bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in nucleus accumbens and neostriatal c‐Fos and DARPP‐32 immunoreactivity during different stages of food‐reinforced instrumental training
Authors: Segovia Kristen N. , Correa Merce , Lennington Jessica B. , Conover Joanne C. , Salamone John D.
Published: April 2012

Nucleus accumbens is involved in several aspects of instrumental behavior, motivation and learning. Recent studies showed that dopamine (DA) release in the accumbens shell was significantly increased on the first day of training on a fixed ratio (FR) 5 schedule (i.e. the transition from FR1 to FR5) compared with those rats that continued FR1 training, even though the rats on their first day of FR5 training received less food reinforcement than rats continuing on the FR1 schedule. Additionally, the second day of FR5 responding was marked by a significant increase in DA release in accumbens core. The present studies employed immunohistochemical methods to characterize the changes in cellular markers of accumbens and neostriatal neural activity that occur during various stages of food‐reinforced FR5 training. c‐Fos and DARPP‐32 immunoreactivity in accumbens shell was significantly increased on the first day of FR5 training, while core c‐Fos and DARPP‐32 expression showed large increases on the second day of FR5 training. Additional studies showed that c‐Fos and DARPP‐32 expression in neostriatum increased after more extensive training. Double‐labeling studies with immunofluorescence methods indicated that increases in accumbens c‐Fos and DARPP‐32 expression were primarily seen in substance‐P‐positive neurons. These increases in accumbens c‐Fos and DARPP‐32 immunoreactivity seen during the initial phases of FR training may reflect several factors, including novelty, learning, stress or the presentation of a work‐related challenge to the organism. Moreover, it appears that the separate subregions of the striatal complex are differentially activated at distinct phases of instrumental training.
Multilocus sequence typing reveals high genetic diversity and epidemic population structure for the fish pathogen Yersinia ruckeri
Authors: Bastardo Asmine , Ravelo Carmen , Romalde Jesús L.
Published: April 2012

Yersinia ruckeri is the causative agent of enteric redmouth in fish and one of the major bacterial pathogens causing losses in salmonid aquaculture. Previously typing methods, including restriction enzyme analysis, pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis and multilocus enzyme electrophoresis (MLEE) have indicated a clonal population structure. In this work, we describe a multilocus sequence typing (MLST) scheme for Y. ruckeri based on the internal fragment sequence of six housekeeping genes. This MLST scheme was applied to 103 Y. ruckeri strains from diverse geographic areas and hosts as well as environmental sources. Sequences obtained from this work were deposited and are available in a public database (http://publmst.org/yruckeri/). Thirty different sequence types (ST) were identified, 21 of which were represented by a single isolate, evidencing high genetic diversity. ST2 comprised more than one‐third of the isolates and was most frequently observed among isolates from trout. Two major clonal complexes (CC) were identified by eBURST analysis showing a common evolutionary origin for 94 isolates forming 21 STs into CC1 and for 6 isolates of 6 STs in the CC2. It was also possible to associate some unique ST with isolates from recent outbreaks in vaccinated salmonid fish.
Glycaemic efficacy of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors as add‐on therapy to metformin in subjects with type 2 diabetes—a review and meta analysis
Authors: Deacon C. F. , Mannucci E. , Ahrén B.
Published: April 2012

Aims: During recent years, two strategies of incretin‐based therapy [glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonism and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibition] have entered the market for pharmacological management of type 2 diabetes. A main indication for this therapy is as add‐on to on‐going metformin therapy in subjects with type 2 diabetes who have insufficient glycaemic control with metformin alone. The aim of this study was to compare improvements in glycaemic control and changes in body weight, as well as adverse events, in comparable studies with incretin‐based therapy as add‐on to metformin.

Methods: Studies having a duration of 16–30 weeks were identified from PubMed.

Results: A total of 27 study groups in 21 studies fulfilled the criteria of examining incretin‐based therapy as add‐on to metformin at clinically recommended doses in patients with type 2 diabetes for 16–30 weeks; 7 of these used a short‐acting GLP‐1 receptor agonist (exenatide BID), 7 used longer acting GLP‐1 receptor agonists (liraglutide or exenatide LAR), whereas 14 studies examined DPP‐4 inhibitors. In all studies, incretin‐based therapy reduced HbA1c concentrations. The reduction in HbA1c was significantly greater in study groups with long‐acting GLP‐1 receptor agonists than with the other two groups (both p < 0.001), whereas there were no differences between exenatide BID and DPP‐4 inhibitors. Across all study groups, there was a negative linear correlation between baseline HbA1c and change in HbA1c (r = −0.70; p < 0.001). Fasting glucose also fell significantly more in study groups given liraglutide or exenatide LAR than in those given exenatide BID or DPP‐4 inhibitors (both p < 0.001). Furthermore, body weight was reduced by a similar extent in the two groups with GLP‐1 receptor agonists and was not significantly altered in the groups with DPP‐4 inhibitors. Lipids, blood pressure and heart rate were not reported consistently, which did not allow general conclusions. Adverse events were rare, apart from increased incidence of nausea and vomiting with GLP‐1 receptor agonists.

Conclusion: Incretin‐based therapy efficiently improves glycaemia when added to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes, and within 16–30 weeks there is a more pronounced reduction in HbA1c with long‐acting GLP‐1 receptor agonists (liraglutide and exenatide LAR) than with exenatide BID and DPP‐4 inhibitors, although the magnitude of the effect is dependent on the baseline values. Both strategies appear to be associated with a very low risk of adverse events, including hypoglycaemia. Finally, the injectable GLP‐1 receptor agonists also reduce body weight (whereas the DPP‐4 inhibitors are weight neutral) but are also associated with a greater incidence of gastrointestinal side effects and a tendency to increase heart rate.
The effects of ketamine hydrochloride and diazepam on the intraocular pressure and pupil diameter of the dog’s eye
Authors: Kovalcuka Liga , Birgele Edite , Bandere Dace , Williams David L.
Published: April 2012

Objective  To determine the effects of 10% ketamine hydrochloride and 0.5% diazepam on intraocular pressure (IOP) and horizontal pupil diameter (HPD) in the canine eye.

Procedures  Ten healthy dogs for each treatment group were used in this study. In the first group, 20 mg/kg ketamine hydrochloride was injected intravenously; in the second, 0.5 mg/kg diazepam was similarly injected; and in the third, a control group, 0.9% saline was used. In all groups, IOP and HPD were measured every 5 min for 35 min in the first group, and 60 min in the second and third group.

Results  A maximum increase in IOP was obtained 5 min after ketamine injection, with IOP of 23.2 ± 5.8 mmHg (a 45.0% increase compared to baseline) in the right eye and 22.9 ± 5.9 mmHg (a 43.5% increase) in the left eye (both significant at P < 0.01). A significant IOP increase was observed throughout the research period of 35 min. Statistically significant increases in HPD (P < 0.05) were observed only at 5 and 25 min after ketamine injection. A significant increase in IOP was obtained 10 min after diazepam injection, showing a maximum IOP 20 ± 5.0 mmHg in the right eye (9.3% increase) and 19.9 ± 5.1 mmHg (8.7% increase) in the left eye (both significant at P < 0.05). HPD decreased during the study period, reaching the lowest level 30 min post‐treatment.

Conclusions  This study showed a substantial increase in IOP after ketamine injection and a less substantial, but still significant increase after diazepam injection. These findings should be taken into consideration when using these drugs in dogs with fragile corneas, or in dogs predisposed or affected by glaucoma.
Histomorphological structure of the palate and histochemical profiles of the salivary palatine glands in the Chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar, Gray 1830)
Authors: Sağsöz Hakan , Erdoğan Serkan , Akbalik Mehmet E.
Published: April 2012

Morphology of the palatine mucosa and its secretion was described in Chukar partridges, by gross morphology and histochemistry techniques. For this purpose, 10 healthy adults (five male and five female) were sacrificed. After sacrifice, the palatine tissues were extirpated and fixed in 10% formol‐alcohol for 18 h and were embedded longitudinally and transversally in paraffin. The 5‐μm sections were employed histological and histochemical staining techniques. The lateral rims of the caudal part of the choanal cleft were bordered by large conical papillae. In the periphery of the choanal and the infundibular cleft, small papillae were scattered across the palatine mucosa. The palate was lined by keratinized stratified squamous epithelium, which contained conical papillae of varying height. However, the folds of the keratinized stratified squamous epithelial layer covering the choanal and infundibular cleft were nonkeratinized. The rostral aspect of the choanal cleft contained simple branched tubulo‐alveolar glands of both mucous and sero‐mucous characteristic, whilst the caudal aspect included mucous simple branched tubular glands. Furthermore, it was ascertained that the secretion of the palatine glands contained glycoproteins, carboxylated proteoglycans, weakly and strongly sulphated mucins, sialic acid and hyaluronic acid, but lacked glycogen. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that the histological structure of the mucosal epithelium and the supporting elements displayed similarity to those of other domestic avian species.
Irbesartan promotes erection recovery after nerve‐sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy: a retrospective long‐term analysis
Authors: Segal Robert L. , Bivalacqua Trinity J. , Burnett Arthur L.
Published: April 2012

Study Type – Therapy (retrospective cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Erectile dysfunction following radical prostatectomy (RP) is among the most common and dreaded adverse effects of the surgery. Multiple studies confirm the potential benefit of various drug classes to accelerate the return of erectile function (EF) after RP. There is pre‐clinical evidence supporting the use of angiotensin‐receptor blockers (ARBs) for this purpose, although this has not been studied in humans.

The present study shows that there may be a benefit in the recovery of EF post‐RRP in patients taking a daily dose of irbesartan, an ARB, following RRP. In addition, the use of irbesartan may curb the loss of stretched penile length which occurs postoperatively. Further study in the form of prospective, randomized, placebo‐controlled clinical trials are necessary to confirm these findings.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate retrospectively the potential benefit of administering irbesartan, an angiotensin‐receptor blocker, to improve erectile function (EF) recovery after nerve‐sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Before surgery potent patients who underwent nerve‐sparing RRP between April and December 2009 elected to start daily oral irbesartan 300 mg on postoperative day 1 (n= 17). A contemporaneously clinically matched cohort consisting of patients who declined irbesartan use served as the control group (n= 12).

Postoperative ‘on demand’ use of erectile aids (phosphodiesterase type 5 [PDE5] inhibitors and intracavernous injections) was adopted.

Potency was monitored by the administration of International Index of Erectile Function‐5 (IIEF‐5) questionnaires before surgery and at early (3 months) and long‐term (12 and 24 months) postoperative intervals.

Stretched penile length (SPL) was measured both immediately and 3 months after surgery.

RESULTS

EF status was no different between groups at baseline (P > 0.05).

While the IIEF‐5 scores at 24 months after surgery were statistically similar between the two groups (control = 15.2 ± 2.0, irbesartan = 14.1 ± 3.1, P= 0.77), at 12 months the IIEF‐5 scores of the irbesartan group were significantly higher than those of the control group (14 ± 2.6 vs. 7.2 ± 1.6, P < 0.05).

The proportional loss of SPL after RRP was less in the irbesartan than in the control group at 3 months (–0.9 ± 1.5% vs –5.6 ± 1.5, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Regular irbesartan use after nerve‐sparing RRP in patients with normal preoperative erectile function could improve EF recovery after surgery and mitigate early loss of SPL.
Perivesical fat invasion in bladder cancer: implications for prognosis comparing pT2b, pT3a and pT3b stages and consequences for adjuvant chemotherapy indications
Authors: Neuzillet Yann , Lebret Thierry , Molinie Vincent , Yonneau Laurent , Herve Jean‐Marie , Theodore Christine , Botto Henry
Published: April 2012

Study Type – Therapy (retrospective cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The more that bladder cancer progresses from the urothelium to the outside of the bladder the worse the prognosis. To date, the use of adjuvant chemotherapy has not been completely defined.

The present study clarifies the prognosis and benefits of adjuvant chemotherapy for different stages of bladder cancer that invade perivesical fat.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prognosis of pT2b, pT3a and pT3b bladder cancers after radical cystectomy (RC) in order to define potential situations where chemotherapy may be of benefit.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1985 and 2009, 903 patients underwent a RC and pelvic bilateral lymphadenectomy in an Institutional Referral Centre.

In all, 87 patients (9.6%) had a pT2b tumour, 111 patients (12.3%) a pT3a tumour, and 129 patients (14.3%) a pT3b tumour.

The median (range) overall follow‐up was 23 (1–350) months.

Overall (OS), disease‐specific (DSS), metastases‐free (MFS) and local recurrence‐free survival (LRFS) was estimated and compared using Kaplan–Meier plots and log‐rank test.

RESULTS

The 5‐year survivals pT2b and pT3a were similar for LRFS (86% vs 84%), MFS (69% vs 63%), DSS (72% vs 70%) and OS (66% vs 61%), and the prognosis was better than for pT3b stage tumours (69%, 44%, 40%, and 31% respectively).

In pN0 disease, MFS differences between pT2b–pT3a and pT3b tumours were not significant in patients who had received adjuvant chemotherapy (MSF of 87%, 69% and 56%, respectively) while they were significant in patients without adjuvant chemotherapy (MFS of 70%, 68% and 42%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Bladder cancers invading perivesical tissue macroscopically have a greater propensity to produce lymph node metastases, local recurrence, and have lower MFS, DSS, and OS. In pN0 disease, pT3b tumours may receive more benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy.

Our results could be a useful for selecting patients for adjuvant chemotherapy.
724. BOMAREA DULCIS
Authors: Bone Ruth E. , Strange Kit
Published: April 2012

Bomarea dulcis (Hook.) Beauv. is illustrated and details of its cultivation are given; its relationships to other members of subgenus Wichuraea are discussed.
Characterisation of connective tissue from the hypertrophic skeletal muscle of myostatin null mice
Authors: Elashry Mohamed I. , Collins‐Hooper Henry , Vaiyapuri Sakthivel , Patel Ketan
Published: April 2012

Myostatin is a potent inhibitor of muscle development. Genetic deletion of myostatin in mice results in muscle mass increase, with muscles often weighing three times their normal values. Contracting muscle transfers tension to skeletal elements through an elaborate connective tissue network. Therefore, the connective tissue of skeletal muscle is an integral component of the contractile apparatus. Here we examine the connective tissue architecture in myostatin null muscle. We show that the hypertrophic muscle has decreased connective tissue content compared with wild‐type muscle. Secondly, we show that the hypertrophic muscle fails to show the normal increase in muscle connective tissue content during ageing. Therefore, genetic deletion of myostatin results in an increase in contractile elements but a decrease in connective tissue content. We propose a model based on the contractile profile of muscle fibres that reconciles this apparent incompatible tissue composition phenotype.
Spectrum of central nervous system abnormalities in neurocutaneous melanocytosis
Authors: RAMASWAMY VIJAY , DELANEY HOLLY , HAQUE SOFIA , MARGHOOB ASHFAQ , KHAKOO YASMIN
Published: April 2012

Aim  Neurocutaneous melanocytosis is a rare neurocutaneous syndrome defined by the presence of large and/or multiple congenital cutaneous nevi and melanocytic deposits in the central nervous system. We sought to define the spectrum of central nervous system abnormalities in children with neurocutaneous melanocytosis.

Method  We retrospectively reviewed cases of neurocutaneous melanocytosis referred to the pediatric neuro‐oncology service at our center from 2003 to 2010.

Results  Of 14 patients (11 males, 3 females) identified, eight were living. Median age of survivors was 31 months (range 12mo–6y 10mo) while median age of death was 81 months (19mo–28y). Of the six patients who died, all had diffuse leptomeningeal melanocytic deposits and four had leptomeningeal melanoma. All patients had neuroimaging: six had findings suggestive of diffuse leptomeningeal melanocytosis; seven had multifocal melanocytic deposits; and one patient had normal neuroimaging but focal seizures. Spinal abnormalities were common: three patients had extensive dorsal spinal arachnoid cysts and one had a benign cervical spindle cell tumor. Seven patients had epilepsy. Three patients had profound developmental delay; the other 11 patients had no or mild delay.

Interpretation  Children with neurocutaneous melanocytosis exhibit a wide range of intracranial and intraspinal abnormalities and variable clinical outcomes.
Age‐related changes in the impact of contextual strength on multiple aspects of sentence comprehension
Authors: Wlotko Edward W. , Federmeier Kara D.
Published: April 2012

Contextual information influences multiple aspects of language comprehension extended over time. To determine how age‐related changes impact normal comprehension, effects of contextual strength were examined with event‐related potentials. Increased contextual constraint facilitated semantic processing (reduced N400s). Effects were smaller and delayed for older adults, and sensitivity to contextual information was diminished for weak contexts. Both groups elicited a later left‐lateralized frontal negativity associated with reinterpretation of context when multiple interpretations of a sentence were likely. Older adults evidenced the frontal negativity over a wider range of constraint. The change in the use of contextual information across age is attributed to decreased reliance on predictive processing for older adults. Thus, age‐related changes in comprehension lead to differential engagement of processing resources over time for older adults.
Fashion consumer groups and online shopping at private sale sites
Authors: Kim Soyoung , Martinez Briana
Published: April 2012

With the increasing popularity of private sale sites, it has become more important to understand those shoppers regularly visiting these sites. To date, no published studies have reported on shoppers of private sale sites. The current study was designed to divide shoppers of private sale sites into distinct fashion consumer groups based on their levels of fashion leadership, and to examine their differences in shopping behaviours. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 164 women aged 18 and older who were members of at least one private sale site. The respondents were recruited mainly using a snowball sampling technique, which relied on chain referrals to identify eligible participants. Factor analysis results suggested that fashion leadership consisted of two dimensions: fashion opinion leadership and fashion innovativeness. The respondents were divided into four groups, named fashion followers, fashion opinion leaders, fashion innovators and innovative communicators, based on their scores on the two dimensions of fashion leadership. In order to compare characteristics of the four groups, a series of anova were conducted and significant group differences were found in hedonic shopping, site visit frequency, and purchase intention. The significantly higher levels of visit frequency and purchase intention for innovative communicators indicate that this group represents a valuable market segment for online private sale companies to target. Implications for future research and limitations were also discussed.
Delays in Seeking Conventional Medical Care and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Utilization
Authors: Ayers Stephanie L. , Kronenfeld Jennie J.
Published: April 2012

Objective

To test the association between delays in utilization of conventional medical care and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) utilization.

Data Source

The 2007 National Health Interview Survey, a cross‐sectional nationally representative study of adults aged 18 years and older.

Study Design

Using zero‐inflated regression models, delays in utilizing conventional care due to organizational inaccessibility are examined to determine whether delays are associated with both the decision to try CAM and the number of CAM types used.

Principal Findings

Individuals have significantly higher odds using provider‐based CAM types if they delayed seeking conventional care due to organizational inaccessibility (OR = 1.63). Individuals use significantly more types of both provider‐based (IRR = 1.35) and non‐provider‐based (IRR = 1.49) CAM if they delayed seeking conventional care due to organizational inaccessibility.

Conclusion

Individuals who delay seeking conventional medical care are more likely to use CAM and use more types of CAM. The current structure of the conventional health care system may have created barriers that can make conventional health care inaccessible. Individuals who face these barriers appear to be pushed not only into trying CAM but using a greater number of CAM types, a finding not in previous research.
Individual Stress, Collective Trauma, and Social Capital in the Wake of the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill*
Authors: Ritchie Liesel Ashley
Published: April 2012

This article examines persistent social impacts of the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill (EVOS) by focusing on the relationship between social capital and chronic individual stress and collective trauma, using Hobfoll’s (1988) conservation of resources model of stress as an organizing framework. Data are based on in‐depth personal interviews conducted 14 years after the disaster. Analyses focus on the ways in which stress‐related behaviors associated with loss and threat of loss of various forms of resources have affected social capital in the renewable resource community of Cordova, Alaska. Findings reveal lower levels of trust, disruptions in associations, weakened social connections and networks, altered social discourses, diminished feelings of good will, and violations of norms of reciprocity. Behaviors associated with long‐term stress related to the EVOS and to the associated protracted litigation are indicative of diminished social capital. This research highlights the critical importance of social capital as a collective resource and illustrates the ways in which decreased social capital can exacerbate individual stress and collective trauma.
Determination of dyers’ perceived components of colour difference (depth, brightness and hue) between two similar colours from their spectral reflectance values
Authors: Wardman Roger H , Farooq Salma , Smith Ken J
Published: April 2012

The partitioning of colour differences into ΔL*, ΔC* and ΔH* is not directly equivalent to the dyer’s method of partitioning. The dyer’s method involves separation into the components of depth (ΔD), brightness (ΔB) and hue (ΔH), of which only hue difference has a qualitative (and quantitative) equivalent in the CIELAB system. Depth and brightness are important terms to dyers. Depth is related to the amount of dye taken up by a textile material and brightness to that component of colour difference that is neither depth nor hue. Brightness is best defined as the opposite of dullness, dullness being related to the amount of neutral grey present in the colour. An algorithm, called the Wardman–Smith–Farooq algorithm, has been developed to compute the dyers’ variables of ΔD,ΔB and ΔH from spectral reflectance values, enabling dyers to take full advantage of colorimetry. The algorithm is based on extensive experimental work to map surfaces of constant visual depth through the colour space and this paper describes the methodology of the calculation. The correlations of the values of ΔD,ΔB and ΔH, determined using the Wardman–Smith–Farooq algorithm with other empirical models for 117 sample pairs, are given.
Drinking Correlates of DSM‐IV Alcohol Use Disorder Diagnostic Orphans in College Students
Authors: Hagman Brett T. , Cohn Amy M.
Published: April 2012

One major limitation of the DSM‐IV criteria for alcohol abuse and dependence is that a cluster of individuals who endorse a subthreshold number of dependence criteria and no abuse criteria do not receive a formal diagnosis; despite elevated risk for alcohol‐related problems relative to those with an abuse diagnosis. These individuals have been referred to as diagnostic orphans. The primary aim of this study was to examine alcohol use correlates of a group of diagnostic orphans in a sample of 396 nontreatment seeking college students who reported drinking on at least one occasion in the last 90 days. DSM‐IV criteria were assessed using a modified version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview‐Substance Abuse Module (CIDI‐SAM). Diagnostic orphans represented 34.1% (n = 135) of the original sample who did not receive a formal diagnosis; with the most frequently endorsed dependence criteria being tolerance and drinking larger/longer amounts than intended. Diagnostic orphans reported a range of alcohol‐related negative consequences and reported greater frequencies of social and enhancement drinking motives in comparison to coping motives. They were similar to alcohol abusers and dissimilar to those with dependence or those without a diagnosis on alcohol consumption, alcohol problem severity, drinking motives and restraint variables. The present findings indicate that diagnostic orphans in college students represent a distinct group of drinkers who may be at risk for the development of alcohol use disorders and may be in need of intervention, given their similarity to those with an abuse diagnosis. Prevention and intervention efforts across college campuses should target this group to prevent escalation of alcohol problem severity. (Am J Addict 2012;21:233–242)
Nonbismuth Quadruple (Concomitant) Therapy: Empirical and Tailored Efficacy versus Standard Triple Therapy for Clarithromycin‐Susceptible Helicobacter pylori and versus Sequential Therapy for Clarithromycin‐Resistant Strains
Authors: Molina‐Infante Javier , Pazos‐Pacheco Carmen , Vinagre‐Rodriguez Gema , Perez‐Gallardo Belen , Dueñas‐Sadornil Carmen , Hernandez‐Alonso Moisés , Gonzalez‐Garcia Guadalupe , Mateos‐Rodriguez Jose M. , Fernandez‐Bermejo Miguel , Gisbert Javier P.
Published: April 2012

Background:  Using quadruple clarithromycin‐containing regimens for Helicobacter pylori eradication is controversial with high rates of macrolide resistance.

Aim:  To evaluate antibiotic resistance rates and the efficacy of empirical and tailored nonbismuth quadruple (concomitant) therapy in a setting with cure rates <80% for triple and sequential therapies.

Methods:  209 consecutive naive H. pylori‐positive patients without susceptibility testing were empirically treated with 10‐day concomitant therapy (proton pump inhibitors (PPI), amoxicillin 1 g, clarithromycin 500 mg, and metronidazole 500 mg; all drugs b.i.d.). Simultaneously, 89 patients with positive H. pylori culture were randomized to receive triple versus concomitant therapy for clarithromycin‐susceptible H. pylori, and sequential versus concomitant therapy for clarithromycin‐resistant strains. Eradication was confirmed with 13C‐urea breath test or histology 8 weeks after completion of treatment.

Results:  Per‐protocol (PP) and intention‐to‐treat eradication rates after empirical concomitant therapy without susceptibility testing were 89% (95%CI:84–93%) and 87% (83–92%). Antibiotic resistance rates were: clarithromycin, 20%; metronidazole, 34%; and both clarithromycin and metronidazole, 10%. Regarding clarithromycin‐susceptible H. pylori, concomitant therapy was significantly better than triple therapy by per protocol [92% (82–100%) vs 74% (58–91%), p = 0.05] and by intention to treat [92% (82–100%) vs 70% (57–90%), p = 0.02]. As for antibiotic‐resistant strains, eradication rates for concomitant and sequential therapies were 100% (5/5) vs 75% (3/4), for clarithromycin‐resistant/metronidazole‐susceptible strains and 75% (3/4) vs 60% (3/5) for dual‐resistant strains.

Conclusions:  Empirical 10‐day concomitant therapy achieves good eradication rates, close to 90%, in settings with multiresistant H. pylori strains. Tailored concomitant therapy is significantly superior to triple therapy for clarithromycin‐susceptible H. pylori and at least as effective as sequential therapy for resistant strains.
A Potential Association between Helicobacter pylori CagA EPIYA and Multimerization Motifs with Cytokeratin 18 Cleavage Rate during Early Apoptosis
Authors: Saberi Samaneh , Douraghi Masoumeh , Azadmanesh Kayhan , Shokrgozar Mohammad Ali , Zeraati Hojjat , Hosseini Mahmoud Eshagh , Mohagheghi Mohammad Ali , Parsaeian Mahbubeh , Mohammadi Marjan
Published: April 2012

Background and Aims:  Helicobacter pylori is a highly diverse pathogen, which encounters epithelial cells as the initial defense barrier during its lifelong infection. The structure of epithelial cells can be disrupted through cleavage of microfilaments. Cytokeratin 18 (CK18) is an intermediate filament, the cleavage of which is considered an early event during apoptosis following activation of effector caspases.

Methods:  Helicobacter pylori strains were isolated from 76 dyspeptic patients. cagA 3’ variable region and CagA protein status were analyzed by PCR and western blotting, respectively. Eight hours post‐co‐culture of AGS cells with different H. pylori strains, flow cytometric analysis was performed using M30 monoclonal antibody specific to CK18 cleavage‐induced neo‐epitope.

Results:  Higher rates of CK18 cleavage were detected during co‐culture of AGS cells with H. pylori strains bearing greater numbers of cagA EPIYA‐C and multimerization (CM) motifs. On the other hand, H. pylori strains with greater numbers of EPIYA‐B relative to EPIYA‐C demonstrated a decrease in CK18 cleavage rate. Thus, H. pylori‐mediated cleavage of CK18 appeared proportional to the number of CagA EPIYA‐C and CM motifs, which seemed to be downplayed in the presence of EPIYA‐B motifs.

Conclusions:  Our observation associating the heterogeneity of cagA variants with the potential of H. pylori strains in the induction of CK18 cleavage as an early indication of apoptosis in gastric epithelial cells supports the fact that apoptosis may be a type‐specific trait. However, additional cagA‐targeted experiments are required to clearly identify the role of EPIYA and CM motifs in apoptosis and/or the responsible effector molecules.
Brain structure and aging in chronic temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Dabbs Kevin , Becker Tara , Jones Jana , Rutecki Paul , Seidenberg Michael , Hermann Bruce
Published: April 2012

Purpose:  To characterize differences in brain structure and their patterns of age‐related change in individuals with chronic childhood/adolescent onset temporal lobe epilepsy compared with healthy controls.

Methods:  Subjects included participants with chronic temporal lobe epilepsy (n = 55) of mean childhood/adolescent onset and healthy controls (n = 53), age 14–60 years. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies (1.5 T) were processed using FreeSurfer to obtain measures of lobar thickness, area, and volume as well as volumes of diverse subcortical structures and cerebellum. Group differences were explored followed by cross‐sectional lifespan modeling as a function of age.

Key Findings:  Anatomic abnormalities were extensive in participants with chronic temporal lobe epilepsy including distributed subcortical structures (hippocampus, thalamus, caudate, and pallidum), cerebellar gray and white matter, total cerebral gray and white matter; and measures of cortical gray matter thickness, area, or volume in temporal (medial, lateral) and extratemporal lobes (frontal, parietal). Increasing chronologic age was associated with progressive changes in diverse cortical, subcortical, and cerebellar regions for both participants with epilepsy and controls. Age‐accelerated changes in epilepsy participants were seen in selected areas (third and lateral ventricles), with largely comparable patterns of age‐related change across other regions of interest.

Significance:  Extensive cortical, subcortical, and cerebellar abnormalities are present in participants with mean chronic childhood/adolescent onset temporal lobe epilepsy implicating a significant neurodevelopmental impact on brain structure. With increasing chronologic age, the brain changes occurring in epilepsy appear to proceed in a largely age‐appropriate fashion compared to healthy controls, the primary exception being age‐accelerated ventricular expansion (lateral and third ventricles). These cumulative structural abnormalities appear to represent a significant anatomic burden for persons with epilepsy, the consequences of which remain to be determined as they progress into elder years.
Proving the Usefulness of Demonstrations: Using M&M's to Develop Attribute Control Charts
Authors: Fish Lynn A. , Braunscheidel Michael J.
Published: April 2012

Experiential‐based mini‐demonstrations are useful to facilitate student learning on a wide variety of topics. The purpose of this teaching brief is two‐fold: (1) it outlines a useful mini‐demonstration to teach attribute control charting when the sample size is unknown, and (2) adds additional proof that experiential methods positively impact upon student learning. The goal of this mini‐demonstration is to assist undergraduate and graduate students to develop their hands‐on statistical quality control charting and quality management concepts. By using this mini‐demonstration in one operations management class and not another, students that participated in this mini‐demonstration performed significantly better (p= .05) than their counterparts in testing. The mini‐demonstration may be extended to include computer integration, used in small or large class sizes, and provides an efficient, effective use of classroom time to develop concepts.
Intravascular Ultrasound‐Assisted Coronary Sinus Lead Implant in Patient with Contrast Anaphylaxis
Authors: HOFFMEISTER PETER , GAUTAM SANDEEP , PERALTA ADELQUI , KINLAY SCOTT
Published: April 2012

Ultrasound imaging has been used in a range of cardiac interventions. We describe the use of intravascular ultrasound to assist in coronary sinus lead implantation in a patient where contrast venography was contraindicated.
Degenerating Regenerating Torsades de Pointes
Authors: PERRIN MARK JONATHAN , GOLLOB MICHAEL HOWARD , BIRNIE DAVID HUGH , NERY PABLO BALBUENA , KEREN ARIEH
Published: April 2012

Ventricular fibrillation (VF) commonly ends in death. Isolated case reports describe the uncommon occurrence of spontaneous termination of VF. Torsades de pointes (TdP), a peculiar form of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia associated with a prolonged QT interval on the surface electrocardiogram, most often spontaneously terminates and then returns to the underlying rhythm. Here, we present an unusual case of TdP degenerating into VF, reorganizing into TdP, and then spontaneously terminating. Our case suggests that the mechanisms underlying the maintenance of TdP and VF are not dissimilar. The precipitants to this event and the likely mechanisms operative are discussed.
The Development of Causal Categorization
Authors: Hayes Brett K. , Rehder Bob
Published: April 2012

Two experiments examined the impact of causal relations between features on categorization in 5‐ to 6‐year‐old children and adults. Participants learned artificial categories containing instances with causally related features and noncausal features. They then selected the most likely category member from a series of novel test pairs. Classification patterns and logistic regression were used to diagnose the presence of independent effects of causal coherence, causal status, and relational centrality. Adult classification was driven primarily by coherence when causal links were deterministic (Experiment 1) but showed additional influences of causal status when links were probabilistic (Experiment 2). Children’s classification was based primarily on causal coherence in both cases. There was no effect of relational centrality in either age group. These results suggest that the generative model (Rehder, 2003a) provides a good account of causal categorization in children as well as adults.
Gunshot Residues on Dry Bone After Decomposition—A Pilot Study
Authors: Taborelli Anna , Gibelli Daniele , Rizzi Agostino , Andreola Salvatore , Brandone Alberto , Cattaneo Cristina
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Very little literature exists concerning radiochemical and microscopic analyses of gunshot wounds in decomposed material, and even less concerning skeletonized samples; the most advanced technologies may provide useful indications for the diagnosis of suspect lesions, especially if gunshot wounds are no longer recognizable. However, we know very little of the survival of gunshot residues (GSR) in skeletonized samples. This study examined nine gunshot wounds produced on pig heads which then underwent skeletonization for 4 years, and four gunshot entries on human heads from judicial cases which were then macerated to the bone in water; the samples underwent scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X‐ray (SEM‐EDX) analysis. Positive results for GSR were observed only in four of the nine animal samples and in all four human samples. Among the human samples, two lesions showed Pb and Sb, one lesion only Pb, and one Pb, Sb, and Ba. This pilot study showed the survival of GSR in skeletal material and therefore the crucial importance of SEM‐EDX analyses on skeletonized material. Further studies are needed in order to ascertain the role of environmental modifications of GSR.
Can economic incentives encourage actual reductions in pesticide use and environmental spillovers?
Authors: Skevas Theodoros , Stefanou Spiro E. , Lansink Alfons Oude
Published: April 2012

Chemical pesticides constitute an important input in crop production. But their indiscriminate use can impact negatively agricultural productivity, human health, and the environment. Recently, attention is focused on the use of economic incentives to reduce pesticide use and its related indirect effects. The aim of this work is to assess the effectiveness of different economic instruments such as taxes and levies in encouraging farmers to decrease pesticide use and their environmental spillovers. A policy simulation model is employed using data from Dutch cash crop producers including two pesticide categories that differ in terms of toxicity and pesticides’ environmental spillovers. Four different instruments were selected for evaluation: pesticide taxes, price penalties on pesticides’ environmental spillovers, subsidies, and quotas. The results of the study indicate that even high taxes and penalties would result in a small decrease in pesticide use and environmental spillovers. Taxes that differentiate according to toxicity do not lead to substitution of high‐ with low‐toxicity pesticides. Subsidies on low‐toxicity products are not able to affect the use of high‐toxicity products. Pesticide quotas are more effective in reducing pesticide use and environmental spillovers.
Long‐term retrospective study of narrow implants for fixed dental prostheses
Authors: Lee Jung‐Seok , Kim Hyun‐Min , Kim Chang‐Sung , Choi Seong‐Ho , Chai Jung‐Kiu , Jung Ui‐Won
Published: April 2012

Objective

The objectives of this study were to analyze retrospectively the long‐term survival and success rates of Narrow implants (NIs) placed with various implant systems, and the association with biological and technical complications.

Material and methods

In total, 338 patients (men = 45.6%, women = 54.4%) who received 541 NIs (≤3.5 mm in diameter) for fixed prostheses were enrolled in this retrospective study. The mean marginal bone level (MMBL) change was calculated. Life table analysis with the cumulative survival rate and success rate was calculated, and biological and technical complications were evaluated.

Results

The annual MMBL change was 0.07 ± 0.20 mm. The 12‐year cumulative survival (success) rates of NIs were 98.1% (91.8%) and 98.5% (93.8%) for the implant‐ and subject‐based analysis, respectively. During the observation period up to 12 years (mean 4.9 years), six implants were lost in the maxilla, whereas three implants were lost in the mandible. Technical complications were more frequent than biological complications. Infection was the most common underlying cause of biological complications and the most frequent technical complication was decementation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the findings of this study suggest that NIs could be used safely for narrow alveolar ridges or narrow mesiodistal spaces on the basis of their high survival rate.
Impact of platform switching on inter‐proximal bone levels around short implants in the posterior region; 1‐year results from a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Telleman Gerdien , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Vissink Arjan , Meijer Henny J. A.
Published: April 2012

Aim

To assess the outcome of short implants (8.5 mm) supplied with a conventional platform‐matched implant‐abutment connection or a platform‐switched design.

Materials and Methods

Eighty patients with one or more missing teeth in the posterior zone were randomly assigned to be treated with implants with either a conventional (control) or a platform‐switched (mismatch 0.35–0.40 mm) implant‐abutment connection (test). Follow‐up visits were conducted 1 month and 1 year after placing the implant crown. Outcome measures were inter‐proximal bone loss, using standardized peri‐apical radiographs, implant survival, clinical parameters and patients' satisfaction.

Results

One year after loading, inter‐proximal bone loss around test implants (0.51 ± 0.51 mm) was significantly less than around control implants (0.73 ± 0.48 mm) (p = 0.011). Moreover, bone loss was less around 1 versus 2 adjacent implants (p = 0.001), in both the test (0.29 ± 0.36 versus 0.71 ± 0.55 mm) and control (0.46 ± 0.42 versus 0.88 ± 0.45 mm) group. With regard to implant survival, clinical parameters and patients' satisfaction no differences were observed between the test and control group.

Conclusion

This study suggested that crestal bone resorption may be reduced by platform switching. One year after loading, inter‐proximal bone levels were better maintained at implants restored according to the platform switching concept.
The role of coaggregation between Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum on the host response to mixed infection
Authors: Polak David , Shapira Lior , Weiss Ervin I. , Houri‐Haddad Yael
Published: April 2012

Aim

To evaluate the role of coaggregation between Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum on the virulence of the mixed infection in mice.

Materials and methods

Inhibition of coaggregation was carried out using lactose. In vitro, inhibition of coaggregation was verified using a coaggregation assay. In vivo, the virulence of the mixed infection, with and without coaggregation, was examined in a model of experimental periodontitis in mice. The local host response to the mixed infection, with or without coaggregation, was examined using the subcutaneous chamber model of infection.

Results

Lactose inhibited the coaggregation between P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum at all the tested concentrations (1–0.0625 M). Surprisingly, the addition of lactose to the mixed infection increased the severity of experimental periodontitis (as measured by alveolar bone loss) compared with mixed infection with coaggregating bacteria. The addition of lactose to the mixed infection resulted in mild attenuation of TNFα and IL‐1β levels. In addition, inhibition of coaggregation resulted in inhibition of the phagocytosis of F. nucleatum and augmentation of the phagocytosis of P. gingivalis.

Conclusions

The ability of P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum to coaggregate may limit their ability to induce experimental periodontitis in a mixed infection model. Moreover, there is a shift in the phagocytosis pattern of the bacteria with the annulment of coaggregeaiton, with a reduction in F. nucleatum phagocytosis and amplification of P. gingivalis phagocytosis. The increased virulence of the mixed infection without coaggregation may surprisingly lay in the sustention of F. nucleatum in the infected sites.
Melatonin‐induced autophagy is associated with degradation of MyoD protein in C2C12 myoblast cells
Authors: Kim Chi Hyun , Kim Kyung Hwan , Yoo Yeong‐Min
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  MyoD is a muscle‐specific transcriptional factor that acts as a master switch for skeletal muscle differentiation. This protein regulates myoblast proliferation and myogenic differentiation and is also a short‐lived regulatory protein that is degraded by the ubiquitin system. However, the lysosomal pathway of MyoD protein degradation remains unknown. In this study, we sought to determine whether melatonin (1, 2 mm)‐induced autophagy causes the degradation of MyoD protein in C2C12 myoblast cells. Melatonin induced a significant increase in expression of the microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3)‐II and Beclin‐1 proteins in a dose‐dependent manner. Melatonin treatment also significantly increased p‐ERK, Ras, and p‐Akt expressions in a dose‐dependent manner. However, Bax expression was high compared with the absence of melatonin treatment, and Bcl‐2 expression was high in the 0.1–0.5 mm melatonin treatments and low in the 1 and 2 mm melatonin treatments. Under the same conditions, cytosolic MyoD protein was significantly decreased in a dose‐dependent manner and completely eliminated by 36 hr. This decrease in MyoD protein involved ubiquitin‐mediated proteasomal activity with proteasome inhibitor MG132 or autophagy‐dependent lysosomal degradation with lysosomal inhibitor bafilomycin A1 (Baf‐A1). In the same condition, phosphorylation of the mammalian target of rapamycin, p‐mTOR, and p‐S6K expression with Baf‐A1 or Baf‐A1‐plus melatonin treatment were significantly decreased compared with the levels after treatment with melatonin only. Together, these results suggest that melatonin (1, 2 mm)‐induced autophagy results in partial lysosomal degradation of MyoD protein in C2C12 myoblast cells.