bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial DNA Variation in Mauritania and Mali and their Genetic Relationship to Other Western Africa Populations
Authors: González A. M. , Cabrera V. M. , Larruga J. M. , Tounkara A. , Noumsi G. , Thomas B. N. , Moulds J. M.
Published: September 2006

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation was analyzed in Mauritania and Mali, and compared to other West African samples covering the considerable geographic, ethnic and linguistic diversity of this region. The Mauritanian mtDNA profile shows that 55% of their lineages have a west Eurasian provenance, with the U6 cluster (17%) being the best represented. Only 6% of the sub‐Saharan sequences belong to the L3A haplogroup a frequency similar to other Berber speaking groups but significantly different to the Arabic speaking North Africans. The historic Arab slave trade may be the main cause of this difference. Only one HV west Eurasian lineage has been detected in Mali but 40% of the sub‐Saharan sequences belong to cluster L3A. The presence of L0a representatives demonstrates gene flow from eastern regions. Although both groups speak related dialects of the Mande branch, significant genetic differences exist between the Bambara and Malinke groups. The West African genetic variation is well structured by geography and language, but more detailed ethnolinguistic clustering suggest that geography is the main factor responsible for this differentiation.
The role of adenosine A2Aand A3receptors on the differential modulation of norepinephrine and neuropeptide Y release from peripheral sympathetic nerve terminals
Authors: Donoso M. Verónica , Aedo Felipe , Huidobro‐Toro J. Pablo
Published: September 2006

The pre‐synaptic sympathetic modulator role of adenosine was assessed by studying transmitter release following electrical depolarization of nerve endings from the rat mesenteric artery. Mesentery perfusion with exogenous adenosine exclusively inhibited the release of norepinephrine (NA) but did not affect the overflow of neuropeptide Y (NPY), establishing the basis for a differential pre‐synaptic modulator mechanism. Several adenosine structural analogs mimicked adenosine's effect on NA release and their relative order of potency was: 2‐p‐(2‐carboxyethyl)phenethylamino‐5′‐N‐ethylcarboxamidoadenosine hydrochloride = 1‐[2‐chloro‐6‐[[(3‐iodophenyl)methyl]amino]‐9H‐purin‐9‐yl]‐1‐deoxy‐N‐methyl‐β‐d‐ribofuranuronamide = 5′‐(N‐ethylcarboxamido)adenosine >> adenosine > N6‐cyclopentyladenosine. The use of selective receptor subtype antagonists confirmed the involvement of A2Aand A3adenosine receptors. The modulator role of adenosine is probably due to the activation of both receptors; co‐application of 1 nm2‐p‐(2‐carboxyethyl)phenethylamino‐5′‐N‐ethylcarboxamidoadenosine hydrochloride plus 1 nm1‐[2‐chloro‐6‐[[(3‐iodophenyl)methyl]amino]‐9H‐purin‐9‐yl]‐1‐deoxy‐N‐methyl‐β‐d‐ribofuranuronamide caused additive reductions in NA released. Furthermore, while 1 nmof an A2Aor A3receptor antagonist only partially reduced the inhibitory action of adenosine, the combined co‐application of the two antagonists fully blocked the adenosine‐induced inhibition. Only the simultaneous blockade of the adenosine A2Aplus A3receptors with selective antagonists elicited a significant increase in NA overflow. H 89 reduced the release of both NA and NPY. We conclude that pre‐synaptic A2Aand A3adenosine receptor activation modulates sympathetic co‐transmission by exclusively inhibiting the release of NA without affecting immunoreactive (ir)‐NPY and we suggest separate mechanisms for vesicular release modulation.
Constitutively expressed catalytic proteasomal subunits are up‐regulated during neuronal differentiation and required for axon initiation, elongation and maintenance
Authors: Klimaschewski Lars , Hausott Barbara , Ingorokva Shota , Pfaller Kristian
Published: September 2006

Inhibition of the proteasome by lactacystin, a specific blocker of the catalytic β‐subunits, results in transient neurite outgrowth by neuronal cell lines. Vice versa, as demonstrated in this study, treatment of pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells with nerve growth factor (NGF) or other differentiating agents reduces proteasomal activity. This is accompanied by an increase in mRNA and protein levels of the catalytically active subunits β1, β2 and β5, but not of their inducible counterparts, indicating changes in subunit composition of the proteasome during neuronal differentiation. In contrast to neuronal cell lines, however, pre‐treatment of primary neurons with proteasome inhibitors completely prevents axon formation, and lower concentrations of lactacystin (0.5–5 µm) significantly reduce axonal elongation and branching in vitro. Furthermore, established axonal networks degenerate rapidly and long‐term survival of peripheral neurons is impaired in the presence of proteasome inhibitors. Axonal pathology is reminiscent of the morphological changes observed in neurodegenerative disorders and supports a crucial role of the constitutive catalytic subunits in axon initiation, maintenance and regeneration.
Erythropoietin reduces perihematomal inflammation and cell death with eNOS and STAT3 activations in experimental intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Lee Soon‐Tae , Chu Kon , Sinn Dong‐In , Jung Keun‐Hwa , Kim Eun‐Hee , Kim Se‐Jeong , Kim Jeong‐Min , Ko Song‐Yi , Kim Manho , Roh Jae‐Kyu
Published: September 2006

Erythropoietin (EPO), a pleiotropic cytokine involved in erythropoiesis, is tissue‐protective in ischemic, traumatic, toxic and inflammatory injuries. In this study, we investigated the effect of EPO in experimental intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Two hours after inducing ICH via the stereotaxic infusion of collagenase, recombinant human EPO (500 or 5000 IU/kg, ICH + EPO group) or PBS (ICH + vehicle group) was administered intraperitoneally, then once daily afterwards for 1 or 3 days. ICH + EPO showed the better functional recovery in both rotarod and modified limb placing tests. The brain water content was decreased in ICH + EPO dose‐dependently, as compared with ICH + vehicle. The effect of EPO on the brain water content was inhibited by N(omega)‐Nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L‐NAME, 10 mg/kg). Mean hemorrhage volume was also decreased in ICH + EPO. EPO reduced the numbers of TUNEL +, myeloperoxidase + or OX‐42 + cells in the perihematomal area. In addition, EPO reduced the mRNA level of TNF‐α, Fas and Fas‐L, as well as the activities of caspase‐8, 9 and 3. EPO treatment showed up‐regulations of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and p‐eNOS, pAkt, pSTAT3 and pERK levels. These data suggests that EPO treatment in ICH induces better functional recovery with reducing perihematomal inflammation and apoptosis, coupled with activations of eNOS, STAT3 and ERK.
Basal somatodendritic dopamine release requires snare proteins
Authors: Fortin Gabriel D. , Desrosiers Catherine C. , Yamaguchi Nobuharu , Trudeau Louis‐Éric
Published: September 2006

Dopaminergic neurons have the capacity to release dopamine not only from their axon terminals, but also from their somatodendritic compartment. The actual mechanism of somatodendritic dopamine release has remained controversial. Here we established for the first time a rat primary neuron culture model to investigate this phenomenon and use it to study the mechanism under conditions of non‐stimulated spontaneous firing (1–2 Hz). We found that we can selectively measure somatodendritic dopamine release by lowering extracellular calcium to 0.5 mm, thus confirming the previously established differential calcium sensitivity of somatodendritic and terminal release. Dopamine release measured under these conditions was dependent on firing activity and independent of reverse transport through the plasma membrane. We found that treatment with botulinum neurotoxins A and B strongly reduced somatodendritic dopamine release, thus demonstrating the requirement for SNARE proteins SNAP‐25 and synaptobrevin. Our work is the first to provide such direct and unambiguous evidence for the involvement of an exocytotic mechanism in basal spontaneous somatodendritic dopamine release.
Ethanol inhibition of NMDA receptors under conditions of altered protein kinase A activity
Authors: Xu Minfu , Woodward John J.
Published: September 2006

N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptors (NMDA) are glutamate‐activated ligand‐gated ion channels that participate in diverse forms of synaptic plasticity as well as glutamate‐dependent excitotoxicity. Inhibition of the NMDA receptor function may underlie some of the behavioral actions associated with acute exposure to ethanol. The sensitivity of NMDA receptors to ethanol is influenced by the subunit composition of the receptor and, by association, with certain cytoskeletal proteins. Previous studies have also suggested that phosphorylation may regulate the sensitivity of NMDA receptors to ethanol. In this study, the ethanol inhibition of recombinant NMDA receptor currents was determined under conditions designed to enhance or inhibit the activity of protein kinase A (PKA). Human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells were transfected with cDNAs encoding NMDA subunits and channel activity was monitored with whole‐cell patch‐clamp electrophysiology. Under control recording conditions, ethanol (100 mm) inhibited NR1/2A and NR1/2B receptor currents by approximately 25–30%. The degree of ethanol inhibition was not affected or was slightly enhanced under conditions designed to enhance PKA activity. This included treatment of cells with cAMP analogs, inclusion of phosphatase inhibitors or purified PKA in the pipette filling solution, co‐expression of catalytically active PKA, expression of the NR1 PKA‐site phosphorylation site mimic (S897D) or by co‐expression of the PKA scaffolding protein yotiao or the dopamine D1 receptor. Ethanol inhibition of NR1/2A and NR1/2B receptors was not altered when PKA effects were suppressed, either by co‐expression of a PKI inhibitory peptide or the phosphorylation‐deficient NR1 mutants (S897A, S896A, S896A/S897A). In addition, ethanol inhibition of NMDA‐induced currents in cultured cortical or hippocampal neurons was not affected by modulators of PKA. These results suggest that PKA does not appear to play a major role in determining the acute ethanol sensitivity of NMDA receptors.
Development and characterization of SSR markers in lychee (Litchi chinensis)
Authors: MINGFANG LI , XUEQING ZHENG , YONGQIANG ZHU , XIANGSHE WANG , SUYU LIANG , LEI LI , XINGRONG WU
Published: September 2006

Sixteen microsatellite loci were isolated from lychee (Litchi chinensis), all of which exhibited polymorphism (two or three alleles per locus), with levels of heterozygosity ranging from 0.021 to 0.900. These loci can help assess the genetic structure of lychee.
Development of an Algorithm to Identify Pregnancy Episodes in an Integrated Health Care Delivery System
Authors: Hornbrook Mark C. , Whitlock Evelyn P. , Berg Cynthia J. , Callaghan William M. , Bachman Donald J. , Gold Rachel , Bruce F. Carol , Dietz Patricia M. , Williams Selvi B.
Published: September 2006

Objective. To develop and validate a software algorithm to detect pregnancy episodes and maternal morbidities using automated data.

Data Sources/Study Setting. Automated records from a large integrated health care delivery system (IHDS), 1998–2001.

Study Design. Through complex linkages of multiple automated information sources, the algorithm estimated pregnancy histories. We evaluated the algorithm's accuracy by comparing selected elements of the pregnancy history obtained by the algorithm with the same elements manually abstracted from medical records by trained research staff.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods. The algorithm searched for potential pregnancy indicators within diagnosis and procedure codes, as well as laboratory tests, pharmacy dispensings, and imaging procedures associated with pregnancy.

Principal Findings. Among 32,847 women with potential pregnancy indicators, we identified 24,680 pregnancies occuring to 21,001 women. Percent agreement between the algorithm and medical records review on pregnancy outcome, gestational age, and pregnancy outcome date ranged from 91 percent to 98 percent. The validation results were used to refine the algorithm.

Conclusions. This pregnancy episode grouper algorithm takes advantage of databases readily available in IHDS, and has important applications for health system management and clinical care. It can be used in other settings for ongoing surveillance and research on pregnancy outcomes, pregnancy‐related morbidities, costs, and care patterns.
Socioeconomic and Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Discussion of Cancer Screening: “Between‐” versus “Within‐” Physician Differences
Authors: Bao Yuhua , Fox Sarah A. , Escarce José J.
Published: September 2006

Objective. To determine the extent to which socioeconomic and racial/ethnic differences in cancer screening discussion between a patient and his/her primary care physician are due to “within‐physician” differences (the fact that patients were treated differently by the same physicians) versus “between‐physician” differences (that they were treated by a different group of physicians).

Data Sources. We use data from the baseline patient and physician surveys of two community trials from the Communication in Medical Care (CMC) research series. The two studies combined provide an analysis sample of 5,978 patients ages 50–80 nested within 191 primary care physicians who practiced throughout Southern California.

Study Design. Our main outcomes of interest are whether the physician has ever talked to the patient about fecal occult blood test (FOBT; for colorectal cancer screening), mammogram (for breast cancer screening, female patients only) and the prostate‐specific antigen test (PSA, male patients only). We consider five racial/ethnic groups: non‐Hispanic white, non‐Hispanic black, Hispanic, Asian, and other race/ethnicity. We measure socioeconomic status by both income and education. For each type of cancer screening discussion, we first estimate a probit model that includes patient characteristics as the only covariates to assess the overall differences. We then add physician fixed effects to derive estimates of “within‐” versus “between‐” physician differences.

Principal Findings. There was a strong education gradient in the discussion of all three types of cancer screening and most of the education differences arose within physicians. Disparities by income were less consistent across different screening methods, but seemed to have arisen mainly because of “between‐physician” differences. Asians were much less likely, compared with whites, to have received discussion about FOBT and PSA and these differences were mainly “within‐physician” differences. Black female patients, however, were much more likely, compared with whites treated by the same physicians, to have discussed mammogram with their physicians.

Conclusions. Differences in cancer screening discussion along the different dimensions of patient SES may have arisen because of very different mechanisms and therefore call for a combination of interventions. Physicians need to be aware of the persistent disparities by patient education in clinical communication regarding cancer screening and tailor their efforts to the needs of low‐education patients. Quality‐improvement efforts targeted at physicians practicing in low‐income communities may also be effective in addressing disparities in cancer screening communication by patient income.
Bottom‐Up Federalism: The Diffusion of Antismoking Policies from U.S. Cities to States
Authors: Shipan Charles R. , Volden Craig
Published: September 2006

Studies of policy diffusion often focus on the horizontal spread of enactments from one state to another, paying little or no attention to the effects of local laws on state‐level adoptions. For example, scholars have not tested whether local policy adoptions make state action more likely (through a snowball effect) or less likely (through a pressure valve effect). This study conducts the first comprehensive analysis of vertical policy diffusion from city governments to state governments, while simultaneously examining the influence of state‐to‐state and national‐to‐state diffusion. Focusing on three different types of antismoking laws, we find evidence that policies do bubble up from city governments to state governments. State politics are crucial to this relationship, however, as local‐to‐state diffusion is contingent on the level of legislative professionalism and the strength of health advocates in the state.
Informed Lending and Security Design
Authors: INDERST ROMAN , MUELLER HOLGER M.
Published: September 2006

We examine the role of security design when lenders make inefficient accept or reject decisions after screening projects. Lenders may be either “too conservative,” in which case they reject positive‐NPV projects, or “too aggressive,” in which case they accept negative‐NPV projects. In the first case, the uniquely optimal security is debt. In the second case, it is levered equity. In equilibrium, profitable projects that are relatively likely to break even are financed with debt, while less profitable projects are financed with equity. Highly profitable projects are financed by uninformed arm's‐length lenders.
A Nonlinear Factor Analysis of S&P 500 Index Option Returns
Authors: JONES CHRISTOPHER S.
Published: September 2006

Growing evidence suggests that extraordinary average returns may be obtained by trading equity index options, and that at least part of this abnormal performance is attributable to volatility and jump risk premia. This paper asks whether such priced risk factors are alone sufficient to explain these average returns. To provide an answer in as general as possible a setting, I estimate a flexible class of nonlinear models using all S&P 500 Index futures options traded between 1986 and 2000. The results show that priced factors contribute to these expected returns but are insufficient to explain their magnitudes, particularly for short‐term out‐of‐the‐money puts.
Business Groups and Tunneling: Evidence from Private Securities Offerings by Korean Chaebols
Authors: BAEK JAE‐SEUNG , KANG JUN‐KOO , LEE INMOO
Published: September 2006

We examine whether equity‐linked private securities offerings are used as a mechanism for tunneling among firms that belong to a Korean chaebol. We find that chaebol issuers involved in intragroup deals set the offering prices to benefit their controlling shareholders. We also find that chaebol issuers (member acquirers) realize an 8.8% (5.8%) higher (lower) announcement return than do other types of issuers (acquirers) if they sell private securities at a premium to other member firms, and if the controlling shareholders receive positive net gains from equity ownership in issuers and acquirers. These results are consistent with tunneling within business groups.
Lending Booms and Lending Standards
Authors: DELL'ARICCIA GIOVANNI , MARQUEZ ROBERT
Published: September 2006

We examine how the informational structure of loan markets interacts with banks' strategic behavior in determining lending standards, lending volume, and the aggregate allocation of credit. We show that, as banks obtain private information about borrowers and information asymmetries across banks decrease, banks may loosen their lending standards, leading to an equilibrium with deteriorated bank portfolios, lower profits, and expanded aggregate credit. These lower standards are associated with greater aggregate surplus and greater risk of financial instability. We therefore provide an explanation for the sequence of financial liberalization, lending booms, and banking crises observed in many emerging markets.
A Pilot Study Examining the Performance of Polynomial‐Modeled Ventricular Shock Electrograms for Rhythm Discrimination in Implantable Devices
Authors: WILLIAMS JEFFREY L. , SHUSTERMAN VLADIMIR , SABA SAMIR
Published: September 2006

Background: Inappropriate shocks continue to be a problem for patients with implantable defibrillators (ICD). We evaluated the performance of polynomial‐modeled ventricular electrograms (EGM) to discriminate between supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and ventricular tachycardia (VT).

Methods: Seven sets of EGM from patients having both SVT and VT documented during a single ICD interrogation were included. The cardiac cycle was analyzed off‐line in two parts, QR and RQ segments, which were modeled separately using third‐order and sixth‐order polynomial equations, respectively. These segments were then analyzed to determine which polynomial coefficients were most significant for rhythm discrimination.

Results: When analyzing the QR segment during arrhythmia, there were statistically significant (P < 0.05) correlations in 4 of 4 (100%) of the QR coefficients when comparing normal sinus rhythm (NSR) to SVT and 2 of 4 (50%) when comparing NSR to VT or SVT to VT. When analyzing the RQ segment during arrhythmia, there were statistically significant (P < 0.05) correlations in 4 of 7 (57%) of the RQ coefficients when comparing NSR to SVT, 5 of 7 (71%) when comparing NSR to VT, and 3 of 7 (43%) when comparing SVT to VT. Using a cutoff value of 50% change from NSR, the ratio of first‐order to zero‐order QR coefficient was able to completely separate VT from SVT (P = 0.03) in this series of patients.

Conclusion: Our data demonstrate the feasibility of simple polynomial equations that reproduce the depolarization and repolarization phases of human ventricular shock EGM. The ratio of first‐order to zero‐order QR coefficient was able to reliably discriminate between SVT and VT while reducing the polynomial model to a first‐order system. The results of this pilot trial may serve as the basis for a larger prospective trial implementing a discrimination algorithm for use in low computational power implantable devices.
Mechanical Esophageal Deflection During Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: HERWEG BENGT , JOHNSON NANCY , POSTLER GILBERT , CURTIS ANNE B. , BAROLD S. SERGE , ILERCIL ARZU
Published: September 2006

To prevent esophageal damage during ablation of atrial fibrillation, we developed a technique to move the esophagus away from a desired ablation site too close to the esophagus. Under fluoroscopy, a transesophageal echocardiography probe was used to deflect the barium‐opacified esophagus from the ablation site. This technique was successfully employed in three patients where critical sites of the posterior left atrial wall were very close to the esophagus.
From Gene Therapy and Stem Cells to Clinical Electrophysiology
Authors: YANKELSON LIOR , GEPSTEIN LIOR
Published: September 2006

Gene therapy, cell therapy, and tissue engineering are emerging as novel experimental therapeutic paradigms for a variety of cardiovascular disorders. In the current report we will review the possible implications of these emerging technologies in the field of cardiac electrophysiology. Initially, the possible role of myocardial gene and cell therapies in creating a biological alternative to electronic pacemakers for the treatment of bradyarrhythmias will be discussed. This will be followed by a description of the possible applications of using similar strategies for the treatment of common tachyarrhythmias. Finally, the electrophysiological implications of cardiac stem cell therapy for heart failure, as well as the possible in vitro applications of stem cell technology for electrophysiological studies and drug screening, will be discussed. While these emerging strategies provide a paradigm shift from conventional treatment modalities, this field is still at its infancy and several obstacles, discussed in this review, should be overcome before any clinical breakthroughs can be expected.
Spontaneous Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia after Administration of Pilsicainide in a Patient Resuscitated from Ventricular Fibrillation
Authors: SADANAGA TSUNEAKI , ARAKI SATOSHI , TANAKA YASUAKI , OGAWA HISAO
Published: September 2006

We performed a pilsicainide challenge test in a 38‐year‐old man who was resuscitated from ventricular fibrillation without apparent baseline electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormality. His father had a history of ventricular fibrillation and his brother had multiple episodes of syncope. Pilsicainide (1 mg/kg) induced short coupled ventricular premature beats followed by repetitive polymorphic ventricular tachycardia without apparent J wave and ST elevation, and excessive changes in QRS duration and QT interval. An implantable cardioverter defibrillator was implanted.
Ventricular Fibrillation in a Patient with Prominent J Wave in the Inferior and Lateral Electrocardiographic Leads After Gastrostomy
Authors: KOMIYA NORIHIRO , IMANISHI RYO , KAWANO HIROAKI , SHIBATA RIYAKO , MORIYA MANABU , FUKAE SATOKI , DOI YOSHIYUKI , NAKAO KOJIRO , SETO SHINJI , YANO KATSUSUKE
Published: September 2006

We describe the case of a 39‐year‐old man who experienced a ventricular fibrillation storm related to a prominent J wave in the inferior and lateral electrocardiographic leads on the day after gastrostomy. The J wave slowly decreased after amiodarone therapy (400 mg/day) was started, and ventricular fibrillation disappeared.
Upgrading Patients with Chronic Defibrillator Leads to a Biventricular System and Reducing Patient Risk: Contralateral LV Lead Placement
Authors: FOX DAVID J. , PETKAR SANJIV , DAVIDSON NEIL C. , FITZPATRICK ADAM P.
Published: September 2006

Increasing numbers of patients with indwelling single‐ or dual‐ chamber internal cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) will require upgrading of an existing system to a biventricular ICD providing cardiac resynchronization with back‐up defibrillation. Upgrading, usually by the addition of a new left ventricular (LV) lead, can be technically challenging with central venous occlusion or stenosis often being the main obstacle to a successful procedure. We report a new technique of implanting a LV lead from the contralateral side to the existing ICD system to minimize the peri‐ and postoperative risk to the patient.
Underestimation of Pacing Threshold as Determined by an Automatic Ventricular Threshold Testing Algorithm
Authors: SAUER WILLIAM H. , COOPER JOSHUA M. , LAI REBECCA W. , VERDINO RALPH J.
Published: September 2006

In this case report, we describe markedly different pacing thresholds determined by a manual threshold test and the automatic Ventricular Capture Management algorithm. The discrepancy in pacing threshold values reported was due to the difference in the AV intervals used with the different testing methods. We propose that the differences in right ventricular dimensions with altered diastolic filling periods affected the threshold in this patient with a new passive fixation lead in the right ventricular apex.
Acute Hyperglycemia Induced by Oral Glucose Loading Suppresses Coronary Microcirculation on Transthoracic Doppler Echocardiography in Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Fujimoto Kohei , Hozumi Takeshi , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Tokai Kotaro , Shimada Kenei , Yoshiyama Minoru , Homma Shunichi , Yoshikawa Junichi
Published: September 2006

Objectives: We sought to evaluate the effect of acute hyperglycemia on coronary microcirculation by noninvasive measurement of coronary flow velocity reserve (CFVR) using transthoracic Doppler echocardiography (TTDE). Research Design and Methods: Measurements of CFVR using TTDE and levels of plasma glucose and serum insulin and lipids were determined before and 1 hour after loading with oral glucose (75‐g glucose) in 10 young healthy males (mean age, 30 ± 2 years) or an artificial sweetener in five of the 10 subjects without coronary risk factors. Results: In all subjects, the levels of plasma glucose and serum insulin significantly increased after glucose loading compared with baseline (5.1 ± 0.6 vs 7.6 ± 1.2 mM/l, 6 ± 3 vs 49 ± 13 μU/ml, respectively; P < 0.0001). CFVR was significantly decreased 1 hour after acute oral glucose loading (4.4 ± 0.7–3.8 ± 0.7, respectively; P < 0.01). There was no significant change in CFVR after loading with an artificial sweetener (4.4 ± 0.6–4.4 ± 0.5 cm/sec). Conclusions: TTDE revealed that acute hyperglycemia induced by oral glucose loading suppresses CFVR in healthy young male subjects. This result suggests that acute hyperglycemia may have adverse effects on coronary microcirculation.
Assessment of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Using Long‐Axis Systolic Function Is Independent of Image Quality: A Study of Tissue Doppler Imaging and M‐Mode Echocardiography
Authors: Yuda Satoshi , Inaba Yoshie , Fujii Sakiko , Kokubu Nobuaki , Yoshioka Takuji , Sakurai Seiichiro , Nishizato Kimio , Fujii Noriyuki , Hashimoto Akiyoshi , Uno Kikuya , Nakata Tomoaki , Tsuchihashi Kazufumi , Miura Tetsuji , Ura Nobuyuki , Natori Hiroshi , Shimamoto Kazuaki
Published: September 2006

Background: Quantitative assessment of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is technically difficult in patients with poor image quality (IQ). Mitral annulus velocity assessed by pulsed tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and mitral annulus motion assessed by M‐mode echocardiography has been shown to correlate with LVEF. Furthermore, mitral annulus sites are easy to identify even in patients with poor IQ. The purpose of this study was to determine whether these methods are useful for estimating LVEF in patients with poor IQ. Methods: One hundred ten patients underwent TDI and M‐mode echocardiography simultaneously. Mitral annulus velocity and mitral annulus motion were obtained from each of the four mitral annulus sites. Mean mitral annular peak systolic velocities (Sm) and mean mitral annular motions (MAM) were calculated by averaging at each site. IQ was defined according to a previous report. Results: Both Sm and MAM were successfully measured in all patients. Mean Sm and mean MAM correlated with LVEF. These correlations were observed not only in patients with good IQ (p < 0.001, r = 0.61 for mean Sm; p < 0.001, r = 0.61 for mean MAM) or fair IQ (p < 0.001, r = 0.58 for mean Sm; p < 0.001, r = 0.68 for mean MAM) but also in patients with poor IQ (p < 0.05, r = 0.42 for mean Sm, p < 0.001, r = 0.61 for mean MAM). Using optimal cutoff values of mean Sm and mean MAM in each IQ group, sensitivity and specificity for identifying LVEF < 50% were comparable among three IQ groups. Conclusions: Assessment of long‐axis systolic function by TDI and M‐mode echocardiography enables estimation of LVEF even in patients with poor IQ.
Belief in transforming another person into a wolf: could it be a variant of lycanthropy?
Authors: Nejad A. G.
Published: September 2006

Objective:  Lycanthropy is a rare psychiatric condition in which the patient believes in being transformed into an animal. Belief in the transformation of another person into an animal has not been reported, so far. Here, a patient with an impression of bipolar mood disorder (mixed type) and such delusion is reported.

Method:  A single case is reported.

Results:  A young male patient in his first psychiatric episode, developed delusional conviction of his mother's transformation into a wolf. He did not have any delusions regarding the transformation of himself into an animal, although he reported drooling for months before developing a delusional belief regarding his mother.

Conclusion:  Belief in the transformation of another person into an animal may have similar roots as lycanthropy and could be considered as a variant of this syndrome.
Effects of metronidazole plus amoxicillin as the only therapy on the microbiological and clinical parameters of untreated chronic periodontitis
Authors: López Néstor J. , Socransky Sigmund S. , Da Silva Isabel , Japlit Michele R. , Haffajee Anne D.
Published: September 2006

Aim: To determine the effect of metronidazole plus amoxicillin (M+A) as the sole therapy, on the subgingival microbiota of chronic periodontitis.

Material and Methods: Twenty‐two patients with untreated chronic periodontitis were randomly assigned to a group that received M+A for 7 days, or to a group receiving scaling and root planing (SRP) and two placebos. Clinical measurements including sites with plaque, bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD) and attachment level (AL) were made at baseline, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Subgingival plaque samples were taken from all teeth at baseline 3, 6, 9 and 12 months for the counts of 40 subgingival species using checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization.

Results: Mean PD was reduced from 2.80±0.45 at baseline to 1.95±0.05 at 12 months (P<0.001) and from 2.39±0.41 to 1.95±0.10 (P<0.001) in the M+A‐ and SRP‐treated patients, respectively. Corresponding values for relative mean AL were 10.07±1.30–9.77±0.34 (P<0.001) and 9.94±0.28–9.77±0.26 (P<0.001). Percentage of sites exhibiting BOP were 40.6±18.3‐14.0±1.4 (P<0.001), and 38.5±5.1–19.0±2.8 (P<0.001) in the M+A and SRP groups, respectively. Mean total DNA probe counts and counts of the majority of the 40 test species were significantly reduced over time in both groups, with no significant differences detected at any time point between groups. At 12 months many of the species were still present at significantly lowered levels compared with their baseline counts in both groups.

Conclusions: Changes in clinical and microbiological parameters were similar after receiving systemically administered M+A as the sole therapy or after receiving SRP only.
Antibody response after single‐visit full‐mouth ultrasonic debridement versus quadrant‐wise therapy
Authors: Wang Dongqing , Koshy Geena , Nagasawa Toshiyuki , Kawashima Yoko , Kiji Makoto , Nitta Hiroshi , Oda Shigeru , Ishikawa Isao
Published: September 2006

Introduction: The aim of this study was to compare serum antibody responses to periodontal pathogens after single‐visit full‐mouth ultrasonic debridement and quadrant‐wise therapy.

Material and Methods: Thirty‐six subjects with chronic periodontitis were randomized into three groups: quadrant‐wise debridement in four visits, one‐visit full‐mouth debridement with water and with povidone iodine. Blood samples were collected before and immediately after treatment and 1, 3 and 6 months post‐therapy. Serum antibody titres and avidity to Porphyromonas gingivalis, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Prevotella intermedia and Treponema denticola were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and thiocyanate ELISA, respectively.

Results: IgG titres to P. gingivalis significantly decreased at 1, 3 and 6 months in full‐mouth debridement with water group, while significant reductions were seen only at 3 and 6 months after quadrant‐wise debridement. Both full‐mouth groups showed significant reduction in IgG titres to A. actinomycetemcomitans at 3 and 6 months. Significant increases in antibody avidity to P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans were noted 3 months following full‐mouth debridement with povidone.

Conclusion: Both full‐mouth and quadrant treatments generally resulted in a decrease in antibody titres and increase in antibody avidity. Full‐mouth debridement induced an earlier reduction of IgG titre to P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans, than quadrant‐wise therapy.
The efficacy of three different surgical techniques in the management of drug‐induced gingival overgrowth
Authors: Mavrogiannis M. , Ellis J. S. , Seymour R. A. , Thomason J. M.
Published: September 2006

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of three different surgical techniques in both the management and effect upon rate of overgrowth recurrence of drug‐induced gingival overgrowth (DIGO).

Materials and methods: Two cohorts of patients who required surgical correction of their DIGO participated in the study. After baseline periodontal measures (plaque index, gingival inflammation and probing pocket depths), the patients underwent surgery. A split‐mouth, crossover design was used to compare conventional gingivectomy with flap surgery (n=27), and conventional gingivectomy with laser excision (n=23). The main outcome variable was the rate of recurrence of DIGO following surgery.

Results: At 6 months, there was significantly less recurrence (p=0.05) in patients treated with laser excision, compared with those treated by conventional gingivectomy. The differences in rate of recurrence of DIGO were also reflected in changes in several periodontal parameters. Flap surgery offered no advantage over conventional gingivectomy with respect to the rate of recurrence.

Conclusions: DIGO can be managed by a variety of techniques. Laser excision results in a reduced rate of recurrence.
A two‐year prospective study of coronally positioned flap with or without acellular dermal matrix graft
Authors: De Queiroz Côrtes Antonieta , Sallum Antonio Wilson , Casati Marcio Z. , Nociti Francisco H. , Sallum Enilson A.
Published: September 2006

Aim: Evaluation of the treatment of gingival recessions with coronally positioned flap with or without acellular dermal matrix allograft (ADM) after a period of 24 months.

Methods: Thirteen patients with bilateral gingival recessions were included. The defects were randomly assigned to one of the treatments: coronally positioned flap plus ADM or coronally positioned flap alone. The clinical measurements were taken before the surgeries and after 6, 12 and 24 months.

Results: At baseline, the mean values for recession height were 3.46 and 3.58 mm for the defects treated with and without the graft, respectively (p>0.05). No significant differences between the groups were observed after 6 and 12 months in this parameter. However, after 24 months, the group treated with coronally positioned flap alone showed a greater recession height when compared with the group treated with ADM (1.62 and 1.15 mm, respectively –p<0.05). A significant increase in the thickness of keratinized tissue was observed in the group treated with ADM as compared with coronally positioned flap alone (p<0.05).

Conclusions: ADM may reduce the residual gingival recession observed after 24 months in defects treated with coronally positioned flap. In addition, a greater gingival thickness may be achieved when the graft is used.
The intra‐ and inter‐individual variability and reliability of transepidermal water loss measurements
Authors: Pinnagoda Jaliya , Tupker Ron A. , Smit Jet A. , Coenraads Pieter J. , Nater Johan P.
Published: September 2006

An analysis of variance wad conducted to estimate the intra‐ and inter‐individual variations in TEWL on the forearms, by sites (8 measurement sites) and by days (10 different days), in 30 non‐exposed healthy individuals. The estimated intra‐ and inter‐individual variations, by sites, were 15.5% and 84.5′V respectively, the sum of the 2 components always being 100%. Was the exclusion of the 2 most distal sites near the wrist, which had significantly higher baseline TEWL values and fluctuations in TEWL, an improvement in the intra‐individual variation was obtained. Thus, of the 6 sites, the estimated, intra‐ and inter‐individual variations were 8.4% and 91.6%, respectively. This finding supports the exclusion of these most distal sites for future investigations. The estimated intra‐ and inlet‐individual variations, by days, were 20.6% and 79.4%, respectively. The low site‐to‐site (8.4%) and day‐to‐day (20,6%) intra‐individual variations, as compared to the large inter‐individual variations of l he same (91.6% and 79.4%), indicate that baseline TEWL is a stable personal characteristic Thus, individuals susceptible to irritant contact dermatitis (ICD). due to occupational exposure, may be reliably characterized by utilizing their baseline TEWL values, for “prediction” of risk in epidemiological field studies.
Cascading effects of introduced Nile perch (Lates niloticus) on the foraging ecology of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Bwanika G. N. , Chapman L. J. , Kizito Y. , Balirwa J.
Published: September 2006

Abstract –  Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus L.) is the dominant of the introduced tilapiines in many East African lakes and has flourished in the presence of introduced Nile perch (Lates niloticus L.). We explored the hypothesis that O. niloticus exhibits increased omnivory in response to a decline in abundance of haplochromine cichlids. First, we quantified variation in habitat use and diet of O. niloticus in Lake Nabugabo, Uganda. Second, we compared the diet of O. niloticus in lakes with (Nabugabo, Victoria) and without (Mburo, Wamala, Nyamusingiri, Kyasanduka) introduced Nile perch. In Lake Nabugabo, a higher level of phytoplanktivory was observed in small juveniles than in larger fish and in wetland ecotone areas where haplochromines were most abundant. An omnivorous diet dominated by detritus and invertebrates was recorded for O. niloticus in lakes Nabugabo and Victoria, while a predominantly herbivorous diet was characteristic of O. niloticus in lakes without Nile perch. Availability of a broad food base in lakes where inshore insectivores have been reduced may explain the increased omnivory recorded in lakes Nabugabo and Victoria.
Immune privilege induced by regulatory T cells in transplantation tolerance
Authors: Cobbold Stephen P. , Adams Elizabeth , Graca Luis , Daley Stephen , Yates Stephen , Paterson Alison , Robertson Nathan J. , Nolan Kathleen F. , Fairchild Paul J. , Waldmann Herman
Published: September 2006

Summary:  Immune privilege was originally believed to be associated with particular organs, such as the testes, brain, the anterior chamber of the eye, and the placenta, which need to be protected from any excessive inflammatory activity. It is now becoming clear, however, that immune privilege can be acquired locally in many different tissues in response to inflammation, but particularly due to the action of regulatory T cells (Tregs) induced by the deliberate therapeutic manipulation of the immune system toward tolerance. In this review, we consider the interplay between Tregs, dendritic cells, and the graft itself and the resulting local protective mechanisms that are coordinated to maintain the tolerant state. We discuss how both anti‐inflammatory cytokines and negative costimulatory interactions can elicit a number of interrelated mechanisms to regulate both T‐cell and antigen‐presenting cell activity, for example, by catabolism of the amino acids tryptophan and arginine and the induction of hemoxygenase and carbon monoxide. The induction of local immune privilege has implications for the design of therapeutic regimens and the monitoring of the tolerant status of patients being weaned off immunosuppression.
The importance of regional lymph nodes for mucosal tolerance
Authors: Kraal Georg , Samsom Janneke N. , Mebius Reina E.
Published: September 2006

Summary:  The immune system is organized as a number of distinct lymphoid organs interconnected by recirculating lymphocytes. These organs, such as lymph nodes, spleen, and gut‐associated Peyer’s patches, are compartmentalized, providing separate niches for T and B cells. In addition, regional compartmentalization of lymphoid organs themselves exists, leading to the distinction between the mucosal and the systemic immune systems. This distinction not only reflects the anatomical localization but also is based on functional differences, with predominant tolerance induction via mucosal routes and immunity seen after systemic antigen exposure. These differences are associated with regional differences in the lymphoid organs and with environmental conditions of the tissues in which the immune system functions. Recirculation patterns of lymphocytes differ between mucosal and systemic lymphoid organs, and more insight into the mechanisms that imprint this behavior has been generated recently. Differences in dendritic cells have been observed between mucosal and systemic sites, and knowledge on how local factors contribute to the immune system is emerging. From our studies on mucosal tolerance in mouse models, it has become evident that regional lymph nodes draining the mucosa are important sites to direct immune responses. Here, we discuss the way regional lymph nodes contribute to the direction of immune responses and what is known about the local factors and cell behavior that form the basis for these differences.
Immune privilege in the gut: the establishment and maintenance of non‐responsiveness to dietary antigens and commensal flora
Authors: Iweala Onyinye I , Nagler Cathryn R
Published: September 2006

Summary:  Immune privilege in the gut is the result of a complex interplay between the gut microbiome, gut luminal antigens, and the intestinal epithelial barrier. Composed of both physical and immunochemical components, the intestinal barrier secretes immunoregulatory mediators that promote the generation of tolerogenic antigen‐presenting cells, phagocytic innate immune cells characterized by ‘inflammatory anergy’, and regulatory cells of the adaptive immune system. Innate immune cells mediate controlled transepithelial transport of luminal antigens as far as the mesenteric lymph nodes, where the intestinal and peripheral immune systems intersect. This promotes the generation of adaptive regulatory lymphocytes that actively suppress effector cell responses against gut luminal antigens and flora. The net result is the generation of tolerance to dietary antigens and the maintenance of gut homeostasis. Dysregulation of this complex immunoregulatory network leads to diseases such as food allergy and inflammatory bowel disease. Future therapies for these diseases will likely involve the functional restoration of the barrier and regulatory cell functions at the epithelial/luminal interface.
Immune privilege in sites of chronic infection: Leishmania and regulatory T cells
Authors: Peters Nathan , Sacks David
Published: September 2006

Summary:  Leishmania are digenetic protozoan parasites that are inoculated into the skin by vector sand flies, are taken up by macrophages, and produce a spectrum of chronic diseases in their natural reservoir and susceptible human hosts. During the early establishment of infection in the skin and lymphoid organs, Leishmania produce multiple effects on macrophage and dendritic cell functions that inhibit their innate anti‐microbial defenses and impair their capacity to initiate T‐helper 1 cell immunity. In addition, the skin is a site preconditioned for early parasite survival by virtue of a high frequency of steady‐state, natural CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) that function to suppress the generation of unneeded immune responses to infectious and non‐infectious antigens to which the skin is regularly exposed. In murine models of infection, antigen‐induced CD25+/−Foxp3−interleukin (IL)‐10+ Treg cells act during the effector phase of the immune response to control immunopathology and may also delay or prevent healing. Finally, following resolution of infection in healed mice, CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs function in an IL‐10‐dependent manner to prevent sterile cure and establish a long‐term state of functional immune privilege in the skin.
Immune cell migration as a means to control immune privilege: lessons from the CNS and tumors
Authors: Mrass Paulus , Weninger Wolfgang
Published: September 2006

Summary:  Certain organs, such as the brain, eye, and gonads, are particularly sensitive to damage by inflammation. Therefore, these tissues have developed unique immunological properties that curtail inflammatory responses, a phenomenon termed immune privilege. In addition, by co‐opting some of the regulatory cues operant in immune privilege in normal organs, tumors can evade immunosurveillance. While many different mechanisms contribute to immune privilege, there is evidence that leukocyte migration is an important checkpoint in its control. This hypothesis is based on the fact that leukocyte entry into these organs is restricted by physical barriers and that the collapse of these obstacles marks a critical step in the development of inflammatory/autoimmune disease at these sites. Numerous studies in a variety of experimental systems have characterized the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in leukocyte homing to immune‐privileged organs. Recently, two‐photon microscopy has revealed critical insights into the events occurring in the extravascular space of immune‐privileged organs, including locomotion patterns and interactive behavior of leukocytes in the interstitial space. Here, we review our current understanding of immune cell migration to and within immune‐privileged organs and highlight how this knowledge may be exploited for immunotherapeutic purposes.