bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Striatal dopamine D2/D3 receptor availability correlates with individual response characteristics to pain
Authors: Pertovaara Antti , Martikainen Ilkka K. , Hagelberg Nora , Mansikka Heikki , Någren Kjell , Hietala Jarmo , Scheinin Harry 
Published: September 2004

AbstractWe studied in healthy humans the contribution of cerebral dopamine D2/D3 receptors to individual differences in response characteristics to painful stimulation. Positron emission tomography was used to measure the dopamine D2/D3 binding potential (D2/D3 BP) with [11C]raclopride in the striatum (n = 8) and with [11C]FLB 457 in the extrastriatal regions (n = 11). Sensitivity to cutaneous heat pain was assessed by a traditional threshold method and by an analysis based on the signal detection theory which allows the separation of an individual subject's discriminative capacity from the response criterion, i.e. the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve provides a measure of the sensory discriminability (sensory factor) and the response criterion gives an estimate of the subject's response bias or attitude (nonsensory factor). The pain threshold and response criterion were inversely correlated with the D2/D3 BP in the right putamen, whereas the discriminative capacity was not significantly correlated with the D2/D3 BP in any brain region. The correlation of the D2/D3 BP in the putamen with the pain threshold and the subject's response criterion may rather be explained by a dopaminergic effect on nonsensory factors determining the subject's attitude towards pain than by a dopaminergic effect on the subject's discriminative capacity. Alternatively, striatal dopamine D2/D3 receptors could control a modulatory pathway producing a parallel shift in the stimulus–response function for sensory signals, mimicking a change in the subject's response criterion.
Specific and nonspecific effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation on picture–word verification
Authors: Dräger Bianca , Breitenstein Caterina , Helmke Ulf , Kamping Sandra , Knecht Stefan 
Published: September 2004

AbstractRepetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can temporarily impair or improve performance, including language processing. It remains unclear, however, (i) which scalp sites are most appropriate to achieve the desired effects and (ii) which experimental setups produce facilitation or inhibition of language functions. We assessed the effects of TMS at different stimulation sites on picture–word verification in healthy volunteers. Twenty healthy volunteers with left language lateralization, as determined by functional transcranial Dopplersonography, performed picture–word verification prior to and after rTMS (1 Hz for 600 s at 110% of subjects' resting motor thresholds). Stimulation sites were the classical language areas (Broca's and Wernicke's), their homolog brain regions of the right hemisphere, and the occipital cortex. Additionally, sham stimulation over Broca's area was applied in a subsample of 11 subjects. As a control task, 10 volunteers performed a colour–tone matching task under the same experimental conditions. There was a general nonspecific arousal effect for both verum and sham TMS for both the picture–word verification and for the control task. However, superimposed there were opposite effects on picture–word verification for stimulation of Wernicke's area and Broca's area, namely a relative inhibition in the case of Wernicke's area and a relative facilitation in the case of Broca's area. These results demonstrate that low frequency rTMS has both general arousing effects and domain‐specific effects.
Dual effects of gabapentin and pregabalin on glutamate release at rat entorhinal synapses in vitro
Authors: Cunningham Mark O. , Woodhall Gavin L. , Thompson Sarah E. , Dooley David J. , Jones Roland S. G. 
Published: September 2004

AbstractWe have recently shown that the anticonvulsant drugs phenytoin, lamotrigine and sodium valproate all reduce the release of glutamate at synapses in the entorhinal cortex in vitro. In the present investigation we determined whether this property was shared by gabapentin and pregabalin, using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings of excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in layer V neurons in slices of rat entorhinal cortex. Both drugs reduced the amplitude and increased the paired‐pulse ratio of EPSCs evoked by electrical stimulation of afferent inputs, suggesting a presynaptic effect to reduce glutamate release. The frequency of spontaneous EPSCs (sEPSCs) was concurrently reduced by GBP, further supporting a presynaptic action. There was no significant change in amplitude although a slight reduction was seen, particularly with gabapentin, which may reflect a reduction in the number of larger amplitude sEPSCs. When activity‐independent miniature EPSCs were recorded in the presence of tetrodotoxin, both drugs continued to reduce the frequency of events with no change in amplitude. The reduction in frequency induced by gabapentin or pregabalin was blocked by application of the l‐amino acid transporter substrate l‐isoleucine. The results show that gabapentin and pregabalin, like other anticonvulsants, reduce glutamate release at cortical synapses. It is possible that this reduction is a combination of two effects: a reduction of activity‐dependent release possibly via interaction with P/Q‐type voltage‐gated Ca channels, and a second action, as yet unidentified, occurring downstream of Ca influx into the presynaptic terminals.
The effect of PARP inhibitor on ischaemic cell death, its related inflammation and survival signals
Authors: Koh Seong‐Ho , Park Younjoo , Song Chi Won , Kim Jun Gyou , Kim Kisok , Kim Juhan , Kim Myung‐Ho , Lee Seung Ro , Kim Dong Won , Yu Hyun‐Jeung , Chang Dae‐il , Hwang Se Jin , Kim Seung Hyun 
Published: September 2004

AbstractPoly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) plays an important role in ischaemic cell death, and 3‐aminobenzamide (3‐AB), one of the PARP inhibitors, has a protective effect on ischaemic stroke. We investigated the neuroprotective mechanisms of 3‐AB in ischaemic stroke. The occlusion of middle cerebral artery (MCA) was made in 170 Sprague–Dawley rats, and reperfusion was performed 2 h after the occlusion. Another 10 Sprague–Dawley rats were used for sham operation. 3‐AB was administered to 85 rats 10 min before the occlusion [3‐AB group (n = 85) vs. control group without 3‐AB (n = 85)]. Infarct volume and water content were measured, brain magnetic resonance imaging, terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase (TdT)‐mediated dUTP‐biotin nick end‐labelling (TUNEL) and Cresyl violet staining were performed, and immunoreactivities (IRs) of poly(ADP‐ribose) polymer (PAR), cleaved caspase‐3, CD11b, intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), phospho‐Akt (pAkt) and phospho‐glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (pGSK‐3) were compared in the peri‐infarcted region of the 3‐AB group and its corresponding ischaemic region of the control group at 2, 8, 24 and 72 h after the occlusion. In the 3‐AB group, the infarct volume and the water content were decreased (about 45% and 3.6%, respectively, at 24 h), the number of TUNEL‐positive cells was decreased (about 36% at 24 h), and the IRs of PAR, cleaved caspase‐3, CD11b, ICAM‐1 and COX‐2 were significantly reduced, while the IRs of pAkt and pGSK‐3 were increased. These results suggest that 3‐AB treatment could reduce the infarct volume by reducing ischaemic cell death, its related inflammation and increasing survival signals. The inhibition of PARP could be another potential neuroprotective strategy in ischaemic stroke.
Trade Policy and Access to Retail Distribution
Authors: Richardson Martin 
Published: September 2004

AbstractThe paper develops a model in which foreign and domestic manufacturers producing differentiated goods sell through spatially differentiated retailers. There is free entry into retailing but access to the retail distribution network (by manufacturers) may be controlled. The author considers a domestic vertical control mechanism in which domestic retailers carry only domestic brands (termed “domestic dealing”) and compares the use of tariffs on imports and the enforcement of domestic dealing restrictions as means of increasing domestic welfare. It is shown that domestic dealing will always be prohibited when tariffs can be used. When trade policy is not available, however, domestic dealing may be desirable.
A Parameterized Representation of Uncertain Conceptual Spaces
Authors: Ahlqvist Ola 
Published: September 2004

AbstractMost conceptual modeling in geographic information science to date has used a symbolic approach with little or no recognition of the semantic uncertainty often found in geographic concepts. This work describes a concept model based on parameterized concept descriptions that uses a spatial metaphor, the conceptual space, as an organizing structure (Gärdenfors 2000). This cognitive theory of conceptual spaces is combined with a formal representation of semantic uncertainty based on rough fuzzy sets. The conceptual space then represents each concept as a collection of rough fuzzy property definitions with associated salience weights, where a property itself can be treated as a special case of a concept. Instead of explicitly defining concept hierarchies, we can allow different conceptual structures to emerge through measures of concept inclusion and similarity. A land use/land cover example demonstrates how the model represents concepts, concept similarity, hierarchical structures and the context dependence of concepts. The final section of the paper points to the need for further studies of context effects, concept similarity measures, and uncertainty representation using the proposed model.
Weak Identification of Forward‐looking Models in Monetary Economics*
Authors: Mavroeidis Sophocles 
Published: September 2004

AbstractRecently, single‐equation estimation by the generalized method of moments (GMM) has become popular in the monetary economics literature, for estimating forward‐looking models with rational expectations. We discuss a method for analysing the empirical identification of such models that exploits their dynamic structure and the assumption of rational expectations. This allows us to judge the reliability of the resulting GMM estimation and inference and reveals the potential sources of weak identification. With reference to the New Keynesian Phillips curve of Galí and Gertler [Journal of Monetary Economics (1999) Vol. 44, 195] and the forward‐looking Taylor rules of Clarida, Galí and Gertler [Quarterly Journal of Economics (2000) Vol. 115, 147], we demonstrate that the usual ‘weak instruments’ problem can arise naturally, when the predictable variation in inflation is small relative to unpredictable future shocks (news). Hence, we conclude that those models are less reliably estimated over periods when inflation has been under effective policy control.
Econometric Evaluation of the New Keynesian Phillips Curve*
Authors: Bårdsen Gunnar , Jansen Eilev S. , Nymoen Ragnar 
Published: September 2004

AbstractWe give an appraisal of the New Keynesian Phillips curve (NPCM) as an empirical model of European inflation. The favourable evidence for NPCMs on euro‐area data reported in earlier studies is shown to depend on specific choices made about estimation methodology. The NPCM can be re‐interpreted as a highly restricted equilibrium correction model. We also report the outcome of tests based on variable addition and encompassing of existing models. The results show that economists should not accept the NPCM too readily.
Beyond toleration: privacy, citizenship and sexual minorities in England and Wales
Authors: McGhee Derek 
Published: September 2004

AbstractThis paper examines two significant moments in sexual minority citizenship in England and Wales in relation to one of the Marshallian sets of rights, namely, civil or legal rights, focusing specifically on the Sex Offences legislation and policing practices. The first moment that will be examined here is the process whereby homosexual acts were decriminalized in the 1950s and 1960s; here special attention will be paid to the recommendations made by the Wolfenden Committee. The second moment is one we are currently experiencing, which is associated with the inclusive policing of sexual minority communities (especially lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities) under the provisions of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 and in the review of Sex Offences, especially in the consultation paper (Home Office 2000) and White Paper (Home Office 2002) associated with this review. Privacy and toleration dominate the first moment, at the same time it shall be demonstrated that privacy is also central to the British Sexual Citizenship literatures that have emerged in sociology in the post‐Wolfenden context. However, as the title suggests, the second moment under examination points to the emergence of a rather more extensive sexual minority citizenship beyond the boundaries of ‘homosexual privacy’ (which British Sexual Citizenship Studies is not currently engaging with) and perhaps even beyond the boundaries of toleration through ever more ‘inclusive’ policing strategies and through the review of sex offences in which many discriminatory laws are being ‘de‐homosexualized’.
Prevalence of patients subjected to constraint in Norwegian nursing homes
Authors: Kirkevold Øyvind , Engedal Knut 
Published: September 2004

Background:  A recent questionnaire showed that different kinds of constraint such as physical restraint, electronic surveillance, use of force or pressure in medical treatment and in activities of daily living (ADL) are frequently used in Norwegian nursing homes. The study did not include information at patient level, and except for studies about physical restraints, we have not found any studies reporting the prevalence of various forms of constraint.Aim:  To describe the prevalence of various types of constraint in Norwegian nursing homes.Materials and method:  A structured interview was carried out with the primary carers of a random sample of 1501 patients from 222 nursing‐home wards in 54 municipalities representing all five health regions in Norway. Data were collected from regular units (RUs) and special care units (SCUs) for persons with dementia. Episodes of constraint during 1 week were recorded. Five main groups of constraint were aggregated, mechanical restraint, nonmechanical restraint, electronic surveillance, force or pressure in medical examination or treatment and force or pressure in ADL.Results:  Patients (36.7%) in RUs and 45.0% of the patients in SCUs were subjected to any constraint. Most frequent was use of mechanical restraint (23.3% in RUs; 12.8% in SCUs) and use of force or pressure in ADL (20.9% in SCUs; 16.6% in RUs). Use of force or pressure in medical examination or treatment was more frequent used in SCUs (19.1%) compared with RUs (13.5%). Nonmechanical restraint was less frequently used (8.3% in SCUs; 3.0% in RUs) and electronic surveillance was seldom used (7.2% in RUs; 0.9% in SCUs).Conclusion:  The use of constraint is a problem in Norwegian nursing homes. Studies are needed to learn more about why constraint is used, and if there is patient or ward characteristics that can explain the use of constraint.
Migraine and chronic daily headache management: a qualitative study of patients’ perceptions
Authors: Peters Michele , Abu‐Saad Huda Huijer , Vydelingum Vasso , Dowson Andrew , Murphy Margaret 
Published: September 2004

Aim:  The aim of the study was to gain insight into the patients’ perceptions of migraine and chronic daily headache (CDH) management.Methods:  Thirteen, semi‐structured and individual interviews with seven migraine and five CDH patients were carried out and analysed in QSR NUD*IST5, using a grounded theory methodology.Results:  The participants described using five areas of management: 1) health care use; 2) medication use; 3) alternative therapies; 4) social support; and 5) lifestyle and self‐help. The participants described their expectations, preferences, worries and (dis)satisfaction in relation to these five areas of management. The participants adapted headache management to suit their needs and preferences, making migraine and CDH management highly individual and giving the headache patient a central role within their own care.Conclusion:  Health care is changing towards a greater involvement of the patients in their own care. Therefore, it is important to increase understanding of the patients’ perspective of chronic diseases, including migraine and CDH. The results from this study inform health care professionals of the range of their patients’ needs and preferences. This knowledge can be used to shape clinical practice, to develop patient education programmes and to further research efforts into issues that are important to the headache patient.
Testing of an audit instrument for the nursing discharge note in the patient record
Authors: Larson Jenny , Björvell Catrin , Billing Ewa , Wredling Regina 
Published: September 2004

Objectives.  This study validates and tests the reliability of an audit instrument constructed to evaluate the content of nursing discharge notes.Design.  Instrument validation and reliability testing.Main outcome measures.  Factor analysis identifying structure through data summarization of the instrument, association between scores in test–retest, and interrater reliability between auditors.Results.  Validity: Three factors emerged in the factor analysis: ‘General information’, ‘Planning’, and ‘Assessment’, accounting for 76% of the variance regarding the quantitative aspect and 79% of the variance regarding the qualitative aspect, confirming the distinctiveness. Reliability: The Spearman rank‐order correlation coefficient calculated per item in the test–retest ranged from 0.72 to 1.0 (p = 0.01). The correlation coefficient for the total score was 0.98 (p = 0.01). There were no differences in item scores between the test and retest in 93% of the comparisons (n = 486). Between the two auditors, the Spearman rank‐order correlation coefficient in each item ranged from 0.83 to 1.00 (p = 0.01) and weighted kappa values from 0.70 to 1.00 with the exception of one item in both calculations. The correlation coefficient for the auditors’ total score was 0.99 (p = 0.01). The Student's paired t‐test comparing the two auditors’ mean values in five different parts of the instrument showed no significant differences in score.Conclusion.  The Cat‐ch‐Ing EPI instrument shows a high reliability and validity as an audit instrument to evaluate the content of nursing discharge notes.
Radical changes in Islamic glass technology: evidence for conservatism and experimentation with new glass recipes from early and middle Islamic Raqqa, Syria*
Authors: Henderson J. , McLoughlin S. D. , McPhail D. S. 
Published: September 2004

The chemical analysis of excavated glass fragments from dated archaeological contexts in Raqqa, Syria, has provided a detailed picture of the chemical compositions of artefacts deriving from eighth to ninth and 11th century glassmaking and glassworking activities. Evidence for primary glass production has been found at three excavated sites, of eighth to ninth, 11th and 12th century dates; the first two are discussed here. The 2 km long industrial complex at al‐Raqqa was associated with an urban landscape consisting of two Islamic cities (al‐Raqqa and al‐Rafika) and a series of palace complexes. The glass fused and worked there was presumably for local as well as for regional consumption. Al‐Raqqa currently appears to have produced the earliest well‐dated production on record in the Middle East of an Islamic high‐magnesia glass based on an alkaline plant ash flux and quartz. An eighth to ninth century late ‘Roman’/Byzantine soda–lime recipe of natron and sand begins to be replaced in the eighth to ninth century by a plant ash – quartz Islamic soda–lime composition. By the 11th century, this process was nearly complete. The early Islamic natron glass compositional group from al‐Raqqa shows very little spread in values, indicating a repeatedly well‐controlled process with the use of chemically homogeneous raw materials. A compositionally more diffuse range of eighth to ninth century plant ash glass compositions have been identified. One is not only distinct from established groups of plant ash and natron glasses, but is believed to be the result of experimentation with new raw material combinations. Compositional analysis of primary production waste including furnace glass (raw glass adhering to furnace brick) shows that contemporary glasses of three distinct plant ash types based on various combinations of plant ash, quartz and sand were being made in al‐Raqqa during the late eighth to ninth centuries. This is a uniquely wide compositional range from an ancient glass production site, offering new insights into the complexity of Islamic glass technology at a time of change and innovation.
Risk factors for oral cancer in newly diagnosed patients aged 45 years and younger: a case–control study in Southern England
Authors: Llewellyn C. D. , Johnson N. W. , Warnakulasuriya K. A. A. S. 
Published: September 2004

Background:  This case–control study aimed to identify the risk factors for oral cancer in patients aged 45 years and under.Methods:  Patients were recruited over a 3‐year period between 1999 and 2001 from 14 hospitals in the southeast of England, UK.Results:  Fifty‐three (80%) newly diagnosed patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oral cavity participated. The mean age of cases at diagnosis was 38.5 years (SD = 7.0) and 53% were male. Patients were interviewed about main risk factors of tobacco, alcohol, cannabis and their consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables in the past. Ninety‐one matched control patients were also recruited. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were obtained from adjusted conditional logistic analyses. Significantly elevated ORs were evidenced amongst males who had started to smoke under the age of 16 years (OR = 14.3; 95% CI: 1.1–178.8). A significant reduction in risk was also shown for ex‐smokers (OR = 0.2; 95% CI: 0.5–0.8). Consumption of alcohol in excess of recommended amounts also produced an eightfold risk in males (OR = 8.1; 95% CI: 1.6–40.1) and over a fourfold risk of oral cancer from the consumption of excessive amounts of alcohol and having ever smoked (OR = 4.4; 95% CI: 1.1–17.7).Conclusion:  The study shows that the traditional behavioural risk factors are present in younger people diagnosed with oral cancer. The relatively short duration of exposure and the substantial number of cases without any known risk factors, particularly amongst females, however, suggest that factors other than tobacco and alcohol may also be implicated in the development of oral cancer in a proportion of these younger patients.