bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Populations of subplate and interstitial neurons in fetal and adult human telencephalon
Authors: Judaš Miloš , Sedmak Goran , Pletikos Mihovil , Jovanov‐Milošević Nataša
Published: September 2010

In the adult human telencephalon, subcortical (gyral) white matter contains a special population of interstitial neurons considered to be surviving descendants of fetal subplate neurons [Kostovic & Rakic (1980) Cytology and the time of origin of interstitial neurons in the white matter in infant and adult human and monkey telencephalon. J Neurocytol9, 219]. We designate this population of cells as superficial (gyral) interstitial neurons and describe their morphology and distribution in the postnatal and adult human cerebrum. Human fetal subplate neurons cannot be regarded as interstitial, because the subplate zone is an essential part of the fetal cortex, the major site of synaptogenesis and the ‘waiting’ compartment for growing cortical afferents, and contains both projection neurons and interneurons with distinct input–output connectivity. However, although the subplate zone is a transient fetal structure, many subplate neurons survive postnatally as superficial (gyral) interstitial neurons. The fetal white matter is represented by the intermediate zone and well‐defined deep periventricular tracts of growing axons, such as the corpus callosum, anterior commissure, internal and external capsule, and the fountainhead of the corona radiata. These tracts gradually occupy the territory of transient fetal subventricular and ventricular zones.The human fetal white matter also contains distinct populations of deep fetal interstitial neurons, which, by virtue of their location, morphology, molecular phenotypes and advanced level of dendritic maturation, remain distinct from subplate neurons and neurons in adjacent structures (e.g. basal ganglia, basal forebrain). We describe the morphological, histochemical (nicotinamide‐adenine dinucleotide phosphate‐diaphorase) and immunocytochemical (neuron‐specific nuclear protein, microtubule‐associated protein‐2, calbindin, calretinin, neuropeptide Y) features of both deep fetal interstitial neurons and deep (periventricular) interstitial neurons in the postnatal and adult deep cerebral white matter (i.e. corpus callosum, anterior commissure, internal and external capsule and the corona radiata/centrum semiovale). Although these deep interstitial neurons are poorly developed or absent in the brains of rodents, they represent a prominent feature of the significantly enlarged white matter of human and non‐human primate brains.
The HUDSEN Atlas: a three‐dimensional (3D) spatial framework for studying gene expression in the developing human brain
Authors: Kerwin Janet , Yang Yiya , Merchan Paloma , Sarma Subrot , Thompson Jessica , Wang Xunxian , Sandoval Juan , Puelles Luis , Baldock Richard , Lindsay Susan
Published: September 2010

We are developing a three‐dimensional (3D) atlas of the human embryonic brain using anatomical landmarks and gene expression data to define major subdivisions through 12 stages of development [Carnegie Stages (CS) 12–23; approximately 26–56 days post conception (dpc)]. Virtual 3D anatomical models are generated from intact specimens using optical projection tomography (OPT). Using mapaint software, selected gene expression data, gathered using standard methods of in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, are mapped to a representative 3D model for each chosen Carnegie stage. In these models, anatomical domains, defined on the basis of morphological landmarks and comparative knowledge of expression patterns in vertebrates, are linked to a developmental neuroanatomic ontology. Human gene expression patterns for genes with characteristic expression in different vertebrates (e.g. PAX6, GAD65 and OLIG2) are being used to confirm and/or refine the human anatomical domain boundaries. We have also developed interpolation software that digitally generates a full domain from partial data. Currently, the 3D models and a preliminary set of anatomical domains and ontology are available on the atlas pages along with gene expression data from approximately 100 genes in the HUDSEN Human Spatial Gene Expression Database (http://www.hudsen.org). The aim is that full 3D data will be generated from expression data used to define a more detailed set of anatomical domains linked to a more advanced anatomy ontology and all of these will be available online, contributing to the long‐term goal of the atlas, which is to help maximize the effective use and dissemination of data wherever it is generated.
Exercising attention within the classroom
Authors: HILL LIAM , WILLIAMS JUSTIN H G , AUCOTT LORNA , MILNE JUNE , THOMSON JENNY , GREIG JESSIE , MUNRO VAL , MON‐WILLIAMS MARK
Published: September 2010

Aim  To investigate whether increased physical exercise during the school day influenced subsequent cognitive performance in the classroom.

Method  A randomized, crossover‐design trial (two weeks in duration) was conducted in six mainstream primary schools (1224 children aged 8–11y). No data on sex was available. Children received a teacher‐directed, classroom‐based programme of physical exercise, delivered approximately 30 minutes after lunch for 15 minutes during one week and no exercise programme during the other (order counterbalanced across participants). At the end of each school day, they completed one of five psychometric tests (paced serial addition, size ordering, listening span, digit‐span backwards, and digit‐symbol encoding), so that each test was delivered once after exercise and once after no exercise.

Results  General linear modelling analysis demonstrated a significant interaction between intervention and counterbalance group (p<0.001), showing that exercise benefitted cognitive performance. Post‐hoc analysis revealed that benefits occurred in participants who received the exercise intervention in the second but not the first week of the experiment and were also moderated by type of test and age group.

Interpretation  Physical exercise benefits cognitive performance within the classroom. The degree of benefit depends on the context of testing and participants’ characteristics. This has implications for the role that is attributed to physical exercise within the school curriculum.
COMPARISON OF THE CARDIAC EFFECTS OF β‐ADRENORECEPTOR AGONISTS IN ANAESTHETISED AND CONSCIOUS DOGS
Authors: EINSTEIN ROSEMARIE , GOODMAN A. H. , YEOH EVELYN B. K.
Published: September 2010

The cardiovascular effects of some β‐adrenoreceptor agonists on heart rate, blood pressure and myocardial contractility (maximum rate of change of left ventricular pressure/integrated isometric tension) were measured in pentobarbitone‐anaesthetised and conscious, instrumented greyhounds.

In anaesthetised dogs isoprenaline increased heart rate and myocardial contractility and reduced blood pressure. Prenalterol and RO 363, in equiactive inotropic doses, induced greater increases in heart rate than isoprenaline if blood pressure fell by less than 25 mmHg. Salbutamol had hypotensive activity at all doses and appeared to be a relatively selective inotrope.

None of the agonists caused blood pressure to fall in the conscious dogs. Prenalterol and RO 363 were more effective inotropic stimulants, producing smaller increases in heart rate and more pronounced increases in myocardial contractility. Salbutamol, however, elicited greater increases in heart rate in the conscious animals and the inotropic selectivity demonstrated in the anaesthetised animals was lost.

The direct effects of the β‐adrenoreceptor agonists, without modification by reflexes could be observed in the anaesthetised animals. The differences in the actions of the agonists in the conscious animals appear to be attributable to the state of the baroreceptor reflex control system and the relatively enhanced responsiveness of the heart.
A STUDY OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DOPAMINE AND NORADRENALINE CONTENT AND TRANSMURAL PRESSURE IN THE MESENTERIC ARTERIES OF THE DOG
Authors: AZEVEDO I. , SOARES‐DA‐SILVA P.
Published: September 2010

Transmural pressure was measured in the main trunk and in a proximal branch of the mesenteric artery from normotensive dogs. Dopamine and noradrenaline content were determined in both mesenteric arterial segments.

For each vessel transmural pressure values and dopamine and noradrenaline content were plotted for calculation of linearity of regression. A positive correlation was found between transmural pressure values and catecholamine content in both segments of the mesenteric artery; i.e. in the main trunk and in the proximal branch.

These findings suggest a reciprocal regulation between structure/function of these blood vessels and their sympathetic innervation.
AN ATROPINE‐LIKE INHIBITORY EFFECT OF DMPP ON RAT ISOLATED URINARY BLADDER
Authors: MAGGI C. A. , MANZINI S. , SANTICIOLI P. , MELI A.
Published: September 2010

DMPP inhibits the nerve‐mediated contractions of the rat isolated bladder, its effect being greater in preparations from newborn (2 day old) than adult animals. This effect of DMPP was unaffected by hexamethonium. In preparations from adult animals the effect of DMPP increased with frequency of stimulation and was fully prevented by the presence of atropine.

In bladders from newborn rats low concentrations of furthrethonium (FHR) (10 nM) activated a series of rhythmic contractions which were unaffected by tetrodotoxin and abolished by DMPP through an hexamethonium‐insensitive action. On the other hand DMPP did not affect rhythmic contractions produced by a low concentration of eledoisin (60 nM).

In bladders from adult rats FHR (10 μM) and KCl (30 mM) produced contractures of comparable magnitude. DMPP inhibited, in concentration‐related manner the FHR‐induced tonic contraction but had little effect on that produced by KCl.

These findings indicate that in the rat bladder, DMPP antagonizes selectivity cholinergically‐mediated contractions through a mechanism which is unaffected by hexamethonium or tetrodotoxin. An ‘atropine‐like’ activity of DMPP should be considered.
A model for avian primary moult
Authors: UNDERHILL LES G. , ZUCCHINI WALTER
Published: September 2010

The regression methods frequently used to estimate the parameters associated with primary moult in birds are unsatisfactory. Results obtained using least squares regression, and various ad hoc adaptations, are so obviously incorrect that many authors have fitted lines ‘by eye’ (Newton 1968, Thomas & Dartnall 1971, Elliott et al. 1976, Morrison 1976, Appleton & Minton 1978). In a comparison of seven regression methods, estimates of the average starting date varied between 29 June and 31 July, completion date between 2 and 24 October, and duration of moult between 72 and 109 days for the Redshank Tringa totanus, in spite of the very large sample of 1482 observations (Summers et al. 1983). In this paper we present a new approach to the analysis of primary moult and develop a mathematical model specifically designed for moult data.
Mate desertion by male Great Reed Warblers Acrocephalus arundinaceus at the end of the breeding season
Authors: EZAKI YASUO
Published: September 2010

Male Great Reed Warblers usually take part in the care of offspring as nest defenders and by feeding young, but at the end of the breeding season they desert their mates with eggs or nestlings. Deserted females continue offspring care. Desertion does not depend on the male's mated status (polygynous or monogamous) nor on his past breeding success. Deserted females compensate for the loss of their partners by increasing the frequency of food‐bringing, resulting in a reduction in the amount of time the nestlings are brooded. Although desertion may lead to increased rates of offspring mortality through predation, breeding success of deserted females was high, especially if the male assisted during the early stages. Deserters pay costs by giving up the chance of additional matings and by lowering the reproductive success of existing mates. Male warblers reduce the former cost by choosing the season of desertion and the latter is lowered by the female's high parental ability. A deserter was found to start moulting while his mate was still feeding his nestlings, and an earlier start to the moult may be the primary benefit that he gains.
Unexpected weight gain in resident Antarctic Terns Sterna vittata during the austral winter
Authors: PARMELEE D. F.
Published: September 2010

Antarctic Terns Sterna vittata (Fig. 1) may display two very different migratory behaviours. According to Cooper (1976), the terns breeding on Tristan da Cunha in the South Atlantic fly thousands of kilometers to the coasts of Africa where they moult. Antarctic Terns that inhabit the more southern and colder Antarctic Peninsula region moult on their breeding grounds. An early account of these seemingly resident peninsular terns (Holdgate 1963) leaves little doubt that at least part of the tern population wintered in the vicinity of Arthur Harbor (64°46'S 64°03'W), Anvers Island, west of the Antarctic Peninsula. Watson (1975) stated that adult Antarctic Terns are generally sedentary around many insular breeding stations, moving only to the nearest open water in winter.

During the years 1975 through 1978, 19 tern specimens of different sexes and ages were collected at Arthur Harbor in the non‐breeding season near U.S. Palmer Station. An additional eight terns were collected at sea a short distance from Anvers Island during the non‐breeding season in 1985 (Pietz & Strong, in press). I found that the adult birds taken at the height of winter weighed significantly more than the 150–180 g of a normal breeding Antarctic Tern. This unexpected discovery prompted me to examine the weights of an additional 34 specimens that had been collected at or near Anvers Island during several breeding seasons. By comparing the weights of adult terns by sex, age, and collection date (Fig. 2, Table 1) I found that both males and females weighed significantly more in the winter non‐breeding season (April‐September) than in the summer breeding season (October‐March) (t24 = 6·57, P < 0·001, and t16 = 5·71, P < 0·001, respectively). No significant differences were detected between male and female weights in summer (t23 = 0·76, P > 0·20) or winter (t17 = 1·16, P > 0·20). In short, it appears that body‐weights of adult terns rise rather dramatically following breeding, attain a peak in mid‐winter, and then fall at the approach of the next breeding season (Fig. 2). I suggest that this increased body‐weight is an adaptation to the austral winter rather than simply a recovery from weight loss due to energetic costs of breeding and moulting.
Modelling Spikes in Electricity Prices*
Authors: BECKER RALF , HURN STAN , PAVLOV VLAD
Published: September 2010

During periods of market stress, electricity prices can rise dramatically. Electricity retailers cannot pass these extreme prices on to customers because of retail price regulation. Improved prediction of these price spikes therefore is important for risk management. This paper builds a time‐varying‐probability Markov‐switching model of Queensland electricity prices, aimed particularly at forecasting price spikes. Variables capturing demand and weather patterns are used to drive the transition probabilities. Unlike traditional Markov‐switching models that assume normality of the prices in each state, the model presented here uses a generalised beta distribution to allow for the skewness in the distribution of electricity prices during high‐price episodes.
Multinational Transfer Pricing, Tax Arbitrage and the Arm's Length Principle*
Authors: CHOE CHONGWOO , HYDE CHARLES E.
Published: September 2010

This paper studies the multinational firm's choice of transfer prices when the firm uses separate transfer prices for tax and managerial incentive purposes, and when there is penalty for non‐compliance with the arm's length principle. The optimal incentive transfer price is shown to be a weighted average of marginal cost and the optimal tax transfer price plus an adjustment by a fraction of the marginal penalty for non‐arm's length pricing. Insofar as the tax rates are different in different jurisdictions, the firm optimally trades off the benefits of tax arbitrage against the penalty for non‐arm's length pricing.
Rosiglitazone reverses salbutamol‐induced β2‐adrenoceptor tolerance in airway smooth muscle
Authors: Fogli Stefano , Pellegrini Silvia , Adinolfi Barbara , Mariotti Veronica , Melissari Erika , Betti Laura , Fabbrini Laura , Giannaccini Gino , Lucacchini Antonio , Bardelli Claudio , Stefanelli Fabio , Brunelleschi Sandra , Breschi Maria Cristina
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE β2‐Adrenoceptor agonists are important therapeutic agents in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The regular use of these drugs has been associated with proasthmatic‐like changes that limit their efficacy and increase the risk of severe adverse reactions. We investigated whether the peroxisome‐proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)γ agonist rosiglitazone modulated salbutamol‐induced β2‐adrenoceptor desensitization in vivo and in vitro.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH An in vivo model of homologous β2‐adrenoceptor desensitization, established in guinea‐pigs by administering salbutamol continuously, was used to study the ability of rosiglitazone to prevent β2‐adrenoceptor tolerance. In vitro experiments on human bronchial smooth muscle cells were performed to increase the clinical relevance of the study.

KEY RESULTS In tracheal smooth muscle tissues from desensitized animals, we observed a decrease in the protective effect of salbutamol on carbachol‐induced contraction, a hyperresponsiveness to cholinergic stimuli, a modest underexpression of β2‐adrenoceptor gene and a marked decrease in β‐adrenoceptor number, relative to control values. Treatment with rosiglitazone preserved salbutamol relaxant activity, mitigated carbachol hyperresponsiveness and partially restored β2‐adrenoceptor binding sites in tracheal tissues from homologously desensitized animals. The highly selective PPARγ agonist, GW1929, reproduced the effect of rosiglitazone, in vivo. In vitroβ2‐adrenoceptor desensitization decreased salbutamol‐mediated cAMP production, without affecting forskolin responses and β2‐adrenoceptor expression. Rosiglitazone and 15‐deoxy‐Δ12,14‐prostaglandin J2 restored salbutamol sensitivity in homologously desensitized cells.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These data suggest a potential pharmacodynamic interaction between PPARγ agonists and salbutamol on airway smooth muscle responsiveness, supporting the therapeutic potential of this combination in chronic airway disease.
Anti‐inflammatory effects of the R2 peptide, an inhibitor of transglutaminase 2, in a mouse model of allergic asthma, induced by ovalbumin
Authors: Kim Dae Yong , Park Bum Soo , Hong Gwan Ui , Lee Byung Jae , Park Jung Won , Kim Soo Youl , Ro Jai Youl
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Transglutaminase 2 (TGase 2) expression is increased in inflammatory diseases, and TGase 2 inhibitors block these increases. We examined whether the R2 peptide inhibited the expression of TGase 2 in a mouse model of inflammatory allergic asthma.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH C57BL/6 mice were sensitized and challenged by ovalbumin (OVA) to induce asthma. OVA‐specific serum IgE and leukotrienes (LTs) levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Recruitment of inflammatory cells into bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid or lung tissues and goblet cell hyperplasia were assessed histologically. Airway hyperresponsiveness was determined in a barometric plethysmographic chamber. Expression of TGase 2, eosinophil major basic protein (EMBP), the adhesion molecule vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1, Muc5ac and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) protein were determined by Western blot. Expression of mRNAs of Muc5ac, cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs) were measured by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) by electrophoretic mobility shift assay.

KEY RESULTS R2 peptide reduced OVA‐specific IgE levels; the number of total inflammatory cells, macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes and eosinophils in BAL fluid and the number of goblet cells. Airway hyperresponsiveness, TGase 2 and EMBP levels, mRNA levels of interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐13, RANTES, tumour necrosis factor‐α, and MMP2/9, Muc5ac, NF‐κB activity, PLA2 activity and expressions, and LT levels in BAL cells and lung tissues were all reduced by R2 peptide. R2 peptide also restored expression of TIMP1/2.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS R2 peptide reduced allergic responses by regulating NF‐κB/TGase 2 activity in a mouse model of allergic asthma. This peptide may be useful in the treatment of allergic asthma.
Party Mergers and Splits in New Democracies: The Case of South Korea (1987–2007)
Authors: Park Kyungmee
Published: September 2010

This study explores how a party's organizational mode affects its stability in new democracies. A party organization was stable under these three conditions: when the relationship from lower to upper organizations has institutionalized a strong vertical organization mode; when the central party power is concentrated on the leadership; and when the leadership has been safely shifted after elections. In the case of two ruling parties in South Korea, each mode produced differences in party stability. The dissimilar organization modes of two parties resulted in different organizational stability.
Distribution of the Argentine ant, Linepithema humile, along the Seto Inland Sea, western Japan: Result of surveys in 2003–2005
Authors: OKAUE Masayuki , YAMAMOTO Kazunori , TOUYAMA Yoshifumi , KAMEYAMA Takeshi , TERAYAMA Mamoru , SUGIYAMA Takashi , MURAKAMI Kyouzou , ITO Fuminori
Published: September 2010

The distribution of the Argentine ant, Linepithema humile, was investigated in 65 cities or towns along the Seto Inland Sea, western Japan in 2003–2005. Our results include all available information of their distribution in Japan until 2005. Argentine ants have invaded Aichi Prefecture (Tahara‐shi), Hyogo Prefecture (Kobe‐shi), Hiroshima Prefecture (Hiroshima‐shi, Fuchu‐cho, Hatsukaichi‐shi, Ono‐cho and Otake‐shi), and Yamaguchi Prefecture (Iwakuni‐shi and Yanai‐shi). The most widespread distribution was found around Hatsukaichi‐shi including the westernmost part of Hiroshima‐shi and the easternmost of Ono‐cho.
Morphologic, Genetic, and Biochemical Characterization of Helicobacter Magdeburgensis, a Novel Species Isolated from the Intestine of Laboratory Mice
Authors: Traverso Francisco Rivas , Bohr Ulrich R. M. , Oyarzabal Omar A. , Rohde Manfred , Clarici Alexandra , Wex Thomas , Kuester Doerthe , Malfertheiner Peter , Fox James G. , Backert Steffen
Published: September 2010

Background:  The presence of enterohepatic Helicobacter species (EHS) is commonly noted in mouse colonies. These infections often remain unrecognized but can cause severe health complications or more subtle host immune perturbations and therefore can confound the results of animal experiments. The aim of this study was to isolate and characterize a putative novel EHS that has previously been detected by PCR screening of specific‐pathogen‐free mice.

Materials and Methods:  Biochemical analysis of enzyme activities (API campy), morphologic investigation (Gram‐staining and electron microscopy) and genetic analyses (16SrRNA and 23SrRNA analyses, DNA fingerprinting, restriction fragment polymorphisms, and pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis) were used to characterize isolated EHS. Genomic DNA fragments were sequenced to develop a species‐specific PCR detection assay.

Results:  Scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of spiral‐shaped EHS, which varied in length (2.5–6 μm) and contained single monopolar or single bipolar sheathed flagella. The bacteria were grown under anaerobic conditions, preferably on agar plates containing serum or blood. The 16SrRNA, genetic, and biochemical analyses indicated the identification of a novel EHS species, named Helicobacter magdeburgensis. We also examined the genome content using pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis. Based on the pattern produced by two restriction enzymes, BamIII and KspI, the genome size was determined to be about 1.7–1.8 Mbp.

Conclusion:  We isolated and characterized a novel EHS species, H. magdeburgensis, morphologically, biochemically, and genetically. These results are important for future studies on the prevalence and pathophysiologic relevance of such infections. Our PCR assay can be used to detect and discriminate H. magdeburgensis from other Helicobacter species.
Viability Determination of Helicobacter pylori Using Propidium Monoazide Quantitative PCR
Authors: Agustí Gemma , Codony Francesc , Fittipaldi Mariana , Adrados Bárbara , Morató Jordi
Published: September 2010

Background:  While Helicobacter pylori exists in a bacillary form in both the natural habitat and the human host, detrimental environmental circumstances have been observed to lead to the conversion of H. pylori from the bacillary to the coccoid form. However, the viability or nonviability of coccoid forms remains to be established in H. pylori. The aim of this study was to determine whether the quantitative PCR combined with propidium monoazide could be an alternative and good technique to determine H. pylori viability in environmental samples and, to contribute to understanding of the role of the H. pylori forms.

Materials and Methods:  Viability, morphological distribution, and the number of live H. pylori cells were determined using a propidium monoazide‐based quantitative PCR method, at various time points.

Results:  Under adverse environmental conditions was observed the conversion of H. pylori from the bacillary to the coccoid form, and the decrease in amplification signal, in samples that were treated with propidium monoazide, over the time.

Conclusions:  Incorporation of propidium monoazide indicates that there is an increase in H. pylori cells with the damaged membrane over the study, leading to the manifestation of cellular degeneration and death. Consequently, quantitative PCR combined with propidium monoazide contributes to our understanding of the role of H. pylori cells, under adverse environmental conditions.
Short‐term Therapy with Celecoxib and Lansoprazole Modulates Th1/ Th2 Immune Response in Human Gastric Mucosa
Authors: Larussa Tiziana , Suraci Evelina , Leone Isabella , Nazionale Immacolata , Abenavoli Ludovico , Galasso Olimpio , Amorosi Andrea , Imeneo Maria , Luzza Francesco
Published: September 2010

Background:  Selective cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibitors and proton pump inhibitors may exert immune‐mediated effects in human gastric mucosa. T‐cell immune response plays a role in Helicobacter pylori‐induced pathogenesis. This study evaluated effects of celecoxib and lansoprazole on T‐helper (Th) 1 and Th2 immune response in human gastric mucosa.

Methods:  Dyspeptic patients with or without osteoarticular pain were given one of the following 4‐week therapies: celecoxib 200 mg, celecoxib 200 mg plus lansoprazole 30 mg, and lansoprazole 30 mg daily. Expression of COX‐2, T‐bet, and pSTAT6 and production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), interferon (IFN)‐γ, and interleukin (IL)‐4 were determined in gastric biopsies before and after therapy. Histology was evaluated.

Results:  Cyclooxygenase‐2 expression and PGE2 production was higher, and Th1 signaling pathway was predominant in H. pylori‐infected vs. uninfected patients. T‐bet expression and IFN‐γ production increased, while STAT6 activation and IL‐4 production decreased following therapy with celecoxib and celecoxib plus lansoprazole, respectively. Th1 and Th2 signaling pathways down‐regulated after therapy with lansoprazole, and this was associated with an improvement of gastritis. Effect of therapy was not affected by H. pylori status.

Conclusion:  Celecoxib and lansoprazole modulate Th1/Th2 immune response in human gastric mucosa. The use of these drugs may interfere with long‐term course of gastritis.
Addressing Health and Environment Concerns in Sustainable Development with Special Reference to Participatory Planning Initiatives such as Healthy Cities
Authors: Von Schirnding Y.E.R.
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT

With massive urbanization occurring worldwide, environment and health concerns have reached near‐crisis dimensions in many cities throughout the world. Whilst age‐old environmental health hazards such as unsafe food and water, microbiological contamination of the environment, overall poor sanitation, and inadequate environmental hygiene are today still prevalent, new environment and development problems have emerged, some of which appear to threaten the entire ecosystem.

Environment and health problems today are complex, multidisciplinary in nature, interrelated, and often ill‐defined with uncertain solutions. New and innovative approaches are needed to tackle such problems in the future, with development, environment, and health concerns addressed together in a coordinated and integrated way. The total environment must be supportive of health development.

This paper highlights some of the key milestones in the recent history of the environment and public health fields, which have been instrumental in the development of more integrated approaches to addressing crosscutting environment and health problems, with particular emphasis placed on initiatives such as Agenda 21. It then discusses the concept and philosophy of the successful “Healthy Cities” project, which is an urban health and development project initiated by the World Health Organization to address more effectively health and environment issues at the local level. Other strategies such as the “Sustainable Cities” initiative are also mentioned. Finally, attention is drawn to some of the successes that have been achieved through participatory planning initiatives, and the implications for implementation in respect to institutional restructuring, human resource needs, and information systems are highlighted.
Discussion
Authors: COIRAULT R.
Published: September 2010

As has been shown in 1958, the isolated epileptic seizure is accompanied by an acute extrusion of sodium, with an increase in urinary sodium concentration giving rise to a phenomenon of depolarization.

In the case of recurrent seizures there is no increase in urinary sodium but each seizure is followed by an increase in blood sodium concentration.

In epilepsy of long standing, there is intracellular sodium retention and loss of potassium, calcium and magnesium. These observations confirm the findings obtained by Schneider.

The problem posed by the changes in sodium values is that of intervention of the secretion of adrenocortical hormones, particularly aldosterone. The role of 17‐OH and the influence of triamcinolone and spirolactone must be considered.

La crise épileptique isolée s'accompagne, comme nous l'avons montré en 1958, d'une brutale extrusion de sodium, avec augmentation de la natriurie, réalisant un phénomène de dépolarisation.

S'il s'agit de crises répétées, il n'y a plus augmentation du sodium urinaire mais seulement après chaque crise augmentation du sodium sanguin. Dans l'état de mal épileptique prolongé, il y a une rétention sodée intra‐cellulaire et une fuite de potassium, calcium et magnésium. Nos recherches aboutissent done aux měmes constatations que celles retenues par Schneider.

Les variations sodées posent en particulier le problème d'une intervention de la secrétion des hormones cortico‐surrénales et plus particulièrement de l'aldostérone. Le rǒle des 17‐OH se discute, ainsi que l'influence de la triamcinolone et de la spirolactone.
Greater Prevalence and Incidence of Dementia in Older Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Qureshi Salah U. , Kimbrell Timothy , Pyne Jeffrey M. , Magruder Kathy M. , Hudson Teresa J. , Petersen Nancy J. , Yu Hong‐Jen , Schulz Paul E. , Kunik Mark E.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVES:

To explore the association between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and dementia in older veterans.

DESIGN: Administrative database study of individuals seen within one regional division of the Veterans Affairs healthcare network.

SETTING: Veterans Integrated Service Network 16.

PARTICIPANTS: Veterans aged 65 and older who had a diagnosis of PTSD or who were recipients of a Purple Heart (PH) and a comparison group of the same age with no PTSD diagnosis or PH were divided into four groups: those with PTSD and no PH (PTSD+/PH−, n=3,660), those with PH and no PTSD (PTSD−/PH+, n=1,503), those with PTSD and a PH (PTSD+/PH+, n=153), and those without PTSD or a PH (PTSD−/PH−, n=5,165).

MEASUREMENTS: Incidence and prevalence of dementia after controlling for confounding factors in multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS: The PTSD+/PH− group had a significantly higher incidence and prevalence of dementia than the groups without PTSD with or without a PH. The prevalence and incidence of a dementia diagnosis remained two times as high in the PTSD+/PH− group as in the PTSD−/PH+ or PTSD−/PH− group after adjusting for the confounding factors. There were no statistically significant differences between the other groups.

CONCLUSION: The incidence and prevalence of dementia is greater in veterans with PTSD. It is unclear whether this is due to a common risk factor underlying PTSD and dementia or to PTSD being a risk factor for dementia. Regardless, this study suggests that veterans with PTSD should be screened more closely for dementia. Because PTSD is so common in veterans, this association has important implications for veteran care.
Effect of Hospitalists on Length of Stay in the Medicare Population: Variation According to Hospital and Patient Characteristics
Authors: Kuo Yong‐Fang , Goodwin James S.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVES: To assess how shorter length of stay (LOS) associated with hospitalist care than with care by other physicians varied according to patient and hospital characteristics and to explore whether these differences in LOS changed over time in the Medicare population.

DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study using data from a 5% national sample of Medicare beneficiaries.

SETTING: Hospital.

PARTICIPANTS: To examine temporal trends, 1,981,654 Medicare admissions in 2001 to 2006 at 5,036 U.S. hospitals were used. To examine the influence of patient and hospital characteristics, 314,590 admissions in 2006 were used.

MEASUREMENTS: Hospital LOS.

RESULTS: In multivariable analyses controlling for patient and hospital characteristics, differences in LOS associated with hospitalist care increased from 0.02 fewer days in 2001/02 to 0.22 days in 2003/04 to 0.35 days in 2005/06. For 2006 admissions, differences in LOS were greater in older patients and patients with a higher diagnosis‐related group (DRG) weight. The differences were three times as great for medical as for surgical DRGs, with greater differences in LOS at nonprofit than for‐profit hospitals and at community than teaching hospitals.

CONCLUSION: The shorter LOS associated with hospitalist care would appear to be greatest in older, complicated, nonsurgical patients cared for at community hospitals.
Potentially Reversible Resident Factors Associated with Rejection of Care Behaviors
Authors: Ishii Shinya , Streim Joel E. , Saliba Debra
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVES: To identify the potentially modifiable resident‐level factors associated with rejection of care in nursing home (NH) residents.

DESIGN: Secondary analysis of a 3.0 national field test to revise the Minimum Data Set (MDS).

SETTING: Seventy‐one NHs in eight states.

PARTICIPANTS: Three thousand two hundred thirty NH residents scheduled for MDS assessments from September 2006 through February 2007.

MEASUREMENTS: The potentially mutable characteristics assessed were mood (Patient Health Questionnaire‐9), delirium (Confusion Assessment Method), delusions, hallucinations or illusions, hearing impairment, vision impairment, pain severity, and infection diagnoses. Characteristics considered as covariates were cognition, communication abilities, and impairment in activities of daily living.

RESULTS: Of 3,230 residents assessed, 312 (9.7%) had demonstrated rejection of care in the preceding 5 days. In multiple regression analysis adjusted for covariates, rejection of care was associated with delusions (odds ratio (OR)=3.9; 95% confidence interval (CI)=2.5–6.0), delirium (OR=1.8, 95% CI=1.3–2.4), minor (OR=2.1, 95% CI=1.5–2.8) and major (OR=2.3, 95% CI=1.5–3.4) depression, and severe to horrible pain (OR=1.6, 95% CI=1.1–2.3). Infection diagnoses were not significant in bivariate analysis. Hallucinations or illusions, mild to moderate pain, and hearing and vision impairment were not significant in multiple regression analysis.

CONCLUSION: In this population, delirium, delusions, depression, and severe pain were associated with rejection of care, suggesting that some care rejection behaviors may resolve with appropriate interventions for the identified target conditions if the associations observed are causal.
Effect of a Zoster Vaccine on Herpes Zoster–Related Interference with Functional Status and Health‐Related Quality‐of‐Life Measures in Older Adults
Authors: Schmader Kenneth E. , Johnson Gary R. , Saddier Patricia , Ciarleglio Maria , Wang William W.B. , Zhang Jane H. , Chan Ivan S.F. , Yeh Shing‐Shing , Levin Myron J. , Harbecke Ruth M. , Oxman Michael N. ,   for the Shingles Prevention Study Group
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of a zoster vaccine on herpes zoster (HR)‐related interference with activities of daily living (ADLs) and health‐related quality of life (HRQL).

DESIGN: Randomized double‐blind placebo controlled trial.

SETTING: Twenty‐two U.S. sites.

PARTICIPANTS: Thirty eight thousand five hundred forty‐six women and men aged 60 and olcer.

MEASUREMENTS: HZ burden of interference with ADLs and HRQL using ratings from the Zoster Brief Pain Inventory (ZBPI) and Medical Outcomes Study 12‐item Short Form Survey (SF‐12) mental component summary (MCS) and physical component summary (PCS) scores. Vaccine efficacy was calculated for the modified‐intention‐to‐treat trial population and solely in participants who developed HZ.

RESULTS: For the modified‐intention‐to‐treat population, the overall zoster vaccine efficacy was 66% (95% confidence interval (CI)=55–74%) for ZBPI ADL burden of interference score and 55% (95% CI=48–61%) for both the SF‐12 MCS and PCS scores. Of participants who developed HZ, zoster vaccine reduced the ZBPI ADL burden of interference score by 31% (95% CI=12–51%) and did not significantly reduce the effect on HRQL.

CONCLUSIONS: Zoster vaccine reduced the burden of HZ‐related interference with ADLs in the population of vaccinees and in vaccinees who developed HZ. Zoster vaccine reduced the effect of HZ on HRQL in the population of vaccinees but not in vaccinees who developed HZ.
Relationship Between Quality of Care of Hospitalized Vulnerable Elders and Postdischarge Mortality
Authors: Arora Vineet M. , Fish Melissa , Basu Anirban , Olson Jared , Plein Colleen , Suresh Kalpana , Sachs Greg , Meltzer David O.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVES: To assess the relationship between quality of hospital care, as measured by Assessing Care of Vulnerable Elders (ACOVE) quality indicators (QI), and postdischarge mortality for hospitalized seniors.

DESIGN: Observational cohort study.

SETTING: Single academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS: Patients aged 65 and older who were identified as “vulnerable” using the Vulnerable Elder Survey (VES‐13).

MEASUREMENTS: Adherence to 16 ACOVE measures through chart audit; postdischarge mortality obtained from Social Security Death Index.

RESULTS: One thousand eight hundred fifty‐six inpatient vulnerable older adults were enrolled. Mean quality‐of‐care score was 59.5±19.2%, and 495 (26.7%) died within 1 year of discharge. In multivariate logistic regression, controlling for sociodemographic and disease severity variables (Charlson comorbidity score, VES‐13 score, number of QIs triggered, length of stay, baseline activity of daily living limitations, code status), higher quality of care appeared to be associated with lower risk of death at 1 year. For each 10% increase in quality score, patients were 7% less likely to die (odds ratio=0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.87–1.00; P=.045). In Cox proportional hazard models, hospitalized patients receiving quality of care better than the median quality score were less likely to die during the 1‐year period after discharge (hazard ratio (HR)=0.82, 95% CI=0.68–1.00; P=.05). Patients who received a nutritional status assessment were less likely to die during the year after discharge (HR=0.61, 95% CI=0.40–0.93; P=.02).

CONCLUSION: Higher quality of care for hospitalized seniors, as measured using ACOVE measures, may be associated with a lower likelihood of death 1 year after discharge. Given these findings, future work testing interventions to improve adherence to these QIs is warranted.
Review: Women's Health Module
Authors: Callahan Kathryn E.
Published: September 2010

Virginia Commonwealth University has created a set of interactive programs highlighting important issues for geriatric patients. This review evaluates the Women's Health Module. The module provides a virtual patient and addresses screening and prevention as a woman ages and develops new concerns. The program provides immediate learner feedback, with explanatory resources that the learner may explore. It takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes to complete.
Fighting Against Age Discrimination in Clinical Trials
Authors: Cherubini Antonio , Signore Susanna Del , Ouslander Joe , Semla Todd , Michel Jean‐Pierre
Published: September 2010

At the American Geriatrics Society 2008 Annual Meeting, representatives of two geriatric societies, the European Union Geriatric Medicine Societies and the American Geriatrics Society, and two regulatory agencies, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicine Agency, conducted a roundtable discussion aimed at reviewing the participation of older people in clinical trials. This article summarizes the important issues discussed at the meeting. Historically, regulatory agencies started to promote the inclusion of older participants in clinical trials in the late 1980s. The identification of the causes of delay in including older participants in clinical trials, as well as of the ongoing bias against including older participants with multiple comorbidities, is important to help geriatricians fight against age discrimination in clinical trials. To overcome this problem, geriatrics societies and regulatory agencies must work together to propose new definitions, study designs, and technologies aimed at improving the evaluation of drugs in older people with multiple comorbidities and polypharmacy.
Moody's and S&P Ratings: Are They Equivalent? Conservative Ratings and Split Rated Bond Yields
Authors: LIVINGSTON MILES , WEI JIE (DIANA) , ZHOU LEI
Published: September 2010

We examine the relative impact of Moody's and S&P ratings on bond yields and find that at issuance, yields on split rated bonds with superior Moody's ratings are about 8 basis points lower than yields on split rated bonds with superior S&P ratings. This suggests that investors differentiate between the two ratings and assign more weight to the ratings from Moody’s, the more conservative rating agency. Moody's becomes more conservative after 1998 and the impact of a superior Moody's rating becomes stronger. Furthermore, the differential impact of the two ratings is more pronounced for the more opaque Rule 144A issues.
The Debt‐Payment‐to‐Income Ratio as an Indicator of Borrowing Constraints: Evidence from Two Household Surveys
Authors: JOHNSON KATHLEEN W. , LI GENG
Published: September 2010

Liquidity constraints have been proposed as an important explanation for deviations from the rational expectations/permanent income hypothesis. This paper introduces to the liquidity constraint literature the ratio of a household's debt payments to its disposable personal income, the debt service ratio (DSR). We find that a household with a high DSR is significantly more likely to be turned down for credit than other households. Also, the consumption growth of likely constrained households, identified using the DSR along with the liquid‐asset‐to‐income ratio, is significantly more sensitive to past income than that of other households, confirming the DSR's value in identifying constrained households.
Time Variation in the Inflation Passthrough of Energy Prices
Authors: CLARK TODD E. , TERRY STEPHEN J.
Published: September 2010

From Bayesian estimates of a vector autoregression that allows for both coefficient drift and stochastic volatility, we obtain the following three results. First, beginning in approximately 1975, the responsiveness of core inflation to changes in energy prices in the United States fell rapidly and remains muted. Second, this decline in the passthrough of energy inflation to core prices has been sustained through a recent period of markedly higher volatility of shocks to energy inflation. Finally, reduced energy inflation passthrough has persisted in the face of monetary policy that became less responsive to energy inflation starting around 1985.
The Role of Real Wage Rigidity and Labor Market Frictions for Inflation Persistence
Authors: CHRISTOFFEL KAI , LINZERT TOBIAS
Published: September 2010

We analyze the transmission mechanism of wages to inflation within a New Keynesian business cycle model with wage rigidities and labor market frictions. Our main focus is on the channel of real wage rigidities on inflation persistence for which we find the specification of the wage bargaining process to be of crucial importance. Under the standard efficient Nash bargaining, the feedback of wage rigidities on inflation is ambiguous and depends on other labor market variables. However, under the alternative right‐to‐manage bargaining we find that more rigid wages translate directly into more persistent movements of aggregate inflation.
Association between Population Density and The Market Areas of Towns
Authors: Webber M. J.
Published: September 2010

This paper examines the relationship between population density and town spacing in four kinds of environment. These are: (1) linear curves of demand, transport and production costs and an even population distribution; (2) nonlinear transport cost curves over space; (3) variable population density within hinterlands; and (4) variation of transport costs with population density.

Previously, it has been shown that the criterion of free entry does not uniquely determine town spacing. The implications of four stronger criteria are therefore examined in this paper. These location criteria are: (a) the number of towns is maximized; (b) the number of towns in minimized, subject to all consumers' being served; (c) the towns are all owned by one profit‐maximizing monopolist; and (d) the average of some consumer utility function is maximized. In cases (a), (c), and (d) spacing decreases with density; in (b) spacing is an increasing function of density. Actual data are presented on the spacing of towns in Iowa and shopping centers in Chicago which indicate that spacing and population density are not associated. These results are consistent with the notion that entry is free but are not consistent with the stronger constraints employed in this paper.
A Comparison of Simple Lattice Transport Networks for a Uniform Plain
Authors: Melut Pierre , O'Sullivan Patrick
Published: September 2010

The objective is to compare construction and transport costs for triangular, orthogonal, and hexagonal regular lattices as transport networks serving a uniform, unbounded plain. The lattices are standardized so that the average distance from the elementary area to the edge is the same for each. This standardization results in equal construction costs for the three networks; thus, the comparison can be made in terms of route factors, which favors the triangular lattice over the other two.