bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sodium dl‐α‐tocopheryl phosphate inhibits ultraviolet‐induced production of reactive nitrogen species in human keratinocytes
Authors: Nakama M. , Tanaka H. , Ishii I. , Nakata S.
Published: January 2010

It has been well established that UV irradiation causes various kinds of photodamage in human skin. Skin photodamage is mainly caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as superoxide, hydroxyl radical, hydrogen peroxide, and singlet oxygen. Recently, it has been revealed that reactive nitrogen species (RNS), such as nitric oxide (NO) and peroxynitrite (ONOO−), are also an important consideration in UV‐irradiated human skin. Reactive nitrogen species cause several types of skin damage, for example erythema, darkening, disruption of epidermal barrier function, and psoriasis. Therefore, it is very important to control RNS production for beautiful skin to be maintained. However, RNS are indirectly measured by stable degradation products because their life is very short. In this present study, we attempted the direct observation of RNS production in human keratinocytes. As a result, we succeeded in direct measurement of real‐time UVB‐induced RNS production in human keratinocytes by using a RNS‐specific fluorescence probe. On the other hand, sodium dl‐α‐tocopheryl phosphate (VEP), a newly synthesized water‐soluble vitamin E derivative, inhibited UVB‐induced RNS production in human keratinocytes. Furthermore, we revealed that UVB‐induced neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) mediates RNS production in human keratinocytes. These results suggest that VEP is a useful ingredient for cosmetic products, and that VEP may protect the skin from several kinds of damage caused by UV‐induced RNS production.

Key words:  sodium dl‐α‐tocopheryl phosphate (VEP), reactive nitrogen species (RNS), nitric oxide (NO), peroxynitrite (ONOO−), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), RNS‐specific fluorescence probe, UV, keratinocytes, reactive oxygen species (ROS), skin photodamage.
A novel non‐invasive method for assessing interior skin damage caused by aging and photoaging
Authors: Kawabata (Kishi) M. , Tsuchiya J. , Yamakawa Y. , Miyamae Y. , Ozaki Y.
Published: January 2010

The phenomenon of aging can broadly be categorized into photoaging caused by exogenous factors and physiological aging that is caused by endogenous factors. Our goal was to develop a non‐invasive way to assess changes taking place inside the skin for each type of aging, photoaging and physiological aging, by using near‐infrared diffuse reflectance (NIR‐DR) spectroscopy. For the photoaging and physiological aging effects, the outer forearm (sun‐exposed) and the inner upper arm (sun‐protected) skin areas were studied in eighty‐six females from twenty‐three to sixty‐nine years of age. Measurements were made using NIR‐DR and subjected to Principal Component Analysis (PCA); the results suggested the possibility of distinguishing and quantifying both types of aging taking place inside the skin by using the 1670–1820 nm and 2000–2230 nm regions of NIR‐DR spectra. In photoaging, structural changes in proteins occur which are reflected in the NIR‐DR spectra in the form of a peak shift near 2050 nm that is due to a combination of amide A and amide II. On the other hand, physiological aging is associated with a change in collagen quantity as is reflected in the portion of the NIR‐DR spectra assigned to protein. Using NIR‐DR and PCA, we discovered the possibility of using a non‐invasive method for assessing the degree of photoaging and physiological aging as degeneration and degradation.

Key words:  photoaging, physiological aging, non‐invasive, NIR‐DR, PCA, peak shift, a combination of amide A and amide II, protein, degeneration, degradation.
Linkage Disequilibrium Pattern in Asthma Candidate Genes from 5q31‐q33 in the Singapore Chinese Population
Authors: Parate Pallavi N. , Wang De Yun , Chew Fook Tim
Published: January 2010

Studies have shown linkage between microsatellite markers from the chromosome 5q31‐q33 region with asthma, atopy and total IgE levels in the Singapore Chinese population. However, subsequent case‐control studies failed to show association between the polymorphisms in the candidate genes from this region and asthma or related phenotypes. In this study, we investigated 20 asthma candidate genes from this region for all possible informative polymorphisms within our population, linkage disequilibrium (LD) structure and tagging SNP transferability from HapMap populations. We re‐sequenced these genes and identified 267 polymorphisms including 26 insertion‐deletions, four microsatellite markers and 237 single nucleotide polymorphisms. The region contained 17 distinct LD blocks with the largest within the serine peptidase inhibitor kazal type 5 (SPINK5) gene spanning 23 kb. Of the 267 polymorphisms identified, 40% are represented in HapMap Han Chinese from Beijing and 29% in Han Chinese from Denver. 72% of the polymorphisms can be represented by tagged SNPs from the HapMap Beijing Han Chinese population and are highly correlated in terms of minor allele frequencies and LD structure. Our data suggest that although the HapMap Han Chinese population from Beijing is very similar to the Singapore Chinese population, this similarity is insufficient to account for up to 28% of the polymorphisms in the local population.
Plant glutaredoxins: pivotal players in redox biology and iron–sulphur centre assembly
Authors: Rouhier Nicolas
Published: January 2010

Glutaredoxins are small oxidoreductases structurally related to thioredoxins. They have two major proposed biochemical roles: the reduction of disulphide bonds and the binding of iron–sulphur clusters, both of which involve glutathione. The thiol‐disulphide reductase activity regulates the activity of target proteins, either metabolic enzymes or transcription factors, and also helps to regenerate thiol‐dependent antioxidant enzymes, namely thiol‐peroxidases and methionine sulphoxide reductases, which are key players for the plant response to environmental constraints. In photosynthetic organisms, glutaredoxins are distributed into six classes. Glutaredoxins from class II can exist either as apoforms, which display deglutathionylation activity, or as holoforms, which bind labile [2Fe–2S] clusters and seem to be required for iron–sulphur cluster assembly. This latter role is supported by the ability of the hologlutaredoxins to rapidly and efficiently transfer their clusters to apo‐proteins in vitro. It has been proposed that they can act either as scaffold proteins for the de novo synthesis of iron–sulphur clusters or as carrier proteins for the transfer and delivery of preassembled iron–sulphur clusters.
Online apparel shopping behaviour of South African professional women: the role of consumers' apparel shopping scripts
Authors: Jacobs Bertha , De Klerk Helena M.
Published: January 2010

The purpose of this study was to explore the role that female consumers' apparel shopping scripts play in the adoption of the Internet for apparel purchasing from a social‐cognitive approach. In this study, the focus was on exploring the cognitive structures (shopping scripts) that consumers have and use to make decisions such as adopting the Internet for apparel purchasing. Rogers' adoption of an innovation model was used as theoretical framework for the study, and a social‐cognitive perspective theory (source) was incorporated into this model. A qualitative research strategy was adopted and 24 semi‐structured interviews were held with professional women living in a major city in South Africa. As a stimulus technique, the participants were asked to visit various apparel web sites. Data analysis was done according to the data analysis process proposed by Miles and Huberman. The participants explicitly mentioned that they currently value certain steps, actions and procedures such as touching and scrunching textiles as well as trying on the items before deciding to buy them. They indicated that their current purchasing practices played an important role in their considering whether to adopt the Internet or not. This study is one of the few that have used qualitative research methods to explore consumers' adoption of the Internet for apparel purchasing. The social‐cognitive approach used in this study enables retailers and marketers to study consumers' adoption processes from the consumer's perspective. A limitation of the study is that only professional women, from a homogeneous culture, residing in the same major city, were used as participants. This, however, does not give a representative view of South African online shopping behaviour or of that of a third world country. Future studies are needed, focusing on a more national as well as multicultural perspective.
A preliminary comparative analysis of 3D body scanner, manually taken girth body measurements and size chart measurements
Authors: Zwane Pinkie E. , Sithole Moses , Hunter Lawrance
Published: January 2010

In an attempt to provide a technological solution to the influx of cheap imports in South Africa and bridging the technology divide between Africa and the rest of the world, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research procured a three‐dimensional body scanner from the Textile and Clothing Technology Corporation, in the US. The pilot study was aimed at introducing the technology to the South African consumers, and to compare the scanned data with the manually taken measurements. A convenience sample of 56 females in South Africa was interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Interviews were used to capture views on acceptance of the technology, prior to being scanned. Scanning garments made from a stretchy fabric were designed and sewn in four sizes of small, medium, large and extra large. A covariance, one sample t‐test and paired t‐ tests were used for data analyses. Almost all respondents felt comfortable with the designed scanning garments and the scanning process. The scanner measurements were generally more numerical in value than the manual measurements for a body part as expected, although the disparity was on the higher side than expected. The discernible difference between means of scanned data and standard values in the currently used sizing charts highlighted the long overdue need to update the sizing charts using a national anthropometric database generated locally.
Food choice: student consumers' decision‐making process regarding food products with limited label information
Authors: Van Der Merwe Daleen , Kempen Elizabeth L. , Breedt Sophia , De Beer Hanli
Published: January 2010

Food label information theoretically facilitates consumer decision‐making and food choice, but the extent to which consumers actually use this information during decision‐making is a subject of considerable debate. Therefore, this study focused on the importance of label information in student consumers' decision‐making process when exposed to limited label information food in a cafeteria environment. Because of a paucity of research in this area, a qualitative research approach that was exploratory in nature was used, accompanied by semi‐structured interviewing and a vignette. Undergraduate students from the North‐West University, Potchefstroom Campus, in South Africa served as the target population. The findings suggest that internal and product‐related strategies are applied when food choices are made whereby the importance of label information only features in the latter strategy. Student consumers with a label interest were more inclined to use label information strategies in the absence of complete label information to base food choice on. Those with a lack of label interest made use of alternative strategies using product and personal‐related information, such as freshness and product knowledge to make decisions. The decision‐making process was more complex because of insufficient label information and product appearance, and thus previous experiences and habitual purchasing became more important to participants. Student consumers should be supported to make healthier food choices through food manufacturers supplying cafeteria products with more complete label information and by providing students with the knowledge to use label information correctly through educational programmes.
Altered apolipoprotein E glycosylation is associated with Aβ(42) accumulation in an animal model of Niemann‐Pick Type C disease
Authors: Chua Ching‐Ching , Lim Mei‐Li , Wong Boon‐Seng
Published: January 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 1619–1626.

Neurodegeneration is the final cause of death in Niemann‐Pick Type C (NPC) disease, a cholesterol‐storage disorder. Accumulating evidence indicates that NPC may share common pathological mechanisms with Alzheimer’s disease, including the link between aberrant cholesterol metabolism and amyloid‐β (Aβ) deposition. Apolipoprotein E (apoE) is highly expressed in the brain and plays a pivotal role in cholesterol metabolism. ApoE can also modulate Aβ production and clearance, and it is a major genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Although apoE is glycosylated, the functional significance of this chemical alteration on Aβ catabolism is unclear. In this study using an NPC animal model, we detect specific changes in apoE glycosylation that correlate with increased Aβ(42) accumulation prior to the appearance of neurological abnormalities. This suggests that increased apoE expression could be a compensatory response to the increased Aβ(42) deposition in NPCnih mice. We also observe what appears to be a simplification of the glycosylation process on apoE during neurodegeneration.
Corticosterone up‐regulates expression and function of norepinephrine transporter in SK‐N‐BE(2)C cells
Authors: Sun Zhongwen , Fan Yan , Zha Qinqin , Zhu Meng‐Yang
Published: January 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 10.1111/j.1471‐4159.2010.06587.x

Glucocorticoids affect cellular and molecular events in brains by modulating the expression of many genes during stress. In the present study, we examined the regulatory effect of corticosterone on the expression and function of the norepinephrine transporter (NET) in vitro. The results show that exposure of SK‐N‐BE(2)C cells to corticosterone for 14 days significantly increased mRNA (up to 43%) and protein (up to 71%) levels of NET in the concentration‐dependent manner. Longer exposure (21 days) resulted in greater increases in the levels of mRNAs (up to about 160%) and proteins (up to about 250%) of the NET. The up‐regulatory effect of corticosterone on NET expression lasted a persistent period after cessation of exposure. Associated with the corticosterone‐induced enhancement in NET expression, there was a parallel increase in the uptake of [3H]norepinephrine by SK‐N‐BE(2)C cells. Increased NET expression and function were abolished after exposure of cells to corticosterone in combination with mifepristone or spironolactone, two specific antagonists of corticosteroid receptors. This is consistent with the hypothesis that corticosterone‐induced NET up‐regulation is mediated by corticosteroid receptors. Nevertheless, there was no synergistic effect for a combination of both corticosteroid receptor antagonists. A similar up‐regulation of NET protein levels was also observed after exposing PC12 cells to corticosterone. The present findings demonstrate that corticosterone up‐regulates the expression and function of NET in vitro, indicating the action of corticosterone on the noradrenergic phenotype may play an important role in the correlation between stress and the development of depression.
Ca2+‐dependent reduction of glutamate aspartate transporter GLAST expression in astrocytes by P2X7 receptor‐mediated phosphoinositide 3‐kinase signaling
Authors: Liu Yu‐Peng , Yang Chung‐Shi , Chen Mei‐Chun , Sun Synthia H. , Tzeng Shun‐Fen
Published: January 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 10.1111/j.1471‐4159.2010.06589.x

Astrocytes are responsible for clearance of extracellular glutamate, primarily through glial‐specific glutamate transporter‐1 and the Na+‐dependent glutamate/aspartate transporter (GLAST). After traumatic injury to the CNS, such as spinal cord injury, persistent release of ATP from damaged neurons and activated glial cells occurs, inducing detrimental and/or beneficial effects via activation of ionotropic (P2XR) and metabotropic purinergic receptors. In this study, we show a decrease in GLAST mRNA in the lesion center and caudal portions at 24 h post‐spinal cord injury. In an in vitro system, the ability of astrocytes to take up glutamate and astrocytic GLAST mRNA levels were significantly decreased after exposure to ATP and its P2X7R agonist, 2′‐3′‐O‐(4‐benzoylbenzoyl)‐ATP. ATP‐ or 2′‐3′‐O‐(4‐benzoylbenzoyl)‐ATP‐induced inhibitory effect on GLAST mRNA expression was blocked by the irreversible P2X7R blocker, oxidized ATP, or when P2X7R mRNA expression was reduced by the lentivirus‐short hairpin RNA knockdown approach. Furthermore, deletion of the GLAST promoter and RNA decay assays showed that P2X7R signaling triggered post‐transcriptional regulation of GLAST expression via the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase cascade. The signaling pathway participating in the P2X7R effect on GLAST mRNA expression was identified as a Ca2+‐dependent phosphoinositide 3‐kinase‐phospholipase Cγ involving the inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor, calcium/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II, and protein kinase C. We conclude that P2X7R activation by sustained release of ATP in the injured CNS may decrease GLAST mRNA stability via Ca2+‐dependent signaling, suggesting that inhibition of P2X7R may allow for recovery of astrocytic GLAST function and protect neurons from glutamate‐induced excitotoxicity.
Helicobacter pylori cagA Gene Polymorphism Affects the Total Antioxidant Capacity of Human Saliva
Authors: Wnuk Maciej , Myszka Aleksander , Lewinska Anna , Tokarz Iwona , Solarska Katarzyna , Bartosz Grzegorz
Published: January 2010

Background:  We aimed to evaluate the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of saliva in healthy Helicobacter pylori‐positive and negative saliva individuals.

Materials and Methods:  A total of 102 human saliva samples were checked for the presence of H. pylori DNA (ureA and cagA gene fragments).

TAC of saliva was estimated by ABTS radical cation (ABTS?+) decolorization assay.

Results:  PCR analysis revealed that 36 subjects were ureA‐/cagA‐, 24 were ureA+/cagA‐ and 42 were ureA+/cagA+. Smoking habits had no evident effect on H. pylori infection.

We found that TAC of the ureA‐/cagA‐ material, after 10 seconds reaction reflecting fast‐reacting antioxidants, was significantly higher than of ureA+/cagA‐ and ureA+/cagA+ samples (p < .01 and p < .001, respectively). Similar results were obtained for reaction time of 3 minutes measuring slow‐reacting antioxidants (p < .001). We also estimated ureA+/cagA‐ and ureA+/cagA+ samples alone and reported a statistically significant decrease in the TAC3min value of ureA+/cagA+ compared with ureA+/cagA‐ samples (p < .05).

Conclusions:  Our data demonstrated that altered redox equilibrium may be associated with more frequent occurrence of H. pylori in the saliva samples.
Guidelines for the Management ofHelicobacter pyloriInfection in Japan: 2009 Revised Edition
Authors: Asaka Masahiro , Kato Mototsugu , Takahashi Shin‐ichi , Fukuda Yoshihiro , Sugiyama Toshiro , Ota Hiroyoshi , Uemura Naomi , Murakami Kazunari , Satoh Kiichi , Sugano Kentaro
Published: January 2010

Background: Over the past few years, the profile ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection has changed in Japan. In particular, the relationship betweenH. pyloriand gastric cancer has been demonstrated more clearly. Accordingly, the committee of the Japanese Society for Helicobacter Research has revised the guidelines for diagnosis and treatment ofH. pyloriinfection in Japan.

Materials and Methods: Four meetings of guidelines preparation committee were held from July 2007 to December 2008. In the new guidelines, recommendations for treatment have been classified into five grades according to the Minds Recommendation Grades, while the level of evidence has been classified into six grades. The Japanese national health insurance system was not taken into consideration when preparing these guidelines.

Results: Helicobacter pylorieradication therapy achieved a Grade A recommendation, being useful for the treatment of gastric or duodenal ulcer, for the treatment and prevention ofH. pylori‐associated diseases such as gastric cancer, and for inhibiting the spread ofH. pyloriinfection. Levels of evidence were determined for each disease associated withH. pyloriinfection. For the diagnosis ofH. pyloriinfection, measurement ofH. pyloriantigen in the feces was added to the tests not requiring biopsy. One week of proton‐pump inhibitor‐based triple therapy (including amoxicillin and metronidazole) was recommended as second‐line therapy after failure of first‐line eradication therapy.

Conclusion: The revised Japanese guidelines forH. pyloriare based on scientific evidence and avoid the administrative restraints that applied to earlier versions.
The Epilepsy Genetic Association Database (epiGAD): Analysis of 165 genetic association studies, 1996–2008
Authors: Tan Nigel C. K. , Berkovic Samuel F.
Published: January 2010

We have created the Epilepsy Genetic Association Database (epiGAD, http://www.epigad.org, an online database of epilepsy genetic association studies. A systematic search using several search engines identified 165 studies. Herein we analyze the types of studies available, the sample sizes used, and the strength of the findings. Common questions examined were susceptibility to idiopathic generalized epilepsy, focal epilepsy, or febrile seizures, and pharmacogenomic approaches to drug‐resistant epilepsy. Sample sizes were generally small; 80% of studies had 200 or fewer cases, although more recent studies published from 2005–2008 incorporated slightly larger sample sizes. No association was judged as “strong” using current criteria for assessing genetic associations—this is probably due to inadequate sample sizes. Sample sizes need to increase, either by research collaboration or via systematic reviews and meta‐analyses. We believe epiGAD will facilitate future meta‐analyses.
New open‐source ictal SPECT analysis method implemented in BioImage Suite
Authors: Scheinost Dustin , Teisseyre Thomas Z. , Distasio Marcello , DeSalvo Matthew N. , Papademetris Xenophon , Blumenfeld Hal
Published: January 2010

Ictal single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is a powerful tool for noninvasive seizure localization, but it has been underutilized because of practical challenges, including difficulty in implementing ictal‐interictal SPECT difference analysis. We previously validated a freely available utility for this purpose, ictal‐interictal subtraction analysis by statistical parametric mapping (SPM) (ISAS). To further simplify and improve the difference imaging technique, we now compare a new algorithm, ISAS BioImage Suite (see http://spect.yale.edu and http://bioimagesuite.org), to the original ISAS method in 13 patients with known seizure localization. We found that ISAS BioImage Suite was in agreement with the original algorithm in all cases for which ISAS correctly identified a single unambiguous region of seizure onset. We also tested for possible effects of scan‐order bias in the control group used for the analysis and found no significant effect on the results. These findings establish a simple, validated and objective method for analyzing ictal‐interictal SPECT difference images for use in the care of patients with epilepsy.
Alcohol consumption, unprovoked seizures, and epilepsy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Samokhvalov Andriy V. , Irving Hyacinth , Mohapatra Satya , Rehm Jürgen
Published: January 2010

Purpose: The purpose of this research was to analyze and quantify the association between alcohol consumption and epilepsy as an independent disease, in part operationalized by the occurrence of unprovoked seizures, as well as to examine causality.

Methods: Systematic review, meta‐analysis.

Results: A strong and consistent association between alcohol consumption and epilepsy/unprovoked seizures was found with an overall relative risk (RR) of 2.19 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.83–2.63]. There was a dose–response relationship between the amount of alcohol consumed daily and the probability of the onset of epilepsy. Individuals consuming an average of four, six, and eight drinks daily had RRs of 1.81 (95% CI 1.59–2.07), 2.44 (95% CI 2.00–2.97), and 3.27 (95% CI 2.52–4.26), respectively, compared to nondrinkers. Several pathogenic mechanisms for the development of epilepsy in alcohol users were identified. Most of the relevant studies found that a high percentage of alcohol users with epilepsy would qualify for the criteria of alcohol dependence. Data were inconclusive regarding a threshold for the effect of alcohol, but most studies suggest that the effect may only hold for heavy drinking (four and more drinks daily).

Discussion: The relationship between alcohol consumption and epilepsy and unprovoked seizures was quantified and several pathogenic mechanisms were suggested, although none of them has been proven to be the unique causative pathway for epilepsy. Certain limitations underlying this study require further research to clarify the outstanding statistical issues and pathogenesis of epilepsy in heavy drinkers.
Visual field deficits following anterior temporal lobectomy: Long‐term follow‐up and prognostic implications
Authors: Yam Debbie , Nicolle David , Steven David A. , Lee Donald , Hess Tiiu , Burneo Jorge G.
Published: January 2010

Purpose:  The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of mild (≤90°) versus severe (>90° from vertical) visual field defects (VFDs) in patients after anterior temporal lobectomy (ATL), and their postoperative improvement over time.

Methods:  The angles of postoperative VFDs of 75 patients who underwent ATL were recorded at various time points (1, 2, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36+ months).

Results:  Of all 23 patients who came in for their <1 month postoperative appointment, 65% of patients had surgically induced VFDs <90°, whereas 35% had VFDs >90° postoperatively. Patients in the latter group were reported for suspension of their driver’s license. However, 38% experienced improvement of their VFD to <90° such that their driver’s license could be reinstated. Of patients with any VFD, 18–30% improved on average by a magnitude of 38° within the first year postoperatively.

Discussion:  Although 35% of the VFDs that occur following temporal lobe surgery are severe, approximately 38% of these patients (especially those with starting postoperative VFDs closer to the 90° angle) experience some improvement shortly after surgery. This may increase their chances of having their driver’s license reinstated.
Pattern of P450 expression at the human blood–brain barrier: Roles of epileptic condition and laminar flow
Authors: Ghosh Chaitali , Gonzalez‐Martinez Jorge , Hossain Mohammed , Cucullo Luca , Fazio Vincent , Janigro Damir , Marchi Nicola
Published: January 2010

Purpose: P450 enzymes (CYPs) play a major role in hepatic drug metabolism. It is unclear whether these enzymes are functionally expressed by the diseased human blood–brain barrier (BBB) and are involved in local drug metabolism or response. We have evaluated the cerebrovascular CYP expression and function, hypothesizing possible implication in drug‐resistant epilepsy.

Methods: CYP P450 transcript levels were assessed by cDNA microarray in primary endothelial cultures established from a cohort of brain resections (n = 12, drug‐resistant epilepsy EPI‐EC and aneurism domes ANE‐EC). A human brain endothelial cell line (HBMEC) andnon‐brain endothelial cell line (HUVEC) were used as controls. The effect of exposure to shear stress on CYP expression was evaluated. Results were confirmed by Western blot and immunohistochemistry on brain specimens. Endothelial drug metabolism was assessed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC‐UV).

Results: cDNA microarray showed the presence of CYP enzymes in isolated human primary brain endothelial cells. Using EPI‐EC and HBMEC we found that CYP mRNA levels were significantly affected by exposure to shear stress. CYP3A4 protein was overexpressed in EPI‐EC (290 ± 30%) compared to HBMEC and further upregulated by shear stress exposure. CYP3A4 was increased in the vascular compartment at regions of reactive gliosis in the drug‐resistant epileptic brain. Metabolism of carbamazepine was significantly elevated in EPI‐EC compared to HBMEC.

Discussion: These results support the hypothesis of local drug metabolism at the diseased BBB. The direct association between BBB CYP enzymes and the drug‐resistant phenotype needs to be further investigated.
False Discoveries in Mutual Fund Performance: Measuring Luck in Estimated Alphas
Authors: BARRAS LAURENT , SCAILLET OLIVIER , WERMERS RUSS
Published: January 2010

This paper develops a simple technique that controls for “false discoveries,” or mutual funds that exhibit significant alphas by luck alone. Our approach precisely separates funds into (1) unskilled, (2) zero‐alpha, and (3) skilled funds, even with dependencies in cross‐fund estimated alphas. We find that 75% of funds exhibit zero alpha (net of expenses), consistent with the Berk and Green equilibrium. Further, we find a significant proportion of skilled (positive alpha) funds prior to 1996, but almost none by 2006. We also show that controlling for false discoveries substantially improves the ability to find the few funds with persistent performance.
Individualism and Momentum around the World
Authors: CHUI ANDY C.W. , TITMAN SHERIDAN , WEI K.C. JOHN
Published: January 2010

This paper examines how cultural differences influence the returns of momentum strategies. Cross‐country cultural differences are measured with an individualism index developed by Hofstede (2001), which is related to overconfidence and self‐attribution bias. We find that individualism is positively associated with trading volume and volatility, as well as to the magnitude of momentum profits. Momentum profits are also positively related to analyst forecast dispersion, transaction costs, and the familiarity of the market to foreigners, and negatively related to firm size and volatility. However, the addition of these and other variables does not dampen the relation between individualism and momentum profits.
Myocardial Deformation in Patients with Beta‐Thalassemia Major: A Speckle Tracking Echocardiographic Study
Authors: Cheung Yiu‐fai , Liang Xue‐cun , Chan Godfrey Chi‐fung , Wong Sophia Jessica , Ha Shau‐yin
Published: January 2010

Background: Increasing data suggest that parameters of myocardial deformation are strong indices of ventricular systolic and diastolic function. We sought to determine myocardial deformation of the left ventricle and assess relationship of deformation rates with myocardial iron load in patients with beta‐thalassemia major. Methods: The left ventricular longitudinal, circumferential, and radial myocardial deformation was determined using speckle tracking echocardiography in 42 thalassemia patients aged 24.4 ± 6.4 years. The results were compared with those of 38 age‐matched controls. The rates of longitudinal and circumferential deformation were correlated with cardiac T2* magnetic resonance findings. Results: Compared with controls, patients had significantly greater global systolic radial strain (P = 0.001), but similar global systolic longitudinal (P = 0.12) and circumferential strain (P = 0.84). On the other hand, patients had significantly lower longitudinal systolic strain rate (SR) (P = 0.019), longitudinal early diastolic SR (P = 0.036), and circumferential early diastolic SR (P = 0.04) than controls. The cardiac T2* findings correlated positively with longitudinal (r = 0.44, P = 0.004) and circumferential early diastolic SR (r = 0.37, P = 0.019), but not with the respective systolic SRs and left ventricular ejection fraction (all P > 0.05). Patients with iron overload (T2*< 20 msec), compared to those without, had significantly lower longitudinal (1.45 ± 0.33/sec vs. 1.76 ± 0.27/sec, P = 0.002) and circumferential (1.01 ± 0.31/sec vs. 1.22 ± 0.31/sec, P = 0.03) early diastolic SR. Conclusions: Patients with beta‐thalassemia major have reduced longitudinal systolic SR, longitudinal early diastolic SR, and circumferential early diastolic SR. The rates of diastolic deformation in the longitudinal and circumferential dimensions are inversely related to myocardial iron overload. (Echocardiography 2010;27:253‐259)
Lesions of the Mitral Valve as a Cause of Central Retinal Artery Occlusion: Presentation and Discussion of Two Cases
Authors: Ayati Maryam , Gori Tommaso , Münzel Thomas
Published: January 2010

We present two cases of mitral valve lesions that manifested with unilateral blindness caused by central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO): Case 1. A 68‐year‐old woman was admitted to our clinic for sudden blindness. Retinal artery angiogram showed CRAO. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) documented a mass attached to the ventricular side of the posterior mitral leaflet, which at pathology was identified as a blood cyst. Case 2. A 67‐year‐old man was admitted for a sudden unilateral painless loss of vision. Retinal angiogram documented CRAO, and TEE showed a highly mobile, spherical, lesion on the atrial side of anterior mitral leaflet. In this case, the pathological finding was a degenerated calcified thrombosis. We report on two cases of very rare abnormalities of the mitral valve presenting with a very rare embolic complication, i.e., CRAO. Like for cryptogenic stroke, transesophageal echocardiography plays a central role in the diagnosis of cardiogenic embolic sources. (Echocardiography 2010;27:E1‐E3)
Left Ventricular Torsion Parameters are Affected by Acute Changes in Load
Authors: Burns Andrew T. , Gerche Andre La , Prior David L. , MacIsaac Andrew I.
Published: January 2010

Background: Quantification of left ventricular torsion may provide new indices of systolic and diastolic function. We sought to characterize the effect of acute manipulation of load on cardiac torsion, plecotropy in human subjects. Methods: Simultaneous Millar LV pressure, micromanometry, and echocardiograms were performed on 18 patients (10 male, mean age 66 years) with normal systolic function. Loading was altered sequentially by the administration of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) and saline fluid loading. Echocardiographic speckle tracking imaging was used to quantify LV torsion and event timing was recorded relative to mitral valve opening (MVO). Results: GTN administration decreased preload (LV end diastolic pressure: 15.7 vs 8.4 mmHg, P < 0.001), and afterload (wall stress: 140 vs 84 ×103dyn/cm2, P < 0.02). Administration of fluid increased preload (LVEDP 11.3 vs 18.1 mmHg, P < 0.001) and increased wall stress, but to a lesser extent (102 vs 117 ×103dyn/cm2, P < 0.003). GTN administration augmented peak torsion (8.4 vs 11.0 deg, P < 0.05), increased systolic torsion velocity (46.6 vs 65.3deg/sec, P < 0.01) and resulted in earlier onset of untwisting (–105 vs –127ms, P < 0.05). Fluid loading decreased the proportion of untwisting prior to MVO (39.0 vs 31.0%, P < 0.05), untwisting acceleration (–750 vs –592deg/sec/sec, P < 0.05) and delayed the timing of peak untwisting (–37.0 vs 9.1ms, P < 0.01), but did not affect systolic torsion parameters. Conclusions: Left ventricular torsion parameters are sensitive to acute changes in load and therefore need to be interpreted in the context of current loading conditions. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY 2010;27:407‐414)
Thrombus in a Normal Left Ventricle: A Cardiac Manifestation of Pheochromocytoma
Authors: Wiyono Stefanus A. , Vletter Wim B. , Soliman Osama I.I. , Ten Cate Folkert J. , Geleijnse Marcel L.
Published: January 2010

In this case report, a patient with a thrombus in a normal‐sized and functional left ventricular is described. The thrombus was most likely formed during pheochromocytoma crisis with severe transient wall motion abnormalities. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY 2010;27:195‐197)
Prevalence of periodontal disease and treatment demands based on a German dental survey (DMS IV)
Authors: Holtfreter Birte , Kocher Thomas , Hoffmann Thomas , Desvarieux Moise , Micheelis Wolfgang
Published: January 2010

Holtfreter B, Kocher T, Hoffmann T, Desvarieux M, Micheelis W. Prevalence of periodontal disease and treatment demands based on a German dental survey (DMS IV). J Clin Periodontol 2010. 37: 211–219. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2009.01517.x.

Aim: We assessed the prevalence and extent of periodontitis in Germany. Furthermore, region‐ and gender‐specific differences in periodontal disease prevalence were evaluated.

Material and Methods: The fourth German Dental Health Survey is a national cross‐sectional survey conducted in 2005. Nine hundred and twenty‐five adults (35–44 years) and 1040 seniors (65–74 years) were examined. The survey comprised social‐ and health‐related interviews and dental examinations. Probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were assessed at three sites at 12 index teeth.

Results: Prevalence of CAL3 mm was found in 95.0% in adults and 99.2% in seniors with 68.7% and 91.4% of teeth being affected, respectively. PD4 mm was prevalent in 76.9% and 87.7% in both age groups, respectively. According to the CDC definition considering mesiobuccal and distolingual sites, prevalence of periodontitis was 70.9% and 87.4% in both age cohorts, with one‐fourth and one‐half presenting severe forms, respectively. Periodontal prevalence was significantly higher in male subjects and East German subjects.

Conclusions: Periodontitis was highly prevalent in German adults. To reduce periodontal burden, treatment of periodontal diseases and continuous maintenance should become an integral part in dental practice. Furthermore, health recommendations should be implemented at the community, professional, and individual level.
Bayesian image restoration models for combining expert knowledge on recording activity with species distribution data
Authors: Bierman Stijn M. , Butler Adam , Marion Glenn , Kühn Ingolf
Published: January 2010

Biological atlases are, for many species, the only source of information on their distribution over large geographical areas, and are widely used to inform models of the environmental distribution of species. Such data are not collected using standardized survey techniques, however, and spatial variations in coverage (the relative extent or completeness of records) may lead to variations in the probability that the species will be recorded at locations where it is present (the “recording probability”). If spatial patterns in recording probabilities are correlated with key environmental variables, then biased estimates of the relationships between environmental variables and species distributions may be obtained. We outline a general statistical framework for modelling the environmental distribution of species using, known as Bayesian Image Restoration (BIR). BIR can be used in combination with any species distribution model, but in addition allows us to account for spatial heterogeneity in recording probabilities by utilizing expert knowledge on spatial patterns in coverage. We illustrate the methodology by applying it to maps of the recorded distribution of two plant species in Germany, taken from the German atlas of vascular plants. We find that estimated spatial patterns in recording probabilities for both species are correlated with key environmental variables. Consequently, different relationships between the probability of presence of a species and environmental variables were obtained when the species distribution models were parameterised within a BIR framework. Care must be taken in the application of BIR, since the resulting inferences can depend strongly upon the modelling assumptions that are adopted. Nevertheless, we conclude that BIR has the potential to make better use of uncertain information on species distributions than conventional methods, and can be used to formally investigate the robustness of inferences on the environmental distribution of species to assumptions concerning spatial patterns in recording probabilities.
Productivity and energy partition of late lactation dairy cows during heat exposure
Authors: KIM Kyoung Hoon , KIM Do‐Hyung , OH Young‐Kyoon , LEE Sung‐Sill , LEE Hyun‐Jeong , KIM Dong‐Woon , SEOL Yong‐Joo , KIMURA Nobuhiro
Published: January 2010

Three late‐lactation Holstein cows were used to determine the effects of environmental temperature on performance and energy partitioning. Each cow was housed in a respiratory chamber for 30 consecutive days and exposed to three different conditions of environmental temperature: (i) 20°C and 20°C (20°C), (ii) 25°C and 20°C (25°C), (iii) 30°C and 25°C (30°C) during the day and night, respectively. The temperature was switched in an interval of 10 days. Humidity in the chamber was maintained at 55–65% through the entire experimental period. The daily mean as well as morning and evening rectal temperatures of Holstein cows increased linearly (P < 0.05) as chamber temperature increased. There was a significant linear reduction in dry matter (DM) intake (P < 0.05) and an increase in DM digestibility (P < 0.05). The response in milk yield, however, was not affected by heat stress. There were no significant differences among treatments for intake energy, heat production, net energy for lactation and net energy for gain. This results of this study disagreed with the assumption that late lactation cows gave priority to increasing body tissue at the expense of milk production under thermal stress.
Migration, Diet, or Molt? Interpreting Stable‐Hydrogen Isotope Values in Neotropical Bats
Authors: Fraser Kevin C. , McKinnon Emily A. , Diamond Antony W.
Published: January 2010

Migratory behavior in bats is poorly described, particularly in the Neotropics. Stable‐hydrogen isotope (δD) analysis may allow tracking of altitudinal movements of bats but has not been explored. δD values in rainwater (δDp) deplete linearly with altitude and are reflected in the keratinous tissues of animals through diet. A mismatch between keratin δD (δDk) and that expected at the capture site based on δDp can indicate prior migration. We collected rainwater, claws and hair from eight bat species at two lower‐montane forest sites in Nicaragua. Claw δD for Carollia brevicauda and hair and claws for Desmodus rotundus (known to be non‐migratory) fell within the predicted range based on rainwater (−17 to −60‰) suggesting these tissues were synthesized at the study site. δD tissue values for Artibeus toltecus, Sturnira lilium, Glossophaga soricina, Anoura geoffroyi, and hair for C. brevicauda were more negative than predicted for the capture site (−60‰) suggesting tissue synthesis at higher elevation and migration downslope to the capture site. However, our study area represents the highest elevation in the region; the nearest appropriate higher elevations are 350–500 km away and seasonal migration is expected to be<200 km. Thus we consider that seasonal shifts in δDp (9 to −45‰) may result in differences in species which molt at different times, and that diet may have driven differences in δD. Our results suggest that the effects of molt timing and diet may first need to be understood before δD may be successfully used to track bat movements.
Patterns of Seed Dispersal and Dispersal Failure in a Hawaiian Dry Forest Having Only Introduced Birds
Authors: Chimera Charles G. , Drake Donald R.
Published: January 2010

Dry forests are among the most endangered natural communities in the Hawaiian Islands. Most have been reduced to isolated trees and small forest fragments in which native tree species reproduce poorly. The replacement of native birds by introduced generalists may be contributing to dry forest decline through modification of seed dispersal patterns. To document seed dispersal by introduced birds, we conducted foraging observations on fleshy‐fruited trees and measured seed rain under trees and in adjacent open areas for 1 year in a dry forest dominated by native trees. Although trees covered only 15.2 percent of the study area, 96.9 percent of the bird‐dispersed seeds were deposited beneath them. The Japanese white‐eye (Zosterops japonicus) was the principal dispersal agent. Among bird‐dispersed seeds, those of the invasive tree Bocconia frutescens accounted for 75 percent of all seeds collected beneath trees (14.8 seeds/m2/yr) and the invasive shrub Lantana camara accounted for 17 percent. Although nearly 60 percent of the reserve's native woody species possess fleshy fruits, introduced birds rarely disperse their seeds. Native trees accounted for <8 percent of all bird‐dispersed seeds and are consequently experiencing dispersal failure by falling directly under parent trees. Smaller‐seeded non‐native plants, in contrast, may be benefiting from dispersal by introduced birds. Current dispersal patterns suggest that these readily disseminated non‐native plants may eventually replace the remaining native flora.
Species‐Specific Growth Responses to Climate Variations in Understory Trees of a Central African Rain Forest
Authors: Couralet Camille , Sterck Frank J. , Sass‐Klaassen Ute , Van Acker Joris , Beeckman Hans
Published: January 2010

Basic knowledge of the relationships between tree growth and environmental variables is crucial for understanding forest dynamics and predicting vegetation responses to climate variations. Trees growing in tropical areas with a clear seasonality in rainfall often form annual growth rings. In the understory, however, tree growth is supposed to be mainly affected by interference for access to light and other resources. In the semi‐deciduous Mayombe forest of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the evergreen speciesAidia ochroleuca,Corynanthe paniculataandXylopia wilwerthiidominate the understory. We studied their wood to determine whether they form annual growth rings in response to changing climate conditions. Distinct growth rings were proved to be annual and triggered by a common external factor for the three species. Species‐specific site chronologies were thus constructed from the cross‐dated individual growth‐ring series. Correlation analysis with climatic variables revealed that annual radial stem growth is positively related to precipitation during the rainy season but at different months. The growth was found to associate with precipitation during the early rainy season forAidiabut at the end of the rainy season forCorynantheandXylopia. Our results suggest that a dendrochronological approach allows the understanding of climate–growth relationships in tropical forests, not only for canopy trees but also for evergreen understory species and thus arguably for the whole tree community. Global climate change influences climatic seasonality in tropical forest areas, which is likely to result in differential responses across species with a possible effect on forest composition over time.