bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alarin stimulates food intake and gonadotrophin release in male rats
Authors: Boughton CK , Patterson M , Bewick GA , Tadross JA , Gardiner JV , Beale KEL , Chaudery F , Hunter G , Busbridge M , Leavy EM , Ghatei MA , Bloom SR , Murphy KG
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Alarin is a recently discovered member of the galanin peptide family encoded by a splice variant of galanin‐like peptide (GALP) mRNA. Galanin and GALP regulate energy homeostasis and reproduction. We therefore investigated the effects of alarin on food intake and gonadotrophin release.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Alarin was administered into the third cerebral ventricle (i.c.v.) of rats, and food intake or circulating hormone levels were measured. The effect of alarin on the hypothalamo–pituitary–gonadal axis was investigated in vitro using hypothalamic and anterior pituitary explants, and immortalized cell lines. Receptor binding assays were used to determine whether alarin binds to galanin receptors.

KEY RESULTS The i.c.v. administration of alarin (30 nmol) to ad libitum fed male rats significantly increased acute food intake to 500%, and plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) levels to 170% of responses to saline. In vitro, 100 nM alarin stimulated neuropeptide Y (NPY) and gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) release from hypothalamic explants from male rats, and 1000 nM alarin increased GnRH release from GT1‐7 cells. In vivo, pretreatment with the GnRH receptor antagonist cetrorelix prevented the increase in plasma LH levels observed following i.c.v. alarin administration. Receptor binding studies confirmed alarin did not bind to any known galanin receptor, or compete with radiolabelled galanin for hypothalamic binding sites.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results suggest alarin is a novel orexigenic peptide, and that it increases circulating LH levels via hypothalamic GnRH. Further work is required to identify the receptor(s) mediating the biological effects of alarin.
Effects of nominally selective inhibitors of the kinases PI3K, SGK1 and PKB on the insulin‐dependent control of epithelial Na+ absorption
Authors: Mansley Morag K , Wilson Stuart M
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Insulin‐induced Na+ retention in the distal nephron may contribute to the development of oedema/hypertension in patients with type 2 diabetes. This response to insulin is usually attributed to phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase (PI3K)/serum and glucocorticoid‐inducible kinase 1 (SGK1) but a role for protein kinase B (PKB) has been proposed. The present study therefore aimed to clarify the way in which insulin can evoke Na+ retention.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We examined the effects of nominally selective inhibitors of PI3K (wortmannin, PI103, GDC‐0941), SGK1 (GSK650394A) and PKB (Akti‐1/2) on Na+ transport in hormone‐deprived and insulin‐stimulated cortical collecting duct (mpkCCD) cells, while PI3K, SGK1 and PKB activities were assayed by monitoring the phosphorylation of endogenous proteins.

KEY RESULTS Wortmannin substantially inhibited basal Na+ transport whereas PI103 and GDC‐0941 had only very small effects. However, these PI3K inhibitors all abolished insulin‐induced Na+ absorption and inactivated PI3K, SGK1 and PKB fully. GSK650394A and Akti‐1/2 also inhibited insulin‐evoked Na+ absorption and while GSK650394A inhibited SGK1 without affecting PKB, Akti‐1/2 inactivated both kinases.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS While studies undertaken using PI103 and GDC‐0941 show that hormone‐deprived cells can absorb Na+ independently of PI3K, PI3K seems to be essential for insulin induced Na+ transport. Akti‐1/2 does not act as a selective inhibitor of PKB and data obtained using this compound must therefore be treated with caution. GSK650394A, on the other hand, selectively inhibits SGK1 and the finding that GSK650394A suppressed insulin‐induced Na+ absorption suggests that this response is dependent upon signalling via PI3K/SGK1.
Impact of CAP Subsidies on Technical Efficiency of Crop Farms in Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden
Authors: Zhu Xueqin , Lansink Alfons Oude
Published: May 2010

This paper analyses the impacts of CAP reforms, particularly subsidies on technical efficiency of crop farms. An output distance function is employed and estimated together with an inefficiency effects model to capture the effects of CAP subsidies and farmer characteristics on farm efficiency. The model is applied to FADN data (period 1995–2004) of crop farms in Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden. The study shows that the 10‐year average technical efficiency is 64% in Germany, 76% in the Netherlands and 71% in Sweden. The average annual changes in technical efficiency are 0.1%, 0.4% and 2.3%, respectively. The share of crop subsidies in total subsidies has a negative impact on technical efficiency in Germany but a positive impact in Sweden, although insignificant in the Netherlands. The share of total subsidies in total farm revenues has negative impacts on technical efficiency in all three countries, consistent with income and insurance effects. Positive (negative) change in technical efficiency is mainly attributable to farm size (degree of specialisation) in Germany, and degree of specialisation (degree of subsidy dependence) in the Netherlands and Sweden.
Modafinil Administration Improves Working Memory in Methamphetamine‐Dependent Individuals Who Demonstrate Baseline Impairment
Authors: Kalechstein Ari D. , De La Garza, II Richard , Newton Thomas F.
Published: May 2010

Modafinil improves working memory in healthy subjects and individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, though the effects of modafinil have not been evaluated on working memory in methamphetamine‐dependent subjects. This double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study evaluated whether a daily dose of 400 mg of modafinil, administered over three consecutive days, would enhance performance on a measure of working memory relative to test performance at baseline and following 3 days of placebo administration in 11 methamphetamine addicted, nontreatment‐seeking volunteers. The results revealed that participants demonstrating relatively poor performance on the third day of a 3‐day washout period (ie, at baseline), showed significant improvement on measures of working memory, but not on measures of episodic memory or information processing speed. In contrast, for participants demonstrating relatively high performance at baseline, modafinil administration did not affect test scores. The findings provide an initial indication that modafinil can reverse methamphetamine‐associated impairments in working memory. (Am J Addict 2010;00:1–5)
Gender Differences in the Relationship between Depressive Symptoms and Cravings in Alcoholism
Authors: Boykoff Nelli , Schneekloth Terry D. , Hall‐Flavin Daniel , Loukianova Larissa , Karpyak Victor M. , Stevens Susanna R. , Biernacka Joanna M. , Mrazek David A. , Frye Mark A.
Published: May 2010

This study examines the clinical correlates of alcohol craving in men and women self‐referred for addiction treatment. Admission clinical data from patients participating in the Mayo Clinic 1‐month Intensive Addictions Program were evaluated. Women had higher BDI and PACS scores compared with men in both the entire cohort and Dual Diagnoses group. Alcohol‐dependent females had the most marked correlation between BDI and PACS (ρ= .78). Further prospective study is encouraged to evaluate whether depressive symptoms and concomitant alcohol cravings in women are a marker for relief cravings and, as such, a target symptom for treatment intervention. (Am J Addict 2010;00:1–5)
Why are the continents just so…?
Authors: SANDIFORD M.
Published: May 2010

Variations in gravitational potential energy contribute to the intraplate stress field thereby providing the means by which lithospheric density structure is communicated at the plate scale. In this light, the near equivalence in the gravitational potential energy of typical continental lithosphere with the mid‐ocean ridges is particularly intriguing. Assuming this equivalence is not simply a chance outcome of continental growth, it then probably involves long‐term modulation of the density configuration of the continents via stress regimes that are able to induce significant strains over geological time. Following this notion, this work explores the possibility that the emergence of a chemically, thermally and mechanically structured continental lithosphere reflects a set of thermally sensitive feedback mechanisms in response to Wilson cycle oscillatory forcing about an ambient stress state set by the mid‐ocean ridge system. Such a hypothesis requires the continents are weak enough to sustain long‐term (108 years) strain rates of the order of ∼10−17 s−1 as suggested by observations that continental lithosphere is almost everywhere critically stressed, by estimates of seismogenic strain rates in stable continental interiors such as Australia and by the low‐temperature thermochronological record of the continents that requires significant relief generation on the 108 year time‐scale. Furthermore, this notion provides a mechanism that helps explain interpretations of recently published heat flow data that imply the distribution of heat‐producing elements within the continents may be tuned to produce a characteristic thermal regime at Moho depths.
Dominant Grasses Suppress Local Diversity in Restored Tallgrass Prairie
Authors: McCain Kathryn N. S. , Baer Sara G. , Blair John M. , Wilson Gail W. T.
Published: May 2010

Warm‐season (C4) grasses commonly dominate tallgrass prairie restorations, often at the expense of subordinate grasses and forbs that contribute most to diversity in this ecosystem. To assess whether the cover and abundance of dominant grass species constrain plant diversity, we removed 0, 50, or 100% of tillers of two dominant species (Andropogon gerardiiorPanicum virgatum) in a 7‐year‐old prairie restoration. Removing 100% of the most abundant species,A. gerardii, significantly increased light availability, forb productivity, forb cover, species richness, species evenness, and species diversity. Removal of a less abundant but very common species,P. virgatum, did not significantly affect resource availability or the local plant community. We observed no effect of removal treatments on critical belowground resources, including inorganic soil N or soil moisture. Species richness was inversely correlated with total grass productivity and percent grass cover and positively correlated with light availability at the soil surface. These relationships suggest that differential species richness among removal treatments resulted from treatment induced differences in aboveground resources rather than the belowground resources. Selective removal of the dominant speciesA. gerardiiprovided an opportunity for seeded forb species to become established leading to an increase in species richness and diversity. Therefore, management practices that target reductions in cover or biomass of the dominant species may enhance diversity in established and grass‐dominated mesic grassland restorations.
Using Mounds to Create Microtopography Alters Plant Community Development Early in Restoration
Authors: Biederman Lori A. , Whisenant Steven G.
Published: May 2010

One potential means of promoting diversity in restoration is to use microtopographic features to increase habitat heterogeneity and concentrate resources. In this study, small mounds of sand or topsoil mix were constructed. We hypothesized that these features would improve the establishment and survival of seeded prairie plants. After the first growing season both seeded and total (seeded plus unseeded) plant density/m2 were greater on the mound features than other areas, although, in subsequent years, these differences were erased or reversed. Grass (seeded plus unseeded) density/m2, however, was always larger on the mounded features. Position within the mound also affected plant community development; the base, followed by the top, improved both seeded and total plant density. Mound aspect also interacted with year; the lee and windward sides had similar seeded species richness in the first and third field seasons, but during the second year the lee side had higher seeded species richness and seeded plant density. Grasses (seeded plus unseeded) were also denser on the lee side of the mound in the second year. Finally, the material of the mound created differences in the community response. Sand mounds supported a greater proportion of seeded to total plant density compared with the topsoil mounds. There was also a larger proportion of grasses to total plant density on the sand mounds. This topographic heterogeneity plays an important role in improving the development of both temporal and spatial vegetation variability in grassland restoration.
Dispersal, not Understory Light Competition, Limits Restoration of Iowa Woodland Understory Herbs
Authors: Brudvig Lars A. , Mabry Catherine M. , Mottl Larissa M.
Published: May 2010

Plant community restoration may be limited by the inability of target species to disperse to a restoration site (i.e. dispersal limitation) or by the failure of species to establish once seeds do arrive (i.e. establishment limitation). Seed additions attempt to overcome dispersal limitations; however, seed additions may fail due to establishment limitations resulting from competition with pre‐existing vegetation. We tested whether dispersal and/or competition with the pre‐existing understory limited restoration of 22 native deciduous woodland herbs in Iowa, United States. We employed an experiment that varied seed mix composition to contain either high densities of forbs or graminoids, coupled with clipping of pre‐existing understory vegetation to reduce competition for light during establishment. We found strong support for dispersal limitations, as seed additions increased understory richness by 4–8 species/m2. This was due to the addition of species from the seed mix, not modification to the naturally occurring plant community, which suggests the existence of an open (unsaturated) plant community. Most species in our seed mix established at high rates and there was no effect of seed mix (high vs. low density of graminoid vs. forb seeds) on the richness or persistence of species added by seed. Light competition with the pre‐existing understory vegetation did not limit establishment. We recommend simple seed sowing to restore the majority of species in our study; 19/22 species readily established. Our results support the use of less expensive seed mixes containing high density of gramoids, relative to forbs.
Finding the Signal by Adding Noise: The Role of Noncontrastive Phonetic Variability in Early Word Learning
Authors: Rost Gwyneth C. , McMurray Bob
Published: May 2010

It is well attested that 14‐month‐olds have difficulty learning similar sounding words (e.g., bih/dih), despite their excellent phonetic discrimination abilities. By contrast, Rost and McMurray (2009) recently demonstrated that 14‐month‐olds’ minimal‐pair learning can be improved by the presentation of words by multiple talkers. This study investigates which components of the variability found in multitalker input improved infants’ processing, assessing both the phonologically contrastive aspects of the speech stream and phonologically irrelevant indexical and suprasegmental aspects. In the first two experiments, speaker was held constant while cues to word‐initial voicing were systematically manipulated. Infants failed in both cases. The third experiment introduced variability in speaker, but voicing cues were invariant within each category. Infants in this condition learned the words. We conclude that aspects of the speech signal that have been typically thought of as noise are in fact valuable information—signal—for the young word learner.
A systematic assessment of the quality of reporting for platelet transfusion studies
Authors: Delaney Meghan , Meyer Erin , Cserti‐Gazdewich Christine , Haspel Richard L. , Lin Yulia , Morris Anna , Pavenski Katerina , Dzik Walter H. , Murphy Mike , Slichter Sherrill , Wang Grace , Dumont Larry J. , Heddle Nancy
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND: As evidence‐based medicine assumes increasing importance, there is a need for high‐quality reporting of clinical studies. A recent review of clinical platelet (PLT) studies indicated variability in reporting. We undertook a critical analysis of PLT transfusion studies to determine the quality of reporting.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A systematic MEDLINE search for clinical studies of PLT transfusion was performed to identify articles. Relevant observational studies (OBS) were critiqued using the STROBE checklist and randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) using the CONSORT checklist. Studies were further evaluated with a PLT‐specific checklist developed by the authors. Observations were analyzed descriptively and using Pareto analysis.

RESULTS: A total of 772 articles were identified by the search. Eighty‐six articles (23 RCTs and 63 OBS) met eligibility criteria. All RCTs, and a similar number of OBS (24), were randomly selected for analysis. Studies reported the scientific background and rationale, key results, and outcomes. OBS frequently did not consider bias and confounders. RCTs frequently did not explain bias, interim analyses, stopping rules, success of blinding, or weaknesses of multiple analyses. The PLT‐specific critique found many studies adequately reported basics of the PLT product, PLT increment, and transfusion reactions. Studies frequently failed to report specific details of PLT compatibility, details of product preparation, and use of other blood products.

CONCLUSION: Recently published articles of clinical PLT transfusion share common strengths and weaknesses. The quality of reporting may be improved by providing guidelines to authors and journal editors that list the essential elements of a well‐reported clinical study of PLT transfusion.
Blood transfusions and the subsequent risk of hematologic malignancies
Authors: Chang Cindy M. , Quinlan Scott C. , Warren Joan L. , Engels Eric A.
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND: Blood transfusions are associated with viral transmission and immunomodulation, perhaps increasing subsequent risk of hematologic malignancies (HMs). Prior studies of transfusion recipients have lacked details on specific HM subtypes.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Risk of HM after blood transfusion was evaluated in a US population‐based case‐control study (77,488 elderly HM cases identified through cancer registries, 154,509 controls). Transfusions were identified using linked Medicare hospitalization claims. Polytomous logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) associating transfusion and HM subtypes by features suggestive of a causal relationship.

RESULTS: A history of transfusion was present in 7.9% of HM cases versus 5.9% of controls. Associations for most HM subtypes suggested reverse causality: ORs were elevated only during the shortest latency periods; ORs for unspecified anemia and gastrointestinal bleeding, which may be related to undiagnosed HM, were stronger than for surgeries, which are unlikely to be related to HM; and/or there was no dose response. In contrast, risk for lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (1397 cases) was elevated at long latency (OR, 1.56 at 10+ years after transfusion), after transfusions related to surgeries (OR, 1.22‐1.47), and in a dose‐response relationship with number of transfusion‐related hospitalizations (OR, 1.53 with one hospitalization; OR, 1.80 with two or more hospitalizations, p trend < 0.0001). Risk for marginal zone lymphoma (1915 cases) was also elevated at 10+ years after transfusion (OR, 1.80).

CONCLUSION: Consistent with prior studies, blood transfusions did not increase risk of most HM subtypes. Patterns of elevated risk for lymphoplasmacytic and marginal zone lymphomas suggest an etiologic role for transfusion.
A large number of mature and functional dendritic cells can be efficiently generated from umbilical cord blood–derived mononuclear cells by a simple two‐step culture method
Authors: Balan Sreekumar , Kale Vaijayanti P. , Limaye Lalita S.
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND: Advances in the past two decades in dendritic cell (DC) biology paved the way to exploit them as a promising tool in cancer immunotherapy. The prerequisite for DC vaccine preparations is large‐scale in vitro generations of homogeneous, mature, and functional DCs. Frequent improvements are being made in the existing in vitro DC production protocols to achieve this goal. In our previous study we reported a large‐scale generation of mature, functional DCs from umbilical cord blood (UCB) CD34+ cells. Here we report that this method can be used for the efficient generation of DCs from UCB mononuclear cells (MNCs) and thus the hematopoietic stem cell isolation step is not essential.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: MNCs or CD34+ cells isolated from the same cord blood (CB) samples were used for the generation of DCs. DCs were characterized for morphology, phenotype, and functional assays including antigen uptake, chemotaxis, and mixed leukocyte reaction. Similarly DCs generated from the MNCs of same fresh and frozen CB units were compared.

RESULTS: The morphologic, phenotypic, and functional characterization of the DCs generated from various sets show that they were comparable in nature irrespective of the starting population used.

CONCLUSION: We conclude that the CD34+ isolation step is not essential for the generation of mature, functional DCs and thus can be eliminated. More importantly, we show that DCs can be generated with equal efficiency from the MNCs of frozen CB units. Our culture method will be useful for exploiting the potential of UCB as an additional source for allogeneic DCs in the clinical settings.
Long‐Term Outcome of Atrial Fibrillation Ablation: Impact and Predictors of Very Late Recurrence
Authors: WOKHLU ANITA , HODGE DAVID O. , MONAHAN KRISTI H. , ASIRVATHAM SAMUEL J. , FRIEDMAN PAUL A. , MUNGER THOMAS M. , CHA YONG‐MEI , SHEN WIN‐KUANG , BRADY PETER A. , BLUHM CHRISTINE M. , HAROLDSON JANIS M. , HAMMILL STEPHEN C. , PACKER DOUGLAS L.
Published: May 2010

Long‐Term Outcome of AF Ablation. Introduction: Ablation eliminates atrial fibrillation (AF) in studies with 1 year follow‐up, but very late recurrences may compromise long‐term efficacy. In a large cohort, we sought to describe the determinants of delayed recurrence after AF ablation.

Methods and Results: Seven hundred and seventy‐four patients with AF (428 paroxysmal [PAF, 55%] and 346 persistent or longstanding persistent [PersAF, 45%]) underwent wide area circumferential ablation (WACA, 62%) or pulmonary vein isolation (38%). Over 3.0 ± 1.9 years, there were 135 recurrences in PAF patients and 142 in PersAF patients. AF elimination was achieved in 61% of patients with PersAF at 2 years after last ablation and in 71% of patients with PAF (P = 0.04). This finding was related to a higher initial rate of very late recurrence in PersAF. From 1.0 to 2.5 years, the recurrence increased by 20% (from 37% to 57%) in PersAF patients versus only 12% (from 27% to 39%) in PAF patients. Independent predictors of overall recurrence included diabetes (HR 1.9 [1.3–2.9], P = 0.002) and PersAF (HR 1.6 [1.2–2.0], P < 0.001). Independent predictors of very late recurrence included PersAF (HR 1.7 [1.1–2.7], P = 0.018) and WACA (HR 1.8 [1.1–2.7], P = 0.018), while diabetes came close to significance. In PAF patients, left atrial size >45 mm was identified as an AF‐type specific predictor (HR 2.4 [1.3–4.7], P = 0.009), whereas in PersAF patients, no unique predictors were identified.

Conclusion: Late recurrences reduced the long‐term efficacy of AF ablation, particularly in patients with PersAF and underlying cardiovascular diseases. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1071‐1078)
Predictors of Poor Outcome in Female Patients Undergoing Endovascular Intervention
Authors: ABBAS AMR E. , GOODMAN LAURA M. , TIMMIS RYAN , BOURA JUDITH
Published: May 2010

Background:
 Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is widely accepted as an independent predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The majority of subjects studied in PAD literature have been male, leaving female patients an underrepresented population with regard to revascularization outcomes and prognosis. The purpose of our study was to determine predictors of poor outcomes in female patients undergoing endovascular intervention (EI) for symptomatic PAD.

Methods:
 This study was conducted as a single‐center retrospective chart review of 292 consecutive female patients who underwent EI for symptomatic PAD. Patient variables including baseline demographics, and procedural data were analyzed for statistical significance with regard to repeat EI including target vessel revascularization (TVR), amputation or vascular surgery, and death.

Results:
 On multivariate analysis, increased preintervention creatinine ≥1.5 mg/dL (PRE‐CR) and lower preprocedure hemoglobin were the strongest predictors of subsequent EI and TVR. Significant predictors for amputation or surgery included decreased body mass index (BMI) and increased Rutherford class at presentation. Only age, history of congestive heart failure (CHF), and PRE‐CR remained significant predictors of mortality.

Conclusions:
 Our study is the first of its kind to specify predictors of poor outcomes after EI in female patients with symptomatic PAD. The strongest predictors of subsequent EI and TVR, limb loss, and vascular surgery, as well as death, were found to be chronic kidney disease (CKD; PRE‐CR > 1.5 mg/dL), decreased BMI, Rutherford class, and anemia. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:401–410)
Diferencias de satisfacción con el trabajo en Europa según nivel salarial
Authors: POULIAKAS Konstantinos , THEODOSSIOU Ioannis
Published: May 2010

Los datos de seis olas (1996–2001) del Panel de Hogares de la Unión Europea (PHOGUE) indican que los trabajadores que cobran salarios bajos están mucho menos contentos que los que perciben una remuneración alta en el sur de Europa, si bien no ocurre lo mismo en los países del norte. Los empleos europeos de remuneración modesta no son forzosamente malos, aunque sí lo son en algunos países donde un sector de los trabajadores sufre de lleno el doble infortunio del trabajo mediocre con salario bajo. Las diferencias nacionales obedecen a las características propias de la transacción entre flexibilidad y seguridad, por lo que es esencial impulsar políticas que mejoren la calidad del trabajo.
Costos empresariales y reglamentación del trabajo en Sudáfrica
Authors: BENJAMIN Paul , BHORAT Haroon , CHEADLE Halton
Published: May 2010

Los indicadores de las normas laborales publicados en el estudio del Banco Mundial Doing Business 2007 son ambiguos sobre la naturaleza e intensidad de la reglamentación del trabajo en Sudáfrica. Estos indicadores, al centrarse exclusivamente en la legislación, dan una imagen parcial, por lo que los autores exploran tres posibles elementos para ampliarlos con miras a trazar un panorama más realista de la situación normativa del mundo del trabajo: la «microlegislación», las instituciones la‐borales y la interpretación judicial. Abogan por que se tengan muy presentes estos elementos al valorar el ordenamiento laboral.
La legalización del trabajo eventual realizada en Hungría
Authors: Tésits Róbert , Szenoradszki Endre
Published: May 2010

Hungría promulgó en 1997 la Ley del Trabajo Eventual con el fin de formalizar este régimen de empleo y simplificar los procedimientos administrativos. A su amparo se producían muchos abusos, pese a lo cual esta norma flexible se amplió en 2002 de los empleadores individuales a todas las empresas, elevándose el número de días anuales autorizados, rebajándose drásticamente las cotizaciones a la seguridad social y dando bonificaciones fiscales cuantiosas. El objetivo pasó a ser reducir el desempleo y el trabajo ilegal ampliando las fronteras del empleo «legal» o «regular», pero no se consiguieron buenos resultados. Al contrario, se ha ahondado considerablemente la vulnerabilidad de los trabajadores.
Agricultural trade and poverty in Chile: a spatial analysis of product tradability
Authors: Fleming David A. , Abler David G. , Goetz Stephan J.
Published: May 2010

Many questions have arisen about the relationship between international agricultural trade and poverty in developing countries. This article explores these questions by analyzing local agricultural tradability indices, which measure the degree to which commodities produced in a particular region are traded internationally. Data are examined for Chile, a middle‐income country with a history of international agricultural trade over the last decades. Empirical results indicate that a higher agricultural tradability index is associated with lower poverty rates across Chilean comunas.
Using choice experiments to estimate consumer valuation: the role of experimental design and attribute information loads
Authors: Gao Zhifeng , House Lisa O. , Yu Xiaohua
Published: May 2010

With fixed dimensionality of choice experiments (CEs), previous simulation results show that D‐optimal design with correct a priori information generates more accurate valuation. In the absence of a priori information, random designs and designs incorporate attribute interactions result in more precise valuation estimates. In this article, Monte Carlo simulations demonstrate that the performances of different design strategies are affected by attribute information loads in CEs. Consumer valuation estimates in simulation settings vary with the number of attributes.
10‐Year trends in the treatment and outcomes of patients with first‐episode schizophrenia
Authors: Nielsen J. , Le Quach P. , Emborg C. , Foldager L. , Correll C. U.
Published: May 2010

Nielsen J, le Quach P, Emborg C, Foldager L, Correll CU. 10‐Year trends in the treatment and outcomes of patients with first‐episode schizophrenia.

Objective:  The first episode of schizophrenia is a critical period for illness course and outcomes. We aimed to investigate treatments and outcomes during the first year after the diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Method:  Pharmacoepidemiologic inception cohort study of all newly diagnosed patients with schizophrenia in Denmark (n = 13 600) 1996–2005.

Results:  From 1996 to 2005, the mean age at first diagnosis decreased significantly (29.2–26.1 years), more patients received antipsychotics (67.2–80.7%, annual OR = 1.07, CI: 1.06–1.09, P < 0.001) and antipsychotic polypharmacy for >4 months (16.7–37.1%, OR = 1.14, CI: 1.12–1.57, P < 0.001). The antipsychotic defined daily dosage (DDD) doubled (150–332 DDD, P < 0.001), use of antidepressants (24.3–40.6%, P < 0.001). Bed days [89.9 days (CI: 81.8–98.8) to 71.8 days, CI: 63.7–80.8, P < 0.0001] decreased, whereas outpatient contacts [10.2 (CI: 9.5–11.0) to 21.4 (CI: 19.9–21.0), P < 0.0001] doubled.

Conclusion:  Between 1996 and 2005, there was an earlier recognition of schizophrenia, intensified outpatient treatment, increased use and dosing of antipsychotics and antidepressants, but also more antipsychotic polypharmacy.
Clinical follow‐up of unilateral, fixed dental prosthesis on maxillary implants
Authors: Wahlström Monica , Sagulin Gun‐Britt , Jansson Leif E.
Published: May 2010

Aims/Background: The aims of the present study were to evaluate (1) the success rate of unilateral maxillary fixed dental prosthesis (FDPs) on implants in patients at a periodontal clinic referred for periodontal treatment, (2) the prevalence of varying mechanical and biological complications and (3) effects of potential risk factors on the success rate.

Material and methods: Fifty consecutive patients were invited to participate in a follow‐up. The patients had received FDPs on implants between November 2000 and December 2003 after treatment to achieve optimal peridontal health, and the FDPs had been in function for at least 3 years. A questionnaire was sent to the patients before the follow‐up examination. Forty‐six patients with 116 implants were examined. The follow‐up comprised clinical and radiographic examinations and evaluations of treatment outcome.

Results: Before implant treatment, 13% of the teeth were extracted; of these, 80% were extracted due to periodontal disease. No implants had been lost before implant loading. One implant in one patient fractured after 3 years of functional loading and three implants in another patient after 6.5 years. The most frequent mechanical complications were veneer fractures and loose bridge screws. Patients with peri‐implant mucositis had significantly more bleeding on probing around teeth and implants. Patients with peri‐implantitis at the follow‐up had more deep periodontal pockets around their remaining teeth compared with individuals without peri‐implantitis, but these differences were not significant. Smokers had significantly fewer teeth, more periodontal pockets ≥4 mm and a tendency towards greater marginal bone loss at the follow‐up, compared with non‐smokers.

Conclusion: In the short term, overloading and bruxism seem more hazardous for implant treatment, compared with a history of periodontitis.

To cite this article:
 Wahlström M, Sagulin G‐B, Jansson LE. Clinical follow‐up of unilateral, fixed dental prosthesis on maxillary implants Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 1294–1300. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01948.x
An animal model for sinus floor elevation with great elevation heights. Macroscopic, microscopic, radiological and micro‐CT analysis: ex vivo
Authors: Stelzle Florian , Benner Klaus‐Ulrich
Published: May 2010

Objectives: Different animal models are used for research and training concerning sinus floor elevation. However, there is little information regarding an animal model for elevation heights of approximately 10 mm. The aim of this study was to explore the anatomical aspects of the maxillary sinus of adult pigs and to investigate the suitability of this animal as a model for sinus floor elevation training and research with great elevation heights.

Material and methods: Thirty‐four bisected heads of adult domestic pigs were examined 6 h postmortem. Direct sinus floor elevation was performed with an elevation height of 10 mm. Localization, diameters, volume and septa of the maxillary sinus were recorded on lateral X‐rays and macroscopically. The thickness and structure of the maxillary sinus were investigated microscopically. The osseous microstructure of the lateral sinus wall was assessed microscopically and via micro‐CT.

Results: The maxillary sinus of the adult pig exhibits an average length of 51±6.2 mm, a height of 31±4.1 mm, a width of 19±1.6 mm and a volume of 31±7.6 cm3. At least one septum could be observed on the floor of each sinus. The mucosal thickness amounted to a mean of 1692±138 μm, and the lateral bony wall of the sinus to a mean of 3±0.3 mm. A laceration of the Schneiderian membrane occurred in 25% during the elevation process.

Conclusion: The maxillary sinus of adult domestic pigs is a suitable model for sinus floor elevation training and research with greater elevation heights of up to 10 mm.

To cite this article:
 Stelzle F, Benner K‐U. An animal model for sinus floor elevation with great elevation heights. Macroscopic, microscopic, radiological and micro‐CT analysis: ex vivo. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 1370–1378. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01958.x
Periodontal infection and subclinical atherosclerosis: the role of high‐density lipoprotein as a modifying factor
Authors: Ylöstalo Pekka , Anttila Sirpa , Rajala Ulla , Päivänsalo Markku , Keinänen‐Kiukaanniemi Sirkka , Sakki Tero , Knuuttila Matti
Published: May 2010

Ylöstalo P, Anttila S, Rajala U, Päivänsalo M, Keinänen‐Kiukaanniemi S, Sakki T, Knuuttila M. Periodontal infection and subclinical atherosclerosis: the role of high‐density lipoprotein as a modifying factor. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 617–624. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01572.x.

Background: Periodontitis is suggested to enhance the process of vascular inflammation leading to atherosclerosis. The purpose was to study the relation between periodontal infection and subclinical atherosclerosis, and whether this relation is dependent on high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels.

Methods: A secondary analysis of the data of a diabetic study, confined to 60 dentate subjects who underwent clinical examinations in 1990–1992 and in 1996–1998, was carried out. Ultrasonographic measurements of carotid, aortic and femoral atherosclerosis were performed in 2000.

Results: No consistent association was found between the presence of periodontal pockets and subclinical atherosclerosis in the total population, but a fairly strong association was found among subjects with a low HDL level, whereas in subjects with a high HDL level, an opposing and less consistent association was found. Product terms indicating a possible modification by HDL were statistically significant (at p=0.05 level) for total plaques with all cut‐off values, for plaques in carotid arteries with cut‐off values 1.2–1.4 and for intima‐media thickness with cut‐off values of 1.1–1.2, but not for aorta plaques.

Conclusions: HDL levels or factors closely associated with HDL levels appear to modify the association between periodontal infection and certain parameters of subclinical atherosclerosis.
Interleukin‐1β levels in gingival crevicular fluid and serum under naturally occurring and experimentally induced gingivitis
Authors: Trombelli Leonardo , Scapoli Chiara , Carrieri Alberto , Giovannini Gloria , Calura Giorgio , Farina Roberto
Published: May 2010

Trombelli L, Scapoli C, Carrieri A, Giovannini G, Calura G, Farina R. Interleukin‐1β levels in gingival crevicular fluid and serum under naturally occurring and experimentally induced gingivitis. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 697‐704 doi: 10.1111/j.1600-051X.2010.01573.x.

Aims: To evaluate the interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and serum in either naturally occurring (N‐O) or experimentally induced (E‐I) plaque‐associated gingivitis.

Material and Methods: Thirty‐seven periodontally healthy subjects were evaluated in real life conditions (N‐O gingivitis) as well as after 21 days of experimental gingivitis trial (E‐I gingivitis). During the experimental gingivitis trial, in one maxillary quadrant (test quadrant), gingival inflammation was induced by oral hygiene abstention, while in the contralateral (control) quadrant, oral hygiene was routinely continued. IL‐1β concentrations in N‐O and E‐I gingivitis were investigated for IL‐1B+3954 and IL‐1B−511 gene polymorphisms.

Results: (i) GCF IL‐1β concentrations in E‐I gingivitis were significantly higher compared with N‐O gingivitis; (ii) an intra‐individual correlation between GCF concentrations of IL‐1β detected in N‐O and E‐I gingivitis was observed in control quadrants, but not in test quadrants; (iii) IL‐1β concentration in GCF was associated with IL‐1B+3954 genotype only at test quadrants; (iv) IL‐1β was detectable in serum only at low levels in a limited number of subjects, without difference between gingivitis conditions.

Conclusions: Aspects of the bacterial challenge to the gingival tissues, such as the amount of plaque deposits and plaque accumulation rate, appear to affect the IL‐1β levels in GCF in subjects with a specific IL‐1B genotype.
Alveolar ridge augmentation using implants coated with recombinant human growth/differentiation factor‐5: histologic observations
Authors: Polimeni Giuseppe , Wikesjö Ulf M. E. , Susin Cristiano , Qahash Mohammed , Shanaman Richard H. , Prasad Hari S. , Rohrer Michael D. , Hall Jan
Published: May 2010

Polimeni G, Wikesjö UME, Susin C, Qahash M, Shanaman RH, Prasad HS, Rohrer MD, Hall J. Alveolar ridge augmentation using implants coated with recombinant human growth/differentiation factor‐5: histologic observations. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 759‐768 doi: 10.1111/j.1600-051X.2010.01579.x.

Objectives: In vitro and in vivo preclinical studies suggest that growth/differentiation factor‐5 (GDF‐5) may induce local bone formation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of recombinant human GDF‐5 (rhGDF‐5) coated onto an oral implant with a purpose‐designed titanium porous oxide surface to stimulate local bone formation including osseointegration and vertical augmentation of the alveolar ridge.

Materials and Methods: Bilateral, critical‐size, 5 mm, supraalveolar peri‐implant defects were created in 12 young adult Hound Labrador mongrel dogs. Six animals received implants coated with 30 or 60 μg rhGDF‐5, and six animals received implants coated with 120 μg rhGDF‐5 or left uncoated (control). Treatments were alternated between jaw quadrants. The mucoperiosteal flaps were advanced, adapted, and sutured to submerge the implants for primary intention healing. The animals received fluorescent bone markers at weeks 3, 4, 7, and 8 post‐surgery when they were euthanized for histologic evaluation.

Results: The clinical examination showed no noteworthy differences between implants coated with rhGDF‐5. The cover screw and implant body were visible/palpable through the alveolar mucosa for both rhGDF‐5‐coated and control implants. There was a small increase in induced bone height for implants coated with rhGDF‐5 compared with the control, induced bone height averaging (±SD) 1.6±0.6 mm for implants coated with 120 μg rhGDF‐5 versus 1.2±0.5, 1.2±0.6, and 0.6±0.2 mm for implants coated with 60 μg rhGDF‐5, 30 μg rhGDF‐5, or left uncoated, respectively (p<0.05). Bone formation was predominant at the lingual aspect of the implants. Narrow yellow and orange fluorescent markers throughout the newly formed bone indicate relatively slow new bone formation within 3–4 weeks. Implants coated with rhGDF‐5 displayed limited peri‐implant bone remodelling in the resident bone; the 120 μg dose exhibiting more advanced remodelling than the 60 and 30 μg doses. All treatment groups exhibited clinically relevant osseointegration.

Conclusions: rhGDF‐5‐coated oral implants display a dose‐dependent osteoinductive and/or osteoconductive effect, bone formation apparently benefiting from local factors. Application of rhGDF‐5 appears to be safe as it is associated with limited, if any, adverse effects.
Detection of free immunoglobulin light chains in cerebrospinal fluids of patients with central nervous system lymphomas
Authors: Schroers Roland , Baraniskin Alexander , Heute Christoph , Kuhnhenn Jan , Alekseyev Andriy , Schmiegel Wolff , Schlegel Uwe , Pels Hendrik‐Johannes
Published: May 2010

Diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma depends on histopathology of brain biopsies, because no reliable disease marker in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been identified yet. B‐cell lymphomas such as CNS lymphomas are clonally restricted and express either kappa or lambda immunoglobulin light chains. The aim of this study was to find out a potential diagnostic value of free immunoglobulin light chains released into the CSF of CNS lymphoma patients. Kappa (κ) and lambda (λ) free immunoglobulin light chains (FLC) were measured in CSF and serum samples collected from 21 patients with primary and secondary CNS lymphomas and 14 control patients with different neurologic disorders. FLC concentrations and ratios were compared between patient groups and were further analyzed in correlation with clinical, cytopathological, and radiological findings. FLC concentrations for all patients were lower in CSF when compared to serum. In patients with CNS lymphoma, the FLC ratios in CSF were higher (range 392–0.3) compared to control patients (range 3.0–0.3). Irrespective of cytopathological proven lymphomatous meningitis, in 11/21 lymphoma CSF samples the FLC ratios were markedly above 3.0 indicating a clonally restricted B‐cell population. Increased FLC ratios in CSF were found in those patients showing subependymal lymphoma contact as detected in magnetic resonance imaging. In summary, this is the first report demonstrating that a significant proportion of patients with CNS lymphomas display a markedly increased FLC ratio in the CSF.
PGE2 is a UVR‐inducible autocrine factor for human melanocytes that stimulates tyrosinase activation
Authors: Starner Renny J. , McClelland Lindy , Abdel‐Malek Zalfa , Fricke Alex , Scott Glynis
Published: May 2010

Please cite this paper as: PGE2 is a UVR‐inducible autocrine factor for human melanocytes that stimulates tyrosinase activation. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: 682–684.

Abstract:  Prostaglandins activate signalling pathways involved in growth, differentiation and apoptosis. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is released by keratinocytes following ultraviolet irradiation (UVR) and stimulates the formation of dendrites in melanocytes. We show that multiple irradiations of human melanocytes with UVR‐activated cPLA2, the rate‐limiting enzyme in eicosanoid synthesis and stimulated PGE2 secretion. PGE2 increased cAMP production, tyrosinase activity and proliferation in melanocytes. PGE2 binds to four distinct G‐protein coupled receptors (EP1–4). We show that PGE2 stimulates EP4 receptor signalling in melanocytes, resulting in cAMP production. Conversely, PGE2 also stimulated the EP3 receptor in melanocytes, resulting in lowered basal cAMP levels. These data suggest that relative levels or activity of these receptors controls effects of PGE2 on cAMP in melanocytes. The data are the first to identify PGE2 as an UVR‐inducible autocrine factor for melanocytes. These data also show that PGE2 activates EP3 and EP4 receptor signalling, resulting in opposing effects on cAMP production, a critical signalling pathway that regulates proliferation and melanogenesis in melanocytes.
IgA autoantibodies in the pemphigoids and linear IgA bullous dermatosis
Authors: Horváth Barbara , Niedermeier Andrea , Podstawa Eva , Müller Ralf , Hunzelmann Nicolas , Kárpáti Sarolta , Hertl Michael
Published: May 2010

Please cite this paper as: IgA autoantibodies in the pemphigoids and linear IgA bullous dermatosis. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: 648–653.

Background:  Patients with bullous pemphigoid (BP), mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) and pemphigoid gestationis (PG) have IgG antibodies against BP180 and BP230, components of the hemidesmosomes. Patients with linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) have IgA autoantibodies against a 97/120‐kDa protein which is highly homologous to a shedded fragment of the BP180‐ectodomain.

Objectives:  The aim of our study was to determine the incidence of IgA autoantibodies directed against BP180/BP230 in the pemphigoids and LABD and to determine the antigenic regions that are targeted by IgA autoantibodies.

Methods:  Utilizing baculovirus‐expressed recombinant BP180 and BP230 proteins, we performed immunoblot analyses for IgA reactivity of sera from patients with BP (n = 30), MMP (n = 10), PG (n = 6), LABD (n = 6) and from control patients with non‐related pruritic dermatoses (n = 8).

Results:  IgA reactivity against BP180 and/or BP230 was detected in 19/30 of the BP, in 7/10 of the MMP, in 6/6 of the LABD and in 3/6 of the PG sera, respectively, but not in the control group. In all subgroups, the major antigenic site recognized by IgA antibodies was located within the NH2‐terminus of the BP180‐ectodomain, but only a minority of the sera showed also IgA reactivity against the BP180‐NC16a‐domain. IgA reactivity against the central domain of BP180 was more frequently seen than against its COOH‐terminus. IgA against the COOH‐ and NH2‐terminus of BP230, respectively, was detected in 6/30 of the BP, 1/10 of the MMP, 1/6 of the LABD and 0/8 control sera.

Conclusion:  IgA reactivity against BP180 and/or BP230 is a common finding in the pemphigoids.