bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Political Action, Error and Failure: The Epistemological Limits of Complexity
Authors: Little Adrian
Published: November 2011

The trend in government and public policy towards evidence-based policy making has recently been the subject of criticism from authors such as Ian Sanderson who argue that the insights of complexity theory undermine the claims of evidence that these forms of policy design advocate. While taking on board the primary claim of this critique, this article examines the contribution of complexity theory in more detail to suggest that the epistemological obstacles that complexity science identifies also challenge the kind of pragmatic, deliberative model that Sanderson prefers. Instead, it examines the work of Michael Freeden on failure and Michel Foucault on error to demonstrate the ways in which approaches that are less wedded to epistemological certainty can enable policy makers to think more creatively about the complex terrain they must navigate and develop more innovative and less risk-averse forms of political action.
The Substantive Representation of Women: What to Do with Conservative Claims?
Authors: Celis Karen , Childs Sarah
Published: November 2011

Recent developments in the gender and politics literature suggest that studying the substantive representation of women is much more complicated than counting the number of women present in a particular political institution and judging the actions of women representatives against a ‘feminist’ shopping list of demands. In brief, the substantive representation of women is no longer considered to be restricted to what happens in our parliaments or only by what women representatives do therein. Furthermore, what constitutes women's issues and interests – that which is to be represented – can also no longer be considered straightforwardly ‘out there’ to simply be acted upon by representatives; they are constructed as part of the representative process. Acknowledgement of the diversity and likely contested nature of claims to act ‘for women’ coincides with an emerging appreciation that the claims for women made by conservative representatives need to be brought more explicitly into our analytic frameworks and empirical studies. Together, these points not only undermine any assumption that the substantive representation of women equals the feminist substantive representation of women; they also raise the possibility of non- and anti-feminist representative claims and actions ‘for’ women. Against this backdrop, we review recent developments within the sub-field of the substantive representation of women literature and offer some reflections and suggestions about how to take conservatism seriously when studying the substantive representation of women both conceptually and empirically.
The Paris financial market in the nineteenth century: complementarities and competition in microstructures1
Authors: Hautcoeur Pierre‐Cyrille , Riva Angelo
Published: November 2011

This article sets out to explain why the Paris Bourse was highly successful in the nineteenth century in spite of the supposedly inefficient monopoly of the official market, the Parquet. The literature argues that the official monopoly was sidelined by a free, innovative market known as the Coulisse, but it fails to explain how the Coulisse emerged despite the monopoly and how the two markets persisted alongside each other during the entire century. We provide a detailed history of how these two markets emerged and interacted. The Parquet increasingly developed as a high‐end market, providing security, transparency, and effective settlement‐delivery to unsophisticated investors trading on the spot market. The Coulisse provided liquidity, immediacy, and opacity to professional investors trading mostly forward. In line with recent theoretical developments, we argue that the juxtaposition of heterogeneous organizations had important virtues for market participants, since it allowed the exchanges to specialize in different investors and services and made the exchanges complementary to each other. We demonstrate our claim by looking at both the formal rules and the actual functioning of the Parquet, drawing on its archives which we have recently classified.
EU Equality Law: Three Recent Developments
Authors: Howard Erica
Published: November 2011

This article analyses three recent developments within the EU that have an impact on EU equality legislation: the coming into force of the Treaty of Lisbon, the Proposal to extend the material scope of the provisions against discrimination on the ground of religion and belief, disability, age and sexual orientation beyond the area of employment, and the case law of the European Court of Justice regarding the EU Equality Directives of 2000. It will assess whether these three developments have led to improved protection against discrimination for people in the EU.
Relationship between humeral geometry and shoulder muscle power among suspensory, knuckle‐walking, and digitigrade/palmigrade quadrupedal primates
Authors: Kikuchi Yasuhiro , Takemoto Hironori , Kuraoka Akio
Published: November 2011

Shoulder morphology is functionally related to different patterns of locomotion in primates. To investigate this we performed a quantitative analysis of the relationship between cortical bone thickness (Cbt) of the muscle/tendon attachment site on the humerus and physiological cross‐sectional area (PCSA) of the shoulder muscle in primates with different locomotory habits. The deltoid, subscapularis, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus were investigated. A chimpanzee, a gibbon, a baboon, two species of macaque, a lutong, a capuchin, and a squirrel monkey were included in the study. The total length of the humerus was measured and the values were converted into three‐dimensional reconstructed data on a computer by computed tomography. The Cbt values were obtained from the volumes divided by the areas of the muscle/tendon attachment sites of the humerus by computer analysis. Muscle mass, muscle fascicle length, and muscle pennation angle were measured and PCSA was calculated using these parameters. A relatively high Cbt and small PCSA were characteristic of the gibbon. The gibbon’s high Cbt suggests that passive tension in the muscle/tendon attachment site of suspensory primates (brachiators) may be greater than that of quadrupedal primates, whereas the relatively small PCSA indicates an association with a large amount of internal muscle fascia to endure the passive stress of brachiation. Although chimpanzees undertake some suspensory locomotion, the results for this species resemble those of the digitigrade/palmigrade quadrupedal primates rather than those of the suspensory primate. However, the deltoid and subscapularis in chimpanzee differ from those of the other primates and appear to be affected by the peculiar locomotion of knuckle‐walking, i.e. the moment arm of forelimb in chimpanzees is relatively longer than that of digitigrade/palmigrade quadrupedal primates. Hence, a large PCSA in the deltoid and subscapularis may contribute to sustaining the body weight during locomotion. On the other hand, a thin cortical bone relative to a large PCSA was a feature of the cercopithecids, indicating that digitigrade/palmigrade quadrupedal locomotion produces less tension at the muscle/tendon attachment sites compared with that produced by brachiators.
Orienting to external versus internal regions of space: Consequences of attending in advance versus after the fact
Authors: Broadway James M. , Hilimire Matthew R. , Corballis Paul M.
Published: November 2011

We examined effects of knowing where to attend to‐be‐remembered information in advance versus after the fact. Participants performed a visuospatial short‐term memory task with orienting cues that appeared before or after a memory display and reported whether a probe item had appeared on the cued side. Event‐related potentials (ERPs) were recorded for cues, memory displays, and probes. Performance was better in precued versus postcued conditions.ERPs to orienting cues and memory displays were lateralized in relation to the direction of attention in precued but not postcued conditions.ERPs to recognition probes were lateralized, but this was similar between pre‐ and postcued conditions. Results suggest that we can orient visuospatial attention outwardly to external events and inwardly to remembered events alike, but knowing where to attend information in advance gives a bigger boost to brain and behavior.
DIFFERENCES IN THE PRODUCTION AND EXCRETION KINETICS OF OKADAIC ACID, DINOPHYSISTOXIN‐1, AND PECTENOTOXIN‐2 BETWEEN CULTURES OF DINOPHYSIS ACUMINATA AND DINOPHYSIS FORTII ISOLATED FROM WESTERN JAPAN1
Authors: Nagai Satoshi , Suzuki Toshiyuki , Nishikawa Tetsuya , Kamiyama Takashi
Published: November 2011

We established clonal cultures of Dinophysis acuminata Clap. et Lachm. and D. fortii Pavill. isolated from western Japan and examined toxin production in them, focusing on intracellular production and extracellular excretion. At the end of incubations, the total amounts of pectenotoxin‐2 (PTX‐2), dinophysistoxin‐1 (DTX‐1), and okadaic acid (OA) in the D. acuminata cultures reached up to 672.7 ± 14.7 (mean ± SD), 88.1 ± 2.8, and 539.3 ± 39.7 ng · mL−1, respectively, and the excreted extracellular amounts were equivalent to 5.1, 79.5, and 79.5% of the total amounts, respectively. Similarly, at the end of incubations, the total amounts of PTX‐2, DTX‐1, and OA in the D. fortii cultures reached up to 526.6 ± 52.6 (mean ±SD), 4.4 ± 0.4, and 135.9 ± 3.9 ng · mL−1, respectively, and the excreted extracellular amounts were equivalent to 1.8, 80.1, and 86.6% of the total amounts, respectively. Further, we tested the availability of cell debris and dissolved organic substances that originated from the ciliate prey Myrionecta rubra for growth and toxin production in D. acuminata. Although no significant growth was observed in D. acuminata in the medium containing the cell debris and organic substances originated from M. rubra, the toxicity was significantly greater than that in the control (P < 0.05–0.001); this finding suggested the availability of organic substances for toxin production. However, toxin productivity was remarkably lower than that of Dinophysis species feeding on living M. rubra.
THE EFFECTS OF TEMPERATURE ON THE PHOTOSYNTHETIC PARAMETERS AND RECOVERY OF TWO TEMPERATE BENTHIC MICROALGAE, AMPHORA CF. COFFEAEFORMIS AND COCCONEIS CF. SUBLITTORALIS (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Salleh Sazlina , McMinn Andrew
Published: November 2011

Temperature and irradiance are the most important factors affecting marine benthic microalgal photosynthetic rates in temperate intertidal areas. Two temperate benthic diatoms species, Amphora cf. coffeaeformis (C. Agardh) Kütz. and Cocconeis cf. sublittoralis Hendey, were investigated to determine how their photosynthesis responded to temperatures ranging from 5°C to 50°C after short‐term exposure (1 h) to a range of irradiance levels (0, 500, and 1,100 μmol photons · m−2 · s−1). Significant differences were observed between the temperature responses of maximum relative electron transport rate (rETRmax), photoacclimation index (Ek), photosynthetic efficiency (α), and effective quantum yield (ΔF/Fm’) in both species. A. coffeaeformis had a greater tolerance to higher temperatures than C. sublittoralis, with nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ) activated at temperatures of 45°C and 50°C. C. sublittoralis, however, demonstrated a more rapid rate of recovery at ambient temperatures. Temperatures between 10°C and 20°C were determined to be optimal for photosynthesis for both species. High temperatures and irradiances caused a greater decrease in ΔF/Fm’ values. These results suggest that the effects of temperature are species specific and that short‐term exposure to adverse temperature slows the recovery process, which subsequently leads to photoinhibition.
Intraosseous Transcutaneous Amputation Prosthesis (ITAP) for Limb Salvage in 4 Dogs
Authors: Fitzpatrick Noel , Smith Thomas J. , Pendegrass Catherine J. , Yeadon Russell , Ring Michael , Goodship Allen E. , Blunn Gordon W.
Published: November 2011

Objective

To report clinical application of intraosseous transcutaneous amputation prosthesis (ITAP) for limb salvage.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Sample Population

Client owned dogs with malignant neoplasia of the distal aspect of the limb.

Method

Distal limb amputation allowed press‐fit insertion of theITAPinto the radius (n= 3) or tibia (1). Remaining soft tissues including skin were attached directly to theITAP. Limb stump andITAPwere protected by bandaging (1) or external skeletal fixation (3) for 5–6 weeks before exoprosthesis attachment. Measures of outcome included subjective assessments of limb function by owners and veterinarians, radiographic (4) and histologic (1) examination.

Results

Dermal integration with theITAPwas achieved by 3 weeks and dogs were walking in a pain‐free manner by 8 weeks. One dog was administered adjunctive carboplatin chemotherapy. No evidence of local tumor recurrence occurred. In 1 dog,ITAPfracture occurred at 10 weeks and was successfully managed byITAPreplacement. Three dogs were euthanatized because of confirmed or assumed metastatic disease at 8, 12, and 17 months. Histologic examination of theITAP‐limb interface at 1 year documented osseous and dermal integration.

Conclusion

Implantation ofITAPto the distal limb of dogs is feasible and can result in favorable functional outcomes. Biological integration of osseous and dermal tissues withITAPis reliable and robust.
Influence of Durotomy on Laser‐Doppler Measurement of Spinal Cord Blood Flow in Chondrodystrophic Dogs with Thoracolumbar Disk Extrusion
Authors: Blaser Andrea , Lang Johann , Henke Diana , Doherr Marcus G. , Adami Chiara , Forterre Franck
Published: November 2011

Objectives

To assess influence of durotomy on spinal cord blood flow (SCBF) in chondrodystrophic dogs with thoracolumbar disk extrusion.

Study design

Prospective cohort study.

Animals

Chondrodystrophic dogs with thoracolumbar disk extrusion (n = 11).

Methods

Diagnosis was based on neurologic signs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, and surgical confirmation. Regional SCBF was measured 3 times intraoperatively by laser‐Doppler flowmetry: (1) before surgical decompression; (2) immediately after decompression by hemilaminectomy‐durotomy; and (3) after 15 minutes of lesion lavage. A standardized hemilaminectomy and durotomy performed by the same neurosurgeon, was used to minimize factors that could influence measurement readings.

Results

A significant increase in intraoperative SCBF was found immediately after spinal cord decompression and durotomy in dogs but SCBF returned to previous levels or lower after 15 minutes of lavage. Changes in SCBF were not associated with duration of clinical signs; neurologic status, degree of spinal cord compression, or signal intensity changes as assessed by MRI.

Conclusion

Durotomy does not increase SCBF in dogs with disk extrusion associated spinal cord compression.
Comparison of Computed Tomography and Myelography to a Reference Standard of Computed Tomographic Myelography for Evaluation of Dogs with Intervertebral Disc Disease
Authors: Newcomb Brent , Arble Jason , Rochat Mark , Pechman Robert , Payton Mark
Published: November 2011

Objective

To compare the sensitivity of computed tomography (CT) and myelography to a reference standard of CT myelography for determining localization of Type I intervertebral disc extrusions in dogs.

Study Design

Prospective blinded comparative study.

Animals

Dogs with acute onset myelopathy because of suspected disc extrusions (n = 30).

Methods

Dogs had CT, myelography, and CT myelography to diagnose disc extrusions. Sensitivity of CT and myelography was compared to CT myelography for lateral, longitudinal, and combined localization. Confidence in the assessment of each imaging study was scored by 3 reviewers.

Results

Sensitivity of CT for lateral, longitudinal, and combined localization was 94%, 91%, and 81%, respectively, and was 64%, 74%, and 53%, respectively for myelography. Sensitivity of all 3 categories of localization was significantly different between modalities (P < .0001, P = .0031, P < .0001). Significant differences in the sensitivity of lateral and combined localization were found between confidence scores for myelography (P < .0001, P < .0001). Significant differences in the sensitivity of lateral, longitudinal, and combined localization were found between confidence scores for CT (P = .011, P = .013, P = .027). Poor sensitivity was obtained for both modalities except when imaging studies were assigned the highest confidence score.

Conclusions

CT is a more sensitive imaging technique than myelography for localizing disc extrusions when compared to a reference standard of CT myelography. Both modalities yielded high sensitivity with the highest confidence score and poor sensitivity for all other confidence scores.
Influence of Partial Lateral Corpectomy with and without Hemilaminectomy on Canine Thoracolumbar Stability: A Biomechanical Study
Authors: Revés Núria Vizcaíno , Bürki Alexander , Ferguson Stephen , Geissbühler Urs , Stahl Christina , Forterre Frank
Published: November 2011

Objective

To analyze the biomechanical changes induced by partial lateral corpectomy (PLC) and a combination of PLC and hemilaminectomy in a T13‐L3 spinal segment in nonchondrodystrophic dogs.

Study Design

In vitro biomechanical cadaveric study.

Sample Population

T13‐L3 spinal segments (n = 10) of nonchondrodystrophic dogs (weighing, 25–38 kg).

Methods

A computed tomography (CT) scan of each T13‐L3 spinal segment was performed. A loading simulator for flexibility analysis was used to determine the range of motion (ROM) and neutral zone (NZ) during flexion/extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation. A servohydraulic testing machine was used to determine the changes in stiffness during compression, dorsoventral, and lateral shear. All spines were tested intact, after PLC in the left intervertebral space of L1‐L2, and after a combination of PLC and hemilaminectomy.

Results

Statistically significant increases in ROM and NZ (P < .05) were detected during flexion/extension and lateral bending when PLC was performed. A significant increase in ROM (P < .001) was noted during axial rotation and flexion after PLC and hemilaminectomy. Stiffness decreased significantly during compression and dorsoventral shear after each procedure. Decreased stiffness during lateral shear was only significant after a combination of both procedures.

Conclusion

PLC might lead to some spinal instability; these changes are enhanced when a hemilaminectomy is added.
Synthesis and Bioactivity of Sol–Gel Derived Porous, Bioactive Glass Microspheres Using Chitosan as Novel Biomolecular Template
Authors: Lei Bo , Shin Kwan‐Ha , Moon Young‐Wook , Noh Da‐Young , Koh Young‐Hag , Jin Yonghao , Kim Hyoun‐Ee
Published: November 2011

This article reports a novel, simple route for synthesis of sol–gel derived porous, bioactive glass (BG) microspheres using chitosan (CTS) as a biomolecular template in the acid‐catalyzed sol–gel process. The use of CTS, which is a natural biocompatible polymer with a unique molecular structure, allowed the synthesis of BG microparticles with a spherical shape, 5–10 μm in size. Furthermore, pores with a size of 5–40 nm were created entirely throughout BG microspheres, which were formed by removing the network of CTS present initially in the CTS‐BG composite microparticles via heat‐treatment at 600°C for 2 h. These porous BG microspheres induced the vigorous precipitation of apatite crystals on their surface when immersed in simulated body fluid for 24 h, thus suggesting their excellent bioactivity .
Psychological therapies for chronic pelvic pain: systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: CHAMPANERIA RITA , DANIELS JANE P. , RAZA AMER , PATTISON HELEN M. , KHAN KHALID S.
Published: November 2011

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP), a common cause of disability in women, is a condition best viewed in the biopsychosocial framework. Psychological interventions are frequently considered alongside medical and surgical treatments. Our objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of psychological therapies for the treatment of CPP. Electronic literature searches were conducted in Medline, Embase, PsycInfo and DARE databases from database inception to April 2010. Reference lists of selected articles were searched for further articles. The studies selected were randomized controlled trials of psychological therapies in patients with CPP compared with no treatment, standard gynecological treatment or another form of psychological therapy. Two reviewers independently selected articles without language restrictions and extracted data covering study characteristics, study quality and results. Reduction in pain, measured using visual analog scales or other measurements, was the main outcome measure. Of the 107 citations identified, four studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. Compared with no psychological intervention, therapy produced a standardized mean pain score of –3.27 [95% confidence interval (CI) –4.52 to –2.02] and 1.11 (95% CI –0.05 to 2.27) at 3 months and –3.95 (95% CI –5.35 to –2.55) and 0.54 (95% CI –0.78 to 1.86) at 6 months and greater, based on a visual analog scale score of 0–10. The current evidence does not allow us to conclude whether psychological interventions have an effect on self‐reported pain scores in women with CPP.
Prognostic significance of residual tumor in patients with epithelial ovarian carcinoma stage IV in a 20 year perspective
Authors: ELSTRAND MARI B. , SANDSTAD BERIT , OKSEFJELL HALLDIS , DAVIDSON BEN , TROPÉ CLAES G.
Published: November 2011

Objective. We aimed to evaluate prognostic factors impacting on overall survival during a 20 year period with substantial changes in surgical approach and chemotherapy management of patients with epithelial ovarian carcinoma stage IV. Design. A retrospective population‐based study. Setting. The Norwegian Radium Hospital during 1985–2005. Population. Three hundred and ninety‐four patients with epithelial ovarian carcinoma stage IV treated at the Norwegian Radium Hospital. Methods. The cohort was divided into two groups (1985–1995 and 1996–2005), and clinical and pathological characteristics were compared. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors during 1985–1995, 1996–2005 and 1985–2005. Main outcome measures. Prognostic factors and overall survival in the three periods. Results. Median overall survival improved from 1985–1995 to 1996–2005 (from 1.3 to 2.1 years). More patients had macroscopic radical surgery (28 vs. 11%), received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and were treated with platinum–taxane combination therapy from 1996–2005 compared to 1985–1995. Patients with primary surgery had improved median overall survival from 1996–2005 compared to 1985–1995. In multivariate analyses, surgical approach was not a prognostic factor for overall survival, but chemotherapy was during 1985–2005. Postoperative residual tumor was a prognostic factor for overall survival in all periods. Conclusions. Macroscopic radical surgery is a strong prognostic factor for overall survival and is achievable in a subset of patients with epithelial ovarian carcinoma stage IV. Improved selection criteria for what treatment algorithm to choose for patients with epithelial ovarian carcinoma stage IV are warranted.
The microbial flora in the nasal septum area prone to perforation
Authors: HULTERSTRÖM ANNA KARIN , SELLIN MATS , BERGGREN DIANA
Published: November 2011

Hulterström AK, Sellin M, Berggren D. The microbial flora in the nasal septum area prone to perforation. APMIS 2012; 120: 210–4.

To explore the colonizing bacterial flora of the nasal septum area, that is mostly afflicted by perforations, 101 healthy police students had swab samples taken from that location. The described culture strategy recovered positive cultures from 95% of the test subjects and from 60% with more than one organism. In total, 191 bacterial isolates were classified according to colony morphology, Gram‐stain and a panel of standard laboratory techniques. A part of the bacteria was identified to species‐level by biochemical methods and by sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. The predominant finding was Gram‐positive irregular rods – 65 presumptive Corynebacterium isolates, both lipophilic and non‐lipophilic, and 37 anaerobic Propionibacterium isolates. The second largest bacterial group was Gram‐positive catalase‐positive cocci, of which 13 isolates were identified as Staphylococcus aureus and 53 as coagulase‐negative staphylococci. The few potential airway pathogens included Streptococcus pneumonia (n = 1) and Moraxella catarrhalis (n = 3) isolates. The bacterial flora colonizing the nasal septum mainly consists of Gram‐positive bacteria. Although of low virulence, the microbial flora may impact on occlusion treatment of nasal septum perforations with silicone obturators.
Involvement of RAGE, MAPK and NF‐κB pathways in AGEs‐induced MMP‐9 activation in HaCaT keratinocytes
Authors: Zhu Ping , Ren Meng , Yang Chuan , Hu Yong‐Xuan , Ran Jian‐Min , Yan Li
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) exert divergent effects on the pathogenesis of diabetes complications. Excessive expression of matrix metalloproteinases‐9 (MMP‐9) is deleterious to the cutaneous wound‐healing process in the context of diabetes. However, the effect of AGEs on MMP‐9 induction in skin cells and the exact molecular mechanisms involved are still poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the effect of AGEs on the production of MMP‐9 in HaCaT keratinocytes and characterized the signal transduction pathways activated by AGEs that are involved in MMP‐9 regulation. We showed that AGE–BSA increased MMP‐9 expression in HaCaT cells at both the protein and mRNA levels. The stimulatory effect of AGE–BSA on MMP‐9 was attenuated by inhibitors of extracellular‐signal‐regulated kinase (ERK1/2, U0126), p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK, SB203580) and NF‐κB, but not c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase. Furthermore, receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) was expressed in keratinocytes, and incubation with AGE–BSA resulted in a significant upregulation of RAGE expression in a dose‐dependent manner. Silencing of the RAGE gene prevented AGE–BSA‐induced MMP‐9 activation and the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK. We also observed the involvement of NF‐κB in AGE–BSA‐induced MMP‐9 activation, which was not blocked by U0126 and SB203580. These results suggest that AGEs may play an important role in the impairment of diabetic wound healing by upregulating MMP‐9 expression in keratinocytes via the RAGE, ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK pathways; activation of NF‐κB is also involved in this process. These pathways may represent potential targets for drug interventions to improve diabetic wound healing, a process in which MMP‐9 plays a critical role.
Influence of white mineral trioxide aggregate on inflammatory cells before and after expiry date
Authors: Saghiri Mohammad Ali , Lotfi Mehrdad , Shokouhinejad Noushin , Asgar Kamal , Mehrvarzfar Payman
Published: November 2011

Abstract–  Introduction: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of subcutaneously implanted white mineral trioxide aggregate (WMTA) on inflammatory reactions before and after expiry date. Methods: Fifty Wistar rats were used in this study. Polyethylene tubes were filled with WMTA with expiry dates of 2008, 2009, and 2011, and empty ones serving as the controls were implanted into the subcutaneous tissue. The rats were sacrificed at 7‐, 14‐, 28‐, and 60‐day intervals. 5‐μm sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and observed under a light microscope. Inflammatory reactions were categorized as 0, none (without inflammatory cells); 1, mild (inflammatory cells < 25); 2, moderate (25–125 inflammatory cells); and 3, severe (more than 125 inflammatory cells). Statistical analysis was performed with Kruskal–Wallis test. Results: All the experimental materials provoked moderate to severe inflammatory reactions after 7 days, which significantly differed from the control group (P < 0.05). At 14‐day interval, WMTA with expiry date of 2008 and the control group elicited mild to moderate infiltration of inflammatory cells. However, WMTA with expiry dates of 2009 and 2011 provoked moderate to severe inflammatory reactions, which were significantly different from WMTA with expiry date of 2008 and the control group (P < 0.05). At 28‐ and 60‐day intervals, the overall inflammation subsided in all the groups to mild to moderate infiltration of inflammatory cells without any significant differences (P < 0.05). Conclusion: It seems that the expiry date has less negative effects on the response of inflammatory cells. WMTA keeps its biocompatibility even after expiry date.
Short‐term vs long‐term calcium hydroxide therapy after immediate tooth replantation: a histomorphometric study in monkey’s teeth
Authors: Panzarini Sônia Regina , Gulinelli Jéssica Lemos , Saito Célia T. M. H. , Poi Wilson Roberto , Sonoda Celso Koogi , Américo de Oliveira José , Melo Moriel Evangelista , de Souza Gomes Weglis Dyanne
Published: November 2011

Abstract –  Endodontic treatment is an important step of tooth replantation protocols, but the ideal moment for definitive obturation of replanted teeth has not yet been established. In this study, a histomorphometric analysis was undertaken to evaluate the repair process on immediate replantation of monkey’s teeth after calcium hydroxide (CH) therapy for 1 and 6 months followed by root canal filling with a CH‐based sealer (Sealapex®). The maxillary and mandibular lateral incisors of five female Cebus apella monkeys were extracted, kept in sterile saline for 15 min, replanted and splinted with stainless steel orthodontic wire and composite resin for 10 days. In Group I (control), definitive root canal filling was performed before tooth extraction. In Groups II and III, CH therapy started after removal of splint, and definitive root canal filling was performed 1 and 6 months later, respectively. The animals were euthanized 9 months after replantation, and specimens were processed for histomorphometric analysis. In all groups, epithelial attachment occurred at the cementoenamel junction or very close to this region; the areas of resorption on root surface had small extension and depth and were repaired by newly formed cementum; and the periodontal ligament was organized. Statistical analysis of the scores obtained for the histomorphometric parameters did not show any statistically significant difference (P = 0.1221) among the groups. The results suggests that when endodontic treatment is initiated 10 days after immediate replantation and an antibiotic regimen is associated, definitive root canal filling can be performed after a short‐term CH therapy.
In vitro antibacterial activity of different endodontic irrigants
Authors: Poggio Claudio , Colombo Marco , Scribante Andrea , Sforza Dario , Bianchi Stefano
Published: November 2011

Abstract –  Aim: The objective of this study was to compare in vitro the antibacterial activity of Tetraclean (mixture of doxycycline, citric acid and polypropylene glycol), Niclor 5 (5.25% sodium hypochlorite solution), Cloreximid (0.2% chlorhexidine and 0.2% cetrimide solution) and hydrogen peroxide 12 volumes on three endodontic pathogens associated with primary endodontic infections. Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus strains were selected to evaluate the antibacterial activity of endodontic irrigants by the agar disc‐diffusion test. Material and methods: Paper discs were saturated with each one of the test solutions (at room temperature and preheating at 50°C) and placed onto culture agar‐plates preadsorbed with bacterial cells and further incubated for 24 h at 37°C. The growth inhibition zones around each irrigant were recorded and compared for each bacterial strain. Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests were applied to compare the various groups. Results: At room temperature, Tetraclean showed significantly higher inhibition of bacteria growth than all other irrigants tested. Preheating at 50°C significantly increased growth inhibition for all the groups tested. At 50°C, hydrogen peroxide 12 volumes and Tetraclean showed significantly higher efficacy than all other irrigants tested. Conclusions: 50°C‐preheated hydrogen peroxide 12 volumes and Tetraclean showed highest inhibition of the bacterial growth.
Die argumentative Logik der Tabakmandate des Alten Bern: Eine historische Policy‐Analyse
Authors: Cranmer Mirjam , Petit Raphael , Sager Fritz
Published: November 2011

Zusammenfassung:  Die Analyse dynamischer sozialer Phänomene stellt sowohl für die Sozial‐ als auch die Geisteswissenschaften eine Herausforderung dar. Ziel dieses Artikels ist es, einen auf

Dunn (2004)

aufbauenden Analyseraster auf seine Durchführbarkeit anhand einer Analyse von Policy‐Argumenten in historischen Dokumenten zu testen. Ein Längsschnittvergleich von Struktur und Form der Policy‐Argumente in den Tabakmandaten der Stadt Bern von 1659 bis 1723 zeigt einen Wandel der Tabakpolitik des Alten Berns in der Ortung der gesellschaftlichen Probleme, ihrer Ursachen, den damit festgelegten Massnahmen und derer Legitimation auf. Insgesamt impliziert dieses Resultat, dass unsere Methode für die Analyse historischer Policy‐Argumente geeignet ist.
Split‐thickness skin graft donor site management: a randomized controlled trial comparing polyurethane with calcium alginate dressings
Authors: Higgins Louise , Wasiak Jason , Spinks Anneliese , Cleland Heather
Published: November 2011

Split‐thickness skin grafting (SSG) is a common reconstructive technique for the treatment of patients with deep burns and other traumatic injuries. The management of the donor site after harvesting an SSG remains controversial because of a variety of dressings available for use. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to compare the effectiveness of a polyurethane dressing, Allevyn™, to a calcium alginate, Kaltostat®. From August 2009 to April 2010, 36 patients were randomized to Allevyn™ or Kaltostat® for donor site management following split skin graft surgery. Pain intensity and adverse events were the primary outcomes assessed. Secondary outcome measures included time for wound healing, ease of application and removal and overall patient satisfaction. Time to first dressing change was earlier in those randomized to Allevyn™ compared with Kaltostat® (5·5 days versus 8·11 days, P = 0·014). In patients randomized to Allevyn™, excessive exudate lead to a significantly increased number of dressing changes before day 10 (14 days versus 7 days, P = 0·018). The total number of dressing changes applied was also greater in those with Allevyn™ compared with Kaltstat® (P = 0·007). There were no significant differences between the two treatment groups with respect to time to wound healing, level of pain intensity, length of stay, staff and patient satisfaction levels. This trial showed Allevyn™ to be associated with increase demands on nursing time, increased cost of dressing products, medical consumables and wastes. Kaltostat® remains the dressing of choice for initial donor site dressing in this burns unit.
Treatment of chronic heel osteomyelitis in vasculopathic patients. Can the combined use of Integra®, skin graft and negative pressure wound therapy be considered a valid therapeutic approach after partial tangential calcanectomy?
Authors: Fraccalvieri Marco , Pristerà Giuseppe , Zingarelli Enrico , Ruka Erind , Bruschi Stefano
Published: November 2011

Osteomyelitis of the calcaneus is a difficult problem to manage. Patients affected by osteomyelitis of the calcaneus often have a below‐the‐knee amputation because of their comorbidity. In this article, we present seven cases of heel ulcerations with chronic osteomyelitis treated with Integra® Dermal Regeneration Template, skin graft and negative pressure wound therapy after partial tangential calcanectomy, discussing the surgical and functional results. In this casuistic of patients, all wounds healed after skin grating of the neodermis generated by Integra®, with no patient requiring a below‐knee amputation.
Potential role of statins on wound healing: review of the literature
Authors: Farsaei Shadi , Khalili Hossein , Farboud Effat Sadat
Published: November 2011

Wound healing is a dynamic and complex biological process, which requires coordinated events including haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, revascularisation and remodelling. Impaired wound healing is a common problem that occurs in both community and hospital settings. Various experimental and clinical studies have evaluated different modalities for the treatment of topical wounds, such as sugar, antibiotics, honey and phytotherapies; also statins have diverse pleiotropic effects that have been suggested to be useful to improve wound healing. Data derived from both animal and human studies showed that statins especially atorvastatin, simvastatin and pravastatin can accelerate the wound‐healing process. However, further high‐quality and evidence‐based studies are needed to address the best statin drug, appropriate dose, the best administration route, duration of treatment and to determine correlation between pleiotropic effects of statins and their probable clinical benefits.
Effect of Rosmarinic Acid on Experimental Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Jiang Wang‐Lin , Xu Yong , Zhang Shu‐Ping , Hou Jian , Zhu Hai‐Bo
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) plays a pathogenic role in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a naturally occurring phenolic acid. This study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of RA on DN and to elucidate the potential mechanism. High glucose (HG)‐stimulated cultured human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK‐2) analysed CTGF expression by western blotting, and it was investigated whether extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) signalling pathway was involved. Using streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced rat animal models, diabetic rats were randomized to receive intragastric (i.g.) doses of RA. Renal tissue, blood and urine samples were collected to determine biochemical index and analyse protein expression. In vitro study, RA reduced CTGF excretion in HG‐induced HK‐2 cells through the ERK signalling pathway. In an in vivo study, I.g. of RA 7.5 or 15 mg/kg significantly ameliorated renal function and increased body‐weight. Meanwhile, RA reduced renal CTGF expression by immunohistochemical staining and reduced serum levels of CTGF. Besides, there were no significant differences in glycaemia levels between the RA groups compared with the STZ‐treated group. Furthermore, RA ameliorated renal pathology. These results suggest that RA exerts an early renal protective role to DN. Inhibition of CTGF may be a potential target in DN therapy, which highlights the possibility of using RA in the treatment of DN.
The Political Economy of the Three Gorges Project
Authors: WEBBER MICHAEL
Published: November 2011

This paper examines the debates over the decision to build the Three Gorges Dam, the subsequent flows of income to the firms involved in its construction, and the continuing implications of the dam for the Chinese space economy. The paper makes and justifies three claims. First, the construction project has been responsible for both dispossession and the formation of capital (primitive accumulation). But it is too simple to interpret the project as merely the face of modernity or development: proponents were reflecting traditional attitudes to bureaucracy and environmental management, whereas opponents sought liberalisation, marketisation, and opening up. It turns out that the concept of modernity, as a western programme introduced into China after the formation of the People's Republic, is of remarkably little value in understanding the construction of this dam. Secondly, the decision to build the dam reflects both structure and happenstance – particular political events and individuals were critical. Notably, the project shows few signs of having come into being to absorb over‐accumulated capital: mega‐projects like this do not have to satisfy any capitalist logic. Finally, I emphasise that such huge projects have long run effects on the structure of power in China – indeed, events at Three Gorges underpinned much of the later debate and struggle over dams on the Mekong, Salween, and Changjiang above Three Gorges.
Infrared (810 nm) Low‐Level Laser Therapy in Experimental Model of Strain‐Induced Skeletal Muscle Injury in Rats: Effects on Functional Outcomes
Authors: Ramos Luciano , Leal Junior Ernesto Cesar Pinto , Pallotta Rodney Capp , Frigo Lucio , Marcos Rodrigo Labat , de Carvalho Maria Helena Catelli , Bjordal Jan Magnus , Lopes‐Martins Rodrigo Álvaro Brandão
Published: November 2011

Muscle strains are among the most prevalent causes for athletes’ absence from sport activities. Low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) has recently emerged as a potential contender to nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in muscle strain treatment. In this work we investigated effects of LLLT and diclofenac on functional outcomes in the acute stage after muscle strain injury in rats. Muscle strain was induced by overloading the tibialis anterior muscle of rats during anesthesia. The injured groups received either no treatment, or a single treatment with diclofenac 30 min prior to injury, or LLLT (810 nm, 100 mW) with doses of 1, 3, 6 or 9 J, at 1 h after injury. Functional outcome measures included a walking index and assessment of electrically induced muscle performance. All treatments (except 9 J LLLT) significantly improved the walking index 12 h postinjury compared with the untreated group. The 3 J group also showed a significantly better walking index than the drug group. All treatments significantly improved muscle performance at 6 and 12 h. LLLT dose of 3 J was as effective as the pharmacological agent in improving functional outcomes in the early phase after a muscle strain injury in rats.
Two cases of bare bone graft with dental implant for mandibular defect
Authors: Noguchi T. , Tsuchiya Y. , Itoh H. , Jinbu Y. , Tsukinoki K. , Sarukawa S. , Sugawara Y. , Ohiwa I. , Kusama M.
Published: November 2011

Bare bone graft is a method of mandibular reconstruction involving vascularised iliac bone graft without a skin flap, and secondary epithelialisation of the exposed iliac bone surface in the oral cavity. We herein report two cases of bare bone graft with dental implant for mandibular defect after tumour resection. Case 1: A 36‐year‐old woman with odontogenic myxoma of the left mandible underwent reconstruction with a free vascularised iliac flap after segmental resection of the mandible. The exposed iliac bone surface in the oral cavity required about 2 months for epithelialisation. Two implants were placed into the reconstructed mandible 12 months after initial surgery, and prosthetic rehabilitation was performed successfully after 6 months of osseointegration period. Case 2: A 32‐year‐old woman with desmoplastic ameloblastoma of the right mandible underwent reconstruction using free iliac bone after segmental resection of the mandible. As the reconstructed bone failed after surgery, the left mandible was reconstructed using a free vascularised iliac flap. The exposed iliac bone surface in the oral cavity required about 2 months for epithelialisation. Four implants were placed into the reconstructed mandible 17 months after surgery, and prosthetic rehabilitation was performed successfully after 6 months of osseointegration period. In both cases, the mandibular contour and occlusal function were satisfactory.
Reexamining the science of marine protected areas: linking knowledge to action
Authors: Fox Helen E. , Mascia Michael B. , Basurto Xavier , Costa Alice , Glew Louise , Heinemann Dennis , Karrer Leah B. , Lester Sarah E. , Lombana Alfonso V. , Pomeroy Robert S. , Recchia Cheri A. , Roberts Callum M. , Sanchirico James N. , Pet‐Soede Lida , White Alan T.
Published: November 2011

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are often implemented to conserve or restore species, fisheries, habitats, ecosystems, and ecological functions and services; buffer against the ecological effects of climate change; and alleviate poverty in coastal communities. Scientific research provides valuable insights into the social and ecological impacts of MPAs, as well as the factors that shape these impacts, providing useful guidance or “rules of thumb” for science‐based MPA policy. Both ecological and social factors foster effective MPAs, including substantial coverage of representative habitats and oceanographic conditions; diverse size and spacing; protection of habitat bottlenecks; participatory decision‐making arrangements; bounded and contextually appropriate resource use rights; active and accountable monitoring and enforcement systems; and accessible conflict resolution mechanisms. For MPAs to realize their full potential as a tool for ocean governance, further advances in policy‐relevant MPA science are required. These research frontiers include MPA impacts on nontarget and wide‐ranging species and habitats; impacts beyond MPA boundaries, on ecosystem services, and on resource‐dependent human populations, as well as potential scale mismatches of ecosystem service flows. Explicitly treating MPAs as “policy experiments” and employing the tools of impact evaluation holds particular promise as a way for policy‐relevant science to inform and advance science‐based MPA policy.
Agriculture—a key element for conservation in the developing world
Authors: Wright Hugh L. , Lake Iain R. , Dolman Paul M.
Published: November 2011

Conserving biodiversity through supporting or mimicking traditional management of anthropogenic habitats is a paradigm in the developed world, particularly Europe. It is rarely applied in developing countries where forest biota are more common foci. We quantified the numbers of globally threatened bird species using anthropogenic habitats and examined scientific literature to identify those that are dependent on low‐impact agriculture in the developing world. Such dependency is distinct from species using farmland to supplement or move between their remnant natural habitats. We show that low‐impact agriculture is important to a number of threatened open‐habitat species in a variety of farming systems. However, these systems are expected to undergo widespread transformation due to economic change. Conservation must identify valuable farmed landscapes and seek new mechanisms to maintain or mimic important land‐management techniques in developing countries. A suite of policy instruments should be considered to provide incentives or development benefits that encourage farmers to manage landscapes for wildlife. The land sparing approach to balancing biodiversity conservation and agricultural production will be detrimental to those open‐habitat bird species dependent on agriculture; a mix of agricultural land‐use types may offer the best compromise.