bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing habitat configuration strategies for retaining biodiversity under climate change
Authors: Mokany Karel , Harwood Thomas D. , Ferrier Simon
Published: March 2013

Establishing new conservation reserves is a key management response to promote the persistence of biodiversity under climate change. Although there are many approaches to designing reserves, quantitatively assessing the performance of alternative habitat configuration strategies in retaining biodiversity has been limited by the lack of suitable modelling frameworks.

Here, we apply a new dynamic macroecological modelling approach to compare the outcomes under climate change for plant biodiversity inTasmania (all 2051 species) when new conservation reserves are established according to four contrasting reserve design strategies: connectivity; aggregation; representativeness; and a balanced approach.

The most effective reserve design strategy under climate change depended on the specific conservation goal. New reserves focussed on improving representativeness most effectively promoted regional gamma diversity; however, the aggregation and balanced strategies best promoted the mean area of occurrence across all species.

As the modelled level of dispersal increased, the connectivity strategy became relatively less effective, and the aggregation strategy relatively more effective in retaining biodiversity.

Synthesis and applications. Our results demonstrate that adherence to a single habitat configuration strategy, such as connectivity, is unlikely to result in the best outcomes for biodiversity under climate change. The best reserve design strategy under climate change will vary between regions due to unique combinations of attributes and between taxa due to contrasting dispersal abilities. Quantitative assessments, such as ours, are required to identify configurations that will best retain the biodiversity of each region under climate change.
Soft Competition: Finland, Sweden and the Northern Dimension of the European Union
Authors: Gebhard Carmen
Published: March 2013

In the context of European integration, Sweden and Finland are frequently seen as natural allies. Based on a number of perceived similarities, their shared Nordic heritage, established historical ties and their concurrent accession to the European Union (EU), they are rarely seen as competitors or proponents of diverging points of view. Their alignment within the EU, over sub‐regional issues surrounding Northern Europe in particular, is often rather taken as a given. By focusing on the specific conduct of Sweden and Finland as regional stakeholders in the Baltic Sea Region (BSR) and the way they have played this role within the EU, this article seeks to challenge these common assumptions. It shows that Sweden and Finland do not converge in their positions, also in matters concerning the EU's Northern Dimension – that is, a policy that distinctly furthers regional core issues whose promotion within the EU could be in both states' interest. Instead of pooling forces to attain greater leverage within the EU, Sweden and Finland rather compete with each other in this regard. Using the example of the Finnish Northern Dimension initiative, this article shows how Sweden and Finland have promoted sub‐regional matters through different political and organizational channels, keeping bilateral cooperation to a minimum and leaving potential avenues of pooled action at the EU level aside. The article thus concludes that the concept of a Swedish‐Finnish tandem within the EU needs to be looked at more critically when it comes to explaining or predicting their conduct as Member States.
Institutional determinants of downsizing
Authors: Muñoz‐Bullón Fernando , Sánchez‐Bueno María J.
Published: March 2013

This study analyses the institutional determinants of downsizing in an economy with a highly rigid labour market: Spain. Our focus is first placed on the impact that the system of severance payment has on downsizing adoption. In particular, we analyse whether the regulatory environment can explain variations in employers' downsizing use. In addition, we analyse how organisations imitate one another in implementing downsizing, presumably in a quest for legitimacy. The evidence provided indicates that low levels of severance payments incurred by downsizers in the past promotes downsizing in the present, but too high severance payments discourages downsizing. Therefore, firms in Spain are constrained by regulatory forces stemming from labour law. Our results also reflect the importance of rational myths in downsizing because companies imitate the decisions on downsizing widely used in their industry and, particularly, those adopted by industry leaders.
Towards Learning Standards in Economics in Australia
Authors: Guest Ross
Published: March 2013

This paper discusses the development of learning standards in higher education economics in Australia. The motivation is twofold. The creation of Tertiary Education Quality Standards Agency in 2011, along with the revised Australian Qualifications Framework specifications published in July 2011, have given the learning standards agenda a new impetus in Australia. Work has been done overseas on learning standards in economics through the UK Benchmarking Statement and the OECD's Assessment of Higher Education Learning Outcomes study. However, a key finding from learning standards projects in Australia in other disciplines is that the Australian academic community needs to take ownership of the standards agenda as a pre‐condition for general acceptance and successful implementation. Second, the development of learning standards in economics is an opportunity to drive an evidence‐based process of curriculum renewal, including critical reflection on core knowledge, skills and assessment methods.
Is there useful information in the ‘use of proceeds’ disclosures in IPO prospectuses?
Authors: Wyatt Anne
Published: March 2013

This study contributes evidence on the valuation relevance of the ‘use of proceeds’ disclosure in the initial public offering (IPO) prospectus. This article develops a classification of ‘use of proceeds’ disclosures that aims to capture information embedded in the disclosures relating to the purpose (growth, production, financing) and amount committed to specific assets. These measures are then related to IPO underpricing, survival prediction and expected and realised prospects of the IPOs. The results suggest the ‘use of proceeds’ disclosure categories have incremental information over other sources of information for underpricing, for predicting firm survival and in the case of some disclosure categories, for investors’ evaluation of the firms’ prospects and risks in the early years after listing.
Phosphate: an old bone molecule but new cardiovascular risk factor
Authors: Shobeiri Navid , Adams Michael A. , Holden Rachel M.
Published: March 2013

Phosphate handling in the body is complex and involves hormones produced by the bone, the parathyroid gland and the kidneys. Phosphate is mostly found in hydroxyapatite. however recent evidence suggests that phosphate is also a signalling molecule associated with bone formation. Phosphate balance requires careful regulation of gut and kidney phosphate transporters, SLC34 transporter family, but phosphate signalling in osteoblasts and vascular smooth muscle cells is likely mediated by the SLC20 transporter family (PiT1 and PiT2). If not properly regulated, phosphate imblanace could lead to mineral disorders as well as vascular calcification. In chronic kidney disease‐mineral bone disorder, hyperphosphataemia has been consistently associated with extra‐osseous calcification and cardiovascular disease. This review focuses on the physiological mechanisms involved in phosphate balance and cell signalling (i.e. osteoblasts and vascular smooth muscle cells) as well as pathological consequences of hyperphosphataemia. Finally, conventional as well as new and experimental therapeutics in the treatment of hyperphosphataemia are explored.
Neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) levels in response to unilateral renal ischaemia in a novel pilot two‐kidney porcine model
Authors: Silberstein Jonathan L. , Sprenkle Preston C. , Su Daniel , Power Nicholas E. , Tarin Tatum V. , Ezell Paula , Sjoberg Daniel D. , Feifer Andrew , Fleisher Martin , Russo Paul , Touijer Karim A.
Published: March 2013

Objectives

To test a novel porcine two‐kidney model for evaluating the effect of controlled acute kidney injury (AKI) related to induced unilateral ischaemia on both renal units (RUs)

To use neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) and physiological serum and urinary markers to assess AKI and renal function.

Methods

Twelve female Yorkshire pigs had bilateral cutaneous ureterostomies placed laparoscopically with identical duration of pneumoperitoneum for all cases.

An experimental group (n = 9) underwent induced unilateral renal ischaemia with left hilar clamping of timed duration (15, 30, 60 min) and a control group (n = 3) had no induced renal ischaemia.

Urine was collected and analysed from each RU to assess creatinine and NGAL concentration preoperatively and at multiple postoperative time points. Serum was collected and analysed daily for creatinine and NGAL levels.

Statistical comparisons were made using the rank‐sum and sign‐rank tests.

Results

Three pigs were excluded because of intra‐operative and postoperative complications.

In the RUs that experienced renal ischaemia (n = 7),the median urine volume was lower (P = 0.04) at 6, 12, 24 and 48 h and the median NGAL concentration was higher (P = 0.04) at 12 and 48 h compared with the RUs of control pigs that experienced no renal ischaemia (n = 2).

When comparing the ischaemic (left) RU of the pigs in the experimental group with their contralateral non‐ischaemic (right) RU, ischaemic RUs had a lower median cumulative urine volume at 6, 12, 24 and 48 h (P = 0.05) and a higher median NGAL concentration at 12, 24 and 48 h (P < 0.05).

At 48 h, no significant increase was found in serum NGAL in pigs in the experimental group compared with controls (P = 0.2).

Creatinine clearance (CC) was lower in ischaemic RUs compared with non‐ischaemic RUs 1 day after surgery (P = 0.04) with decreasing CC as the duration of ischaemia increased.

Conclusions

We have developed a promising novel small‐scale pilot surgical model that allowed the evaluation of bilateral RU function separately during and after unilateral renal ischaemia.

The induction of unilateral renal ischaemia corresponds with physiological changes in both the ischaemic and contralateral RU.

AKI as measured by increases in NGAL and decreased renal function as measured by decreases in CC, are specific to the RU exposed to ischaemia.
Validation of Formylchromane Derivatives as Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B Inhibitors by Pharmacophore Modeling, Atom‐Based 3D‐QSAR and Docking Studies
Authors: Malla Priyanka , Kumar Rajnish , Kumar Manoj
Published: March 2013

Formylchromane derivatives were reported to possess irreversible and selective inhibition on human protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP 1B). Inhibition of PTP 1B is a molecular level legitimate approach for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). 3D‐QSAR studies were performed on a series of formylchromane derivatives using partial least square (PLS) analysis for correlating molecular architecture of the analogs with their PTP 1B inhibitory activity. A five‐point pharmacophore hypothesis with three hydrogen bond acceptors (A) and two aromatic rings (R) as pharmacophoric features was developed using phase module of Schrödinger suite. The hypothesis AAARR.160 was considered as best hypothesis in this study characterized by survival score (3.483), the best cross‐validated r2 (Q2) (0.774), regression coefficient (0.960), Pearson‐R (0.891), and F value (100.3). The results of hypothesis AAARR.160 complimented very closely to interactions witnessed in active site of the ligand‐bound complex. The molecular docking simulations into PTP 1B active site also highlighted that biphenyl moiety favorably interacted with amino acid residues lining the lipophilic pocket, and provided hydrophobic interactions with receptor active site. These observations might be useful for further development and optimization of new chemical entities as potential PTP 1B inhibitors prior to its synthesis.
Pathogenic roles of antiganglioside antibodies in immune‐mediated neuropathies
Authors: Kaida Kenichi
Published: March 2013

Recent studies have shown that antiganglioside antibody‐mediated complement activation plays a key role in development of Guillain–Barré syndrome and related disorders. Additionally, complement‐independent nerve dysfunction is suggested by in vitro studies, showing that antiganglioside antibodies directly inhibit voltage‐gated Ca channel currents and change the integrity of lipid rafts. These pathogenic actions of antiganglioside antibodies might be governed by the avidity of the antibodies, which is influenced by specific localization of target gangliosides in the peripheral nervous system or glycolipid environment around the target antigens. The recent discovery of antibodies to ganglioside complexes has expedited the understanding of the mechanisms underlying antiganglioside antibody‐mediated nerve dysfunction in Guillain–Barré syndrome and related disorders. In chronic immune‐mediated neuropathy, some antiganglioside antibodies have also been identified as diagnostic markers, although their pathophysiological roles remain to be determined.
Immediate versus Conventional Loading of Post‐Extraction Implants in the Edentulous Jaws
Authors: Testori Tiziano , Zuffetti Francesco , Capelli Matteo , Galli Fabio , Weinstein Roberto L. , Del Fabbro Massimo
Published: March 2013

Purpose

This retrospective study deals with the issue of how to realize the transition from a failing dentition to an implant‐supported prosthesis. The main aim was to assess the reliability of immediate implant and immediate loading (IL) protocols in the edentulous jaws. A further aim was to investigate the role of patient‐related, implant‐related, and surgery‐related secondary variables in the occurrence of implant failure.

Materials and Methods

Patients with at least a 4‐year post‐loading follow‐up undergoing the transition from a failing dentition to an implant‐supported prosthesis were retrospectively investigated. Primary variables of implant failure were immediate placement and IL. Secondary variables were categorized as demographic, anatomic, site, and prosthetically related. Cumulative survival rates (CSRs) were compared using the Kaplan‐Meier survival estimate method. Predictors of failure were included in a multivariate Cox regression model to evaluate the simultaneous effects of multiple covariates and control for correlated observation. Crestal bone loss was also measured at the delayed and the immediately loaded implants.

Results

Five hundred nineteen implants rehabilitating 91 jaws in 80 patients were followed. The Kaplan‐Meier survival estimate method showed that immediate implant and IL decreased the CSR significantly in the maxilla but not in the mandible. Some secondary variables were found to affect the CSR: maxillary location, age over 70 years, prostheses supported by only immediate implants or a majority of them, temporary cementation, implant diameter, and length. Crestal bone loss was not significantly related to the outcomes.

Conclusions

The present data may provide clinical recommendations to the practitioner treating the transitional patient. In the mandible, the use of immediate implants and IL does not increase the failure rate. In the maxilla however, combining immediate placement and IL may significantly increase the failure rate.
Application of thermochromic colorants on textiles: temperature dependence of colorimetric properties
Authors: Chowdhury Muksit A , Butola Bhupendra S , Joshi Mangala
Published: March 2013

Commercial thermochromic colorants were applied to a conductive cotton fabric prepared by using nichrome/cotton core‐spun yarns in weft and 100% cotton in warp. The fabrics were pretreated and coloured with thermochromic pigments in isolation, in combination with each other, or in a mixture with a non‐thermochromic pigment. The weft yarns were joined to allow passage of current through the fabric to enable ohmic heat generation to increase fabric temperature. The heat generation and temperature rise could be controlled by monitoring the voltage applied. The colour of the samples changed gradually with an increase in temperature, and significantly so when the temperature of the fabric rose beyond the activation temperature of the thermochromic colorant. The temperature‐dependent properties of commercial thermochromic colorants were determined using a spectrophotometer. Wash fastness of the samples was found to be fair in all cases except with the yellow colorant. Predetermined colour effects, such as camouflage or novel design, can be produced by combining thermochromic colorants with conventional pigments or thermochromic colorants with different activation temperatures.
Quercetin induces cytochrome‐c release and ROS accumulation to promote apoptosis and arrest the cell cycle in G2/M, in cervical carcinoma: signal cascade and drug‐DNA interaction
Authors: Bishayee K. , Ghosh S. , Mukherjee A. , Sadhukhan R. , Mondal J. , Khuda‐Bukhsh A. R.
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Small aromatic compounds like flavonoids can intercalate with DNA molecules bringing about conformational changes leading to reduced replication and transcription. Here, we have examined one dietary flavonoid, quercetin (found in many fruit and vegetables), for possible anti‐cancer effects, on HeLa cells originally derived from a case of human cervical cancer.

Material and methods

By circular dichroism spectroscopy we tested whether quercetin effectively interacted with DNA to bring about conformational changes that would strongly inhibit proliferation and migration of the HeLa cells. Cytotoxic effects of quercetin on cancer/normal cells, if any, were determined by MTT assay and such depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential, as a consequence of quercetin treatment, and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) also were studied, by FACS analysis and expression profiles of different anti‐ and pro‐apoptotic genes and their products were determined.

Results

Quercetin intercalated with calf thymus cell DNA and HeLa cell DNA and inhibition of anti‐apoptotic AKT and Bcl‐2 expression were observed. Levels of mitochondrial cytochrome‐c were elevated and depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential occurred with increase of ROS; upregulation of expression of p53 and caspase‐3 activity were also noted. These alterations in signalling proteins and externalization of phosphotidyl serine residues were involved with initiation of apoptosis. Reduced AKT expression suggested reduction in cell proliferation and metastasis potential, with arrest of the cell cycle at G2/M.

Conclusion

Quercetin would have potential for use in cervical cancer chemotherapy.
Hypericum perforatum L. subsp. perforatum induces inhibition of free radicals and enhanced phototoxicity in human melanoma cells under ultraviolet light
Authors: Menichini G. , Alfano C. , Marrelli M. , Toniolo C. , Provenzano E. , Statti G. A. , Nicoletti M. , Menichini F. , Conforti F.
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Our interest continues in discovering phytocomplexes from medicinal plants with phototoxic activity against human melanoma cells; thus the aim of the present study was to assess antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and phototoxic activity of Hypericum perforatum L. subsp. perforatum, and relate these properties to the plant's chemical composition.

Materials and methods

Components of H. perforatum subsp. perforatum were extracted by hydroalcoholic solution and chemical profiles of preparations (HyTE‐3) performed by HPTLC. Linoleic acid peroxidation and DPPH tests were used to assess antioxidant activity, while MTT assay allowed evaluation of anti‐proliferative activity with respect to A375 human melanoma cells after irradiation with UVA dose, 1.8 J/cm2. Inhibition of nitric oxide production of macrophages was also investigated.

Results

HyTE‐3 indicated better antioxidant activity with β‐carotene bleaching test in comparison to DPPH assay (IC50 = 0.89 μg/ml); significant phototoxicity in A375 cells at 78 μg/ml concentration resulted in cell destruction of 50%. HyTE‐3 caused significant dose‐related inhibition of nitric oxide production in murine monocytic macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 with IC50 value of 342 μg/ml.

Conclusions

The H. perforatum subsp. perforatum‐derived product was able to suppress proliferation of human malignant melanoma A375 cells; extract together with UVA irradiation enhanced phototoxicity. This biological activity of antioxidant effects was combined with inhibition of nitric oxide production.
Genista sessilifolia DC. extracts induce apoptosis across a range of cancer cell lines
Authors: Bontempo P. , Rigano D. , Doto A. , Formisano C. , Conte M. , Nebbioso A. , Carafa V. , Caserta G. , Sica V. , Molinari A. M. , Altucci L.
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Restorative properties of medicinal plants such as Genista sessilifolia DC. have often been suggested to occur, in epidemiological studies. However, full characterization of effective principles responsible for this action has never previously been performed. Here, we have characterized G. sessilifolia's anti‐cancer effects and identified the chemical components involved in this anti‐tumour action.

Materials and methods

Cell cycle, apoptosis, necrosis, differentiation analyses, high‐performance liquid chromatography, western blotting, RNA extraction, real‐time PCR and primers have all been observed/used in the study.

Results

We report that G. sessilifolia methanol extract has anti‐cancer activity on solid and haematological cancer cells. G. sessilifolia extract's anti‐proliferative action is closely bound to induction of apoptosis, whereas differentiation is only weakly modulated. Analysis of G. sessilifolia extract, by high‐performance liquid chromatography, identifies fraction 18–22 as the pertinent component for induction of apoptosis, whereas fractions 11–13 and 27–30 both seem to contribute to differentiation. G. sessilifolia extract induces apoptosis mediated by caspase activation and p21, Rb, p53, Bcl2‐associated agonist of cell death (BAD), tumour necrosis factor receptor super‐family, member 10 (TRAIL) overexpression and death receptor 5 (DR5). Accordingly, fraction 18–22 inducing apoptosis was able to induce TRAIL.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that G. sessilifolia extract and its fraction 18–22 containing genistin and isoprunetin, were able to induce anti‐cancer effects supporting the hypothesis of a pro‐apoptotic intrinsic content of this natural medicinal plant.
Objects, numbers, fingers, space: clustering of ventral and dorsal functions in young children and adults
Authors: Chinello Alessandro , Cattani Veronica , Bonfiglioli Claudia , Dehaene Stanislas , Piazza Manuela
Published: March 2013

In the primate brain, sensory information is processed along two partially segregated cortical streams: the ventral stream, mainly coding for objects' shape and identity, and the dorsal stream, mainly coding for objects' quantitative information (including size, number, and spatial position). Neurophysiological measures indicate that such functional segregation is present early on in infancy, and that the two streams follow independent maturational trajectories during childhood. Here we collected, in a large sample of young children and adults, behavioural measures on an extensive set of functions typically associated with either the dorsal or the ventral stream. We then used a correlational approach to investigate the presence of inter‐individual variability resulting in clustering of functions. Results show that dorsal‐ and ventral‐related functions follow two uncorrelated developmental trajectories. Moreover, within each stream, some functions show age‐independent correlations: finger gnosis, non‐symbolic numerical abilities and spatial abilities within the dorsal stream, and object and face recognition abilities within the ventral stream. This pattern of clear within‐stream cross‐task correlation seems to be lost in adults, with two notable exceptions: performance in face and object recognition on one side, and in symbolic and non‐symbolic comparison on the other, remain correlated, pointing to distinct shape recognition and quantity comparison systems.
Children with autism can track others' beliefs in a competitive game
Authors: Peterson Candida C. , Slaughter Virginia , Peterson James , Premack David
Published: March 2013

Theory of mind (ToM) development, assessed via ‘litmus’ false belief tests, is severely delayed in autism, but the standard testing procedure may underestimate these children's genuine understanding. To explore this, we developed a novel test involving competition to win a reward as the motive for tracking other players' beliefs (the ‘Dot‐Midge task’). Ninety‐six children, including 23 with autism (mean age: 10.36 years), 50 typically developing 4‐year‐olds (mean age: 4.40) and 23 typically developing 3‐year‐olds (mean age: 3.59) took a standard ‘Sally‐Ann’ false belief test, the Dot‐Midge task (which was closely matched to the Sally‐Ann task procedure) and a norm‐referenced verbal ability test. Results revealed that, of the children with autism, 74% passed the Dot‐Midge task, yet only 13% passed the standard Sally‐Ann procedure. A similar pattern of performance was observed in the older, but not the younger, typically developing control groups. This finding demonstrates that many children with autism who fail motivationally barren standard false belief tests can spontaneously use ToM to track their social partners’ beliefs in the context of a competitive game.
The interplay between executive control and motor functioning in Williams syndrome
Authors: Hocking Darren R. , Thomas Daniel , Menant Jasmine C. , Porter Melanie A. , Smith Stuart , Lord Stephen R. , Cornish Kim M.
Published: March 2013

Previous studies suggest that individuals with Williams syndrome (WS), a rare genetically based neurodevelopmental disorder, show specific weaknesses in visual attention and response inhibition within the visuospatial domain. Here we examine the extent to which impairments in attentional control extend to the visuomotor domain using a well‐validated measure of choice stepping reaction time (CSRT) in individuals with WS. We examined the interaction between executive control and visually guided stepping using a verbal fluency dual‐task or Go/NoGo paradigm during CSRT performance. Relationships between dual‐task and inhibitory stepping and behavioural inattention and hyperactivity were also examined. Our results showed clear dual‐task costs in stepping response times when performing a concurrent cognitive task in the WS group when compared to spatial and verbal ability matched typically developing controls. Although no group differences in stepping accuracy were observed between the WS and typically developing control groups, the WS group showed progressive slowing and more variable response times across the duration of the Go/NoGo task. These results suggest dysfunction in circuits involved in top‐down attentional control processes in WS. These findings provide novel evidence that core executive control deficits in WS extend to the visuomotor domain, and impact on ADHD‐related inattentive symptoms.
Early access to abstract representations in developing readers: evidence from masked priming
Authors: Perea Manuel , Mallouh Reem Abu , Carreiras Manuel
Published: March 2013

A commonly shared assumption in the field of visual‐word recognition is that retinotopic representations are rapidly converted into abstract representations. Here we examine the role of visual form vs. abstract representations during the early stages of word processing – as measured by masked priming – in young children (3rd and 6th Graders) and adult readers. To maximize the chances of detecting an effect of visual form, we employed a language with a very intricate orthography, Arabic. If visual form plays a role in the early stages of processing, greater benefit would be expected from related primes that have the same visual form (in terms of the ligation pattern between a word's letters) as the target word (e.g.– [ktz b–ktA b] – note that the three initial letters are connected in prime and target) than for those that do not (– [ktxb–ktA b]). Results showed that the magnitude of priming effect relative to an unrelated condition (e.g. –) was remarkably similar for both types of prime. Thus, despite the visual complexity of Arabic orthography, there is fast access to the abstract letter representations not only in adult readers by also in developing readers.
The role of migration and choice of denominator on the prevalence of cerebral palsy
Authors: Van Naarden Braun Kim , Maenner Matthew J , Christensen Deborah , Doernberg Nancy S , Durkin Maureen S , Kirby Russell S , Yeargin‐Allsopp Marshalyn
Published: March 2013

Aim

Differential migration and choice of denominator have been hypothesized to contribute to differences between period prevalence and birth prevalence of cerebral palsy (CP). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of migration and choice of denominator on the prevalence ofCP.

Method

Data from theMetropolitanAtlantaDevelopmentalDisabilitiesSurveillanceProgram and census and birth certificate files were used to calculate variousCPprevalence estimates for 2000.

Results

The overallCPperiod prevalence was 3.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.7–3.8) per 1000 8‐year‐olds and was similar for those born inAtlanta who resided there at age 8 years (3.3; 95%CI2.7–4.1) and those born outsideAtlanta who moved intoAtlanta by age 8 years (3.0; 95%CI2.3–3.9).CPprevalence in these two migration strata was similar by sex and race/ethnicity.CPbirth prevalence of 8‐year‐olds inAtlanta in 2000 was 2.0 (95%CI1.6–2.5) per 1000 live births in 1992.

Interpretation

The authors found no evidence to support the hypothesis that differential in‐migration explained higher period than birth prevalence ofCPinAtlanta. Comparability ofCPprevalence across geographic areas will be enhanced if future studies report both period and birth prevalence.
Lectin‐like oxidized low‐density lipoprotein receptor 1 pathways
Authors: Taye Ashraf , El‐Sheikh Azza A. K.
Published: March 2013

Background

The role of lectin‐like oxidized low‐density lipoprotein receptor (LOX)‐1 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of different diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, obesity, diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome. To date, several studies aimed at partially investigating the mechanistic role of LOX‐1 in these various pathologies. Still, so far, the precise signal transduction pathways involving LOX‐1 have not yet been elucidated.

Materials and Methods

The most recent data published by the authors as well as others concerning different pathways involving LOX‐1 are collected to formulate the presented updated review.

Results

One of the most prominent pathways highlighted in the present review is the relationship of LOX‐1 to NADPH oxidase that acts as a major source of harmful free radicals causing oxidative stress in blood vessels. Other pathways involve lipid and glucose metabolism‐mediated signal transduction.

Discussion

The modulatory role of LOX‐1 on nitric oxide and renin/angiotensin systems as well as on fibrosis, apoptosis and inflammatory pathways is discussed.

Conclusion

The current review revisits LOX‐1 and its related pathways, implicating LOX‐1 as a target for ameliorating various pathological conditions.
The Influence of Product Market Competition on Technological and Management Innovation: Firm‐Level Evidence from a Large‐Scale Survey
Authors: Hecker Achim , Ganter Alois
Published: March 2013

This study contributes to both a deeper understanding of the drivers of management innovation, and the overarching debate about the relationship between competition and a firm's inclination to innovate. It distinguishes technological innovation from various types of management innovation, and investigates how a firm's competitive environment influences these types of innovation. We use firm‐level evidence from the fourth wave of the German part of the Community Innovation Survey (CIS IV), comprising 2,789German firms, to empirically validate the discriminatory predictions we develop from the theoretical literature. Our results show significant differences in the determinants of technological and management innovation. They, therefore, underscore the need for a contingency perspective when studying the relationship between innovation and competition.
Management Innovation: Management as Fertile Ground for Innovation
Authors: Volberda Henk W. , Van Den Bosch Frans A.J. , Heij Cornelis V.
Published: March 2013

Innovation is considered to be the primary driving force of progress and prosperity. Consequently, much effort is put in developing new technological knowledge, new process technologies and new products. However, evidence from both SMEs and large firms shows that successful innovation is not just the result of technological innovation, but is also heavily dependent on what has been called ‘management innovation’. Management innovation consists of changing a firm's organizational form, practices and processes in a way that is new to the firm and/or industry, and results in leveraging the firm's technological knowledge base and its performance in terms of innovation, productivity and competitiveness. Recent research shows that management innovation explains a substantial degree of the variance of innovation performance of firms. More active stimulation of management innovation and its leverage of technological innovation will be crucial to improve the competitiveness of firms. However, only solid research can increase our understanding of what matters in various kinds of management innovations. Just as technological change requires systematic R&D, the development and diffusion of management innovations require systematic research on the crucial determinants of success. In this paper we will define management innovation, discuss the multidirectional causalities between technological and management innovation, and develop a framework that identifies common areas of research in terms of antecedents, process dimensions of management innovation, outcomes and contextual factors. Moreover, we will position the papers of this special issue in this framework and develop an agenda for future research into management innovation. We conclude this introductory paper by specifying the most important research priorities for further advancing the emerging field of management innovation.
Transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder in a 12‐year‐oldBelgianWarmblood gelding
Authors: Lisowski Z. M. , Mair T. S. , Fews D.
Published: March 2013

A 12‐year‐oldBelgianWarmblood gelding was examined for haematuria and dysuria of 24 h duration. Cystoscopy revealed an intraluminal multinodular soft tissue mass originating from the dorsal bladder neck. Histopathological examination of biopsies identified transitional cell carcinoma. The bladder mass was surgically debulked via a temporary perineal urethrotomy. The horse commenced treatment with oral piroxicam. Follow‐up examination 18 months post operatively revealed no evidence of tumour recurrence. Neoplasia of the equine bladder is uncommon and this case describes the successful short‐term outcome of treatment of a transitional cell carcinoma by surgical debulking and oral piroxicam.
Curcumin inhibits UVB‐induced matrix metalloproteinase‐1/3 expression by suppressing the MAPK‐p38/JNK pathways in human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Hwang Bo‐Mi , Noh Eun‐Mi , Kim Jong‐Suk , Kim Jeong‐Mi , You Yong‐Ouk , Hwang Jin‐Ki , Kwon Kang‐Beom , Lee Young‐Rae
Published: March 2013

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is a polyphenol derived from turmeric (Curcuma longa), which is commonly used as a spice. Recent studies have shown that curcumin has a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and antiangiogenic activities. However, the antiphotoageing effects of curcumin have yet to be characterized. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of curcumin on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐1 and MMP‐3 expression in human dermal fibroblast cells. Western blot analysis revealed that curcumin inhibited ultraviolet (UV) B‐induced MMP‐1 and MMP‐3 expression. Furthermore, curcumin significantly blocked UVB‐induced reactive oxygen species generation in fibroblasts. Curcumin treatment significantly blocked the UVB‐induced activation of nuclear factor (NF)‐κB and activator protein (AP)‐1. Additionally, curcumin strongly repressed the UVB‐induced phosphorylation of p38 and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase. Curcumin prevented UVB‐induced MMP expression through mitogen‐activated protein kinase/NF‐κB inhibition and AP‐1 activation. In conclusion, curcumin may be useful for preventing and treating skin photoageing.
Oxidized phosphatidylcholines in membrane‐level cellular signaling: from biophysics to physiology and molecular pathology
Authors: Volinsky Roman , Kinnunen Paavo K. J.
Published: March 2013

The oxidation of lipids has been shown to impact virtually all cellular processes. The paradigm has been that this involvement is due to interference with the functions of membrane‐associated proteins. It is only recently that methodological advances in molecular‐level detection and identification have begun to provide insights into oxidative lipid modification and its involvement in cell signaling as well as in major diseases and inflammation. Extensive evidence suggests a correlation between lipid peroxidation and degenerative neurological diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, as well as type 2 diabetes and cancer. Despite the obvious relevance of understanding the molecular basis of the above ailments, the exact modes of action of oxidized lipids have remained elusive. In this minireview, we summarize recent findings on the biophysical characteristics of biomembranes following oxidative derivatization of their lipids, and how these altered properties are involved in both physiological processes and major pathological conditions. Lipid‐bearing, oxidatively truncated and functionalized acyl chains are known to modify membrane bulk physical properties, such as thermal phase behavior, bilayer thickness, hydration and polarity profiles, as manifest in the altered structural dynamics of lipid bilayers, leading to augmented membrane permeability, fast lipid transbilayer diffusion (flip‐flop), loss of lipid asymmetry (scrambling) and phase segregation (the formation of ‘rafts’). These changes, together with the generated reactive lipid derivatives, can be further expected to interfere with lipid–protein interactions, influencing metabolic pathways, causing inflammation, the execution phase in apoptosis and initiating pathological processes.
Spatial relationship between climatologies and changes in global vegetation activity
Authors: de Jong Rogier , Schaepman Michael E. , Furrer Reinhard , de Bruin Sytze , Verburg Peter H.
Published: March 2013

Vegetation forms a main component of the terrestrial biosphere and plays a crucial role in land‐cover and climate‐related studies. Activity of vegetation systems is commonly quantified using remotely sensed vegetation indices (VI). Extensive reports on temporal trends over the past decades in time series of such indices can be found in literature. However, little remains known about the processes underlying these changes at large spatial scales. In this study, we aimed at quantifying the spatial relationship between changes in potential climatic growth constraints (i.e. temperature, precipitation and incident solar radiation) and changes in vegetation activity (1982–2008). We demonstrate an additive spatial model with 0.5° resolution, consisting of a regression component representing climate‐associated effects and a spatially correlated field representing the combined influence of other factors, including land‐use change. Little over 50% of the spatial variance could be attributed to changes in climatologies; conspicuously, many greening trends and browning hotspots in Argentina and Australia. The nonassociated model component may contain large‐scale human interventions, feedback mechanisms or natural effects, which were not captured by the climatologies. Browning hotspots in this component were especially found in subequatorial Africa. On the scale of land‐cover types, strongest relationships between climatologies and vegetation activity were found in forests, including indications for browning under warming conditions (analogous to the divergence issue discussed in dendroclimatology).
Rationale for physicians to propose do‐not‐resuscitate orders in elderly community‐acquired pneumonia cases
Authors: Oshitani Yohei , Nagai Hideaki , Matsui Hirotoshi
Published: March 2013

Aim

In many countries, do‐not‐resuscitate (DNR) orders were not legislated, partly because rationale for proposal of DNR orders have not been studied in elderly pneumonia patients with cognitive and physical disorders. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the factors influencing physicians' proposal for DNR orders and their validity as prognostic predictor, by comparing elderly pneumonia cases with and without DNR orders.

Methods

Medical records of community‐acquired pneumonia patients aged 65 years or older were retrospectively studied (n = 641). The patients were categorized into two groups; one with DNR orders within 72 h after admission and the other without it.

Results

DNR was decided in 183 patients (28.5%). The DNR group, containing more elderly patients with poorer performance status, showed higher rates of malnutrition, dementia, aspiration, very severe pneumonia, respiratory failure and mortality. The choice of antimicrobials was not affected by the presence of DNR orders. Mortality rate within 30 days was higher in the DNR group than in the non‐DNR group (33.9% vs 2.8%, P < 0.001), as well as total hospital mortality (56.8% vs 4.8%, P < 0.001). Multiple logistic analysis identified factors involved in the decision‐making of DNR orders; that is, aspiration, healthcare‐associated pneumonia, respiratory failure, intensive airspace consolidation, age 75 years and older, performance status 3 and 4, and serum albumin<2.5 g/dL were positive factors for DNR orders.

Conclusion

The present study showed factors involved in the physicians proposal of DNR orders, demonstrating that DNR was empirically chosen based on comprehensive judgment of several prognostic predictors and it, in itself, was a good prognostic predictor. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 54–61.
‘SURFACE IS AN ILLUSION BUT SO IS DEPTH’: THE NOVELS OF CHRISTIAN KRACHT
Authors: Finlay Frank
Published: March 2013

This detailed discussion of the entirety of Kracht's fictional œuvre is an effort to re‐position and reassess him both in the critical literature and in relation to longer‐term literary trends. With reference to Faserland, I identify the key fault lines in the often conflicting scholarly and critical reception of Kracht's work, most notably the consensus which has emerged that beneath his apparent preoccupation with ‘surface’ there is significant seriousness or ‘depth’ intended. I then discuss the novels 1979, Ich werde hier sein im Sonnenschein und Schatten and Imperium to identify their underlying thematic and aesthetic continuities in order to interrogate this mainstream view. In particular, I contend that for all their apparent engagement with historical, philosophical and socio‐cultural issues, such as national identity and the search for ‘Heimat’, highly ludic elements, including a heightened intertextuality and intermediality, run through all the texts. These serve Kracht's self‐conscious intent to alienate and entertain the reader in order to playfully insist on his novels’ status as artefacts, thereby deliberately debunking their seriousness. Kracht's dominant mode is humour, his style pastiche: a mark of individual distinction in an otherwise crowded literary landscape with its frequently ‘realistic’ focus on historical and contemporary concerns.

Dieser Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit dem umstrittenen Schriftsteller Christian Kracht und gilt als Versuch, vor dem Hintergrund der Forschungsliteratur sowie aktueller Trends sein gesamtes Romanwerk in der gegenwärtigen literarischen Landschaft der Bundesrepublik zu verorten. Ausgehend von der Rezeption des Debütromans Faserland (1995) wird auf einen inzwischen breiten kritischen Konsens hingewiesen, nach dem Krachts Werke trotz ihrer Beschäftigung mit der ‘Oberfläche’ sich durchaus ‘tiefsinningen’ Themen widmen. Anhand einer Untersuchung von den Romanen 1979, Ich werde hier sein im Sonnenschein und Schatten und Imperium wird diese Position revidiert. Die ästhetischen und thematischen Konstanten im Werk werden hervorgehoben, um zu behaupten, dass den Romanen Krachts eine durchaus spielerische Dimension innewohnt, die den konstatierten ethischen Ernst mit Absicht – und mit Humor – unterminiert. Krachts Duktus ist Pastiche: sein besonderer Beitrag zur Vielfalt der neuen erzählerischen Literatur seit der Wende, deren Haupttendenz auf einer eher ‘realistischen’ Beschäftigung mit der deutschen Geschichte und Gegenwart liegt.
“Beyond Spain: Inquisition History in a Global Context”
Authors: Vose Robin
Published: March 2013

Recent developments in Italian, Portuguese and colonial inquisition histories around the globe have greatly enhanced our knowledge both of these persecuting bodies’ own institutional nature and of the varied sorts of human experience they sought to discipline. Social historians continue to find evidence for a wide range of premodern mentalities and lifeways in inquisitorial and related trial documents, not only in Europe but among indigenous and subaltern peoples in colonial settings as well. At the same time, studies of inquisitorial personnel, policies and organizational structures are contributing to broader historiographies of religion and politics in the late medieval and early modern periods. The future of inquisition history now requires increased collaboration and sharing of research across traditional divides of region, confession, and specialization.
Uruguay, Gateway to Nineteenth‐Century Cultural History of the Río de la Plata
Authors: Acree William
Published: March 2013

Argentina occupies a prominent place in Latin American historiography. Latin Americanists as well as historians of other world regions are less familiar, though, with the intensity of cultural, political, and economic flows that defined the broader region of the Río de la Plata, comprising today’s Uruguay and Argentina specifically, as well as Paraguay and southern Brazil more generally. Such exchanges of goods, ideas, and people were especially true of the late colonial period and the nineteenth century. Yet in this equation studies of Uruguay have remained on the margins in historical scholarship. This essay focuses on three core areas of research in the recent historiography of Uruguay as a gateway to nineteenth‐century cultural history of the Río de la Plata region. These areas are: (1) the African diaspora and blackness; (2) political culture and cultural history; and (3) a revitalized political history that draws from intellectual history and new energy surrounding the bicentennials of independence throughout Latin America. Knowledge of the historical forces shaping nineteenth‐century Uruguay not only contributes to a more complete understanding of the region’s cultural history; it also allows for the development of a historical perspective that is much more in tune with the historical experience of the region’s inhabitants throughout the long nineteenth century. Moreover, students and scholars of Argentina will note some parallels in research problems, though seeing them through the Uruguay prism can yield alternative approaches and point to previously unknown or under‐utilized source bases.