bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Karl Olivecrona's Legal Philosophy. A Critical Appraisal*
Authors: SPAAK TORBEN
Published: May 2011

I argue in this article (i) that Karl Olivecrona's legal philosophy, especially the critique of the view that law has binding force, the analysis of the concept and function of a legal rule, and the idea that law is a matter of organized force, is a significant contribution to twentieth century legal philosophy. I also argue (ii) that Olivecrona fails to substantiate some of his most important empirical claims, and (iii) that the distinction espoused by Olivecrona between the truth and the correctness of legal statements is problematic but not needed in Olivecrona's legal philosophy.
Lost in the System or Lost in Translation? The Exchanges between Hart and Ross*
Authors: ENG SVEIN
Published: May 2011

According to the received opinion there is a theoretical incompatibility between Herbert Hart'sThe Concept of Lawand Alf Ross'sOn Law and Justice, and, according to the received opinion, it stems above all from Hart's emphasis on the internal point of view. The present paper argues that this reading is mistaken.The Concept of Lawdoes not go beyondOn Law and Justicein so far as both present arguments to the effect that law is based on a shared understanding between participants in a project perceived by every participant to be a project in common. The paper demonstrates that there are substantive parallels between Hart's combination of “acceptance” or “acknowledgement” and a “critical reflective attitude” and Ross's combination of “motivation” or “feeling” and a “coherent whole of meaning and motivation.” The main conclusion is that the views of norms and normativity put forward inThe Concept of LawandOn Law and Justiceare very close in essential respects, and, more specifically, that the two works are at root identical in their representation of the basis of normativity in reality.
Does Forecast Combination Improve Norges Bank Inflation Forecasts?*
Authors: Bjørnland Hilde C. , Gerdrup Karsten , Jore Anne Sofie , Smith Christie , Thorsrud Leif Anders
Published: May 2011

We develop a system that provides model‐based forecasts for inflation in Norway. We recursively evaluate quasi out‐of‐sample forecasts from a large suite of models from 1999 to 2009. The performance of the models are then used to derive quasi real time weights that are used to combine the forecasts. Our results indicate that a combination forecast improves upon the point forecasts from individual models. Furthermore, a combination forecast outperforms Norges Bank's own point forecast for inflation. The beneficial results are obtained using a trimmed weighted average. Some degree of trimming is required for the combination forecasts to outperform the judgmental forecasts from the policymaker.
Real Options in Management and Organizational Strategy: A Review of Decision‐making and Performance Implications
Authors: Driouchi Tarik , Bennett David J.
Published: May 2011

This paper contributes to the debate on the role of real options theory in business strategy and organizational decision‐making. It analyses and critiques the decision‐making and performance implications of real options within the management theories of the (multinational) firm, reviews and categorizes the organizational, strategic and operational facets of real options management in large business settings. It also presents the views of scholars and practitioners regarding the incorporation and validity of real options in strategy, international management and business processes1. The focus is particularly on the decision‐making and performance attributes of the real options logic concerning strategic investments, governance modes and multinational operations management. These attributes are examined from both strategic and operating perspectives of decision‐making in organizations, also with an overview of the empirical evidence on real options decision‐making and performance.
Prefrontal overactivation, autonomic arousal, and task performance under evaluative pressure: A near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) study
Authors: Ito Hiroyuki , Yamauchi Hoshiko , Kaneko Hitoshi , Yoshikawa Toru , Nomura Kenji , Honjo Shuji
Published: May 2011

To study the mechanism underlying the influence of psychological pressure on task performance, we investigated the relationship between prefrontal activation, autonomic arousal, and performance in an n‐back working memory task with 3 load levels (l‐, 2‐, and 3‐back tasks) under evaluative pressure. The tasks were performed by 32 university students with or without evaluative observation by experimenters. The error rate and prefrontal activation were found to increase with pressure only in the highest load task (3‐back). In contrast, autonomic arousal increased with pressure regardless of the task condition. Correlation analysis showed a positive correlation of the error rate with prefrontal activation in the 3‐back task and no consistent correlation with autonomic arousal. We concluded that the inhibitory effect of evaluative pressure on task performance is mediated by prefrontal overactivation rather than autonomic arousal.
Meeting the challenges of clinical information provision
Authors: Spring Hannah
Published: May 2011

This virtual issue of the Health Information and Libraries Journal (HILJ) has been compiled to mark the 5th International Clinical Librarian Conference 2011. In considering the challenges of clinical information provision, the content selected for the virtual issue offers an international flavour of clinical information provision and covers a variety of different facets of clinical librarianship. The issue broadly covers the areas of information needs and preferences, clinical librarian roles and services, and education and training, and reflects the way in which a normal issue of the HILJ would be presented. This includes a review article, a collection of original articles, and the three regular features which comprise International Perspectives and Initiatives, Learning and Teaching in Action, and Using Evidence in Practice. All papers included in this virtual issue are available free online.
Casein kinase 1 enables nucleus accumbens amphetamine‐induced locomotion by regulating AMPA receptor phosphorylation
Authors: Li Dongdong , Herrera Stacy , Bubula Nancy , Nikitina Elena , Palmer Abraham A , Hanck Dorothy A , Loweth Jessica A , Vezina Paul
Published: May 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 118, 237–247.

The closely related δ and ε isoforms of the serine/threonine protein kinase casein kinase 1 (Csnk1) have been implicated in the generation of psychostimulant‐induced behaviors. In this study, we show that Csnk1δ/ε produces its effects on behavior by acting on the Darpp‐32‐PP1 signaling pathway to regulate AMPA receptor phosphorylation in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc). Inhibiting Csnk1δ/ε in the NAcc with the selective inhibitor PF‐670462 blocks amphetamine induced locomotion and its ability to increase phosphorylation of Darpp‐32 at S137 and T34, decrease PP1 activity and increase phosphorylation of the AMPA receptor subunit at S845. Consistent with these findings, preventing GluR1 phosphorylation with the alanine mutant GluR1(S845A) reduces glutamate‐evoked currents in cultured medium spiny neurons and blocks the locomotor activity produced by NAcc amphetamine. Thus, Csnk1 enables the locomotor and likely the incentive motivational effects of amphetamine by regulating Darrp‐32‐PP1‐GlurR1(S845) signaling in the NAcc. As such, Csnk1 may be a critical target for intervention in the treatment of drug use disorders.
The role of long‐distance seed dispersal in the local population dynamics of an invasive plant species
Authors: Pergl Jan , Müllerová Jana , Perglová Irena , Herben Tomáš , Pyšek Petr
Published: May 2011

Aim  Long‐distance dispersal is important for plant population dynamics at larger spatial scales, but our understanding of this phenomenon is mostly based on computer modelling rather than field data. This paper, by combining field data and a simulation model, quantifies the fraction of the seed of the alien species Heracleum mantegazzianum that needs to disperse over a long distance for successful invasion.

Location  Central Europe, Czech Republic.

Methods  To assess the role of random dispersal in long‐term population dynamics of the studied species, we combined longitudinal data covering 50 years of the invasion of this plant from its very start, inferred from a series of aerial photographs of 60‐ha plots, with data on population dynamics at a fine scale of 10‐m2 plots.

Results  A simulation model based on field data indicates that the fraction of seed that is dispersed from source plants not described by the short‐distance dispersal kernel ranges from 0.1 to 7.5% of the total seed set. The fraction of long‐distance dispersed seed that provides the best prediction of the observed spread was significantly negatively correlated with the percentage of habitats suitable for invasion.

Main conclusions  Our results indicate that the fraction of seeds that needed to be dispersed over long distances to account for the observed invasion dynamics decreased with increasing proportion of invasible habitats, indicating that the spatial pattern of propagule pressure differs in landscapes prone to invasion. Long‐distance dispersal is an important component of the population dynamics of an invasive species even at relatively small scales.
An empirical evaluation of the African elephant as a focal species for connectivity planning in East Africa
Authors: Epps Clinton W. , Mutayoba Benezeth M. , Gwin Lauren , Brashares Justin S.
Published: May 2011

Aim  Large, charismatic and wide‐ranging animals are often employed as focal species for prioritizing landscape linkages in threatened ecosystems (i.e. ‘connectivity conservation’), but there have been few efforts to assess empirically whether focal species co‐occur with other species of conservation interest within potential linkages. We evaluated whether the African elephant (Loxodonta africana), a world‐recognized flagship species, would serve as an appropriate focal species for other large mammals in a potential linkage between two major protected area complexes.

Location  A 15,400 km2 area between the Ruaha and Selous ecosystems in central Tanzania, East Africa.

Methods  We used walking transects to assess habitat, human activity and co‐occurrence of elephants and 48 other large mammal species (> 1 kg) at 63 sites using animal sign and direct sightings. We repeated a subset of transects to estimate species detectability using occupancy modelling. We used logistic regression and AIC model selection to characterize patterns of elephant occurrence and assessed correlation of elephant presence with richness of large mammals and subgroups. We considered other possible focal species, compared habitat‐based linear regression models of large mammal richness and used circuit theory to examine potential connectivity spatially.

Results  Elephants were detected in many locations across the potential linkage. Elephant presence was highly positively correlated with the richness of large mammals, as well as ungulates, carnivores, large carnivores and species > 45 kg in body mass (‘megafauna’). Outside of protected areas, both mammal richness and elephant presence were negatively correlated with human population density and distance from water. Only one other potential focal species was more strongly correlated with species richness than elephants, but detectability was highest for elephants.

Main conclusions  Although African elephants have dispersal abilities that exceed most other terrestrial mammals, conserving elephant movement corridors may effectively preserve habitat and potential landscape linkages for other large mammal species among Tanzanian reserves.
Low‐avidity anti‐HPA‐1a alloantibodies are capable of antigen‐positive platelet destruction in the NOD/SCID mouse model of alloimmune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Bakchoul Tamam , Kubiak Sebastian , Krautwurst Annika , Roderfeld Monika , Siebert Hans C. , Bein Gregor , Sachs Ulrich J. , Santoso Sentot
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND: Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) is mostly caused by maternal antibodies against human platelet antigen 1a (HPA‐1a) expressed on glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa. Accumulated evidence indicated that anti‐HPA‐1a could be overlooked by standard methods due to low avidity. Low‐avidity HPA‐1a antibodies were shown to be detectable by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). We sought to investigate the frequency and in vivo relevance of low‐avidity anti‐HPA‐1a.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort consisting of 82 HPA‐1bb mothers of HPA‐1ab newborns with thrombocytopenia was analyzed using standard serologic methods. Maternal immunoglobulin (Ig)G fractions were investigated for low‐avidity antibodies in SPR using purified GPIIb/IIIa (HPA‐1a or ‐1b). The capability of HPA‐1a antibodies to clear platelets (PLTs) in vivo was analyzed using the NOD/SCID mouse model of alloimmune thrombocytopenia.

RESULTS: HPA antibodies were detectable in sera from 68 of 82 (83%) mothers using standard serologic methods and undetectable in 14 of 82 sera. In SPR, IgG fractions of sera reacting positive in monoclonal antibody immobilization of PLT antigen (MAIPA) assay showed specific binding to an HPA‐1a flow cell (mean, 87 ± 21 resonance units [RU]). When MAIPA‐negative sera were tested in SPR, binding with low avidity was observed in 7 of 14 to HPA‐1a (mean, 31 ± 5 RU), but not to HPA‐1b flow cell (mean, 5 ± 2 RU). In vivo, low‐avidity antibodies were capable of clearing HPA‐1ab PLTs but not HPA‐1bb PLTs in a NOD/SCID mouse model. Elimination kinetics were slower than observed with MAIPA‐positive antibodies.

CONCLUSIONS: Low‐avidity HPA‐1a antibodies are present in a significant number of NAIT cases and, although they can escape detection by standard serology, they harbor the capability of PLT destruction in vivo.
Low‐Temperature Sintering and Piezoelectric Properties of 0.65Pb(Zr1−xTix)O3–0.35Pb(Ni0.33Nb0.67)O3 Ceramics
Authors: Nam Chan‐hee , Park Hwi‐Yeol , Seo In‐Tae , Choi Jae‐Hong , Joung Mi‐Ri , Nahm Sahn , Lee Hwack‐Joo , Kim Young‐Heon , Sung Tae Hyun
Published: May 2011

0.65Pb(Zr1−xTix)O3–0.35Pb(Ni0.33Nb0.67)O3 (0.65PZTx–0.35PNN) ceramics exhibited a morphotropic phase boundary at approximately x=0.58–0.59. The 0.65PZT58–0.35PNN ceramics sintered at 1200°C exhibited the high piezoelectric properties of d33=605pC/N, kp=0.61, and ɛ3T/ɛ0=3600. The sintering temperature of the PZT58–PNN ceramics decreased from 1200 to 850°C with the addition of a small amount of CuO. The CuO reacted with the PbO and formed a liquid phase during sintering, which assisted in the densification of the specimens. Most of the Cu2+ ions existed in the CuO second phase, thereby preventing any possible hardening effect due to the Cu2+ ions. The Curie temperature of the 0.65PZT58–0.35PNN ceramic was approximately 200°C and was not altered by the addition of CuO. The d33, kp, and ɛ3T/ɛ0 values of the 0.65PZT58–0.35PNN ceramics were considerably increased with the addition of CuO and similar results were also observed for the 0.65PZT59–0.35PNN ceramics. In particular, 1.0 mol% CuO‐added 0.65PZT58–0.35PNN ceramics sintered at 900°C exhibited the high piezoelectric properties of d33=620 pC/N, kp=0.64, and ɛ3T/ɛ0=3750. Moreover, the reaction between the Ag electrode and the Cu‐added 0.65PZT58–0.35PNN ceramic sintered at 900°C was negligible.
Hydrothermal Oxidation Behavior of Bulk Titanium Aluminum Carbide
Authors: Zhang Haibin , Presser Volker , Nickel Klaus Georg , Berthold Christoph , Zhou Yanchun
Published: May 2011

Hydrothermal oxidation of bulk Ti3AlC2in continuous water flow was studied at 500°–700°C under a hydrostatic pressure of 35 MPa. During hydrothermal oxidation, titanium and aluminum were oxidized and selectively removed from Ti3AlC2with the survival of carbon. Reaction kinetics obeyed a linear time‐law. The hydrothermal oxidation rates were sluggish at 500– 600°C and faster at 700°C accompanied with the formation of cracks in oxides. This study clarified that the resistance of bulk Ti3AlC2against hydrothermal oxidation was high up to 700°C.
Rules Versus Statistics: Insights From a Highly Inflected Language
Authors: Mirković Jelena , Seidenberg Mark S. , Joanisse Marc F.
Published: May 2011

Inflectional morphology has been taken as a paradigmatic example of rule‐governed grammatical knowledge (Pinker, 1999). The plausibility of this claim may be related to the fact that it is mainly based on studies of English, which has a very simple inflectional system. We examined the representation of inflectional morphology in Serbian, which encodes number, gender, and case for nouns. Linguists standardly characterize this system as a complex set of rules, with disagreements about their exact form. We present analyses of a large corpus of nouns which showed that, as in English, Serbian inflectional morphology is quasiregular: It exhibits numerous partial regularities creating neighborhoods that vary in size and consistency. We then asked whether a simple connectionist network could encode this statistical information in a manner that also supported generalization. A network trained on 3,244 Serbian nouns learned to produce correctly inflected phonological forms from a specification of a word's lemma, gender, number, and case, and generalized to untrained cases. The model's performance was sensitive to variables that also influence human performance, including surface and lemma frequency. It was also influenced by inflectional neighborhood size, a novel measure of the consistency of meaning to form mapping. A word‐naming experiment with native Serbian speakers showed that this measure also affects human performance. The results suggest that, as in English, generating correctly inflected forms involves satisfying a small number of simultaneous probabilistic constraints relating form and meaning. Thus, common computational mechanisms may govern the representation and use of inflectional information across typologically diverse languages.
E2F‐1‐ and E2Ftr‐mediated apoptosis: the role of DREAM and HRK
Authors: Hao Hongying , Chen Canming , Rao Xiao‐Mei , Gomez‐Gutierrez Jorge G. , Zhou H. Sam , McMasters Kelly M.
Published: May 2011

E2F‐1‐deleted mutant, ‘truncated E2F’ (E2Ftr, E2F‐1[1–375]), lacking the carboxy‐terminal transactivation domain, was shown to be more potent at inducing cancer cell apoptosis than wild‐type E2F‐1 (wtE2F‐1; full‐length E2F‐1). Mechanisms by which wtE2F‐1 and E2Ftr induce apoptosis, however, are not fully elucidated. Our study demonstrates molecular effects of pro‐apoptotic BH3‐only Bcl‐2 family member Harakiri (Hrk) in wtE2F‐1‐ and E2Ftr‐induced melanoma cell apoptosis. We found that Hrk mRNA and Harakiri (HRK) protein expression was highly up‐regulated in melanoma cells in response to wtE2F‐1 and E2Ftr overexpression. HRK up‐regulation did not require the E2F‐1 transactivation domain. In addition, Hrk gene up‐regulation and HRK protein expression did not require p53 in cancer cells. Hrk knockdown by Hrk siRNA was associated with significantly reduced wtE2F‐1‐ and E2Ftr‐induced apoptosis. We also found that an upstream factor, ‘downstream regulatory element antagonist modulator’ (DREAM), may be involved in HRK‐mediated apoptosis in response to wtE2F‐1 and E2Ftr overexpression. DREAM expression levels increased following wtE2F‐1 and E2Ftr overexpression. Western blotting detected increased DREAM primarily in dimeric form. The homodimerization of DREAM resulting from wtE2F‐1 and E2Ftr overexpression may contribute to the decreased binding activity of DREAM to the 3′‐untranslated region of the Hrk gene as shown by electromobility shift assay. Results showed wtE2F‐1‐ and E2Ftr‐induced apoptosis is partially mediated by HRK. HRK function is regulated in response to DREAM. Our findings contribute to understanding the mechanisms that regulate wtE2F‐1‐ and E2Ftr‐induced apoptosis and provide insights into the further evaluation of how E2Ftr‐induced apoptosis may be used for therapeutic gain.
Maternal and perinatal complications by day of gestation after spontaneous labor at 40–42 weeks of gestation
Authors: GREVE TINE , LUNDBYE‐CHRISTENSEN SØREN , NICKELSEN CARSTEN N. , SECHER NIELS J.
Published: May 2011

Objective. To evaluate pregnancy outcome after spontaneous labor by day of gestation between 40+0 and 41+6 weeks of gestation. Design. Evaluation of prospectively collected labor ward data. Setting. University Hospital, Denmark. Population. Unselected consecutive cohort of 14 678 spontaneously starting deliveries between 280 and 293 days of gestation during the years 2000–2006. Methods. Data were registered in a computer program after each delivery by a midwife and the entries further evaluated by a specialist in obstetrics. Complication rates were compared using Fisher's exact test. Main Outcome Measures. Maternal complication rates for each gestation day, including cesarean delivery, maternal blood transfusion, episiotomy, operative vaginal delivery, third and fourth degree perineal lacerations and perinatal morbidity. Results. The cesarean delivery rate increased from 6% on day 280 to 11% on day 293. Cesarean delivery increased from 40 to 41 weeks gestation (7.3 vs. 9.5%, p<0.005), as did maternal transfusion (0.5 vs. 1.2%, p<0.001) and cesarean section on the indication fetal distress (1.5 versus 2.4%, p<0.005), but perineal lacerations did not. Likewise, there was an increase in episiotomy rates (3.0 vs. 3.5%, p=0.08), operative vaginal delivery (5.8 vs. 6.5%, p=0.07) and admission to neonatal intensive care (1.4 versus 2.0%, p=0.009), but no increase in 5 minute Apgar scores <7 or low umbilical artery acid–base values. Conclusions. Deliveries starting spontaneously in an unselected cohort showed an increase in maternal complications, meconium‐stained amniotic fluid and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit.
Cord blood collection for banking and the risk of maternal hemorrhage
Authors: AMAT LLUÍS , SABRIÀ JOAN , MARTÍNEZ EVA , RODRÍGUEZ NÚRIA L. , QUEROL SERGIO , LAILLA JOSEP M.
Published: May 2011

We determined the effect of cord blood collection before placental expulsion on postpartum maternal blood loss in a retrospective study between a group of cord blood donors and a group of non‐donors. The study was conducted in a university hospital blood bank and obstetric services and included Spanish women entered in a European study project (EUPHRATES) and who had consented to donate cord blood for public banking purposes. We measured blood volume lost during delivery by a bag collection method, as well as the need for transfusion and postpartum anemia symptoms. Deliveries at which cord blood was collected presented a significant increase in blood loss (321±273 vs. 255±237ml, p=0.02). Instrumental deliveries were associated with higher postpartum blood loss than spontaneous deliveries. Cord blood collection can increase intrapartum blood loss, especially at instrumental deliveries. Additional staff who handle the collection are required to allow the leading clinician to focus on maternal care.
The experimental research on two‐generation BLB dental implants ‐ Part I: surface modification and osseointegration
Authors: Yin Kaifeng , Wang Zhifeng , Fan Xin , Bian Yuanyuan , Guo Jing , Lan Jing
Published: May 2011

Objective: The study was designed to evaluate the comparative effect of osseointegration induced by the dental implants of Beijing Leiden Biomaterial (BLB) and BLBIII.

Materials and methods: The surface properties ofBLBI and BLBIII were studied through thermal field‐scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) and optical profilometer. A total of 36 BLBI and BLBIII implants, with each of the two groups possessing 18, were randomly implanted into the extraction fossa of the mandibular premolar areas of six Beagles. The animals were then executed 2, 4 and 8 weeks after the surgery, which was followed by macroscopic examination and histomorphometric analysis.

Results: Typical cloud‐form microstructure was found on the surface of BLBI implant, which was distributed widely yet in an irregular way. The surface of BLBIII implant was mainly featured by a highly porous layer. The EDS spectra of BLBI indicated the peaks of calcium (Ca) and phosphorous (P) compatible with apatite phase, while the peaks of Ca, P, oxygen and titanium were incorporated in the BLBIII group. The ratio of Ca and K showed no significant differences in the surface chemical composition of BLBI and BLBIII. Surface microtopographic analysis showed a statistical difference (P<0.01) in the roughness between BLBI (Ra) and BLBIII. In the healing period, a larger amount of osteoid and bone tissues were observed in the areas surrounding the BLBIII group than those of the BLBII group. After 2 and 4 weeks of the surgery, the bone–implant contact (BIC) of BLBIII group presented higher value of statistical significance (P<0.05) than that of BLBI. However, after the 8‐week healing period, the BIC difference between the two groups proved to be of no statistical significance (P>0.05).

Conclusion: Micro‐arc oxidation (MAO) and electrophoresis deposition (EPD) are able to produce a highly porous layer on the surface of BLBIII, which is characterized by a relatively stable Ca/P ratio similar to that of the hydroxyapatite layer. Therefore, superior and early osseointegration potential was demonstrated in the threaded implants treated by MAO coupling with EPD, rather than the merely cylindrical‐shaped ones with plasma‐sprayed HA coating layer.

To cite this article: Yin K, Wang Z, Fan X, Bian Y, Guo J, Lan J. The experimental research on two‐generation BLB dental implants. Part I: surface modification and osseointegration. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 23, 2012; 846–852. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2011.02209.x
Elite swimmers with and without unilateral shoulder pain: mechanical hyperalgesia and active/latent muscle trigger points in neck–shoulder muscles
Authors: Hidalgo‐Lozano A. , Fernández‐de‐las‐Peñas C. , Calderón‐Soto C. , Domingo‐Camara A. , Madeleine P. , Arroyo‐Morales M.
Published: May 2011

Our aim was to investigate the presence of mechanical hypersensitivity and active trigger points (TrPs) in the neck–shoulder muscles in elite swimmers with/without unilateral shoulder pain. Seventeen elite swimmers with shoulder pain; 18 swimmers without shoulder pain; and 15 elite athletes matched controls were recruited. Pressure pain thresholds (PPT) were assessed over the levator scapulae, sternocleidomastoid, upper trapezius, infraspinatus, scalene, subscapularis and tibialis anterior muscles. TrPs in the levator scapulae, upper trapezius, infraspinatus, scalene, sternocleidomastoid and subscapularis muscles were also explored. Swimmers with shoulder pain showed significant lower PPT in all muscles compared with controls (P<0.01). No differences in PPT were found between swimmers with and without shoulder pain, underlining widespread mechanical hypersensitivity. The mean number of TrPs for elite swimmer with and without shoulder pain was, respectively, 4.7 ± 1 (2.1 ± 1.5 active; 2.6 ± 1.4 latent) and 4.7 ± 1.3 (1.3 ± 1.3 active; 3.4 ± 1.5 latent), whereas healthy athletes only showed latent TrPs (2.4 ± 1.2). Elite swimmers with shoulder pain showed higher number of active TrPs than swimmers without pain, whereas it was the opposite for the number of latent muscle TrP (P<0.05). The reported mechanical hypersensitivity suggests that active TrPs play a role in the development of shoulder pain in elite swimmers.
Impact of collagen crosslinking on the second harmonic generation signal and the fluorescence lifetime of collagen autofluorescence
Authors: Lutz Vivien , Sattler Martin , Gallinat Stefan , Wenck Horst , Poertner Ralf , Fischer Frank
Published: May 2011

Background/purpose: Collagen is the major structural protein of the skin and its crosslinks are essential for its mechanical stability. In photodamaged skin, a decrease of the mature collagen crosslink histidinohydroxylysino‐norleucine was reported. In this study, we investigated the consequences and measurability of the reduced crosslinking.

Methods: In order to determine the consequences of reduced collagen crosslinking, in vitro models of reduced collagen crosslinking were established. The collagen synthesis and structure was analyzed using the signals second harmonic generation (SHG) and the fluorescence lifetime of the collagen autofluorescence by a multiphoton laser scanning microscope.

Results: Reduced collagen crosslinking results in a posttranscriptionally diminished collagen synthesis, a modified structure of the collagen fibers and fibrils and a higher intensity of the SHG signal. The SHG signal might be influenced by the interspaces of the collagen molecules within one collagen fibril. Because of these findings, it can be speculated that reduced collagen crosslinking changes the interspace of single collagen molecules within the collagen fibril, resulting in an enhanced SHG signal. Alternative explanations are discussed. Furthermore, the fluorescence lifetime was reduced in the in vitro models of reduced collagen crosslinking. In the crosslink sites of the collagen molecules, the main ratio of fluorescence is found. As the fluorescence lifetime is determined not only by the fluorescent molecule itself but also by its microenvironment, the change in the fluorescence lifetime might be explained by reduced crosslinking at the crosslink site.

Conclusion: A reduction of collagen crosslinking (as seen in photodamaged skin) results in an increase of the SHG signal and a decrease of the fluorescence lifetime in vitro. In vivo measurements of the two parameters might reveal the status of collagen crosslinking and therefore help to identify the status of dermal photodamage or pathogenesis using collagen crosslinking determination.
Cargo‐Dependent Degradation of ESCRT‐I as a Feedback Mechanism to Modulate Endosomal Sorting
Authors: Malerød Lene , Pedersen Nina Marie , Sem Wegner Catherine Elisabeth , Lobert Viola Hélène , Leithe Edward , Brech Andreas , Rivedal Edgar , Liestøl Knut , Stenmark Harald
Published: May 2011

Ligand‐mediated lysosomal degradation of growth factor receptors, mediated by the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) machinery, is a mechanism that attenuates the cellular response to growth factors. In this article, we present a novel regulatory mechanism that involves ligand‐mediated degradation of a key component of the sorting machinery itself. We have investigated the endosomal localization of subunits of the four ESCRTs—Hrs (ESCRT‐0), Tsg101 (ESCRT‐I), EAP30/Vps22 (ESCRT‐II) and charged multivesicular body protein 3/Vps24 (ESCRT‐III). All the components were detected on the limiting membrane of multivesicular endosomes (MVEs). Surprisingly, however, Tsg101 and other ESCRT‐I subunits were also detected within intraluminal vesicles (ILVs) of MVEs. Tsg101 was sequestered along with cargo during endosomal sorting into ILVs and further degraded in lysosomes. Importantly, ESCRT‐mediated downregulation of two distinct cargoes, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and connexin43, mutually made cells refractory to degradation of the other cargo. Our observations indicate that the degradation of a key ESCRT component along with cargo represents a novel feedback control of endosomal sorting by preventing collateral degradation of cell surface receptors following stimulation of one specific pathway.
Microarray analysis of sexually dimorphic gene expression in human minor salivary glands
Authors: Michael D , Soi S , Cabera‐Perez J , Weller M , Alexander S , Alevizos I , Illei GG , Chiorini JA
Published: May 2011

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 653–661

Objective:  We hypothesized that differential mRNA transcription between the sexes may be linked to the 9:1 female‐to‐male gender‐related relative risk for the development of Sjögren’s syndrome (SS), an autoimmune disease that leads to inflammation and dysfunction in the lachrymal and salivary glands.

Subjects and Methods:  RNA from minor salivary glands was collected from nine healthy volunteers (four men and five women) and analyzed using the Agilent 4 × 44K human microarray platform. Differential expression was confirmed by qRT‐PCR.

Results:  Comparison of the transcriptome of minor salivary glands from normal male and female volunteers with that of salivary glands and secretory epithelia identified a number of gender, species, and tissue‐specific gene expression patterns. These differences include, but are not limited to, a diverse set of genes involved in immune modulation, chemotactic control, inhibition of complement, metabolism, and neurogenesis.

Conclusion:  Analysis of these changes provides insight into the protective and predisposing molecular factors that may be involved in the development of Sjögren’s syndrome. Some of the gene changes observed in this study correlate with previously observed sexual dimorphisms in salivary gland function and also illustrate several new targets for further investigation.
A comparison of two questionnaires measuring oral health‐related quality of life before and after dental hygiene treatment in patients with periodontal disease
Authors: Öhrn K , Jönsson B
Published: May 2011

To cite this article:
 
Int J Dent Hygiene
10, 2012; 9–14  DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2011.00511.x  Öhrn K, Jönsson B. A comparison of two questionnaires measuring oral health‐related quality of life before and after dental hygiene treatment in patients with periodontal disease.

Abstract:  Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the usefulness of two different questionnaires assessing oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) at the basic examination and after initial dental hygiene treatment (DHtx). Methods: A total of 42 patients referred for periodontal treatment completed the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐14) and the General Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) at the basic periodontal examination. They underwent DHtx and completed the questionnaires once again after the treatment. Results: No statistically significant differences could be found between the two assessments, neither for the total scores nor for any of the separate items of the OHIP‐14 or the GOHAI. However, the GOHAI questionnaire seems to result in a greater variety in the responses indicating that the floor effect is not as pronounced as for the OHIP‐14. Those who had rated their oral health as good reported significantly better OHRQoL on both questionnaires. The same pattern was found for patients who reported that they were satisfied with their teeth. After DHtx and necessary extractions, there was a statistically significant correlation between the number of teeth and the total scores on both questionnaires. No other statistically significant correlations with periodontal variables could be found. Conclusion: No statistically significant difference could be found after DHtx compared to before in regard to OHRQoL assessed with OHIP‐14 and GOHAI. However, there was a greater variety in the responses with the GOHAI questionnaire; it may hereby be more useful for patients with periodontal disease.
CARPE: a registry project of the German Dermatological Society (DDG) for the characterization and care of chronic hand eczema
Authors: Apfelbacher Christian Joachim , Akst Wilhelm , Molin Sonja , Schmitt Jochen , Bauer Andrea , Weisshaar Elke , Mahler Vera , Treichel Sabine , Ruzicka Thomas , Luger Thomas , Elsner Peter , Diepgen Thomas Ludwig
Published: May 2011

Background: The aim of the CARPE (German acronym: Chronisches Handekzem‐Register zum Patienten‐Langzeitmanagement; meaning: chronic hand eczema registry on long‐term patient management) registry is to investigate characteristics and treatment modalities in patients affected by chronic hand eczema in Germany.

Methods: The registry was built up under the auspices of the German Dermatological Society (Deutsche Dermatologische Gesellschaft, DDG). Patients with chronic hand eczema are prospectively assessed by dermatolog‐ical examination and patient questionnaire. Socio‐economic data and data on diagnostics, skin status, severity and treatment of chronic hand eczema and atopy criteria are repeatedly assessed. Here, we present baseline characteristics of the first 515 patients.

Results: 53.8 % of the patients were female, mean age was 47.3 years. The average duration of CHE was 7.7 years. 30.4 % had already received inpatient care, 31.2 % had been on sick leave in the past 12 months. 94.5 % had received topical corticosteroids prior to inclusion in the registry, 31.9 % topical calcineurin inhibitors, 38.3 % UV therapy, 28.6 % systemic antihistamines, 36.5 % systemic treatments, 14.9 % systemic corticosteroids, 25.8 % systemic retinoids.

Conclusions: The CARPE project demonstrates the high medical burden and therapeutic challenge of chronic hand eczema and presents first data for health care research. Furthermore, the designed follow‐up study will present important data about the natural history and prognosis of this chronic skin disease.
Muscle function assessment in children
Authors: Jones MA , Stratton G.
Published: May 2011

Assessment of muscle function has a range of applications, including appraisal of the presence and severity of muscle weakness and fatigability, examination of the effectiveness of intervention programmes and development and monitoring of training programmes. Muscle function assessment is routinely performed in rehabilitation, physical education, coaching and research. Procedures have been extensively examined in adults, but not in children. The aim of this review is to bring to the forefront the issue of paediatric muscle function assessment. Objective methods of muscle function assessment are critically analysed with specific attention to the issues of applicability, validity and reliability. Each of the methods reviewed (isokinetic dynamometry, hand‐held dynamometry, field tests, and standard weights equipment) has its limitations. All procedures have been occasionally studied for validity and reliability and optimal procedures have yet to be identified. Methodological limits can be generalized to the type and speed of activation, standardization of procedures, subject familiarization, gravity and size and psychological influences. It is important for administrators of muscle function tests to be aware of the various factors that can both influence and confound interpretation.

It was concluded that muscle function assessment in children requires significant further investigation. Although there is a wide range of procedures available, there is limited and equivocal research proving validity and reliability. Widespread use of the most valid and reliable methods is encouraged. Future research directions are also considered.
Silent acetaminophen‐induced hepatotoxicity in febrile children: Does this entity exist?
Authors: Shaoul R. , Novikov J. , Maor I. , Jaffe M.
Published: May 2011

Several descriptions of acetaminophen‐associated liver injury caused by therapeutic or a dosage slightly above the recommended dosage have been described. Our hypothesis is that in sick febrile infants and children, who may also be calorie depleted, there might be an increased hepatic vulnerability to acetaminophen. Aim: (1) To correlate serum acetaminophen levels in febrile infants and children with the following parameters: aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, fever, vomiting and/or decreased caloric intake; and (2) to assess parental knowledge regarding the medication dosage and hazards of acetaminophen. Methods: Healthy children with an acute febrile illness, who had received acetaminophen, were eligible to participate in the study. AST and acetaminophen levels were drawn, and a detailed questionnaire was completed for every child. Results: 107 children participated in the study; 50 girls and 57 boys with ages ranging from 1 mo to 16 y (mean 33 mo). All serum acetaminophen levels were within the safety range. Although 32% of parents administered a single acetaminophen dose above 15 mg/kg and 46% gave a daily dose above 60 mg/kg/d, no significant differences were observed in the serum acetaminophen and AST levels compared to those who received the appropriate dose. In about 60% of cases, the high doses were recommended by a physician. Young age and high fever were associated with significantly higher acetaminophen levels. We could not find an association between acetaminophen levels and vomiting, decreased caloric intake and AST levels. Only 24 parents (22%) were aware of the possible toxicity of acetaminophen.

Conclusions: No evidence of increased hepatic vulnerability to acetaminophen was noted in a cohort of febrile infants and children. Furthermore, significant numbers of parents and physicians were unaware of acetaminophen dangers.
The Paradox of “Fraud‐on‐the‐Market Theory”: Who Relies on the Efficiency of Market Prices?
Authors: Erenburg Grigori , Smith Janet Kiholm , Smith Richard L.
Published: May 2011

Our evidence points to an inconsistency between the efficient markets hypothesis and the way U.S. courts have applied the hypothesis in cases involving allegations of fraud on the market. Based on a sample of securities class action cases, we find that (1) some cases certified for class action status do not satisfy the conditions for even weak‐form efficiency; (2) numerous opportunities exist for cost‐effective investors (those who can trade quickly and at low cost) to profit by using simple momentum‐based strategies; (3) including such investors as class members effectively subsidizes their strategies and overstates damages from reliance on market efficiency; (4) when such investors can profit by rejecting market efficiency, standard measures of damage overstate the fraud‐related damage of other investors; and (5) because of endogeneity, the factors that commonly are relied on by the courts for determining market efficiency bear little or no relation to weak‐form efficiency.
Do Joint Parenting Laws Make Any Difference?
Authors: Allen Douglas W. , Brinig Margaret
Published: May 2011

Using a unique data set on divorcing couples, we analyze the effects of a change in legal entitlement on the outcomes for divorcing couples. In particular, we analyze the 1997 change to custody provisions in the State of Oregon. Prior to 1997, Oregon assigned custody, based on the discretion of the court, in the best interests of the child. This was changed to a “presumption” of joint parenting, which manifests in the courts encouraging and imposing joint (or shared) custody in cases that otherwise would have had sole custody arrangements. We find that the law had several implications for divorce behavior: different custody outcomes (less sole custody to mothers, more sole custody to fathers), more mediation, longer times until the final divorce, and more acrimonious divorces (more abuse actions filed). We find no evidence that spouses attempted to bargain around the change of legal entitlement.
Oral health in institutionalised elderly people in Oslo, Norway and its relationship with dependence and cognitive impairment
Authors: Zuluaga Dairo J Marín , Ferreira Jenny , Montoya José A. Gil , Willumsen Tiril
Published: May 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00490.x
 
Oral health in institutionalised elderly people in Oslo, Norway and its relationship with dependence and cognitive impairment

Objective:  Investigating oral health’s relationship with dependency and cognitive state.

Background:  Oral hygiene is poor in the institutionalised elderly. There are problems regarding the oral care of residents having poor mobility or cognitive impairment.

Material and methods:  Cross‐sectional study involving 135 participants (mean age 85.7, SD 8.8 years) in two categories: nurses doing tooth cleaning and residents doing tooth cleaning. Those cleaned by nurses were categorised as co‐operative or unco‐operative. The oral hygiene status, presence of caries, retained roots and denture‐related stomatitis were recorded.

Results:  Of the participants, 70% had only natural teeth. The prevalence of caries was 28%. A significant correlation showed that having more teeth gave a poorer Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI‐S) (p = 0.018). The number of retained roots increased with the severity of cognitive impairment (p < 0.05). Significant differences were found between nurses or residents doing the tooth cleaning on the OHI‐S (p = 0.05) and percentage of dental plaque (p = 0.003). Unco‐operative residents had poorer oral hygiene (p = 0.028), more caries (p = 0.008) and were more often moderate–severe cognitive impaired (p = 0.016).

Conclusions:  A high percentage of participants had unacceptable oral hygiene. Residents whose teeth were cleaned by the nurses had poorer oral hygiene. Unco‐operative residents had the worst oral hygiene and more caries.
Assessing oral health promotion determinants in active Greek elderly
Authors: Naka Olga , Anastassiadou Vassiliki
Published: May 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00491.x
 
Assessing oral health promotion determinants in active Greek elderly

Objective:  To explore older adults’ patterns and risk behaviours to be invoked in the allocation of strategies to promote oral health.

Background:  Access to dental services is determined by factors that serve as barriers to or enablers of older adults’ behaviour and attitudes towards oral health. Appropriate oral health promotion activities are of particular importance among the elderly in altering oral health behaviour through education, prevention and health protection.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 108 dentate elderly subjects. They were attending a University Prosthetic Dentistry Clinic in Greece as patients seeking treatment. Participants underwent a clinical examination and an interview.

Results:  Data extracted revealed that cost and no disease awareness were the most frequently mentioned barriers to regular dental visits. Most of the participants presented low level of income and education and reduced presence of adverse dental health symptoms compared with the actual oral health status. Besides some predisposing factors, enabling and need variables significantly affected access to dental care services, participants’ number of remaining teeth and as a consequence oral health status.

Conclusion:  Profiling older adults’ demographics, economic, social and cultural status and their attitudes and beliefs could further contribute in developing universal activities and strategies for oral health promotion so as ageing challenges are favoured.
Enzymatic features of the glucose metabolism in tumor cells
Authors: Herling Anique , König Matthias , Bulik Sascha , Holzhütter Hermann‐Georg
Published: May 2011

Many tumor types exhibit an impaired Pasteur effect, i.e. despite the presence of oxygen, glucose is consumed at an extraordinarily high rate compared with the tissue from which they originate – the so‐called ‘Warburg effect’. Glucose has to serve as the source for a diverse array of cellular functions, including energy production, synthesis of nucleotides and lipids, membrane synthesis and generation of redox equivalents for antioxidative defense. Tumor cells acquire specific enzyme‐regulatory mechanisms to direct the main flux of glucose carbons to those pathways most urgently required under challenging external conditions such as varying substrate availability, presence of anti‐cancer drugs or different phases of the cell cycle. In this review we summarize the currently available information on tumor‐specific expression, activity and kinetic properties of enzymes involved in the main pathways of glucose metabolism with due regard to the explanation of the regulatory basis and physiological significance of the Warburg effect. We conclude that, besides the expression level of the metabolic enzymes involved in the glucose metabolism of tumor cells, the unique tumor‐specific pattern of isozymes and accompanying changes in the metabolic regulation below the translation level enable tumor cells to drain selfishly the blood glucose pool that non‐transformed cells use as sparingly as possible.