bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Western Snowy Plovers Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus select nesting substrates that enhance egg crypsis and improve nest survival
Authors: COLWELL MARK A. , MEYER JASON J. , HARDY MICHAEL A. , MCALLISTER SEAN E. , TRANSOU AMBER N. , LEVALLEY RON R. , DINSMORE STEPHEN J.
Published: February 2011

Predation is an important cause of nest failure for many birds and has shaped the life‐history characteristics of many species, especially ground‐nesting shorebirds. We examined nesting success, causes of clutch failure and nest survival in relation to variation in substrate characteristics in a colour‐marked population of Western Snowy Plovers Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus breeding on riverine gravel bars in coastal northern California. Plovers experienced higher nesting success on gravel bars than on nearby beaches, which were characterized by more homogeneous, sandy substrates. On gravel bars, Plovers nested in habitats characterized by large, heterogeneous substrates, with more egg‐sized stones, compared with random sites. Egg crypsis, as indexed by time required of a naïve observer to detect a nest, increased with number of egg‐sized substrates. Nest survival correlated negatively with heterogeneity of substrates and positively with the number of egg‐sized stones. Consistently high nesting success of Plovers on gravel bars indicates that this high‐quality habitat deserves special management considerations given the species’ threatened status.
PPARα mediates the anti‐inflammatory effect of simvastatin in an experimental model of zymosan‐induced multiple organ failure
Authors: Rinaldi Barbara , Donniacuo Maria , Esposito Emanuela , Capuano Annalisa , Sodano Loredana , Mazzon Emanuela , Di Palma Donatella , Paterniti Irene , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Rossi Francesco
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Zymosan‐induced non‐septic shock is a multi‐factorial pathology that involves several organs including the kidneys, liver and lungs. Its complexity and diversity presents a continuing therapeutic challenge. Given their pleiotropic effect, statins could be beneficial in non‐septic shock. One of the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti‐inflammatory effect of statins involves the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) α. We used a zymosan‐induced non‐septic shock experimental model to investigate the role of PPARα in the anti‐inflammatory effects of simvastatin.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Effects of simvastatin (5 or 10 mg·kg−1 i.p.) were analysed in PPARα knock‐out (KO) and PPARα wild type (WT) mice after zymosan or vehicle administration. Organ injury in lung, liver, kidney and intestine was evaluated by immunohistology. PPARα mRNA expression and nuclear factor‐κB activation were evaluated in all experimental groups, 18 h after study onset. Cytokine levels were measured in plasma, and nitrite/nitrate in plasma and peritoneal exudate. Nitric oxide synthase, nitrotyrosine and poly ADP‐ribose were localized by immunohistochemical methods.

KEY RESULTS Simvastatin significantly and dose‐dependently increased the zymosan‐induced expression of PPARα levels in all tissues analysed. It also dose‐dependently reduced systemic inflammation and the organ injury induced by zymosan in lung, liver, intestine and kidney. These effects were observed in PPARαWT mice and in PPARαKO mice.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Simvastatin protected against the molecular and cellular damage caused by systemic inflammation in our experimental model. Our results also provide new information regarding the role of PPARα in the anti‐inflammatory effects of statins.
20‐Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid inhibits ATP‐induced COX‐2 expression via peroxisome proliferator activator receptor‐α in vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Liang Chan‐Jung , Tseng Ching‐Ping , Yang Chuen‐Mao , Ma Yunn‐Hwa
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

20‐Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20‐HETE), formed from arachidonate by cytochrome P450, regulates vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) function. Because 20‐HETE may activate peroxisome proliferator activator receptors (PPARs) and may participate in inflammatory responses, we asked whether 20‐HETE may inhibit cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) expression by activating PPARs in VSMC.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Quiescent neonatal VSMC (R22D cell line), were incubated with 20‐HETE, synthetic ligands of PPARs, or inhibitors of the extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK1/2), c‐jun N‐terminal kinase and the transcription factor activated protein‐1 before adding ATPγS. mRNA and protein expression of COX‐2 and the promoter luciferase activity of COX‐2 and PPAR response element were determined.

KEY RESULTS

Pretreatment with 20‐HETE (5–10 µM) significantly inhibited ATPγS‐induced COX‐2 mRNA and protein expression in VSMC. The inhibitory effect of 20‐HETE on COX‐2 expression was mimicked by WY14643, a PPARα ligand and inhibited by MK886, a PPARα inhibitor or by transfection of shRNA for PPARα. Both 20‐HETE and WY14643 significantly increased the PPAR‐response element luciferase activity. Furthermore, ATPγS‐induced activation of the COX‐2 promoter containing the activated protein‐1 site was also inhibited by pretreatment with 20‐HETE, which was reversed by MK886 or by transfection with shRNA for PPARα.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The PPARα may mediate the inhibitory effects of 20‐HETE on COX‐2 expression through a negative cross‐talk between PPARα and the COX‐2 promoter.
Differential reactivity of human mammary artery and saphenous vein to prostaglandin E2: Implication for cardiovascular grafts
Authors: Foudi N , Kotelevets L , Gomez I , Louedec L , Longrois D , Chastre E , Norel X
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Human internal mammary arteries (IMA) and saphenous veins (SV) are frequently used for coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Intra‐ and postoperatively, the bypass grafts are exposed to inflammatory conditions, under which there is a striking increase in the synthesis of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). In this context, the physiological response of these vascular grafts to PGE2 is highly relevant. The aim of this study was thus to characterize the PGE2 receptor subtypes (EP1, EP2, EP3 or EP4) involved in modulation of the vascular tone in these two vessels.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Rings of IMA and SV were prepared from 48 patients. The rings were mounted in organ baths for isometric recording of tension, and a pharmacological study was performed, together with associated reverse transcriptase PCR and immunohistochemistry experiments.

KEY RESULTS

PGE2 induced contractions of IMA (Emax= 1.43 ± 0.20 g; pEC50= 7.50 ± 0.10); contractions were also observed with the EP3 receptor agonists, sulprostone, 17‐phenyl‐PGE2, misoprostol or ONO‐AE‐248. In contrast, PGE2 induced relaxation of the precontracted SV (Emax=–0.22 ± 0.02 g; pEC50= 7.14 ± 0.09), as did the EP4 receptor agonist, ONO‐AE1‐329. These results were confirmed by the use of selective EP receptor antagonists (GW627368X, L‐826266, ONO‐8713, SC‐51322) and by molecular biology and immunostaining.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

PGE2 induced potent and opposite effects on the human vascular segments used for grafting, namely vasoconstriction of the IMA and vasodilatation of the SV via EP3 and EP4 receptors respectively. These observations suggest that EP3 and EP4 receptors could constitute therapeutic targets to increase vascular graft patency.
Telmisartan, ramipril and their combination improve endothelial function in different tissues in a murine model of cholesterol‐induced atherosclerosis
Authors: Schlimmer N , Kratz M , Böhm M , Baumhäkel M
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Erectile dysfunction correlates with cardiovascular disease and its common risk factors due to the development of endothelial dysfunction. Positive effects on endothelial and erectile function have been described for substances inhibiting the renin‐angiotensin‐system. Here, we investigated in an atherosclerosis model, whether telmisartan (angiotensin receptor blocker) and ramipril (angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor) are equivalent or the combination of both is superior in improving endothelial function in the aorta and the corpus cavernosum and in reducing atherosclerosis.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Wild‐type (WT, C57/B6) and apolipoprotein‐E‐deficient (ApoE−/−) mice were treated with a cholesterol‐rich diet for 8 weeks. ApoE−/− mice were supplemented with either telmisartan (20 mg·kg−1·day−1), ramipril (2.5 mg·kg−1·day−1) or the combination thereof.

KEY RESULTS

Systolic blood pressure significantly decreased in treatment groups (P < 0.001), with significantly smaller reduction under ramipril monotherapy (P < 0.05). Endothelial function (assessed by pharmacological stimulation of aortic rings and corpus cavernosum in organ bath chambers) was impaired in ApoE−/− mice compared to WT animals, which was improved by all three treatments to a comparable extent (P < 0.05). Atherosclerotic lesion size in the ascending aorta and aortic sinus (P < 0.001), the amount of lipid peroxides in cavernosal and aortic tissue (P < 0.05) and free radical load (dihydroethidium‐stain) (P < 0.05) were enhanced in untreated ApoE−/− mice in comparison to WT animals and were significantly reduced by either treatment. In penile tissue, expression of eNOS could be restored by renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system blockade.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Telmisartan and ramipril significantly improved endothelial function of aortic and cavernosal tissues in ApoE−/− via reduction of oxidative stress. Combination of both agents does not enhance beneficial effects significantly.
Significantly reduced cytochrome P450 3A4 expression and activity in liver from humans with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Dostalek Miroslav , Court Michael H. , Yan Bingfang , Akhlaghi Fatemeh
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Patients with diabetes mellitus require pharmacotherapy with numerous medications. However, the effect of diabetes on drug biotransformation is not well understood. Our goal was to investigate the effect of diabetes on liver cytochrome P450 3As, the most abundant phase I drug‐metabolizing enzymes in humans.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Human liver microsomal fractions (HLMs) were prepared from diabetic (n= 12) and demographically matched nondiabetic (n= 12) donors, genotyped for CYP3A4*1B and CYP3A5*3 polymorphisms. Cytochrome P450 3A4, 3A5 and 2E1 mRNA expression, protein level and enzymatic activity were compared between the two groups.

KEY RESULTS Midazolam 1′‐ or 4‐hydroxylation and testosterone 6β‐hydroxylation, catalyzed by P450 3A, were markedly reduced in diabetic HLMs, irrespective of genotype. Significantly lower P450 3A4 protein and comparable mRNA levels were observed in diabetic HLMs. In contrast, neither P450 3A5 protein level nor mRNA expression differed significantly between the two groups. Concurrently, we have observed increased P450 2E1 protein level and higher chlorzoxazone 6‐hydroxylation activity in diabetic HLMs.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These studies indicate that diabetes is associated with a significant decrease in hepatic P450 3A4 enzymatic activity and protein level. This finding could be clinically relevant for diabetic patients who have additional comorbidities and are receiving multiple medications. To further characterize the effect of diabetes on P450 3A4 activity, a well‐controlled clinical study in diabetic patients is warranted.
Distinct tachykinin NK1 receptor function in primate nucleus tractus solitarius neurons is dysregulated after second‐hand tobacco smoke exposure
Authors: Sekizawa Shin‐ichi , Joad Jesse P , Pinkerton Kent E , Bonham Ann C
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Second‐hand tobacco smoke (SHS) exposure in children increases the risk of asthma and sudden infant death syndrome. Epidemiological and experimental data have suggested SHS can alter neuroplasticity in the CNS, associated with substance P. We hypothesized that exposure to SHS in young primates changed the effect of substance P on the plasticity of neurons in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), where airway sensory information is first processed in the CNS.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Thirteen‐month‐old rhesus monkeys were exposed to filtered air (FA, n= 5) or SHS (n= 5) for >6 months from 50 days of their fetal age. Whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings were performed on NTS neurons in brainstem slices from these animals to record the intrinsic cell excitability in the absence or presence of the NK1 receptor antagonist, SR140333 (3 µM).

KEY RESULTS

Neurons were electrophysiologically classified based on their spiking onset from a hyperpolarized membrane potential into two phenotypes: rapid‐onset spiking (RS) and delayed‐onset spiking (DS) types. In RS neurons, SR140333 reduced the spiking response, similarly in both FA‐ and SHS‐exposed animals. In DS neurons, SR140333 almost abolished the spiking response in FA‐exposed animals, but had no effect in SHS‐exposed animals.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The contribution of NK1 receptors to cell excitability depended on firing phenotype of primate NTS neurons and was disrupted by SHS exposure, specifically in DS neurons. Our findings reveal a novel NK1 receptor function in the primate brainstem and support the hypothesis that chronic exposure to SHS in children causes tachykinin‐related neuroplastic changes in the CNS.
Balloon catheter injury abolishes phenylephrine‐induced relaxation in the rat contralateral carotid
Authors: Pernomian L , Gomes MS , de Oliveira AM
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The consequences of compensatory responses to balloon catheter injury in rat carotid artery, on phenylephrine‐induced relaxation and contraction in the contralateral carotid artery were studied.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Relaxation and contraction concentration–response curves for phenylephrine were obtained for contralateral carotid arteries in the presence of indomethacin (COX inhibitor), SC560 (COX‐1 inhibitor), SC236 (COX‐2 inhibitor) or 4‐hydroxytetramethyl‐L‐piperidine‐1‐oxyl (tempol; superoxide dismutase mimetic). Reactive oxygen species were measured in carotid artery endothelial cells fluorimetrically with dihydroethidium.

KEY RESULTS

Phenylephrine‐induced relaxation was abolished in contralateral carotid arteries from operated rats (Emax= 0.01 ± 0.004 g) in relation to control (Emax= 0.18 ± 0.005 g). Phenylephrine‐induced contractions were increased in contralateral arteries (Emax= 0.54 ± 0.009 g) in relation to control (Emax= 0.38 ± 0.014 g). SC236 restored phenylephrine‐induced relaxation (Emax= 0.17 ± 0.004 g) and contraction (Emax= 0.34 ± 0.018 g) in contralateral arteries. Tempol restored phenylephrine‐induced relaxation (Emax= 0.19 ± 0.012 g) and contraction (Emax= 0.42 ± 0.014 g) in contralateral arteries, while apocynin did not alter either relaxation (Emax= 0.01 ± 0.004 g) or contraction (Emax= 0.54 ± 0.009 g). Dihydroethidium fluorescence was increased in contralateral samples (18 882 ± 435 U) in relation to control (10 455 ± 303 U). SC236 reduced the fluorescence in contralateral samples (8250 ± 365 U).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Balloon catheter injury abolished phenylephrine‐induced relaxation and increased phenylephrine‐induced contraction in contralateral carotid arteries, through O2‐ derived from COX‐2.
Cannabinoid receptor signalling in neurodegenerative diseases: a potential role for membrane fluidity disturbance
Authors: Maccarrone M , Bernardi G , Agrò A Finazzi , Centonze D
Published: February 2011

Type‐1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1) is the most abundant G‐protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR) in the brain. CB1 and its endogenous agonists, the so‐called ‘endocannabinoids (eCBs)’, belong to an ancient neurosignalling system that plays important functions in neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory disorders like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis. For this reason, research on the therapeutic potential of drugs modulating the endogenous tone of eCBs is very intense. Several GPCRs reside within subdomains of the plasma membranes that contain high concentrations of cholesterol: the lipid rafts. Here, the hypothesis that changes in membrane fluidity alter function of the endocannabinoid system, as well as progression of particular neurodegenerative diseases, is described. To this end, the impact of membrane cholesterol on membrane properties and hence on neurodegenerative diseases, as well as on CB1 signalling in vitro and on CB1‐dependent neurotransmission within the striatum, is discussed. Overall, present evidence points to the membrane environment as a critical regulator of signal transduction triggered by CB1, and calls for further studies aimed at better clarifying the contribution of membrane lipids to eCBs signalling. The results of these investigations might be exploited also for the development of novel therapeutics able to combat disorders associated with abnormal activity of CB1.

LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed issue on Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine. To view the other articles in this issue visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2011.163.issue‐7
Avoiding a Cutdown—Use of the Transcatheter Extractor in Removal of Tunneled Dialysis Catheters
Authors: Niyyar Vandana Dua , Work Jack
Published: February 2011

The purpose of our study was to evaluate the use of a transcatheter extractor (TCE) device in removing cuffed tunneled dialysis catheters without a surgical cutdown. We report eight cases where a TCE was used to successfully remove cuffed tunneled dialysis catheters through the exit site that would have otherwise required a second incision. The cuff was above the clavicle in all cases and varied 3–5 cm from the exit site. The method included inserting the device over the catheter through the exit site and engaging it over the cuff. A to‐and‐fro motion was then used in the same plane as the catheter to dissect the cuff from the surrounding tissue. Once the cuff was freed, the catheter was removed easily without resistance. The fibrous cuff was removed intact in all cases. We conclude that the use of this device may help avoid a cutdown and minimize trauma to the patient. It is an effective technique to remove tunneled dialysis catheters and is particularly useful in catheters with ingrown cuffs further from the exit site.
Do Infertile Women and Government Staff Differ in the Evaluation of Infertility‐related Web Sites?
Authors: Takabayashi Chikako , Shimada Keiko
Published: February 2011

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the evaluation of local government Web sites carrying information on infertility by infertile women and by government staff. In particular, the study investigated whether the women and staff differed with respect to the information they rate as important and their self‐reported satisfaction with the Web sites.

Design and Sample: Cross‐sectional descriptive study. Sixty‐two local government staff members, of whom 46 were public health nurses managing subsidy programs for infertility treatment in the Hokuriku region of Japan, and 84 infertile women attending local clinics.

Measures: We measured the level of satisfaction with the local government Web sites and perceptions about the importance of each type of content. Data were descriptively analyzed, as well as by factor analysis and multiple regression analysis.

Results: Local government Web sites were analyzed with respect to information about the treatment, details of the subsidy program, psychological support, and procedures for making a subsidy application.

Conclusions: The women rated information on the treatment and details of the subsidy programs as important. There was no difference of satisfaction with the Web sites between the infertile women and the staff. Local government staff need to provide reliable data for women who are seeking information on infertility treatment.
A Syndemic Model of Substance Abuse, Intimate Partner Violence, HIV Infection, and Mental Health Among Hispanics
Authors: González‐Guarda Rosa M. , Florom‐Smith Aubrey L. , Thomas Tainayah
Published: February 2011

ABSTRACTHispanics are disproportionately affected by substance abuse, HIV infection, intimate partner violence, and mental health conditions. To address health disparities among Hispanics and other vulnerable groups, it is necessary to understand the complex interactions between health conditions clustering together (e.g., substance abuse, intimate partner violence, and HIV) and the social ecology in which these conditions exist. A syndemic orientation, a consideration of clustering epidemics and common individual, relationship, cultural, and socioenvironmental factors linking these conditions, may be helpful in developing comprehensive models that expand our ability to understand and address health disparities. The purpose of this paper is to introduce a Syndemic Model of Substance Abuse, Intimate Partner Violence, HIV Infection, and Mental Health among Hispanics, and provide evidence from the research literature to support the central relationships and risk and protective factors (i.e., potential links between conditions) depicted by the model. The development and evaluation of interventions aimed at the prevention of substance abuse, intimate partner violence, HIV/AIDS, and mental health problems as a syndemic affecting Hispanics is urgently needed. Public health nurses can initiate this endeavor with the guidance of a Syndemic Model.
Development and In Vitro Characterization of a New Artificial Flow Channel
Authors: Wendt Daniel , Stühle Sebastian , Hou Guojun , Thielmann Matthias , Tsagakis Konstantinos , Wendt Hermann , Jakob Heinz , Kowalczyk Wojciech
Published: February 2011

To date, cardiac valve diseases are considered as a major public health problem and most frequently, the aortic valve is affected. To treat high‐risk patients, catheter‐based techniques have been developed recently, avoiding open heart surgery and/or cardiopulmonary bypass. Although these sophisticated and rapidly emerging catheter‐based technologies do allow a minimally invasive treatment option of high‐risk patients on the one hand, further developments and in vitro testing under physiological conditions are necessary, on the other hand, in order to further optimize them for clinical routines. Therefore, we present the concept of a new multifunctional flow channel, offering (i) the possibility of transapical access; (ii) the simulation of physiological flow conditions; and (iii) the evaluation of the fluid flow by 2D particle image velocimetry within a wide range of parameters.
Alcohol Effects on Cerebral Blood Flow in Subjects With Low and High Responses to Alcohol
Authors: Tolentino Neil J. , Wierenga Christina E. , Hall Shana , Tapert Susan F. , Paulus Martin P. , Liu Thomas T. , Smith Tom L. , Schuckit Marc A.
Published: February 2011

Background:  Although there are multiple indications that alcohol can alter many physiological brain functions, including cerebral blood flow (CBF), studies of the latter have generally used small‐ or modest‐sized samples. Few investigations have yet evaluated how CBF changes after alcohol relate to subsets of subjects with elevated alcoholism risks, such as those with lower levels of response (LR) to alcohol. This study used arterial spin labeling (ASL) after alcohol administration to evaluate a large sample of healthy young men and women with low and high alcohol responses, and, thus, varying risks for alcohol use disorders (AUD).

Methods:  Healthy young adult social drinkers with low and high LR (N = 88, 50% women) matched on demography and drinking histories were imaged with whole‐brain resting ASL ∼1 hour after ingesting ∼3 drinks of ethanol and after a placebo beverage (i.e., 178 ASL sessions). The relationships of CBF changes from placebo to alcohol for subjects with low and high LR were evaluated.

Results:  CBF increased after alcohol when compared to placebo in 5 frontal brain regions. Despite identical blood alcohol concentrations, these increases with alcohol were less prominent in individuals who required more drinks to experience alcohol‐related effects (i.e., had a lower LR to alcohol). The LR group differences remained significant after covarying for recent drinking quantities.

Conclusions:  The results confirm that alcohol intake is associated with acute increases in CBF, particularly in frontal regions. Less intense CBF changes were seen in subjects with a genetically influenced characteristic, a low LR to alcohol, that relates to the future risk of heavy drinking and alcohol problems.
Differential Expression of 14‐3‐3 Isoforms in Human Alcoholic Brain
Authors: MacKay Rachel K. , Colson Natalie J. , Dodd Peter R. , Lewohl Joanne M.
Published: February 2011

Background:  Neuropathological damage as a result of chronic alcohol abuse often results in the impairment of cognitive function. The damage is particularly marked in the frontal cortex. The 14‐3‐3 protein family consists of 7 proteins, β, γ, ε, ζ, η, θ, and σ, encoded by 7 distinct genes. They are highly conserved molecular chaperones with roles in the regulation of metabolism, signal transduction, cell‐cycle control, protein trafficking, and apoptosis. They may also play an important role in neurodegeneration in chronic alcoholism.

Methods:  We used real‐time PCR to measure the expression of 14‐3‐3 mRNA transcripts in both the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and motor cortex of human brains obtained at autopsy.

Results:  We found significantly lower 14‐3‐3β, γ, and θ expression in both cortical areas of alcoholics, but no difference in 14‐3‐3η expression, and higher expression of 14‐3‐3σ in both areas. Levels of 14‐3‐3ζ and ε transcripts were significantly lower only in alcoholic motor cortex.

Conclusions:  Altered 14‐3‐3 expression could contribute to synaptic dysfunction and altered neurotransmission in chronic alcohol misuse by human subjects.
Decision Making and Response Inhibition as Predictors of Heavy Alcohol Use: A Prospective Study
Authors: Goudriaan Anna E. , Grekin Emily R. , Sher Kenneth J.
Published: February 2011

Background:  Very few studies have investigated the “real world” prospective, predictive value of behavioral instruments used in laboratory studies to test decision‐making abilities or impulse control. The current study examines the degree to which 2 commonly used decision‐making/impulse control measures prospectively predict (heavy) alcohol use in a sample of college students.

Methods:  Two hundred healthy young adults (50% women) performed the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) and a StopSignal inhibition task in the second college year. At testing and at the end of the fourth college year, heavy alcohol use was assessed.

Results:  Disadvantageous performance on the IGT was associated with higher scores on a heavy drinking measure and higher quantity/frequency of alcohol use 2 years past neurocognitive testing in male students even after controlling for prior drinking. These results were corrected for heavy drinking and alcohol use in the period before neurocognitive testing. Interactions with gender indicated that this general pattern held for male but not for female students. Level of response inhibition was not associated with either of the alcohol use measures prospectively.

Conclusion:  These findings indicate that a neurocognitive decision‐making task is predictive of maladaptive alcohol use. Advantageous decision makers appear to show adaptive real‐life decision making, changing their drinking habits to the changing challenges of early adulthood (e.g., finishing college), whereas disadvantageous decision makers do not, and continue to drink heavily. These findings extend earlier findings of neurocognitive predictors of relapse in clinical substance‐dependent groups, to subclinical alcohol use and abuse.
Subcortical Volumes in Long‐Term Abstinent Alcoholics: Associations With Psychiatric Comorbidity
Authors: Sameti Mohammad , Smith Stan , Patenaude Brian , Fein George
Published: February 2011

Background:  Research in chronic alcoholics on memory, decision‐making, learning, stress, and reward circuitry has increasingly highlighted the importance of subcortical brain structures. In addition, epidemiological studies have established the pervasiveness of co‐occurring psychiatric diagnoses in alcoholism. Subcortical structures have been implicated in externalizing pathology, including alcohol dependence, and in dysregulated stress and reward circuitry in anxiety and mood disorders and alcohol dependence. Most studies have focused on active or recently detoxified alcoholics, while subcortical structures in long‐term abstinent alcoholics (LTAA) have remained relatively uninvestigated.

Methods:  Structural MRI was used to compare volumes of 8 subcortical structures (lateral ventricles, thalamus, caudate, putamen, pallidum, hippocampus, amygdala, and nucleus accumbens) in 24 female and 28 male LTAA (mean abstinence = 6.3 years, mean age = 46.6 years) and 23 female and 25 male nonalcoholic controls (NAC) (mean age = 45.6 years) to explore relations between subcortical brain volumes and alcohol use measures in LTAA and relations between subcortical volumes and psychiatric diagnoses and symptom counts in LTAA and NAC.

Results:  We found minimal differences between LTAA and NAC in subcortical volumes. However, in LTAA, but not NAC, volumes of targeted subcortical structures were smaller in individuals with versus without comorbid lifetime or current psychiatric diagnoses, independent of lifetime alcohol consumption.

Conclusions:  Our finding of minimal differences in subcortical volumes between LTAA and NAC is consistent with LTAA never having had volume deficits in these regions. However, given that imaging studies have frequently reported smaller subcortical volumes in active and recently detoxified alcoholics compared to controls, our results are also consistent with the recovery of subcortical volumes with sustained abstinence. The finding of persistent smaller subcortical volumes in LTAA, but not NAC, with comorbid psychiatric diagnoses, suggests that the smaller volumes are a result of the combined effects of chronic alcohol dependence and psychiatric morbidity and suggests that a comorbid psychiatric disorder (even if not current) interferes with the recovery of subcortical volumes.
Alcohol, Smoking, and Drug Use Among Inuit Women of Childbearing Age During Pregnancy and the Risk to Children
Authors: Muckle Gina , Laflamme Dominique , Gagnon Jocelyne , Boucher Olivier , Jacobson Joseph L. , Jacobson Sandra W.
Published: February 2011

Background:  Alcohol consumption during pregnancy, a known teratogen often associated with drug use and smoking is a well‐known public health concern.

Aim:  This study provides prevalence data for alcohol, smoking, and illicit drug use before, during, and after pregnancy among Inuit. Factors associated with alcohol use are also identified.

Methods:  Two hundred and eight Inuit women from Arctic Quebec were interviewed at mid‐pregnancy, and at 1 and 11 months postpartum to provide descriptive data on smoking, alcohol, and drug use during pregnancy, and the year before and after pregnancy. Sociodemographic and family characteristics potentially associated with alcohol use were documented.

Results:  Ninety‐two percent of the women reported smoking and 61% reported drinking during pregnancy. Episodes of binging during pregnancy were reported by 62% of the alcohol users, which correspond to 38% of pregnant women. Thirty‐six percent of the participants reported using marijuana during pregnancy. Alcohol use and binge drinking during pregnancy were more likely to be reported by women who lived in less crowded houses, had a better knowledge of a second language, drank alcohol more often and in larger amounts prior to pregnancy, and used illicit drugs. Binge drinkers were more likely to be single women and to have had fewer previous pregnancies. Postpartum distress and violence were more likely to be experienced by women who used alcohol during pregnancy. Binge drinking during pregnancy was best predicted by drinking habits before pregnancy, maternal symptoms of depression, the use of illicit drugs during pregnancy, and the number of young children living with the mother.

Conclusions:  These results confirm that alcohol is a major risk factor to maternal and child health in this population, underscoring the need for culturally relevant and effective prevention programs.
A Higher than Expected Prevalence of AV Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia in Patients Receiving Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillators
Authors: GOLDBERGER JEFFREY J. , PASSMAN ROD , ARORA RISHI , KADISH ALAN H.
Published: February 2011

Background:
 Epidemiologic studies have indicated that the prevalence of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is approximately two to three of 1000 persons, of whom 50–60% have atrioventricular node reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT). Although SVT has been reported to account for a significant portion of inappropriate shocks in patients receiving implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs), the incidence of AVNRT is unknown.

Objective:
 To define the incidence of AVNRT in patients with ICDs.

Methods and Results:
 Of 426 patients followed with an ICD, 15 patients with AVNRT were identified (3.5%). AVNRT was noted preimplant in eight patients. One had remote AVNRT and had undergone radiofrequency (RF) ablation several years prior to ICD implantation. Three patients had known episodes and underwent RF ablation prior to ICD implant. Four had AVNRT induced at preimplant electrophysiology study and three had RF ablation prior to ICD implant. Seven patients had clinical episodes of AVNRT after ICD implant and six of seven received inappropriate ICD therapy for AVNRT. All seven patients underwent RF ablation for treatment of AVNRT. No patient who underwent RF ablation had further clinical episodes of SVT, and only one had further inappropriate ICD therapy for sinus tachycardia.

Conclusion:
 The substantially higher prevalence of AVNRT in our followed ICD population (3.5%) compared to the general population may be due to detection bias or electroanatomic changes in the atrioventricular nodal area induced by the accompanying heart disease. In any case, further studies to evaluate the inducibility of AVNRT prior to ICD implant, its prognostic implications, and the role of RF ablation to prevent inappropriate shocks are warranted. (PACE 2011; 34:584–586)
Early Diastolic Flow Propagation Velocity Detects Induced Diastolic Dysfunction during Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography
Authors: Ohara Takahiro , Hashimoto Yuji , Suzuki Makoto , Matsumura Akihiko , Isobe Mitsuaki
Published: February 2011

Objective: Diastolic dysfunction precedes systolic dysfunction during the development of myocardial ischemia. Detecting diastolic dysfunction during stress test for coronary artery disease (CAD) could improve diagnostic sensitivity of the test. Flow propagation velocity (FPV) derived from color M‐mode Doppler has been proposed as a sensitive marker to detect diastolic dysfunction. Methods: The FPVs at baseline and at peak dobutamine infusion were measured using color M‐mode Doppler during dobutamine stress echocardiography in 90 patients. The results are compared among the groups divided on the results of coronary angiography. Results: The FPV was similar at baseline among the groups. At peak dobutamine infusion, the FPV increased significantly in the non‐CAD group (from 56 ± 19 cm/s to 66 ± 25 cm/s), whereas it failed to increase in the groups with CAD. As a result, the peak FPV was significantly lower in the groups with CAD than in the non‐CAD group. Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that the peak FPV and ΔFPV had good diagnostic property to detect CAD (the areas under the curves were 0.77 and 0.73, respectively). Adopting these FPV criteria, sensitivity of DSE was improved. Conclusion: FPV measurement during DSE detects ischemic left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. Adding the assessment of peak FPV to conventional DSE increases the sensitivity and the ability to reliably exclude CAD. (Echocardiography 2011;28:335‐341)
Early Right Cardiac Dysfunction in Patients with Schistosomiasis Mansoni
Authors: Carvalho Vinicius T. , Barbosa Marcia M. , Nunes Maria Carmo P. , Cardoso Yuri S. , de Sá Filho Isaías M. , Oliveira Flávia R. , Antunes Carlos Maurício F. , Lambertucci José R.
Published: February 2011

Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a complication of schistosomiasis mansoni (SM), mainly in the hepatosplenic form. However, its prevalence is not well established. We evaluated the usefulness of Doppler echocardiographic indexes to detect right heart dysfunction in SM. Methods: A total of 83 patients divided into two groups were studied: Group 1: 44 patients with hepatosplenic SM, and Group 2: 39 patients with hepatointestinal SM who served as controls. All patients underwent a Doppler echocardiogram. Right ventricular end‐diastolic area (RVEDA), the peak systolic tricuspid annular tissue velocity (S’), right ventricular index of myocardial performance (RVIMP) and right atrial area (RAA) were measured in all patients. Tricuspid regurgitation peak velocity (TR) was measured and the pressure gradient (TG) was obtained. Results: The prevalence of patients with elevated systolic pulmonary artery pressure at echocardiography was 31% in hepatosplenic patients, while no patient with the hepatointestinal form presented PH. Patients with hepatosplenic SM had larger RVEDA (10.0 ± 2.8 vs. 8.5 ± 1.8 cm2/m, P = 0.006) and RAA (9.39 [8.3–11.0] vs. 7.7 [6.9–8.4 cm2/m], P < 0.001). There was correlation between TG and RVIMP (r = 0.58; P < 0.001) and between TG and RAA (r = 0.36; P = 0.03) in Group 1. Conclusion: Larger RAA and RVEDA were found in patients with hepatosplenic SM, when compared to patients with the hepatointestinal form, which may suggest early impairment of RV function in patients with hepatosplenic SM. (Echocardiography 2011;28:261‐267)
Living (in) Class: Contexts of Immigrant Lives and the Movements of Children with(in) Them
Authors: Theodorou Eleni
Published: February 2011

This article explores the ways in which immigrant children in Cyprus negotiated and perceived their class positions amidst the transnational activities of their parents. As findings indicate, children develop acute understandings of the impact money has on their lives. Drawing on resources physically or imaginarily available to them, children navigated their class positions, hence blurring their boundaries and conceptualizations. [children, immigration, social class, Cyprus, transnationalism]
Principals, Power, and Policy: Enacting “Supplemental Educational Services”
Authors: Koyama Jill
Published: February 2011

Under No Child Left Behind (NCLB), schools that do not make adequate yearly progress must offer afterschool tutoring, entitled “Supplemental Educational Services” (SES). Drawing on 40 months of ethnographic research and utilizing actor–network theory, this article shows principals co‐opting the SES provisions to do what they determine is required for their schools, often in defiance of NCLB. It demonstrates how, within an increasingly centralized governance of public schools and heightened private intervention, principals emerge as powerful policy actors. [principal, policy, actor–network theory, NCLB, SES]
Open Folklore as an Open Access Model
Authors: Fortun Kim
Published: February 2011

[commentary, circulation, folklore, open access, research methods, archive, drupal, open journal system]
The Science and Soul of Exhumations: Taking Subjectivity Seriously in Science
Authors: Ceasar Rachel
Published: February 2011

[photo essay, circulation, exhumation, Spanish civil war, archaeology, forensic anthropology]
From Expeditions to Exhibitions: Circulation of Anthropological Knowledge in Copán, Honduras
Authors: Rodríguez‐Mejía Fredy R
Published: February 2011

[commentary, circulation, Copan, Peabody Museum, archaeology, community, identity, Fragile Memories]
Circulations of Knowledge and Culture: Teaching the Concepts of Diffusion and Adaptation as Students Experience Them
Authors: Keeling Lin Bentley
Published: February 2011

[teaching strategies, circulation, education, theory, diffusion]
Spectacle in Circulation: Linking the Everyday and the Spectacular through Ethnography
Authors: Baloy Natalie J K
Published: February 2011

[field notes, circulation, Olympics, spectacle, Aboriginality, alterity, representation, race relations, Vancouver, ethnography]
Interview with Shannon Lee Dawdy
Authors: Dominguez Virginia R
Published: February 2011

[archaeology, MacArthur fellow, New Orleans]
Access to Clinical Research in an Era of Health Care Reform
Authors: Lee Simon J Craddock
Published: February 2011

[policy, medical anthropology, healthcare]

Pam Putenney is contributing editor of “Views on Policy,” the AAA Committee on Public Policy column in Anthropology News.
Violating Human Rights in the US Immigration Detention System
Authors: Ho Christine GT
Published: February 2011

[human rights, immigration, detention]

Gretchen E Schafft is contributing editor of “Human Rights Forum,” the AAA Committee for Human Rights column in Anthropology News.
Circulation of Transdisciplinary Knowledge and Culture in a High‐Tech Organization
Authors: Metcalf Crysta J
Published: February 2011

[circulation, applied anthropology, research method]

Elizabeth Brody and Antonio Chavarria are contributing editors of “Anthropology Works,” the AAA Committee on Practicing, Applied and Public Interest Anthropology column in Anthropology News.
Anthropology without Borders
Authors: Winslow Deborah
Published: February 2011

[NSF, Cultural Anthropology Program, NSF award]

Deborah Winslow is contributing editor of “Gateway to NSF,” the National Science Foundation column in Anthropology News.

Job Placement
Determination of vertical dimension of occlusion in dentate patients by cephalometric analysis – pilot study
Authors: Tavano Karine T. A. , Seraidarian Paulo I. , de Oliveira Dauro D. , Jansen Wellington C.
Published: February 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00469.x
 
Determination of vertical dimension of occlusion in dentate patients by cephalometric analysis – pilot study

Objectives:  The concept of vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) refers to a measure in the vertical plane that establishes the relation between the maxilla and the mandible when the posterior teeth, both from the maxillary and from the mandibular arches, are occluded, regardless of whether they are natural or prosthetic, healthy or restored. This measure is subject to change, and when this occurs, it can compromise both the function and the facial aesthetics. This study proposed to develop a methodology based on cephalometric analysis by studying the 31 lateral teleradiographs of adult, dentate individuals to determine the VDO, based on bone structures that are not dependent on the presence or absence of posterior teeth. The final goal was to make this application accessible to individuals who have undergone alterations of the lower portion of the face.

Materials and methods:  The cephalometric analysis of this study, called Seraidarian‐Tavano, was verified through facial angles (upper and middle angles) that, when correlated, determine the lower position of the face.

Results:  The analysis of results showed that no statistically significant difference between the angles studied could be observed (superior angle 50.29 ± 3.35 e median angle 49.95 ± 3.37). In the same manner, no variation in the results regarding gender in the measure of these angles could be observed.

Conclusion:  This cephalometric analysis can be applied to determine the VDO, regardless of the presence or absence of posterior teeth.
Review article: Management of dental emergencies by medical practitioners: Recommendations for Australian education and training
Authors: Skapetis Tony , Gerzina Tania , Hu Wendy
Published: February 2011

Dental emergencies commonly present to EDs and primary care consultations. The medical practitioner is often ill‐prepared in the primary management of dental emergencies because of a lack of education in this field of practice. A published work review covering the nature, incidence, education and training surrounding this topic is presented together with recommendations for Australian practice.
Delays in presentation with acute coronary syndrome in people with coronary artery disease in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: McKinley Sharon , Aitken Leanne M , Marshall Andrea P , Buckley Thomas , Baker Heather , Davidson Patricia M , Dracup Kathleen
Published: February 2011

Objectives: To report time from the onset of symptoms to hospital presentation in Australian and New Zealand patients with subsequently confirmed acute coronary syndrome, and to identify factors associated with prehospital delay time in these patients.

Methods: Patients with coronary artery disease enrolled in a randomized clinical trial testing an intervention to reduce delay in responding to acute coronary syndrome symptoms had been followed for 24 months. In cases of admission to the ED for possible acute coronary syndrome, medical records were reviewed to determine the diagnosis, prehospital delay time, mode of transport to the hospital and aspirin use before admission. Clinical and demographic data were taken from the trial database.

Results: Patients (n= 140) had an average (SD) age of 67.3 (11.5) years; 36% were female. Two‐thirds of patients went to hospital by ambulance and 89.3% had a final diagnosis of unstable angina. The median time from onset of symptoms to arrival at the ED was 2 h and 25 min (interquartile range 1:25–4:59); 12.1% arrived ≤ 1 h and 66% within 4 h. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that use of ambulance (Beta = 0.247, P= 0.012) and younger age (Beta = 0.198, P= 0.043) were independent predictors of shorter delay times.

Conclusion: The time from the onset of symptoms to hospital presentation was too long for maximal benefit from treatment in most patients. Further efforts are needed to reduce treatment‐seeking delay in response to symptoms of acute coronary syndrome.
IS MORE STRUCTURE REALLY BETTER? A COMPARISON OF FRAME‐OF‐REFERENCE TRAINING AND DESCRIPTIVELY ANCHORED RATING SCALES TO IMPROVE INTERVIEWERS’ RATING QUALITY
Authors: MELCHERS KLAUS G. , LIENHARDT NADJA , VON AARBURG MIRIAM , KLEINMANN MARTIN
Published: February 2011

This study provides the first comparison of 2 methods proposed to increase the structure of selection interviews: frame‐of‐reference (FOR) rater training for interviewers and providing interviewers with descriptively anchored rating scales. In contrast to descriptively anchored rating scales, evidence for the efficacy of FOR training for interviewers is still missing even though its effects have been established in other domains. To evaluate the effectiveness of the 2 methods, we used a 2 × 2 design in which both methods were manipulated independently. Participants observed and rated different interviewees’ performance in a set of videotaped interviews. We found that both methods led to substantial, and comparable, improvements in both rating accuracy and interrater reliability in comparison to a control condition in which neither method was used. Furthermore, even though both methods have the same aim (i.e., enhancing the evaluation process by providing a common evaluative standard for raters), combining both methods led to further improvements in rating accuracy beyond the effects of the individual methods. Practical implications for selection interviews are discussed.