bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Guanxiand Conflict Management for Effective Partnering with Competitors in China
Authors: Wong Alfred , Tjosvold Dean
Published: March 2010

Competitors are increasingly forming partnerships to improve their capabilities to respond to customers and solve problems. This study uses research onguanxiand conflict management to identify critical conditions that facilitate effective collaboration between competitors. It theorizes that a high level ofguanxipromotes cooperative and reduces competitive approaches to conflict that in turn facilitate partnership effectiveness. Data were collected from 100 paired competitors, operating in many industries in Shanghai, China. Results from the structural equation analysis indicated that a high level ofguanxireduces a competitive approach to conflict that in turn results in partnership effectiveness. These findings were interpreted as providing support that a high level ofguanxiand a reduced level of the competitive approach to conflict are foundations for effective collaboration between competitors in China and perhaps in other countries as well.
Caudate atrophy on MRI is a characteristic feature of FTLD‐FUS
Authors: Josephs K. A. , Whitwell J. L. , Parisi J. E. , Petersen R. C. , Boeve B. F. , Jack Jr C. R. , Dickson D. W.
Published: March 2010

Background and purpose:  Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) can be subdivided into those in which the abnormal protein is tau (FTLD‐TAU), the TAR DNA binding protein 43 (FTLD‐TDP) and the fused in sarcoma protein (FTLD‐FUS). We have observed severe caudate atrophy at autopsy in FTLD‐FUS, and hence, we aimed to determine whether caudate atrophy on MRI is a feature that can distinguish FTLD‐FUS from FTLD‐TDP and FTLD‐TAU.

Methods:  From a cohort of 207 cases of FTLD, we identified all cases of FTLD‐FUS that had a volumetric antemortem head MRI (n = 3). Caudate and frontal lobe volumes were measured in all three cases using atlas‐based parcellation and SPM5 and were compared to 10 randomly selected cases of FTLD‐TDP and 10 randomly selected cases of FTLD‐TAU. Total grey matter volumes were also calculated for all cases.

Results:  The FTLD‐FUS cases had significantly smaller caudate volumes (P = 0.02) yet similar frontal lobe grey matter volumes (P = 0.12) compared to FTLD‐TDP and FTLD‐TAU. Caudate volumes when corrected for total grey matter volume (P = 0.01) or frontal lobe grey matter volume (P = 0.01) were significantly smaller in FTLD‐FUS than in FTLD‐TDP and FTLD‐TAU and showed no overlap with the other two groups.

Conclusions:  Caudate atrophy on MRI appears to be significantly greater in FTLD‐FUS compared with FTLD‐TDP and FTLD‐TAU, suggesting that severe caudate atrophy may be a useful clinical feature to predict FTLD‐FUS pathology.
Legitimation Crisis and the Greek Explosion
Authors: BRATSIS PETER
Published: March 2010

The political ‘explosion’ that took place in Greece was a symptom of a systemic and deep‐rooted legitimation crisis of the Greek state. This essay examines some of the causes of this crisis, how the political space in which this explosion occurred was produced, and possibilities for continued political antagonisms and struggles.

L'‘irruption’ politique qui a eu lieu en Grèce était un symptôme d’une crise de légitimité systémique et profonde de l’État grec. Ce texte s’intéresse à certaines causes de cette crise, aux modalités de production de l’espace politique dans lequel s’est produite cette irruption, ainsi qu’aux possibilités de voir perdurer conflits et antagonismes politiques.
The behavior of hair from different countries
Authors: Porter C. E. , Dixon F. , Khine C.‐C. , Pistorio B. , Bryant H. , De La Mettrie R.
Published: March 2010

J. Cosmet. Sci., 60, 97–109 (March/April 2009)

Synopsis

J. Cosmet. Sci., 60, 97–109 (March/April 2009)

The properties of curly hair from different countries were assessed using geometrical measurements from a laser scanning micrometer and a new hair shape classification method. In addition, tensile tests, 2‐D gel electrophoresis, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were performed. Results concluded that hair characteristics are influenced by the degree of curl. For example, curlier hair tended to be more fragile. Interestingly, the degree of curl in hair also was dependent upon the country of origin. DSC and 2‐D gel electrophoresis showed that the thermal behavior and the protein markers in hair differed as a function of hair origin. The variability seen in hair characteristics may potentially influence how the hair responds to treatment and these differences could be caused by regional and cultural diversities in the population from where the hair originated.
Hair breakage—How to measure and counteract
Authors: Haake H.‐M. , Marten S. , Seipel W. , Eisfeld W.
Published: March 2010

J. Cosmet. Sci., 60, 143–151 (March/April 2009)

Synopsis

A system to determine the efficacy of hair treatments in terms of anti‐breakage and split end prevention was developed which involves the repeated combing of hair strands. The device allows ten hair strands to be combed simultaneously. First, the influences of chemical hair treatments like bleaching on hair breakage were examined. In a next step, the protective effects of benchmark products from the market were studied. Since nearly all commercial products with anti‐breakage claims contain silicones combined with cationic polymers, alternative actives were searched. In a test series with different waxes in shampoo formulations with a variable number of parameters, the particle size was found to be the factor with the strongest influence on the amount of wax deposited on the shampooed hair. Therefore, a targeted development was started, resulting in a combination of several ethers dispersed in sodium laureth sulfate. Excellent conditioning, anti‐breakage and split ends protection properties of the compound were found, showing also a dosage dependency. The latter could be explained by analyzing the amounts of waxes applied on treated hair. In these experiments, a dependency on the concentration in the shampoo was found.
Image analysis to quantify histological and immunofluorescent staining of ex vivo skin and skin cell cultures
Authors: McMullen R. L. , Bauza E. , Gondran C. , Oberto G. , Domloge N. , Farra C. Dal , Moore D. J.
Published: March 2010

Synopsis

Image processing steps and analysis techniques were developed for the quantification of photomicrographs obtained from light and fluorescence microscopy. The substrates examined were either skin cell cultures, such as normal human keratinocytes (NHK) or fibroblasts, or ex vivo skin sections. Examples of the analyses are provided for the comparison of skincare active ingredient treated samples vs. placebo to demonstrate the utility of the methods to quantify and provide numerical data for a procedure that is typically qualitative in nature and based on observations by a histologist. Quantifiable experiments that are discussed include: Fontana Masson staining for melanin expression; Nile red staining to detect cellular lipid droplets; nuclei staining with diamidino‐phenylindole (DAPI); and immunofluorescent staining of protein expression with a primary antibody directed against the protein (antigen) and a secondary antibody tagged with a fluorescent dye (Alexa Fluor 488) against the primary antibody.
8‐Hydroxydaidzein is unstable in alkaline solutions
Authors: Chang T. ‐S.
Published: March 2010

J. Cosmet. Sci., 60, 353–357 (May/June 2009)

Accepted for publication December 29, 2008.

Synopsis

8‐Hydroxydaidzein is a suicide substrate of mushroom tyrosinase with potent irreversible inhibitory activity. Despite its high potential in the cosmetics industry, it was found that 8‐hydroxydaidzein was unstable in a formulated cream. In this technical note, the stability of 8‐hydroxydaidzein in various solutions is investigated. The compound was dissolved in a series of solvents, and the residual 8‐hydroxydaidzeins in the prepared solutions were sequentially determined during storage by HPLC. As a result, the loss in time of 8‐hydroxydaidzein in both pH 6.8 phosphate buffer and DMSO showed typical first‐order kinetics, and the loss rate constant of the compound in pH 6.8 phosphate buffer (4.48 × 10‐3 h‐1) was 18‐fold higher than that in DMSO (2.5 × 10‐4 h‐1). The stabilities of the compound in different buffers with pH values ranging from pH 5 to pH 9 were determined in advance. The results showed that the compound was completely degraded in one day in the pH 8 and pH 9 buffers. In contrast, 8‐hydroxydaidzein remained stable above 85% after 20 days’ storage in the pH 5 and pH 6 buffers. In addition to the residual 8‐hydroxydaidzein analysis, the residual bioactivities, including tyrosinase inhibitory activity and DPPH‐radical scavenging activity of the 8‐hydroxydaidzein solutions after 20 days’ storage in different pH values, were also determined, and the results correlated well with those of the stability experiments. All the results demonstrated that 8‐hydroxydaidzein is unstable in alkaline solutions. According to the data in the present report, it is recommended that 8‐hydroxydaidzein be formulated in an acid solution for its applications.
Cosmetic application of a novel technique preparing lamellar‐structure‐nano capsule with POE/POP dimethyl ether
Authors: Oka T. , Miyahara R. , Ojima K. , Hara E. , Miyake H. , Kimura T. , Hukuhara T. , Tagai K.
Published: March 2010

We have developed various kinds of ultrafine emulsifying methods using POE/POP dimethyl ether. Among ultrafine emulsions made by these methods, it was reported that an o/w type emulsion, which had been prepared with POE/POP dimethyl ether, sterol surfactant, and polar oils, was characterized by a lamellar structure on the outside of nano‐size emulsified particles (lamellar nano‐capsules). The investigation of the use of various kinds of lipophilic active ingredients inside the particles showed that the particles could hold the ingredients stably. The fluidity of emulsified particles was also investigated from the measurements of fluorescent polarization and NMR measurements. On the other hand, panel tests of a cosmetic essence containing the emulsion showed that approximately 80% of panelists confirmed the essence could improve their skin condition including skin‐moisture and skin‐tension after the treatments, and they felt a clear progress in skin‐improvement by continuing use of the essence.

Keywords:  POE/POP dimethyl ether, sterol surfactant, polar oil, ultrafine emulsion, lamellar structure, lipophilic active ingredient, fluorescent polarization, cosmetic essence, skin‐moisture, skin‐tension
Evaluation of tactile sensation of cosmetics by tactile movement — application movement of skin care products
Authors: Akiyama Y. , Izumi Y. , Nishijima S.
Published: March 2010

The correlation between tactile sensation and tactile movement during application of cosmetics is important because tactile sensation is induced only by active handling. The aim of this study is to evaluate application feeling of skin care products objectively using motion analysis of human fingers during application. The effect of the application velocity on the sensory evaluation score was investigated. It was shown that the participants tend to apply the skin care products at the velocity which they feel the most comfortable. Based on this result, change in the application velocity by changing rheological property of the skin care product was studied. From these results, it was shown that motion analysis of application is useful to evaluate tactile feelings of skin care products.

Keywords:  tactile sensation, skin care products, application movement, application velocity, sensory evaluation, tactile movement, application feeling, motion analysis, rheological property, active handling
A common intracellular allosteric binding site for antagonists of the CXCR2 receptor
Authors: Salchow K , Bond ME , Evans SC , Press NJ , Charlton SJ , Hunt PA , Bradley ME
Published: March 2010

Background and purpose:  We have previously shown that SB265610 (1‐(2‐bromo‐phenyl)‐3‐(7‐cyano‐3H‐benzotriazol‐4‐yl)‐urea) behaves as an allosteric, inverse agonist at the C‐X‐C chemokine (CXCR)2 receptor. The aim of this study was to determine whether SB265610, in addition to two other known antagonists, bind to either of the two putative, topographically distinct, allosteric binding sites previously reported in the Literature.

Experimental approach:  Ten single point mutations were introduced into the CXCR2 receptor using site‐directed mutagenesis. Three CXCR2 antagonists were investigated, SB265610, Pteridone‐1 (2‐(2,3 difluoro‐benzylsulphanyl)‐4‐((R)‐2‐hydroxy‐1‐methyl‐ethylamino)‐8H‐pteridin‐7‐one) and Sch527123 (2‐hydroxy‐N,N‐dimethyl‐3‐{2‐[[(R)‐1‐(5‐methyl‐furan‐2‐yl)‐propyl]amino]‐3,4‐dioxo‐cyclobut‐1enylamino}‐benzamide), and the effect of these mutations on their binding affinity and ability to inhibit interleukin‐8‐stimulated binding of [35S]GTPγS was examined.

Key results:  Seven of the nine mutations introduced into the C‐terminal domain and intracellular loops of the receptor produced a significant reduction in affinity at least one of the antagonists tested. Of those seven mutations, three produced a significant reduction in the affinity of all three antagonists, namely K320A, Y314A and D84N. In all but one mutation, the changes observed on antagonist affinity were matched with effects on inhibition of interleukin‐8‐stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding.

Conclusions and implications:  These antagonists bind to a common intracellular, allosteric, binding site of the CXCR2 receptor, which has been further delineated. As many of these mutations are close to the site of G protein coupling or to a region of the receptor that is responsible for the transduction of the activation signal, our results suggest a molecular mechanism for the inhibition of receptor activation.
Thrombospondin‐1 is an inhibitor of pharmacological activation of soluble guanylate cyclase
Authors: Miller Thomas W , Isenberg Jeff S , Roberts David D
Published: March 2010

Background and purpose:  Soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) is the signal transduction enzyme most responsible for mediating the effects of nitric oxide (NO). Recently, NO‐independent small molecule activators of sGC have been developed that have promising clinical activities. We have shown that the secreted matrix protein thrombospondin‐1 (TSP‐1) binds to CD47 and potently inhibits NO stimulation of sGC in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and platelets. Here we show that TSP‐1 signalling via CD47 inhibits sGC activation by NO‐independent sGC activating small molecules.

Experimental approach:  Vascular smooth muscle cells and washed human platelets were pretreated with TSP‐1 (2.2 nM) in the presence of haeme‐dependent sGC activators (YC‐1, BAY 41‐2272), and a haeme‐independent activator (meso‐porphyrin IX), and cGMP levels were measured. The effect of sGC activators on platelet aggregation and contraction of VSMC embedded in collagen gels was also assayed in the presence and absence of TSP‐1.

Key results:  Thrombospondin‐1 inhibited sGC activator‐dependent increase in cGMP in VSMC and platelets. TSP‐1 pretreatment also inhibited the ability of these agents to delay thrombin‐induced platelet aggregation. TSP‐1 pretreatment reduced the ability of sGC activating agents to abrogate VSMC contraction in vitro.

Conclusions and implications:  This work demonstrates that TSP‐1 is a universal inhibitor of sGC, blocking both haeme‐dependent and haeme‐independent activation. These data coupled with the reported increases in TSP‐1 with age, diabetes, ischaemia/reperfusion, and atherosclerosis implies that the therapeutic potential of all drugs that activate sGC could be compromised in disease states where TSP‐1/CD47 signalling is elevated.
Combined effects of epileptic seizure and phenobarbital induced overexpression of P‐glycoprotein in brain of chemically kindled rats
Authors: Jing Xinyue , Liu Xiang , Wen Tao , Xie Shanshan , Yao Dan , Liu Xiaodong , Wang Guangji , Xie Lin
Published: March 2010

Background and purpose:  The multidrug resistance of epilepsy may result from the overexpression of P‐glycoprotein, but the mechanisms are unclear. We investigated whether the overexpression of P‐glycoprotein in the brains of subjects with pharmacoresistant epilepsy resulted from both drug effects and seizure activity.

Experimental approach:  Kindled rats were developed by injecting a subconvulsive dose of pentylenetetrazole (33 mg·kg−1·day−1, i.p.) for 28 days. Groups were then treated with an oral dose of phenobarbital (45 mg·kg−1·day−1) for 40 days. In accord with behavioural observations, P‐glycoprotein activity in brain was assessed using brain‐to‐plasma concentration ratios of rhodamine 123. P‐glycoprotein levels in the brain regions were further evaluated using RT‐PCR and Western blot analysis. The distribution of phenobarbital in the brain was assessed by measuring phenobarbital concentrations 1 h following its oral administration.

Key results:  The kindling significantly increased P‐glycoprotein activity and expression. Good associations were found among P‐glycoprotein activity, expression and phenobarbital concentration in the hippocampus. Short‐term treatment with phenobarbital showed good anti‐epileptic effect; the maximum effect occurred on day 14 when overexpression of P‐glycoprotein was reversed. Continuous treatment with phenobarbital had a gradually reduced anti‐epileptic effect and on day 40, phenobarbital exhibited no anti‐epileptic effect; this was accompanied by both a re‐enhancement of P‐glycoprotein expression and decreased phenobarbital concentration in the hippocampus. P‐glycoprotein function and expression were also increased in age‐matched normal rats treated with phenobarbital.

Conclusions and implications:  The overexpression of P‐glycoprotein in the brain of subjects with pharmacoresistant epilepsy is due to a combination of drug effects and epileptic seizures.
Analysis of the adverse reactions induced by natural product‐derived drugs
Authors: Zeng Zhi‐Ping , Jiang Jian‐Guo
Published: March 2010

Compared with the therapeutic effects of established medicinal drugs, it is often considered that natural product‐derived drugs are of a more benign nature in side‐effects, which has made natural medicines become a popular form of therapy. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is generally considered as being natural and harmless. TCM has been paid much more attention than before and widely used for the treatment nowadays. However, with the increasing cases of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), the ADRs induced by TCM are becoming more widely recognized. Some ADRs are sometimes even life‐threatening. This article reviews literatures on ADRs induced by TCM which was published in the past 10 years. A total of 3122 cases including complete data are selected for the present analysis. From the data of the 3122 cases, statistics is carried out to the distribution of administration routes and time of the occurrence of ADRs, the prognosis of ADRs, sex and age factors, types and clinical symptoms of ADRs, and drugs involved in ADRs. In addition, occurrence and influencing factors of TCM‐induced diseases are also analysed, which includes spices confusion, processing drugs improperly, toxic components, long‐term medication, improper concerted application, interaction of TCM and Western medicine. It is concluded that the efficacy and toxicity of TCM, often using the compound prescription involving various plants and animals, resulted from a variety of chemical constituents, which lead to a comprehensive response in the human body. The ‘toxicity’ of TCM should be correctly recognized and reasonably utilized.
Estimation of binding rate constants using a simultaneous mixed‐effects method: application to monoamine transporter reuptake inhibitor reboxetine
Authors: Benson Neil , Snelder Nelleke , Ploeger Bart , Napier Carolyn , Sale Harriet , JM Birdsall Nigel , Butt Richard P , van der Graaf Piet H
Published: March 2010

Background and purpose: Reboxetine is a clinically used antidepressant and is a racemic mixture of two enantiomers, SS‐ and RR‐reboxetine. The aim of the work described in this manuscript was to determine the kinetics of binding of the RR‐ and SS‐reboxetine to the human noradrenaline transporter (hNET).

Experimental approach: We have applied a simultaneous mixed‐effects method to the analysis of the transient kinetics of binding of SS‐, RR‐ and racemic reboxetine to hNET. This method allowed simultaneous modelling of multiple datasets, taking into account inter‐experiment variability, thereby facilitating robust parameter estimation and minimizing the assumptions made.

Key results: The mixed‐effects method proved simple and robust. SS‐reboxetine bound to hNET according to a one‐step binding model with the SS‐enantiomer having 130‐fold higher steady state affinity than the RR‐enantiomer (Kd= 0.076 ± 0.009 nM vs. 9.7 ± 0.8 nM respectively). Thekonfor SS‐reboxetine wasc.1.4 × 105 M−1·s−1andkoff1.05 × 10−5 s−1(t1/2∼18 h). Thekonfor RR‐reboxetine wasc.4.3 × 105 M−1·s−1andkoff4.2 × 10−3 s−1(t1/2∼3 min). The racemate behaved as expected for an equimolar mixture of RR‐ and SS‐reboxetine, assuming mutually exclusive binding.

Conclusions and implications: These data will be useful for the interpretation of the behaviour of reboxetine and its enantiomers in man and the method used could be applied to other candidate drugs.
Involvement of 2‐arachidonoyl glycerol in the increased consumption of and preference for ethanol of mice treated with neurotoxic doses of methamphetamine
Authors: Gutierrez‐Lopez MD , Llopis N , Feng S , Barrett DA , O'Shea E , Colado MI
Published: March 2010

Background and purpose: Methamphetamine (METH) is a psychostimulant amphetamine that causes long‐term dopaminergic neurotoxicity in mice. Hypodopaminergic states have been demonstrated to increase voluntary ethanol (EtOH) consumption and preference. In addition, the endocannabinoid system has been demonstrated to modulate EtOH drinking behaviour. Thus, we investigated EtOH consumption in METH‐lesioned animals and the role of cannabinoid (CB) signalling in this EtOH drinking.

Experimental approach: Mice were treated with a neurotoxic regimen of METH, and 7 days later exposed to increasing concentrations of drinking solutions of EtOH (3, 6, 10 and 20%). Seven days after neurotoxic METH, the following biochemical determinations were carried out in limbic forebrain: CB1receptor density and stimulated activity, 2‐arachidonoyl glycerol (2‐AG) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) activity, dopamine levels and dopamine transporter density.

Key results: EtOH consumption and preference were increased in METH‐treated mice. Seven days after METH, a time at which both dopamine levels and density of dopamine transporters in limbic forebrain were decreased, CB1receptor density and activity were unaltered, but 2‐AG levels were increased. At this same time‐point, MAGL activity was reduced. The CB1receptor antagonist AM251 prevented the METH‐induced increase in EtOH consumption and preference, whileN‐arachidonoyl maleimide, an inhibitor of MAGL, increased EtOH consumption and preference in both saline‐ and METH‐treated mice.

Conclusions and implications: An increase in endocannabinoid tone may be involved in the increased consumption of and preference for EtOH displayed by METH‐lesioned mice as blockade of the CB1receptor decreased EtOH‐seeking behaviours, whereas the MAGL inhibitor increased EtOH consumption.

This article is part of a themed issue on Cannabinoids. To view the editorial for this themed issue visithttp://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2010.00831.x
Adolescent cannabis use and psychosis: epidemiology and neurodevelopmental models
Authors: Malone Daniel T , Hill Matthew N , Rubino Tiziana
Published: March 2010

Cannabis is one of the most widely used illicit drugs among adolescents, and most users first experiment with it in adolescence. Adolescence is a critical phase for brain development, characterized by neuronal maturation and rearrangement processes, such as myelination, synaptic pruning and dendritic plasticity. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in fundamental brain developmental processes such as neuronal cell proliferation, migration and differentiation. Therefore changes in endocannabinoid activity during this specific developmental phase, induced by the psychoactive component of marijuana, Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol, might lead to subtle but lasting neurobiological changes that can affect brain functions and behaviour. In this review, we outline recent research into the endocannabinoid system focusing on the relationships between adolescent exposure to cannabinoids and increased risk for certain neuropsychiatric diseases such as schizophrenia, as highlighted by both human and animal studies. Particular emphasis will be given to the possible mechanisms by which adolescent cannabis consumption could render a person more susceptible to developing psychoses such as schizophrenia.

This article is part of a themed issue on Cannabinoids. To view the editorial for this themed issue visithttp://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2010.00831.x
Adenosine–cannabinoid receptor interactions. Implications for striatal function
Authors: Ferré Sergi , Lluís Carme , Justinova Zuzana , Quiroz César , Orru Marco , Navarro Gemma , Canela Enric I , Franco Rafael , Goldberg Steven R
Published: March 2010

Adenosine and endocannabinoids are very ubiquitous non‐classical neurotransmitters that exert a modulatory role on the transmission of other more ‘classical’ neurotransmitters. In this review we will focus on their common role as modulators of dopamine and glutamate neurotransmission in the striatum, the main input structure of the basal ganglia. We will pay particular attention to the role of adenosine A2A receptors and cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Experimental results suggest that presynaptic CB1 receptors interacting with A2A receptors in cortico‐striatal glutamatergic terminals that make synaptic contact with dynorphinergic medium‐sized spiny neurons (MSNs) are involved in the motor‐depressant and addictive effects of cannabinoids. On the other hand, postsynaptic CB1 receptors interacting with A2A and D2 receptors in the dendritic spines of enkephalinergic MSNs and postsynaptic CB1 receptors in the dendritic spines of dynorphinergic MSN are probably involved in the cataleptogenic effects of cannabinoids. These receptor interactions most probably depend on the existence of a variety of heteromers of A2A, CB1 and D2 receptors in different elements of striatal spine modules. Drugs selective for the different striatal A2A and CB1 receptor heteromers could be used for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders and drug addiction and they could provide effective drugs with fewer side effects than currently used drugs.

This article is part of a themed issue on Cannabinoids. To view the editorial for this themed issue visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2010.00831.x
Adverse Selection in the Environmental Stewardship Scheme: Does the Higher Level Stewardship Scheme Design Reduce Adverse Selection?
Authors: Quillérou Emmanuelle , Fraser Rob
Published: March 2010

The Environmental Stewardship Scheme provides payments to farmers for the provision of environmental services based on foregone agricultural income. This creates a potential incentive compatibility problem which, combined with information asymmetry about farm land potential, can lead to adverse selection of land into the Scheme and therefore a less cost‐effective provision of environmental goods and services. However, the Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) Scheme design includes some features that potentially reduce adverse selection. This paper studies the adverse selection problem of the HLS using a principal‐agent framework at the regional level. It is found that, at the regional level, the enrolment of more land from lower payment regions for a given budget constraint has reduced the adverse selection problem through contracting a greater overall area and thus higher overall environmental benefit. In addition, for landscape regions with the same payment rate (i.e. of the same agricultural value), differential weighting of the public demand for environmental goods and services provided by agriculture (measured by weighting an environmental benefit function by the distance to main cities) appears to be reflected in the regulator’s allocation of contracts, thereby also reducing the adverse selection problem.
A Randomized Controlled Trial: Efficacy and Safety of Azithromycin, Ofloxacin, Bismuth, and Omeprazole Compared With Amoxicillin, Clarithromycin, Bismuth, and Omeprazole as Second‐Line Therapy in Patients With Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Minakari Mohammad , Davarpanah Jazi Amir Hosein , Shavakhi Ahmad , Moghareabed Neda , Fatahi Farinaz
Published: March 2010

Background:  Helicobacter pylori infection of the stomach is widespread among human populations and is considered to play a major role in the pathogenesis of various diseases such as peptic ulcer, adenocarcinoma, and mucosa associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma of the stomach. To increase H. pylori eradication rate without increasing bacterial resistance, various regimens have been recommended. Commonly the association of at least two antibiotics with a proton‐pump inhibitor is used. The treatment regimens for second‐line therapy, suggested in studies from the western world may not be ideal in Iran.

Aim:  In this study, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of a new quadruple therapy regimen and compared it with the standard second‐line treatment for H. pylori eradication.

Methods:  We selected 220 H. pylori positive patients, with a clear indication of eradication therapy, who did not respond to a 2 weeks treatment with metronidazole, amoxicillin, omeprazole, and bismuth. They were randomized into two groups. Group A (n = 110) were treated with azithromycin, ofloxacin, bismuth, and omeprazole and group B (n = 110) with amoxicillin, clarithromycin, bismuth, and omeprazole for 2 weeks. Four weeks after the end of treatment, urea breath test was performed for all subjects to confirm eradication.

Results:  In intention‐to‐treat analysis, the rate of H. pylori eradication in groups A and B was 77.3% (85/110) and 64.5% (71/110) respectively (p = .027). In per‐protocol analysis, the rate of H. pylori eradication in groups A and B was 86.7 and 74.7%, respectively (p = .026). The incidence of poor compliance was lower, although not significantly so, in group A than group B (3.5 vs 4.3%). No major adverse events occurred in both groups.

Conclusion:  Two weeks of treatment with ofloxacin, azithromycin, omeprazole, and bismuth is an effective and safe regimen for H. pylori eradication as second‐line therapy.
Type I Restriction–Modification Loci Reveal High Allelic Diversity in Clinical Helicobacter pylori Isolates
Authors: Andres Sönke , Skoglund Anna , Nilsson Christina , Krabbe Margareta , Björkholm Britta , Engstrand Lars
Published: March 2010

Background:  A remarkable variety of restriction‐modification (R‐M) systems is found in Helicobacter pylori. Since they encompass a large portion of the strain‐specific H. pylori genes and therefore contribute to genetic variability, they are suggested to have an impact on disease outcome. Type I R‐M systems comprise three different subunits and are the most complex of the three types of R‐M systems.

Aims:  We investigated the genetic diversity and distribution of type I R‐M systems in clinical isolates of H. pylori.

Material and methods:  Sixty‐one H. pylori isolates from a Swedish hospital based case‐control study and 6 H. pylori isolates of a Swedish population‐based study were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction for the presence of the three R‐M systems' subunits. Representative gene variants were sequenced.

Results:  Although the hsdM and hsdR genes appeared conserved in our clinical H. pylori isolates, the sequences of the hsdS loci were highly variable. Despite their sequence diversity, the genes per se were present at high frequencies. We identified a number of novel allelic hsdS variants, which are distinct from corresponding hsdS loci in the sequenced H. pylori strains 26695, J99 and HPAG1. In analyses of paired H. pylori isolates, obtained from the same individuals with a 4‐year interval, we observed genetic modifications of hsdS genes in patients with atrophic gastric mucosa.

Discussion:  We propose that the genetic variability of hsdS genes in a bacterial population will give rise to new specificities of these enzymes, which might lead to adaptation to an ever‐changing gastric environment.
Comparison of the Efficacy of the Two Tetracycline‐Containing Sequential Therapy Regimens for the Eradication of Helicobacter Pylori: 5 days Versus 14 days Amoxicillin
Authors: Çetinkaya Züleyha A. , Sezikli Mesut , Güzelbulut Fatih , Coşgun Süleyman , Düzgün Serkan , Kurdaş Oya Ö.
Published: March 2010

Aim:  To compare the efficacy of 14‐day and 5‐day amoxicillin treatment on the eradication rate during tetracycline containing sequential H. pylori therapy, and also to compare the eradication rate of this regimen with those used in similar studies performed in Turkey.

Method:  This study included 112 patients infected with H. pylori that were randomized into 2 groups. In group A, patients (n = 56) received pantoprazole (40 mg BID) and amoxicillin (1 g BID) for 5 days, followed by pantoprazole (40 mg BID), tetracycline (500 mg QID), and metronidazole (500 mg TID) for the remaining 9 days. In group B, patients (n = 56) received pantoprazole (40 mg BID) and amoxicillin (1 g BID) for 5 days, followed by pantoprazole (40 mg BID), tetracycline (500 mg QID), metronidazole (500 mg TID), and amoxicillin (1 g BID) for the remaining 9 days. Eradication rates were calculated using both intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and per‐protocol (PP) analyses.

Results:  In all, 112 patients were subjected to ITT analysis and 109 patients completed the study. In group A, H. pylori eradication was achieved in 46 (82.1%) of the 56 patients included in the ITT analysis and in 46 (83.6%) of the 55 patients included in the PP analysis. In group B, H. pylori eradication was achieved in 44 (78.57%) of the 56 patients included in the ITT analysis and in 44 (81.48%) of the 54 patients included in the PP analysis (Table 2). The eradication rates were not statistically significant between the 2 groups (p > .005).

 Eradication rates in the two study groups

 
Group A
Group B
p

n
ITT/PP
n
ITT/PP

Eradication

Female
21
70%/72.4%
34
79.06%/82.9%
NS

Male
25
6.1%/96.1%
10
76.9%/76.9%
NS

Total
46
82.1%/83.6%
44
78.57%/81.48%
NS

NS, not significant; PP, per‐protocol; ITT, intention‐to‐treat.

Conclusion:  Extended duration of amoxicillin treatment during the entire tetracycline containing sequential therapy period did not improve the H. pylori eradication rate. As a consequence, sequential therapy using 5‐day amoxicillin is an acceptable first‐line therapy option for the eradication of H. pylori in Turkey.
Induction of Innate Immune Gene Expression Cascades in Brain Slice Cultures by Ethanol: Key Role of NF‐κB and Proinflammatory Cytokines
Authors: Zou Jian , Crews Fulton
Published: March 2010

Background:  Postmortem human alcoholic brain has increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines (He and Crews, 2007). Nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) is a transcription factor known to induce proinflammatory cytokine expression. Ethanol exposure increases NF‐κB–DNA binding in rat brain (Crews et al., 2006) and in brain slice cultures in vitro (Zou and Crews, 2006). Using hippocampal‐entorhinal cortex (HEC) brain slice cultures, we explored the effect of ethanol on NF‐κB–DNA binding, proinflammatory gene expression, and sensitivity to glutamate neurotoxicity.

Methods:  The HEC brain slice cultures are prepared from rats on P7 and used after 2 weeks in culture. NF‐κB–DNA binding is determined by EMSA, NF‐κB subunit–DNA binding by ELISA and mRNA by RT‐PCR. Multiple antibody immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy are used to characterize cell types expressing ethanol‐induced genes.

Results:  Ethanol treatment results in a progressive increase in NF‐κB–DNA binding that includes large increases in NF‐κB subunit p50 protein–DNA binding. The expression of NF‐κB proinflammatory target genes progressively increased with time of ethanol treatment. Ethanol induces proinflammatory cytokines TNFα, MCP‐1, and IL‐1β, proinflammatory proteases TACE, and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) as well as inducible nitric oxide synthase. Blockade of NF‐κB by using NF‐κB p65 siRNA and BHT reduces ethanol induction of proinflammatory genes. Neutralizing antibody to proinflammatory cytokine TNFα reduces ethanol induction of proinflammatory genes, suggesting cytokine propagation of proinflammatory gene induction. Furthermore, neutralizing antibodies to proinflammatory cytokines and protease tPA inhibitors blunt ethanol sensitization to glutamate neurotoxicity.

Conclusions:  These findings indicate that ethanol treatment increases NF‐κB–DNA binding and proinflammatory gene expression in brain slices. Ethanol‐induced innate immune proinflammatory gene induction alters neurotransmission and likely contributes to alcoholic neurodegeneration.
Verbal and Nonverbal Memory in Adults Prenatally Exposed to Alcohol
Authors: Coles Claire D. , Lynch Mary Ellen , Kable Julie A. , Johnson Katrina C. , Goldstein Felicia C.
Published: March 2010

Background:  Neurocognitive effects of prenatal alcohol exposure in adulthood are not well documented. Questions persist regarding the extent to which there are specific, measurable effects beyond those associated with global ability deficits, whether individuals without the full fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) demonstrate alcohol‐related cognitive impairments, and whether observed memory effects are specific to a particular modality, i.e., verbal vs. visual/spatial domains.

Methods:  In this study, verbal and nonverbal selective reminding paradigms were used to assess memory function in 234 young adults (M age: 22.78, SD: 1.79). Alcohol exposure was quantified prenatally. Alcohol groups included: Individuals with physical effects of alcohol exposure (Dysmorphic group, n = 47); Exposed individuals without such effects (n = 74). Contrast groups included: Controls (n = 59) matched for ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and hospital of birth; Special Education contrast group (n = 54) included to control for disability status. Memory outcomes entailed total recall, delayed recall, and measures of encoding and retrieval, and learning over trials as indexed by slope.

Results:  Results indicated that Dysmorphic individuals were significantly less efficient in memory performance than Controls on all of the outcomes measured, but they did not differ from those in the Special Education contrast group. The nondysmorphic, alcohol‐exposed group was intermediate in their performance, suggesting a continuum of effects of prenatal exposure. Evaluation of the encoding and retrieval aspects of memory performance indicated that learning rather than forgetting accounted for the deficits associated with prenatal alcohol exposure. Finally, no interaction was found between modality of presentation (verbal and nonverbal) and effects of alcohol exposure on memory performance.

Conclusion:  These findings indicate that prenatal alcohol exposure is associated with persistent and specific effects on memory performance, and these problems result from less efficient encoding of information across both verbal and nonverbal modalities. Education and training efforts with this clinical group should take these characteristics into account.
Retrospective Comparison of Ultrasound and Fluoroscopic Image Guidance for Intercostal Steroid Injections
Authors: Shankar Hariharan , Eastwood Dan
Published: March 2010

Introduction:  Steroid injection around the intercostal nerves is one of the treatment options for intercostal neuralgia. The technique may be performed blindly, under fluoroscopic guidance (FSG) or with the use of ultrasound guidance (USG). This study is a retrospective comparison of image guidance for intercostal steroid injections.

Methods:  After Institutional Review Board approval, a retrospective review of all patient charts who received intercostal steroid injections from 2005 to 2009 was performed. A total of 39 blocks were performed in that period. Of that 12 were USG blocks and 27 FSG blocks. The preprocedure visual analog scale (VAS) and postprocedure VAS and the duration of pain relief were compared between the 2 techniques. A Mann–Whitney test and Kruskal–Wallis test were performed looking for differences between the techniques.

Results:  The median change in the VAS for FSG and USG were −5.000 and −4.000, respectively, and duration of pain relief with a median difference of 2 weeks (95% confidence interval of −4, 7). There were 2 occasions of intravascular spread noticed with the FSG although this should not affect the study result as the needle was repositioned and steroid injected only after contrast dye confirmation.

Conclusion:  With similar change in VAS scores and duration of pain relief between the 2 guidance methods based on this retrospective study, both image guidance techniques may offer similar pain relief.
Polyethylene glycol antiglobulin tube versus gel microcolumn: influence on the incidence of delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions and delayed serologic transfusion reactions
Authors: Winters Jeffrey L. , Richa Elie M. , Bryant Sandra C. , Tauscher Craig D. , Bendix Brenda J. , Stubbs James R.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND: Our institution has reported on delayed hemolytic transfusion reaction (DHTR) and delayed serologic transfusion reaction (DSTR) incidence changes. From January 1993 to June 2003, a polyethylene glycol (PEG) tube–based technique was used for red blood cell (RBC) antibody screen. In June 2003, a gel microcolumn technique was implemented. Impact of this on antibody detection and DHTR and DSTR incidence was investigated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Positive antibody screen frequency and antibody specificity from January 2002 to March 2003 and July 2003 to September 2004 were compared. Overall incidence of DHTR and DSTR as well as the number and identity of the RBC antibodies implicated from August 1999 through June 2003 (PEG) and July 2003 through July 2007 (gel) were compared. The mean length of hospital stay (LOS) and number of RBC units transfused per patient were compared.

RESULTS: Equivalent numbers of antibody screens were performed with equivalent numbers of positive screens. Significant differences were not seen in the detection of clinically significant antibodies but significantly fewer clinically insignificant antibodies were detected with gel. Ninety‐six DHTRs and DSTRs were diagnosed. The LOS and number of transfused RBC units were not statistically different. A significantly higher incidence of DHTRs and DSTRs was seen with PEG compared to the gel.

CONCLUSION: The gel microcolumn method is similar to the PEG in detecting clinically significant antibodies but detects fewer clinically insignificant antibodies. The implementation of gel resulted in a lower incidence of DHTRs and DSTRs compared to PEG.
Defining Patients at High Risk for Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage after Drug‐Eluting Stent Placement: A Cost Utility Analysis
Authors: GUPTA NEIL , NAYAK RAHUL , GRISOLANO SCOTT W. , BUCKLES DANIEL C. , TADROS PETER N.
Published: March 2010

Introduction: The study goal was to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of drug‐eluting stent (DES) placement with consideration of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding risk. DES reduce the need for future coronary revascularization, but require prolonged dual anti‐platelet (DAT) therapy, which may increase the risk for GI bleeding. While DES have been found to be cost‐effective in patients at average risk for GI bleeding, they may not be the most cost‐effective strategy in higher risk patients.

Methods: A Markov model was created to compare DES with bare metal stents (BMS). Patients were a hypothetical cohort of 60‐year‐old individuals with coronary artery stenosis that required nonemergent percutaneous coronary revascularization (PCI). The primary outcomes were the threshold incremental risks of GI bleeding from DAT based on willingness to pay (WTP) of $50,000, $100,000, and $150,000 per quality adjusted life year (QALY) gained.

Results: For a WTP of $100,000, the relative risk of GI bleeding from DAT could be as high as 10.8 (when compared to aspirin alone) before DES would no longer be cost‐effective. In patients with two risk factors for GI bleeding, the threshold relative risk could be as low as 1.6.

Conclusion: In average‐risk patients, the risk of GI bleeding from DAT can be substantial without affecting the cost‐effectiveness of DES. However, DES are unlikely to be cost‐effective in patients with two or more risk factors for GI bleeding. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:179‐187)
Serial Intravascular Ultrasound Analysis of the Impact of Myocardial Bridge on Neointimal Proliferation After Coronary Stenting in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: TSUJITA KENICHI , MAEHARA AKIKO , MINTZ GARY S. , LANSKY ALEXANDRA J. , KUBO TAKASHI , DOI HIROSHI , YANG JUNQING , BHARAJ HARPREET , WITZENBICHLER BERNHARD , GUAGLIUMI GIULIO , BRODIE BRUCE R. , KELLETT MIRLE A. , PARISE HELEN , MEHRAN ROXANA , STONE GREGG W.
Published: March 2010

Background: Mechanisms underlying the association between myocardial bridge (MB)‐stenting and in‐stent restenosis (ISR) are still unclear.

Objective: To assess the impact of MB on ISR using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS).

Methods: In the Harmonizing Outcomes with Revascularization and Stents in Acute Myocardial Infarction (HORIZONS‐AMI) trial, 100 left anterior descending artery (LAD) culprit lesions (79 treated with paclitaxel‐eluting stents [PES] and 21 treated with bare metal stents) were imaged with serial IVUS immediately postprocedure and at 13 months.

Results: At baseline the LAD stent extended into the MB segment beyond the culprit lesion in seven patients (MB‐stent group). In the remaining 93 patients the LAD stent was implanted only in the culprit lesion without extending into the MB segment (non‐MB‐stent group). In PES‐treated lesions intimal hyperplasia (IH) was greater in MB‐stent group than in non‐MB‐stent group (1.0 [0.9, 1.3] mm2 vs. 0.4 [0.2, 0.7] mm2, P = 0.007). When comparing the MB‐stent segment with the non‐MB‐stent segment in the MB‐stent group treated with PES, a significant reduction in lumen area was observed in only the MB‐stent segment, owing to an augmented IH within the MB‐stent segment (1.56 [1.40, 1.91] mm2 vs. 0.77 [0.55, 1.23] mm2 for non‐MB‐stent segment, P = 0.08), not significant stent recoil (Δstent area). At follow‐up, the minimum lumen area was smaller in the MB‐stent group than in the non‐MB‐stent group (2.9 [2.5, 4.2] mm2 vs. 5.2 [4.1, 6.7] mm2, P = 0.02).

Conclusions: Increased incidence of ISR associated with MB‐stenting may be attributable to enhanced IH, specific to stented MB segment, not to chronic stent recoil. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:114‐122)