleukin‐1β, tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐10 did not significantly differ from basal values. Our data confirm the usefulness of WBV training for counteracting the loss of muscle strength associated with sarcopenia in older adults and show that WBV training could be a safe training method which induces no inflammatory effects.
IL-2 coordinates IL-2–producing and regulatory T cell interplay
Authors: Amado Inês F. , Berges Julien , Luther Rita J. , Mailhé Marie-Pierre , Garcia Sylvie , Bandeira Antonio , Weaver Casey , Liston Adrian , Freitas Antonio A.
Published: November 2013

Many species of bacteria use quorum sensing to sense the amount of secreted metabolites and to adapt their growth according to their population density. We asked whether similar mechanisms would operate in lymphocyte homeostasis. We investigated the regulation of the size of interleukin-2 (IL-2)–producing CD4+ T cell (IL-2p) pool using different IL-2 reporter mice. We found that in the absence of either IL-2 or regulatory CD4+ T (T reg) cells, the number of IL-2p cells increases. Administration of IL-2 decreases the number of cells of the IL-2p cell subset and, pertinently, abrogates their ability to produce IL-2 upon in vivo cognate stimulation, while increasing T reg cell numbers. We propose that control of the IL-2p cell numbers occurs via a quorum sensing–like feedback loop where the produced IL-2 is sensed by both the activated CD4+ T cell pool and by T reg cells, which reciprocally regulate cells of the IL-2p cell subset. In conclusion, IL-2 acts as a self-regulatory circuit integrating the homeostasis of activated and T reg cells as CD4+ T cells restrain their growth by monitoring IL-2 levels, thereby preventing uncontrolled responses and autoimmunity.
Empirical verification of the even Goldbach conjecture and computation of prime gaps up to 4⋅10¹⁸
Authors: Oliveira e Silva Tomás , Herzog Siegfried , Pardi Silvio
Published: November 2013

This paper describes how the even Goldbach conjecture was confirmed to be true for all even numbers not larger than 

4
⋅

10

18

4\cdot 10^{18}

. Using a result of Ramaré and Saouter, it follows that the odd Goldbach conjecture is true up to

8.37
⋅

10

26

8.37\cdot 10^{26}

. The empirical data collected during this extensive verification effort, namely, counts and first occurrences of so-called minimal Goldbach partitions with a given smallest prime and of gaps between consecutive primes with a given even gap, are used to test several conjectured formulas related to prime numbers. In particular, the counts of minimal Goldbach partitions and of prime gaps are in excellent accord with the predictions made using the prime

k
k

-tuple conjecture of Hardy and Littlewood (with an error that appears to be

O
(

t
log
⁡
log
⁡
t

)

O(\sqrt {t\log \log t})

, where

t
t

is the true value of the quantity being estimated). Prime gap moments also show excellent agreement with a generalization of a conjecture made in

1982
1982

by Heath-Brown.
Participatory GIS for strengthening transboundary marine governance in SIDS
Authors: Baldwin Kimberly , Mahon Robin , McConney Patrick
Published: November 2013

In this paper we explore the challenges involved in engaging the full range of stakeholders needed for effective marine resource management in the transboundary Grenadine Islands shared by the small island developing States (SIDS) of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. The study describes the ways stakeholders were engaged in the development of participatory geographic information systems (PGIS), both in terms of the research approach (process) and the final geodatabase (product); it illustrates how the approach provides a practical means to strengthen aspects of marine governance, particularly in a SIDS context. We found that PGIS can provide a foundation for ecosystem‐based transboundary marine governance. The advantages of this approach are two‐fold: it provides the fullest possible range of information as input for the management of marine resources and it engages the stakeholders. This engagement takes several forms: capacity to participate in research; ownership of information produced; increased stakeholder understanding; empowerment through access to information; capacity to interact with other stakeholders for information and problem‐solving; and competence to participate in actual governance processes. Lastly, we discuss considerations for other practitioners contemplating using PGIS, particularly those working in similar resource‐limited SIDS environments.
Changes in mental state associated with prison environments: a systematic review
Authors: Walker J. , Illingworth C. , Canning A. , Garner E. , Woolley J. , Taylor P. , Amos T.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To develop an understanding of the stability of mental health during imprisonment through review of existing research evidence relating physical prison environment to mental state changes in prisoners.

Method

A systematic literature search was conducted looking at changes in mental state and how this related to various aspects of imprisonment and the prison environment.

Results

Fifteen longitudinal studies were found, and from these, three broad themes were delineated: being imprisoned and aspects of the prison regime; stage of imprisonment and duration of sentence; and social density. Reception into prison results in higher levels of psychiatric symptoms that seem to improve over time; otherwise, duration of imprisonment appears to have no significant impact on mental health. Regardless of social density, larger prisons are associated with poorer mental state, as are extremes of social density.

Conclusion

There are large gaps in the literature relating prison environments to changes in mental state; in particular, high‐quality longitudinal studies are needed. Existing research suggests that although entry to prison may be associated with deterioration in mental state, it tends to improve with time. Furthermore, overcrowding, ever more likely as prison populations rise, is likely to place a particular burden on mental health services.
Pathophysiological mechanisms of impaired limb use and repair strategies for motor systems after unilateral injury of the developing brain
Authors: Friel Kathleen M , Chakrabarty Samit , Martin John H
Published: November 2013

The corticospinal tract (CST) is important for limb control. In humans, it begins developing prenatally but CST connections do not have a mature pattern until about 6 months of age and its capacity to evoke muscle contraction does not mature until mid‐adolescence. An initially bilateral projection is subsequently refined, so that most ipsilateral CST connections are eliminated. Unilateral brain damage during refinement leads to bilateral developmental impairments. The damaged side develops sparse and weak contralateral spinal connections and the non‐involved hemisphere maintains its ipsilateral projection to develop an aberrant bilateral spinal projection. In a kitten model of unilateral spastic cerebral palsy, we replicate key features of the CST circuit changes: robust bilateral CST projections from the non‐involved hemisphere, sparse contralateral connections from the affected hemisphere, and motor impairments. We discuss the role of activity‐dependent synaptic competition in development of bilateral CSTs and consider several experimental strategies for restoring a more normal pattern of CST connections from the damaged and non‐involved sides. We highlight recent results stressing the importance of combined repair of CST axons, restoration of a more normal motor cortex motor representation, and key involvement of spinal cholinergic interneurons in restoring skilled motor function.
Noise, variability, and motor performance in developmental coordination disorder
Authors: Smits‐Engelsman Bouwien C M , Wilson Peter H
Published: November 2013

Variability and noise are a natural part of the neuromuscular system, and can occur at multiple levels. However, excessive neural noise in the motor system makes the problem of control much harder. Disruption of basic sensory inputs will exacerbate the problem, impacting one's sense of position in space (or body schema) and the ability of the motor system to predict its own dynamics. So‐called predictive control is fundamental to movement efficiency and accuracy, but has been shown to be poorly developed in children with motor problems like developmental coordination disorder. These children manifest a core deficit in predictive control, which is expressed by high levels of variability across tasks, and at the level of movement kinematics, for example patterns of inter‐limb coordination. As such, they rely heavily on feedback mechanisms to exert control, the outcome being slower and more laboured movements, and reduced responsiveness to changes in the environment. We discuss these issues of high variability and noise in developmental coordination disorder in relation to motor prediction, and with an eye to remediation. Issues of task scheduling and use of augmented feedback are important considerations for therapists when treating these children.
Timing of growth determines fitness and performance of a galling insect on willow
Authors: HÖGLUND SOLVEIG
Published: November 2013

Characteristics that determine a plant's quality as herbivore food exhibit within‐plant heterogeneity. Most models suggest negative effects from secondary chemicals. Less work has focused on plant growth dynamics that might also be important in creating heterogeneity in the distribution of food resources among leaves within the plant.

Gall‐forming insects are sessile during their feeding stage and are therefore of particular interest when assessing the relative importance of growth and non‐growth processes in plants. Galls act as sinks for photoassimilates, and successful redirection of these resources requires that gall formation takes place in plant modules that are in an active growth phase.

The gall midge Dasineura marginemtorquens infests leaves of the fast‐growing Salix viminalis. Several young leaves per shoot are used as oviposition sites during any single egg‐laying occasion. This study investigates the extent to which growth in leaves that are apparently suitable for gall initiation varies along shoots of S. viminalis, and tests whether or not such variation affects the fitness and performance of D. marginemtorquens.

The relative position of the galled leaves along a shoot was found to determine the success of the gall midge in terms of larval survival, larval developmental time, and adult size. Leaf growth dynamics, but not leaf size, was associated with the variation in insect fitness and performance. Thus, when considering habitat quality for a sessile insect like D. marginemtorquens, the length of time that the galling site acts as a photoassimilate sink is more important than the final size of the plant module.