bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural correlates of arousal‐induced circadian clock resetting: hypocretin/orexin and the intergeniculate leaflet
Authors: Webb Ian C. , Patton Danica F. , Hamson Dwayne K. , Mistlberger Ralph E.
Published: February 2008

In Syrian hamsters, some procedures for stimulating behavioural arousal (e.g. running in a novel wheel and sleep deprivation by gentle handling with minimal activity) markedly phase‐advance circadian rhythms when applied during the middle of the daily rest period, while other arousal procedures do not (e.g. physical restraint, caffeine and modafinil). The neural basis for this differential effect of arousal procedures on clock resetting is unknown. We used c‐fos expression as a marker for neuronal activation to determine whether these arousal procedures differentially activate two nonphotic inputs to the circadian system, the thalamic intergeniculate leaflet (IGL; a proposed nonphotic gateway to the circadian clock) and the hypothalamic hypocretin system (which depolarizes arousal‐related cell groups throughout the brain and innervates both the IGL and the peri‐suprachiasmatic nucleus region). c‐FOS in hypocretin‐1‐immunoreactive neurons, in hypothalamic nonhypocretin neurons and in the IGL was significantly increased by novel wheel running, gentle handling and physical restraint, but only weakly by systemic injections of modafinil (300 mg/kg) or caffeine (75 mg/kg), at doses that are strongly alerting. Spatial analysis revealed few regional differences in the percentage of cells double‐labelled for hypocretin‐1 and c‐FOS following each treatment. These results suggest that activation of hypocretin neurons (as in the restraint condition) is not sufficient to induce phase shifts, and that gating of arousal effects on circadian clock phase may be downstream from the hypocretin system and from IGL neurons activated by these procedures.
Plant functional traits and soil carbon sequestration in contrasting biomes
Authors: De Deyn Gerlinde B. , Cornelissen Johannes H. C. , Bardgett Richard D.
Published: February 2008

Plant functional traits control a variety of terrestrial ecosystem processes, including soil carbon storage which is a key component of the global carbon cycle. Plant traits regulate net soil carbon storage by controlling carbon assimilation, its transfer and storage in belowground biomass, and its release from soil through respiration, fire and leaching. However, our mechanistic understanding of these processes is incomplete. Here, we present a mechanistic framework, based on the plant traits that drive soil carbon inputs and outputs, for understanding how alteration of vegetation composition will affect soil carbon sequestration under global changes. First, we show direct and indirect plant trait effects on soil carbon input and output through autotrophs and heterotrophs, and through modification of abiotic conditions, which need to be considered to determine the local carbon sequestration potential. Second, we explore how the composition of key plant traits and soil biota related to carbon input, release and storage prevail in different biomes across the globe, and address the biome‐specific mechanisms by which plant trait composition may impact on soil carbon sequestration. We propose that a trait‐based approach will help to develop strategies to preserve and promote carbon sequestration.
Metabolism‐dependent taxis towards (methyl)phenols is coupled through the most abundant of three polar localized Aer‐like proteins of Pseudomonas putida
Authors: Sarand Inga , Österberg Sofia , Holmqvist Sofie , Holmfeldt Per , Skärfstad Eleonore , Parales Rebecca E. , Shingler Victoria
Published: February 2008

Comparatively little is known about directed motility of environmental bacteria to common aromatic pollutants. Here, by expressing different parts of a (methyl)phenol‐degradative pathway and the use of specific mutants, we show that taxis of Pseudomonas putida towards (methyl)phenols is dictated by its ability to catabolize the aromatic compound. Thus, in contrast to previously described chemoreceptor‐mediated chemotaxis mechanisms towards benzoate, naphthalene and toluene, taxis in response to (methyl)phenols is mediated by metabolism‐dependent behaviour. Here we show that P. putida differentially expresses three Aer‐like receptors that are all polar‐localized through interactions with CheA, and that inactivation of the most abundant Aer2 protein significantly decreases taxis towards phenolics. In addition, the participation of a sensory signal transduction protein composed of a PAS, a GGDEF and an EAL domain in motility towards these compounds is demonstrated. The results are discussed in the context of the versatility of metabolism‐dependent coupling and the necessity for P. putida to integrate diverse metabolic signals from its native heterogeneous soil and water environments.
Vitamin D improves endothelial function in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and low vitamin D levels
Authors: Sugden J. A. , Davies J. I. , Witham M. D. , Morris A. D. , Struthers A. D.
Published: February 2008

Aims  To test whether a single large dose of vitamin D2 can improve endothelial function in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and low serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels.

Methods  Double‐blind, parallel group, placebo‐controlled randomized trial. A single dose of 100 000 IU vitamin D2 or placebo was administered to patients with Type 2 diabetes over the winter, when levels of circulating 25‐hydroxyvitamin D were likely to be lowest. Patients were enrolled if their baseline 25‐hydroxyvitamin D level was < 50 nmol/l. Endothelial function and blood pressure were measured and fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and 8 weeks after administration of vitamin D.

Results  Forty‐nine per cent of subjects screened had 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels < 50 nmol/l. Thirty‐four subjects completed the study, with a mean age of 64 years and a baseline 25‐hydroxyvitamin D level of 38.3 nmol/l. Vitamin D supplementation increased 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels by 15.3 nmol/l relative to placebo and significantly improved flow mediated vasodilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery by 2.3%. The improvement in FMD remained significant after adjusting for changes in blood pressure. Vitamin D supplementation significantly decreased systolic blood pressure by 14 mmHg compared with placebo; this did not correlate with change in FMD.

Conclusions  Vitamin D insufficiency is common in patients with Type 2 diabetes during winter in Scotland. A single large dose of oral vitamin D2 improves endothelial function in patients with Type 2 diabetes and vitamin D insufficiency.
Prevalence and clinical characteristics of maternally inherited diabetes and deafness caused by the mt3243A > G mutation in young adult diabetic subjects in Sri Lanka
Authors: Katulanda P. , Groves C. J. , Barrett A. , Sheriff R. , Matthews D. R. , McCarthy M. I. , Gloyn A. L.
Published: February 2008

Aims  The maternally inherited mt3243A > G mutation is associated with a variable clinical phenotype including diabetes and deafness (MIDD). We aimed to determine the prevalence and clinical characteristics of MIDD in a large South Asian cohort of young adult‐onset diabetic patients from Sri Lanka.

Methods  DNA was available from 994 subjects (age of diagnosis 16–40 years, age at recruitment ≤ 45 years). Mutation screening was performed using a QRT‐PCR method on an ABI 7900HT system using sequence‐specific probes. Samples with heteroplasmy ≥ 5.0% were considered positive.

Results  Nine (four males) mutation‐positive subjects were identified (prevalence 0.9%). They were diagnosed at a younger age (25.9 ± 4.8 years vs. 31.9 ± 5.6 years, P = 0.002) and were lean (body mass index [BMI] 18.7 ± 2.7 kg/m2 vs. 24.7 ± 4.0 kg/m2, P < 0.001) compared to NMCs. One mutation‐positive subject (11.1%) had metabolic syndrome, compared to 633 (64.3%) of NMCs. Insulin therapy within 6 months of diagnosis was used in four (44.0%) carriers compared to 6.9% of NMCs (P = 0.002). Combined screening criteria of any two of maternal history of diabetes, personal history of hearing impairment and family history of hearing impairment only identified five (55%) of the carriers, with a positive predictive value of 7.4%.

Conclusions  The prevalence of mt3243A > G mutation among young adult‐onset diabetic subjects from Sri Lanka was 0.9%. Our study demonstrates that a maternal family history of diabetes and either a personal and/or family history of deafness only distinguish half of patients with MIDD from Sri Lankan subjects with young‐onset diabetes.
RNA interference (RNAi)‐induced suppression of nicotine demethylase activity reduces levels of a key carcinogen in cured tobacco leaves
Authors: Lewis Ramsey S. , Jack Anne M. , Morris Jerry W. , Robert Vincent J. M. , Gavilano Lily B. , Siminszky Balazs , Bush Lowell P. , Hayes Alec J. , Dewey Ralph E.
Published: February 2008

Technologies for reducing the levels of tobacco product constituents that may contribute to unwanted health effects are desired. Target compounds include tobacco‐specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), a class of compounds generated through the nitrosation of pyridine alkaloids during the curing and processing of tobacco. Studies have reported the TSNA N′‐nitrosonornicotine (NNN) to be carcinogenic in laboratory animals. NNN is formed via the nitrosation of nornicotine, a secondary alkaloid produced through enzymatic N‐demethylation of nicotine. Strategies to lower nornicotine levels in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) could lead to a corresponding decrease in NNN accumulation in cured leaves. The major nicotine demethylase gene of tobacco has recently been isolated. In this study, a large‐scale field trial was conducted to evaluate transgenic lines of burley tobacco carrying an RNA interference (RNAi) construct designed to inhibit the expression of this gene. Selected transgenic lines exhibited a six‐fold decrease in nornicotine content relative to untransformed controls. Analysis of cured leaves revealed a commensurate decrease in NNN and total TSNAs. The inhibition of nicotine demethylase activity is an effective means of decreasing significantly the level of a key defined animal carcinogen present in tobacco products.
Power, Identity and the Production of Buffer Villages in “the Second Most Remote Region in all of Mexico”
Authors: Walker David M , Walker Margath A
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  This paper draws on an empirical example in Oaxaca, Mexico to understand how space is (re)constructed through material and metaphorical practice. Our research on the ways in which the Zoque‐speaking Indians of Chimalapas—a forest region of the state—have sought to reframe space through the formation of buffer villages to prevent encroachment on communally held land is motivated by two broad theoretical concerns. The first is to draw attention to a region of Mexico not widely addressed in geographic literature where there exist very active indigenous struggles. A second motivation relates to the continued decoupling of binaries, in particular the construct of “powerful vs powerless”. We argue that the strategies of the marginalized are enacted through the reconfiguration of spatiality and power relations predicated in part on the differentially situated subjects within a social group. Our concern is to hint at the multiplicities involved in subordination tangibly and materially within a population that often is categorized unproblematically and scripted as ‘powerless’. In examining the intricacies of the spatial strategies employed by members of the Zoque minority we show how unities and stabilities are produced against a backdrop of conflict.
“All Gone Now”: The Material, Discursive and Political Erasure of Bank and Building Society Branches in Britain
Authors: French Shaun , Leyshon Andrew , Signoretta Paola
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  This paper examines an apparent anomaly that lies at the heart of processes of financial exclusion within Britain. Given that the branch networks of banks and building societies have shrunk in size by about one‐third since 1989, a period during which the Government has launched a wide‐ranging set of policies to tackle financial exclusion, why is it that the issue of branch closure has been neutralised as a political issue? After providing evidence to show the extent of branch closure in Britain and illustrating the ways in which geographical research in particular has drawn attention to the nature of this problem, we look at the way the issue of physical access to financial services has been discursively and politically marginalised. We undertake a detailed history of public policy in the area, and the ways in which research funded by industry bodies and Government departments has been used and framed to build a pro‐market, neoliberal policy programme that constructs branch closures as natural and inevitable.
United by a Common Language? Trade Union Responses in the UK and India to Call Centre Offshoring
Authors: Taylor Phil , Bain Peter
Published: February 2008

Abstract: The offshoring of business processes from the global North to low‐cost countries of the global South has grown spectacularly in the current decade. Self‐evidently, transnational relocation presents considerable challenges for organised labour since it suggests both a ‘race to the bottom’ in respect of pay, conditions and workers' rights and wholesale redundancies in the developed economies. This paper examines the specific case of the migration of call centres from the UK to India and trade union responses in both geographies. Informed by theoretical developments, insights and evidence from diverse disciplines and literatures, the authors concur particularly with Herod's conviction that union strategies to counter TNCs should not be counterposed between ‘organising globally’ and ‘organising locally’and that ‘organising at both scales simultaneously may best serve their goals’. Following reflection upon the nature of the call centre and consideration of important contradictions in the offshoring process, we present evidence of UK union responses ranging from the nationalistic, even xenophobic, to the internationalsist, and conclude that membership mobilisation on a principled basis has been key to the limited successes unions have achieved. The paper also evaluates developments in India and the emergence of an embryonic organisation UNITES which is attempting to organise its call centre and business process outsourcing (BPO) workforce. We conclude by considering the gap between the potential and the reality of effective internationally co‐ordinated union activity.
Neoliberalism and the Economic Utility of Immigration: Media Perspectives of Germany's Immigration Law
Authors: Bauder Harald
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Germany's new immigration law, which took effect in 2005, was hotly debated over a period of four years. This paper follows the debate on the law through the newsprint media, examines the representation of immigration as an economic utility, and investigates the contents of this economic‐utility perspective of immigration in light of neoliberal restructuring in Germany. The analysis focuses on 609 articles sampled from five major German daily newspapers published between July 2001 and August 2005. A discourse analysis suggests that the newsprint media represented immigration on the one hand as an economic necessity to replenish the labor market and ensure the international competitiveness of key industrial sectors. On the other hand, immigration was depicted as an economic liability that raises unemployment rates and burdens the public welfare system. Although the media emphasized the economic necessity of immigration, the final law does not permit any significant immigration of labor. The paper resolves this contradiction by situating media discourse in a wider context of neoliberal reforms and European Union expansion.
Innovation management techniques and tools: a review from theory and practice
Authors: Hidalgo Antonio , Albors Jose
Published: February 2008

Knowledge is considered to be an economic driver in today's economy. It has become a commodity, a resource that can be packed and transferred. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of the scope, trends and major actors (firms, organizations, government, consultants, academia, etc.) in the development and use of methods to manage innovation in a knowledge‐driven economy. The paper identifies the main innovation management techniques (IMTs) aiming at the improvement of firm competitiveness by means of knowledge management. It will specifically focus on those IMTs for which knowledge is a relevant part of the innovation process. The research study, based on a survey at the European level, concludes that a knowledge‐driven economy affects the innovation process and approach. The traditional idea that innovation is based on research (technology‐push theory) and interaction between firms and other actors has been replaced by the current social network theory of innovation, where knowledge plays a crucial role in fostering innovation. Simultaneously, organizations in both public and private sectors have launched initiatives to develop methodologies and tools to support business innovation management. Higher education establishments, business schools and consulting companies are developing innovative and adequate methodologies and tools, while public authorities are designing and setting up education and training schemes aimed at disseminating best practices among all kinds of businesses.
Building dynamic capabilities for innovation: an exploratory study of key management practices
Authors: Lee Hyunsuk , Kelley Donna
Published: February 2008

While both the innovation literature and the dynamic capabilities perspective identify loose processes as most appropriate for high uncertainty domains, this produces little reassurance to organizations seeking to improve their ability to commercialize innovations. This paper takes the position that practices for managing innovation project leaders are a key component of an organization's dynamic capabilities for innovation. Our comparative case analysis of divisions of two established Korean organizations suggests that managerial practices include the deployment of entrepreneurial resources having particular skills, characteristics, and motivation. In addition, we identify the relational and decision support roles of managers.
Using patent information for designing new product and technology: keyword based technology roadmapping
Authors: Lee Sungjoo , Lee Seonghoon , Seol Hyeonju , Park Yongtae
Published: February 2008

With the rapid change in markets and technologies, it is becoming essential for firms to develop new products constantly. This can most successfully be achieved by using technology roadmaps (TRMs), which are effective tools for connecting product and technology planning. However, TRMs generally tend to overstate the qualitative and expert‐dependent knowledge rather than incorporating quantitative and objective information. This paper proposes a new approach where patent data are used in a quantitative methodology to support reliable decision‐making in roadmapping processes. In this study, text‐mining techniques were utilized to extract the relevant information on which portfolio, co‐word, and network analyses were carried out. The results were three types of product‐technology maps that can be applied to specific roadmapping steps. The suggested approach is expected to yield useful information about roadmapping, and help improve the overall effectiveness and quality of the technique.
Craft guilds in the pre‐modern economy: a discussion
Authors: EPSTEIN S. R.
Published: February 2008

This article challenges the view, voiced especially by S. Ogilvie, that the ‘revisionist’ interpretation of the history of craft guilds is wide of the mark. The paper suggests that Ogilvie oversimplifies the revisionist position; ignores significant new work on European crafts; as a result underestimates the role of the guilds in England and the Low Countries; and incorrectly presents her own case study of the Württemberg worsted industry as typical of European industry in general. Rather than a return to what amounts to a generalized eighteenth‐century debunking of the guilds, the paper pleads for more quantitative and regionally specified investigations of the economic contributions of craft guilds.
The two sterling crises of 1964 and the decision not to devalue1
Authors: NEWTON SCOTT
Published: February 2008

Conventional wisdom is critical of the newly elected Labour government's reaction to external financial difficulties in the autumn of 1964. Anxious about its political position, it avoided the necessary measures, involving stringent deflation and possibly devaluation. This article seeks to revise the traditional view by re‐examining the response to what were actually two sterling crises. The first was handled efficiently. The second was provoked by speculation stemming from market expectations of devaluation. The decision not to devalue but seek external support was justifiable, given changes within the international economy which were to create problems for many postwar nation states.
Pineal gland cyst evaluated by transcranial sonography
Authors: Budisic M. , Bosnjak J. , Lovrencic‐Huzjan A. , Mikula I. , Bedek D. , Demarin V.
Published: February 2008

Transcranial sonography (TCS) has never been used in the evaluation of morphology of pineal gland. The aim of the study was to assess the possibility of TCS to distinguish normal from cystic pineal gland and to correlate its size with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the first examination and during follow‐up. Sixty patients with previously made MRI of the brain were evaluated by two independent observers using TCS, blinded to the results of the MRI. Inappropriate bone window limited TCS examination in seven patients. All 14 pineal gland cysts (PGC) seen on MRI were detected by both observers using TCS. Control group consisted of 39 healthy examinees. No statistically significant difference has been found between: PGC size measured by first and second observer by TCS (P = 0.425), PGC size measured by TCS and MRI (first observer, P = 0.353; second observer, P = 0.425), size of the pineal gland measured by TCS and MRI in control group (first observer, P = 0.497; second observer, P = 0.370) or interobserver variability in control group (P = 0.373). The MRI and TCS follow–up of ten patients after six months did not show any difference in size of PGC. TCS can be used as a method in detection, measurement and follow‐up of PGC.
Bilateral cerebral hemispheric infarction associated with sildenafil citrate (Viagra®) use
Authors: Kim K.‐K. , Kim D. G. , Ku Y. H. , Lee Y. J. , Kim W.‐C. , Kim O. J. , Kim H. S.
Published: February 2008

Sildenafil citrate (Viagra®) is one of the frequently prescribed drugs for men with erectile dysfunction. We describe a 52‐year‐old man with bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory infarction after sildenafil use. He ingested 100 mg of sildenafil and about 1 h later, he complained of chest discomfort, palpitation and dizziness followed by mental obtundation, global aphasia and left hemiparesis. Brain magnetic resonance imaging documented acute bilateral hemispheric infarction, and cerebral angiography showed occluded bilateral MCA. Despite significant bilateral MCA stenosis and cerebral infarction, systemic hypotension persisted for a day. We presume that cerebral infarction was caused by cardioembolism with sildenafil use.
Glutathione‐S‐transferase P1 polymorphism and risk for essential tremor
Authors: Martínez C. , García‐Martín E. , Alonso‐Navarro H. , Benito‐León J. , Puertas I. , Rubio L. , López‐Alburquerque T. , Agúndez J. A. G. , Jiménez‐Jiménez F. J.
Published: February 2008

Glutathione‐S‐transferases (GST) are polymorphic enzymes that participate in the metabolism of carcinogens (including those of tobacco smoke) and pesticides. We investigated the possible association between the GSTP1 genotype and allelic variants and the risk for essential tremor (ET). We studied the frequency of the GSTP1 genotypes and allelic variants in 200 patients with ET and 220 healthy controls using PCR‐RFLP method. The association between GSTP1 polymorphism and the exposure to some environmental factors (agricultural work, pesticides, well‐water and smoking‐cigarettes habit) was also studied in a subgroup of patients. The frequencies of the GSTP1 genotypes and allelic variants did not differ significantly between patients with ET and controls or between patients with ET exposed to agricultural work, well water and cigarette smoking versus those non‐exposed. Mutated allelic variants were significantly more frequent in patients with ET exposed to pesticides versus those non‐exposed. GSTP1 polymorphism was unrelated with the age of onset of ET. GSTP1 genotypes and allelic variants were not related with the risk for ET with the possible exception of those patients exposed to pesticides.
The response to IV rt‐PA in very old stroke patients
Authors: Gómez‐Choco M. , Obach V. , Urra X. , Amaro S. , Cervera Á. , Vargas M. , Chamorro Á.
Published: February 2008

The use of rtPA in stroke patients aged >80 years remains controversial and it is debated whether there are sex‐based differences in the response to rtPA. We assessed the clinical value of thrombolytic therapy in patients aged >80 years (elderly group) in comparison with a non‐elderly group, and evaluated the existence of sex differences in the response to rtPA. All consecutive patients (n = 157) treated with rtPA were prospectively assessed since July 2001, including 49 elderly patients who fulfilled the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) criteria. Changes of the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at 1 h, 24 h, and 7 days after rtPA administration, favourable outcome at day 90 [(modified Rankin Scale) mRS 0–1, or 2 if mRS = 2 before the stroke], symptomatic bleedings, and death rates were compared between elderly and non‐elderly patients. Using logistic regression, baseline NIHSS score [odds ratio (OR) 0.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41–0.84] was an independent predictor of favourable outcome, but not sex (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.33–1.56), or age >80 years (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.32–1.70). The rates of clinical improvement, mortality, or symptomatic CNS bleeding were also unrelated to age and sex. In conclusion, the response to IV rtPA is not impaired in elderly stroke patients and male and female are equally responsive.
Bimodal administration of entacapone in Parkinson’s disease patients improves motor control
Authors: Bet L. , Bareggi S. R. , Pacei F. , Bondiolotti G. , Meola G. , Schapira A. H. V
Published: February 2008

Catechol‐O‐methyl transferase (COMT) inhibition by entacapone enhances levodopa absorption and reduces ‘off’ time in Parkinson’s disease (PD). We hypothesized that the administration of entacapone in a bimodal fashion (two doses 1 h apart) would enhance levodopa absorption and improve the motor symptoms of PD. Patients with PD (n = 17) were given immediate (IR)‐ or controlled (CR)‐release levodopa each with either one or two doses of entacapone. Bimodal entacapone produced a significant increase in IR and CR levodopa half‐life, ‘area under the curve’ (AUC), and Cmax with levodopa CR. For both IR and CR levodopa, bimodal entacapone resulted in a significant improvement in the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale part III (motor). Bimodal entacapone increased COMT inhibition, improved the pharmacokinetics of levodopa and improved motor scores for 6 to 8 h. Bimodal use of entacapone may be useful in selected patients to improve motor control and implies that controlled release COMT inhibition would be beneficial in PD patients.
In vivo detection of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in the brain in a case of encephalitis: evidence for HCV neuroinvasion
Authors: Seifert F. , Struffert T. , Hildebrandt M. , Blümcke I. , Brück W. , Staykov D. , Huttner H. B. , Hilz M.‐J. , Schwab S. , Bardutzky J.
Published: February 2008

We report here a 27‐year‐old woman who presented with encephalitis of unknown origin. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed leukoencephalopathy, cerebrospinal fluid showed signs of inflammation. Serum and brain biopsy tissue was tested positive for hepatitis C virus (HCV). Neuropathological investigation supported the hypothesis of viral encephalitis. C3, C4 and cryoglobulins as well as cerebral MR‐angiography were normal. Neurological complications of HCV infection other than hepatic encephalopathy are generally attributed to parainfectious phenomena. This is the first case of HCV‐RNA detection in vivo in human brain in literature and it raises the possibility that HCV is able to induce encephalitis caused by neurotrophism. This is supported by the fact that there is a growing body of literature on HCV‐induced cerebral dysfunction and laboratory findings indicating HCV neuroinvasion.
Does motor subtype influence neurocognitive performance in Parkinson’s disease without dementia?
Authors: Lyros E. , Messinis L. , Papathanasopoulos P.
Published: February 2008

The postural instability and gait difficulty (PIGD) motor subtype has been shown to represent a risk factor for development of dementia in Parkinson’s disease. Whether this relationship extends to a more subtle cognitive dysfunction in patients is less clear. Therefore, we administered a battery of selected neuropsychological tests to two groups of non‐demented patients with mild to moderate disease classified either as PIGD or as non‐PIGD subtype and to a group of healthy controls. Groups were matched on potential confounders of neuropsychological performance. No significant differences were revealed between the two groups of patients in the performance of any of the administered neuropsychological tests. However, relative to controls there was a tendency towards a differential pattern of cognitive dysfunction. The PIGD group had slower performance in a test of psychomotor speed and cognitive flexibility, whilst the non‐PIGD group performed worse in measures of verbal learning and visuo‐spatial perception. In conclusion, the PIGD subtype was not associated with more severe cognitive deficits and may to a certain extent share common mechanisms of cognitive dysfunction with non‐PIGD subtypes. Diverse pathological processes however may develop to account for unequal rates of dementia amongst different motor subtypes.
Should levodopa dose be reduced when switched to stalevo?
Authors: Linazasoro G. , Kulisevsky J. , Hernández B. ,   on behalf of the Spanish Stalevo Study Group
Published: February 2008

The addition of entacapone to levodopa‐carbidopa (LC) or the switch from LC to a tablet containing levodopa–carbidopa–entacapone (LCE) improves the wearing‐off phenomenon, increases the ‘on’ time and decreases the ‘off’ time, but the appearance or exacerbation of dyskinesias is the more frequent side‐effect. Thus, a reduction of the total levodopa dosage would be recommended. However, this could result in a lack of efficacy against the wearing‐off. We report on the results of a clinical trial conducted to determine the best way in terms of efficacy, tolerability and safety of switching from LC to LCE in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and end of dose wearing‐off. 39 patients with PD and wearing‐off without or with mild dyskinesias were randomly assigned to either a group receiving the same LC dosage or to a group in which the total LC amount was reduced by 15–25%. Four weeks after the change, both groups showed an increase in daily ‘on’ time and a reduction in the daily time spent in ‘off’. Two patients in each group experienced an increase in basal dyskinesias. No differences in clinical assessment between groups were found. Tolerance was excellent. This study suggests that switching from LC to LCE in patients with mild‐to‐moderate wearing‐off can be done safely with or without reducing the total LD amount, but in the clinical setting it would be more practical to keep the dosage of LC unchanged unless severe dyskinesias are present.
How long can patients with mild or moderate Alzheimer’s dementia maintain both the cognition and the therapy of cholinesterase inhibitors: a national population‐based study
Authors: Sun Y. , Lai M.‐S. , Lu C.‐J. , Chen R.‐C.
Published: February 2008

The aims of this study were to evaluate the duration of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEI) utilization as well as the patients’ cognition maintenance. This study was using panel data from the Bureau of National Health Insurance (BNHI) of Taiwan from 2001 to 2004. Patients with mild or moderate AD were prescribed AChEI (donepezil, rivastigmine, or galantamine). By the regulation of BNHI, if the score of Mini‐Mental Status Examination worsened by more than two points or clinical dementia rating (CDR) worsened by one or more grades in the follow‐up every half year, the AChEI treatment would be terminated. Kaplan–Meier product‐limit method was used to estimate duration of drug utilization. Regression model was performed to analyse the factors affecting the discontinuation of AChEI treatment. Our results showed female are more and younger than male in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s dementia. The mean duration of use of AChEI was 432 days. Only 9.6% of patients maintained stable cognition tests results with continued drug refill for more than 3 years. Discontinuation rate in older patients (age ≥76 years) was higher than those in younger age (P = 0.0009). The average duration for AChEI therapy is around 14 months. The elderly are at high risk for treatment discontinuation.
Pericranial injection of botulinum toxin type A (Dysport®) for tension‐type headache – A multicentre, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Straube A. , Empl M. , Ceballos‐Baumann A. , Tölle T. , Stefenelli U. , Pfaffenrath V. ,   on behalf of the Dysport Tension‐Type Headache Study Group
Published: February 2008

Increasingly, botulinum type A toxin is used to influence pathologically increased muscle activity in conditions such as dystonia and spasticity. Studies have also assessed its efficacy in tension‐type headache, where muscle tenderness may be increased. We undertook a prospective, multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Patients received injections of Dysport® (total dose of 420 or 210 units) or saline placebo in 18 sites on the head and neck. Of 125 patients treated, 118 were included in the intention‐to‐treat dataset. No significant differences between each verum group and placebo were seen for the primary efficacy parameter – change in the number of headache‐free days at 4–8 weeks after injection compared with 4 weeks before injection. The groups receiving 420 or 210 units of Dysport experienced 2.60 and 2.87 more headache‐free days respectively, compared with 1.93 more headache‐free days for the placebo group (P = 0.66 versus 420 units; P = 0.52 versus 210 units). Treatment with 420 units of Dysport was associated with significant improvements compared with placebo for two secondary efficacy parameters: mean change in headache duration from baseline to weeks 8–12 (P < 0.05) and improved global physician and patient assessment scores (P < 0.05). Further studies should address the possible value of multiple injections with extended observation periods, dose optimization, and whether duration of headache history and number of previous treatments are predictors of patient response.
Steroid‐induced improvement of neurological signs in ataxia‐telangiectasia patients
Authors: Broccoletti T. , Del Giudice E. , Amorosi S. , Russo I. , Di Bonito M. , Imperati F. , Romano A. , Pignata C.
Published: February 2008

A recent clinical observation reported on a dramatic improvement of neurological symptoms following short‐term betamethasone administration in a child affected with ataxia‐teleangiectasia (A‐T). The aim of this study was to extend this observation to additional A‐T patients followed at a single Immunodeficiency Center. Six consecutive patients (three males; mean age 16.3 years, range 5–30 years) were enrolled into this monocentric before–after trial. A cycle of oral betamethasone at the dosage of 0.1 mg/kg/day was administered for 10 days. The neurological evaluation was performed through the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia. Overall, five of the six patients exhibited a clear amelioration of the neurological performances. Only in two patients, a slight amelioration persisted 7 days after the therapy withdrawal, whilst in the other patients the score reached approximately the pre‐treatment value at the end of the therapy. Twenty‐eight of the 46 evaluated neurological items (60%) improved during therapy. The speech disturbance, finger chase and nose–finger test showed the more significant improvement. The clinical amelioration was inversely correlated with the level of cerebellum atrophy, as revealed by the magnetic resonance. Our data indicate that neurological signs in A‐T are susceptible of beneficial pharmacological intervention even years after the disease onset.
Evaluation of response of multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse to oral high‐dose methylprednisolone: usefulness of MS functional composite and Expanded Disability Status Scale
Authors: Pascual A. M. , Boscá I. , Coret F. , Escutia M. , Bernat A. , Casanova B.
Published: February 2008

To compare the usefulness of multiple sclerosis functional composite (MSFC) to the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) in assessing functional changes related to relapse. A prospective 12‐week follow‐up study after relapse was conducted among 14 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients treated with oral high‐dose (1 g) methylprednisolone for 3 days. MSFC and the EDSS were assessed on day 0, before treatment and, 1, 4 and 12 weeks afterwards. In relapses, EDSS (2.5 ± 1.2 to 3.8 ± 1.0) and z‐score of the MSFC (0.15 ± 0.58 to −0.59 ± 0.70) worsened. After 1 week of treatment, the EDSS improved (3.3 ± 1.2; P = 0.002) while the MSFC did not change significantly. At week 4, EDSS improvement was maximal (2.8 ± 1.3; P = 0.001). At week 12, EDSS remained stable whereas z‐score continued improving (0.26 ± 0.74). z‐9peg‐hole‐test was the most sensitive subtest. There was correlation between baseline values of both scales (−0.620, P < 0.05) and between changes due to relapse (−0.535, P < 0.05). 78.5% of patients had improved at week 4 (35.7% at week 1). There were no serious adverse effects. MSFC and the EDSS were sensitive to changes due to relapses, although the dynamics for restoring baseline function were different. Our data support the usefulness of both scales in clinical trials, providing complementary information about outcome of MS patients with relapses.
A review of the theories of corporate social responsibility: Its evolutionary path and the road ahead
Authors: Lee Min‐Dong Paul
Published: February 2008

This study aims to trace the conceptual evolutionary path of theories on corporate social responsibility (CSR) and to reflect on the implications of the development. The retrospection has revealed that the trend has been a progressive rationalization of the concept with a particular focus on tighter coupling with organizations’ financial goals. Rationalization involves two broad shifts in the conceptualization of CSR. First, in terms of the level of analysis, researchers have moved from the discussion of the macro‐social effects of CSR to organizational‐level analysis of CSR's effect on profit. Next, in terms of theoretical orientation, researchers have moved from explicitly normative and ethics‐oriented arguments to implicitly normative and performance‐oriented managerial studies. Based on the retrospection, the limitations of the current state of CSR research that places excessive emphasis on the business case for CSR are outlined, and it is suggested that future research needs to refocus on basic research in order to develop conceptual tools and theoretical mechanisms that explain changing organizational behavior from a broader societal perspective.
A Wider Europe? The View from Russia, Belarus and Ukraine*
Authors: WHITE STEPHEN , KOROSTELEVA JULIA , MCALLISTER IAN
Published: February 2008

On the evidence of national surveys conducted between 2000 and 2006, there is a declining sense of European self‐identity in the three Slavic post‐Soviet republics of Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Attitudes towards the European Union and the possibility of membership are broadly supportive, but with a substantial proportion who find it difficult to express a view, and substantial proportions are poorly informed in comparison with the general public in EU member or prospective member countries. Those who are better informed are more likely to favour EU membership and vice versa. Generally, socioeconomic characteristics (except for age and region) are relatively poor predictors of support for EU membership as compared with attitudinal variables. But ‘Europeanness’ should not be seen as a given, and much will depend on whether EU member countries emphasize what is common to east and west or establish ‘new dividing lines’ in place of those of the cold war.
The Treaty Reform of the EU: Constitutional Agenda‐Setting, Intergovernmental Bargains and the Presidency's Crisis Management of Ratification Failure*
Authors: KÖNIG THOMAS , DAIMER STEPHANIE , FINKE DANIEL
Published: February 2008

This study empirically investigates the two options which were considered by the German presidency for finding a solution to the crisis of the EU's reform process. Our findings reveal that making concessions to the remaining eight ratification countries and renegotiating the text with all Member States were feasible solutions for reform.
The EU's Political Conditionality and Post‐Accession Tendencies: Comparisons from Slovakia and Latvia
Authors: PRIDHAM GEOFFREY
Published: February 2008

The EU's political conditionality during the 2004 enlargement process recorded significant progress but imperfect implementation. But what has happened since post‐Communist countries joined the EU three years ago now that the leverage of Brussels has ceased? This article develops an analytical approach to answer this question and applies it to the two cases of Slovakia and Latvia during the first three years of membership, showing some further progress with conditionality matters but also a rather mixed picture. Altogether, there is no common pattern whereby conditionalty loses momention and becomes unscrambled even though the drive behind enlargement has been the crucial force driving conditionality policy.
What do ‘Europeans’ Think? Analyses of the European Union's Current Crisis by European Elites*
Authors: ROSS GEORGE
Published: February 2008

The EU has been in ‘crisis’ at least since the 2005 referendums. This article presents different explanations for crisis held by high‐level EU insiders, based on in‐depth interviews with ‘Europeans’, people whose lives have been deeply invested in the EU through careers either committed to ‘building Europe’ or to observing Europe's building sites professionally. The results demonstrate a variety of causal stories that explain the present situation, the conviction that the EU is entering a new and very different era and pervasive sense of pessimism, all in the form of penetrating analyses.
Queso Chihuahua: manufacturing procedures, composition, protein profiles, and microbiology
Authors: TUNICK MICHAEL H , VAN HEKKEN DIANE L , MOLINA‐CORRAL F JAVIER , TOMASULA PEGGY M , CALL JEFFREY , LUCHANSKY JOHN , GARDEA ALFONSO A
Published: February 2008

A survey of fresh commercial Queso Chihuahua made from raw or pasteurized cow's milk was undertaken to determine the impact of cheesemaking parameters on composition, protein breakdown and microbial counts. Despite variations in the manufacturing procedure, the composition and casein breakdown of the cheeses fell within a comparatively tight range. Pathogens were not detected in any of the cheeses, but total aerobic plate counts exceeded the recommended limit for this variety. Differences in Mexican Queso Chihuahua manufacturing procedures did not substantially alter the final product, the quality of which could be improved by reduction of bacteria present.
Fresh cheese from camel milk coagulated with Camifloc
Authors: EL ZUBEIR IBTISAM E M , JABREEL SAMAH O
Published: February 2008

Camel milk was processed into cheese using Camifloc and calcium chloride. Two types of cheeses were produced from camel milk, using Camifloc (CF cheese) and CaCl2 in addition to Camifloc (CFCC cheese). The study revealed the usefulness of Camifloc in coagulation of camel milk. The time of coagulation was found to be about 2–3 h, and the yield of CFCC cheese was found to be higher than the CF cheese, while a shelf life of 4 days was obtained for both cheeses. Both cheeses showed nonsignificant variations in compositional content except for the percentages of protein and ash, which showed significant differences at P < 0.001 and P < 0.05. Sensory evaluation by taste panellists was conducted to determine the acceptability of cheeses during the storage periods. Differences were found between the CF cheese and the CFCC cheese in saltiness and overall acceptability, and higher mean scores were recorded for the CF cheese than the CFCC cheese. The study recommends the use of Camifloc in making cheese from camel milk; and if CaCl2 is added, it can improve the cheese yield. However, we suggest that the rate of salting should be reduced, and further drying and storage of the cheese should be done.
Microbiological and physicochemical characteristics and aminopeptidase activities during ripening of Serrano cheese
Authors: ROSA TIZIANO DALLA , WASSERMANN GERMAN ENRIQUE , DE SOUZA CLAUCIA FERNANDA VOLKEN , CARON DEISE , CARLINI CÉLIA REGINA , AYUB MARCO ANTÔNIO ZÁCHIA
Published: February 2008

The physicochemical and microbiological characteristics and the aminopeptidase activity variation of Serrano cheese during winter and summer were investigated. Samples from different producers varied significantly, showing nonstandardized procedures for the manufacturing and ripening of this product. There were no significant changes in aminopeptidase activity during maturation and most of the enzyme activity found in the water extracts of cheese would have their origin in lactobacillus and enterococci, suggesting autolysis of these micro‐organisms. Results show an increase in free amino acids during maturation, with higher amounts in the summer product.
Biochemical changes during the ripening of homemade ‘San Simón da Costa’ raw milk cheese
Authors: NHUCH E L , PRIETO B , FRANCO I , BERNARDO A , CARBALLO J
Published: February 2008

‘San Simón da Costa’ cheese is a traditional smoked variety produced in the northwest of Spain from cow's milk. Biochemical changes were determined during its ripening. Its high calcium and phosphorus content and its low NaCl and sodium content stand out. This cheese undergoes moderate proteolysis. The most abundant free amino acid at the end of the ripening was glutamic acid, followed by tryptophan, leucine, arginine and phenylalanine. The lipolysis throughout ripening is slight; the most abundant free fatty acid being oleic, followed by palmitic and butyric acid.
Factors that affect the aggregation of rennet‐altered casein micelles at low temperatures
Authors: BANSAL NIDHI , FOX PATRICK F , McSWEENEY PAUL L H
Published: February 2008

The effects of temperature, CaCl2 concentration, pH and ionic strength of milk on the aggregation of casein micelles in milk renneted at 15ºC were studied using particle size analysis determined by laser‐light scattering. The rate of aggregation of rennet‐altered casein micelles became significantly slower on reducing the temperature of renneting from 30 to 10ºC. At 15ºC, the rate of aggregation of rennet‐altered casein micelles increased significantly on adding CaCl2, on reducing the pH of renneted milk or on adding NaCl (up to 50 mm). These results indicate that particle size analysis can be used successfully to study the aggregation of rennet‐altered casein micelles.