bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncertainty and Sensitivity Analysis of Damage Identification Results Obtained Using Finite Element Model Updating
Authors: Moaveni Babak , Conte Joel P. , Hemez François M.
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  A full‐scale seven‐story reinforced concrete shear wall building structure was tested on the UCSD‐NEES shake table in the period October 2005–January 2006. The shake table tests were designed so as to damage the building progressively through several historical seismic motions reproduced on the shake table. A sensitivity‐based finite element (FE) model updating method was used to identify damage in the building. The estimation uncertainty in the damage identification results was observed to be significant, which motivated the authors to perform, through numerical simulation, an uncertainty analysis on a set of damage identification results. This study investigates systematically the performance of FE model updating for damage identification. The damaged structure is simulated numerically through a change in stiffness in selected regions of a FE model of the shear wall test structure. The uncertainty of the identified damage (location and extent) due to variability of five input factors is quantified through analysis‐of‐variance (ANOVA) and meta‐modeling. These five input factors are: (1–3) level of uncertainty in the (identified) modal parameters of each of the first three longitudinal modes, (4) spatial density of measurements (number of sensors), and (5) mesh size in the FE model used in the FE model updating procedure (a type of modeling error). A full factorial design of experiments is considered for these five input factors. In addition to ANOVA and meta‐modeling, this study investigates the one‐at‐a‐time sensitivity analysis of the identified damage to the level of uncertainty in the identified modal parameters of the first three longitudinal modes. The results of this investigation demonstrate that the level of confidence in the damage identification results obtained through FE model updating, is a function of not only the level of uncertainty in the identified modal parameters, but also choices made in the design of experiments (e.g., spatial density of measurements) and modeling errors (e.g., mesh size). Therefore, the experiments can be designed so that the more influential input factors (to the total uncertainty/variability of the damage identification results) are set at optimum levels so as to yield more accurate damage identification results.
Mobilities, Vulnerabilities and Sustainabilities: Exploring Pathways from Denial to Sustainable Rural Development
Authors: Marsden Terry
Published: February 2009

Mobilities, vulnerabilities and sustainabilities represent three key and potentially divergent processes currently affecting rural Europe. Together they also set some key challenges and potentials for critical rural social science. This article, after first setting these processes in the global macro‐context of growing environmental vulnerability and spatial uneven development, explores each of these processes in turn. It asks how rural areas can meet the challenges of these increasing mobilities in ways which reduce vulnerabilities and enhance sustainabilities. One answer, it is argued, concerns the critical understanding and dissemination of the sustainable rural development model. In the second part of the article some of the conceptual building blocks of such a model are proposed, suggesting the recasting of new rural–urban relationships based around new eco‐economic principles.
Ontology‐supported Querying of Geographical Databases
Authors: Baglioni Miriam , Giovannetti Emiliano , Masserotti Maria Vittoria , Renso Chiara , Spinsanti Laura
Published: February 2009

Querying geographical information systems has been recognized as a difficult task for non‐expert users. Furthermore, user queries are often characterized by semantic aspects not directly managed by traditional spatial databases or GIS. Examples of such semantic geospatial queries are the use of implicit spatial relations between objects, or the reference of domain concepts not explicitly represented in data. To handle such queries, we envisage a system that translates natural language queries into spatial SQL statements on a database, thus improving standard GIS with new semantic capabilities. Within this general objective, the contribution of this article is to introduce a methodology to handle semantic geospatial queries issued over a spatial database. This approach captures semantics from an ontology built upon the spatial database and enriched by domain concepts and properties specifically defined to represent the localization of objects. Some examples of the use of the methodology in the urban domain are presented.
Historical Learning in the Design of WTO Rules: The EC Sugar Case
Authors: Ackrill Robert , Kay Adrian
Published: February 2009

The Uruguay Round Agreement made significant changes to the governance of international trade. Trade rules and dispute settlement mechanisms were altered and a series of specific agreements provided for liberalisation across economic sectors. The Agreement on Agriculture, arguably the most difficult and contentious to negotiate, permitted the continued use of trade‐distorting instruments, both domestically and at the border. Rule‐enforcement in agriculture therefore relies crucially on the clarity of the rules. This paper provides an in‐depth study of a unique and critical case for understanding the new rules: the EC sugar regime. This policy was challenged unsuccessfully under the pre‐Uruguay Round rules, but successfully under the new rules. This case is particularly valuable in allowing us to isolate the effect of the Uruguay Round on agricultural trade disputes: the policy under challenge was essentially unchanged and the legal actions addressed the same concern – excessive export subsidisation. Drawing on primary and secondary materials and interviews with key policy actors, sugar is used to illustrate how those involved in the multilateral process learned from particular rule weaknesses revealed in earlier cases, revising those rules in the Uruguay Round in such a way that dispute panels can more readily and objectively determine rule breaches.
The Emergence of Iran in the World Car Industry: An Estimation of its Export Potential
Authors: Abedini Javad , Péridy Nicolas
Published: February 2009

In the past 10 years Iran has been emerging as a major car producer in the world. However, due to delays in economic reforms, Iranian car exports have not increased as much as production. This paper presents a first estimation of the Iranian export potential in the car industry. Based on new theoretical developments of the gravity equation, an empirical bilateral trade model is proposed. It includes sectoral variables (car production, import tariffs), as well as other original variables, such as expectations and hysteresis. We then develop a dataset which includes the 40 major car‐exporting countries in the world, 34 importing countries, a 10‐year time period as well as four car production groups. The model is then estimated by using alternative panel data estimators, such as those of Hausman and Taylor and dynamic estimators as well as transformed variables estimators. Export potential is finally calculated from the residuals of the model. Results show that Iranian current car exports are about 100 times less than their fitted values. This indicates that there is a significant export potential for Iran, especially toward India, China, Russia, as well as smaller neighbours (Turkey, Pakistan, Central Asian countries). As a result, Iran could become the major auto supplier in the Middle East. However, this requires the completion and success of ongoing economic reforms.
COMMENTARY ON ELIZABETH COREY'S INTERPRETATION OF MICHAEL OAKESHOTT
Authors: Podoksik Efraim
Published: February 2009

Elizabeth Corey suggests that in order to understand Michael Oakeshott's worldview one should pay special attention to two subjects, religion and aesthetics, and analyze the connection between these two realms and the idea of practical life in general and of politics in particular. Her book provides a sympathetic but also critical conversation with Oakeshott's ideas, ultimately offering us a coherent picture of the place of the religious, poetical, and political in the totality of his thought. Corey persuasively shows that the major ideas of the mature Oakeshott originated in his earlier religious convictions and that his philosophy of aesthetics, contrary to what his critics claimed, fit nicely in the general framework of his thought.
FEDERATIVE GLOBAL DEMOCRACY
Authors: CAVALLERO ERIC
Published: February 2009

Abstract: In this essay a set of principles is defended that yields a determinate allocation of sovereign competences across a global system of territorially nested jurisdictions. All local sovereign competences are constrained by a universal, justiciable human rights regime that also incorporates a conception of cross‐border distributive justice and regulates the competence to control immigration for a given territory. Subject to human rights constraints, sovereign competences are allocated according to a conception of global democracy. The proposed allocation scheme can accommodate substantial local autonomy while at the same time ensuring that everyone has a voice in the political decisions that affect his or her interests. The relevant class of affected interests is fully specified. Relevant affects are of two kinds: those that impose norms of governance on individuals, and those that impose external costs on them. The favored sense of “an external cost” is developed and defended.
IS LIBERAL NATIONALISM INCOMPATIBLE WITH GLOBAL DEMOCRACY?
Authors: SCHUTTER HELDER DE , TINNEVELT RONALD
Published: February 2009

Abstract: To respond to globalization‐related challenges, many contemporary political theorists have argued for forms of democracy beyond the level of the nation‐state. Since the early 1990s, however, political theory has also witnessed a renewed normative defense of nationhood. Liberal nationalists have been influential in claiming that the state should protect and promote national identities, and that it is desirable that the boundaries of national and political units coincide. At first glance, both positions—global democracy and nationalism—seem to contradict each other. We do not share this oppositional picture. Developing a more harmonic picture of nationalist ideals and cosmopolitan visions is the aim of this essay.
IMMIGRATION, NATIONALISM, AND HUMAN RIGHTS
Authors: EXDELL JOHN
Published: February 2009

Abstract: Michael Walzer and David Miller defend the authority of democratic states to determine who will be allowed entry and membership. In support of this view they have claimed that the domestic solidarity necessary for social justice is threatened by the unregulated influx of outsiders. This empirical thesis proves to be false when applied to the United States, where heavy Latino and Latina immigration is more likely to increase civic solidarity than to diminish it. Seen in this light, the positions of Jürgen Habermas and Carol Gould, giving human rights priority over democratic sovereignty in decisions about membership, cannot be criticized as utopian. Liberal philosophers can also defend open borders as a way to give oppressed peoples representation inside powerful countries where state decisions often threaten access to essential resources and basic freedoms in their home countries.
STRUCTURING GLOBAL DEMOCRACY: POLITICAL COMMUNITIES, UNIVERSAL HUMAN RIGHTS, AND TRANSNATIONAL REPRESENTATION
Authors: GOULD CAROL C.
Published: February 2009

Abstract: The emergence of cross‐border communities and transnational associations requires new ways of thinking about the norms involved in democracy in a globalized world. Given the significance of human rights fulfillment, including social and economic rights, I argue here for giving weight to the claims of political communities while also recognizing the need for input by distant others into the decisions of global governance institutions that affect them. I develop two criteria for addressing the scope of democratization in transnational contexts—common activities and impact on basic human rights—and argue for their compatibility. I then consider some practical implications for institutional transformation and design, including new forms of transnational representation.
Luck and the Domain of Distributive Justice
Authors: Schwartz Daniel
Published: February 2009

Abstract: The natural lottery is a metaphor about the way luck affects the allocation of personal attributes, talents, skills, and defects. Susan Hurley has argued that it is incoherent to regard individual essential properties (IEPs) as a matter of lottery luck. The reason is that a lottery of identity‐affecting properties generates the ‘non‐identity problem’. For this reason among others she suggests substituting lottery luck with ‘thin luck’, i.e. luck as non‐responsibility, which would allow us to coherently regard IEPs as a matter of luck.

I argue that we are not not‐responsible for our IEPs. Therefore, the coherent range of ‘thin luck’ is not broader than that of lottery luck. Moreover, justice theorists need to be worried about the non‐identity problem only to the extent that IEPs affect life prospects and it is far from evident that they do. After addressing some connected aspects of Hurley's analysis, I discuss the type of reasons that justify seeking to expand domain of justice and the ways of doing this, for instance by abandoning lottery luck. I close by suggesting, however, that if Parfit's view of ‘what matters about identity’ is correct, its application to the case of identity‐affecting lotteries may prove the expansion of the domain of justice superfluous, as IEPs belong to it as it is.
Trust, Distrust and Betrayal: A Social Housing Case Study
Authors: Cowan David , Morgan Karen
Published: February 2009

This paper discusses the importance of trust, distrust and betrayal in the context of relational contracts in the modern welfare state. We use a specific case study of the allocation of social housing. That context is one in which the local authority has statutory obligations towards households in housing need but limited ability to fulfil those obligations without reliance on other social housing providers, specifically registered social landlords. Relationships between providers are, in theory, negotiated through nominations agreements. In this paper, we draw on data from a research project concerned with ‘problematic nominations’ to illustrate the production of trust, distrust and betrayal. Our analysis is structured by reference to three frameworks for the production of trust: characteristic‐based, process‐based and institutional based trust.
Urban labour, voice and legitimacy: economic development and the emergence of community unionism
Authors: Symon Graham , Crawshaw Jonathan
Published: February 2009

Community unionism has emerged in the past decade as a growing strand of industrial relations research and is influencing trade union strategies for renewal. This article seeks to further develop the concept, while exploring the potential roles for unions in communities subject to projects of urban regeneration.
Women under protection – in hiding from violent men
Authors: Weinehall Katarina , Jonsson Marie‐Louise
Published: February 2009

In Sweden in 2007, 11,047 people, out of a population of around nine million were living under at‐risk conditions requiring protective measures for their safety. Sixty per cent were women, most of them hiding from men who had battered them and were still threatening and stalking them. In this research and intervention study, a group of women in hiding were given different kinds of support and 23 women were interviewed. These women struggle to make a living, work or study, and their finances are extremely strained. Their social networks/interactions are nonexistent. Living under constant threat and insecurity has an adverse impact on the women's health. The community is obliged, for economic and security reasons, to support battered women. There are still severe shortcomings with regard to security. One recommendation is the institution of personal protection officers, i.e. specially trained social service caseworkers able to support the woman once protection measures have been decided.
Finite element modeling of slug tests in an aquifer with stratigraphical and structural heterogeneities
Authors: CHENG J.‐T. , EVERETT M. E.
Published: February 2009

Slug interference tests using an array of multilevel active and monitoring wells permit enhanced aquifer characterization. Analyses of these field test data rely on numerical inverse models. In order to provide synthetic data sets and to have a better understanding of the flow mechanisms, we used a three‐dimensional finite element analysis (FEHM) to explore the effects of idealized, stratigraphical (strata) and structural (faults) heterogeneities with low permeability values on the transient head field that is associated with slug tests in an aquifer. Firstly, we tested our model on homogeneous aquifers and the effectiveness of our modeling strategies have been validated via the excellent agreement of our modeling results with those of the semi‐analytical model of Liu & Butler (1995). In our heterogeneity investigations, we embedded vertical and horizontal zones of lower permeability into a homogenous, isotropic, and confined aquifer to represent low‐permeability faults and strata respectively. A slugged interval is located at the center of the aquifer. Effects of strata thickness and permeability contrast as well as other effects associated with the offset of low‐permeability strata were explored. In particular, modeling results are represented by contour maps of peak travel time and maximum head perturbation of generated hydraulic pulses. Furthermore, various phenomena, such as real‐time matrix diffusion, intermittent matrix–fracture interactions, and faster pulse arrival through a longer flow trajectory, are concretely presented in the snapshots of head perturbations in the aquifer. Our finite element modeling provides useful information for understanding the behaviors of diffusive pressure propagation in an aquifer with stratigraphical and/or structural heterogeneities, and for designing hydraulic tomography to enhance aquifer characterization.
Assessing genetic diversity for conservation management: a case study of a threatened reptile
Authors: Miller K. A. , Chapple D. G. , Towns D. R. , Ritchie P. A. , Nelson N. J.
Published: February 2009

The consequences of inbreeding in small isolated populations are well documented, yet populations are often managed in isolation to avoid irreversibly mixing genetic lineages and to maintain the historic integrity of each population. Three remaining populations of Whitaker's skink (Cyclodina whitakeri) in New Zealand, remnants of a once wider distribution, illustrate the conflict between this genetic goal (separate management of populations) with the more tangible and immediate threats of small population size and inbreeding. Middle and Castle Islands harbour populations of C. whitakeri and have been separated from each other and from the mainland for ∼10 000 years. The single mainland population at Pukerua Bay is extremely small, declining and deemed a high priority for management. We sequenced a 550 bp region of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA,ND2) and genotyped animals from all three populations at 13 microsatellite loci. The population of C. whitakeri at Pukerua Bay showed marked differences from the island populations at both mtDNA (unique, fixed haplotype) and microsatellite loci (FST∼0.20), and private alleles were detected at a high frequency (24% of all alleles). However, we attribute this pattern to an historic genetic gradient coupled with rapid genetic drift. Further, animals in captivity show genetic signatures of both Pukerua Bay and island populations, despite the goal to maintain a pure Pukerua Bay stock. The mixed genetic stock in captivity provides an opportunity for the addition of skinks from Middle Island to evaluate the risks of further population hybridization, including the disruption of potential local adaptation, while mitigating the risks of inbreeding.
Pervasive threats within a protected area: conserving the endemic birds of São Tomé, West Africa
Authors: Dallimer M. , King T. , Atkinson R. J.
Published: February 2009

The importance of the rainforests on the island of São Tomé for biodiversity is well known. However, the area only recently received full legal protection as a National Park and currently few resources are available to enforce that legislation. With rapid economic development forecast for the island, active conservation efforts are essential. Here we study the distribution and density of the island's endemic bird species, including nine that are Globally Threatened, within the National Park. Sites, covering the full range of primary forest types, were surveyed using distance sampling methods. No introduced species were observed. The highest number of species, including eight Globally Threatened species, were found in lowland rainforest, although many were infrequently encountered. Higher altitude sites were less diverse, but supported some of the common endemic species at extremely high densities. The least diverse assemblage, with generally lower species population densities, occurred at the most accessible mid‐altitude forest site. Distance from settlements was a key explanatory variable for the presence of all Globally Threatened species, indicating that human habitation has negative effects on the suitability of nearby forest habitats. This suggests that, as infrastructure improvements proceed, populations of endangered species will come under growing pressure. Integrating the needs of biodiversity conservation and development represents a major challenge for many biodiverse countries and on São Tomé, as elsewhere, may best be achieved by preserving the still intact functioning forest ecosystem.
Scaling up child and adolescent mental health services in South Africa: Human resource requirements and costs
Authors: Lund Crick , Boyce Gerard , Flisher Alan J. , Kafaar Zuhayr , Dawes Andrew
Published: February 2009

Background: Children and adolescents with mental health problems have poor service cover in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Little is known about the resources that would be required to provide child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) in these countries. The purpose of this study was to calculate the human resources and associated costs required to scale up CAMHS in South Africa.

Methods: A spreadsheet model was developed to calculate mental health service resources, based on an estimation of the need for services in a given population. The model can be adapted to specific settings by adjusting population size, age distribution, prevalence, comorbidity, levels of coverage, service utilisation rates, workloads, length of consultations and staff profile. Steps in the modelling include population identification; estimates of prevalence, service utilisation and staffing; and costing.

Results: Using a nominal total population of 100,000 (of which 43,170 would be children and adolescents under 20 years of age), the following full‐time equivalent staff are required at minimum coverage level: 5.8 in PHC facilities, .6 in general hospital outpatient departments (OPDs), .1 in general hospital inpatient facilities, 1.1 in specialist CAMHS OPDs, .6 in specialist CAMHS inpatient facilities, .5 in specialist CAMHS day services, and .8 in regional CAMHS teams. This translates into roughly $21.50 and $5.99 per child or adolescent per annum nationally for the full coverage and minimum coverage scenarios respectively. When comparing the results of this model with current realities in South Africa, there remains a substantial shortfall in existing levels of CAMHS provision.

Conclusions: The model can be used as an advocacy tool to engage with planners and policy makers on a rational basis. It can also be adapted for use in other countries, and is intended to support wider calls for a global scaling up of mental health services.
Acceptability of human papillomavirus vaccination among Chinese women: concerns and implications
Authors: Kwan TTC , Chan KKL , Yip AMW , Tam KF , Cheung ANY , Lo SST , Lee PWH , Ngan HYS
Published: February 2009

Objective  To explore Chinese women’s perceptions of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and their intention to be vaccinated.

Design  A cross‐sectional community‐based survey study.

Setting  Thirteen community women’s health centres of The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong.

Sample  A total of 1450 ethnic Chinese women aged 18 or above who attended the health centres.

Methods  Participants completed a written consent and an anonymous questionnaire onsite.

Main outcome measures  Knowledge and beliefs about HPV and HPV vaccination against cervical cancer and participants’ own intention to be vaccinated.

Results  About 38% of the participants (n = 527) had heard of HPV and 50% (n = 697) had heard of vaccination against cervical cancer. HPV infection was perceived to be stigmatising and detrimental to intimate, family and social relationships. Despite misconceptions and a grossly inadequate knowledge about HPV and HPV vaccination, 88% of the participants (n = 1219) indicated that they would likely be vaccinated. Majority of the participants believed that sexually experienced women should be vaccinated, while 27% opposed vaccinating sexually naive women. Younger age women who perceived a disruptive impact of HPV infection on intimate relationship and their partners’ approval were significantly associated with a positive intention to be HPV vaccinated.

Conclusions  The easy acceptability of HPV vaccination among the mostly sexually experienced Chinese participants and their knowledge deficit on the subject may implicate potential misuse of the vaccines and a false sense of security against cervical cancer. There is a dire need for culturally sensitive and tailored education for the public, women of different ages and their partners about HPV and HPV vaccination. Emphasis must be placed on the prophylactic nature of the current vaccines, the uncertain effects when given to sexually experienced women, the importance of adolescent vaccination and the need for continued cervical screening whether vaccinated or not.
Clinical decision‐making in a multidisciplinary gynaecological cancer team: a qualitative study
Authors: Kidger J , Murdoch J , Donovan JL , Blazeby JM
Published: February 2009

Objective  To explore the factors that influence treatment decision‐making in a gynaecological cancer team (MDT).

Design  Qualitative study using interviews and observations.

Setting  Gynaecological cancer MDT meetings and participants’ offices.

Sample  A gynaecological cancer MDT and members of that team.

Methods  Observations of ten MDT meetings and semistructured interviews with 16 team members. Data analysis using the constant comparison technique of grounded theory and ethnography.

Main outcome measures  Factors affecting treatment decisions in the MDT meetings.

Results  Disease‐centred information was central to decision‐making, whereas patient‐centred factors such as patient choice and co‐morbidity were more peripheral. This was partly due to variation in team members’ type and level of participation: senior clinicians occupied the most dominant roles in discussions and decision‐making, whereas nurses contributed less but were more likely to focus on patient‐related factors. Three main decision‐making pathways emerged: a short discussion followed by a clear decision, a prolonged discussion ending in a definite treatment plan, and a lengthy discussion with no clearly stated decision at the end. The type of pathway followed depended on a case’s complexity and the extent of agreement among team members.

Conclusions  The process of treatment decision‐making was not consistent for all women but was affected by factors such as the complexity of the case, which team members participated, and the extent of team members’ agreement. Improvements are needed to ensure patient‐centred information is included for all women and that clear decisions are reached and recorded in all cases.
‘Weighing up and balancing out’: a meta‐synthesis of barriers to antenatal care for marginalised women in high‐income countries
Authors: Downe S , Finlayson K , Walsh D , Lavender T
Published: February 2009

Background  In high‐resource settings around 20% of maternal deaths are attributed to women who fail to receive adequate antenatal care. Epidemiological evidence suggests many of these women belong to marginalised groups often living in areas of relative deprivation. Reasons for inadequate antenatal attendance have yet to be fully evaluated.

Objectives  To identify the factors affecting access to antenatal care for marginalised pregnant women living in developed countries.

Search strategy  We included qualitative studies from developed countries published in English language journals (1980–2007).

Selection criteria  Qualitative studies exploring the views of marginalised women living in developed countries who either failed to attend for any antenatal care or did so late or irregularly.

Data collection and analysis  Eight studies fulfilled the selection criteria and were synthesised in accord with the techniques derived from meta‐ethnography.

Main results  Initial access is influenced by late pregnancy recognition and subsequent denial or acceptance. Continuing access appears to depend on a strategy of weighing up and balancing out of the perceived gains and losses. Personal resources in terms of time, money and social support are considered alongside service provision issues including the perceived quality of care, the trustworthiness and cultural sensitivity of staff and feelings of mutual respect.

Conclusions  A nonthreatening, nonjudgemental antenatal service run by culturally sensitive staff may increase access to antenatal care for marginalised women. Multiagency initiatives aimed at raising awareness of, and providing access to, antenatal care may also increase uptake.
Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia in Norway: poor detection rate with nonscreening versus a general screening programme
Authors: Tiller H , Killie MK , Skogen B , Øian P , Husebekk A
Published: February 2009

The implementation of an antenatal screening programme for neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) is currently under debate. We evaluated the detection rate for NAIT in a nonscreened population of 661 200 births where NAIT was diagnosed on clinical indication. We did a cross‐sectional comparison with a population of 100 448 human platelet antigen 1a (HPA1a)‐screened pregnancies from three of the five health regions in Norway. In a nonscreening situation, 7.5 cases of NAIT were detected per year compared with 53 cases when screening was applied. The detection rate of NAIT in Norway was therefore 14% of the expected rate.
Tuberculosis in pregnancy in the UK
Authors: Knight M , Kurinczuk JJ , Nelson‐Piercy C , Spark P , Brocklehurst P
Published: February 2009

Tuberculosis (TB) is a globally important cause of morbidity and mortality with an increasing incidence in women of reproductive ages. This descriptive study using the UK Obstetric Surveillance System demonstrates key differences in the presentation of TB during pregnancy compared with the nonpregnant population. The disease is limited to ethnic minority women, most commonly recent immigrants. Presentation may be atypical, with extrapulmonary disease as common as pulmonary. Clinicians should be aware of the potential for nonspecific presentation of the disease in pregnancy and consider the diagnosis in women, especially recently arrived immigrants, presenting with nonspecific symptoms.
Start of induction of labour with oxytocin in the morning or in the evening. A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Bakker JJ , De Vos R , Pel M , Wisman C , Van Lith JM , Mol BWJ , Van Der Post JA
Published: February 2009

Objective  The objective of this study was to compare outcomes of induced labour with intravenous oxytocin with a start in the evening versus in the morning.

Design  Randomised controlled trial.

Setting  Labour wards of three hospitals in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Participants  Women with an indication for induction of labour with intravenous oxytocin.

Methods  Included women were randomized to either the evening group with a start of induction of labour at 21:00 hours, or the morning group with a start at 07:00 hours.

Main outcome measures  Primary outcome was duration of labour. Secondary outcomes were instrumental delivery rate, adverse neonatal outcome defined as an Apgar score below 7 after 5 minutes, number and indications of paediatric consults and neonatal admissions, duration of second stage, number of intrapartum infections and necessity of pain relief.

Results  We randomised 371 women. Mean duration of labour was not significantly different (primiparae: morning 12 hours and 8 minutes versus evening 11 hours and 22 minutes, P value 0.29; multiparae: morning 7 hours and 34 minutes versus evening 7 hours and 46 minutes, P value 0.70). There were no significant differences in instrumental deliveries rates, number of infections or patient satisfaction. Unexpectedly, neonatal outcome was better in women induced in the evening.

Conclusion  Induction of labour with intravenous oxytocin in the evening is equally effective as induction in the morning.
The inflammatory response in the MPTP model of Parkinson’s disease is mediated by brain angiotensin: relevance to progression of the disease
Authors: Joglar Belen , Rodriguez‐Pallares Jannette , Rodriguez‐Perez Ana Isabel , Rey Pablo , Guerra Maria Jose , Labandeira‐Garcia Jose Luis
Published: February 2009

The neurotoxin MPTP reproduces most of the biochemical and pathological hallmarks of Parkinson’s disease. In addition to reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated as a consequence of mitochondrial complex I inhibition, microglial NADPH‐derived ROS play major roles in the toxicity of MPTP. However, the exact mechanism regulating this microglial response remains to be clarified. The peptide angiotensin II (AII), via type 1 receptors (AT1), is one of the most important inflammation and oxidative stress inducers, and produces ROS by activation of the NADPH‐oxidase complex. Brain possesses a local angiotensin system, which modulates striatal dopamine (DA) release. However, it is not known if AII plays a major role in microglia‐derived oxidative stress and DA degeneration. The present study indicates that in primary mesencephalic cultures, DA degeneration induced by the neurotoxin MPTP/MPP+ is amplified by AII and inhibited by AT1 receptor antagonists, and that protein kinase C, NADPH‐complex activation and microglial activation are involved in this effect. In mice, AT1 receptor antagonists inhibited both DA degeneration and early microglial and NADPH activation. The brain angiotensin system may play a key role in the self‐propelling mechanism of Parkinson’s disease and constitutes an unexplored target for neuroprotection, as previously reported for vascular diseases.
N‐terminally truncated BAF57 isoforms contribute to the diversity of SWI/SNF complexes in neurons
Authors: Kazantseva Anna , Sepp Mari , Kazantseva Jekaterina , Sadam Helle , Pruunsild Priit , Timmusk Tõnis , Neuman Toomas , Palm Kaia
Published: February 2009

J. Neurochem. (2009) 109, 807–818.

The SWItch/Sucrose NonFermentable, a nucleosome remodeling complex (SWI/SNF) chromatin‐remodelling complexes act upon the nucleosomal structure and regulate transcription, replication, repair of chromatin and splicing. In this study, we present evidence that human, mouse and rat genes encoding one of the SWI/SNF complex subunits, BAF57, undergo neuron‐specific splicing of exons II, III and IV. Alternative splicing yields in at least three isoforms of BAF57 protein that have truncated N‐termini (N‐BAF57s). The transcripts encoding N‐BAF57 isoforms are predominantly expressed in the nervous system. The biochemical fractionation data supported by the results of the co‐immunoprecipitation analysis show that N‐BAF57 isoforms associate into protein complexes together with Brg1, Brm, BAF155 and BAF170. Transient over‐expression of N‐BAF57 isoforms in non‐neural cells affects the level of expression of certain neuron‐restrictive silencer element‐containing genes. Together these data suggest that neuronal isoforms of BAF57 contribute to functional SWI/SNF complexes regulating neurogenesis.
Decrease of reported adverse events to injectable polylactic acid after recommending an increased dilution: 8‐year results from the Injectable Filler Safety study
Authors: Rossner Florian , Rossner Mathias , Hartmann Vanessa , Erdmann Ricardo , Wiest Luitgard G , Rzany Berthold
Published: February 2009

Background  Injectable fillers are widely used in aesthetic medicine. Polylactic acid (PLA) is a semipermanent filler that needs to be diluted with sterile water before injection. PLA has been associated with an increased risk of adverse reactions, specifically nodule formation.

Objective  To describe adverse reactions to PLA and potential risk factors based on a partly population‐based registry over an 8‐year period.

Methods  The Berlin registry is a partially population‐based registry where dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and other specialists are contacted regularly and asked to report patients with adverse events to injectable fillers substances. Additional patients were derived from private practices outside of Berlin. The patients were assessed with a standardized questionnaire. The results were mainly analyzed by descriptive measures.

Results  Twenty‐two patients (age, 47.82 ± 12.65 years) with adverse reactions to PLA were included. The most frequent adverse reaction was nodule formation found in all patients. In 13 (59.1%) of the cases, nodule formation was considered to be severe. Nodules appeared after a mean latency period of 6.00 ± 5.84 months. The duration of the adverse reactions until the interview was 14.32 ± 10.13 months. The frequency of patients with adverse events to PLA was found to decrease after new recommendations concerning the dilution of the product were launched.

Conclusion  PLA is an injectable filler substance that may cause subcutaneous nodules in treated patients. Our data support a decreased risk of adverse reactions with an increased dilution. However, nodule formation still appears to be a characteristic feature of PLA.
Randomized study comparing the efficacy and tolerance of a lipophillic hydroxy acid derivative of salicylic acid and 5% benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of facial acne vulgaris
Authors: Bissonnette R , Bolduc C , Seité S , Nigen S , Provost N , Maari C , Rougier A
Published: February 2009

Background  New topical treatments for acne vulgaris are needed for patients who have tolerance problems with current treatments.

Aims  To compare the efficacy and tolerance of a lipophillic derivative of salicylic acid (lipo hydroxy acid or LHA) containing formulation and 5% benzoyl peroxide in subjects with acne vulgaris.

Methods  Eighty subjects with mild to moderate facial acne were randomized to receive either the LHA formulation twice a day or benzoyl peroxide once a day for 12 weeks. Efficacy and tolerance were evaluated at days 0, 28, 56 and 87.

Results  LHA formulation and benzoyl peroxide decreased the number of inflammatory lesions from baseline to week 12 by 44% and 47% and noninflammatory lesions by 19% and 23%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the two treatments (P = 0.748; P = 0.445).

Conclusion  These results suggest that the LHA formulation could be a treatment option to consider in mild to moderate acne vulgaris patients that are intolerant to benzoyl peroxide.
Botulinum toxin cosmetic therapy correlates with a more positive mood
Authors: Lewis Michael B , Bowler Patrick J
Published: February 2009

Background  It has been suggested that botulinum toxin A (BTX‐A) treatment for frown lines can also be used as a treatment for depression. A psychological mechanism for this effect is reviewed in which paralysis of the corrugator (frown) muscles leads to less facial feedback for negative emotions. Consequently, a negative affect is harder to maintain and so the person has a more positive mood.

Methods  In order to test this mechanism, the mood of patients who had received BTX‐A treatment for glabelar frown lines was measured and compared with patients who had received other cosmetic treatments.

Results  The BTX‐A–treated patients showed significantly less negative mood.

Conclusion  The results support the facial feedback view that frowning can make one unhappier. Treatments that prevent frowning correlate with reduced negative mood.
Revisiting biothermal effects on erythematous hypertrophic scars during pregnancy
Authors: Nizet J‐Luc , Piérard Gérald E , Quatresooz Pascale
Published: February 2009

Background  Pregnancy is possibly associated with altered wound healing including the development of hypertrophic or keloidal scarring. The management of these lesions may prove to be difficult, and there are no universally accepted treatment protocols.

Objective  To assess erythema fading of hypertrophic scars following cold applications.

Methods  Skin color was assessed using the Visi‐Chroma VC100® technology following validation of the method. We compared the effects of freezing or cooling hypertrophic scars developed in 45 Caucasian pregnant women. The effects of liquid nitrogen spray cryotherapy, hydrogel cooling pads, and thermal contact cushions were compared.

Result  This pilot study showed that the three treatment modalities substantially decreased erythema. The thermal contact cushion appeared to be the most effective biothermal means for achieving this effect.

Conclusion  Freezing or cooling hypertrophic scars helps reducing erythema of hypertrophic scars. This effect probably results from an inhibitory action exerted on the microvasculature. Data suggest that repeat applications of mild cooling might be more effective than a few short freezing sessions.
Effect of green Coffea arabica L. seed oil on extracellular matrix components and water‐channel expression in in vitro and ex vivo human skin models
Authors: Del Carmen Velazquez Pereda Maria , De Campos Dieamant Gustavo , Eberlin Samara , Nogueira Cecília , Colombi Débora , Di Stasi Luiz Claudio , De Souza Queiroz Mary Luci
Published: February 2009

Background  Green Coffea arabica L. seed oil is being widely used in cosmetic formulations, although its effects on human skin cells are not clear and most observations are unpublished.

Aims  In this study, we evaluated the in vitro effects of green coffee (C. arabica L.) oil (GCO) on the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans (GAG) and in the release of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) and granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) by human skin fibroblasts. We also investigated the ability of GCO to increase aquaglycerolporins‐3 (AQP‐3) mRNA expression in cultured keratinocytes and human skin explants.

Methods  Human fibroblasts were incubated for 48 h with several GCO concentrations (3.12, 6.25, 12.5, 25.0 and 50.0 mg/mL). The levels of growth factors and extracellular matrix compounds in the culture supernatant were measured using commercial kits. To evaluate AQP‐3 relative expression, using real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, keratinocytes were incubated for 3–6 h with the GCO optimal concentration of 25.0 mg/mL. Histological sections of human skin were also incubated with GCO (25.0 mg/mL) and immunostained by antiserum against AQP‐3.

Results  Our results demonstrated that incubation with GCO produces a dose‐dependent stimulation in the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and GAG, in addition to increasing the release of the growth factors TGF‐β1 and GM‐CSF. GCO also induced the expression of AQP‐3 mRNA, which reached levels up to 6.5‐fold higher than those of the control cultures.

Conclusion  The findings presented herein suggest that GCO might improve physiological balance in the skin, thus allowing the formation of new connective tissue, and preventing epidermis dryness by increasing AQP‐3 levels. Taking into account the limitations of in vitro studies, it is encouraging in this context to consider CGO as an adjuvant to be used in dermocosmetic formulations. Clinical studies are in progress in our laboratory aiming to further investigate the protective effects of CGO in the skin.
Anti‐atherogenic effect of statins: role of nitric oxide, peroxynitrite and haem oxygenase‐1
Authors: Heeba G , Moselhy ME , Hassan M , Khalifa M , Gryglewski R , Malinski T
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose:  The pleiotropic effects of HMG‐CoA inhibitors (statins), which include anti‐inflammation, antioxidation and immunomodulation, are not yet fully understood. The present study was designed to elucidate the role of nitric oxide (NO), peroxynitrite (ONOO‐) and haem oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) in the anti‐atherogenic effect of statins.

Experimental approach:  Normal and atherosclerotic New Zealand rabbits were treated with atorvastatin or simvastatin in the presence or absence of inhibitors and promoters of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and HO‐1. NO and ONOO‐ released from isolated aortae by calcium ionophore were measured with nanosensors placed 6 ± 2 nm from aortic endothelium. Expression of eNOS and HO‐1 protein, HO activity, plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and vessel wall thickness were also measured.

Key results:  Hypercholesterolaemia decreased eNOS expression by 31 ± 3%, decreased NO (230 ± 16 vs. 433 ± 17 nmol·L−1 control) and increased cytotoxic ONOO‐ (299 ± 15 vs. 187 ± 11 nmol·L−1 control). The concentration ratio of [NO]/[ONOO‐] decreased from 2.3 ± 0.1 (normal) to 0.7 ± 0.1 indicating an increase of nitroxidative stress in atherosclerotic endothelium. Expression of HO‐1 protein increased by 20 ± 8% in atherosclerosis and further increased (about 30%) after treatment with statins. Statins partially restored the [NO]/[ONOO‐] balance (1.5 ± 0.1 for atorvastatin and 1.4 ± 0.1 simvastatin), decreased MDA and wall thickening. Promoters of eNOS and HO‐1 (L‐arginine and haemin) ameliorated the [NO]/[ONOO‐] ratio while their inhibitors (L‐NAME or tin‐protoporphyrin) showed no improvement in these ratio.

Conclusions and implications:  Atherosclerosis induced an endothelial [NO]/[ONOO‐] balance indicative of endothelial dysfunction. Statins showed anti‐atherosclerotic effects mediated by HO‐1/eNOS, restoring the [NO]/[ONOO‐] imbalance and reducing lipid peroxidation.