bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Les aspects non économiques des foires et marchés
Authors: Maho Jacques
Published: January 2014

Non Economic Aspects of the Fairs and Markets.

Beside the economic transactions the importance of which is always growing less, fairs and markets assume symbolic and learning functions, as well as they consolidate kinship relations. An evolution in four stages can be observed ranging from the market, limited to the exchange of agricultural products, until the fair where different activities predominate which are no more commercial and which allow the farmer to react against the alienation from his work that modern standards of production and commercialisation involve.
La fin des foires et la persistance des marchés en Périgord
Authors: Groshens Marie-Claude
Published: January 2014

Cette étude est l'esquisse — à l'aide de données partielles — d'une description du changement des foires et marchés du Périgord depuis le début du xixe siècle. Une première partie porte sur la totalité du département ; elle vise à comparer trois tableaux représentant l'état de la question, approximativement, en 1900, 1950 et 1975. Cette confrontation fait ressortir, d'une part le déclin des foires et la persistance des marchés, d'autre part la perte progressive et inégale de leur représentativité dans la production agricole régionale.

La deuxième partie est une monographie des foires et marchés de Montignac-sur- Vézère ; elle donne lieu à une description détaillée des différentes catégories d'intervenants et de leur marquage des espaces de commercialisation. On peut vérifier dans ce cas particulier — amplifié pour des raisons touchant à la position du bourg dans l'ensemble du Périgord — les différences des changements affectant les foires et les marchés.
Les fonctions marchandes et leurs traces dans le paysage.
Authors: Zarka Christian
Published: January 2014

Market Functions and their Effects on the Landscape.

Three markets places differ with respect to their location, morphology and popularity. At Saint-Benoît-du-Sault, in the Indre, merchant activity has given birth to the medieval town; at Levroux (Indre) a weekly market of ancient origin is held on an eccentrically located open space. Lastly, at Les Hérolles, at the point where three regions in the Centre join, an important monthly fair takes place in a village which is almost lifeless for the rest of the time. The analysis of the spatial morphology of these three market centres reveals the political function which accompanies their economic and social functions. The market town of Saint-Benoît, centrally located and built up, is an expression of the political influence of a social group on the local power structure. That at Levroux takes the form of a peasant forum, located away from the town, which again reveals the contrast between two different worlds: rural and urban. In these two cases, as a cross-roads of information, the market centre transmits the ideology of the dominant group which uses it as a ready point.

At Les Hérolles, on the contrary, the marginal location of the village gives the market place a sort of political neutrality which facilitates the strictly economic transactions between several regions.
L'évolution des marchés urbains en Savoie. Continuité ou rupture dans la relation ville-campagne ?
Authors: Poche Bernard
Published: January 2014

L'apparent regain d'activité des marchés urbains de producteurs est-il le signe de nouvelles relations entre ville et campagne ? Une étude de quelques marchés en Savoie semble montrer que la modernisation des structures de la production légumière se réalise sur des circuits à plus grande échelle, et que l'accroissement des vendeurs d'origine agricole est directement lié à un comportement de pré-retraite des polyculteurs âgés, proches de la ville et qui n'auront pas de successeurs. L'étude fait également ressortir la stabilité des groupes sociaux fréquentant le marché et le faible impact des phénomènes de mode, comme ceux de l'idéologie écologique, sur son fonctionnement.
Nouveau contexte, encadrement et évolution de la petite exploitation paysanne en Amérique centrale et dans les pays andins
Authors: Santana Roberto
Published: January 2014

New Context, Organization and Tendencies in Small Farming in Central America and the Andes.

A growing destabilization of peasant economies has been taking place for the last ten years, as a result of the capitalist transformation of Latin American agriculture. This process operates thanks to the liberalization of markets and farming policies. It is expressed through an increasing regional specialization, and changes in the old fields of specialization. Capitalist firms are at the heart of this process.

At present, the greater part of the rural population working on small farms has two chief characteristics : they actually sell, or seek to sell their labour force, and they have to sell their goods at a low price. This sale of surplus working force, on the level of the minifundio, is the central point of the crisis and it particularly underlines the fact that smaller farms help to absorb the shock of the rural unemployment resulting from the modernization of capitalist concerns. The deterioration of the minifundio is a consequence of the demographic growth and the reduction in the economic surplus available to the rural population, because of the open market small producers are less and less able to compete with capitalist firms. The accumulation of capital by fanners remains very rare.

The question of the development of peasant population cannot be seen as a straightforward sector-based problem : it cannot be solved by a mere search for better forms of administrative and technical support.
Variations actuelles sur un vieux thème andin : l'idéal vertical
Authors: Fioravanti-Molinié Antoinette
Published: January 2014

Modern Variations on an Old Andean Theme : the Vertical Ideal.

It is now time to make a synthesis of the various expressions in present day Andean societies of the vertical ideal of self-sufficiency as defined by J.V. Murra for the pre-hispanic Andes. The author makes a typology of these expressions, emphasizing both its limited and provisional character. She illustrates it with examples taken from her personal investigations as well as from works already published or in preparation. She distinguishes two types of access to the ressources of the various ecological levels to be found in the Andes : the control of a territory located at different levels and the access to their products through barter. In the first category two types are distinguished : control of the multiple levels amongst a group of families, as exemplified by the Macha and the Laymi, North of Potosi ; control of the multiple levels within each family, which can take two different forms according to whether the territory of the community is continuous or discontinuous. The first form is illustrated by the Q'eros (Cuzco) whose territory is made up of levels which are distant from one another, and by San Juan (in the valley of Chancay) whose territory is made of levels which are close to each other ; the second form is illustrated by Sibayo (Caylloma) which takes the type of a pre-hispanic «archipelago», and by various examples taken from the Sacred Valley of Cuzco which show the adaptation of the vertical ideal to the colonial type hacienda, to the market economy and finally to the co-operatives set up ty the peruvian land reform. The different forms of barter are analysed inasmuch as the follow up territorial control. Finally these variations in the present manifestations of the vertical ideal suggest the notion of a development cycle in the tactics of control.
La paysannerie indienne des hautes terres du Chiapas (Mexique). De l'intégration au développement séparé
Authors: Favre Henri
Published: January 2014

El campesinado Indio de las altas tierras del Chiapas (México). De la integración al desarrollo separado.

Al terminar la década del 50, las altas tierras de Chiapas, en el sur de Mexico, abrigan todavía una sociedad tradicional cruzada por el clivaje Indios/Ladinos. Pero a partir del decenio que sigue, la región es sometida a importantes cambios que provienen de su inclusión en el mercado nacional y que afectan el conjunto de las relaciones sociales. El sistema de dominacion que mantenia al campesinado en la indianidad se descompone. Les comunidades se estratifican y se transforman en colectividades rurales abiertas. Sus miembros tienden a descampesinizarse. Pera la saturación del mercado del trabajo conduce al gobierno a renunciar a su política de integración y de asimilación para intentar la organización de los Indios en su etnicidad, al margen de la sociedad global.
Toponymie et société. Contribution à l'étude de l'espace communautaire en Basse-Provence
Authors: Martinelli Bruno
Published: January 2014

Toponymy and Society. A Contribution to the Study of Community and Space in Basse-Provence.

The system of named places is not to be considered only as a symbolical transposition of land-use patterns ; it stands also as the «language» of agricultural, pastoral and wooded plots. The object of the research which was carried out in a rural community of Basse-Provence was to define general features of toponymie organization. It is the produce of a logical classification process which arranges land properties in categories and enables village people to mark the difference between places and others. This process reveals the objective criteria in the representation of territory as a reality and as a symbol. Thus the network of named places takes place as an indicator of Mediterranean peasant community organization.
L'historien et la découverte de la fête aujourd'hui
Authors: Vovelle Michel
Published: January 2014

The Historian and the Current Rediscovery of Festivity.

The author examines the reasons underlying the recend rediscovery of festive celebration as both a collective social need and an object of historical study. Can the historian be of any use to today's social worker or community leader in their search for models and references ? While perhaps not, such dialogue is useful, serving to clarify the issue at hand.
Fête et commémoration en «Vendée militaire» 1814-1914
Authors: Petitfrère Claude
Published: January 2014

Festivity and Commemoration in «Military Vendée» (1814-1914).

The commemoration of the war of Vendée (1793) is specific to armorican regions south of the Loire. The author develops a typology of vendean feast days during the Restauration, analyses their pereniality and evolution following this period, and considers the degree of popular participation in these celebrations.
Consommer l'espace sauvage
Authors: Bouverot-Rothacker Anita
Published: January 2014

Les produits de l'espace sauvage occupent une place privilégiée dans la cuisine provençale. Un inventaire, si rapide soit-il, de ces produits collectés montre leur importance, qu'une présentation de leur utilisation dans les repas confirme. Parmi les facteurs qui expliquent la valorisation de ces produits, on peut retenir : l'esthétique culinaire, l'apport économique, la rupture avec les habitudes quotidiennes, la recherche du dépaysement temporel, de la rareté et de l'exploit. C'est en raison de l'un ou de l'autre de ces critères que l'on consomme l'espace sauvage sur la table provençale.
Aspects de la cueillette dans les Alpes suisses
Authors: Kruker Robert , Niederer Arnold
Published: January 2014

Aspects of Gathering in the Swiss Alps

In this article which focuses on the evolution of gathering in the Swiss Alps, the authors show that despite the regression of their economic importance certain practices, such as the harvesting of wild hay, have retained a symbolic significance and a pedadogic function.
L'organisation locale de la chasse. Autodéfense collective et régulation des conflits
Authors: Bages Robert , Nevers Jean-Yves
Published: January 2014

La chasse est devenue l'enjeu de pratiques concurrentielles et conflictuelles de l'espace et de la nature. Protection contre la pression des chasseurs «étrangers» d'orgine urbaine, résistance à l'interventionnisme étatique, répression diffuse de la dissidence de certains détenteurs de droits de chasse (aboutissant parfois à la création de chasses privées), les associations communales de chasse constituent de véritables dispositifs d'autodéfense collective qui, à partir d'une définition hiérarchisée d'appartenance, ravivent les liens de solidarité locale.
La terre et les hommes d'une paroisse marchoise. Essai d'histoire régressive
Authors: Aubrun Michel
Published: January 2014

En partant de l'état de section de 1834, l'auteur s'est efforcé de reconstituer les fortunes foncières d'une commune marchoise, Lourdoueix-Saint-Michel (canton d'Aigurande, Indre). Apparaissent alors deux groupes, d'une part les domaines appartenant à la bourgeoisie rurale, d'autre part les propriétés paysannes, uniformes et médiocres. De ces données nettement établies, l'auteur tire une conclusion facile : il existe une filiation évidente entre les domaines et les terroirs d'origine seigneuriale. Étudiant les communaux, il décèle une parenté réelle entre ceux-ci et les terres domaniales. Quant aux tenures paysannes, elles ne semblent pas avoir changé ni d'aspect ni de superficie depuis bien des siècles. L'une des idées qui a permis ces conclusions est l'hypothèse vérifiée que la taille des parcelles est le plus souvent proportionnelle à celle des exploitations.
La ville antique, «ville de consommation» ? Parasitisme social et économie antique
Authors: Leveau Philippe , Goudineau Christian
Published: January 2014

Dans cet article consacré aux relations entre ville et campagne dans le monde antique, l'auteur soutient la thèse suivant laquelle le concept de «ville de consommation», s'il présente un intérêt historiographique, ne rend pas compte du rôle des aristocraties urbaines dans l'organisation de la production agricole et du commerce. Dans sa réponse, Ch. Goudineau argumente en faveur du concept de «ville de consommation».
Les fonctions sociales de l'enseignement agricole féminin
Authors: Caniou Juliette
Published: January 2014

The chief functions of the agricultural Education for girls

Until the modernization of agriculture, about I960, the chief functions of the agricultural Education for girls (under the control of the landed gentry, then bourgeoisie's) was to stop rural exodus, to augment natality, to create the cult of rural home. Its finality was domestic education, not agricultural professional ability.

When the agriculture became industrialized, this Education fulfills new functions, but it does not permit the professionalization of women in agriculture. To elucidate this gasp between the formation and the needs of abilities, it's necessary to know the status of the peasant women in production's relations of the type domestic and capitalistic.
Ecological relationship between floral thermogenesis and pollination in Nelumbo lutea (Nelumbonaceae)
Authors: Dieringer Gregg , Leticia Cabrera R. , Mottaleb Mohammad
Published: January 2014

• Premise of study: Floral thermogenesis is an unusual floral trait with a well‐documented physiological process, and yet, there is limited understanding of how this trait influences plant reproduction. The current study was undertaken to gain a better understanding of how floral thermogenesis in Nelumbo lutea impacts pollinator attraction and consequent plant reproduction.

• Methods: We conducted field studies on floral thermogenesis and thermoregulation, flower sexual development, floral visitation patterns, breeding system, pollen transfer dynamics, and floral scent production.

• Key results: The most abundant visitors to the thermoregulatory flowers included the Phoridae (Diptera), Chrysomelidae (Coleoptera), and Hymenoptera. Chrysomelid beetles, particularly Diabrotica, were frequent visitors to both first‐day female‐ and second‐day bisexual‐phase flowers, while phorid flies were most common in bisexual‐phase flowers. Pollen transfer experiments indicated that Diabrotica was equally effective in depositing pollen on stigmas, as were the less frequent, but pollen‐loaded halictid bees.

• Conclusions: Flowers received a taxonomically wide assemblage of floral visitors and appear adapted to attract beetles, primarily Chrysomelidae and medium‐sized bees. This study is the first to provide strong support that beetles can comprise the dominant portion of floral visitors and are as effective in pollen transfer as bees. Thermogenesis aids in dispersing the main floral scent component—1,4‐dimethoxybenzene—attracting both chrysomelids and bees, while thermoregulation causes chrysomelid beetles to actively seek out new flowers for evening residence. This search behavior likely results in chrysomelids affecting cross‐pollination.
Friction behavior of a microstructured polymer surface inspired by snake skin
Authors: Baum Martina J , Heepe Lars , Gorb Stanislav N
Published: January 2014

The aim of this study was to understand the influence of microstructures found on ventral scales of the biological model, Lampropeltis getula californiae, the California King Snake, on the friction behavior. For this purpose, we compared snake-inspired anisotropic microstructured surfaces to other microstructured surfaces with isotropic and anisotropic geometry. To exclude that the friction measurements were influenced by physico-chemical variations, all friction measurements were performed on the same epoxy polymer. For frictional measurements a microtribometer was used. Original data were processed by fast Fourier transformation (FFT) with a zero frequency related to the average friction and other peaks resulting from periodic stick-slip behavior. The data showed that the specific ventral surface ornamentation of snakes does not only reduce the frictional coefficient and generate anisotropic frictional properties, but also reduces stick-slip vibrations during sliding, which might be an adaptation to reduce wear. Based on this extensive comparative study of different microstructured polymer samples, it was experimentally demonstrated that the friction-induced stick-slip behavior does not solely depend on the frictional coefficient of the contact pair.
HIV-1 Genital Shedding in HIV-Infected Patients Randomized to Second-Line Lopinavir/Ritonavir Monotherapy versus Tenofovir/Lamivudine/Lopinavir/ Ritonavir
Authors: Bunupuradah Torsak , Bowonwattanuwong Chureeratana , Jirajariyavej Supunnee , Munsakul Warangkana , Klinbuayaem Virat , Sophonphan Jiratchaya , Mahanontharit Apicha , Hirschel Bernard , Ruxrungtham Kiat , Ananworanich Jintanat ,   the HIV STAR Study team
Published: January 2014

Background

HIV-1 shedding in genital secretions is associated with HIV transmission risk. Limited data exist on the effect of second-line lopinavir/ritonavir mono-therapy (mLPV/r) on genital secretion of HIV RNA.

Methods

We measured HIV-1 in genital secretions of HIV-infected adults at time of failure from non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based regimens and at 48 weeks after being randomized to second-line mLPV/r versus tenofovir/lamivudine/LPV/r (TDF/3TC/LPV/r). Plasma and genital secretion (semen, vaginal swab) HIV RNA was quantified by the CobasAm-pliprep/TaqMan assay.

Results

Forty enrolled (15 on mLPV/r and 25 on TDF/3TC/LPV/r). Median age was 37.8 years and 35% were male. Median baseline CD4+ T-cell count was 222 cells/mm3, plasma HIV RNA was 4.1 log10 copies/ml and genital secretion HIV RNA was 2.3 log10 copies/ml. At week 48, the proportion of patients with plasma HIV RNA<50 copies/ml was 13/15 (87%) in mLPV/r and 21/25 (84%) in TDF/3TC/LPV/r arms. Median genital HIV RNA was significantly decreased from baseline in both arms ( P=0.009 in mLPV/r and P=0.001 in TDF/3TC/LPV/r). In subjects with suppressed plasma HIV RNA, 12/34 (35%; 6/13 [46%] in the mLPV/r and 6/21 [29%] in the TDF/3TC/LPV/r arms) had detectable HIV RNA (range 74–957 copies/ml) in the genital secretions ( P=0.41). By multivariate analysis, the only predictor of having genital HIV RNA>50 copies/ml at week 48 was baseline genital secretion HIV RNA>50 copies/ml ( P=0.049).

Conclusions

LPV/r either given alone or in combination with TDF/3TC as second-line treatment achieved high genital secretion HIV RNA suppression rate. Genital secretion HIV RNA remained detectable at low levels in one-third of patients with suppressed plasma viraemia.
Prebiotics and probiotics: the prevention and reduction in severity of atopic dermatitis in children
Authors: Foolad N. , Armstrong A.W.
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this review was to identify whether supplementation with prebiotics and/or probiotics help prevent the development or reduce the severity of atopic dermatitis in children less than three years of age. Since 1997, immunostimulatory supplements, such as prebiotics and probiotics, have been investigated. Various supplementations include probiotics (single strain or mix), probiotics with formula, probiotics mix with prebiotics, and prebiotics. In this narrative review, we examined 13 key articles on prebiotics and/or probiotics, and their effects on infant atopic dermatitis. Among the selected studies, a total of 3,023 participants received supplements or placebo. Eight out of the 13 (61.5%) studies reported a significant effect on the prevention of atopic dermatitis after supplementation with probiotics and/or prebiotics. Five out of the 13 (38.5%) studies indicated significant reduction in the severity of atopic dermatitis after supplementation. Based on the available studies, supplementation with certain probiotics (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) appears to be an effective approach for the prevention and reduction in severity of atopic dermatitis. A mix of specific probiotic strains prevented atopic dermatitis among infants. Based on studies with prebiotics, there was a long-term reduction in the incidence of atopic dermatitis. Supplementation with prebiotics and probiotics appears useful for the reduction in the severity of atopic dermatitis. Additional interventional studies exploring prebiotics and probiotics are imperative before recommendations can be made.
Tate Cycles on Abelian Varieties with Complex Multiplication
Authors: Kumar Murty V. , Patankar Vijay M.
Published: January 2014

We consider Tate cycles on an Abelian variety A defined over a sufficiently large number field K and having complexmultiplication. We show that there is an effective bound C = C(A, K) so that to check whether a given cohomology class is a Tate class on A, it suffices to check the action of Frobenius elements at primes v of norm ≤ C. We also show that for a set of primes v of K of density 1, the space of Tate cycles on the special fibre Av of the Néron model of A is isomorphic to the space of Tate cycles on A itself.
Effect of a Park-Based After-School Program on Participant Obesity-Related Health Outcomes
Authors: Messiah Sarah E. , Diego Allison , Kardys Jack , Kirwin Kevin , Hanson Eric , Nottage Renae , Ramirez Shawn , Arheart Kristopher L.
Published: January 2014

Purpose.

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of a structured after-school program housed in a large county parks system on participant health and wellness outcomes.

Design.

Longitudinal cohort study over one school year (fall 2011-spring 2012).

Setting.

A total of 23 county parks in Florida.

Subjects.

Children ages 5 to 16 (N= 349, 55% non-Hispanic black, 40% Hispanic, mean age 8.9 years).

Intervention.

An after-school program called Fit-2-Play that integrates daily standardized physical activity and health and wellness education components.

Measures.

Preintervention (August/September 2011) and postintervention (May/June 2012) anthropometric, systolic/diastolic blood pressure, fitness, and health and wellness knowledge measurements were collected.

Analysis.

Comparison of pre-post outcome measure means were assessed via general linear mixed models for normal-weight (body mass index [BMI] < 85th percentile for age and sex) and overweight/obese (BMI ≥85th percentile for age and sex) participants.

Results.

The overweight/obese group significantly decreased their mean (1) BMI z score (2.0 to 1.8, p < .01) and (2) subscapular skinfold measurements (19.4 to 17.5 mm, p < .01) and increased (1) mean laps on the Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run test (10.8 to 12.5, p = .04) and (2) percentage with normal systolic blood pressure (58.1% to 71.0%, p = .03) from pretest to posttest. On average, participants significantly improved their health and wellness knowledge over the school year (p < .01). Normal-weight participants maintained healthy BMI ranges and significantly increased fitness levels.

Conclusion.

Findings suggest that the Fit-2-Play after-school programs can be a significant resource for combating childhood obesity and instilling positive physical health in children, particularly among ethnic and socioeconomically diverse communities.
A Breast Health Educational Program for Chinese-American Women: 3- to 12-Month Postintervention Effect
Authors: Lee-Lin Frances , Nguyen Thuan , Pedhiwala Nisreen , Dieckmann Nathan , Menon Usha
Published: January 2014

Purpose.

To test the efficacy of a culturally targeted breast cancer screening educational program in increasing mammogram completion in Chinese-American immigrant women.

Design.

Randomized controlled study

Setting.

Chinese communities, Portland, Oregon.

Subjects.

From April 2010 to September 2011, 300 women were randomized to receive a theory-based, culturally targeted breast cancer screening educational intervention (n = 147) or a mammography screening brochure published by the National Cancer Institute (n = 153).

Intervention.

The two-part intervention consisted of group teaching with targeted, theory-based messages followed by individual counseling sessions.

Measures.

Mammography completion, perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, perceived cultural barriers, and demographic variables.

Analysis.

A 2 × 3 mixed logistic model was applied to determine odds ratio of mammogram completion.

Results.

Behavior changed in both groups, with a total of 170 participants (56.7%) reporting a mammogram at 12 months. The logistic model indicated increased odds of mammogram completion in the intervention compared to the control group at 3, 6, and 12 months. When controlling for marital status, age, and age moved to the United States, the intervention group was nine times more likely to complete mammograms than the control group.

Conclusion.

The culturally targeted educational program significantly increased mammogram use among Chinese immigrant women. Further testing of effectiveness in larger community settings is needed. The intervention may also serve as a foundation from which to develop education to increase cancer screening among other minority subgroups.
Does Individualized Health Information regarding Alcohol Consumption Affect Consumption among Risky Drinkers?
Authors: Berning Joshua , Murphy Sean M.
Published: January 2014

Purpose.

Studies testing the effect of physician advice on alcohol consumption in a noncontrolled environment have not specifically focused on risky drinkers. Therefore, it is possible that the estimated effect of professional health advice primarily reflected moderate drinkers' responses. We assessed whether professional health advice reduced alcohol consumption among risky and binge drinkers in a real-world setting.

Design.

Retrospective cohort analysis.

Setting.

We used 2009 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Annual Survey Data.

Subjects.

Five thousand seven hundred thirty-five adult male and nonpregnant female risky drinkers, with hypertension or borderline hypertension, who reported on whether they were advised to reduce alcohol consumption.

Measures.

Dependent variable: respondent was currently reducing alcohol use to control hypertension (1 = yes; 0 = no). Primary regressor: respondent claimed to have received advice from a health professional on reducing alcohol consumption to control hypertension (1 = yes; 0 = no).

Analysis.

The model was estimated using generalized maximum entropy.

Results.

Professional health advice increased the probability that both risky (marginal effect [ME] = .09), and binge drinkers (ME = .07) reduced their alcohol consumption.

Conclusion.

Our findings indicate that risky drinkers can effectively be targeted with consumption advice. This has important policy implications given that society bears the largest cost for this group, whereas moderate drinkers have been found to be relatively productive and healthy.
Perceptions about Energy Drinks are Associated with Energy Drink Intake among U.S. Youth
Authors: Kumar Gayathri , Park Sohyun , Onufrak Stephen
Published: January 2014

Purpose.

Energy drinks are growing in popularity among youth because of their stimulant properties. However, they can increase blood pressure and are associated with serious consequences such as cardiac arrest. This study examined the associations between energy drink perceptions and energy drink consumption among youth.

Design.

The design was a cross-sectional study using the YouthStyles Survey 2011.

Setting.

The online survey was administered at home.

Subjects.

Subjects were youths aged 12 to 17 years in the summer of 2011 (n = 779).

Measures.

Energy drink consumption, perceptions about energy drinks, and sociodemographic and behavioral variables were measured.

Analysis.

Chi-square and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used.

Results.

Overall, 9% of youth drank energy drinks, 19.5% agreed that energy drinks are safe drinks for teens, and 12.5% agreed that energy drinks are a type of sports drink. The proportion of youth consuming energy drinks once per week or more was highest among youth aged 16 to 17 years and among those who are physically active three to six times a week. The odds for drinking energy drinks once per week or more was higher among youth who agreed that energy drinks are safe drinks for teens (odds ratios [OR] = 7.7, 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 3.6, 16.4) and among those who agreed that energy drinks are a type of sports drink (OR = 5.0, 95% CI = 2.4, 10.7).

Conclusions.

These findings suggest that many youth may be unaware or misinformed about the potential health effects and nutritional content of energy drinks. Efforts to improve education among youth about the potential adverse effects of consuming energy drinks are needed.
Genomic research perspectives in Kazakhstan
Authors: Akilzhanova Ainur
Published: January 2014

Introduction: Technological advancements rapidly propel the field of genome research. Advances in genetics and genomics such as the sequence of the human genome, the human haplotype map, open access databases, cheaper genotyping and chemical genomics, have transformed basic and translational biomedical research. Several projects in the field of genomic and personalized medicine have been conducted at the Center for Life Sciences in Nazarbayev University. The prioritized areas of research include: genomics of multifactorial diseases, cancer genomics, bioinformatics, genetics of infectious diseases and population genomics. At present, DNA-based risk assessment for common complex diseases, application of molecular signatures for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, genome-guided therapy, and dose selection of therapeutic drugs are the important issues in personalized medicine. Results: To further develop genomic and biomedical projects at Center for Life Sciences, the development of bioinformatics research and infrastructure and the establishment of new collaborations in the field are essential.Widespread use of genetic tools will allow the identification of diseases before the onset of clinical symptoms, the individualization of drug treatment, and could induce individual behavioral changes on the basis of calculated disease risk. However, many challenges remain for the successful translation of genomic knowledge and technologies into health advances, such as medicines and diagnostics.It is important to integrate research and education in the fields of genomics, personalized medicine, and bioinformatics, which will be possible with opening of the new Medical Faculty at Nazarbayev University. People in practice and training need to be educated about the key concepts of genomics and engaged so they can effectively apply their knowledge in a matter that will bring the era of genomic medicine to patient care. This requires the development of well-equipped laboratories, bioinformatics, as well as qualified trained physicians and laboratory staff.
Examination of Lactic Acid Bacteria to Secretion of Bacteriocins
Authors: Urazova Maira , Moldagulova Asel , Anuarbekova Sandugash , Tuyakova Altynay , Abitaeva Gulyaim , Nagyzbekkyzy Elvira , Bekenova Eleonora , Shaikhin Serik , Almagambetov Kairtai
Published: January 2014

Introduction: Bacteriocins produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have the potential to cover a very broad field of applications, including the food industry and the medical sector. In the food industry, bacteriocinogenic LAB strains can be used as starter cultures, co-cultures, and bioprotective cultures, which would be used to improve food quality and safety. In the medical sector, bacteriocins of probiotic LAB might play a role in interactions, which take place in human gastrointestinal tract, and contribute to gut health. The aim of this study was the examine the effect of LAB antimicrobial activity. Methods: LAB were isolated from different commercial and home made products, such as kazy and sour cream. To screen for bacteriocin producing LAB, we used an agar diffusion bioassay, described in a previous study by Dr. Yang, with three modifications in cell-free supernatant (CFS). First we had a clear supernatant, second we adjusted the CFS to pH 6.0 to eliminate acids antimicrobial effects, and third the CFS pH 6.0 was treated with catalase to exclude the action of H2O2 and confirm action of bacteriocin-like substances. Pathogenic S.marcescens, E. coli, S.aureus cultures were used as indicators. Results: Screening of 95 strains of LAB through deferred antagonism to six indicator cultures showed that all of the selected strains had a high value of antibacterial activity. However, CFS of only 50 strains retained their antimicrobial activity, and 10 of them lost this activity in the second modification of CFS with pH 6.0 to test culture S.marcescens, which confirmed the acidic nature of antimicrobial activity of CFS. Lb.rhamnosus (P-1), Lb.fermentum (N-6), and Lc.lactis (7M) lost antibacterial activity in the presence of the catalase. All modifications of CFS of three strains: Lb.pentosus (16al), Lb.pentosus (P-2), and Pediococcusacidilactici (8) retained inhibitory activity to E.coli and S. aureus. Supernatants of only Lactococcusgarvieae (10a) and Pediococcusacidilactici (25) extracted from homemade meat food kazy (Karaganda) and sour cream (Astana), respectively retained antibacterial activity to all three indicator cultures. Conclusion: The antibacterial activity (pH 6.0, added catalase) of Lactococcusgarvieae (10a) and Pediococcusacidilactici (25) to S. marcescens, E. coli, and S.aureus indicates these strains as promising strains for further use in the preparation of bacteriocins.
Randomized Clinical Trial: Efficacy of a New Synbiotic in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Kushugulova Almagul , Benberin Valerii , Karabayeva Raushan , Saduakhasova Saule , Kozhakhmetov Samat , Shakhabayeva Gulnara , Tynybayeva Indira , Nurgozhin Talgat , Zhumadilov Zhaxybay
Published: January 2014

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome is a lifestyle disease and is a frequent problem among the adult population. Human gut microbiota plays a key role in the development of metabolic syndrome. Recently, the gut microbiota has emerged as an important contributor to the development of obesity and metabolic disorders through its interactions with environmental (e.g. diet) and genetic factors. The aim of this study was to research the effects of synbiotic on the gut microbiota and host metabolism. Methods: We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Our sample included 180 adults (ages 30-89) with symptoms of metabolic syndrome, who were allocated to either placebo or synbiotic group. The main inclusion criteria were: blood pressure of around 130/90 mmHg; raised fasting plasma glucose (FPG) >100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L), previous diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia triglycerides (TG) of 1.70 mmol/L, a high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) of 0.90 mmol/L in males and 1.0 mmol/L in females, and central obesity with a waist/hip ratio > 0.90 in males or > 0.85 in females or a body mass index > 30 kg/m2. Results: We enrolled 90 adults in the placebo group and 90 in the synbiotic group. The two groups had similar demographic and clinical characteristics. Consent was signed by all patients. All patients underwent clinical and laboratory evaluation, including complete blood tests, glucose test, glycosylated  hemoglobin, total cholesterol and triglycerides, cholesterol, LDL, HDL plasma, immunogram, and coprogram. All patients were interviewed with a questionnaire that included 200 questions related to diet, lifestyle, and health. Synbiotic were used by patients in a dose of 200 grams twice a day. The duration of applying of the synbiotic was 90 days. To study the composition of the intestinal microbiota, stool samples were collected before and after applying the synbiotic. The microbial composition will be determined by analyzing the locus of 16S rDNA.Conclusion: This ongoing study is currently undergoing microbial composition analysis in order to establish the efficacy of the new synbiotic in adults with metabolic syndrome.
Effects of Antioxidants and Vitamins on the Proliferation of Human Diploid Cells
Authors: Dаnlybaeva Gaziza , Isabekova Assel , Akhmadeyeva Zhansaya
Published: January 2014

Introduction: Microelements, essential nutrients that are needed in small amounts including minerals such as calcium, zinc, iron and other vitamins (A, B, C, and etc.), are macronutrients necessary for a healthy life.The role of micronutrients in vivo is well known, and there are several publications that have examined the effects of micronutrients on genomic stability. Furthermore, a number of vitamins and microelements are substrates and/or cofactors in metabolic pathways, which regulate DNA synthesis and/or repair and gene expression.A deficiency in such nutrients may result in disruption of genomic integrity and alterations in DNA methylation patterns, linking cellular nutrition with change in gene expression. For example, lack of vitamin C is known to cause increased DNA oxidation and chromosomal damage. Vitamin A, as well as other micronutrients, have a protective effect, whereas higher concentrations are associated with increased DNA damage.Ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10) and dihydroquercetin are used in therapy as antioxidant compounds and electron carriers, which reduce lipid peroxidation of cell membranes. However, previous studies indicate that various ubiquinone analogs may cause a divergent effect on oxidative stress and oxidative phosphorylation.The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of vitamins A and C, coenzyme Q10, and dihydroquercetin on the proliferative potential of cultured human embryonic diploid fibroblasts (M-22).Methods: In the first series of experiments, nontoxic concentrations of vitamins for the cells were identified using MTT assay.Results: Vitamins A and C, dihydroquercetin of 1µM, and coenzyme Q10 of 5µM were nontoxic for human skin fibroblasts.In the second series of experiments, cell cultivation was carried out with nontoxic concentrations. A vitamin C concentration of 1µM for 7 consecutive passages increased the proliferation index (PI) compared to the control. Thus, the average PI in the experiments was 2.3, whereas in the control, it was 1.7. Similar results were obtained when dihydroquercetin was added to the growth medium. However, further cultivation of cells in the presence of vitamin C decreased PI to 1.4, while the control value remained the same. Daily examination revealed no morphological changes in the cell culture, but the cell growth had slowed significantly. The use of vitamin A in a nontoxic concentration of 1 µM reduced PI to 0.7 in the first passage, so further culturing of human cells with vitamin A was stopped.Conclusion: Studies examining the effect of different combinations of microelements on the proliferation of human diploid cells and the expression of specific proteins in them are still being conducted.
Frequency of NAT2 and GSTP1 polymorphisms in the Kazakh population
Authors: Iskakova Aisha , Romanova Aliya , Zholdybayeva Elena , Ramanculov Erlan , Momynaliev Kuvat
Published: January 2014

Introduction: Phase II xenobiotic biotransformation enzymes perform detoxification of hydrophilic and often toxic Phase I products by glutathionetransferase (GST), UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UDF), N-acetyltransferase (NAT) families and other enzymes. GST protein family metabolizes a large number of electrophilic xenobiotics, including drugs, by conjugating them with glutathione. Arylamine-N-acetyltransferase (NAT) catalyzes the acetylation of the aromatic and heterocyclic amines.Materials and methods: The current study has assessed the frequencies of NAT2 and GSTP1 genes polymorphisms in 326 healthy individuals from different regions of Kazakhstan by using Real-Time PCR and direct sequencing methods.Results: Allele frequencies were derived for NAT2*5 (0.54) and GSTP1 (0.27). GSTP1 alleles were in Hardy – Weinberg equilibrium (p > 0.05), while NAT2*5 (p = 0.00) were not.  The population differences between North, Northeast and South Kazakhstan regions were determined. Statistically significant differences in the frequency of genotypes were not found.Conclusion: Allelic polymorphisms of NAT2*5 and GSTP1 genes vary widely in different populations. Kazakh population was significantly different from Asian, Caucasoid, African-American and Hispanic ones by NAT2*5 and GSTP1 genes. Allelic variants of the NAT2*5 were detected with a low frequency in Asian populations. Allelic frequency in other world populations varies from 30 to 50%. The differences between Kazakh (0.54) and the world population were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The frequency of GSTP1 (rs1695) in the African American population is 42%. The frequency of GSTP1 in Asian populations varies from 11% to 23%, in Caucasoid populations it is about 30%. The differences between Kazakh population (0.27) and other populations selected from the literature were statistically significant (p < 0.05).The study of mutations in GSTP1 and NAT2 genes is necessary to assess the risk of the development of various diseases, such as cancer. Information on allelic polymorphisms also might be useful for personalized drug prescription for such drugs as cyclophosphamide, cisplatin, methotrexate, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and rifampin.
Pharmacogenetic research in Kazakhstan
Authors: Zholdybayeva Elena , Iskakova Aisha , Romanova Aliya , Ramanculov Erlan , Momynaliev Kuvat
Published: January 2014

Introduction: Pharmacogenomics is an emerging field of medicine that combines genetics and pharmacology. Pharmacogenomic research is relatively new in Kazahkstan, but, in recent years, significant progress has been made in this field. The National Scientific Laboratory for Biotechnology has launched several government-funded research projects focused on finding genetic markers that determine susceptibility to various drugs. Another goal of pharmacogenetic research in the laboratory is to find the pharmacogenomic markers that target cardiovascular diseases, accounting for allelic frequencies in selected genes in the Kazakh population. In addition, pharmacogenomic testing kits allow patients to choose the drug dosage. For example, the drug Warfarin has been developed within the framework of the "Technology Commercialization Project,” funded jointly by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the World Bank.Material and methods: The pharmacogenomic studies were conducted using the real-time PCR and direct DNA sequencing. DNA was isolated from venous blood or buccal cells, collected from patients.Results: To date, we have identified the most promising areas of research in the field of pharmacogenomics in Kazakhstan. The allelic frequencies of a number of polymorphisms in the Kazakh population have been calculated (CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP3A4, VKORC1, CYP4F2, GGCX, CYP2D6, CYP1A2, NAT2, GSTP1, SLC47A1). A unique repository of DNA samples was established and is being replenished during the implementation of aforementioned projects. Development of the testing kit for individual selection of Warfarin dosage is nearing completion. A patent, named "Method of Selection Based Dose Warfarin Genotyping for the Kazakh Population" has been recently obtained. An application for another patent, titled "Express Method of Correction of Warfarin Dosing, Based on Real-time PCR" has received positive evaluation. The results of domestic pharmacogenomic studies will allow a more rational selection of drugs and their dosage regimens specific to the Kazakh population.
Reversibility of cellular aging by reprogramming through an embryonic-like state : a new paradigm for human cell rejuvenation
Authors: Lemaitre Jean-Marc
Published: January 2014

Direct reprogramming of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provides a unique opportunity to derive patient-specific stem cells with potential application in autologous tissue replacement therapies and without the ethical concerns of Embryonic Stem Cells (hESC). However, this strategy still suffers from several hurdles that need to be overcome before clinical applications. Among them, cellular senescence, which contributes to aging and restricted longevity, has been described as a barrier to the derivation of iPSCs. This suggests that aging might be an important limitation for therapeutic purposes for elderly individuals. Senescence is characterized by an irreversible cell cycle arrest in response to various forms of stress, including activation of oncogenes, shortened telomeres, DNA damage, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. To overcome this barrier, we developed an optimized 6-factor-based reprogramming protocol that is able to cause efficient reversing of cellular senescence and reprogramming into iPSCs. We demonstrated that iPSCs derived from senescent and centenarian fibroblasts have reset telomere size, gene expression profiles, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial metabolism, and are indistinguishable from hESC. Finally, we demonstrate that re-differentiation led to rejuvenated cells with a reset cellular physiology, defining a new paradigm for human cell rejuvenation. We discuss the molecular mechanisms involved in cell reprogramming of senescent cells.